Facility Data and Power Networks

Abstract

A data communications network within or on a building facilitates wired and wireless connectivity. The network may include wiring that carries power and two types of communication signals. The network may facilitate control of multiple devices within an enclosure (e.g., facility), such as sensors, emitters, and / or tintable windows. The present disclosure includes network power management.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Priority Application This application claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 146,365, filed on 5 February 2021; No. 63 / 027,452, filed on 20 May 2020; No. 62 / 978,755, filed on 19 February 2020; and No. 62 / 977,001, filed on 14 February 2020. This application is a continuation-in-part application of International Application PCT / US20 / 32269, filed on 9 May 2020, claiming priority to (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 850,993, filed on 21 May 2019, and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,764, filed on 9 May 2019. This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 709,339, filed on 19 September 2017. This application is also a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 099,424, filed on 6 November 2018, which is the national phase entry procedure of International Application PCT / US17 / 31106, filed on 4 May 2017, claiming the interests of (i) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 379,163, filed on 24 August 2016, (ii) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 352,508, filed on 20 June 2016, (iii) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 340,936, filed on 24 May 2016, and (iv) Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 333,103, filed on 6 May 2016. This application is a national phase entry of international application PCT / US15 / 62387 filed on November 24, 2015, claiming the benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 084,502 filed on November 25, 2014; a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 529,677 filed on May 25, 2017, which was issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,673,121 on June 2, 2020; a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 849,540 filed on April 15, 2020; and a continuation in part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 949,978 filed on November 23, 2020.This application is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 268,204, filed on September 16, 2016 and issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,253,558 on April 9, 2019, claiming the benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 220,514, filed on September 18, 2015, a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 295,142, filed on March 7, 2019 and issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,704,322 on July 7, 2020, and a continuation in part of U.S. Patent No. 16 / 946,140, ​​filed on June 8, 2020. This application is a continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 268,204, filed on September 16, 2016, and issued on April 9, 2019, U.S. Patent Application No. 10,253,558, claiming the benefits of U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 62 / 220,514, filed on September 18, 2015, and U.S. Patent Application No. 10,253,558, filed on November 30, 2016, and issued on July 30, 2019, U.S. Patent Application No. 10,365 This is a continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 365,685, issued as No. 532; a continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 439,376, filed on 12 June 2019 and issued on 8 December 2020 as U.S. Patent No. 10,859,887; and a continuation in part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 949,800, filed on 13 November 2020.This application is also a continuation application of (A) U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 739,562 filed on 22 December 2017, a continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 910,931 filed on 2 March 2018, a continuation application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 297,461 filed on 8 March 2019 and issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,908,471 on 2 February 2021, and (B) National phase entry of International Application PCT / US16 / 41176 filed on 6 July 2016, claiming the interests of (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 191,975 filed on 13 July 2015, and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 190,012 filed on 8 July 2015, and (C) United States Patent No. 16 / 380,929 is also a national phase entry of international application PCT / US15 / 38667 filed on June 30, 2015, claiming the interests of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 019,325 filed on June 30, 2014; a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 320,725 filed on December 20, 2016, issued on November 19, 2019 as U.S. Patent No. 10,481,459; a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 380,929 filed on April 10, 2019; and a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 168,721 filed on February 5, 2021, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] As high data-rate wired and wireless connectivity becomes not only expected but sometimes necessary, facilities (e.g., buildings) can not only enable the transmission of wireless signals but also facilitate such transmission and / or facilitate robust wired networks. This will be particularly true as wireless connectivity moves to higher frequency carrier bands (e.g., in the case of fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks) and / or as the connectivity of the physical infrastructure of facilities (e.g., buildings) to the network increases.

[0003] Implementing a cable network that individually addresses multiple centrally controlled targets (e.g., devices or components) can become complex and costly as the number of communicably coupled targets increases. Targets can be of different types (e.g., sensors, antennas, output devices, and / or colorable windows, including optically switchable devices). The complexity of the cable network can increase further if the network is required to facilitate the streaming of multiple functions (e.g., voice, images, data, and / or current) to these targets. When targets (e.g., third-party devices) are coupled to the network, the network may collapse or otherwise fail (e.g., due to excessive (e.g., electrical) power consumption). When cable systems are long-distance and / or include multiple junctions (e.g., nodes), signals transmitted through this network tend to attenuate, resulting in a large amount of noise that can become undecipherable (e.g., degraded as it propagates along the network). Some signals (e.g., 5G signals) that can only penetrate (or cannot penetrate) a minimally invasive enclosure (e.g., a building or other facility) may need to be transmitted from the external environment to the enclosure via a cable network. The scope and / or complexity of a cable network can increase as the number, distance, and / or quantity of (e.g., parallel) cable lines, targets, data, communications, and / or power distributions increase. In some embodiments, power distribution includes the distribution of any of the power components, e.g., the distribution of current. Therefore, networks with conventional cabling types and topologies may be costly and / or unsuitable for such high-density applications. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0004] Various embodiments disclosed herein mitigate at least some of the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0005] This disclosure provides systems, devices, and / or non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., software) that facilitate wired and / or wireless connectivity within an enclosure.

[0006] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the coaxial cable is controlled to transmit multiple stream types limited to different (e.g., distinguishable) frequency windows. For example, a single stream type may be limited to one or more (e.g., distinguishable) frequency windows. Power to targets may be controlled (e.g., managed and / or limited). Targets may be identified, and optionally, their identification information may be verified (e.g., via a blockchain) before being fully connected to a communication network including the cabling. Nodes communicatively coupled to the cable architecture of the network and / or network cabling may be designed to maintain and / or amplify the intensity of signals transmitted through the network. The cable network may facilitate the transmission of signals from the external environment to the enclosure and to the internal enclosure environment, and vice versa, for example, by using external and internal antennas. The system may include DC (hereinafter abbreviated as "DC") distributors, repeaters, range extenders, and / or signal transponders. An example of a blockchain use, identification, security, and control system can be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 858,634, “SECURE BUILDING SERVICES NETWORK,” filed on 7 June 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0007] In another embodiment, a system for power and communication transmission within a facility, the system comprising: (a) a cabling system having cables configured to transmit electric current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device of the facility, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, wherein the cabling system is configured to be operably coupled to at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second type of communication outside the facility and to transmit signals of the second type of communication from outside the facility, wherein the first antenna is operably coupled to the cabling system; (c) a second antenna configured to (i) receive signals of the second type of communication inside the facility and (ii) to transmit signals of the second type of communication inside the facility, wherein the second antenna is operably coupled to the cabling system; and (d) at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to control at least one device using the first type of communication.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cable is configured to transmit current, a first communication type, and a second communication type simultaneously. In some embodiments, the first and second communication types do not have overlapping signal frequencies. In some embodiments, the first communication type is within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the first communication type includes multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the second communication type is within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to one or more signal frequency filters. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to one or more signal amplifiers and / or repeaters. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes fourth-generation (4G) and / or fifth-generation (5G) cellular communication. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes analog radio frequency signals. In some embodiments, the first antenna is a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the second antenna is part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the second antenna is located on one of several edge distribution frame devices arranged within the facility. In some embodiments, the current is direct current. In some embodiments, the current directed to at least one device is direct current up to approximately 48 volts. In some embodiments, the cabling system's cables are coaxial cables. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes optical cables. In some embodiments, the facility includes floors, and the cabling system includes optical cables transmitting a first type of communication and / or a second type of communication between floors. In some embodiments, the facility includes several control panels, and the cabling system includes optical cables transmitting a first type of communication and / or a second type of communication between the several control panels. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes power unevenly. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes the first type of communication and / or a second type of communication unevenly.In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction comprises an active element. In some embodiments, the active element is a controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate a first type of communication. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to be operably coupled to a building management system. In some embodiments, the first type of communication is generated and / or utilized by at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one device comprises a sensor, a radiator, an antenna, a colorable window, lighting, a security system, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC). In some embodiments, the sensor is motion-sensitive. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the radiator comprises a light emitter or a sound emitter. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is sensitive to at least one environmental characteristic, including humidity, carbon dioxide, temperature, sound, electromagnetics, volatile organic compounds, or pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a gas sensor sensitive to gas type, motion, and / or pressure. In some embodiments, the device is part of a device ensemble comprising one or more devices housed in a housing. In some embodiments, one or more devices comprises at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, one or more devices comprises at least two devices of different types. In some embodiments, the facility is a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the cabling system provides services to at least a portion of the multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper.

[0009] In another embodiment, a method for transmitting power and communications within a facility, the method comprising performing at least one operation using one of the systems disclosed above.

[0010] In another embodiment, a device for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the device comprising at least one controller operably coupled to a system and configured to perform or instruct the performance of at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0011] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product includes written instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause one or more processors to perform at least one operation using one of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the system. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by the same processor among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by different processors among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0012] In another embodiment, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller being configured to control at least one device by: (a) a cabling system having cables configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, wherein the cabling system is coupled to a cabling system configured to operably couple to at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive signals of a second type of communication from outside the facility and to transmit signals of a second type of communication from outside the facility; (c) a second antenna configured to receive signals of a second type of communication from inside the facility and to transmit signals of a second type of communication inside the facility; (d) operably couple to at least one device of the facility by directing the second type of communication from the first antenna to the second antenna and from the second antenna to the first antenna; and (e) controlling at least one device of the facility by using or directing the use of the first type of communication. In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (e) are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (e) are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0013] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product having instructions, which, when read by at least one processor, cause at least one processor to perform operations including (a) transmitting or instructing the transmission of electric current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication via a cable which is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled; (b) directing the signals of the second type of communication received by a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second type of communication outside the facility and transmit signals of the second type of communication from outside the facility to a second antenna, and directing the signals of the second type of communication received by a second antenna configured to receive signals of the second type of communication inside the facility and transmit signals of the second type of communication inside the facility to a first antenna; and (c) controlling or instructing the control of at least one device by using the first type of communication.

[0014] In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the cabling system. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same processor among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different processors among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0015] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (a) transmitting (i) an electric current, (ii) a first type of communication used to control at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication configured for media communication via a cable, the cable being part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled; (b) directing the second type of communication received by a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second type of communication outside the facility and transmit signals of the second type of communication from outside the facility to a second antenna, and directing the second type of communication received by a second antenna configured to receive signals of the second type of communication inside the facility and transmit signals of the second type of communication inside the facility to a first antenna; and (c) controlling at least one device by using the first type of communication.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further includes simultaneously transmitting current, a first communication type, and a second communication type over a cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a first communication type and a second communication type such that the first communication type has no overlapping signal frequencies with the second communication type. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a first communication type within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a first communication type within multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a second communication type within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a second communication type within multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further includes operably coupling the cabling system to one or more signal frequency filters. In some embodiments, the method further includes operably coupling the cabling system to one or more signal amplifiers and / or repeaters. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a second communication type as fourth-generation (4G) and / or fifth-generation (5G) cellular communication. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a second communication type as an analog radio frequency signal. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a first antenna as a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a second antenna as part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the method further includes locating the second antenna on one of a plurality of edge distribution frame devices arranged within a facility. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using an electric current as direct current. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using an electric current as direct current of up to approximately 48 volts.In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using coaxial cables for the cabling system. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes optical cables. In some embodiments, the facility comprises floors. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes optical cables configured to transmit (i) a first type of communication and / or (ii) a second type of communication between floors. In some embodiments, the facility comprises a plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes optical cables configured to transmit (i) a first type of communication and / or (ii) a second type of communication between a plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction as part of the cabling system. In some embodiments, the method further includes a distribution junction that distributes power unevenly. In some embodiments, the method further includes a distribution junction that distributes the first type of communication and / or the second type of communication unevenly. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction as a passive element. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction as an active element. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using an active element as a controller. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to a building management system. In some embodiments, the method further includes generating and / or utilizing a first type of communication by at least one device. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device including a sensor, a radiator, an antenna, a colorable window, lighting, a security system, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, or any combination or a plurality thereof.In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to sense motion. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the radiator comprises a light emitter or sound emitter. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light sensor. In some embodiments, the method further comprises the sensor being configured to sense at least one environmental characteristic, including humidity, carbon dioxide, temperature, sound, electromagnetic, volatile organic compounds, or pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises a gas sensor sensitive to gas type, motion, and / or pressure. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring a device to be part of a device ensemble comprising one or more devices housed in a housing. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of different types. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring a facility to be a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring a cabling system to serve at least a portion of a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a cabling system as a trunk cable and / or using the same. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a distribution junction configured to operably connect a trunk cable to branch cables and / or using the same.

[0017] In another embodiment, a device for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller configured to (i) be operably coupled to a cabling system, the cabling system comprising a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; branch cables configured to transmit current, and (i) the first type of communication, and / or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch cables configured to be coupled to at least one device; and comprising a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector. A distribution junction comprising: (a) coupled along a trunk cable by a first connector and a second connector; (b) coupled to a branch line by a third connector; (c) directing current along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector; (d) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector; (e) directing current from the trunk cable to a branch cable; (f) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to a branch cable; (g) operably coupled to at least one device; and (h) controlling at least one device by using or directing the use of a first communication type.

[0018] In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct power requests (e.g., current requests) from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct power requirements (e.g., current requirements) from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to direct current along a trunk cable to at least one device, and the current is transmitted through a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the transmission of current through the distribution junction occurs without controlling at least one controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured not to be controlled by a first controller configured to control (i) current, (ii) a first communication type, (iii) a second communication type, or (iv) any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is controlled by a second controller different from the first controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is not controlled by a controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction comprises a controller that controls (i) current, (ii) a first type of communication, and / or (iii) a second type of communication transmitted through the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is active. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to control a current directed in accordance with power requirements (e.g., current requirements) received from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to formulate or direct the formulation of a time schedule for the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of the time required for a given process to occur in a device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of when the operation of at least one device is required.In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of (i) an operating mode, (ii) a scheme of at least one device, or (iii) any combination or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the determination is at least partially based on the operation of at least one other device operably coupled to the network. In some embodiments, the operating modes include continuous operation and / or intermittent operation. In some embodiments, at least one device includes a first device having a first operating mode and a second device having a second operating mode, and at least one controller is configured to combine or direct the combination of the first and second operating modes. In some embodiments, at least one device includes a first device configured to issue a first request and a second device configured to issue a second request, and at least one controller is configured to combine or direct the combination of the first and second requests. In some embodiments, at least one device is a third-party device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to manage or direct the management of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to operate or direct the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to identify or direct the identification of (i) one channel of a plurality of channels and / or (ii) a device of at least one device in an operable manner. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct the power budget of at least one device and / or channel according to logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes business logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes spatial designation.In some embodiments, space designation includes prioritizing spaces within a facility. In some embodiments, space designation includes one type of space. In some embodiments, space designation includes spaces having at least one characteristic, including height, width, length, floor area, volume, temperature, humidity level, pollutant level, radon level, particle level, carbon dioxide level, volatile organic compound (VOC) level, pollen level, living space, commercial space, office space, space containing one or more small rooms, dining space, living space, bedroom space, garage, factory, basement, storage area, restroom, closet, entrance hall, corridor, windowless space, space with one or more windows, space with exterior walls, space with only interior walls, insulated space, uninsulated space, soundproof space, unsoundproof space, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, space designation includes occupancy levels. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of occupancy levels using at least one occupancy sensor. In some embodiments, the at least one occupancy sensor comprises a geolocation sensor, an infrared sensor, or a visible sensor. In some embodiments, the geolocation sensor is configured to detect electromagnetic radiation, including ultra-wideband (UWB) radio waves, ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves used in the Global Positioning System (GPS). In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or instruct the determination of the occupancy level, at least in part, based on dead reckoning. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes an occupancy zone. In some embodiments, the logic includes a schedule or one or more external conditions outside the facility.In some embodiments, the logic includes (i) device specifications, (ii) device power requirements, (iii) device power requirements for at least one device, (iv) power requests from at least one device, (v) predicted power usage by at least one device, (vi) machine learning (ML), (vii) one or more scheduling constraints, (vii) historical data, (viii) product management, or (ix) one or more rational inferences. In some embodiments, the device power requirements specify one or more specifications including (i) amount of power, (ii) power delivery time, or (iii) power delivery duration. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to use or instruct the use of power budget prioritization to generate a distribution scheme for that channel among multiple channels and / or that device among at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to distribute or instruct power (e.g., current) to that channel among multiple channels and / or that device among at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one device comprises multiple devices, and at least one controller is configured to define or direct the definition of a priority list of devices for power usage among the multiple devices. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct the monitoring of power distribution to the multiple devices, and the multiple devices are connected to a network. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct power (e.g., current) budget requests from one or more of the multiple devices.In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to consider or instruct the consideration of (i) a power budget request, (ii) a power budget request and any other power budget request, (iii) the power distribution status in the network, (iv) a forecast of power distribution in the network at some point in the future, (v) the power usage history of any of the multiple devices in the network, (vi) the power usage trends of any of the multiple devices, or (vii) any combination or multiple thereof. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate or instruct the generation of results regarding the power distribution of one of the multiple devices that have received a power budget request. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to intermittently supply power to or instruct the supply of power to the device that has received a power budget request. In some embodiments, the intermittent supply includes regular (e.g., repeating) intervals. In some embodiments, the intermittent supply includes irregular (e.g., non-repeating) intervals. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to delay or instruct the continuous supply of power (e.g., current) to one of a plurality of devices from which at least one controller has received a power budget request. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to disconnect or instruct the disconnection of one of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that a device is consuming power above a threshold. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to terminate or instruct the termination of a second type of communication to one of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power above a threshold.In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to remove or instruct the removal of at least a portion of power from one of several devices in response to detecting that the device is using power exceeding a threshold. In some embodiments, the priority list is at least partially based on business logic. In some embodiments, the power budget request is for a modified power budget. In some embodiments, power usage trends are determined at least partially based on machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is operably coupled to a network in which one or more colorable windows are operably coupled. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate or instruct the generation of a model using one or more operating modes of the colorable windows. In some embodiments, one or more operating modes include transitions between one or more colorable windows. In some embodiments, one or more operating modes include artificial intelligence or machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to collect or instruct the collection of information to generate a training set. In some embodiments, the collected information includes measurement history. In some embodiments, the measurement history is of a facility. Yes. In some embodiments, measurement history, of another facility. In some embodiments, the collected information includes synthetic measurements. In some embodiments, the collected information is obtained from the software and / or hardware of the local controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to use or instruct the use of a training set to predict the power usage of at least one device at some point in the future. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to deliver or instruct the delivery of power to at least one device, at least in part, based on the prediction of the power (e.g., current) usage of at least one device at some point in the future. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (h) are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (h) are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0019] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising performing at least one operation using the operation of any of the at least one controllers disclosed above.

[0020] In another aspect, a non - transient computer - readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non - transient computer - readable program product includes written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the operations of any of the at least one controller disclosed above. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operably coupled to a backbone cable. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same processor among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different processors among the one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non - transient computer - readable program product comprises a non - transient computer - readable medium. In some embodiments, the non - transient computer - readable program product comprises a non - transient computer - readable medium.

[0021] In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system comprising any of the structural components of the structures (e.g., devices) disclosed above.

[0022] In another embodiment, a system for power transmission and communication transmission, comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; branch cables configured to transmit current, and (i) the first type of communication and / or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch cables configured to connect to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection. The junction comprises a distribution junction configured to (a) connect along the main cable by a first connection and a second connection, (b) connect to a branch line by a third connection, (c) direct current along the main cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the main cable from the first connection to the second connection, (e) direct current from the main cable to the branch cable, and (f) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable.

[0023] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product having instructions, which, when read by at least one processor, transmit to at least one processor (A) current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; a cabling system, the cables being part of the cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and a branch cable configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication, and / or (ii) a second type of communication, the branch cable being connected to at least one device A cabling system comprising: a branch cable configured to be coupled to a branch cable; and a distribution junction having a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector, the junction configured to (a) be coupled along the trunk cable by the first and second connectors, (b) be coupled to the branch cable by the third connector, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (f) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable, thereby enabling the operation to include (B) transmitting or directing such transmission, and (A) controlling or directing the control of at least one device by using a first communication type.

[0024] In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to a backbone cable. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same processor of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0025] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising (A) current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, in a cabling system, the cable being part of the cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; and branch cables configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication, and / or (ii) a second type of communication, the branch cables being configured to be coupled to at least one device, A distribution junction having a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector, wherein the junction is configured to (a) connect along a trunk cable by the first connector and the second connector, (b) connect to a branch line by the third connector, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to a branch line cable, and (f) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to a branch line cable, and (B) control at least one device by using a first communication type.

[0026] In another embodiment, a system for power transmission and communication transmission, comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling devices of a facility, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit current, and (i) the first type of communication and / or (ii) the second type of communication, wherein the plurality of branch cables are configured to be coupled to devices; and at least a controller configured to control the distribution of current and / or the activation of devices by taking into account the current transmitted in the system.

[0027] In another embodiment, a device for controlling a device in a facility, the device comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller operably coupled to a cabling system including (A) a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling a device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit current, and (i) the first type of communication and / or (ii) the second type of communication, the plurality of branch cables being configured to couple to a device, (B) operably coupled to a device, and (C) configured to control the distribution of current and / or the activation of a device by taking into account the current transmitted in the system.

[0028] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) to (C) are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) to (C) are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0029] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling a device in a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product having instructions, which, when read by at least one processor, cause at least one processor to perform operations including (A) transmitting or instructing the transmission of current, a first type of communication used for controlling a device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication via a cabling system, the cabling system comprising trunk cables configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling a device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication and / or (ii) a second type of communication, with branch lines configured to connect to a device; and (B) controlling or instructing the distribution of current and / or the activation of a device by taking into account the current transmitted within the system.

[0030] In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to a cabling system. In some embodiments, operations (A) and (B) are performed by the same processor among one or more processors. In some embodiments, operations are performed by different processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, operation (A) is performed by a processor different from the processor that performs operation (B), and the processor and the different processor are processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0031] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising (A) transmitting current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication via a cabling system, the cabling system comprising: trunk cables configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication, and / or (ii) a second type of communication, the branch lines configured to connect to the device; and (B) controlling the distribution of current and / or the activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted in the system.

[0032] In another embodiment, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; branch cables configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first type of communication, and / or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch cables configured to connect to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction being ( (a) connected along a trunk cable by a first connector and a second connector; (b) connected to a branch line by a third connector; (c) directing current along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector; (d) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector; (e) directing current from the trunk cable to the branch line cable; (f) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch line cable; and (g) configured to operably connect to at least one device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to facilitate bidirectional communication. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct current along the trunk cable from a second connection to a first connection. In some embodiments, directing current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type is passive. In some embodiments, directing current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type is (i) active, (ii) dynamic, or (iii) active and dynamic. In some embodiments, directing current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is disposed in the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from a second connection to a first connection. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from a branch cable to a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to connect to at least one device via the trunk.

[0034] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) a trunk cable configured to transmit (I) current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; (II) a branch cable configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) a first type of communication, and / or (iii) a second type of communication, the branch cable being configured to connect to at least one device; and (I) a distribution junction having a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector, the distribution junction being (a) connected along the trunk cable by the first connector and the second connector. (b) using a cabling system including a distribution junction configured to operably couple to at least one device, (b) coupling to a branch line by a third connection, (c) directing current along the trunk cable from a first connection to a second connection, (d) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from a first connection to a second connection, (e) directing current from the trunk cable to a branch cable, (f) directing a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to a branch cable, and (g) controlling at least one device at least partially by using a first communication type.

[0035] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to facilitate bidirectional communication. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct current from a second connection to a first connection along a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along a trunk cable from a second connection to a first connection. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from a branch cable to a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to connect to at least one device via a trunk. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to passively direct current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to actively and / or dynamically direct current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type. In some embodiments, directing current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type by a distribution junction is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is disposed at the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a microcontroller.

[0036] In another embodiment, a device for controlling at least one device of a facility, the device comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit (A) current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; branch cables configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first type of communication, and / or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch cables configured to connect to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector, the distribution junction being (a) connected along the trunk cable by the first and second connectors, (b) connected to the branch cable by the third connector, and (c) connected along the trunk cable (d) directs current from a connection to a second connection along a trunk cable from a first connection to a second connection, (e) directs current from a trunk cable to a branch cable, (f) directs current from a trunk cable to a branch cable, and (g) directs current from a trunk cable to a branch cable, and comprises at least one controller configured to operably couple to at least one device, (B) use or direct the use of the cabling system, and (C) control or direct the control of at least one device at least partially by using the first type of communication.

[0037] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) to (C) are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) to (C) are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0038] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product includes written instructions which, when executed by one or more processors operably coupled to the facility's cabling system, cause one or more processors to perform an operation, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for controlling at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first type of communication, and / or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch cable configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection. The distribution junction is configured to (a) connect along a trunk cable by a first connector and a second connector, (b) connect to a branch line by a third connector, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connector to the second connector, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch line cable, (f) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch line cable, and (g) operably connect to at least one device, the operation of which includes (A) using or directing the use of a cabling system, and (B) at least partially controlling or directing the control of at least one device by using a first communication type.

[0039] In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the cabling system. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by the same processor among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by different processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0040] In another embodiment, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (a) directing the transmission of current from a trunk cable to a device via a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable via a distribution junction configured to direct current from a trunk cable to a branch cable; (b) monitoring the power (e.g., current) consumption of the device in the trunk cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable; and (c) controlling the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

[0041] In some embodiments, the facility includes a building. In some embodiments, the facility is a commercial facility. In some embodiments, the facility is a residential facility. In some embodiments, the residential facility includes a single-family dwelling. In some embodiments, the residential facility includes a multi-family dwelling. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct communications from a trunk cable to branch cables. In some embodiments, the communications include a first communications type and a second communications type. In some embodiments, the first communications type utilizes a different wavelength than that used by the second communications type. In some embodiments, the communications include media communications. In some embodiments, the communications include cellular communications. In some embodiments, the cellular communications conform to at least (i) fourth-generation, (ii) fifth-generation, or (iii) fourth-generation and fifth-generation cellular communications protocols. In some embodiments, the communications include data transfer. In some embodiments, the communications adhere to a control protocol. In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling communications from the trunk cable to a device in response to monitoring. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device as a sensor, a radiator, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device as an antenna.

[0042] In another embodiment, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller operably coupled to a cabling system and configured to perform or instruct any of the operations disclosed above. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0043] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product includes written instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors operably coupled to a cabling system, cause one or more processors to perform any operation in the manner disclosed above. In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the cabling system. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by the same processor among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by different processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0044] In another embodiment, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system comprising any structural component of the structures (e.g., devices) disclosed above.

[0045] In another embodiment, a non-temporary computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-temporary computer-readable program product includes written instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors operably coupled to the facility's cabling system and power (e.g., current) sources of current, cause one or more processors to perform operations including (a) directing the transmission of current from the trunk cable of the cabling system to the facility's device via branch cables operably coupled to the trunk cable via distribution junctions configured to direct current from the trunk cable to branch cables; (b) monitoring or instructing the monitoring of the power (e.g., current) consumption of the device in the trunk cable, distribution junctions and branch cables; and (c) controlling or instructing the control of current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

[0046] In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises one or more media. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by the same processor among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operation is performed by different processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-temporary computer-readable program product comprises a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0047] In another embodiment, a device for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising at least one controller configured to (a) be operably coupled to the facility's cabling system and current power supply, (b) direct the transmission of current from the main cable of the cabling system to the facility's device via branch cables operably coupled to the main cable via distribution junctions configured to direct current from the main cable to branch cables, (c) monitor or direct the power consumption of the device in the main cable, distribution junctions and branch cables, and (d) control or direct the current from the main cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

[0048] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) to (d) are performed by the same controller among the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) to (d) are performed by different controllers among the at least one controller.

[0049] This disclosure provides systems, devices, and / or non-transient computer-readable media (e.g., software) that facilitate wired and / or wireless connectivity within an enclosure and between the enclosure and the external environment. In certain implementations, a control panel is provided configured to provide network services to end targets (e.g., devices) within a facility (e.g., a building). The end targets (e.g., devices) may be coupled together by a network including at least one coaxial cable. The control panel may include a coaxial cable connector configured to couple to at least one coaxial cable. The control panel may include a direct current (DC) power supply, a data networking headend, and / or a cellular communication headend. In some embodiments, the DC power supply is (i) coupled to the coaxial cable connector and (ii) configured to provide DC signals to at least a portion of at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, a data networking headend is configured to (i) be coupled to a coaxial cable connector and (ii) communicate with at least a first subset of end targets (e.g., devices) within an enclosure (e.g., a building) (e.g., using a communication protocol and / or via at least one coaxial cable). In some embodiments, a cellular communication headend is coupled to a coaxial cable connector. In some embodiments, a cellular communication headend is coupled to at least a second subset of end targets (e.g., devices) within an enclosure (e.g., a building) via at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, a cellular communication headend is configured to provide first cellular communication to the coaxial cable connector for transmission via a second subset of end targets (e.g., devices). In some embodiments, a cellular communication headend is configured to receive second cellular communication from the coaxial cable connector upon reception of second cellular communication by a second subset of end targets (e.g., devices).

[0050] A particular embodiment may include one or more of the following features: A control panel in which a second subset of end devices includes a cellular antenna, and a cellular communication headend is configured to transmit a first cellular communication via the cellular antenna and to receive a second cellular communication when the cellular antenna receives a second cellular communication. A control panel in which a second subset of end devices includes a passive antenna, and a cellular communication headend is configured to transmit a first cellular communication via the passive antenna and to receive a second cellular communication when the passive antenna receives a second cellular communication. A control panel in which the data networking headend is a G.hn headend and the communication protocol is the G.hn protocol. A control panel in which the data networking headend is a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) headend and the communication protocol is the MoCA protocol. A control panel in which a first subset of end devices is power-consuming devices, and the control panel also includes a controller configured to manage the consumption of DC signals between power-consuming devices by negotiating with the power-consuming devices (e.g., electrically) via a data network headend. A control panel also including a plurality of optical fiber connectors, wherein the control panel is configured to communicate with additional control panels via optical fibers coupled to the optical fiber connectors. A control panel in which a first subset of end devices includes a plurality of window controllers, and the control panel also includes a floor window controller, wherein the floor window controller is configured to (i) generate color transition instructions, and (ii) transmit the color transition instructions to the window controllers using a data network headend. A control panel in which a data networking headend is configured to generate and receive signals in a first frequency range as part of communicating in a communication protocol, wherein the first and second cellular communications are in a second frequency range, and the first and second frequency ranges do not overlap.

[0051] A particular embodiment may include an apparatus for controlling one or more optically switchable windows, the apparatus comprising: a first connector, the first connector configured to be coupled to a first network cable; a low-pass filter coupled to the first connector; a DC-DC circuit coupled to the low-pass filter and configured to receive a DC signal from the first network cable via the low-pass filter and to convert the DC signal into one or more tuned DC signals; a second connector, the second connector configured to provide a first tuned DC signal from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable; and one or more controllers, the one or more controllers (1) receive one of the tuned DC signals from the DC-DC circuit and thereby supply power (2) to be powered, and (3) to provide bidirectional communication between a first external device coupled to one or more controllers via a first connector and a second external device coupled to one or more controllers via a second connector; (4) to be powered, and (5) to provide bidirectional communication between a first external device coupled to one or more controllers via a first connector and a second external device coupled to one or more controllers via a second connector; (5) to provide a color transition signal based on a color transition signal to at least one optically switchable window via a window cable; and (6) to provide a color transition signal based on a color transition signal to at least one optically switchable window via a third connector.

[0052] A particular embodiment may include one or more of the following features: an apparatus in which a first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, a second external device is an end device, and one or more controllers are configured to receive power delivery requests from the end device and to forward the power delivery requests to the control panel; an apparatus in which one or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption by the second external device of the first regulated DC signal, and before negotiating power consumption, one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device of the first regulated DC signal to a predetermined limit; an apparatus in which one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector, the G.hn interface is configured to provide bidirectional communication between the first external device and the apparatus in the G.hn communication protocol; an apparatus in which one or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to a first connector, the MoCA interface is configured to provide bidirectional communication between the first external device and the apparatus in the MoCA communication protocol. A device in which one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the Ethernet interface is configured to provide bidirectional communication in the Ethernet communication protocol between a second external device and the device. A device in which one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector, and the G.hn interface is configured to provide bidirectional communication in the G.hn communication protocol between a first external device and the device, and one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the Ethernet interface is configured to provide bidirectional communication in the Ethernet communication protocol between a second external device and the device, and one or more controllers are configured to translate communication between the G.hn communication protocol and the Ethernet communication protocol. A device in which the low-pass filter includes an inverter choke.An apparatus in which the DC-DC circuit includes at least one of a buck converter and a boost converter. An apparatus in which the first regulated DC signal provided to the second connector includes a 48-volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet network protocol.

[0053] A particular embodiment may include a network adapter. The network adapter includes a first connector, the first connector configured to be coupled to a first network cable; a low-pass filter coupled to the first connector; a DC-DC circuit coupled to the low-pass filter and configured to receive a DC signal from the first network cable through the low-pass filter and to convert the DC signal into one or more tuned DC signals; a second connector, the second connector configured to provide one of the tuned DC signals from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable; and one or more controllers. The above controllers include one or more controllers collectively configured to (1) receive one of the DC signals regulated from a DC-DC circuit and thereby supply power, (2) communicate bidirectionally with a first external device coupled to one or more controllers via a first connector using a first communication protocol, (3) communicate bidirectionally with a second external device coupled to one or more controllers via a second connector using a second communication protocol, and (4) provide bidirectional communication between the first external device and the second external device, including converting communication in the first communication protocol to communication in the second communication protocol, and vice versa.

[0054] A particular embodiment may include one or more of the following features: A network adapter in which a first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, a second external device is an end device, and one or more controllers are configured to receive (e.g., electrical) power delivery requests from the end device in a first communication protocol and to transfer the power delivery requests to the control panel in a second communication protocol. A network adapter in which one or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption by a second external device of a first regulated DC signal, and before negotiating power consumption, one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device of the first regulated DC signal to a predetermined limit. A network adapter in which one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector and the first communication protocol is the G.hn communication protocol. A network adapter in which one or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to a first connector and the first communication protocol is the MoCA communication protocol. A network adapter in which one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the second communication protocol is the Ethernet communication protocol. A network adapter in which the first connector is a coaxial cable connector and the second connector is a Power over Ethernet connector. A network adapter in which one of the regulated DC signals provided by the second connector is a 48-volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet protocol.

[0055] A particular embodiment may include a system. The system includes a control panel configured to generate a DC signal, a plurality of distribution junctions, a first coaxial cable trunk, and a plurality of additional coaxial cable trunks, wherein the first coaxial cable trunk is coupled between the control panel and the first junction of the distribution junctions, and the additional coaxial cable trunks are coupled between each pair of distribution junctions, and the distribution junctions, the first coaxial cable trunk, and the additional coaxial cable trunks are collectively configured to (i) transmit a DC signal from the control panel to each of the distribution junctions, (ii) transmit a first time-varying signal, formatted in a first digital communication protocol, bidirectionally between the control panel and each of the distribution junctions, and (iii) transmit a second time-varying signal, formatted in a second digital communication protocol, bidirectionally between the control panel and at least one of the distribution junctions, wherein the first time-varying signal is a signal in a first frequency band, and the second time-varying signal is a signal in a second frequency band, and the first and second frequency bands do not overlap.

[0056] A particular embodiment may include one or more of the following features: Each distribution junction is a system comprising an unbalanced transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, wherein the primary circuit is coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit is coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, and the tertiary circuit is coupled to a coaxial cable branch specific to the distribution junction, and has a first power level (e.g., a communication signal such as RF), and a first time-varying signal received by the primary circuit is unevenly divided to the secondary and tertiary circuits, so that the secondary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a second power level (e.g., a communication signal such as RF) which is at least 75% of the first power level, and the tertiary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a third power level (e.g., a communication signal such as RF) which is 25% or less of the first power level. A system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalanced transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, the primary circuit being coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit being coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, and the tertiary circuit being coupled to a coaxial cable branch line specific to the distribution junction, having a first power level, and a first time-varying signal received by the primary circuit being unevenly divided to the secondary and tertiary circuits, so that the secondary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a second power level, and the tertiary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a third power level, the third power level being lower than the second power level. A system in which at least some of the distribution junctions further include a first inductor that couples a DC signal from an upstream coaxial cable trunk to a downstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction, and a second inductor that couples a DC signal from an upstream coaxial cable trunk to a coaxial cable branch line associated with the distribution junction. A system in which a second time-varying signal is a cellular communication signal, and a first junction of a distribution junction includes a branch circuit including a passive cellular antenna. A system in which a first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than that of the cellular communication signal, and the first junction of the distribution junction includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating through the first junction of the distribution junction to the remaining junctions of the distribution junction.A system in which a first frequency band associated with a first time-varying signal is lower than that of a cellular communication signal, and at least one of the distribution junctions includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating from the upstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction to the downstream coaxial cable trunk. A system in which a second junction of the distribution junctions is directly coupled to the first junction of the distribution junctions by the first trunk of an additional coaxial cable trunk, and the second junction of the distribution junctions includes a branch circuit including an additional passive cellular antenna. A system in which a first frequency band associated with a first time-varying signal is lower than that of a cellular communication signal, and the second junction of the distribution junctions includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating beyond the first and second distribution junctions to the remaining junctions of the distribution junctions.

[0057] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a system, apparatus (e.g., a controller), and / or a non-temporary computer-readable medium (e.g., software) that implements any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0058] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a method of using any of the systems and / or apparatus disclosed herein for, for example, their intended purposes.

[0059] In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises at least one controller programmed to direct a mechanism used to implement (e.g., carry out) any of the methods disclosed herein, the at least one controller being operably coupled to the mechanism.

[0060] In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to implement (e.g., perform) the methods disclosed herein. The at least one controller may implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0061] In another embodiment, the system comprises at least one controller programmed to direct the operation of at least one other device (or its components), the device (or its components), the at least one controller being operably coupled to the device (or its components). The device (or its components) may include any device (or its components) disclosed herein. The at least one controller may direct any device (or its components) disclosed herein.

[0062] In another embodiment, a computer software product comprising a non-temporary computer-readable medium storing program instructions, which, when read by a computer, instruct the computer to perform (e.g., execute) one of the methods disclosed herein, the non-temporary computer-readable medium being operably coupled to the mechanism. The mechanism may comprise any device (or any component thereof) disclosed herein.

[0063] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0064] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a non-temporary computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, performs instructions of a controller(s) (for example, as disclosed herein).

[0065] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and a non-temporary computer-readable medium coupled thereto. The non-temporary computer-readable medium comprises machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements one of the methods disclosed herein and / or executes instructions of one or more controllers disclosed herein.

[0066] The contents of this summary section are provided as a simplified introduction to the present disclosure and are not intended to be used to limit the scope of any invention disclosed herein or the appended claims.

[0067] Additional aspects and advantages of the Disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, and only exemplary embodiments of the Disclosure are shown and described. As will be understood, other different embodiments of the Disclosure are possible, and some of their details can be modified in various obvious ways without departing from the Disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description should be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0068] These and other features and embodiments are described in further detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0069] Reference All publications, patents, and patent applications described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated as being incorporated by reference. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0070] Novel features of the present invention are specifically described in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention is obtained by referring to the following detailed description which describes exemplary embodiments in which the principles of the present invention are utilized, and to the appended drawings or figures (also referred to herein as "Figures" and "Pair of Figures"). [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of the enclosure's control system architecture and perspective view is shown. [Figure 2] The network infrastructure is outlined below. [Figure 3] The electrical circuit is shown in general terms, and the distribution junction housing is also shown. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram of a network cable is shown. [Figure 5] The signals at different frequencies are shown schematically. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of the network adapter is shown below. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram of the control panel is shown. [Figure 8] The network infrastructure is outlined below. [Figure 9] The network infrastructure is outlined below. [Figure 10] The network infrastructure is outlined below. [Figure 11] The network infrastructure is outlined below. [Figure 12] A schematic cross-sectional view of an electrochromic device is shown. [Figure 13] A schematic cross-sectional side view of a colorable window is shown. [Figure 14] This provides a schematic overview of the computer system. [Figure 15] This provides a schematic overview of the floor network topology of various facilities. [Figure 16] Figure A shows a schematic representation of the facility's floor network topology. Figure B shows a diagram of a portion of the facility's floor network. [Figure 17] This provides a schematic overview of the floor network topology of various facilities. [Figure 18] The floor network topology of the facility is shown in a schematic manner. [Figure 19] A schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of the distribution junction is shown. [Figure 20] The various mechanical configurations related to the distribution joint are schematically shown. [Figure 21] The various mechanical configurations related to the distribution joint are schematically shown. [Figure 22] A schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of the distribution junction is shown. [Figure 23] This provides a schematic overview of various network infrastructures. [Figure 24] A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method using a distribution junction is shown. [Figure 25] A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for managing devices is shown. [Figure 26] A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for prioritizing the power budget of devices is shown. [Figure 27] A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for managing power distribution for a device is shown. [Figure 28] A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for managing a device in the context of a colorable window is shown.

[0071] The figures and elements within this document may not be drawn to scale. Various elements of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0072] Various embodiments of the present invention are shown and described herein, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided only as examples. Numerous modifications, alterations, and substitutions can occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be used.

[0073] Terms such as "a," "an," and "the" are not intended to refer to a single entity only, but rather to include general classes from which specific examples may be used for illustrative purposes. While the terms herein are used to describe specific embodiments of the invention(s), their use is not intended to define the invention(s).

[0074] Where a range is mentioned, unless otherwise specified, it is meant to be inclusive. For example, the range between value 1 and value 2 is inclusive and means that it includes both value 1 and value 2. The inclusive range extends to any value from approximately value 1 to approximately value 2. As used herein, the terms “adjacent” or “adjacent to” include “next to,” “adjoining,” “in contact with,” and “in proximity to.”

[0075] When used herein, such as in the claims, the conjunction "and / or" in phrases such as "including X, Y, and / or Z" means including any combination or multiple X, Y, and Z. For example, such phrase means including X. For example, such phrase means including Y. For example, such phrase means including Z. For example, such phrase means including X and Y. For example, such phrase means including X and Z. For example, such phrase means including Y and Z. For example, such phrase means including multiple X. For example, such phrase means including multiple Y. For example, such phrase means including multiple Z. For example, such phrase means including multiple X and multiple Y. For example, such phrase means including multiple X and multiple Z. For example, such phrase means including multiple Y and multiple Z. For example, such phrase means including multiple X and Y. For example, such phrase means including multiple X and Z. For example, such a phrase means that it includes multiple Ys and Zs. For example, such a phrase means that it includes X and multiple Ys. For example, such a phrase means that it includes X and multiple Zs. For example, such a phrase means that it includes Y and multiple Zs. The conjunction "and / or" has the same effect as the phrase "X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof or multiple thereof". The conjunction "and / or" has the same effect as the phrase "one or more X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof". The conjunction "and / or" has the same effect as the phrase "at least one X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof". The conjunction "and / or" has the same effect as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z".

[0076] The terms “operably coupled” or “operably connected” refer to a first element (e.g., mechanism) that is coupled (e.g., connected) to a second element in order to enable the intended operation of the second element and / or the first element. The coupling may include physical or non-physical coupling. Non-physical coupling may include signal-inductive coupling (e.g., wireless coupling). The coupling may include physical coupling (e.g., physically connected) or non-physical coupling (e.g., via wireless communication).

[0077] An element "configured" to perform a function (e.g., a mechanism) includes structural features that cause the element to perform this function. Structural features may include electrical features such as circuits or circuit elements. Structural features may include circuits (e.g., comprising an electrical circuit or an optical circuit). An electrical circuit may comprise one or more wires. An optical circuit may comprise at least one optical element (e.g., a beam splitter, mirror, lens, and / or optical fiber). Structural features may include mechanical features. Mechanical features may comprise latches, springs, closures, hinges, chassis, supports, fasteners, or cantilevers, etc. Performing a function may include utilizing logical features. Logical features may include programming instructions. Programming instructions may be executable by at least one processor. Programming instructions may be stored or encoded in a medium accessible by one or more processors. In addition, in the following description, the phrases “operable to,” “adapted to,” “configured to,” “designed to,” “programmed to,” or “capable to” may be used interchangeably as needed.

[0078] Certain disclosed embodiments provide network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a building or other facility). The network infrastructure can be used for a variety of purposes, such as providing communication and / or power (e.g., electric) services. Communication services may include high-bandwidth (e.g., wireless and / or wired) communication services. Communication services may be for residents of the facility and / or users outside the facility (e.g., a building). The network infrastructure may function in conjunction with or as a replacement for the infrastructure of one or more cellular operators. The network infrastructure may be provided within a facility that includes colorable (e.g., electrically switchable) windows. Examples of components of the network infrastructure include high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor, or controller (which may include a processor). The network infrastructure may be operably coupled to and / or include a wireless network. The network infrastructure may include wiring.

[0079] In some embodiments, the network infrastructure may include wiring. Wiring may include cables. Cables may include jackets, insulators, wires, and / or optical fibers. Cables may include cable assemblies. Cables may include at least one optical cable, coaxial cable, twisted pair, direct-buried cable, flexible cable, filled cable, Heliax cable, non-metallic sheathed cable, metallic sheathed cable, multicore cable, pair cable, portable cord, ribbon cable, shielded cable, single cable, premises wiring, underwater cable, twin-axial (Twinax) cable, twin and earth (TT&E) cable, twin lead, and / or twisted pair. Coaxial cables may have a characteristic impedance of, for example, up to about 50 or 75 ohms (e.g., LMR-400).

[0080] In some embodiments, the network infrastructure provides additional coverage. This additional coverage may exceed the coverage provided by the cellular operator. The additional coverage may be (i) inside the building and / or (ii) outside the building. For example, the network infrastructure may provide and / or supplement the cellular operator's ability to provide coverage outside the building and any other capacity. For example, the network infrastructure may provide and / or supplement cellular coverage near a facility (e.g., a building). Near a facility could be, for example, at least about 10 meters (m), 50 m, 100 m, 500 m, or 1000 m from the edge of the facility. Near a facility could be any of the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 10 m to about 1000 m, about 10 m to about 500 m, or about 500 m to about 1000 m). Near a building could be within the facility grounds. In some cases, the facility and its associated network infrastructure can function as a cellular tower.

[0081] High-speed, high-frequency communication protocols, such as fifth-generation (5G) communication protocols, face challenges before they can be widely accepted and adopted. For example, higher frequency bands may require more antennas compared to lower frequency bands. For instance, it is estimated that deploying 5G cellular service in a given area would require more than twice the number of antennas needed to provide the same level of coverage as 4G cellular service. Some of these antennas could be located within or as part of a facility. Consider the example of providing 5G in urban canyons, such as roads in metropolitan areas like Manhattan, New York, or Singapore. 5G services may require many antennas to provide adequate coverage and capacity in these cities. Currently, there is insufficient public space (such as utility poles) where operators can deploy antennas to provide adequate 5G coverage (and / or other capacity). Private buildings connecting urban canyons could provide space for 5G antennas.

[0082] 5G and other high-frequency protocols can be susceptible to attenuation. 5G communications (especially in their high-frequency bands, such as the range of approximately 6 to 30 GHz) can be particularly susceptible to attenuation by conductive structures such as reinforced concrete in walls, aluminum-clad insulation (e.g., in the walls and floors of a facility), low-dielectric films on glass, and / or electrochromic devices on glass. To address this, active elements such as repeaters may be installed within the facility. For example, cellular repeaters may be placed on or near walls, windows, floors, and / or ceilings that attenuate radio signals.

[0083] When describing the cellular protocols disclosed herein, 5G is often used as an example. However, the disclosed embodiments relate to any wireless communication protocol or combination of protocols.

[0084] The communication infrastructure described herein can provide a variety of functions, some of which are listed here.

[0085] In some embodiments, one or more systems and / or devices described herein are configured to selectively attenuate (e.g., block) and / or transmit radio signals in a controllable manner, for example. In various embodiments, systems and / or devices are configured such that the transmission of radio communications is at least partially based on location and / or time. In various embodiments, systems, devices, or any component thereof are configured to be at least partially automatically controlled (e.g., fully automatically controlled). One or more components of systems and / or devices described herein are fully automatically controlled. Controlled may include attenuating, modulating, modifying, managing, suppressing, training, adjusting, constraining, monitoring, manipulating, and / or inducing. In some embodiments, control is achieved by using a controllable active element that receives, analyzes, manipulates (e.g., converts, and / or compares) and / or retransmits a signal. For example, (i) the receiving antenna may face one direction on one side of the facility (e.g., a wall or window), and (ii) the transmitting antenna may face another direction (e.g., opposite or substantially opposite) on the other side of the facility (e.g., another wall or window). Between the receiver and the transmitter, the active element may include one or more transceivers and / or other signal converters. In some embodiments, (I) when the active element is active (e.g., "on"), it transmits a signal, and (II) when the element is inactive (e.g., "off"), it does not transmit a signal.

[0086] In some embodiments, the active element that receives and retransmits (e.g., automatically) a wireless communication signal is a repeater. This repeater can amplify the signal and / or otherwise transmit the signal to a location where it is not received. The repeater (or other active element) may include a specific combination of antennas. The combination of antennas may include a type of antenna located inside the facility (e.g., a building) and a different type of antenna located outside the facility (or opposite the interior wall or window). In relation to the description of various antenna types herein, some embodiments use a handle antenna located outside the building that is operably coupled to one of the other antennas located inside the building (e.g., a microstrip antenna). In some implementations, one or both antennas are positioned on a mullion feature such as a beauty cap. The antennas may include isotropic antennas, dipole antennas, monopole antennas, array antennas, loop antennas, conical antennas, aperture antennas, traveling wave antennas, or random wire antennas. Loop antennas may include large loop (e.g., quad or half-loop), intermediate (e.g., halo), and / or small loop (e.g., ferrite) antennas.

[0087] Electrochromic windows have been observed to block signals with insertion losses ranging from approximately 10 dB to approximately 20 dB (for example, depending on the transmission frequency). Greater losses may occur at higher frequencies. Some embodiments disclosed herein use radio retransmitters and / or repeaters to avoid signal blockage by electrochromic windows. In some embodiments, such retransmitters are disposed on or near at least one Integrated Glass Unit (IGU). The IGU may comprise an electrochromic device (e.g., including a layered structure).

[0088] In certain embodiments, windows and / or walls include, for example, a layer or structure that substantially (e.g., completely) blocks radio transmissions over a specific spectral range. The layer structure may be of an IGU. In one example, the blocking layer completely covers one surface of a light (e.g., glass). An example of a window blocking structure is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 709,339, filed September 19, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A security system may use, for example, a facility structure that attenuates (e.g., weakens) the transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in a specific region of the spectrum (e.g., at least within the 5G region). The facility structure may include windows, doors, or walls. A security system may use, for example, walls and / or windows that substantially (e.g., effectively) block the transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in a specific region of the spectrum (e.g., at least within the 5G region).

[0089] In some embodiments, the signal repeater and / or retransmitter does not need to retransmit the radio signal (e.g., directly) across the facility structure (e.g., walls or windows). In some cases, it selectively transmits the radio signal through the facility to one or more locations away from where the signal was received. It may carry the received signal by using a wired network and implementing a communication protocol such as Ethernet. For example, an externally generated radio signal is received by a sensor installed on the roof (or any other exterior wall) of a building and transmitted via a wire to one or more distant locations within the facility (e.g., the basement, ten floors below the roof).

[0090] In some cases, a retransmission system may transmit a cellular signal (or other appropriate radio signal) to a selected building location at one or more selected times, and that signal may be delayed from the time the radio signal was first received. The communication may be stored or its transmission may be delayed. This retransmission may be performed regardless of where and when the communication embodied in the cellular signal is received.

[0091] Because a large number of 5G antennas are expected to be needed to provide adequate coverage and capacity in densely built-up areas such as the central areas of certain major cities, deploying 5G antennas on the exterior of buildings can complement the data transport and antenna infrastructure of telecommunications operators' cellular networks. In some cases, such antennas are connected to broadband network infrastructure, such as Ethernet network infrastructure within the building. An exemplary full or partial wired network infrastructure to support such 5G applications is described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,324, filed on 8 February 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0092] Various antenna configurations can be deployed to support 5G cellular and / or other communication services. Both coverage and capacity can be considered when designing wireless communication infrastructure. Coverage can be addressed by providing various antennas strategically placed (e.g., attached to or as part of a facility) to provide cellular services in a defined area. Capacity can be addressed by having high-bandwidth data carrier lines and / or switches. Several examples of high-capacity infrastructure are provided in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803324, filed on 8 February 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Capacity can also be addressed, for example, by providing multiple antennas within a defined area.

[0093] In certain embodiments, individual antennas are dedicated to specific protocols. At least one of the antennas (e.g., each of the antennas) may have its own baseband radio. For example, one or more antennas may be designed for use with CBRS, such as a low-power citizens broadband radio (CBRS) baseband radio. In the United States, CBRS is a 150 MHz wide broadcast band in the approximately 3.5 GHz band (e.g., approximately 3550 MHz to approximately 3700 MHz), which can be used to provide radio services not authorized by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission. Other antennas and associated baseband radios may be provided for cellular communications, for example, in accordance with specific protocols and / or jurisdictional constraints (e.g., rules and / or regulations). The required baseband radios may be installed in one or more locations within a facility, for example, within a digital architecture element. A digital architecture may refer to an embodiment of architecture characterized by one or more digital technologies.

[0094] Various embodiments support multiple frequency bands and / or multiple protocols. Examples include cellular networks (3G, 4G, and / or 5G, etc.), local area networking for devices and / or internet access, wireless networks such as WLANs (e.g., Wi-Fi) and / or related applications such as Voice over WLAN, and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). A given antenna (or combination of antennas) may be protocol-independent. The associated transmitters and / or receivers may be protocol-independent. For example, carriers A and B may use different radios (e.g., different channels using Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) for networking over coaxial cable). Similar antenna structures may be used to transmit and / or receive signals of multiple protocols.

[0095] 5G networks may include Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC), and / or Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) can be used in 5G as an evolution of 4G LTE mobile broadband services. Compared to 4G networks, 5G networks may offer faster connectivity, higher throughput, and / or greater capacity. Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC) may refer to using the network for applications requiring uninterrupted and / or stable data exchange. Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC) can be used to connect a large number of low-power (e.g., current-based), low-cost devices, for example, over a wide area, with high scalability and / or increased battery life.

[0096] In some embodiments, a 5G network transmits at least about 1 Gbit (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s of data per second. In some embodiments, the air delay target for 5G is at least about 1 millisecond (ms), 2 ms, 3 ms, 4 ms, 5 ms, 8 ms, 10 ms, 11 ms, 15 ms, or 30 ms. The air delay target for 5G can be up to about 2 ms, 3 ms, 4 ms, 5 ms, 8 ms, 10 ms, 12 ms, 15 ms, 30 ms, or 40 ms. The air delay target for 5G can be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 1 to about 4 ms, about 3 ms to about 10 ms, about 8 ms to about 12 ms, or about 12 ms to about 40 ms).

[0097] In some embodiments, the infrastructure may include, for example, devices for indoor communications (e.g., within a building) via the 5G protocol that do not support Wi-Fi. Some 5G antennas may be deployed throughout the building (e.g., where 5G may be limited to line of sight). The antennas may be located in one or more locations where Wi-Fi antennas would normally be present. In some installations, 5G will have sufficient bandwidth and / or coverage to provide one or more (e.g., all) of the functions currently provided by Wi-Fi.

[0098] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes an area defined by at least one structure. The at least one structure may include at least one wall. The enclosure may include and / or surround one or more subenclosures. The at least one wall may include metal (e.g., steel), clay, stone, plastic, glass, plaster (e.g., gypsum), polymer (e.g., polyurethane, styrene, or vinyl), asbestos, fiberglass, concrete (e.g., reinforced concrete), wood, paper, or ceramic. The at least one wall may include wire, brick, block (e.g., lightweight concrete block), tile, drywall, or frame (e.g., steel frame).

[0099] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more openings. One or more openings may be reversibly closable. One or more openings may be permanently open. The basic length scale of one or more openings may be smaller than the basic length scale of the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The basic length scale may include the diameter, length, width, or height of the boundary circle. The surface of one or more openings may be smaller than the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The opening surface may be a percentage of the entire wall(s). For example, the opening surface may be about 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the wall(s). The wall(s) may include a floor, ceiling, or side walls. Closable openings may be closed by at least one window or door. The enclosure may be at least part of a facility. The enclosure may include at least part of a building. The building may be a private building and / or a commercial building. A building may include one or more floors. A building (e.g., its floors) may include at least one of the following: rooms, halls, entrances, attics, basements, balconies (e.g., interior or exterior balconies), stairwells, corridors, elevator shafts, facades, mezzanines, penthouses, garages, porches (e.g., enclosed porches), terraces (e.g., enclosed terraces), cafeterias, and / or ducts. In some embodiments, enclosures may be stationary and / or mobile (e.g., trains, planes, ships, vehicles, or rockets). A facility may include one or more enclosures. A facility may be stationary or mobile. For example, a facility may include temporary vehicles such as automobiles, RVs, buses, trains, aircraft, helicopters, ships, or boats. For example, a facility may include one or more buildings.

[0100] In some embodiments, the enclosure surrounds an atmosphere. The atmosphere may contain one or more gases. The gases may include inert gases (e.g., argon or nitrogen) and / or non-inert gases (e.g., oxygen or carbon dioxide). The atmosphere of the enclosure may be similar to the external atmosphere of the enclosure (e.g., ambient atmosphere) in at least one external atmosphere characteristic, including temperature, relative gas content, gas type (e.g., humidity, and / or oxygen level), debris (e.g., dust and / or pollen), and / or gas velocity. The atmosphere of the enclosure may differ from the external atmosphere of the enclosure in at least one external atmosphere characteristic, including temperature, relative gas content, gas type (e.g., humidity, and / or oxygen level), debris (e.g., dust and / or pollen), and / or gas velocity. For example, the enclosure atmosphere may be less humid (e.g., drier) than the external (e.g., ambient) atmosphere. For example, the enclosure atmosphere may contain the same (e.g., or substantially the same) oxygen-to-nitrogen ratio as the atmosphere outside the enclosure. The gas velocity within the enclosure may be similar (e.g., substantially) throughout the enclosure. The gas velocity within the enclosure may differ in different parts of the enclosure (e.g., by flowing gas through vents coupled to the enclosure).

[0101] Certain disclosed embodiments provide network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a building or other facility). The network infrastructure can be used for a variety of purposes, such as providing communication and / or power services. Communication services may include high-bandwidth (e.g., wireless and / or wired) communication services. Communication services may be for residents of the facility and / or users outside the facility (e.g., a building). The network infrastructure may function in conjunction with, or as a replacement for, the infrastructure of one or more cellular operators. The network infrastructure may be located within a facility that includes electrically switchable windows. Examples of components of the network infrastructure include high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor, and / or controller (which may include a processor). The network infrastructure may be operably coupled to and / or include a wireless network. The network infrastructure may include wiring. One or more sensors may be deployed (e.g., installed) in the environment as part of the network installation and / or after the network installation.

[0102] In various embodiments, the network infrastructure supports a control system for one or more windows, such as electrochromic (e.g., colorable) windows. The control system may comprise one or more controllers operably coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. While the embodiments disclosed describe electrochromic windows (also referred herein as “optically switchable windows,” “colorable windows,” or “smart windows”), the concepts disclosed herein may apply to other types of switchable optical devices, such as liquid crystal devices or suspended particle devices (SPDs), NanoChromics displays (NCDs), Organic electroluminescent displays (OELDs), suspended particle devices (SPDs), NanoChromics displays (NCDs), or Organic electroluminescent displays (OELDs). Display elements may be mounted as part of a transparent body (such as a window). For example, liquid crystal devices and / or suspended particle devices may be implemented instead of or in addition to electrochromic devices. Tinted windows may be installed in buildings and other (non-temporary) facilities, and / or in any other enclosures such as temporary vehicles, including automobiles, RVs, buses, trains, aircraft, helicopters, ships, or boats.

[0103] In some embodiments, a tintable window exhibits a change (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) in at least one optical property of the window when a stimulus is applied. The stimulus may include optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimuli. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows can be used to control lighting and / or glare conditions, for example, by regulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. One or more tintable windows can be used to control the temperature inside an enclosure (e.g., a building), for example, by regulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. Controlling solar energy can control the heat load imposed inside the enclosure (e.g., a building or other facility). The control may be manual and / or automatic. The control may be used to maintain one or more required (e.g., environmental) conditions, for example, occupant comfort. The control may include reducing the energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system (hereinafter abbreviated as "HVAC"). In some cases, the tintable window may respond to one or more environmental sensors and / or user controls (e.g., they may be communicatively coupled thereto). The tintable window may be an electrochromic window (e.g., it may be an electrochromic window). The window may be located from inside to outside an enclosure structure (e.g., a building or other facility), but is not required. The tintable window may operate using liquid crystal devices, suspended particle devices, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices (e.g., microshutters), or any currently known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through the window.A window (e.g., one equipped with a MEMS device for coloring) is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 443,353, filed May 15, 2015, titled "Multi-pane windows including electrochromic devices and electrochromechanical systems devices," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, one or more colorable windows may be located inside an enclosure (e.g., a building), for example, between a conference room and an entrance hall. In some cases, one or more colorable windows may be used in place of, for example, passive windows and / or uncolored windows in automobiles, trains, aircraft, and other vehicles.

[0104] In some embodiments, the colorable window comprises an electrochromic device (hereinafter referred to as the “EC device” (hereinafter abbreviated as ECD), or “EC”). The EC device may include at least one coating comprising at least one layer. At least one layer may include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another, for example, when a potential is applied to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) and corresponding injection of charge equilibrium electrons into the electrochromic material. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be caused, for example, by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) and corresponding injection of charge equilibrium electrons into the electrochromic material. Reversibility may be over the service life of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (e.g., significant) degradation in the reversibility of the window's coloration over one or more coloring cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition become irreversibly bonded to the electrochromic material (e.g., the induced (altered) coloration state of the window cannot revert to its original coloration state). In various EC devices, at least some (e.g., all) of the irreversibly bonded ions can be used to compensate for "hidden charges" within the material (e.g., ECD).

[0105] In some embodiments, suitable ions include cations. The cations can include lithium ions (Li+) and / or hydrogen ions (H+) (i.e., protons). In some other embodiments, other ions may be suitable. Cation intercalation can be with respect to (e.g., a metal) oxide. A change in the intercalation state of an ion (e.g., a cation) with respect to an oxide can induce a visible change in the coloring (e.g., color) of the oxide. For example, the oxide can transition from a colorless state to a colored state. For example, lithium ion intercalation with respect to tungsten oxide (WO3-y(0 < y ≦ ~0.3)) can change tungsten oxide from a transparent state to a colored (e.g., blue) state. An EC device coating as described herein is disposed within the visible portion of a colorable window, and as a result, the coloring of the EC device coating can be used to control the optical state of the colorable window.

[0106] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more sensors. The sensors can facilitate the control of the enclosure's environment so that the enclosure's occupants may have an environment that is more comfortable, enjoyable, beautiful, healthy, productive (e.g., in terms of occupant performance), livable (e.g., easy to work in), or any combination thereof. The sensors(s) may be configured as low-resolution or high-resolution sensors. The sensors may provide an on / off indication of the occurrence and / or presence of specific environmental events (e.g., a single-pixel sensor). In some embodiments, the accuracy and / or resolution of the sensors may be improved through artificial intelligence analysis of their measurements. Examples of artificial intelligence techniques that may be used include reactive, finite-memory, theory of mind, and / or self-aware techniques known to those skilled in the art. A sensor may be configured to process, measure, analyze, detect and / or react to one or more of the following: data, temperature, humidity, sound, force, pressure, electromagnetic waves, position, distance, motion, flow, acceleration, velocity, vibration, dust, light, glare, color, gas, and / or other aspects (e.g., properties) of the environment (e.g., enclosure). Gases may include volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Gases may include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, water vapor (e.g., humidity), oxygen, radon, and / or hydrogen sulfide. One or more sensors may be calibrated in a factory setting. Sensors may be optimized to perform accurate measurements of one or more environmental properties present in the factory setting. In some cases, a factory-calibrated sensor may be conservatively optimized for operation in a target environment. For example, a factory setting may include an environment different from the target environment. The target environment may be the environment in which the sensor is deployed. The target environment may be the environment in which the sensor is expected to operate and / or is to operate. The target environment may differ from the factory environment. The factory environment corresponds to the location where the sensor was assembled and / or built. The target environment may include the factory where the sensor was not assembled and / or built. In some cases, the factory setup may differ from the target environment to such an extent (e.g., measurably so) that sensor readings obtained in the target environment will be inaccurate.In this context, "incorrect" can refer to a sensor reading that deviates from a specific accuracy (e.g., specified by the sensor manufacturer). In some situations, a factory-calibrated sensor may provide readings that do not meet the accuracy specifications (e.g., those specified by the manufacturer) when operating in the target environment.

[0107] In some embodiments, one or more sensors are operably coupled to at least one controller and / or processor. Sensor readings may be acquired by one or more processors and / or controllers. In some embodiments, the controller may comprise a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). The controller may receive inputs (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller may comprise circuits, electrical wiring, optical wiring, sockets, and / or outlets. The controller may deliver outputs. The controller may comprise multiple (e.g., sub)controllers. The controller may be part of a control system. The control system may comprise a master controller, a network controller (e.g., a floor controller), or a local controller. A local controller may control one or more targets (e.g., devices). For example, a local controller may be a window controller (e.g., controlling an optically switchable window), an enclosure controller, or a target (e.g., a component) controller. For example, a controller may be part of a hierarchical control system (e.g., comprising a main controller that directs one or more controllers, e.g., a network controller, a local controller (e.g., a window controller), an enclosure controller, and / or a target (e.g., a component) controller). The physical location of controller types within a hierarchical control system can change. For example, in a first time, a first processor may act as the main controller, a second processor may act as the network controller, and a third processor may act as the local controller. In a second time, the second processor may act as the main controller, the first processor may act as the network controller, and the third processor may remain as the local controller. In a third time, the third processor may act as the main controller, the second processor may act as the network controller, and the first processor may act as the local controller.A controller can control one or more devices (e.g., directly coupled to a device). A controller can be located in proximity to one or more devices it controls. For example, a controller can control optically switchable devices (e.g., IGUs), antennas, sensors, and / or output devices (e.g., light sources, sound sources, odor sources, gas sources, HVAC outlets, or heaters). In one embodiment, a network controller can direct one or more local controllers, one or more enclosure controllers, one or more target (e.g., component) controllers, or any combination thereof. A network controller may comprise a floor controller. For example, a network (e.g., including a floor) controller can control multiple local (e.g., including windows) controllers. Multiple local controllers can be located in a portion of a facility (e.g., a portion of a building). A portion of a facility can be a floor of the facility. For example, a network controller can be assigned to a floor. In some embodiments, a floor may comprise multiple network controllers, depending on, for example, the floor size and / or the number of local controllers coupled to the network controller. For example, a network controller can be assigned to a portion of a floor. For example, a network controller may be assigned to a portion of local controllers located within a facility. For example, a network controller may be assigned to a portion of a floor within a facility. A master controller may be coupled to one or more network controllers. Network controllers may be located within a facility. A master controller may be located within or outside a facility. A master controller may be located in the cloud. A controller may be part of a building management system (hereinafter abbreviated as "BMS") or operably coupled to one. A controller may receive one or more inputs. A controller may generate one or more outputs. A controller may be a single-input single-output controller (SISO) or a multi-input multiple-output controller (MIMO).The controller can interpret the received input signals. The controller can acquire data from one or more targets (e.g., components such as sensors). Acquisition can include receiving or extracting. The data can include measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controller can include feedback control. The controller can include feedforward control. Control can include on / off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. Control can include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller can include closed-loop control. The controller can include open-loop control. The controller can include a user interface. The user interface can include (or be operablely coupled with) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. Output can include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer. The controller may perform real-time calculations (e.g., using communication data such as sensor data and / or cabling network analysis). Network analysis may relate to communication speed, (e.g., electrical) power consumption, and / or communication density on the network (e.g., over a given time and / or within a given time frame). The controller (e.g., a control system) may utilize historical data and / or third-party data for its control. Historical data may be from the facility, similar facilities, or different facilities.

[0108] Figure 1 shows an example of a control system architecture 100 comprising a master controller 108 that controls a network controller 106, which in turn controls a local controller 104. In some embodiments, the local controller controls one or more IGUs, one or more sensors, one or more output devices (e.g., one or more radiators), or any combination thereof. Figure 1 shows an example of a configuration in which the master controller is operably coupled (e.g., wirelessly and / or wired) to a building management system (BMS) 124 and a database 120. The arrows in Figure 1 represent communication paths. The controller may be operably coupled (e.g., directly / indirectly and / or wired and / or wirelessly) to an external source 110. The external source may comprise a network. The external source may comprise one or more sensors or output devices. The external source may comprise a cloud-based application and / or database. Communication may be wired and / or wireless. The external source may be located outside the facility. For example, the external source may comprise one or more sensors and / or antennas located, for example, on the walls or ceilings of the facility. Communication can be unidirectional or bidirectional. In the example shown in Figure 1, all communication arrows indicate bidirectional communication.

[0109] A controller may monitor (e.g., physical) changes in the operating conditions of the apparatus, software, and / or methods described herein, and / or may instruct such changes. Control may include adjustment, operation, limitation, instruction, monitoring, adjustment, modulation, variation, alteration, suppression, checking, induction, or management. To be controlled (e.g., by a controller) may include being attenuated, modulated, altered, managed, suppressed, trained, adjusted, constrained, monitored, operated, and / or induced. Control may include controlling control variables (e.g., temperature, power, voltage, and / or profile). Control may include real-time control or offline control. Calculations utilized by the controller may be performed in real time and / or offline. The controller may be a manual controller or a non-manual controller. The controller may be an automatic controller. The controller may operate on demand. The controller may be a programmable controller. The controller can be programmed. The controller may comprise a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). A controller may receive inputs (e.g., from at least one sensor). A controller may deliver outputs. A controller may comprise multiple (e.g., sub)controllers. A controller may be part of a control system. A control system may comprise a master controller, a network controller, and local controllers (e.g., an enclosure controller or window controller). A controller may receive one or more inputs. A controller may generate one or more outputs. A controller can be a single-input single-output (SISO) or a multi-input multiple-output (MIMO) controller. A controller may interpret received input signals. A controller may acquire data from one or more sensors. Acquisition can include reception or extraction. Data can include measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. A controller may include feedback control. A controller may include feedforward control.Control may include on / off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. Control may include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller may include closed-loop control. The controller may include open-loop control. The controller may include a user interface. The user interface may include (or be operably coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. Outputs may include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer.

[0110] The methods, systems, and / or apparatus described herein may include a control system. The control system may communicate with any of the apparatus described herein (e.g., sensors). The sensors may be of the same or different types, for example, as described herein. For example, the control system may communicate with a first sensor and / or a second sensor. The control system may control one or more sensors. The control system may control one or more targets (e.g., components) of a building management system (e.g., lighting, security, and / or air conditioning systems). The controller may adjust at least one (e.g., environmental) characteristic of the enclosure. The control system may adjust the enclosure environment using any target (e.g., components) of the building management system. For example, the control system may adjust the energy supplied by heating and / or cooling elements. For example, the control system may adjust the velocity of air flowing through vents into and from the enclosure. The control system may include a processor. The processor may be a processing unit. The controller may include a processing unit. The processing unit may be central. The processing unit may comprise a central processing unit (hereinafter abbreviated as "CPU"). The processing unit may comprise a graphics processing unit (hereinafter abbreviated as "GPU"). One or more controllers or control mechanisms (e.g., comprising a computer system) may be programmed to implement one or more methods of the disclosure. A processor may be programmed to implement the methods of the disclosure. A controller may control at least one target (e.g., component) of a forming system and / or apparatus disclosed herein.

[0111] In some embodiments, multiple targets (e.g., devices) may be operably (e.g., communicably) coupled to a control system. The control system may include a hierarchy of controllers. A target may comprise a radiator, sensor, or window (e.g., IGU). A radiator may comprise light, a buzzer, a heater, an HVAC actuator, or an alarm. A target may be any target disclosed herein. At least two of the multiple targets may be of the same type. For example, two or more IGUs may be coupled to a control system. At least two of the multiple targets may be of different types. For example, a sensor and a radiator may be coupled to a control system. Sometimes, the multiple targets may comprise at least 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10000, 50000, 100000, or 500000 targets. Multiple targets can be any number between the aforementioned numbers (e.g., 20 targets to 500,000 targets, 20 targets to 50 targets, 50 targets to 500 targets, 500 targets to 2,500 targets, 1,000 targets to 5,000 targets, 5,000 targets to 10,000 targets, 10,000 targets to 100,000 targets, or 100,000 targets to 500,000 targets). For example, the number of windows on a floor can be at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, or 50. The number of windows on a floor can be any number between the aforementioned numbers (e.g., 5 to 50, 5 to 25, or 25 to 50). Sometimes, targets can be located within multi-story buildings. At least a portion of the floors of a multi-story building may have targets controlled by a control system (for example, at least a portion of the floors of a multi-story building may be controlled by a control system). For example, a multi-story building may have at least 2, 8, 10, 25, 50, 80, 100, 120, 140, or 160 floors controlled by a control system.The number of floors (e.g., targets therein) controlled by the control system can be any number between the aforementioned numbers (e.g., 2 to 50, 25 to 100, or 80 to 160). The floor can be at least about 150 square meters (m²). 2 )、250m² 2 、500m² 2 、1000m² 2 、1500m² 2 、or 2000m² 2 and can have an area of any of the aforementioned floor area values (e.g., between about 150 m² 2 and about 2000 m² 2 , between about 150 m² 2 and about 500 m² 2 , between about 250 m² 2 and about 1000 m² 2 , or between about 1000 m² 2 and about 2000 m² 2 ). The total length of the cabling in the cabling network system can be at least about 500 feet ('), 1000', 10000', or 100000' depending on the size of the facility, the number and type of targets to which the cabling system is connected, and the coverage of the facility by the cabling system.

[0112] In certain embodiments, a portion of the communication network of an enclosure (e.g., a building) can be logically and / or physically divided into one or more vertical data planes and one or more horizontal data planes. The function of the vertical data plane can be to provide data communication and optionally to provide power vertically with respect to the earth (e.g., between floors of a multi - floor building). The function of the horizontal data plane can be to provide data communication and / or power to network nodes on one or more floors of a facility (e.g., a building). In some embodiments, the communication network of an enclosure (e.g., a building) uses a vertical plane connected to a plurality of horizontal data planes by a control panel. At least one control panel can be provided for each horizontal data plane.

[0113] In certain embodiments, the infrastructure described herein provides a communication network and power resources around the perimeter of an enclosure (e.g., a building), and optionally has separate communication and power distribution systems on each or all of the floors of a facility (e.g., a building). The infrastructure may be installed during the construction of the enclosure (e.g., a building) or as part of a renovation. The infrastructure may provide high-speed communication (e.g., data rates of gigabits or more) and may provide power taps at designated locations throughout the building, for example, around the exterior walls of floors, in rooms, along ceilings, along floors, or in other areas of the facility such as a building.

[0114] In certain embodiments, direct connection to the infrastructure of a facility (e.g., a building) is provided via a power and / or communication dock in a device such as the network adapter described herein. Wires connecting to the network adapter may be routed in various locations, such as within the walls of an enclosure (e.g., a building). In certain embodiments, one or more wires are routed in horizontal mullions above and / or below windows. In certain embodiments, one or more wires are routed below the floor surface, for example, within a floorboard.

[0115] In various embodiments, links in the vertical data plane are links between network devices (e.g., devices communicably coupled to a network). One or more network devices may be located on the same floor and / or different floors of a facility (e.g., a building). In certain embodiments, one or more floors (e.g., each) within a facility (e.g., a building) have network devices (e.g., network switches and / or network routers). Network devices may be connected to two or more links in the vertical data plane. Network devices may be located within a control panel. In certain embodiments, the link medium (in the vertical plane) comprises and / or consists of one or more optical fibers. In certain embodiments, current-carrying wires(s) are used instead of and / or together with optical fibers, for example, as the link medium (e.g., in the vertical data plane). Optical fibers(s) may be located in the horizontal and / or vertical data planes. Current-carrying wires(s), such as copper wires(s), may be provided as twisted-pair and / or coaxial cables. In some embodiments, a (e.g., vertical) data plane includes bundles of fibers connecting network devices (e.g., located on different floors of a facility (e.g., a building)). For example, links 213, 215, or 217 of the (e.g., vertical) data plane shown in Figure 2 may include bundles of fibers (e.g., each). In certain embodiments, at least one bundle of fibers (e.g., each) may include at least 12, 24, 48, 96, or 114 optical fibers.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the optical fibers may be used for communications within the enclosure. At least a portion of the optical fibers may not be used (for example, unused fibers may be referred to herein as “dark fibers”). In some embodiments, during or after installation, some fibers are used for information technology (IT) and / or other service infrastructure of the enclosure (e.g., building), while some other fibers are “dark”. Dark fibers may not be used, at least temporarily, for the IT and / or services of the enclosure (e.g., sensors, windows, HVAC, lighting, security). Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems may be abbreviated herein as “HVAC”. Services may include controlling the operation of one or more devices. Devices may include sensors, tintable windows, heaters, coolers (e.g., air conditioners), ventilators, lighting, security, radiators, antennas, or actuators. In some embodiments, at least about 1 / 10, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, or 1 / 2 (half) of the installed fiber is dark at the time of installation. In some embodiments, at least about 1 / 10, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, or 1 / 2 (half) of the installed fiber is not dark at the time of installation. Dark fiber may be used to lease out as a service to tenants and / or other enclosure occupants. Examples of services to be leased out may include Wi-Fi, cellular communications, streaming internet, and any other IT-related services used by residents and / or tenants.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the data plane has a topology (e.g., wires and / or devices operably coupled to the wires are configured in the topology). The topology can be a linear topology or a star topology. For example, a (e.g., horizontal) data plane may have a linear network topology. In a linear topology, the network topology may include a control panel at one end of the data transmission medium and a plurality of nodes connected along the length of the data transmission medium (downstream of the control panel). In some embodiments, the transmission medium (e.g., network cable such as coaxial and / or twisted-pair cable) is located around part or all of the perimeter of the facility's floor. In some embodiments, at one or more locations along the network cable there is an electrical coupling(s) for connecting to one or more nodes (e.g., end nodes) via a network adapter, optionally. The end nodes may comprise any of the devices disclosed herein (e.g., sensors, radiators, colorable windows, HVAC systems, or lighting). In some embodiments, the electrical coupling is a cap, which is a passive device. The cap can provide electrical coupling between the network cable and associated nodes (e.g., any one of the devices receiving services from the horizontal data plane). In some embodiments, the electrical coupling is provided at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 feet) in (e.g., vertical) mullions. The nodes may be infrastructure nodes. Infrastructure nodes may include floor controllers, Ethernet switches, and / or headends.

[0118] Figures 15 to 18 described herein illustrate embodiments of a horizontal data plane using a ring-shaped and / or star-shaped topology.

[0119] Figure 2 shows one embodiment of a communication network 200 for an enclosure such as a building. The example shown in Figure 2 shows a link which may include one or more cables (e.g., coaxial cables or twisted cables). The link may be a communication line and / or a power line. The cable may be a cable bundle. The cable bundle can transmit power and / or communications. The cable (e.g., a coaxial cable) can transmit power and / or communications. In the illustrated embodiment, the network 200 includes a vertical network portion (such as a vertical communication line 205) that connects network targets (e.g., components) on multiple floors of an enclosure (e.g., a facility). In the example shown in Figure 2, the vertical data plane includes a first control panel 207 on the first floor, a second control panel 209 on the second floor, and a third control panel 211 on the third floor. A physical communication and / or power link 213 connects the control panels 207 and 209. Physical communications and / or power link 215 connects control panels 209 and 211. Physical communications and / or power link 217 connects control panels 207 and 211. As shown in the figure, control panels 207, 209, and 211 form a loop together with physical communications and / or power links 213, 215, and 217. The loop can provide redundancy within the network. For example, physical communications and / or power link 217 provides redundancy in the vertical plane in the event that one of the other communications and / or power links (e.g., link 213 or 215) fails. Communications links 213, 215, and 217 may comprise electric wires and / or optical fibers. Communications and / or links 213, 215, and 217 may comprise coaxial wires.

[0120] In the example shown in Figure 2, the control panel 207 is communicably coupled (e.g., connected) to an external network 201 (e.g., outside the building and / or in the cloud) via an access network 203. The control panel 207 is communicably coupled (e.g., connected) to access the network 203 by physical communications and / or power links 204, which may include optical fibers and / or electric wires. The control panel 207 is connected to an antenna 289 located outside the building. Antenna 289 may be a receiving antenna (e.g., a donor antenna).

[0121] Figure 2 shows an example of a control panel 207 operably coupled (e.g., connected) to a first horizontal network portion, which is a horizontal data plane 219. Control panel 209 is operably coupled (e.g., connected) to a second horizontal network portion, which is a horizontal data plane 221. Control panel 211 is operably coupled (e.g., connected) to a third horizontal network portion, which is a horizontal data plane 223. Horizontal data planes 219, 221, and 223 include multiple network targets (e.g., components and / or devices). Network targets (e.g., components) may include client nodes. Client nodes may be located on each floor of a building.

[0122] In the example shown in Figure 2, the horizontal data plane 219 includes network adapters 251a to 251e. A network adapter (e.g., 251a) is coupled to a communication line and / or power line (e.g., trunk line) 259 via a distribution junction (e.g., 290). Network adapter 251a is connected to a group of targets (e.g., sensors and / or radiators) 253, which is connected to an IGU 255, which may be an optically switchable window. Network adapter 251a is configured to provide power and data to the group of targets 253 (also referred to herein as the “target ensemble”), for example, using the Power over Ethernet (PoE) protocol. Network adapter 251d is connected to at least one third-party device 257, such as a computing device. Network adapter 251d is configured to provide network connectivity to the third-party device 257. Providing network connectivity may include logic that performs a supported Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP), such as PoE.

[0123] In the example shown in Figure 2, the control panel 207 is connected to network adapters 251a-251e by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 259. The connection may be by coaxial or other types of (e.g., electrical and / or optical) cable. The control panel 209 is connected to client nodes on the horizontal data plane 221 by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 261. The control panel 211 is connected to client nodes on the horizontal data plane 223 by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263. In the example shown in Figure 2, the control panel 207 comprises two headends 265a and 265b, a switch 267 (hereinafter abbreviated as "SW"), and a distributed antenna system (hereinafter abbreviated as "DAS") 269. The switch is operably coupled (e.g., connected to two edge distribution frame devices (hereinafter abbreviated as "EDF")). Headend 265a is connected to multiple links (e.g., coaxial cables), such as link 259. Although not shown, headend 265b is connected to at least one link (e.g., coaxial cable). Switch 267 is connected to (e.g., communication and / or power) links 204, 213, and 217. The connections may be via optical cables (one or more) and / or electrical cables (one or more). DAS 269 is configured to control and / or communicate with one or more antennas, such as antenna 273 on the horizontal data plane 219. The antennas may be internal building antennas (e.g., 273) and / or external (e.g., donor) antennas (e.g., 289). In the example shown in Figure 2, power and / or communication link (e.g., cable) 271 connects antenna 273 to control panel 207. Link 271 is also connected to a directional coupler (e.g., configured for directional data communication protocols such as MoCA or d.hn). The other client nodes 275a and 275b are connected to the control panel 207 via a power and / or communication link (e.g., cable) 271.Headends 265a and 265b are configured to transmit and / or receive data encoded according to one or more protocols, including (i) next-generation home networking protocols (hereinafter abbreviated as “G.hn” protocols), (ii) communication technologies for transmitting digital information over wires traditionally used for power delivery (e.g., for power delivery only), or (iii) hardware devices designed for data communication and transfer over building electrical wiring (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi). The data transfer protocol can facilitate data transmission speeds of at least 1 gigabit per second (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, 4 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s. The data transfer protocol can operate over telephone wiring, coaxial cables, wires, and / or (e.g., plastic) optical fibers. The data transfer protocol can be facilitated using chips (e.g., including semiconductor devices). In the example shown in Figure 2, the horizontal data plane 221 includes a network adapter 277 connected to a control panel 209 by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 279. The horizontal data plane 221 includes a physical power line (e.g., 48V DC) and / or (power and / or communication) line 281 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to the control panel 209. The horizontal data plane 223 includes a second link (e.g., coaxial cable) 283 for connecting one or more network adapters or other client nodes (not shown) to the control panel 211, in addition to a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263. The horizontal data plane 223 includes a physical (e.g., power and / or communication) line 285 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to the control panel 211. The control panel 211 is also connected to an (e.g., cellular) antenna 287.

[0124] In certain embodiments, the control panel includes one or more headends configured to communicate via protocols such as G.hn, Ethernet (including the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MocA) protocol) and / or any one or more of various cellular protocols, including fourth-generation (4G) and / or fifth-generation (5G) cellular communication. 4G communication may comply with the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standard. The control panel may also include one or more network switches, gateways, and / or routers.

[0125] In some embodiments, the cabling network includes at least one distribution junction (referred to herein as “splitter” and “junction”). A distribution junction may include at least one connector. A distribution junction may distribute one or more time-varying signals and / or (e.g., DC) power within the network infrastructure. A distribution junction may couple two or more circuits together. For example, a distribution junction may couple at least two of upstream circuits, downstream circuits, and branch circuits together. Upstream and downstream circuits may be part of a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk). In some embodiments, the bus is a subsystem used to connect targets (e.g., components) and to transfer data (e.g., signals) and / or (e.g., DC) power between these targets (e.g., components). A distribution junction may be passive or active. A distribution junction may include active targets and passive targets (e.g., components). A distribution junction may include one or more paths within electrically coupled upstream circuits, downstream circuits, and branch circuits. A distribution junction may include a microprocessor or be operably coupled to a microprocessor. The cabling network may include passive distribution junctions and / or active distribution junctions. An active distribution junction has at least one active component. A passive distribution junction has one or more passive components and no active components.

[0126] In some embodiments, the active distribution junction includes circuitry (e.g., electrical circuits). The circuitry within the active distribution junction may include signal repeaters, range extenders, signal transponders, amplifiers, preamplifiers, power management circuits, and / or microprocessors. The power management circuitry may control (e.g., monitor and / or manage) the power flow (e.g., DC) through the distribution junction. The active distribution junction may facilitate the formation of longer network buses (e.g., signal repeaters and / or amplifiers can extend the substantial length of the network bus). The active distribution junction may provide the option to dynamically change (e.g., extend) the size of the network (e.g., by adding signal repeaters and / or amplifiers). Changing the network size may include changing the size of the network bus. The option to dynamically change the network size may provide dynamic extension and / or reduction of the network. The option to dynamically change the network size may facilitate the formation of a flexible network, for example, with respect to its size and / or the connectivity of targets to the distribution junction. The active distribution junction may facilitate power management in the network infrastructure. This is facilitated, for example, by (i) monitoring voltages and / or voltages along a network (e.g., along a network bus), and / or by (ii) negotiating the power consumption of targets (e.g., components) coupled to a branch circuit.

[0127] In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. A passive distribution junction may include one or more capacitors, inductors, and / or transformers. A passive distribution junction may include (i) a first inductor that couples (e.g., DC) power from an upstream circuit to a branch circuit (or vice versa), and / or (ii) a second inductor that couples (e.g., DC) power from an upstream circuit to a downstream circuit (or vice versa). A passive distribution junction may include at least one transformer. At least one transformer may couple one or more time-varying signals between two or more circuits (e.g., three circuits). A passive distribution junction may include one or more filters.

[0128] In some embodiments, the distribution junction provides impedance matching. In some embodiments, the distribution junction may include a transformer. For example, impedance matching can be provided by implementing a distribution junction that utilizes a transformer. Impedance matching can help reduce (e.g., eliminate) unwanted signal reflections from the distribution junction in the network infrastructure. The transformer may have multiple windings. At least two (e.g., all) of the multiple windings may be formed from the same number of turns wound on a common core (e.g., to provide a balanced transformer). At least two (e.g., all) of the multiple windings may be formed from different numbers of turns wound on a common core (e.g., to provide an unbalanced transformer). The diameters of at least two (e.g., all) of the windings may be the same. The diameters of at least two (e.g., all) of the windings may be different. The transformer (in the distribution junction) may be configured to split time-varying signals in a balanced or unbalanced manner. A balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and evenly distribute the signal to multiple circuits. This even distribution of the signal to multiple circuits means that the signals in each circuit may be approximately (e.g., measurably) equal. For example, a balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and evenly distribute the signal to a second and a third circuit (e.g., approximately half of the original power). An unbalanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and unevenly distribute the signal to multiple circuits. This uneven distribution means that at least two of the signals in the circuits may differ. For example, an unbalanced transformer can distribute the signal from a first circuit to a second circuit at a first proportion (e.g., 85%) of the original power (e.g., electrical power) and to a third circuit at a second proportion (e.g., 15%) of the original power. The first and second proportions are not equal and add up to approximately 100% (e.g., a reduction of less than 100%). If the signal from the first circuit (100%) is unevenly divided between the second and third circuits, the second circuit may receive up to approximately 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, or 40% of the signal from the first circuit, and the third circuit may receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit.If the signal from the first circuit (100%) is unevenly divided between the second and third circuits, the second circuit may receive any signal percentage value from the first circuit between the aforementioned percentage values ​​(e.g., about 1% to about 40%, about 1% to about 20%, or about 20% to about 40%), and the third circuit may receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit. The second circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving the lower signal strength) may be a branch circuit, and the third circuit may be a downstream circuit, for example, as a result, most of the signal may survive along the network bus. In other embodiments, the first circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving the higher signal strength) may be a branch circuit, for example, as a result, most of the signal may be transferred to the branch circuit.

[0129] In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes at least one filter. The distribution junction may include one or more low-pass filters, high-pass filters, and / or band-pass filters. The filters may help minimize (block) certain frequencies from branch circuits (e.g., if such frequencies are not utilized by the branch circuit) and / or certain frequencies from downstream circuits (e.g., if such frequencies are not utilized by the downstream circuit). By minimizing (e.g., blocking) such frequencies (e.g., signal portions), the filters can reduce noise in the network as signals propagate through the network (e.g., through a bus).

[0130] In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes a frequency shifting function. For example, the control panel and the distribution junction may frequency shift one or more time-varying signals as the signals travel through the network to reduce interference. The signals may be shifted to a region of the spectrum available in an unused medium (e.g., coaxial cable). The distribution junction may include passive or active targets (e.g., components) that remove this frequency shift when carrying signals from the network bus to the branch circuit and insert this frequency shift when carrying signals from the branch circuit to the network bus. The control panel may include a G.hn headend (or other targets (e.g., components)) that add and remove frequency shifts to time-varying signals during transmission and reception by the control panel.

[0131] In some embodiments, one or more antennas are coupled to the network. The antennas may be located outside and / or inside an enclosure (e.g., a building). The antennas may be passive or active. At least two of the antennas may be of the same type. At least two of the antennas may be of different types. The external antenna is sometimes referred to herein as the “donor antenna”. The external antenna may be a directional antenna (e.g., a Yagi antenna). The antenna may be directly coupled to the control panel. The antenna may be indirectly coupled to the control panel. Indirect coupling of the antenna to the control panel may include coupling via one or more distribution junctions. The signal from the antenna may travel a distance through the cable, for example, resulting in a reduction in the signal-to-noise ratio, for example, a reduction in signal strength compared to noise. The signal from the antenna may travel through one or more distribution junctions, for example, resulting in a reduction in the signal-to-noise ratio, for example, a reduction in signal strength compared to noise. The network may include preamplifiers and / or amplifiers (e.g., to increase the signal-to-noise ratio, for example, to increase the signal strength compared to noise). Amplifiers and / or preamplifiers may (i) be located adjacent to the antenna, (ii) be part of the antenna circuit, (iii) be part of the controller (e.g., in the control panel), (iv) be operably coupled to the controller, (v) be adjacent to a distribution junction, and / or (vi) be operably coupled to a distribution junction. The antenna may be active. The antenna may include amplifiers and / or preamplifiers. In the example shown in Figure 2, antenna 273 is connected to the control panel 207 via head 265a. However, the antenna may be communicatively coupled to a cable (e.g., coaxial and / or trunk line 265a). The antenna may be connected to the trunk line before any distribution junction (e.g., 290) and / or other targets (e.g., devices such as 253). Although not bound by theory, connecting the antenna to the trunk line before any distribution junction and / or devices may reduce signal loss (compared to noise).Amplifiers and / or preamplifiers may be included, for example, in the control panel of a floor controller. In some embodiments, the network bus has a headend. One or more devices (e.g., antennas) may be coupled to the network bus. The antennas may be high-frequency antennas. The antennas may operate in a frequency range of about 700 MHz to about 2100 MHz. The antennas may be coupled closer to the headend than other devices (e.g., upstream). As an example, the first device on the network bus (e.g., a branch circuit closest to the headend) may be an antenna. The antenna may operate at least about 3.56 GHz, and the second device may be another antenna operating at at least about 700 MHz, and other (e.g., downstream) devices coupled to the network bus may utilize the signal at frequencies up to about 400 MHz. The highest frequency (e.g., 3.56 GHz) antenna may be connected to the network bus at a first distribution junction having a first low-pass filter located in the downstream circuitry, for example. The first low-pass filter can attenuate (e.g., block) signals in downstream circuits having frequencies above the antenna frequency (e.g., about 3.20 GHz). A lower-frequency antenna (e.g., 700 MHz) may be connected to the network bus at a second distribution junction having a second low-pass filter in the downstream circuit. The second low-pass filter can attenuate (e.g., block) signals in downstream circuits having frequencies above the antenna frequency (e.g., about 400 MHz). In such an arrangement, the signals from both antennas (e.g., 3.56 GHz and 700 MHz) do not need to pass through more distribution junctions than a limited number (e.g., one, two, etc.). The number of distribution junctions through which the high-frequency signals pass can be a single-digit integer (e.g., up to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 distribution junctions). As a result, the antennas can receive higher signal strength (e.g., a higher signal-to-noise ratio). Furthermore, high-frequency noise from downstream reflections and / or other sources can be reduced (for example, eliminated).

[0132] Figure 3 shows an example of a cabling network 300. The cabling network includes a bus cable 350 connected to a controller 306. The controller may include a network (e.g., floor) controller. The controller may include a network controller. The controller may be a main controller. Figure 3 shows examples of multiple distribution junctions 301, 302, and 303. Distribution junction 301 is connected to an antenna 321 via a branch cable 351. Antenna 321 may be a high-frequency antenna (e.g., 3.56 GHz) coupled to the bus cable 350. Distribution junction 302 is connected to an antenna 322 via a branch cable 352. Antenna 322 may be a lower-frequency antenna (e.g., 700 MHz). In the example shown in Figure 3, antennas 321 and 322 are dome antennas. Figure 3 shows an example of a third interference junction 303 connected to a local (e.g., including a window) controller 341 via a branch cable 353, which is then connected to an IGU 342 and a sensor 343. The local controller can be a microprocessor.

[0133] Figure 3 shows a detailed electronic circuit diagram of the distribution junction 301, denoted as 310. The detailed electronic circuit diagram 310 includes a transformer that divides the power of a time-varying signal between the upstream, downstream, and branch circuits. In the example shown in Figure 3, the distribution junction 310 includes first and second inductors that couple (e.g., DC) power between the upstream, downstream, and branch circuits. The branch circuit of the distribution junction 310 is coupled to the highest frequency antenna, and the distribution junction 310 includes a low-pass filter. In the example shown in Figure 3, the low-pass filter is formed from an inductor and a capacitor coupled to the downstream circuit. The low-pass filter can attenuate (e.g., block) the signal utilized by the highest frequency (e.g., 3.56 GHz) antenna from the downstream circuit. Downstream devices (e.g., 322, 342, and 343) may utilize frequencies lower than those attenuated by the low-pass filter. The transformer within the distribution junction 310 includes a first winding 361, a second winding 362, and a third winding 363. Windings 361, 362, and 363 are wound around a common core. Figure 3 shows an example of a distribution junction 380 connecting three coaxial cables.

[0134] In some embodiments, the cabling network includes a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk) and branch cables. The network bus and branch cables can distribute one or more time-varying signals and / or (e.g., DC) power within the network infrastructure. The network bus and branch cables may include one or more signal conductors and one or more ground conductors. The network bus may be formed by a plurality of circuits coupled together. The first circuit of the network bus may couple together a controller (e.g., controller 306 in Figure 3) and a distribution junction (e.g., distribution junction 301 in Figure 3). The second and subsequent circuits of the network bus may couple together each pair of distribution junctions (e.g., pairs of distribution junctions 301, 302, and 303). Branch cables (e.g., branch cables 351, 352, and 352) may couple branch circuits to their respective distribution junctions.

[0135] Network buses and branching cables can distribute multiple time-varying signals and / or (e.g., DC) power simultaneously.

[0136] Network buses and branch cables can transmit power (e.g., DC) at any desired nominal voltage. For example, network buses and branch cables can transmit power (e.g., DC) at 12V, 23V, or 48 volts (V). Network buses and branch cables can conform to any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class, such as Class 0, I, II, or II. For example, network buses and branch cables can conform to IEC Class II and therefore can carry up to 100VA, i.e., 100 watts. Network buses and branch cables can have wire thickness (e.g., 12, 14, 16, or 18 gauge) sufficient to carry the required current. Network buses and branch cables may include shielding (e.g., foil shielding, braided shielding, or quad shielding) to reduce crosstalk and / or interference. Network buses and branch cables may include (for example, be formed from) LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG-174, RG-210, RG-213, 8233, or 8267 coaxial cables, or other types of cables. Network buses and / or branch cables may distribute any required number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) identifiable time-varying signal frequency sets. Time-varying signal frequency sets may be distributed into non-overlapping frequency windows. As an example, network buses and / or branch cables may distribute a first time-varying signal frequency set into one or more first frequency windows, and a second time-varying signal frequency set into one or more second frequency windows. The frequency windows (both the first and second sets) may be separated within the frequency domain (e.g., protective bands may exist between frequency windows). In some embodiments, some frequency windows (of the first and / or second set) are not separated by a protection band and / or partially overlap within the frequency domain (for example, the end of one frequency window touches the beginning of another frequency window, e.g., 526 and 529 in Figure 5).Generally, separating adjacent frequency windows with a protection band can reduce noise and / or interference, as well as the cost and complexity of network components (e.g., cables, filters, distribution junctions, etc.).

[0137] A first time-varying signal set distributed by a cabling network may include network data signals (e.g., control-related signals). The first time-varying signal set may be referred to as digital communications or digital data. The first time-varying signal set may include signals configured to be transmitted by communication technologies that transmit digital information over power lines used for power delivery (e.g., delivery only). The first time-varying signal set may include signals configured to be transmitted by hardware devices designed for data communication and transfer (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi) over building electrical wiring. The first time-varying signal set may include signals configured to be transmitted by data transfer protocols that facilitate data transmission speeds of at least 1 megahertz (MHz), 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 50 MHz, 1 MHz, 500 MHz, 1 gigabits per second (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, 4 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s. The data transfer protocols may operate over telephone wiring, coaxial cables, electric wires, and / or (e.g., plastic) optical fibers. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using a chip (e.g., including a semiconductor device). The first time-varying signal set may include power line communication signals such as G.hn, HomePlug®, or HD-PLC compatible signals. The first time-varying signal set may include signals compatible with the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) protocol. The first time-varying signal set may include signals compatible with other protocols, including Ethernet protocols such as 802.3bw, 802.3bp, 802.3ch, and / or 802.3cq. The first frequency window may range from about 2 megahertz (MHz) to about 200 MHz (e.g., as used in the G.hn protocol). As an example, the first frequency window may range from about 500 MHz to about 600 MHz, about 875 MHz to about 1 GHz, or about 1.15 to about 1.5 GHz.

[0138] A second set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include radio frequency signals. The second set of time-varying signals may include signals received by or transmitted through antennas. The second frequency window may be in the range of approximately 600 MHz to approximately 1 GHz, approximately 1.4 GHz to approximately 6 GHz, or approximately 1.7 GHz to approximately 6 GHz. The radio frequency signals may include cellular network signals, such as fourth-generation (4G) and / or fifth-generation (5G) cellular network signals. In some embodiments, the 4G and 5G cellular network signals include signals below approximately 6 GHz. The ranges of the first and second sets of time-varying signals may overlap. The ranges of the first and second sets of time-varying signals may be separated. Separation may be achieved by signal domains not occupied by the first or second set of time-varying signals.

[0139] Figure 4 shows a network cable 400. Network buses and branch cables in the cabling network disclosed herein may be formed from the network cable 400. The network cable 400 includes an inner conductor 401, an insulator 402 (also called a dielectric), an outer conductor 403, and an insulator 404 (also called a jacket or shell). The outer conductor 403 can function as a ground path. The inner conductor 401 can carry direct current (DC). The electromagnetic field carrying the signal is transmitted in the space between the inner conductor 401 and the outer conductor 403 (e.g., primarily or solely there). Coaxial cables can protect signals from external electromagnetic interference (e.g., they can reduce external electromagnetic interference to signals transmitted in coaxial cables). For example, network cable 400 could be LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG-174, RG-210, RG-213, 8233, or 8267 coaxial cable, or another type of cable.

[0140] Figure 5 shows various frequency ranges 500, 510, and 520 of distinguishable signal range divisions along the frequency range that can be transmitted by the network cable 400. Frequency range 500 includes DC signals 501, a first time-varying signal frequency set 502 (e.g., control-related communications), and a second time-varying signal frequency set 504 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related). The first and second time-varying signal frequency sets 502 and 503 are separated by a frequency protection band 503 (e.g., no time-varying signals). Frequency range 510 includes DC signals 511, a first time-varying signal frequency set 512 (e.g., control-related communications), a second time-varying signal frequency set 514 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related), a third time-varying signal frequency set 516 (e.g., control-related communications), and a fourth time-varying signal frequency set 518 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related). Protection bands 513, 515, and 517 separate each pair of time-varying signals. Protection bands 513, 515, and 517 do not have to contain time-varying signals. At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets can transmit signals of the same type (for example, signal frequency sets 512 and 516 may be reserved for the transmission of control-related communications). At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets can transmit signals of different types (for example, signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for the transmission of control-related communications, and frequency set 514 may be reserved for the transmission of media-related communications). As an example, time-varying signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for data signals of about 2 to about 200 MHz (for example, conforming to the G.hn protocol). As a further example, time-varying signal frequency set 516 may be reserved for data signals of about 1.2 to about 1.5 GHz conforming to the MoCA (Multimedia over Coax Alliance) protocol. As another example, time-varying signal frequency sets 514 and 516 may be reserved for analog radio frequency signals having signal frequency set 514, such as frequencies from about 0.6 to about 1.0 GHz, and signal frequency set 518 may be reserved for signal frequencies from about 1.7 to about 6.0 GHz.

[0141] The identifiable signal frequency range 520 includes the DC signal 521, a first time-varying signal frequency set 522, a second time-varying signal frequency set 524, a third time-varying signal frequency set 526, and a fourth time-varying signal frequency set 529. A protection band 523 represents a relatively wide spectral protection band (e.g., no signal) between signals 522 and 524. A protection band 525 represents a relatively narrow spectral protection band (e.g., no signal) between signals 524 and 526. A distinct protection band 527 separates signal sets 526 and 529. The protection band 527 may have a width of a single frequency (less than 10 signal frequencies) or a zero frequency range (thus signal sets 526 and 529 may touch each other). The time-varying signal 529 may be separated from the time-varying signal frequency set 530 by a notch protection band 528 (e.g., no signal). Signals within a signal frequency set may have the same amplitude across the signal frequency set (e.g., 529). Signals within a signal frequency set may have varying amplitudes (e.g., including amplitude increases, amplitude stabilization, and amplitude decreases, as in 502). The slopes of increase and decrease may have the same absolute value. The slopes (slop) of increase and decrease may have different absolute values. A signal frequency set may be a frequency window in which a set of signal frequencies is permitted to be transmitted along a transmission line (e.g., a coaxial cable). The frequencies for transmission (e.g., frequencies for media-related communications) may conform to the communications standards permitted in the jurisdiction. Maintaining and / or facilitating the division into frequency domains (e.g., frequency windows, or signal frequency sets) may involve utilizing one or more signal filters. For example, facilitating a wide protection bandwidth (e.g., 503) may require clear (e.g., 527 and 528) and / or short (e.g., 525) bandwidth gaps, or filters that are less precise (e.g., less expensive) than filters that facilitate clear frequency domain division.

[0142] In certain embodiments, the network infrastructure may include one or more network adapters. Network adapters may be configured to extract power and data (e.g., G.hn and / or MoCA format data) at various locations in the horizontal data plane portion of the network. In some embodiments, network adapters are coupled to each branch cable (also called branch lines) and / or network bus (also called trunk lines) in a cabling network. As described herein, a cabling network may include one or more network buses.

[0143] In some embodiments, the network adapter is configured to provide signals and / or power to downstream targets, such as devices (e.g., end nodes associated with each branch line). The signals may include digital data, such as Ethernet data. In such embodiments, the network adapter functions as a 100 megabit (Mbit) and / or 1000 Mbit Ethernet adapter. The network adapter may also be configured to provide power (e.g., DC power) to downstream targets (e.g., devices). The power may be at least about 24 volts (V), 48 V, or 96 V. The power may be at most about 24 V, 48 V, or 96 V. End nodes coupled to the network adapter may receive power from the connected network adapter and / or send and receive data via the connected network adapter. For example, a digital architecture element (e.g., including a colorable window) may (i) be connected to a network adapter and (ii) be configured to receive data and power from the connected network adapter. The digital architecture element may include one or more sensors. Sensors (one or more) may be connected to the network infrastructure, for example, via a connected network adapter. Nodes that can use power and / or data network communication (including high-speed data communication) may be connected to the network infrastructure, for example, via a network adapter. The cabling system and at least some of its components may support power of at least about 50 watts (W), 100W, 200W, 400W, 600W, 1000W, or 5000W.

[0144] In some embodiments, the cabling network may include a network adapter or be operably coupled to a network adapter. The network adapter may include one or more network components for distributing power internally and / or externally. As an example, the network adapter may include one or more network components for handling (e.g., DC) power. The power may be AC ​​power or DC power. The power handling network components may include one or more (e.g., DC-DC) converters. The network includes DC-AC, AC-DC, AC-AC, or DC-DC converters. The converters may be operably coupled to a network adapter or be part of a network adapter. The DC-DC converter may be configured to convert a DC voltage received from the network bus to different voltages (e.g., higher voltage and / or lower voltage). The DC-DC converter may include one or more power converters, such as a step-down (e.g., buck) converter and / or a step-up (e.g., boost) converter. The output of the DC-DC converter within the network adapter may be used internally by the network adapter (e.g., to power internal network components such as processors, interfaces, and controllers) and / or externally (e.g., to provide power to end nodes). The network adapter may provide power to one or more end nodes, for example, via an adapter or connector. For example, the network adapter may provide DC power to Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches, couplers, and / or injectors. The Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches, couplers, and / or injectors may provide DC power to end nodes, for example, via twisted-pair Ethernet cabling. The DC processing network component may include one or more filters and / or power regulating devices. For example, the DC processing network component may include one or more inductors configured to block time-varying signals between end nodes, network buses, and / or DC-DC converters.

[0145] A network adapter may include network components for processing data communications. For example, a network adapter may include a processor, an interface for coupling to a network bus, and / or one or more interfaces for coupling to end nodes. These network components may receive (and / or be powered by) one or more (e.g., DC) signals received from the network bus and / or generated internally by one or more (e.g., DC-DC) converters. The interface for coupling to the network bus can encode and decode data transmitted over the network bus. When the network bus utilizes a data protocol (e.g., G.Hn protocol or MoCA protocol), the interface for coupling to the network bus may be a data interface (also called a data controller). For example, when the network bus utilizes the G.Hn protocol (as one example), the interface for coupling to the network bus may be a G.Hn interface (also called a G.Hn controller). Interfaces for coupling to one or more end nodes may, for example, include (i) data and / or power interfaces, and (ii) architectural element interfaces. A general-purpose data and / or power interface may, for example, be an Ethernet interface or a Power over Ethernet network interface. Ethernet interfaces and Power over Ethernet network interfaces may be referred to as Ethernet controllers and Power over Ethernet controllers, respectively. An example of an architectural element interface is a window controller (a type of local controller). A window controller may adjust the coloring of a colorable window by providing one or more signals to the colorable window effect in response to a coloring command. Coloring commands may be generated internally by the window controller (for example, according to logic programmed into the window controller) or received via the network bus from a higher-level window controller in the controller hierarchy.The window controller may receive signals, for example, from a tintable window and / or from any connected sensors. The connected sensors may be associated with sensed environmental conditions (e.g., sunlight and / or weather conditions such as cloudy skies) and / or the tinting state of the tintable window. The window controller may use such signals internally (e.g., when generating tinting commands) or transmit such signals to other network components, for example, via a network bus.

[0146] The network adapter may have a relatively small chassis or footprint. The basic length scale may be width, length, height, circle diameter, or boundary circle diameter, and may be abbreviated herein as "FLS". The basic length scale of the network adapter may be up to about 1 cm, 2 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, or 50 cm. The FLS of the network adapter may be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 1 cm to about 50 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, or about 10 cm to about 50 cm). In some embodiments, none of the dimensions exceed about 12 inches or about 10 inches. As an example, the network adapter may have dimensions of about 1.5 inches × about 0.75 inches × about 6 inches. In certain embodiments, the network adapter fits into at least part of a window frame (e.g., mullions and / or transoms), wall, floor, and / or other building structure. The network adapter may connect directly to one or more cables (e.g., wires) that provide power and data, and / or cellular communication, from, for example, a headend or control panel. The network adapter may connect to a window or any other target. The target may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as digital architecture elements. The control panel may comprise circuits arranged on one or more electronic circuit boards. The control panel may include connections to electrical wiring and / or optical wiring. The control panel, device ensemble, edge distribution frame, and / or switch may each be housed in a housing. The housing may include transparent or opaque portions. The housing may include hardened materials (e.g., elemental spirits, metallic alloys, polymers, resins, glass, or allotropes of elemental carbon). The housing may include composite materials. The housing may have one or more perforations. The housing may have windows and / or doors. The housing may have a cover. The cover may snap onto the body of the housing (e.g., reversibly).

[0147] In some embodiments, the network adapter includes frequency shifting functionality. For example, the network adapter may transmit and / or receive signals over a frequency-shifted (e.g., coaxial) cable. Interfaces, controllers, or other components may (i) shift signals transmitted out of the network adapter and / or (ii) reverse the shift of signals entering the network adapter via a network bus (e.g., a branch circuit). This type of arrangement (e.g., using frequency shifting components) allows signaling protocols with overlapping frequency windows to be used without interference. For example, control-related signals and / or media-related signals (e.g., under the MoCA protocol and 4G and / or 5G signals) may overlap when not shifted, but may not overlap when shifted by network components such as a network adapter, distribution junction, and / or control panel (e.g., headend) that have frequency shifting functionality.

[0148] Figure 6 shows an example of a network adapter 600. On the upstream side of the network adapter 600 (e.g., the side facing the control panel), a connector (not shown) is tapped into a (e.g., coaxial) cable 605 (e.g., a network bus) having a grounded sheath and internal conductor. Power and data can be carried by the (e.g., coaxial) cable. Examples of connectors to (e.g., coaxial) cables are described herein (see, for example, the description of the distribution junction 310 in Figure 3).

[0149] On the downstream side of the network adapter (e.g., away from the control panel), (i) connector 619 and (ii) connectors (or other interfaces) for delivering power and data to the local controller 621 are provided. Connector 619 provides power and data transmission functionality. Connector 619 may be an Ethernet connector and have Power over Ethernet functionality. Connector 619 may provide 100Base Ethernet and / or 1000Base Ethernet connectivity. Connector 619 may be an RJ45 connector. Connector 621 may be configured to couple to a target such as an optically switchable window (e.g., an IGU with one or more electrochromic devices arranged in one or more of the lights of an IGU). Connector 619 may be a (e.g., coaxial) cable connector (e.g., RG designated connection or BNC designated connector).

[0150] Power (e.g., DC) from a (e.g., coaxial) cable is divided at point 629. The power then passes through an inductor choke 607 to a line (e.g., one or more cables) 609. The inductor choke 607 allows the DC current to pass through while attenuating (e.g., blocking) time-varying communication signal components (e.g., control-related data, media-related data, and / or antenna signals). A portion of the DC current on line 609 is supplied to a DC / DC converter 611 (also called a DC-DC converter). The DC / DC converter 611 is configured to provide DC power at a voltage configured for the internal operation of the network adapter. The DC power may be used by one or more processors and other targets (e.g., devices) in or connected to the network adapter, such as a PoE power injection circuit 617, a local (e.g., Windows) controller 621, an interface 623, an (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625, and a processor 627.

[0151] A portion of the DC current on line 609 is supplied to DC / DC converter 613. DC / DC converter 613 may be a restoration circuit (e.g., 48V). DC / DC converter 613 is configured to change (e.g., increase or decrease (as needed)) the DC voltage received from line (e.g., cable) 605 to a specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts). Inductor 615 is coupled between DC / DC converter 613 and the Power over Ethernet circuit. Inductor 615 levels the DC voltage supplied by DC / DC converter 613 and attenuates (e.g., cuts off) time-varying signals so that they do not flow towards DC / DC converter 613. Network adapter 600 is configured such that inductor 615 is delivered to Power over Ethernet circuit 617, which is configured to restore the circuit (DC / DC converter 613) with a current on a leg containing a specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts), making power available for transmission over a physical line (e.g., capable of carrying Ethernet format data). The Power over Ethernet circuit 617 is electrically connected to the connector 619 in such a way that it enables the delivery of current at a specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts) to one or more end devices connected to the connector 619.

[0152] Downstream from point 629 is interface 623, which is bidirectionally coupled to the line (e.g., coaxial cable) 605. Interface 623 is configured to encode and decode data according to a communication protocol (e.g., G.hn or MoCA). Interface 623 is configured to (i) decode or otherwise interpret communication (e.g., G.hn) data received from the line (e.g., coaxial cable) 605, and (ii) encode or otherwise format the data. Data (A) is provided via controllers 625 and / or 621, and / or generated internally (e.g., by processor 627 and / or local (e.g., Windows) controller 621) using communication protocol signals (e.g., G.hn) for upstream transmission over the line (e.g., coaxial cable) 605.

[0153] The (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 is bidirectionally coupled to the communication (e.g., G.hn) interface 623. The (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 is bidirectionally coupled to the connector 619. The (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 is configured to provide data in an appropriate physical layer format for subsequent transmissions, such as Ethernet transmissions. For example, the (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 may be configured to decode Ethernet data from the connector 619 (e.g., from an end node) and / or provide unencoded data to the communication (e.g., G.hn) interface 623 for subsequent upstream transmissions. The (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 may be configured to (i) receive data from the interface 623, (ii) encode the data in Ethernet physical layer format, and (iii) provide the encoded data to the connector 619. The Ethernet controller 625 may provide data in a physical layer format suitable for transmission to an end node (e.g., an Ethernet node).

[0154] The processor 627 (including, for example, a microprocessor) is bidirectionally coupled to the communication (e.g., G.hn) interface 623 and the PoE circuit 617. The processor 627 may be configured to provide one or more of a variety of functions to nodes connected to the connector 619 and / or the local (e.g., window) controller 621. Examples of such functions include interpreting sensor data, issuing coloring commands for electrochromic windows, negotiating power delivery (e.g., on the connector 619), and any combination thereof. In some implementations, the microprocessor 627 is configured to provide computing power to devices such as sensors, radiators, or any other devices disclosed herein (e.g., IoT functions such as IoT (Internet of Things) functions of digital architecture elements). Architectural elements, their computing power, their use as part of a (e.g., control) network, and examples of (e.g., control) networks can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 447,169, filed June 20, 2019, titled "SENSING AND COMMUNICATIONS UNIT FOR OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE WINDOW SYSTEMS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As an example, the processor 627 (or any other element in the network adapter 600) may be configured to limit the power consumption of an end device via the connector 619 to, for example, a predetermined power limit (the power limit may be approximately 1 watt, 5 watts, or 10 watts). The limit to the predetermined power limit may be until at least a higher level of power consumption is negotiated (e.g., approved) by the processor 627 and / or the control panel. Following the negotiation of power consumption, the processor 627 may allow the end device to exceed a predetermined limit and / or consume the negotiated amount of power.

[0155] As shown herein, the Power over Ethernet circuit 617 is bidirectionally coupled to the connector 619 for transmitting and / or receiving data. The Power over Ethernet circuit 617 is coupled to the processor 627, thereby enabling direct and / or indirect bidirectional communication between the end node (e.g., target) coupled to 619 and the processor 627. The network adapter 600 is configured to make the processing resources (of the processor 627) available to downstream nodes.

[0156] An optional local (e.g., window) controller 621 is bidirectionally coupled to the microprocessor 627 and cable 622 (e.g., window cable). In some embodiments, the local (e.g., window) controller 621 is configured to perform some or all of the functions of the window controller (also referred to herein as the local controller). As an example, the local controller 621 is a window controller configured to receive color transition commands from a control panel, (i) generate and provide color transition voltage and / or current profiles to an electrochromic device, (ii) receive and / or process sensor readings, and / or (iii) receive current and / or voltage readings from an electrochromic device. Examples of the functionality of a local (e.g., window) controller are provided in (1) U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,248, filed April 17, 2012, titled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS", (2) U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,251, filed April 17, 2012, titled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS", (3) U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 334,835, filed October 26, 2016, titled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES", and (4) U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 334,832, filed October 26, 2016, titled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES", each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0157] In at least some embodiments, one or more control panels are provided that function as distribution hubs. A control panel may provide one or more links to other control panels in the building's (e.g., vertical and / or horizontal) data plane. A control panel may include network switches, such as Ethernet switches, configured to communicate between control panels. Control panels may be located on the same floor but on different floors. For example, a network switch may be configured to communicate between control panels on different floors of a building. As an example, a control panel may include a network switch (e.g., located within and / or between floors) configured to provide network communication (e.g., Ethernet communication) at data rates of at least about 100 megabits per second (Mbit / s), 500 Mbit / s, 1 gigabit per second (Gbit / s), or 10 Gbit / s. A control panel may be connected to optical fiber (one or more) for inter-floor and / or intra-floor communication at installation.

[0158] In some embodiments, there is at least one control panel on each of at least two different floors of a building. In some cases, there is at least one control panel on each floor of a building. In some cases, there are at least two control panels on at least one floor of a building. In certain embodiments, there is less than one control panel per floor of a building (e.g., at least one floor of a building has no control panels). In certain embodiments, the control panels are located in the elevator peer area, or in another area (e.g., a peer) with dedicated mechanical and / or electrical control units, and / or in other infrastructure (e.g., an electrical room with circuit breakers). In certain embodiments, the control panels on a floor(s) are connected to a main controller. The main controller may be located within a building. For example, the main controller may be located in the basement of a building, or in some dedicated area of ​​the building (e.g., the first floor or the top floor). The main controller may be a primary control panel. A primary control panel may have more computing resources (e.g., processing power and memory and storage capacity) than other control panels in the control system (e.g., any other control panels in the control system). In some embodiments, the primary control panel is networked redundantly (e.g., using two or more optical fibers) with the rest of the control panel so that the failure of a single link does not disconnect all control panels from the network. In some embodiments, the primary control panel has wired and / or wireless connections to a cellular network, a backhaul network, the Internet, an extranet, and / or a network that communicates with the Internet. In some embodiments, the main controller is located outside the building. In some embodiments, the main controller is located in the cloud.

[0159] The control panel may include a gateway to the horizontal data plane. In certain embodiments, the control panel is configured to communicate with nodes on the horizontal data plane via (e.g., coaxial) cable. In certain embodiments, the control panel is configured to communicate with nodes on the horizontal data plane via (e.g., twisted-pair copper) cable. The control panel may be configured to implement linear, star, or circular network topologies. The control panel may be configured to implement point-to-multipoint communication. The control panel may be configured to communicate with one or more targets (e.g., nodes) on the horizontal and / or vertical data planes using certain physical and / or link layer protocols (e.g., G.hn protocol and / or MoCA). The G.hn protocol may enable the transmission of data over any wire medium. Data rates within the G.hn protocol may range from about 100 megabytes / second to a maximum of about 1.7 Gb / second. The G.hn protocol may utilize signals from about 2 MHz to about 200 MHz. As implemented herein, the G.hn protocol may tolerate defective cables (for example, defects resulting from tapping bus lines to branch lines, such as via distribution junctions).

[0160] In some embodiments, the control panel comprises at least one communication headend. For example, the control panel may include a MoCA and / or G.hn headend. The headend may be configured to determine the physical topology of the horizontal and / or vertical data planes based at least in part on a profile of the (e.g., electrical) power spectrum provided at the headend. Notches in the power spectrum may be caused by nodes on the network. The size and location of the notches in the power spectrum may correspond to the physical topology of the network provided by the headend. The communication (e.g., G.hn) headend may be configured to identify its allocated portion of the frequency spectrum to be used for communication, for example, to avoid misusing the low-power portion of the spectrum. In certain embodiments, communication (e.g., G.hn) data is transmitted in a point-to-multipoint manner over the horizontal and / or vertical data planes. In some embodiments, a master (G.hn headend) transmits data to a plurality of slave nodes (end nodes on the horizontal and / or vertical data planes). In certain embodiments, the slave nodes do not communicate directly with each other. In certain embodiments, the slave nodes communicate directly with each other.

[0161] In certain embodiments, data plane infrastructure (e.g., horizontal) such as a control panel, cabling such as coaxial cables, and network adapters is used to provide power to nodes on the network. In certain embodiments, the power (e.g., provided at approximately 48 volts DC) is injected into the cables (e.g., coaxial cables) used for the data plane (e.g., horizontal). In certain embodiments, the control panel includes a power manager. The power manager may be configured to control the distribution of power to individual network adapters and / or end nodes on the network. Individual network adapters or other nodes may be supplied with power according to protocols implemented in the power manager. In some protocols, end nodes are not permitted to draw power whenever they wish. Various criteria may be used to determine when and / or how much power to deliver to individual nodes or network adapters on the network. Such criteria may include, for example, ensuring that the total power delivered on the system does not exceed some threshold, for example, a threshold set for a specific electrical standard in a jurisdiction (e.g., 100W for a Class 2 network in the United States). In some embodiments, one or more end nodes connected to the network are not permitted to draw power (or are permitted to draw only a limited amount of power) until they have negotiated with a power manager regarding power. The power manager or another network component may form a virtual network with the end nodes for the purpose of power negotiation and / or network authentication.

[0162] In certain embodiments, the power management protocol uses a defined set of communications between a power manager and one or more network adapters or nodes. For example, power requests may be issued by network adapters, and information requests may be issued by the power manager. Data including the timing and / or conditions of power delivery may be issued by the power manager before power is actually delivered. In certain embodiments, such communications are provided using a communications protocol (e.g., G.hn). Power over Ethernet may be implemented with its own protocol. In certain embodiments, the Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is used to provide relevant communications for power management, regardless of whether the Power over Ethernet protocol is being used.

[0163] Figure 7 shows an example of a control panel 700. The control panel 700 includes a pair of switches 701 and 702. Switches 701 and 702 are coupled to an optical fiber 710. The optical fiber 710 can be connected to other control panels in the network (located on the same floor or on other floors of the building). The optical fiber 710 may include, for example, fibers 204, 213, 215, and 217 in Figure 2. Switches 701 and 702 are also coupled to an Ethernet cable 712. The Ethernet cable 712 is coupled to devices (e.g., located on the floor of the control panel 700) and control components within the control panel 700. The control panel 700 further includes a floor controller 703. The floor controller 703 can control multiple local (e.g., window and / or sensor) controllers (see, for example, the description of the network controller 106 in Figure 1). The control panel 700 further includes first and second communication (abbreviated as "comm." in Figure 7, e.g., G.hn) headends 704 and 705. The communication headends 704 and 705 are coupled to a plurality of network bus cables 714, which may be coaxial cables. The communication headends 704 and 705 may provide (e.g., DC) power and a plurality of identifiable time-varying signals (e.g., simultaneously) over the network bus cables 714. The network bus cables include (e.g., coaxial) power and / or communication cables (e.g., 259, 261, and 263 in Figure 2). The communication headends 704 and 705 may, for example, include preamplifiers and / or amplifiers. The control panel 700 further includes a power distribution unit (PDU) 706. The PDU 706 may function as a network-connected power strip. Control components within the control panel 700, including switches 701 and 702, floor controller 703, and / or communication headends 704 and 705, may receive power via PDU 706. PDU 706 may provide remote network-based monitoring of power usage by connected targets (e.g., devices).The PDU 706 can provide remote network-based control of (e.g., electrical) power distribution to individual powered targets (e.g., components). Thus, the PDU 706 can be used to remotely turn on and off the power supply to various targets (e.g., components) that receive power through the 706, individually or in any combination.

[0164] In certain embodiments, an enclosure (e.g., a building) may include an edge distribution frame extending through the enclosure. The edge distribution frame may include one or more antennas, modems, and / or one or more radios configured to provide wireless communication connectivity to at least a portion of the enclosure. The edge distribution frame (hereinafter abbreviated as “EDF”) may be coupled to a control panel (e.g., a control panel on each floor). The edge distribution frame may communicate with the control panel via telecommunications and / or data communication. As an example, one or more (e.g., combined) cables including one or more current conductors, one or more communication cables, and / or one or more optical fibers may be provided. The current conductors may transmit power (e.g., from the control panel to the edge distribution frame). The current conductor communication cables and / or optical fibers may transmit analog signals and / or digital data between the control panel and the edge distribution frame. Edge distribution frames (one or more) may provide wireless communication capabilities (including, for example, cellular communication and / or Wi-Fi®) in their adjacent areas. Edge distribution frames may form a network (for example, on some or all of the floors of a building) that may overlap with other cabling networks (for example, coaxial cable-containing wiring networks that provide wired and / or wireless connectivity).

[0165] Figure 8 shows an example of an enclosure 800 (e.g., a floor of a building) containing a network of edge distribution frames (EDFs). As shown in the example in Figure 8, the network of EDFs 802a-e can be distributed across the enclosure (e.g., a floor of a building). EDFs 802a-e may include antennas, modems, and / or radios to provide wireless connectivity (e.g., cellular and / or Wi-Fi® connectivity) to detect signals from most (e.g., all) of the floors of the building. EDFs 802a-e may communicate telecommunications and / or data communications with the control panel 800. EDFs 802a-e are coupled to the control panel 850 via their respective cables 802a-e. Links (e.g., cables) 804a-e may be coupled cables containing powered conductors and data communications (e.g., coaxial cables or a combination of cables with one or more optical fibers) to provide power connectivity and data connectivity to the EDFs 802a-e. As shown in Figure 8, the enclosure includes other cabling networks, which may be coaxial cable-based networks. Specifically, the enclosure includes (e.g., coaxial) cables 806a-c that provide connectivity to end targets (e.g., device 808). The (e.g., coaxial) cables 806a-c are distributed over at least a portion (e.g., the whole) of the enclosure, and their receiving zones overlap spatially with a portion of the service area of ​​the EDF 802a-e. Figure 8 shows a remote radio head (RRH) 810. The remote radio head may, for example, be a cellular antenna or radio mounted outside the enclosure. This allows the remote radio head to provide connectivity to a network outside the enclosure. The RRH 810 may be connected to a control panel 850 via ID 812 and a link (e.g., cable) 814. The link (e.g., cable) 814 may be a coupled cable including a current-carrying conductor and / or a communication transmission cable such as a coaxial cable or optical fiber. ID812 may include radios, amplifiers, preamplifiers, switches, and / or other network devices that support RRH810.

[0166] A building communication network may include a vertically oriented network portion (e.g., a vertical data plane) that connects network components on multiple floors. For example, network components may include control panels located on different floors, and the vertical data plane may redundantly connect the control panels together.

[0167] An example of a redundant vertically oriented network 900 is shown in Figure 9. In the example in Figure 9, control panels 901a to 901d are located on different floors of the building, and the control panels are redundantly interconnected. Specifically, control panel 901a is connected to control panels 901b and 901d, control panel 901b is connected to control panels 901a and 901c, control panel 901c is connected to control panels 901d and 901b, and control panel 901d is connected to control panels 901a and 901c. Some or all of the connections between the control panels are redundant in themselves (for example, formed from a pair of optical fibers (or other cabling medium)). The network 900 also includes a cell modem 902 that connects the network to an external cellular network. The network 900 includes redundant connections to infrastructure 904 (for example, another network, whether inside or outside the enclosure in which the network 900 is installed).

[0168] In some embodiments, the network may have numerous control panels on multiple floors of a building. Thus, a single floor may have a horizontal data plane (e.g., a network of coaxial bus lines and edge data frames) on which two or more control panels function. An example of such an arrangement is shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 10, the first floor of the building includes control panels 1001a and 1001b, coupled by a pair of lines (e.g., optical fiber), to provide redundancy. The second floor of the building includes control panels 1001c and 1001d, the third floor includes control panels 1001e and 1001f, and the fourth floor includes control panels 1001g and 1001h. Control panels 1001a-h are coupled to infrastructure 1004 (e.g., another network, whether inside or outside the enclosure where network 1000 is located). In Figure 10, a first set of control panels (e.g., including control panels 1001a, 1001c, 1001e, and 1001g) forms a first vertically oriented network with redundant connections (as shown). A second set of control panels (e.g., including control panels 1001b, 1001d, 1001f, and 1001h) forms a second vertically oriented network with redundant connections (as shown). One advantage of having vertical connections arranged in the manner of Figure 10 is that the connections between the two sets of control panels can be made within separate risers in the building.

[0169] Additional configurations of the building network infrastructure are shown in the examples in Figures 11A, 11B, and 11C. Figure 11A shows an example where control panel panels 1101a-d are connected using redundant loops. Specifically, there are two vertical links between control panels on adjacent floors, as well as two vertical links between control panels on the top floor and the bottom floor. In addition, control panel 1101a is redundantly coupled to infrastructure 1104 (for example, another network, whether inside or outside the enclosure where network 900 is located). The first floor of the building includes control panel 1101a, the second floor includes control panel 1101b, the third floor includes control panel 1101c, and the fourth floor includes control panel 1101d. Figure 11B shows an example where each floor of the building includes two control panels and there are two redundant loops in the vertical data plane. Specifically, control panel panels 1102a-d are connected together in a first redundant loop, and control panel panels 1102e-h are connected together in a second redundant loop. The first floor of the building includes control panels 1102a and 1102e, the second floor includes control panels 1102b and 1102f, the third floor includes control panels 1102c and 1102g, and the fourth floor includes control panels 1102d and 1102h. Control panels 1102a-d are redundantly connected to infrastructure 1104. Control panels 1102e-h are redundantly connected to infrastructure 1104. Control panels 1102e-h are redundantly connected to control panels 1102a-d. Figure 11C shows an example where each floor of a building contains two control panels, there is one redundant loop in the vertical data lane, and redundant loops exist in some (e.g., all) of the building's floors. Specifically, control panels 1103a-d are connected together by redundant loops in the vertical data plane. In addition, control panel pairs 1103a and 1103e, 1103b and 1103f, 1103c and 1103g, and 1103d and 1103h are connected together by their respective redundant loops in the horizontal data plane.The first floor of the building includes control panels 1103a and 1103e, the second floor includes control panels 1103b and 1103f, the third floor includes control panels 1103c and 1103g, and the fourth floor includes control panels 1103d and 1103h. Control panel 1102a is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103e and infrastructure 1104, control panel 1103b is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103f and infrastructure 1104, control panel 1103c is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103g and infrastructure 1104, and control panel 1103d is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103h and infrastructure 1104. In various embodiments, the network infrastructure supports a control system for one or more windows, such as electrochromic (e.g., colorable) windows. The control system may comprise one or more controllers operably coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. Although the disclosed embodiments describe electrochromic windows (also referred herein as “optically switchable windows,” “colorable windows,” or “smart windows”), the concepts disclosed herein may apply to other types of switchable optical devices, such as liquid crystal devices and suspended particle devices. For example, liquid crystal devices and / or suspended particle devices may be implemented instead of or in addition to electrochromic devices.

[0170] In some embodiments, "tintable" means, for example, that when a stimulus is applied, the window exhibits a change (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) in at least one optical property. The stimulus may include optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimuli. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows can be used to control lighting and / or glare conditions, for example, by regulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. One or more tintable windows can be used to control the temperature inside a building, for example, by regulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. Controlling solar energy can control the heat load imposed on the interior of a facility (e.g., a building). The control may be manual and / or automatic. The control may be used to maintain one or more required (e.g., environmental) conditions, for example, occupant comfort. The control may include reducing the energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system (hereinafter abbreviated as "HVAC"). In some cases, a tintable window may respond to one or more environmental sensors and user controls. A tintable window may be an electrochromic window (for example, it may be an electrochromic window). The window may be located from the inside to the outside of a structure (e.g., a facility, e.g., a building), but is not required. A tintable window may operate using liquid crystal devices, suspended particle devices, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices (such as microshutters), or any currently known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through the window.A window incorporating a MEMS device for coloring is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 443,353, filed on 15 May 2015, titled "MULT1-PANE WINDOWS INCLUDING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES AND ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DEVICES," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, one or more colorable windows may be located inside a building, for example, between a conference room and an entrance hall. In some cases, one or more colorable windows may be used in automobiles, trains, aircraft, and other vehicles, for example, in place of passive and / or uncolored windows.

[0171] In some embodiments, the colorable window comprises an electrochromic device (hereinafter referred to as the “EC device” (hereinafter abbreviated as ECD), or “EC”). The EC device may include at least one coating comprising at least one layer. At least one layer may include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another, for example, when a potential is applied to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) and corresponding injection of charge equilibrium electrons into the electrochromic material. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be caused, for example, by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) and corresponding injection of charge equilibrium electrons into the electrochromic material. Reversibility may be over the service life of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (e.g., significant) degradation in the reversibility of the window's coloration over one or more coloring cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition become irreversibly bonded to the electrochromic material (e.g., the induced (altered) coloration state of the window cannot revert to its original coloration state). In various EC devices, at least some (e.g., all) of the irreversibly bonded ions can be used to compensate for "hidden charges" within the material (e.g., ECD).

[0172] In some embodiments, preferred ions include cations. Examples of cations include lithium ions (Li+) and / or hydrogen ions (H+) (i.e., protons). In some other embodiments, other ions may be preferred. Cation intercalation may occur with respect to (e.g., metal) oxides. A change in the intercalation state of an ion (e.g., a cation) with respect to an oxide can induce a visible change in the coloration (e.g., color) of the oxide. For example, an oxide may transition from colorless to colored. For example, lithium ions in tungsten oxide (WO) 3-y (0 < Intercalation to y ≤ ~0.3)) can change tungsten oxide from a transparent state to a colored (e.g., blue) state. EC device coatings, such as those described herein, are placed within the visible portion of a colorable window, and as a result, the coloration of the EC device coating can be used to control the optical state of the colorable window.

[0173] Examples of electrochromic devices manufactured without the deposition of specific ion-conducting materials can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 462,725, filed 2 May 2012, entitled “ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the EC device coating may include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers can be used to improve certain optical properties, to provide moisture, and / or to provide scratch resistance. These passive layers and / or other passive layers can also function to seal the EC stack (e.g., 1220). Various layers, such as a transparent conductive layer, can be treated with anti-reflective layers and / or protective layers (e.g., oxide and / or nitride layers).

[0174] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to repeat (e.g., substantially) reversibly between a clear state and a colored state. Reversibility may be within the service life of the ECD. The service life may be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The service life may be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 5 to about 100 years, about 5 to about 50 years, or about 50 to about 100 years). When the window is in a first colored state (e.g., clear), a potential can be applied to the electrochromic stack such that the available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material to be in a colored state are mainly present at the counter electrode. When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions are transported across the ion conduction layer to the electrochromic material, causing the material to be in a second colored state (e.g., a colored state).

[0175] Furthermore, it should be understood that references to transitions between clear and colored states are non-limiting and suggest only one example among many possible electrochromic transitions. Unless otherwise specified herein, references to clear-colored transitions always imply that the corresponding device or process encompasses other optical state transitions, such as non-reflective-reflective and / or transparent-opaque. In some embodiments, the terms “clear” and “colored” refer to optically neutral states, e.g., uncolored, transparent and / or translucent states. In some embodiments, “color” or “colored” in an electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or wavelength range. The selection of appropriate electrochromic and counter electrode materials can affect the relevant optical transitions (e.g., from colored to uncolored states).

[0176] In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the materials constituting the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (e.g., in a solid state), or inorganic and solid. Since various organic materials tend to degrade over time when exposed to heat and UV light, particularly in colored building windows, inorganic materials offer the advantage of a reliable electrochromic stack that can function for extended periods. In some embodiments, solid-state materials can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and reduced leakage problems, as liquid-state materials sometimes do. One or more layers within the stack may contain some (e.g., measurable) organic material. The ECD or any part thereof (e.g., one or more layers) may contain little to no measurable organic matter. The ECD or any part thereof (e.g., one or more layers) may contain one or more liquids present in small amounts. Small amounts may be up to approximately 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid materials can be deposited (or formed in other ways) using one or more processes that utilize liquid components, such as sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0177] In some embodiments, the IGU includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, the IGU may include two glass panes. At least one substrate of the IGU may include an electrochromic device disposed on top of it. One or more panes of the IGU may have a separator disposed between them. The IGU may be a sealed configuration and have, for example, an internal area isolated from the surrounding environment. A “window assembly” may include the IGU. A “window assembly” may include a (e.g., standalone) laminate. A “window assembly” may include, for example, one or more electrical leads for connecting the IGU and / or the laminate. The electrical leads may operably couple (e.g., connect) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, a switch, etc., and may include a frame supporting the IGU or laminate. A window assembly may include a window controller and / or components of the window controller (e.g., a dock).

[0178] In some embodiments, the first pane, the second pane, and / or IGU are rectangular parallelepipeds. In some implementations, other (e.g., geometric) shapes are possible. The shapes of the first pane, the second pane, and / or IGU may include circular, elliptical, triangular, curved, convex, and / or concave shapes. The first pane, the second pane, and / or IGU may include curved sections. The first pane, the second pane, and / or IGU may not include curved sections. The first pane, the second pane, and / or IGU may include one or more straight edge portions. The basic length scale of the pane may be at least 1 foot (ft), 2 ft, 3 ft, 5 ft, 10 ft, 20 ft, 30 ft, 40 ft, 50 ft, 60 ft, 80 ft, or 100 ft. The FLS of a pane may be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., approximately 1 ft to approximately 100 ft, approximately 1 ft to approximately 60 ft, or approximately 50 ft to approximately 100 ft). The basic length scale (hereinafter abbreviated as "FLS") may include length, width, or diameter of the boundary circle. For example, the length "L" of the first and / or second pane may range from at least approximately 20 inches (in.) to a maximum of approximately 10 feet (ft.). For example, the width "W" of the first and / or second pane may range from approximately 20 in. to approximately 10 ft. The thickness of the pane may be at least approximately 0.1 millimeters (mm), 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, or 50 mm. The thickness of the pane can be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., approximately 0.1 mm to approximately 50 mm, approximately 0.1 mm to approximately 1 mm, approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 20 mm, or approximately 10 mm to approximately 50 mm). For example, the thickness "T" of the first and / or second pane may range from approximately 0.3 mm to approximately 10 mm. Based at least in part on the needs of a particular user, manager, administrator, builder, designer, and / or owner, other FLS (e.g., length or width) or thickness may both be smaller or larger (e.g., as required). In cases where the substrate thickness T is less than approximately 3 mm (e.g., a thin substrate), the substrate may be laminated with, for example, an additional substrate. The additional substrate may be thicker. The additional substrate may protect the thin substrate.Furthermore, while an IGU may include two panes, in some embodiments, an IGU may include three or more panes. In some embodiments, one or more of the panes may have a laminated structure of two, three, or more layers (i.e., subpanes).

[0179] In some embodiments, the first and second panes are separated from each other by at least one spacer to form an internal volume. The spacer(s) may comprise a frame structure. In some embodiments, the internal volume is filled with a gas (e.g., argon (Ar)). In some embodiments, the internal volume may be filled with another gas, such as another noble gas (e.g., krypton (Kr), xenon (Xn)), another (non-noble) gas, a non-reactive gas (e.g., nitrogen), or a mixture of gases (e.g., air). Filling the internal volume with gas can reduce conductive heat transfer through the IGU. The gas may have low thermal conductivity. The gas may improve sound insulation. The gas may have a higher atomic weight than the gas in the ambient environment (e.g., air). In some other embodiments, the gas may be removed from the internal volume to make it empty. The internal volume may contain a lower pressure compared to the ambient pressure. The internal volume may have a different gas composition and / or pressure than the ambient environment (e.g., outside the IGU). One or more spacers may (at least partially) determine the height of the internal volume (e.g., 1308), that is, the range of the distance between the first pane and the second pane. The FLS of the spacers may be at least about 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or 40 mm. The FLS of the spacers may have any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 4 mm to about 25 mm, about 20 mm to about 40 mm, or about 4 mm to about 40 mm). In some embodiments, the distance between the first pane and the second pane is in the range of about 6 mm to about 30 mm. The width of the spacers (e.g., "D" in Figure 2A) may be in the range of about 5 mm to about 25 mm (however, other widths are also possible and may be desirable).

[0180] At least one spacer may be a frame structure formed around multiple (e.g., all) sides of the IGU (e.g., the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the IGU). The spacer may be formed of foam and / or plastic material. The spacer may contain polymers. The spacer may contain elemental metals or metal alloys. The spacer may comprise a tubular structure or a channel structure. The spacer may have at least three sides. The spacer may have at least two sides (e.g., configurations for sealing each light). The spacer may have at least one side configured to support and / or separate the lights. The spacer may have at least one side configured to support a surface to which a sealing material is applied (e.g., between the spacer and the light). A first primary seal may adhere to the spacer. The first primary seal may seal the spacer and the second surface (e.g., S2 in Figure 13) of the first pane (e.g., 1304). A second primary seal can bond and / or seal the spacer to the first surface of the second pane (e.g., S3 in Figure 13). In some embodiments, the primary seal may be formed of an adhesive sealant, such as polyisobutylene (PIB). In some embodiments, the IGU includes a secondary seal that seals (e.g., seals) the boundary around the IGU. The secondary seal may be positioned outside the spacer. The spacer may be fitted at a distance from the edges of the first and second panes, which may be, for example, in the range of about 4 mm to about 8 mm (however, other distances are possible and may be desirable). In some embodiments, the secondary seal may include an adhesive sealant, such as a polymer material. The spacer material may be water-resistant. The spacer material may provide structural support to the assembly. The spacer material may include silicone, polyurethane, Teflon, or a structural sealant that forms a watertight seal.

[0181] In some embodiments, one or more controllers are operably coupled to a window. One or more controllers may be associated with (for example, operably coupled to) one or more colorable windows. One or more controllers may be configured to control the optical state of a window, for example, by applying a stimulus to the window. The stimulus may include, for example, a voltage and / or current to the coating of an EC device. One or more window controllers may have various sizes, forms, and positions with respect to the optically switchable windows they control. At least one controller may be mounted on the light of the IGU or its laminate. At least one controller may be disposed, for example, within a frame housing the IGU or laminate. At least one controller may be disposed in a location separate from the IGU (or its laminate). A colorable window may include one, two, three or more electrochromic panes (electrochromic devices on a transparent substrate). Also, individual panes of an electrochromic window may include, for example, an electrochromic coating having independently colorable zones. At least one controller can control at least two (e.g., all) of the electrochromic coatings associated with a window(s), regardless of whether the electrochromic coatings are monolithic or partitioned.

[0182] In some embodiments, the window controller is located in close proximity to the tintable window (e.g., if not directly attached to the tintable window, IGU, or frame). For example, the window controller may be adjacent to the window, on one of the window's light surfaces, within the wall adjacent to the window (e.g., a wall having a boundary with and / or contacting the window), or within the frame of the window assembly. In some embodiments, the window controller is a situation controller. In some embodiments, the situation controller is part of the window assembly (e.g., including an IGU or laminate). The situation controller may not need to coincide with the electrochromic window. The situation controller may be installed in-situ (e.g., at a target location). The situation controller may be transported from the factory with the window (e.g., as part of the assembly). The situation controller may be installed on the window frame of the window assembly and / or as part of the IGU (and / or laminate) assembly. For example, the controller may be mounted in or between panes of the IGU. For example, the controller may be positioned on a pane of a laminate. The controller may be located in the visible portion of the IGU. At least a portion of the controller may be (e.g., substantially) transparent to the average human eye. Further examples of controllers are provided in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 951,410, “SELF CONTAINED EC IGU,” filed November 14, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A local controller may be provided (i) as two or more parts (e.g., a portion), (ii) together with at least a portion (e.g., including a memory component that stores information about the associated electrochromic window), (iii) as part of a window assembly, and / or (iv) as at least one portion separately. The controller may be configured to mate with at least a portion of the window assembly, IGU, and / or laminate. The controller may be an assembly of interconnection portions. The interconnection portions do not have to be housed in a single housing.The interconnects of the controller (hte controller) may be spaced apart (for example, in the secondary seal of the IGU). The controller may constitute a miniature unit. The miniature unit may reside within a single housing. The miniature unit may reside within two or more separate components that integrate (e.g., a dock and a housing assembly). The controller may be located in an area that is visible or invisible to the occupant of the enclosure in which the controller resides.

[0183] In one embodiment, the window controller is (i) incorporated into the IGU and / or (ii) the window frame, or incorporated on top of it. The controller may be incorporated before, during, and / or after installation of the colorable window at its target location. The controller (for example, of a window) may be located within the same facility (e.g., a building) as the window. For example, the controller may be incorporated into or on the IGU and / or window frame before leaving the manufacturing facility for the window and / or the controller. In one embodiment, the controller is incorporated into the IGU (e.g., substantially within the secondary seal). In another embodiment, the controller is incorporated partially, substantially, or entirely within the perimeter defined by the primary seal, within or on the IGU. The perimeter may be between the sealing separator and the substrate (e.g., the light).

[0184] The controller may be part of the IGU and / or window assembly. For example, the controller may move with the IGU or window unit. If the controller is part of the IGU assembly, the IGU may hold the controller's logic and features.

[0185] In some embodiments, one or more characteristics of an electrochromic device(s) change over time (e.g., due to degradation). Characterization functions can be used, for example, to update one or more control parameters used to indicate changes in the coloration state of an IGU. When installed in an electrochromic window unit, the controller's logic and features can be used (at least partially) to calibrate one or more control parameters to match the intended installation. When installed, the control parameters can be recalibrated to match one or more performance characteristics of an electrochromic device(s).

[0186] In other embodiments, the controller is not pre-associated with the window. For example, a dock component having a general-purpose component for any electrochromic window may be associated with at least one (e.g., each) window in the factory (e.g., where the controller and / or window structure is manufactured). After and / or during installation of the window (or at the target location (e.g., site)), a second component of the controller may be combined with the dock component to complete, for example, the electrochromic window controller assembly. The dock component may include circuitry. The dock component may include a chip. The chip may be programmed in the factory. The programming of the chip may take into account (e.g., may take into account) one or more physical characteristics and / or parameters of the particular window to which the dock is attached. For example, a surface that faces the interior of a building after installation may be called surface 4 or "S4". The second component (referred to as the "carrier", "casing", or "housing") may be mated with the dock. Once the second component is mated with the dock, it may be powered. A second component may be configured to read the chip. The second component may be configured to power the window according to, for example, one or more specific characteristics and / or parameters stored in the chip. A shipped window may require one or more relevant characteristics and / or parameters (e.g., these only) stored in the chip. The chip may be integrated with the window. Higher performance circuits (e.g., compared to the chip) and / or components may be later integrated with the controller window assembly. For example, the higher performance circuits (the more sophisticated circuitry) and / or components may (i) be shipped separately from the window, dock, and / or the second component, and / or (ii) be installed by the window manufacturer after (a) the glassworker has installed the window and / or (b) the window manufacturer has commissioned it. In some embodiments, the chip is contained in a wire or wire connector (also referred to herein as a "pigtail"). The wire or wire connector may be attached to the window controller.

[0187] The term “outboard” is understood herein to refer to a location closer to the external environment, and the term “inboard” is understood herein to refer to a location closer to the interior of the building. For example, in the case of an IGU with two panes, the pane located closer to the external environment is called the outboard pane or outer pane, while the pane located closer to the interior of the building is called the inboard pane or inner pane. As illustrated with the example shown in Figure 13, the different surfaces of an IGU may be called S1, S2, S3, and S4 (assuming an IGU with two panes). S1 refers to the surface facing outwards from the outboard light (e.g., a surface that a person standing outside can physically touch). S2 refers to the surface facing inwards from the outboard light. S3 refers to the surface facing outwards from the inboard light. S4 refers to the surface facing inwards from the inboard light (e.g., a surface that a person standing inside the building can physically touch). In other words, the surfaces are labeled S1 to S4, counting inwards from the outermost surface of the IGU. This tendency is maintained when the IGU includes three panes. In certain embodiments using two panes, an electrochromic device (or other optically switchable device) is located on S3. In certain embodiments, one or more of the surfaces have a structure for blocking the transmission of electromagnetic radiation. The IGU may include a shield stack of multiple conductive layers on its inner surface, such as S3 in Figure 13. Additional embodiments of the shield stack structure are presented in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 709,339, filed September 19, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0188] Examples of window controllers and their features are presented in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,248, filed April 17, 2012, titled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,251, filed April 17, 2012, titled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 334,835, filed October 26, 2016, titled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES," and International Application PCT / US17 / 20805, filed March 3, 2017, titled "METHOD OF COMMISSIONING ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Figure 12 shows examples of schematic cross-sectional views of electrochromic devices 1200 according to several embodiments shown in Figure 12. The EC device coating is attached to a substrate 1202, a transparent conductive layer (TCL) 1204, an electrochromic layer (EC) 1206 (sometimes called a cathode coloring layer or cathode tinting layer), an ion conductive layer or region (IC) 1208, a counter electrode layer (CE) 1210 (sometimes called an anode coloring layer or anode tinting layer), and a second TCL 1214. The elements 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, and 1214 are collectively called an electrochromic stack 1220. A voltage source 1216, operable to apply a potential across the electrochromic stack 1220, brings about a transition of the electrochromic coating, for example, from a clear state to a colored state. In other embodiments, the order of the layers is reversed with respect to the substrate. That is, these layers are arranged in the following order: substrate, TCL, counter electrode layer, ion conducting layer, electrochromic material layer, TCL. In various embodiments, the ion conducting region (e.g., 1208) may be formed from a portion of the EC layer (e.g., 1206) and / or from a portion of the CE layer (e.g., 1210).In such embodiments, the electrochromic stack (e.g., 1220) may be deposited to include a cathode-colored electrochromic material (EC layer) in direct physical contact with an anode-colored counter electrode material (CE layer). Ion-conducting regions (sometimes called interface regions, or substantially electronically insulating ion-conducting layers or regions) may be formed in this case, for example, through heating and / or other processing steps, at the location where the EC layer and the CE layer meet. Examples of electrochromic devices (such as those manufactured without the deposition of specific ion-conducting materials) can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 462,725, “ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES,” filed 2 May 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the EC device coating may include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers may be used to improve certain optical properties, to provide moisture, and / or to provide scratch resistance. These passive layers or other passive layers may function to seal the EC stack 1220. Various layers, such as transparent conductive layers (1204 and 1214, etc.), can be treated with anti-reflective layers and / or protective layers (e.g., oxide and / or nitride layers).

[0189] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to repeat (e.g., substantially) reversibly between a clear state and a colored state. Reversibility may be within the service life of the ECD. The service life may be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The service life may be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 5 to about 100 years, about 5 to about 50 years, or about 50 to about 100 years). When the window is in the first colored state (e.g., clear), a potential can be applied to the electrochromic stack (e.g., 1220) such that the available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material (e.g., 1206) to be in a colored state are mainly present at the counter electrode (e.g., 1210). When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions are transported across the ion-conducting layer (e.g., 1208) to the electrochromic material, potentially causing the material to enter a second colored state (e.g., a colored state).

[0190] Furthermore, it should be understood that references to transitions between clear and colored states are non-limiting and suggest only one example among many possible electrochromic transitions. Unless otherwise specified herein, references to clear-colored transitions always imply that the corresponding device or process encompasses other optical state transitions, such as non-reflective-reflective and / or transparent-opaque. In some embodiments, the terms “clear” and “colored” refer to optically neutral states, e.g., uncolored, transparent and / or translucent states. In some embodiments, “color” or “colored” in an electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or wavelength range. The selection of appropriate electrochromic and counter electrode materials can affect the relevant optical transitions (e.g., from colored to uncolored states).

[0191] In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the materials constituting the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (e.g., in a solid state), or inorganic and solid. Since various organic materials tend to degrade over time when exposed to heat and UV light, particularly in colored building windows, inorganic materials offer the advantage of a reliable electrochromic stack that can function for extended periods. In some embodiments, solid-state materials can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and reduced leakage problems, as liquid-state materials sometimes do. One or more layers within the stack may contain some (e.g., measurable) organic material. The ECD or any part thereof (e.g., one or more layers) may contain little to no measurable organic matter. The ECD or any part thereof (e.g., one or more layers) may contain one or more liquids present in small amounts. Small amounts may be up to approximately 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid materials can be deposited (or formed in other ways) using one or more processes that utilize liquid components, such as sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0192] Figure 13 shows examples of cross-sectional views of tintable windows embodied in an insulated glass unit ("IGU") 1300 according to several embodiments. The terms "IGU," "tintable window," and "optically switchable window" may be used interchangeably herein. When provided for installation within a building, it may be desirable to have an IGU that serves as a base structure for holding an electrochromic pane (also called "light"). The IGU light may be a single-substrate or multi-substrate configuration. The light may include, for example, a laminate of two substrates. An IGU (e.g., having a double or triple-pane configuration) can offer more advantages than a single-pane configuration. For example, a multi-pane configuration can offer enhanced thermal insulation, soundproofing, environmental protection, and / or durability compared to a single-pane configuration. A multi-pane configuration can enhance ECD protection. For example, an electrochromic film (and associated layers and conductive interconnects) may be formed on the inner surface of a multi-pane IGU and protected by inert gas filling in the internal volume of the IGU (e.g., 1308). Inert gas filling can provide the IGU with at least some degree of (thermal) insulation. Electrochromic IGUs may have thermal insulation properties through a colorable coating that absorbs (and / or reflects) heat and light.

[0193] In some embodiments, the "IGU" includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, the IGU may include two glass panes. At least one substrate of the IGU may include an electrochromic device disposed on it. One or more panes of the IGU may have a separator disposed between them. The IGU may be a sealed configuration and have, for example, an internal area isolated from the surrounding environment. The "window assembly" may include the IGU. The "window assembly" may include a (e.g., standalone) laminate. The "window assembly" may include, for example, one or more wires for connecting the IGU and / or the laminate. The wires may operably couple (e.g., connect) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, a switch, etc., and may include a frame supporting the IGU or laminate. The window assembly may include a local controller (e.g., a window controller) and / or components of the local controller (e.g., a dock).

[0194] Figure 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of the IGU 1300, which includes a first pane 1304 having a first surface S1 and a second surface S2. In some embodiments, the first surface S1 of the first pane 1304 faces an external environment, such as outdoors or the external environment. The IGU 1300 also includes a second pane 1306 having a first surface S3 and a second surface S4. In some embodiments, the second surface (e.g., S4) of the second pane (e.g., 1306) faces a home, building, vehicle or its components (e.g., an enclosure within it, such as a room). In some embodiments, the first and second panes (e.g., 1304 and 1306) are transparent or translucent (e.g., at least with respect to visible spectrum light). For example, each of the panes (e.g., 1304 and 1306) may be formed of a glass material. The glass material may include architectural glass and / or shatterproof glass. The glass may include silicon dioxide (SOx). The glass may include soda-lime glass or float glass. The glass may contain at least about 75% silica (SiO2). The glass may contain oxides such as Na2O or Cao. The glass may contain alkali or alkaline earth oxides. The glass may contain one or more additives. The first and / or second pane may contain any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Other materials that may be included in the first and / or second pane (e.g., substrate) are plastics, semi-plastics and / or thermoplastic materials, such as poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene, polycarbonate, allyl diglycol, carbonate, SAN (styrene acrylonitrile copolymer), poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyester, and / or polyamide. The first and / or second pane may contain a mirror material (e.g., silver). In some embodiments, the first and / or second pane can be reinforced. Strengthening methods may include tempering, heating, and / or chemical strengthening.

[0195] Figure 14 is a schematic example of a computer system 1400 programmed to perform one or more operations of any of the methods provided herein, or otherwise configured. The computer system can control (e.g., instruct, monitor, and / or adjust) various features of the methods, apparatus, and systems disclosed herein, such as controlling heating, cooling, lighting, and / or ventilation of an enclosure, or a combination thereof. The computer system can be part of or communicate with any sensor or sensor ensemble disclosed herein. The computer can be coupled to one or more mechanisms and / or any part thereof disclosed herein. For example, the computer can be coupled to one or more sensors, valves, switches, lights, windows (e.g., IGUs), motors, pumps, optical components, or any combination thereof.

[0196] A computer system may include a processing unit (e.g., 1406) (also used herein as “processor,” “computer,” and “computer processor”). The computer system may also include memory or memory locations (e.g., 1402) (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), an electronic storage unit (e.g., 1404) (e.g., a hard disk), a communication interface (e.g., 1403) (e.g., a network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices (e.g., 1405) such as a cache, other memory, data storage, and / or an electronic display adapter. In the example shown in Figure 14, memory 1402, storage unit 1404, interface 1403, and peripheral device 1405 communicate with the processing unit 1406 via a communication bus (solid line), such as a motherboard. The storage unit may be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system may be operably coupled to a computer network ("network") (e.g., 1401) with the help of a communication interface. The network may be the Internet, the Internet and / or an extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet communicating with the Internet. In some cases, the network may be a telecommunications network and / or a data network. The network may include one or more computer servers that enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network may, in some cases with the help of a computer system, implement a peer-to-peer network, which may allow devices coupled to a computer system to behave as clients or servers.

[0197] A processing unit may execute a set of machine-readable instructions that can be embodied in a program or software. Instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as memory 1402. Instructions may be directed to a processing unit, which may then be programmed or otherwise configured to implement the method of this disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the processing unit may include fetching, decoding, executing, and writing back. The processing unit may interpret and / or execute instructions. A processor may include a microprocessor, a data processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical processing unit (GPU), a system-on-chip (SOC), a coprocessor, a network processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific instruction-set processor (ASIP), a controller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a chipset, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof. The processing unit may be part of a circuit such as an integrated circuit. One or more other electronic components of system 1400 may be included in the circuit.

[0198] A storage unit can store files such as drivers, libraries, and saved programs. A storage unit can also store user data (e.g., user settings and user programs). In some cases, a computer system may include one or more additional data storage units located outside the computer system, such as on a remote server communicating with the computer system via an intranet or the internet.

[0199] A computer system can communicate with one or more remote computer systems over a network. For example, a computer system can communicate with a user's (e.g., operator's) remote computer system. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PCs), slate or tablet PCs (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, smartphones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled devices, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. A user (e.g., a client) can access the computer system over the network.

[0200] The methods described herein may be implemented by machine-executable code (e.g., a computer processor) stored in an electronic storage location of a computer system, such as memory 1402 or an electronic storage unit 1404. The machine-executable or machine-readable code may be provided in the form of software. During use, the processor 1406 can execute the code. In some cases, the code may be retrieved from the storage unit and stored in memory in preparation for access by the processor. In some circumstances, the electronic storage unit may be omitted, and machine-executable instructions are stored in memory.

[0201] The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use by machines with processors adapted to run the code, or it can be compiled at runtime. The code can be provided in a programming language that can be selected to allow the code to run either pre-compiled or compiled.

[0202] In some embodiments, the processor comprises code, which may be program instructions. Program instructions can cause at least one processor (e.g., a computer) to instruct a feedforward and / or feedback control loop. In some embodiments, program instructions can cause at least one processor to instruct a closed-loop and / or open-loop control scheme. The control may be based at least in part on one or more sensor readings (e.g., sensor data). One controller can instruct multiple operations. At least two operations can be instructed by different controllers. In some embodiments, one different controller can instruct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, multiple different controllers can instruct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, non-transient computer-readable media can cause each different computer to instruct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, different non-temporary computer-readable media cause different computers to instruct each other to perform at least two of the operations (a), (b), and (c). The controller and / or computer-readable media may instruct any of the devices or components disclosed herein. The controller and / or computer-readable media may instruct any operation of the methods disclosed herein.

[0203] In some embodiments, at least one sensor is operably coupled to a control system (e.g., a computer control system). Sensors may include optical sensors, acoustic sensors, vibration sensors, chemical sensors, electrical sensors, magnetic sensors, fluidity sensors, motion sensors, velocity sensors, position sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, density sensors, distance sensors, or proximity sensors. Sensors may include temperature sensors, weight sensors, material (e.g., powder) level sensors, measuring sensors, gas sensors, or humidity sensors. Measuring sensors may include measuring sensors (e.g., height, length, width, angle, and / or volume). Measuring sensors may include magnetic, acceleration, orientation, or optical sensors. Sensors may transmit and / or receive sound (e.g., echo), magnetic, electronic, or electromagnetic signals. Electromagnetic signals may include visible, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasonic, radio, or microwave signals. Gas sensors may sense any of the gases described herein. Distance sensors may be a type of measuring sensor. Distance sensors may include optical sensors or capacitive sensors. Temperature sensors may include bolometers, bimetallic plates, calorimeters, exhaust thermometers, flame detectors, Gurdon gauges, Goray cells, heat flux sensors, infrared radiation thermometers, microbolometers, microwave radiometers, pure radiometers, quartz thermometers, resistance temperature detectors, resistance thermometers, silicon bandgap temperature sensors, special sensor microwave / imagers, temperature gauges, thermistors, thermocouples, thermometers (e.g., resistance thermometers), or pyrometers. Temperature sensors may include optical sensors. Temperature sensors may include image processing. Temperature sensors may include cameras (e.g., IR cameras, visible light cameras, CCD cameras). Sensors may include sensor arrays (e.g., IR sensor arrays). Cameras and / or sensor arrays may include at least 2000, 3000, or 4000 pixels on their basic length scale. Sensors may be configured to detect radio frequencies. The device may include geolocation devices (e.g., devices including Bluetooth, GPS, and / or UWV geolocation (gelo-location) technology). The sensor may include an optical sensor.Pressure sensors may include recording barometers, barometers, supercharger pressure gauges, Bourdon tube vacuum gauges, thermal filament ionization vacuum gauges, ionization vacuum gauges, McLeod vacuum gauges, vibrating U-tubes, permanent downhole pressure gauges, pressure gauges, Pirani vacuum gauges, pressure sensors, pressure gauges, tactile sensors, pressure gauges, or time pressure gauges. Position sensors may include growth meters, capacitive displacement sensors, capacity sensors, freefall sensors, gravimeters, gyro sensors, shock sensors, inclinometers, integrated circuit piezoelectric sensors, laser rangefinders, laser surface velocity meters, LiDAR, linear encoders, linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs), liquid volume inclinometers, odometers, photoelectron sensors, piezoelectric accelerometers, speed sensors, rotary encoders, rotary variable differential transformers, selsyns, shock detectors, shock data loggers, tilt sensors, tachometers, ultrasonic thickness gauges, variable magnetoresistive sensors, or speed receivers. Optical sensors may include charge-coupled elements, colorimeters, contact image sensors, electro-optic sensors, infrared sensors, motion inductance detectors, light-emitting diodes (e.g., photo sensors), optically addressable potentiometers, Nichols radiometers, optical fiber sensors, optical position sensors, photodetectors, photodiodes, photomultiplier tubes, phototransistors, photoelectric sensors, photoionization detectors, photomultiplier tubes, photoresistors, photoelectric switches, phototubes, scintillation counters, Shack-Hartmann detectors, single-photon avalanche diodes, superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, superconducting transition edge sensors, visible light quantum counters, or wavefront sensors. One or more sensors may be connected to a control system (e.g., to a processor, to a computer).

[0204] In some embodiments, the target device and / or (local) network are configured for wireless communication. The target device may include a transceiver. In some embodiments, the transceiver and / or local network may be configured to transmit and receive one or more signals using a personal area network (PAN) standard, such as IEEE 802.15.4. In some embodiments, the signals may include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or EnOcean signals (e.g., wideband). One or more signals may include ultra-wideband (UWB) signals (e.g., having frequencies in the range of about 2.4 to about 10.6 gigahertz (GHz), or about 7.5 GHz to about 10.6 GHz). The ultra-wideband signals may have a relative bandwidth of more than about 20%. The ultra-wideband signals may have a bandwidth of more than about 500 megahertz (MHz). One or more signals may use very low energy levels for short distances. The signal (e.g., having a radio frequency) may use a spectrum that can penetrate solid structures (e.g., walls, doors, and / or windows). Low power may be up to 25 milliwatts (mW), 50 mW, 75 mW, or 100 mW. Low power may be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., 25 mW to 100 mW, 25 mW to 50 mW, or 75 mW to 100 mW). In some embodiments, the local network (e.g., including one or more stationary sensors and / or stationary transceivers) is configured to operably couple to a control system configured to (I) locate the temporary transceiver's position in real time, (II) locate the temporary transceiver's position with an accuracy of about 20, 10, or 5 centimeters, or greater, (I) transmit and sense ultra-wideband radio waves, and / or (IV) control a facility where the local network of one or more stationary sensors and / or stationary transceivers is located.

[0205] In some embodiments, the local network incorporates and / or facilitates geolocation technologies (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS), Bluetooth (BLE), ultra-wideband (UWB), and / or dead reckoning) using, for example, a microlocation chip. The geolocation technology can facilitate the determination of the location of a signal source (e.g., the location of a temporary tag including a transceiver that facilitates geolocation technology) with an accuracy of at least 100 centimeters (cm), 75 cm, 50 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 10 cm, or 5 cm. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation of the signal includes ultra-wideband (UWB) radio waves, ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves used in the Global Positioning System (GPS). In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation includes electromagnetic waves with frequencies of at least about 300 MHz, 500 MHz, or 1200 MHz. In some embodiments, the signal includes location and / or time data. In some embodiments, the tag utilizes Bluetooth, UWB, UHF, and / or Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. In some embodiments, the signal has a spatial capacity of at least about 10¹³ bits / second per square meter (bits / s / m²). 2 ) has.

[0206] In some embodiments, pulse-based ultra-wideband (UWB) technology (e.g., ECMA-368, or ECMA-369) is a wireless technology for transmitting large amounts of data over short distances (e.g., up to about 300 feet('), 250', 230', 200', or 150') at low power (e.g., less than about 1 millivolt(mW), 0.75 mW, 0.5 mW, or 0.25 mW). UWB signals can occupy at least about 30%, 20%, or 10% of a bandwidth spectrum and / or its center frequency of at least about 750 MHz, 500 MHz, or 250 MHz. UWB signals can be transmitted by one or more pulses. The components broadcast digital signal pulses that can be (e.g., precisely) timed over a carrier signal across several frequency channels simultaneously. Information can be transmitted, for example, by modulating the timing and / or positioning of the signals (e.g., pulses). Signal information can be transmitted by encoding the polarity and amplitude of a signal (e.g., a pulse) and / or by using orthogonal signals (e.g., pulses). UWB signals can be a low-power information transmission protocol. UWB technology can be used for location applications (e.g., indoors). The broad UWB spectrum includes low frequencies with long wavelengths, which allows UWB signals to penetrate various materials such as various building fixtures (e.g., walls). A broad frequency range, such as low penetration frequencies, can reduce the chance of multipath propagation errors (although not theoretically bound, because some wavelengths may have line-of-sight trajectories). UWB communication signals (e.g., pulses) can be short (e.g., up to about 70 cm, 60 cm, or 50 cm for pulses with a width of about 600 MHz, 500 MHz, or 400 MHz, or up to about 20 cm, 23 cm, 25 cm, or 30 cm for pulses with a bandwidth of about 1 GHz, 1.2 GHz, 1.3 GHz, or 1.5 GHz). Short communication signals (e.g., pulses) can reduce the possibility that reflected signals (e.g., pulses) may overlap with the original signal (e.g., pulses).

[0207] In certain embodiments, a building network infrastructure has a vertical data plane (between building floors) and a horizontal data plane (within a single floor or multiple adjacent floors). The horizontal and vertical data planes may have at least one similar data carrying capacity. The horizontal and vertical data planes may have at least one similar type of network components. In other cases, these two data planes have different data carrying capacities. In some cases, the horizontal and vertical data planes have the same (or similar) data carrying capacity and / or types of network components. In other cases, the vertical and horizontal data planes have at least one (e.g., all) different data carrying capacities and / or network components. For example, the vertical data plane may include network components for high-speed communication (e.g., data transmission) speed and / or bandwidth. Faster communication speeds may be at least approximately 1 gigabit / second (Gbit / s), 10 Gbit / s, 50 Gbit / s, 100 Gbit / s, 250 Gbit / s, 500 Gbit / s, 750 Gbit / s, 1 terabit / second (Tbit / s), or 1.125 Tbit / s. Faster communication speeds may be any speed between the aforementioned speeds (e.g., approximately 1 Gbit / s to approximately 1.125 Tbit / s, approximately 1 Gbit / s to approximately 500 Gbit / s, or approximately 250 Gbit / s to approximately 1.125 Tbit / s).

[0208] The description of Figures 15-18 presents network topologies that may replace topologies presented in some other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the network topologies of Figures 15-18 may, in some cases, replace linear bus topologies. The network topologies described with respect to Figures 15-18 may use control components such that the control panel may have functions and / or design elements similar to, and / or overlapping with, those described in other embodiments disclosed herein. The data carried and / or data protocols used in the topologies of Figures 15-18 may be replaced or supplemented by the data and / or data protocols described in other embodiments disclosed herein. The data carried and / or data protocols used in the topologies of Figures 15-18 may be carried within the frequency range described in other embodiments disclosed herein. Insofar as conductive data carrier lines (e.g., coaxial or twisted (e.g., paired) cables) are used in the network topologies presented in Figures 15-18, vertical and / or horizontal data may be configured in certain embodiments so that the conductive data carrier lines can transmit power to end devices.

[0209] Different physical network topologies can be used to supply power and / or communication data to building devices in a horizontal data plane (e.g., on a given floor of a building, or on multiple (e.g., consecutive) floors). For example, Figure 15 shows three possible physical network topologies A, B, and C for providing data communication between a control panel 1 and building devices 2 located on the perimeter of a floor 1503 of the building. Dashed lines indicate (e.g., high-speed) data communication paths provided by fiber optic cables.

[0210] Network topology A has a star configuration in which each building device 2 is directly connected to control panel 1 by a dedicated (e.g., fiber optic cable) link. Network topology A may be easy to design and implement (e.g., requiring minimal labor and / or cost). Network A allows for easy addition of new building devices to the network. However, a single central control panel may present a single point of failure in the network. If control panel 1 fails, data communication to all building devices 2 on the floor may be affected. Furthermore, the amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cabling) required for the network increases linearly with the number of building devices 2.

[0211] Network topology B has a distributed star (or tree) configuration in which building devices 2 are connected to a central control panel 1 by intermediate control panels 1', and each intermediate control panel 1' is associated with multiple building devices 2. Network topology B can reduce the amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optics or other cables) compared to topology A, which is necessary to provide data communication to each building device 2 in the network. The amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optics or other cables) required for network B increases linearly as more devices are added to the network, but the length of wiring required for each additional device in topology B is less than the length required in topology A. Network topology B incorporates more control panels than network topology A to increase the level of physical redundancy to some extent, but the central control panel 1 presents a single point of failure in the network.

[0212] Network topology C has a linear configuration in which device 2 is connected to the central control panel 1 via a linear (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) bus. Compared to network topology A, network topology C reduces the amount of wiring required to connect each device 2 to the control panel 1.

[0213] In various embodiments, a ring topology is used for data communication lines and / or power lines on building floors. In some cases, wiring, control panels, radios, antennas, and other network components associated with the ring are located inside and / or on the building's exterior structure (i.e., exterior). Similarly, at least some (e.g., all) of the network components of other network topologies described herein may be arranged on the exterior of an enclosure (e.g., a building). The building's exterior may include various structures that function as the building's exterior structure. The building's exterior may include fixtures (e.g., walls). Examples include the building's exterior walls, exterior windows, and optionally optically switchable windows, facades, window framing structures, etc. In various embodiments, the building's exterior may include mullions, transoms, and / or other structures that can provide internal passages for network wiring and / or support surfaces for mounting control panels or other network devices.

[0214] Network and / or power distribution components installed on the exterior of a building may provide data communication and / or power distribution functions, such as telecommunications, computing platforms, wired or wireless power for the building, and / or other attributes described herein.

[0215] In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the communication and / or power distribution components are installed during the building construction process (e.g., before creating interior rooms, installing exterior windows, or installing IT infrastructure). In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the communication and / or power distribution components are installed after the building construction process is completed. In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the communication and / or power distribution components are installed while the building is occupied. In some cases, at least some of the communication and / or power distribution components are available to construction personnel to facilitate construction and installation work.

[0216] In some cases, communication and / or power distribution systems (e.g., network systems) initially installed on the exterior of a building are not configured to control some or all of the building devices, such as sensors, radiators, and / or colorable (e.g., optically switchable) windows. The network system (e.g., controllers operably coupled thereto) may be configured to control such devices at a later stage. As an example, one vendor may install some or all of the communication and power distribution infrastructure on the exterior of a building, while a second vendor may provide sensing units and / or optically switchable windows that are attached to and ultimately controlled by the infrastructure.

[0217] Figure 16A shows a schematic plan view of the physical network topology of a floor 1600 of a building according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The floor network includes distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606, which are connected in series with each other by segments of a first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) 1607, 1608, 1609, 1610, 1611, and 1612 to form a first primary wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) ring. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 forms a node within the primary ring. The primary ring may extend around adjacent floors on the perimeter of the floor. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 is also connected to corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network branches 1601', 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606'. Each second (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network branch extends along each portion of the perimeter of the building floor. As shown in the figure, a given control panel may include two or more second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) branches, but in the figure, each of those branches is not numbered. The first and second wirings may be of different wiring types. The first and second wirings may be (e.g., substantially) the same wiring type.

[0218] An exemplary second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network branch 1601' is shown in detail in Figure 16B. Network branch 1601' includes branching devices 1613, 1614, 1615, 1616, and 1617 that are coupled to second linear wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) branch lines 1618 and 1619 by corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) drop lines 1613', 1614', 1615', 1616', and 1617'. Drop lines 1613', 1614', 1615', 1616', and 1617' may be connected to second linear wiring branch lines 1618 and 1619 by taps 1623, 1624, 1625, 1626, and 1627. Device controllers (e.g., local controllers) 1620, 1621, and 1622 are installed on drop lines 1613', 1615', and 1617'. Branch targets (e.g., devices) 1613, 1614, 1615, 1616, and 1617 may be any type of building device requiring power and / or data supply. For example, branch devices may include one or more electrochromic devices (electrochromic windows or insulated glass units (IGUs)), external sensing devices (such as light or weather sensors), internal sensing devices (such as internal air quality monitoring devices or asset tracking devices), communication devices (antennas, receivers, transceivers, or radios), digital architecture elements, or building security devices (such as burglar alarms), lighting, or HVAC components. The distributed control panel 1601 includes a headend unit 1628 connected to a (e.g., dedicated) power supply 1629, e.g., an AC power supply. In some embodiments, a dedicated AC power supply is provided by power lines, such as coaxial or other cable lines. These dedicated power lines may extend around the perimeter of the building, for example, parallel to other (e.g., optical fiber) cabling in the primary ring. In other embodiments, the distributed control panel is connected to a DC power supply, for example, by DC power lines. These DC power lines may extend around the perimeter of the building, for example, parallel to the (e.g., optical fiber) cables in the primary ring.The headend unit 1628 within the distributed control panel 1601 can function as a data communication gateway between the primary ring of the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) and the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch 1601'. Each of the second wiring network branches 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606' may be similar to branch 1601' in form, but the number and type of branching devices and device controllers present in each branch may differ, for example, depending on the requirements of the building.

[0219] In the embodiment shown in Figure 16A, the optical fiber primary ring connects distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 around the ring to a building (e.g., Ethernet) network configured for data communication, such as control data for controlling various branching devices. The first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) primary ring can support high-speed data transmission with selectively low transmission loss and reduced (e.g., near zero or zero) interference at speeds of, for example, more than approximately 1 Gbit / s per channel (e.g., at least approximately 10 Gbit / s per channel). In some embodiments, the optical fiber primary ring 1612 does not provide power transmission to the distributed control panels.

[0220] The second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches 1601', 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606' connect the distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 around the ring to branch devices in each of the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches. The second wiring can supply both power and data. Power can be supplied to the distributed control panels by one or more dedicated power supplies. In embodiments where AC power is supplied to the distributed control panels, the power can be rectified to DC and converted to a low voltage DC of, for example, about 24V within the distributed control panels (e.g., by an AC-DC converter). The lower voltage power can be transmitted to the branch devices, for example, via the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch lines. In an alternative embodiment where DC power is supplied to the distributed control panel, the power can be converted to a lower voltage within the distributed control panel (e.g., by a DC-DC converter). The lower voltage power can then be transmitted to branch devices via a second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch line. Data from the primary ring of the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) is received by a headend unit in the distributed control panel and can be transmitted to branch devices via a second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch line using a protocol such as MoCA, G.hn, and / or any of the various cellular communication protocols. In certain embodiments, power is transmitted over the second wiring (e.g., coaxial) using, for example, the DC power line communication (PLC) protocol and / or the Power over Ethernet protocol. The PLC method can enable the transmission of both power and data to branch devices along a single branch line.

[0221] Each distributed control panel node in the primary ring shown in Figure 16A may be accessible by two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths, for example, due to the ring topology of the network. Redundancy can be built into the floor network by using a network protocol (such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), which is often used in networks with a ring topology). For example, if a given node causes a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the ring may not be blocked (because each node can be reached via an alternative path). Thus, fault-tolerant redundancy can be incorporated into the network. Redundancy may be advantageous when one or more network branches include branch devices used for applications requiring high reliability (e.g., reduced number of failure events), such as burglar alarms or communication devices. In some embodiments, the distributed control panel also includes a device for connecting to a wireless local area network (e.g., via Wi-Fi), providing an additional layer of fault-tolerant redundancy.

[0222] The ring-shaped network topology shown in Figure 16A can be easy to install (e.g., requires less effort, less experienced labor, and / or is cheaper to install). Furthermore, by using a second linear wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch around the primary ring, significant cost savings can be achieved, for example, by reducing the length of the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) required to provide (e.g., high-speed) data communication to all devices in the network. The topology shown in Figure 16A can achieve a balance between floor-wide fault tolerance, (e.g., high-speed) data communication supply, ease of installation, and low installation cost.

[0223] In certain embodiments, the building network infrastructure includes a vertical data plane (between building floors) and one or more horizontal data planes (within a single floor or multiple (e.g., adjacent) floors). In some cases, the horizontal and vertical data planes have (e.g., substantially) identical (or similar) data carrying capabilities and / or types of data communication carrying components. In other cases, these two data planes have at least one different data carrying capability. For example, the vertical data plane includes data carrying communication components that support at least about 10 gigabits per second or more of Ethernet transmission (e.g., using UTP wires and / or fiber optic cables), and the horizontal data plane includes data carrying components that also support at least about 10 gigabits per second or more of Gigabit Ethernet transmission (e.g., via fiber optics). In some cases, the horizontal data plane supports data transmission via a communication protocol (G.hn protocol and / or MoCA protocol such as the MoCA2.5 standard or MoCA3.0 standard). In certain embodiments, the connection between at least two floors in the vertical data plane uses a control panel equipped with (e.g., high-speed) Ethernet switches. These identical control panels may communicate with one or more nodes on a given floor via associated (e.g., coaxial) cables arranged in (e.g., high-speed) switches (e.g., fiber optic switches) and / or communication protocol (e.g., MoCA) interfaces and horizontal data planes.

[0224] Figure 17A shows an example of the physical network topology of floor 1700 of a building, and includes distributed control panels 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706, which are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) 1707, 1708, 1709, 1710, 1711, and 1712 to form a first wiring primary ring 1713. The network also includes distributed control panels 1714, 1715, and 1716, which are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring 1717, 1718, and 1719 to form a first wiring secondary ring 1720 within the primary ring 1713. The first wiring indicates a first wiring type. The secondary ring 1720 is connected to the primary ring 1713 by segments of first wiring 1721. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 forms a node within the primary ring 1713, while each distributed control panel 1714, 1715, and 1716 forms a node within the secondary ring 1720. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 is also connected to the corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', and 1716'. The second wiring indicates a second wiring type. The primary ring 1713 extends around the floor adjacent to the perimeter of the floor, and each of the second wiring network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', and 1706' of the primary ring extends along the respective portions of the perimeter of the building floor. The secondary ring 1720 extends within the primary ring 1713, around the center of the floor, as do each of the second wiring network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716' of the secondary ring. The control panel and second wiring of the secondary ring are located within the interior area of ​​the building floor, for example, within the physical perimeter of the floor where the primary ring 1713 is located. The secondary ring may be located on and / or within interior walls, equipment, or other structures of the floor. Such structures are typically constructed after the building perimeter, i.e., the exterior, is constructed.Therefore, in some cases, the primary ring of the floor is constructed before its secondary ring. The first and second wirings may be of the same wiring type. The first and second wirings may be of different wiring types.

[0225] As shown in the embodiment of the example in Figure 16A, each branch 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', 1716' of the second wiring network includes one or more branching devices coupled to a linear second wiring branch line by the corresponding second wiring drop line (and a device controller if applicable). Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 includes a corresponding headend unit and has a corresponding AC power supply. The headend unit in the distributed control panel functions as a data communication gateway between the first wiring primary ring 1713 or the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) secondary ring 1720 and each second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 16, a first primary wiring ring 1713 and a first secondary wiring ring 1720 connect distributed control panels on the ring to a building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes. Furthermore, a second wiring network branch, positioned around the ring, connects various distributed control panels to branching devices to supply both power and data. Power is supplied to the distributed control panels by a dedicated AC power supply, which is rectified to DC within the distributed control panels and delivered to the branching devices via the second wiring branch lines. Data from the first primary wiring ring 1713 and secondary ring 1720 is received by a headend unit within the distributed control panels and transmitted to the branching devices via the second wiring branch lines using, for example, a communication protocol (e.g., G.hn, MoCA, and / or cellular protocol). DC power can be transmitted instead of AC power using power line communication (PLC) and / or Electrical Power over Ethernet.

[0226] In the example shown in Figure 17A, each distributed control panel node in the primary ring 1713 is accessible by two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths due to the ring topology of the network. In addition, each distributed control panel node in the secondary ring 1720 is also accessible by at least two different first wiring paths. By using a network protocol such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), fault-tolerant redundancy can be established in the floor network in a manner similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 16A. For example, if a given node in the primary ring 1713 fails in a way that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the primary ring is not blocked because each node can reach it via an alternative path. Similarly, if a distributed control panel 1715 or 1716 in the secondary ring 1720 fails in a way that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the secondary ring is not blocked because it can reach them via an alternative path.

[0227] By including a secondary ring in the floor network, data and power can be supplied to one or more branching devices located inside the building. For example, such a network topology may be suitable for floor designs that incorporate internal rooms, other enclosed spaces, or internal open spaces such as atriums. Internal open spaces may be surrounded by branching targets (e.g., devices) such as electrochromic windows, antennas, or sensor units. Thus, the secondary ring may be positioned around the inner perimeter of the building, for example, around the outer perimeter of internal open spaces within the building. The secondary ring topology may be suitable for floor designs that do not incorporate internal open spaces. In such embodiments, the secondary ring can supply power and data to branching devices located inside the building, such as electrochromic windows incorporated into partitions, internal sensors, or burglary alarms.

[0228] The primary ring 1713 and secondary ring 1720 of the floor network may be installed simultaneously or at different times. This timing may be during and / or after the construction of the building. For example, the secondary ring 1720 may be installed after the primary ring 1713 is installed. In some embodiments, the primary ring 1713 may be installed during the construction of the building, and then the secondary ring 1720 may be added to the floor network when determining or reconfiguring the internal layout of the floors.

[0229] Figure 17B shows an example of the physical network topology of floor 1700 of a building, and includes distributed control panels 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706, which are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) 1707, 1708, 1709, 1710, 1711, and 1712 to form a first primary wiring ring 1713. The network also includes distributed control panels 1714, 1715, and 1716, which are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring 1717, 1718, and 1719 to form a first secondary wiring ring 1720 within the primary ring 1713. The secondary ring 1720 is connected to the primary ring 1713 at two different locations by segments of first wiring 1721 and 1722. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 forms a node within the primary ring 1713, while each distributed control panel 1714, 1715, and 1716 forms a node within the secondary ring 1720. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 is also connected to the corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', and 1716'. The primary ring 1713 extends around the floors adjacent to the outer perimeter of the floor, and each of the second wiring network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', and 1706' of the primary ring extends along the respective portions of the outer perimeter of the building floor. The secondary ring 1720 extends within the primary ring 1713 around the center of the floor, as do each of the second wiring network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716' of the secondary ring.

[0230] The network topology design in Figure 17B is similar to the design of the embodiment shown in Figure 17A. Specifically, the first primary wiring ring 1713 and the first secondary wiring ring 1720 connect distributed control panels on the ring to the building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication, and the second wiring network branches arranged around the ring can connect various distributed control panels to branch devices to supply both power and data.

[0231] As in the embodiment shown in Figure 17A, each distributed control panel node in the primary ring 1713 shown in Figure 17B is accessible by at least two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths due to the ring topology of the network. Each distributed control panel node in the secondary ring 1720 is also accessible by at least two different first wiring paths. Therefore, fault-tolerant redundancy can be established in the floor network by using a network protocol such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP). For example, if a given node in the primary ring 1713 fails in a way that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the primary ring is not blocked because each node can reach it via an alternative path. Similarly, if a given node in the secondary ring 1720 fails in a way that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the secondary ring is not blocked because each node can reach it via an alternative path. By including two first wiring links 1721 and 1722 between the primary and secondary rings, it is ensured that nodes in the secondary ring remain reachable even if a failure occurs anywhere in the primary ring (even if a failure occurs in a node forming the network connection to the secondary ring), and vice versa. The first wiring links 1721 and 1722 also ensure that each node in the secondary ring remains reachable even if a failure occurs anywhere in the secondary ring, even if a failure occurs in a distributed control panel directly connected to the primary ring. Thus, the embodiment shown in Figure 17B has increased fault tolerance redundancy and, therefore, increased reliability. Among other advantages, this multiple access topology can provide more reliable antenna coverage across the entire floor. Therefore, wireless communications such as cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth are less likely to be interrupted if a headend or link malfunctions (e.g., fails).

[0232] In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, the physical network topolo of floor 1800 of the building includes distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, and 1809 connected in series with each other by segments of a first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) 1810, 1811, 1812, 1813, 1814, 1815, 1816, 1817, 1818, and 1819. The distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, and 1806 form nodes of an external first wiring ring 1820 that extends around adjacent floors on the outer perimeter of the floor. The distributed control panels 1801, 1804, 1807, 1808, and 1809 form nodes within a first wiring network code that links the opposing sides of the external ring 1820. Thus, it is possible to define two sub-rings in the floor network: a first sub-ring connecting the distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1807, 1808, and 1809, and a second sub-ring connecting the distributed control panels 1801, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, and 1809. Each distributed control panel 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, and 1809 is connected to the corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches 1801', 1802', 1803', 1804', 1805', 1806', 1807', 1808', and 1809'. The network topology design in Figure 18 is similar to the previously described embodiment in that the first wiring connects the distributed control panels to the building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication, and the second wiring network branches connect the distributed control panels to branch devices to supply both power and communication signals (e.g., data). Each distributed control panel node in the network shown in Figure 18 is accessible by at least two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths due to the ring topology of the interconnected networks. Therefore, by using network protocols such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy in the floor network.The embodiment shown in Figure 18 can achieve greater overall fault tolerance and therefore higher reliability than the embodiment in Figure 17A, and achieves a similar level of reliability compared to the embodiment in Figure 17B, but with a reduced overall length of the required first wirin...

Claims

1. 1. A system for a facility, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit (i) electrical current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized to control at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the electrical current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch line cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction comprising: coupled to the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; The third connection portion is connected to the branch cable; directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection (i) and directing the current along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection (i); directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (i) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals from the trunk cable to the branch cable; a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device.

2. The system described in claim 1, wherein the first type communication signal and the second type communication signal do not have overlapping signal frequencies.

3. The system described in claim 1, wherein the distribution junction is configured to perform two-way communication.

4. A system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein directing (i) the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal is performed passively.

5. A system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein directing (i) the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal is actively performed.

6. A system for a facility, comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit (i) electrical current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized to control at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the electrical current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch line cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction comprising: coupled to the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; The third connection portion is connected to the branch cable; (i) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (i) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals from the trunk cable to the branch cable; a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device; A system wherein directing (i) the electrical current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal is actively performed.

7. A system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the directing of (i) the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal is controlled by at least one controller.

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the at least one controller is located at the distribution junction.

9. A system for a facility, comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit (i) electrical current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized to control at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the electrical current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch line cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction comprising: coupled to the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; The third connection portion is connected to the branch cable; (i) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (i) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; directing (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals from the trunk cable to the branch cable; a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (i) the directing of the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal are controlled by at least one controller; the at least one controller is disposed at the distribution junction; An actively executed system.

10. The distribution junction directs (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection; and 10. The system of claim 1 , configured to direct (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals from the branch cable to the trunk cable.

11. A system as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the distribution junction is configured to connect to the at least one device through the branch line cable.

12. An apparatus for controlling at least one device in a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, the at least one controller comprising: operatively coupling to a cabling system, said cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit (i) electrical current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized to control at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the electrical current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch line cable configured to couple to the at least one device; operatively coupling to a distribution junction including a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, said distribution junction comprising: configured to couple to the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; configured to couple to the branch cable by the third connection portion; configured to (i) direct the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, and (i) direct the current along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection; configured to direct (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; configured to (i) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; configured to direct (ii) the first type of communication signals and (iii) the second type of communication signals from the trunk cable to the branch cable; operatively coupling to the at least one device; (ii) using or directing the use of the first type of communication signal to control the at least one device.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power request from the at least one device.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) direct the current along the trunk cable to the at least one device, and (i) the current is transmitted through the distribution junction.

15. An apparatus as described in any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to formulate or direct the formulation of a time schedule for operation of the at least one device.

16. The at least one controller determines or directs the determination of an amount of time that a given process will take to execute on the at least one device; 16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, configured to determine or direct the determination of when action of said at least one device is required.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the at least one device includes a first device configured to issue a first request and a second device configured to issue a second request, and the at least one controller is configured to interlace or direct the interlacing of issuance of the first request and the second request.

18. An apparatus as described in any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct the prioritization of power budgets among multiple devices and / or multiple cables according to logic.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the logic includes machine learning (ML) to predict the power usage by the at least one device based on (i) device specifications, (ii) device power requirements, (iii) historical power usage data, (iv) one or more scheduling constraints, or (v) an inference engine.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the at least one controller is configured to use or direct the use of the power budget prioritization to generate a power distribution scheme for a cable of the plurality of cables and / or a device of the plurality of devices.

21. The at least one device includes a plurality of devices, and the at least one controller is configured to define or direct the definition of a device priority list for power usage among the plurality of devices; 21. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct the monitoring of power allocation to the plurality of devices, the plurality of devices being connected to a network.

22. A system for power transmission and communications transmission within a facility, the system comprising: a cabling system having cables configured to transmit (i) electrical current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized to control at least one device of the facility, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication, the cabling system configured to operably couple to the at least one device; a first antenna configured to receive (iii) the second type of communication signals outside of the facility and to transmit (iii) the second type of communication signals outside of the facility, the first antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; a second antenna configured to receive (iii) the second type of communication signals within the facility and transmit (iii) the second type of communication signals within the facility, the second antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to (i) control the at least one device using the first type of communication signal; (i) a distribution junction configured to direct the current along the cable from upstream to downstream of the system, and from the downstream to the upstream.

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