Data and power network of facility

Abstract

To provide a data communications network in or on a building which facilitates wired and wireless connectivity.SOLUTION: A communications network 200 for an enclosure such as a building includes wiring that conveys electrical power, and two types of communication signals. The network may facilitate control of a plurality of devices in an enclosure (e.g., facility) such as sensors, emitters, and / or tintable windows (IGU).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Priority Application This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63 / 146,365, filed February 5, 2021, 63 / 027,452, filed May 20, 2020, 62 / 978,755, filed February 19, 2020, and 62 / 977,001, filed February 14, 2020. This application is a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT / US20 / 32269, filed May 9, 2020, which claims priority to (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 850,993, filed May 21, 2019, and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 845,764, filed May 9, 2019. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 709,339, filed September 19, 2017. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 099,424, filed November 6, 2018, which is the national phase proceeding of International Application No. PCT / US17 / 31106, filed May 4, 2017, which claims the benefit of (i) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 379,163, filed August 24, 2016, (ii) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 352,508, filed June 20, 2016, (iii) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 340,936, filed May 24, 2016, and (iv) U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 333,103, filed May 6, 2016. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 849,540 filed April 15, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 949,978 filed November 23, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 529,677 filed May 25, 2017, which issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,673,121 on June 2, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 084,502 filed November 25, 2014.This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 220,514, filed September 18, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 268,204, filed September 16, 2016, which issued on April 9, 2019 as U.S. Patent No. 10,253,558, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 295,142, filed March 7, 2019, which issued on July 7, 2020 as U.S. Patent No. 10,704,322, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 946,140, ​​filed June 8, 2020. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 220,514, filed September 18, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 268,204, filed September 16, 2016, which issued April 9, 2019, as U.S. Patent No. 10,253,558, filed November 30, 2016, which issued July 30, 2019, as U.S. Patent No. 10,365 ,532, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 365,685, filed June 12, 2019, and issued December 8, 2020, as U.S. Patent No. 10,859,887; and a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 949,800, filed November 13, 2020.This application is also (A) a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 739,562, filed December 22, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 910,931, filed March 2, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 297,461, filed March 8, 2019, issued February 2, 2021 as U.S. Patent No. 10,908,471; (B) a national phase proceeding of International Application No. PCT / US16 / 41176, filed July 6, 2016, which claims the benefit of (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 191,975, filed July 13, 2015, and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 190,012, filed July 8, 2015; (C) a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 297,461, filed March 8, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 297,461, filed July 6, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 191,975, filed July 13, 2015, and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 190,012, filed July 8, 2015; Patent No. 16 / 380,929 also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 019,325, filed June 30, 2014, which is a national phase application of International Application No. PCT / US15 / 38667, filed June 30, 2015; a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 320,725, filed December 20, 2016, which issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,481,459 on November 19, 2019; a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 380,929, filed April 10, 2019; and a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 168,721, filed 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) may not only enable but facilitate the transmission of wireless signals and / or facilitate robust wired networks. This will be especially true as wireless connectivity moves to higher frequency carrier bands (e.g., as with fifth generation (5G) wireless networks) and / or as the physical infrastructure of facilities (e.g., buildings) becomes increasingly connected to networks.

[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 communicatively coupled targets increases. The targets can be of different types (e.g., sensors, antennas, output devices, and / or tintable windows, e.g., optically switchable devices). The complexity of the cable network can further increase if the network is required to facilitate 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 (e.g., due to excessive (e.g., electrical) power consumption) or otherwise fail. When a cable system spans long distances and / or includes multiple junctions (e.g., nodes), signals transmitted over this network tend to attenuate, resulting in large amounts of noise that can make them unintelligible (e.g., degrade as they propagate along the network). Some signals (e.g., 5G signals) that may minimally penetrate (e.g., cannot penetrate) an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building) may need to be transmitted from the external environment to the enclosure via a cable network. The cable network may increase in scope and / or complexity as the number, distance, and / or amount of (e.g., parallel) cable lines, targets, data, communications, and / or power distribution increases. In some embodiments, power distribution includes the distribution of any of the power components, e.g., the distribution of electrical current. Thus, networks with traditional cabling types and topologies may be costly and / or inappropriate for such high-density applications. Summary of the Invention

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

[0005] The present disclosure provides systems, devices, and / or non-transitory computer-readable media (eg, software) that facilitate wired and / or wireless connectivity within an enclosure.

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

[0007] In another aspect, a system for power and communications transmission within a facility includes: (a) a cabling system having cables configured to transmit electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device in the facility, and a second communication type configured for media communications, the cabling system configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type outside the facility and transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility, the first antenna operably coupled to the cabling system; (c) a second antenna configured to (i) receive signals of the second communication type inside the facility and (ii) transmit signals of the second communication type inside the facility, the second antenna operably coupled to the cabling system; and (d) at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to control the at least one device using the first communication type.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cable is configured to simultaneously transmit electrical current, a first communication type, and a second communication type. In some embodiments, the first communication type and the second communication type do not have overlapping signal frequencies. In some embodiments, the first communication type is within a frequency window. In some embodiments, the first communication type includes multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the second communication type is within a 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 communications. 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 disposed on one of a plurality of edge distribution frame devices disposed within the facility. In some embodiments, the current is direct current. In some embodiments, the current directed to the at least one device is up to about 48 volts direct current. In some embodiments, the cables of the cabling system are coaxial cables. In some embodiments, the cabling system comprises optical cables. In some embodiments, the facility comprises floors, and the cabling system comprises optical cables transmitting the first communication type and / or the second communication type between the floors. In some embodiments, the facility comprises a plurality of control panels, and the cabling system comprises optical cables transmitting the first communication type and / or the second communication type between the plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the cabling system comprises a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes power non-uniformly. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes the first communication type and / or the second communication type non-uniformly.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 communication type. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operably couple to a building management system. In some embodiments, the first communication type is generated and / or utilized by at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one device comprises a sensor, an emitter, an antenna, a tintable window, lighting, a security system, or a heating ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC). In some embodiments, the sensor is sensitive to motion. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the emitter comprises a light or 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 including one or more devices housed in a housing. In some embodiments, the one or more devices comprise at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the one or more devices comprise at least two devices that are of different types. In some embodiments, the facility is a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the cabling system services at least a portion of the multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper.

[0009] In another aspect, a method of power and communication transmission within a facility includes performing at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above.

[0010] In another aspect, an apparatus for power and communications transmission within a facility includes at least one controller operably coupled to a system and configured to perform or direct the performance of at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, the at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

[0011] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for power and communications transmission within a facility includes written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, the 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 one of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by different one of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0012] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device in a facility includes at least one controller having circuitry configured to: (a) couple to a cabling system having cables configured to transmit electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (b) couple to a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type outside the facility and transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility; (c) couple to a second antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type inside the facility and transmit signals of the second communication type inside the facility; (d) direct the second communication type from the first antenna to the second antenna and direct the second communication type from the second antenna to the first antenna; and (e) use or direct the use of the first communication type to control at least one device in the facility. In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises the circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (e) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (e) are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

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

[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 one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

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

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further includes simultaneously transmitting the electrical current, the first communication type, and the second communication type over the cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first communication type and the second communication type such that the first communication type does not have overlapping signal frequencies with the second communication type. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first communication type within a frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first communication type within multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the second communication type within a frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the 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 the 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 the second communication type as an analog radio frequency signal. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first antenna as a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the second antenna as part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the method further includes disposing the second antenna on one of a plurality of edge distribution frame devices disposed within the facility. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the current as direct current. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the current as direct current of up to about 48 volts.In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the cables of the cabling system as coaxial cables. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system including optical cables. In some embodiments, the facility includes floors. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system including optical cables configured to transmit (i) a first communication type and / or (ii) a second communication type between floors. In some embodiments, the facility includes a plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system including optical cables configured to transmit (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type between the 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 unevenly distributes power. In some embodiments, the method further includes a distribution junction that unevenly distributes the first communication type and / or the second communication type. 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 the first communication type by at least one device. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device including a sensor, an radiator, an antenna, tintable windows, lighting, a security system, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC), or any combination or plurality thereof.In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to sense motion. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the emitter 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 method further includes: wherein the sensor is 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 a gas type, motion, and / or pressure. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the device to be part of a device ensemble including one or more devices housed in a housing. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of different types. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the facility to be a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring a cabling system to service at least a portion of the multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the cabling system as a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction configured to operably couple the trunk cable to the branch cables.

[0017] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device in a facility includes at least one controller having circuitry configured to be operably coupled to (i) a cabling system, the cabling system including a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, a branch cable configured to carry electrical current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device, and a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection. a distribution junction configured to (a) couple to a trunk cable by a first connection and a second connection, (b) couple to a branch by a third connection, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to a branch cable, (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (g) operably couple to at least one device, and (h) use or direct the use of the first communication type to control the at least one device.

[0018] In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power request (e.g., a current request) from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power requirement (e.g., a current requirement) from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to direct a current along the trunk cable to the at least one device, the current being transmitted through a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the transmission of the current through the distribution junction occurs without control of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured not to be controlled by a first controller configured to control (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, (iii) the 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) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type transmitted through the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is active. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control the directed current in response to power requirements (e.g., current requirements) received from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to develop or direct the development of a time schedule for operation of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of how long a given process will take to occur in the device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of when operation of the at least one device is required.In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of (i) an operational mode, (ii) a scheme for the at least one device, or (iii) any combination or plurality thereof. In some embodiments, the determination is based at least in part on the operation of at least one other device operably coupled to the network. In some embodiments, the operational mode includes continuous operation and / or intermittent operation. In some embodiments, the at least one device includes a first device having a first operational mode and a second device having a second operational mode, and the at least one controller is configured to combine or direct the combination of the first and second operational modes. In some embodiments, 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 combine or direct the combination of the first and second requests. In some embodiments, the at least one device is a third-party device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to manage or direct the management of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operate or direct the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to identify or direct the identification of how the at least one controller is operably coupled to (i) a channel of the plurality of channels and / or (ii) a device of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct the prioritization of power budgets of the 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 designations.In some embodiments, the space designation includes prioritizing spaces in the facility. In some embodiments, the space designation includes one type of space. In some embodiments, the 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, residential space, commercial space, office space, space including one or more cubicles, dining space, living space, bedroom space, garage, workshop, basement, storage area, restroom, closet, foyer, hallway, windowless space, space with one or more windows, space with exterior walls, space with only interior walls, insulated space, uninsulated space, soundproof space, non-soundproof space, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the space designation includes occupancy level. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of occupancy level 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 utilized in a global positioning system (GPS). In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of an occupancy level based at least in part on dead reckoning. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes an occupied 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 requests, (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) an amount of power, (ii) a delivery time of the power, or (iii) a delivery duration of the power. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to use or direct the use of power budget prioritization to generate a power distribution scheme for the channels of the plurality of channels and / or the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to allocate or direct the allocation of power (e.g., current) to the channels of the plurality of channels and / or the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one device comprises a plurality of devices, and the at least one controller is configured to define or direct the definition of a prioritized list of devices regarding power usage among the plurality of devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct the monitoring of power distribution to the plurality of devices, and the plurality of devices are coupled to a network. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power (e.g., current) budget request from one or more of the plurality of devices.In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to consider or direct consideration of (i) the power budget request, (ii) the power budget request and any other power budget requests, (iii) the distribution status of power within the network, (iv) a forecast of the distribution of power within the network at a future time, (v) the power usage history of any of the plurality of devices within the network, (vi) the power usage trends of any of the plurality of devices, or (vii) any combination or plurality of these. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to generate or direct the generation of a result regarding the distribution of power to one of the plurality of devices from which the at least one controller received the power budget request. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to intermittently provide or direct the provision of power to one of the plurality of devices from which the at least one controller received the power budget request. In some embodiments, the intermittent provision includes regular (e.g., recurring) intervals. In some embodiments, the intermittent provision includes irregular (e.g., non-recurring) intervals. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to delay or direct a delay in the continuous provision of power (e.g., current) to a device of the plurality of devices for which the at least one controller received a power budget request. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to disconnect or direct a disconnection of a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is consuming power above a threshold. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to terminate or direct a termination of a second communication type with a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power above a threshold.In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to remove or direct the removal of at least a portion of power from a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power above a threshold. In some embodiments, the priority list is based at least in part on business logic. In some embodiments, the power budget request is for a modified power budget. In some embodiments, the power usage trend is determined at least in part based on machine learning. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is operably coupled to a network to which one or more tintable windows are operably coupled. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to generate or direct the generation of a model using one or more operating modes of the tintable windows. In some embodiments, the one or more operating modes include one or more tintable window transitions. In some embodiments, the one or more operating modes include artificial intelligence or machine learning. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to collect or direct 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. In some embodiments, the collected information includes a composite measurement. In some embodiments, the collected information is collected from software and / or hardware of the local controller. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to use or direct the use of a training set to predict power usage of the at least one device at a time in the future. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to deliver or direct the delivery of power to the at least one device based at least in part on a prediction of power (e.g., current) usage of the at least one device at a time in the future. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (h) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (h) are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

[0019] In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device in a facility, the method including performing at least one operation using any of the operations of at least one controller disclosed above.

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

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

[0022] In another aspect, a system for power and communications transmission includes a trunk cable configured to transmit electrical current, a first communications type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communications type configured for media communications; a branch cable configured to transmit electrical current and (i) the first communications type and / or (ii) the second communications type, 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 junction comprises a distribution junction configured to (a) couple along the trunk cable by a first connection and a second connection, (b) couple to the branch by a third connection, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable.

[0023] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (A) transmit electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication through a cabling system, the cable being part of the cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled, the cabling system comprising a trunk cable configured to transmit electrical current, the first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and the second communication type configured for media communication; and branch cables configured to transmit electrical current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cables being part of the cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled. and (B) transmitting or directing the transmission of at least one device through a cabling system comprising a branch cable configured to couple to a branch cable and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction configured to (a) couple along the trunk cable by the first connection and the second connection, (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable.

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

[0025] In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device in a facility includes: (A) transmitting electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication through a cabling system, the cabling being part of the cabling system to which at least one device is operatively coupled, the cabling system including a trunk cable configured to transmit electrical current, the first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and the second communication type configured for media communication; and a branch cable configured to transmit electrical current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and (B) transmitting through a cabling system comprising a distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the junctions configured to: (a) couple along a trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) couple to a branch cable by the third connection portion; (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection portion to the second connection portion; (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection portion to the second connection portion; (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (B) controlling at least one device by using the first communication type.

[0026] In another aspect, a system for power and communications transmission includes a trunk cable configured to transmit electrical current, a first communications type utilized to control devices in a facility, and a second communications type configured for media communications; a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit electrical current and (i) the first communications type and / or (ii) the second communications type, the plurality of branch cables configured to couple to devices; and at least a controller configured to control distribution of the current and / or activation of the devices by taking into account the electrical current transmitted within the system.

[0027] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling devices in a facility includes at least one controller having circuitry configured to: (A) operably couple to a cabling system including a trunk cable configured to carry current, a first communication type utilized to control the devices, and a second communication type configured for media communication, and a plurality of branch cables configured to carry current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of branches configured to couple to the devices; (B) operably couple to the devices; and (C) control current distribution and / or activation of the devices by taking into account the current carried in the system.

[0028] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises the circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

[0029] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling devices in a facility includes instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations including: (A) transmitting or directing the transmission of electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the devices, and a second communication type configured for media communication through a cabling system, the cabling system including a trunk cable configured to transmit the electrical current, the first communication type utilized to control the devices, and the second communication type configured for media communication, the trunk cable being part of the cabling system to which the devices are operatively coupled, and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit the electrical current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of trunk cables having branches configured to couple to the devices; and (B) controlling or directing the control of the distribution of electrical current and / or activation of devices by taking into account the electrical current transmitted within the system.

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

[0031] In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device in a facility includes: (A) transmitting an electric current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication through a cabling system, the cabling system including a trunk cable configured to transmit the electric current, the first communication type utilized to control the device, and the second communication type configured for media communication, the cable being part of the cabling system to which at least one device is operatively coupled, and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit the electric current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of trunk cables having branches configured to couple to the device; and (B) controlling the distribution of the electric current and / or the activation of the device by taking into account the electric current transmitted within the system.

[0032] In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device in a facility includes a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to carry (i) electrical current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising: a distribution junction configured to (a) couple along the trunk cable by a first connection and a second connection, (b) couple to a branch by a third connection, (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (g) operably couple 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 from the second connection to the first connection along the trunk cable. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type is passive. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type is (i) active, (ii) dynamic, or (iii) active and dynamic. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is disposed at the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the branch cable to the trunk cable, hi some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to connect to at least one device via the trunk cable.

[0034] In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device in a facility includes: (A) (I) a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; (II) a branch cable configured to carry (i) electrical current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to at least one device; and (Ill) a distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction (a) coupled along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion. (b) coupling to the branch cable by a third connection; (c) directing current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (g) a distribution junction configured to operably couple to at least one device; and (B) controlling at least one device at least in part by using the 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 the second connection to the first connection along the trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the branch cable to the trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to connect to at least one device via the trunk cable. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to passively direct the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to actively and / or dynamically direct the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first communication type, and / or the second communication type through the distribution junction is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is disposed at the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a microcontroller.

[0036] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device in a facility includes: (A) a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to carry (i) electrical current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to 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 (a) coupled along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion, (b) coupled to the branch cable by the third connection portion, and (c) coupled along the trunk cable by the first connection portion. and (b) a distribution junction configured to (a) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (b) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cables, (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cables, and (g) operably couple to at least one device; and (B) at least one controller configured to: (A) use or direct the use of the cabling system; and (C) at least partially control or direct the control of at least one device by using the first communication type.

[0037] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises the circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

[0038] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility includes written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors operably coupled to a cabling system of the facility, cause the one or more processors to perform operations, the cabling system including: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to carry (i) electrical current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection. (a) a distribution junction configured to couple along the trunk cable by a first connection and a second connection; (b) couple to a branch by a third connection; (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (g) operably couple to at least one device, wherein the operations include (A) using or directing the use of the cabling system; and (B) at least partially controlling or directing the control of at least one device by using the first communication type.

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

[0040] In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device in a facility includes: (a) directing transmission of current from a trunk cable to the device through a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable through a distribution junction configured to direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (b) monitoring power (e.g., current) consumption of the device on 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 home. In some embodiments, the residential facility includes a multi-family home. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct communications from the trunk cable to the branch cable. In some embodiments, the communications include a first communications type and a second communications type. In some embodiments, the first communications type utilizes a wavelength different from the wavelength utilized 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 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 the device in response to the monitoring. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and / or using at least one device as a sensor, an emitter, or a combination thereof, hi some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and / or using at least one device as an antenna.

[0042] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device in a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller operably coupled to a cabling system and configured to perform or direct the performance of any of the operations of any of the methods 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 one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

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

[0044] In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device in a facility, the system comprising structural components of any of the structures (eg, apparatus) disclosed above.

[0045] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product including written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors operably coupled to a cabling system of the facility and a power (e.g., current) source of current, cause the one or more processors to perform operations including: (a) directing transmission of current from a trunk cable of the cabling system to a device of the facility through a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable through a distribution junction configured to direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (b) monitoring or directing the monitoring of power (e.g., current) consumption of devices in the trunk cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable; and (c) controlling or directing the control of the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

[0046] In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises one or more media. In some embodiments, the operations are performed by the same one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are performed by different one or more processors. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0047] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller configured to: (a) operably couple to a cabling system and a source of current for the facility; (b) direct transmission of current from a trunk cable of the cabling system to a device of the facility through a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable through a distribution junction configured to direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (c) monitor or direct the monitoring of power consumption of devices in the trunk cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable; and (d) control or direct the control of current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

[0048] In some embodiments, at least one controller comprises the circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) through (d) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) through (d) are performed by different one of the at least one controller.

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

[0050] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features: a control panel wherein a second subset of the end devices include a cellular antenna, and wherein the cellular communications headend is configured to transmit a first cellular communication via the cellular antenna and receive a second cellular communication upon receipt of the second cellular communication by the cellular antenna; a control panel wherein a second subset of the end devices include a passive antenna, and wherein the cellular communications headend is configured to transmit the first cellular communication via the passive antenna and receive the second cellular communication upon receipt of the second cellular communication by the passive antenna; a control panel wherein the data networking headend is a G.hn headend and the communications protocol is the G.hn protocol; a control panel wherein the data networking headend is a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) headend and the communications protocol is the MoCA protocol. a control panel, wherein a first subset of the end devices are power consuming devices, and wherein the control panel also includes a controller configured to manage DC signal consumption among the power consuming devices by negotiating with the (e.g., electrical) power consuming devices via a data network head end; a control panel, also including a plurality of fiber optic connectors, wherein the control panel is configured to communicate with additional control panels via optical fibers coupled to the fiber optic connectors; a control panel, wherein the first subset of the end devices include a plurality of window controllers, and wherein 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 controller using the data network head end; and a control panel, wherein the data networking head end is configured to generate and receive signals in a first frequency range as part of communicating in a communication protocol, wherein the first cellular communication and the second cellular communication are in a second frequency range, and wherein the first frequency range and the second frequency range do not overlap.

[0051] Certain embodiments may include an apparatus for controlling one or more optically switchable windows, the apparatus including: a first connector, the first connector configured to couple to a first network cable; a low pass filter coupled to the first connector; a DC-DC circuit coupled to the low pass filter, the DC-DC circuit configured to receive a DC signal from the first network cable via the low pass filter and configured to convert the DC signal to one or more regulated DC signals; a second connector, the second connector configured to provide a first regulated DC signal from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable; and one or more controllers, the one or more controllers configured to: (1) receive one of the regulated DC signals from the DC-DC circuit and thereby control a power supply; and (2) one or more controllers collectively configured to provide bidirectional communication between a first external device coupled to the one or more controllers via the first connector and a second external device coupled to the one or more controllers via the second connector; a third connector configured to couple to one or more optically switchable windows via a window cable; and a window controller configured to (i) receive and be powered by one of the regulated DC signals from the DC-DC circuit, (ii) receive or generate coloration transition commands, and (iii) provide, via the third connector, to the at least one optically switchable window a coloration transition signal that is based on the coloration transition command.

[0052] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features: an apparatus, wherein the first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, and the second external device is an end device, and wherein the one or more controllers are configured to receive a power delivery request from the end device and forward the power delivery request to the control panel; an apparatus, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption by the second external device of the first conditioned DC signal, and before negotiating power consumption, the one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device of the first conditioned DC signal to a predetermined limit; an apparatus, wherein the one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to the first connector, the G.hn interface configured to provide bidirectional communication in a G.hn communication protocol between the first external device and the apparatus; an apparatus, wherein the one or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to the first connector, the MoCA interface configured to provide bidirectional communication in a MoCA communication protocol between the first external device and the apparatus. a device, wherein the one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to the second connector, the Ethernet interface configured to provide bidirectional communication between a second external device and the device in an Ethernet communication protocol; a device, wherein the one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to the first connector, the G.hn interface configured to provide bidirectional communication between the first external device and the device in the G.hn communication protocol, a device, wherein the one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to the second connector, the Ethernet interface configured to provide bidirectional communication between the second external device and the device in the Ethernet communication protocol, and a device, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to translate communication between the G.hn communication protocol and the Ethernet communication protocol; a device, wherein the low pass filter includes an inductor choke.The DC-DC circuit includes at least one of a step-down converter and a step-up converter. 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] Particular embodiments may include a network adapter comprising: a first connector configured to couple 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 DC signals from the first network cable via the low pass filter and configured to convert the DC signals to one or more conditioned DC signals; a second connector configured to provide one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable; and one or more controllers configured to convert one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable. The above controllers include one or more controllers collectively configured to: (1) receive and power one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuit; (2) communicate bidirectionally with a first external device coupled to the one or more controllers via a first connector using a first communication protocol; (3) communicate bidirectionally with a second external device coupled to the 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] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features: a network adapter, wherein the first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, the second external device is an end device, and the one or more controllers are configured to receive a (e.g., electrical) power delivery request from the end device in a first communication protocol and forward the power delivery request to the control panel in a second communication protocol; a network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption by the second external device of the first conditioned DC signal, and prior to negotiating power consumption, the one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device of the first conditioned DC signal to a predetermined limit; a network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to the first connector, and the first communication protocol is the G.hn communication protocol; a network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to the first connector, and the first communication protocol is the MoCA communication protocol. a network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to the second connector, and the second communication protocol is an Ethernet communication protocol; a network adapter, wherein the first connector is a coaxial cable connector and the second connector is a Power over Ethernet connector; and a network adapter, wherein one of the conditioned DC signals provided by the second connector is a 48-volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet protocol.

[0055] Certain embodiments 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 a first one of the distribution junctions and the additional coaxial cable trunks are coupled between each pair of the distribution junctions, and the distribution junctions, the first coaxial cable trunk, and the additional coaxial cable trunks are collectively configured to (i) convey a DC signal from the control panel to each of the distribution junctions, (ii) convey a first time-varying signal formatted in a first digital communications protocol bidirectionally between the control panel and each of the distribution junctions, and (iii) convey a second time-varying signal formatted in a second digital communications 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 frequency band and the second frequency band do not overlap.

[0056] Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features: A system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalance transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, the primary circuit coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, and the tertiary circuit coupled to a coaxial cable branch specific to that distribution junction, wherein a first time-varying signal having a first (e.g., RF or other communication signal) power level and received by the primary circuit is split unequally between the secondary circuit and the tertiary circuit, such that the secondary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a second (e.g., RF or other communication signal) power level that is at least 75% of the first power level, and the tertiary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a third (e.g., RF or other communication signal) power level that is no more than 25% of the first power level. a system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalance transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, the primary circuit coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, and the tertiary circuit coupled to a coaxial cable branch specific to that distribution junction, wherein a first time-varying signal having a first power level is unequally split between the secondary and tertiary circuits such 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 less than the second power level; and at least some of the distribution junctions further include a first inductor that couples a DC signal from the upstream coaxial cable trunk to the downstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction, and a second inductor that couples a DC signal from the upstream coaxial cable trunk to the coaxial cable branch associated with the distribution junction. The system includes a first one of the divider junctions including a branch circuit that includes a passive cellular antenna, a first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal being lower than the cellular communication signal, and the first one of the divider junctions including a low pass filter configured to block the cellular communication signal from propagating through the first one of the divider junctions to the remaining junctions of the divider junctions.a system in which a first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than cellular communication signals, and at least one of the distribution junctions includes a low pass filter configured to block the cellular communication signal from propagating from the upstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction to the downstream coaxial cable trunk; a second one of the distribution junctions is directly coupled to the first one of the distribution junctions by a first one of the additional coaxial cable trunks, the second one of the distribution junctions including a branch circuit including an additional passive cellular antenna; and a system in which the first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than cellular communication signals, and the second one of the distribution junctions includes a low pass filter configured to block 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 present disclosure provides systems, apparatus (e.g., controllers), and / or non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., software) that implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0058] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides methods of using any of the systems and / or devices disclosed herein, eg, for their intended purposes.

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

[0060] In another aspect, the apparatus comprises at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to implement (e.g., execute) the methods disclosed herein. The at least one controller is capable of implementing any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0061] In another aspect, a system comprises at least one controller programmed to direct the operation of at least one other device (or component thereof), and a device (or component thereof), wherein the at least one controller is operably coupled to the device (or component thereof). The device (or component thereof) can include any device (or component thereof) disclosed herein. The at least one controller can direct any device (or component thereof) disclosed herein.

[0062] In another aspect, a computer software product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, when read by a computer, cause the computer to direct an apparatus disclosed herein to perform (e.g., execute) any of the methods disclosed herein, the non-transitory computer-readable medium being operably coupled to the apparatus. The apparatus may comprise any apparatus (or any component thereof) disclosed herein.

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

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

[0065] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and a non-transitory computer-readable medium coupled thereto, the non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein and / or executes instructions for the controller(s) disclosed herein.

[0066] The content of this Summary section is provided as a simplified introduction to the disclosure and is not intended to be used to limit the scope of any inventions disclosed herein or the appended claims.

[0067] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

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

[0069] Incorporation by Reference All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0070] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings or figures (also referred to herein as "figure" and "figures"). [Figure 1] 1A and 1B show schematic diagrams of the control system architecture and a perspective view of the enclosure. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a network infrastructure; [Figure 3] The electrical circuit is shown schematically and the distribution junction housing is shown. [Figure 4] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a network cable. [Figure 5] 1 shows a schematic representation of signals at different frequencies. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a network adapter. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic representation of a control panel. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a network infrastructure; [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a network infrastructure; [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a network infrastructure; [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a network infrastructure; [Figure 12] 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an electrochromic device. [Figure 13] 1A and 1B show schematic cross-sectional side views of tintable windows; [Figure 14] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a computer system. [Figure 15] 1 shows a schematic representation of floor network topologies for various facilities. [Figure 16] A shows a schematic diagram of the facility's floor network topology. B shows a diagram of a portion of the facility's floor network. [Figure 17] 1 shows a schematic representation of floor network topologies for various facilities. [Figure 18] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a facility floor network topology. [Figure 19] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of a distribution junction. [Figure 20] 1 shows a schematic representation of various mechanical configurations associated with a distribution junction. [Figure 21] 1 shows a schematic representation of various mechanical configurations associated with a distribution junction. [Figure 22] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of a distribution junction. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates various network infrastructures in a schematic manner; [Figure 24] 1 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method for utilizing a distribution junction. [Figure 25] 1 shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for managing devices. [Figure 26] 1 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method for prioritizing power budgets for devices. [Figure 27] 1 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method for managing power distribution for a device. [Figure 28] 1 shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for managing devices in the context of tintable windows.

[0071] The figures and components therein may not be drawn to scale. Various components of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0072] While various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It will be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be used.

[0073] Terms such as "a," "an," and "the" are not intended to refer to only a single entity, but include general classes of which specific examples can be used to describe. While terms herein are used to describe particular embodiments of the invention(s), their usage does not define the invention(s).

[0074] When a range is mentioned, unless otherwise specified, the range is meant to be inclusive. For example, a range between the value 1 and the value 2 is inclusive and means to include the values ​​1 and 2. An inclusive range extends to any value from about the value 1 to about the value 2. As used herein, the terms "adjacent" or "adjacent to" include "next to," "adjoining," "in contact with," and "in proximity to."

[0075] As used herein, including in the claims, the conjunction "and / or" in a phrase such as "comprising X, Y, and / or Z" refers to the inclusion of any combination of X, Y, and Z, or a plurality of X, Y, and Z. For example, such a phrase means including X. For example, such a phrase means including Y. For example, such a phrase means including Z. For example, such a phrase means including X and Y. For example, such a phrase means including X and Z. For example, such a phrase means including Y and Z. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Ys. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and a plurality of Ys. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Ys and a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and Ys. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Ys and a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and Ys. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Xs and a plurality of Zs. For example, such a phrase means including a plurality of Y and Z. For example, such a phrase means including X and a plurality of Y. For example, such a phrase means including X and a plurality of Z. For example, such a phrase means including Y and a plurality of Z. The conjunction "and / or" is meant to have the same effect as the phrase "X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof or a plurality thereof." The conjunction "and / or" is meant to have the same effect as the phrase "one or more of X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof." The conjunction "and / or" is meant to have the same effect as the phrase "at least one X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof." The conjunction "and / or" is meant to have 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., a mechanism) that is coupled (e.g., connected) to a second element to enable the intended operation of the second element and / or the first element. The coupling can include a physical or non-physical coupling. A non-physical coupling can include a signal-inductive coupling (e.g., wireless coupling). The coupling can include a physical coupling (e.g., physically connected) or a non-physical coupling (e.g., via wireless communication).

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

[0078] Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). The network infrastructure can be used for various purposes, such as to provide communication and / or power (e.g., electrical current) services. The communication services may include high-bandwidth (e.g., wireless and / or wired) communication services. The communication services may be to facility residents and / or users outside the facility (e.g., building). The network infrastructure may function in conjunction with or as a replacement for portions of one or more cellular carriers' infrastructure. The network infrastructure may be provided within a facility that includes tintable (e.g., electrically switchable) windows. Examples of network infrastructure components 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 comprise 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. The wiring may include cables. The cables may include jackets, insulation, wires, and / or optical fibers. The cables may include cable assemblies. The 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, paired cable, cellular cord, ribbon cable, shielded cable, single cable, premises cabling, underwater cable, twin axial (Twinax) cable, twin and earth (TT&E) cable, twin lead, and / or twisted pair. The coaxial cable 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. The additional coverage may exceed the coverage provided by the cellular carrier. The additional coverage may be (i) within a building and / or (ii) outside a building. For example, the network infrastructure may provide and / or supplement the cellular carrier's ability to provide outside-building coverage 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 may 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 may be between any of the foregoing values ​​(e.g., between about 10 m and about 1000 m, between about 10 m and about 500 m, or between about 500 m and about 1000 m). Near a building may be within the facility's premises. In some cases, the facility and its associated network infrastructure may 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 deployed. For example, higher-frequency bands may require more antennas than lower-frequency communication bands. For example, it is estimated that deploying 5G cellular service in a given area will require more than twice the number of antennas required to provide the same level of cellular service as fourth-generation (4G) communication protocols. Some of these antennas may be located within a facility or a portion 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 service may require many antennas to provide adequate coverage and capacity in these cities. Currently, there is a paucity of public spaces (such as utility poles) where carriers can deploy antennas to provide adequate 5G coverage (and / or other capacity). Private buildings lining urban canyons can provide locations for 5G antennas.

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

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

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

[0085] In some embodiments, one or more of the systems and / or devices described herein are configured to selectively attenuate (e.g., block) and / or transmit wireless signals, for example, in a controllable manner. In various embodiments, the system and / or device is configured such that the transmission of wireless communications is based at least in part on location and / or time. In various embodiments, the system, device, or any component thereof is configured to be at least in part automatically controlled (e.g., fully automatically controlled). One or more components of the systems and / or devices described herein are fully automatically controlled. Controlled may include attenuated, modulated, altered, managed, inhibited, trained, regulated, restrained, monitored, manipulated, and / or guided. In some embodiments, control is achieved through the use of controllable active elements that receive, analyze, manipulate (e.g., convert and / or compare), and / or retransmit signals. For example, (i) a receive antenna may face one direction on one side of the facility (e.g., toward a wall or window), and (ii) a transmitter antenna may face another (e.g., opposite or substantially opposite) direction on the other side of the facility (e.g., toward another wall or window). Between the receiver and transmitter, active elements 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 is transmitting a signal, and (II) when the element is inactive (e.g., "off"), it is not transmitting a signal.

[0086] In some embodiments, an active element that receives and retransmits wireless communication signals (e.g., automatically) is a repeater. This repeater can amplify the signal and / or transmit the signal to locations that would not otherwise receive it. A repeater (or other active element) may include a particular antenna combination. The antenna combination may include one type of antenna inside the facility (e.g., a building) and a different type of antenna outside the facility (or on the other side of an interior wall or window). In connection with the description of various antenna types herein, some embodiments use a handle antenna on the outside of the building operably coupled to one of the other antennas inside the building (e.g., a microstrip antenna). In some implementations, one or both antennas are disposed on a mullioned feature such as a beauty cap. The antenna may include an isotropic antenna, a dipole antenna, a monopole antenna, an array antenna, a loop antenna, a conical antenna, an aperture antenna, a traveling wave antenna, or a random wire antenna. The loop antenna may include a large loop (eg, quad or half loop), intermediate (eg, halo), and / or small loop (eg, ferrite) antenna.

[0087] It has been observed that electrochromic windows can block signals within a range of about 10 dB to about 20 dB of insertion loss (e.g., depending on the transmission frequency). Greater losses can occur at higher frequencies. Some embodiments disclosed herein use wireless retransmitters and / or repeaters to avoid signal blockage by electrochromic windows. In some embodiments, such retransmitters are disposed on or adjacent to at least one Integrated Glass Unit (IGU). The IGU can include an electrochromic device (e.g., including a layered structure).

[0088] In certain embodiments, windows and / or walls include a layer or structure that substantially (e.g., completely) blocks wireless transmissions, for example, over a specific spectral range. The layer structure may be that of an IGU. In one example, the blocking layer completely covers one surface (e.g., glass) of the light. Examples of window blocking structures are 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, for example, use facility structures that attenuate (e.g., weaken) 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 structures may include windows, doors, or walls. A security system may, for example, use 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 need not retransmit (e.g., directly) the wireless signal across facility structures (e.g., walls or windows). In some cases, it selectively transmits the wireless signal through the facility to one or more locations remote from where the signal was received. It may use a wired network to carry the received signal, e.g., by implementing a communication protocol such as Ethernet. For example, an externally generated wireless signal may be received by a sensor disposed on the roof (or any other exterior wall) of a building and then transmitted via wires to one or more remote locations within the facility (e.g., the basement, such as 10 stories below the roof).

[0090] In some cases, the retransmission system transmits a cellular signal (or other suitable wireless signal) to selected building locations at one or more selected times, which may be delayed from when the wireless signal was originally 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 it is expected that a large number of 5G antennas will be required to provide adequate coverage and capacity in built-up areas, such as the centers of certain large cities, 5G antennas can be deployed on outdoor portions of buildings to complement the data-carrying and antenna infrastructure of a carrier's cellular network. In some cases, such antennas are connected to a high-bandwidth network infrastructure, such as an Ethernet network infrastructure within the building. An exemplary fully or partially wired network infrastructure to support such 5G applications is described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,324, filed February 8, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0092] Various antenna arrangements may be deployed to support 5G cellular and / or other communication services. Both coverage and capacity may 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 service to a defined area. Capacity can be addressed by having high-bandwidth data-carrying lines and / or switches. Some examples of high-capacity infrastructure are provided in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,324, filed February 8, 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 a particular protocol. 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., from approximately 3550 MHz to approximately 3700 MHz) that can be used to provide wireless services not licensed by the 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, such as, for example, within a digital architecture element. A digital architecture may refer to aspects of an architecture featuring one or more digital technologies.

[0094] Various embodiments support multiple frequency bands and / or multiple protocols. Examples include cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, and / or 5G). Examples include local area networking of devices and / or Internet access. Examples include wireless networks such as WLAN (e.g., WiFi) and / or related applications such as Voice over WLAN. Examples include Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). A given antenna (or combination of antennas) may be protocol independent. Associated transmitters and / or receivers may be protocol independent. For example, Carrier A and Carrier 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 have Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC), and / or Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) may use 5G as an evolution of 4G LTE mobile broadband services. 5G networks may exhibit faster connections, higher throughput, and / or greater capacity compared to 4G networks. 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) may be used to connect large numbers of low-power (e.g., current), low-cost devices, for example, over wide areas, with high scalability and / or increased battery life.

[0096] In some embodiments, 5G networks transmit data at least about 1 gigabit per second (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s. In some embodiments, 5G airborne delay targets are 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. 5G airborne delay targets 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. 5G airborne delay targets 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 specific infrastructure includes devices for indoor communication (e.g., within a building) via 5G protocols that do not support Wi-Fi, for example. Several 5G antennas may be deployed throughout a building (e.g., where 5G may be limited to line of sight). Antennas may be located in one or more locations where Wi-Fi antennas typically exist. In some installations, 5G will have sufficient bandwidth and / or coverage to provide one or more (e.g., all) of the functions that Wi-Fi currently provides.

[0098] In some embodiments, an 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 sub-enclosures. 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., cinder block), tile, drywall, or frame (e.g., steel frame).

[0099] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more openings. The one or more openings may be reversibly closable. The one or more openings may be permanently open. The fundamental length scale of the one or more openings may be small relative to the fundamental length scale of the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The fundamental length scale may include a diameter, a length, a width, or a height of a bounding circle. The surface of the one or more openings may be small relative to the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The opening surface may be a percentage of the total surface of the wall(s). For example, the opening surface may be approximately 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the wall(s). The wall(s) may comprise a floor, a ceiling, or a sidewall. The closable opening may be closed by at least one window or door. The enclosure may be at least a portion of a facility. The enclosure may include at least a portion 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 a room, a hall, a foyer, an attic, a basement, a balcony (e.g., an interior or exterior balcony), a stairwell, a corridor, an elevator shaft, a facade, a mezzanine, a penthouse, a garage, a porch (e.g., an enclosed porch), a terrace (e.g., an enclosed terrace), a cafeteria, and / or a duct. In some embodiments, an enclosure may be stationary and / or mobile (e.g., a train, a plane, a ship, a vehicle, or a rocket). A facility may include one or more enclosures. A facility may be stationary or mobile. For example, a facility may include a transient vehicle such as an automobile, an RV, a bus, a train, an airplane, a helicopter, a ship, or a boat. For example, a facility may include one or more buildings.

[0100] In some embodiments, the enclosure encloses an atmosphere. The atmosphere may include one or more gases. The gas may include an inert gas (e.g., argon or nitrogen) and / or a non-inert gas (e.g., oxygen or carbon dioxide). The atmosphere of the enclosure may be similar to the atmosphere outside the enclosure (e.g., the ambient atmosphere) in at least one characteristic of the atmosphere, 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 atmosphere outside the enclosure in at least one characteristic of the atmosphere, 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 atmosphere outside (e.g., the ambient) atmosphere. For example, the enclosure atmosphere may contain the same (e.g., or substantially similar) 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 be different in different portions of the enclosure (e.g., by flowing gas through a vent associated with the enclosure).

[0101] Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). The network infrastructure can be used for various purposes, such as to provide communication and / or power services. The communication services can include high-bandwidth (e.g., wireless and / or wired) communication services. The communication services can be for facility residents and / or users outside the facility (e.g., building). The network infrastructure can function in conjunction with or as a replacement for part of the infrastructure of one or more cellular carriers. The network infrastructure can be provided within a facility that includes electrically switchable windows. Examples of network infrastructure components include high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure can 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 can be operably coupled to and / or include a wireless network. The network infrastructure can include wiring. One or more sensors can be deployed (e.g., installed) within the environment as part of network installation and / or after network installation.

[0102] In various embodiments, the network infrastructure supports a control system for one or more windows, such as electrochromic (e.g., tintable) windows. The control system may include one or more controllers operably coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. While the disclosed embodiments describe electrochromic windows (also referred to herein as “optically switchable windows,” “tintable windows,” or “smart windows”), the concepts disclosed herein may be applied to other types of switchable optical devices, such as, for example, 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). The display element may be attached to a portion of a transparent body (e.g., a window). For example, liquid crystal devices and / or suspended particle devices may be implemented instead of or in addition to electrochromic devices. Tintable windows may be disposed in any other enclosure such as a (non-transient) facility, such as a building, and / or a transient vehicle, such as an automobile, RV, bus, train, airplane, helicopter, ship, or boat.

[0103] In some embodiments, the tintable window exhibits a (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) change in at least one optical property of the window, e.g., upon application of a stimulus. The stimulus may include an optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimulus. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows may be used to control lighting and / or glare conditions, e.g., by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating therethrough. One or more tintable windows may be used to control the temperature within an enclosure (e.g., a building), e.g., by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating therethrough. Control of solar energy may control the heat load imposed on the interior of an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). Control may be manual and / or automatic. Control may be used to maintain one or more desired (e.g., environmental) conditions, e.g., occupant comfort. Control may include reducing energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be driven by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be driven by one system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be driven by a single system (abbreviated herein as "HVAC"). In some cases, the tintable window may be responsive to (e.g., communicatively coupled to) one or more environmental sensors and / or user controls. The tintable window may comprise (e.g., be an electrochromic window). The window may be located within an enclosure structure (e.g., a facility such as a building) ranging from the interior to the exterior. However, this need not be the case. The tintable window may operate using a liquid crystal device, a suspended particle device, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device (e.g., microshutter), or any now known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through the window.Windows (e.g., with MEMS devices for tinting) are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 443,353, filed May 15, 2015, entitled "MULTI-PANE WINDOWS INCLUDING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES AND ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DEVICES," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, one or more tintable windows can be located inside an enclosure (e.g., a building), for example, between a conference room and a foyer. In some cases, one or more tintable windows can be used in automobiles, trains, airplanes, and other vehicles, for example, in place of passive and / or non-tinted windows.

[0104] In some embodiments, the tintable window comprises an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an "EC device" (abbreviated herein as ECD), or "EC"). The EC device can include at least one coating including at least one layer. The at least one layer can include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another optical state, for example, upon application of an electric potential to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another optical state can be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another optical state can be caused, for example, by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. Reversible can be for the lifetime 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 coloration cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition are irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., the induced (altered) colored state of the window cannot revert to its original colored state). In various EC devices, at least some (e.g., all) of the irreversibly bound ions can be used to compensate for "hidden charge" in 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 can be suitable. The 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 colorless 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 may facilitate controlling the environment of the enclosure so that the occupant of the enclosure may have an environment that is more comfortable, enjoyable, aesthetically pleasing, healthy, productive (e.g., in terms of occupant performance), easier to live in (e.g., easier to work in), or any combination thereof. The sensor(s) may be configured as low-resolution sensors or high-resolution sensors. The sensors may provide an on / off indication of the occurrence and / or presence or absence of a particular environmental event (e.g., a single pixel sensor). In some embodiments, the accuracy and / or resolution of the sensor may be improved through artificial intelligence analysis of its measurements. Examples of artificial intelligence techniques that may be used include reactive, limited memory, theory of mind, and / or self-awareness techniques known to those skilled in the art. The sensors 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., characteristics) of an environment (e.g., an enclosure). The gases may include volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The 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 at a factory setting. The sensors may be optimized to perform accurate measurements of one or more environmental characteristics present in the factory setting. In some cases, a factory-calibrated sensor may be conservatively optimized for operation in a target environment. For example, the factory setting may include an environment different from the target environment. The target environment may be an environment in which the sensor is deployed. The target environment may be an environment in which the sensor is expected to operate and / or for which it is intended to operate. The target environment may be different from the factory environment. The factory environment corresponds to the location where the sensor was assembled and / or built. The target environment may include a factory where the sensor was not assembled and / or built. In some cases, the factory settings may differ from the target environment to such an extent (e.g., to a measurable extent) that sensor readings obtained in the target environment are erroneous.In this context, "erroneous" may refer to a sensor reading that deviates from a particular accuracy (e.g., as specified by the sensor's manufacturer). In some situations, a factory-calibrated sensor may provide readings that do not meet the accuracy specification (e.g., by the manufacturer) when operated in a target environment.

[0107] In some embodiments, the sensor(s) are operably coupled to at least one controller and / or processor. Sensor readings may be obtained 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 input (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller may comprise circuitry, electrical wiring, optical wiring, sockets, and / or outlets. The controller may deliver output. 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. The local controller may control one or more targets (e.g., devices). For example, the local controller may be a window controller (e.g., controlling optically switchable windows), an enclosure controller, or a target (e.g., component) controller. For example, a controller may be part of a hierarchical control system (e.g., comprising a main controller that instructs 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., component) controller). The physical locations of the controller types within the hierarchical control system may change. For example, at a first time, a first processor may assume the role of the main controller, a second processor may assume the role of the network controller, and a third processor may assume the role of the local controller. At a second time, the second processor may assume the role of the main controller, the first processor may assume the role of the network controller, and the third processor may remain in the role of the local controller. At a third time, the third processor may assume the role of the main controller, the second processor may assume the role of the network controller, and the first processor may assume the role of the local controller.A controller can control one or more devices (e.g., directly coupled to a device). A controller can be located proximate to one or more devices it controls. For example, a controller can control an optically switchable device (e.g., an IGU), an antenna, a sensor, and / or an output device (e.g., a light source, a sound source, an odor source, a gas source, an HVAC outlet, or a heater). 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 can 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 can include 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 disposed within a facility. For example, a network controller may be assigned to a portion of a floor of a facility. A master controller may be coupled to one or more network controllers. A network controller may be disposed within a facility. A master controller can be located within a facility or outside a facility. A master controller may be disposed in the cloud. A controller may be part of or operably coupled to a building management system (abbreviated herein as "BMS"). 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 multiple-input multiple-output controller (MIMO).The controller may interpret received input signals. The controller may acquire data from one or more targets (e.g., components such as sensors). Acquiring may include receiving or extracting. Data may include measuring, estimating, determining, generating, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feedforward control. The control may include on-off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. The 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 operatively coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, voice recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. The output may include a display (e.g., a screen), speaker, or printer. The controller may perform real-time calculations (e.g., using sensor data and / or communication data, such as analysis of a cabling network). Network analysis may relate to communication speed, (e.g., electrical) power consumption, and / or communication density on the network (e.g., at a given time and / or over a given time frame). The controller (e.g., a control system) may utilize historical and / or third-party data for its control. The historical data may be for the facility, similar facilities, or different facilities.

[0108] FIG. 1 illustrates an example control system architecture 100 that includes 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 emitters), or any combination thereof. FIG. 1 illustrates an example 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. Arrows in FIG. 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 a wall or ceiling of the facility. Communication can be unidirectional or bidirectional. In the example shown in Figure 1, all communication arrows are meant to be bidirectional.

[0109] A controller may monitor and / or direct changes in (e.g., physical) operating conditions of the devices, software, and / or methods described herein. Control may include regulating, operating, limiting, directing, monitoring, adjusting, modulating, varying, altering, inhibiting, checking, directing, or managing. Controlled (e.g., by a controller) may include attenuating, modulating, altering, managing, inhibiting, disciplining, regulating, constraining, monitoring, manipulating, and / or directing. Control may include controlling a control variable (e.g., temperature, power, voltage, and / or profile). Control may include real-time control or offline control. Calculations utilized by a controller can be performed in real time and / or offline. A controller may be a manual controller or a non-manual controller. A controller may be an automatic controller. A controller may operate on demand. A controller may be a programmable controller. A controller may be programmed. A controller may include a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). The controller may receive an input (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller may deliver an output. 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, or a local controller (e.g., an enclosure controller or a window controller). The controller may receive one or more inputs. The controller may generate one or more outputs. The controller may be a single-input single-output controller (SISO) or a multiple-input multiple-output controller (MIMO). The controller may interpret received input signals. The controller may acquire data from one or more sensors. Acquiring may include receiving or extracting. Data may include measuring, estimating, determining, generating, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feedforward control.The control may include on-off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. The 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 may be operatively coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, voice recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. The output may include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer.

[0110] The methods, systems, and / or devices described herein may include a control system. The control system may be in communication with any of the devices (e.g., sensors) described herein. The sensors may be of the same type or different types, e.g., as described herein. For example, the control system may be in communication 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 targets (e.g., components) of the building management system. For example, the control system may adjust the energy supplied by a heating element and / or a cooling element. For example, the control system may adjust the speed of air flowing into and / or out of the enclosure through a vent. 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 (abbreviated herein as "CPU"). The processing unit may be a graphics processing unit (abbreviated herein as "GPU"). The controller(s) or control mechanism (e.g., comprising a computer system) may be programmed to implement one or more methods of the present disclosure. The processor may be programmed to implement the methods of the present disclosure. The controller may control at least one target (e.g., component) of the forming system and / or apparatus disclosed herein.

[0111] In some embodiments, multiple targets (e.g., devices) can be operatively (e.g., communicatively) coupled to a control system. The control system can include a hierarchy of controllers. A target can include an emitter, a sensor, or a window (e.g., an IGU). An emitter can include a light, a buzzer, a heater, an HVAC actuator, or an alarm. A target can be any target disclosed herein. At least two of the multiple targets can be of the same type. For example, two or more IGUs can be coupled to the control system. At least two of the multiple targets can be of different types. For example, a sensor and an emitter can be coupled to the control system. Sometimes, the multiple targets can include at least 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10,000, 50,000, 100,000, or 500,000 targets. The plurality of 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 in a multi-story building. At least some of the floors of a multi-story building may have targets controlled by the control system (e.g., at least some of the floors of a multi-story building may be controlled by the control system). For example, a multi-story building may have at least 2, 8, 10, 25, 50, 80, 100, 120, 140, or 160 floors controlled by the control system.The number of floors (e.g., 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 floors can be of an area of ​​at least about 150 square meters (m), 250 m, 500 m, 1000 m, 1500 m, or 2000 m. The floors can have an area between any of the aforementioned floor area values ​​(e.g., about 150 m to about 2000 m, about 150 m to about 500 m, about 250 m to about 1000 m, or about 1000 m to about 2000 m). The total length of cabling in a cabling network system can be at least approximately 500 feet ('), 1000', 10,000', or 100,000', 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 a communication network of an enclosure (e.g., a building) may 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 may be to provide data communication and, optionally, power vertically relative to the Earth (e.g., between floors of a multi-floor building). The function of the horizontal data plane may 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 the enclosure (e.g., a building) uses a vertical plane coupled to multiple horizontal data planes by control panels. At least one control panel may be provided for each horizontal data plane.

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

[0114] In certain embodiments, direct connection to a facility's (e.g., building's) infrastructure is provided via a power and / or communications dock in a device, such as a network adapter described herein. Wires connecting to the network adapter can be routed in various locations, such as within the walls of an enclosure (e.g., building). In certain embodiments, one or more wires are disposed in mullions above and / or below a window. In certain embodiments, one or more wires are disposed 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 communicatively coupled to a network). One or more network devices may be disposed on the same floor and / or different floors of a facility (e.g., a building). In particular embodiments, one or more floors (e.g., each) in a facility (e.g., a building) have a network device (such as a network switch and / or a network router). A network device may be connected to two or more links in the vertical data plane. The network device may be located in a control panel. In particular embodiments, the link medium (in the vertical plane) comprises and / or consists of one or more optical fibers. In particular embodiments, current-carrying wire(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 fiber(s) may be disposed in the horizontal and / or vertical data planes. The current-carrying wire(s), such as copper wire(s), may be provided as twisted pair and / or coaxial cable. In some embodiments, a (e.g., vertical) data plane includes fiber bundles connecting network devices (e.g., located on different floors of a facility (e.g., building)). As an example, (e.g., vertical) data plane links 213, 215, or 217 shown in FIG. 2 may include (e.g., each) a fiber bundle. In particular embodiments, at least one (e.g., each) fiber bundle may include at least 12, 24, 48, 96, or 114 optical fibers.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least some of the optical fiber(s) may be utilized for communications within the enclosure. At least some of the optical fiber(s) may be unused (e.g., unused fiber may be referred to herein as “dark fiber(s)”). In some examples, during or after installation, some fiber is used for information technology (IT) and / or other service infrastructure of the enclosure (e.g., a building), and some other fiber is “dark.” The dark fiber may be, at least temporarily, unused for the enclosure's IT and / or services (e.g., sensors, windows, HVAC, lighting, security). Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems may be abbreviated as “HVAC” herein. A service may include controlling the operation of one or more devices. The devices may include sensors, tintable windows, heaters, coolers (e.g., air conditioners), ventilation, 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. The dark fiber may be used to rent out services to tenants and / or other enclosure occupants. Examples of rented services may include Wi-Fi, cellular communications, streaming internet, and any other IT-related services utilized by residents and / or tenants.

[0117] In particular embodiments, the data plane has a topology (e.g., wires and / or devices operably coupled to the wires are arranged in a topology). The topology may 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 a data transmission medium and multiple nodes connected along the length of the data transmission medium (downstream from the control panel). In some examples, the transmission medium (e.g., a network cable such as coaxial and / or twisted pair cable) is located around part or all of the perimeter of a facility floor. In some examples, 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), optionally via network adapters. The end nodes may comprise any of the devices disclosed herein (e.g., sensors, emitters, tintable windows, HVAC systems, or lighting). In some examples, the electrical coupling is a cap, which is a passive device. The caps can provide electrical coupling between the network cables and the associated nodes (e.g., any one of the devices served by the horizontal data plane). In some embodiments, the electrical couplings are provided at regular intervals (e.g., approximately every 5 feet) such as at (e.g., vertical) mullions. The nodes can be infrastructure nodes. The infrastructure nodes can include floor controllers, Ethernet switches, and / or headends.

[0118] 15-18 herein illustrate embodiments of horizontal data planes using ring and / or star topologies.

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

[0120] 2, a control panel 207 is communicatively 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 communicatively coupled (e.g., connected) to access the network 203 by a physical communication and / or power link 204, which may include optical fiber and / or electrical wires. The control panel 207 is connected to an antenna 289 that is external to the building. The antenna 289 may be a receiving antenna (e.g., a donor antenna).

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

[0122] In the example shown in FIG. 2, horizontal data plane 219 includes network adapters 251a-251e. Network adapters (e.g., 251a) are coupled to communication lines and / or power lines (e.g., mains) 259 via distribution junctions (e.g., 290). Network adapter 251a is connected to a group 253 of targets (e.g., sensors and / or emitters) and to IGU 255, which may be an optically switchable window. Network adapter 251a is configured to provide power and data to group 253 of targets (also referred to herein as a "target ensemble") using, for example, a 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 third-party device 257. Providing the network connectivity may include logic implementing Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) to support, for example, PoE.

[0123] In the example shown in FIG. 2, control panel 207 is connected to network adapters 251a-251e by link (e.g., coaxial cable) 259. The connection may be by coaxial or other type of (e.g., electrical and / or optical) cable. Control panel 209 is connected to client nodes on horizontal data plane 221 by link (e.g., coaxial cable) 261. Control panel 211 is connected to client nodes on horizontal data plane 223 by link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263. In the example shown in FIG. 2, control panel 207 includes two headends 265a and 265b, a switch 267 (abbreviated herein as "SW"), and a distributed antenna system (abbreviated herein as "DAS") 269. The switch is operably coupled to (e.g., connected to) two edge distribution frame devices (abbreviated herein as "EDF"). Headend 265a is connected to multiple links (e.g., coaxial cables), such as link (e.g., coaxial cable) 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 cable(s) and / or electrical cable(s). DAS 269 is configured to control and / or communicate with one or more antennas, such as antenna 273 on 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 FIG. 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 a directional data communication protocol such as MoCA or d.hn). Other client nodes 275 a and 275 b are connected to the control panel 207 via power and / or communication links (eg, cables) 271 .Headends 265a and 265b are configured to transmit and / or receive data encoded according to one or more protocols, including (i) the Next Generation Home Networking Protocol (abbreviated herein as the “G.hn” protocol), (ii) a communications technology that transmits digital information over wires traditionally used for (e.g., only) power delivery, or (iii) hardware devices designed for communication and transfer of data over a building's electrical wiring (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi). The data transfer protocol may facilitate data transmission rates 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 may operate over telephone wiring, coaxial cable, electrical wire, and / or (e.g., plastic) optical fiber. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using chips (e.g., including semiconductor devices). In the example shown in FIG. 2, horizontal data plane 221 includes network adapter 277 connected to control panel 209 by link (e.g., coaxial cable) 279. Horizontal data plane 221 includes physical power lines (e.g., 48V DC) and / or (power and / or communication) lines 281 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to control panel 209. Horizontal data plane 223 includes, in addition to link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263, a second link (e.g., coaxial cable) 283 for connecting control panel 211 to one or more network adapters or other client nodes (not shown). Horizontal data plane 223 includes physical (e.g., power and / or communication) lines 285 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to control panel 211. Control panel 211 is also connected to a (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 (e.g., via the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MocA) protocol), and / or any one or more of a variety of cellular protocols such as fourth-generation (4G) and / or fifth-generation (5G) cellular communications. 4G communications may conform to the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standard. The control panel may include one or more network switches, gateways, and / or routers.

[0125] In some embodiments, a cabling network includes at least one distribution junction (referred to herein as a "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 a network infrastructure. A distribution junction may couple two or more circuits together. As an example, a distribution junction may couple together at least two of an upstream circuit, a downstream circuit, and a branch circuit. The upstream circuit and the downstream circuit may be part of a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk). In some embodiments, a bus is a subsystem used to connect targets (e.g., components) and 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 and passive targets (e.g., components). A distribution junction may include one or more paths within the upstream circuit, downstream circuit, and branch circuit electrically coupled together. The distribution junction may include 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 passive component(s) and no active components.

[0126] In some embodiments, the active distribution junction includes circuitry (e.g., electrical circuitry). The circuitry within the active distribution junction may include signal repeaters, range extenders, signal transponders, amplifiers, preamplifiers, power management circuitry, and / or a microprocessor. The power management circuitry may control (e.g., monitor and / or manage) the (e.g., DC) power flow 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 dynamic network size change option may provide for dynamic extension and / or contraction of the network. The dynamic network size change option facilitates the formation of flexible networks, for example, with respect to their size and / or target connectivity 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 the network (e.g., along a network bus) and / or (ii) negotiating the power consumption of targets (e.g., components) coupled to the 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, for example, 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. The at least one transformer may couple one or more time-varying signals between two or more circuits (e.g., between 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 the distribution junction using a transformer. Impedance matching can help reduce (e.g., eliminate) unwanted signal reflections from the distribution junction within the network infrastructure. The transformer may include 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 a different number 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 the time-varying signal in a balanced or unbalanced manner. A balancing transformer may receive a time-varying signal at a first circuit and divide the signal evenly among multiple circuits. Equal division of a signal among multiple circuits may result in signals in each of the multiple circuits being approximately (e.g., measurably) equal. For example, a balancing transformer may receive a time-varying signal at a first circuit and divide the signal equally (e.g., approximately half of the original power) among a second circuit and a third circuit. An unbalancing transformer may receive a time-varying signal at a first circuit and divide the signal unevenly among multiple circuits. Unequal division of a signal among multiple circuits may result in signals in at least two of the multiple circuits being different. For example, an unbalancing transformer may divide a signal from a first circuit at a first percentage (e.g., 85%) of the original power (e.g., electrical power) to a second circuit and at a second percentage (e.g., 15%) of the original power to a third circuit. The first and second percentages may not be equal and may add up to approximately 100% (e.g., a reduction of less than 100%). When the first circuit signal (100%) is divided unequally between the second circuit and the third circuit, 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.When the first circuit signal (100%) is divided unequally between the second and third circuits, the second circuit can receive any signal percentage value between the aforementioned percentage values ​​(e.g., about 1% to about 40%, about 1% to about 20%, or about 20% to about 40%) from the first circuit, and the third circuit can receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit. The second circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving the lower signal strength) can be a branch circuit, and the third circuit can be a downstream circuit, e.g., so that the majority of the signal remains along the network bus. In other embodiments, the first circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving the higher signal strength) can be a branch circuit, e.g., so that the majority of the signal travels 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, high-pass, and / or band-pass filters. The filters may serve to minimize (block) particular frequencies from a branch circuit (e.g., if such frequencies are not utilized by that branch circuit) and / or particular frequencies from downstream circuits (e.g., if downstream circuits do not utilize such frequencies). By minimizing (e.g., blocking) such frequencies (e.g., signal portions), the filters can reduce noise in a network, for example, as signals propagate through the network (e.g., through a bus).

[0130] In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes frequency shifting functionality. For example, the control panel and distribution junction may frequency shift one or more of the time-varying signals as they travel through the network to reduce interference. The signals may be shifted to a region of the spectrum available on an unused medium (e.g., coaxial cable). The distribution junction may include passive or active targets (e.g., components) that remove this frequency shift as they carry signals from the network bus to the branch circuits and insert this frequency shift as they carry signals from the branch circuits to the network bus. The control panel may include a G.hn headend (or other target (e.g., component)) that adds and removes frequency shift from the time-varying signals as they are transmitted and received by the control panel.

[0131] In some embodiments, one or more antennas are coupled to the network. The antennas may be external and / or internal to the 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 may be referred to herein as a "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 thereof through one or more splitter junctions. The signal from the antenna may travel a distance through a cable, resulting in, for example, a reduced signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., a reduced signal strength compared to the noise. The signal from the antenna may travel through one or more splitter junctions, resulting in, for example, a reduced signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., a reduced signal strength compared to the noise. The network may include preamplifiers and / or amplifiers (e.g., to increase the signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., to increase the signal strength compared to the noise). The amplifier and / or preamplifier may be (i) located adjacent to the antenna, (ii) part of the antenna circuitry, (iii) part of the controller (e.g., in the control panel), (iv) operably coupled to the controller, (v) adjacent to the distribution junction, and / or (vi) operably coupled to the distribution junction. The antenna may be active. The antenna may include an amplifier and / or preamplifier. In the example shown in FIG. 2, antenna 273 is connected to control panel 207 via head 265a. However, the antenna may be communicatively coupled to a cable (e.g., coaxial and / or trunk 265a). The antenna may be connected to the trunk before any distribution junctions (e.g., 290) and / or other targets (e.g., devices such as 253). Without being bound by theory, connecting the antenna to the trunk before any distribution junctions and / or devices may reduce signal loss (relative to noise).The amplifier and / or preamplifier may be included in a control panel, for example, in a floor controller. In some embodiments, the network bus includes a head end. One or more devices (e.g., antennas) may be coupled to the network bus. The antenna may be a high-frequency antenna. The antenna may operate in a frequency range from about 700 MHz to about 2100 MHz. The antenna may be coupled closer to the head end than other devices (e.g., upstream thereof). As an example, a first device on the network bus (e.g., the branch circuit closest to the head end) may be an antenna. The antenna may operate at least about 3.56 GHz, a 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 signals 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, for example, with a first low-pass filter disposed in the downstream circuit. The first low-pass filter may attenuate (e.g., block) signals in the downstream circuit having a frequency above the frequency of the antenna (e.g., about 3.20 GHz). A lower-frequency (e.g., 700 MHz) antenna may be connected to the network bus, for example, at a second splitter junction having a second low-pass filter in the downstream circuit. The second low-pass filter may attenuate (e.g., block) signals in the downstream circuit having a frequency above the frequency of the antenna (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 than a limited number of splitter junctions (e.g., one, two, etc.). The number of splitter junctions through which the high-frequency signals pass may be a single-digit integer (e.g., up to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 splitter junctions). As a result, the antenna may receive a higher signal strength (e.g., a higher signal-to-noise ratio). Additionally, high frequency noise from downstream reflections and / or other sources may be reduced (eg, eliminated).

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

[0133] FIG. 3 shows a detailed electronic diagram of distribution junction 301 as 310. Detailed electronic diagram 310 includes a transformer that divides the power of the time-varying signal between the upstream circuit, downstream circuit, and branch circuit. In the example shown in FIG. 3, distribution junction 310 includes first and second inductors that couple (e.g., DC) power between the upstream circuit, downstream circuit, and branch circuit. The branch circuit of distribution junction 310 is coupled to the highest frequency antenna, and distribution junction 310 includes a low-pass filter. In the example shown in FIG. 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) signals 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 in distribution junction 310 includes a first winding 361, a second winding 362, and a third winding 363. Windings 361, 362, and 363 are wound on a common core. Figure 3 shows an example of a distribution junction 380 connecting three coaxial cables.

[0134] In some embodiments, a cabling network includes a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk) and branch cables. The network bus and branch cables may 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 of multiple circuits coupled together. A first circuit of the network bus may couple together a controller (e.g., controller 306 in FIG. 3 ) and a distribution junction (e.g., distribution junction 301 in FIG. 3 ). A second circuit and subsequent circuits of the network bus may couple together each pair of distribution junctions (e.g., the pair of distribution junctions 301, 302, and 303). Branch cables (e.g., branch cables 351, 352, and 352) may couple the branch circuits to each distribution junction.

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

[0136] The network bus and branch cables may transmit power at any desired nominal voltage (e.g., DC). As an example, the network bus and branch cables may transmit power (e.g., DC) at 12V, 23V, or 48 volts (V). The network bus and branch cables may comply with any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class, such as Class 0, I, II, or Ill. As an example, the network bus and branch cables may comply with IEC Class II and therefore carry up to 100 VA, i.e., 100 watts. The network bus and branch cables may have a wire thickness (e.g., 12, 14, 16, or 18 gauge) sufficient to carry the required current. The network bus and branch cables may include shielding (e.g., foil shielding, braided shielding, or quad shielding), for example, to reduce crosstalk and / or interference. The network bus and branch cable may include (e.g., 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 cable, or another type of cable. The network bus and / or branch cable may distribute any desired number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) of distinct time-varying signal frequency sets. The time-varying signal frequency sets may be distributed into non-overlapping frequency windows. As an example, the network bus and / or branch cable may distribute a first set of time-varying signal frequencies into one or more first frequency windows and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies into one or more second frequency windows. The frequency windows (of both the first and second sets) may be separated in the frequency domain (e.g., there may be guard bands between the frequency windows). In some embodiments, some frequency windows (of the first and / or second sets) are not separated by guard bands and / or partially overlap in the frequency domain (e.g., the end of one frequency window touches the beginning of another frequency window, e.g., 526 and 529 in FIG. 5).In general, separating adjacent frequency windows with guard bands reduces noise and / or interference and may also reduce the cost and complexity of network components (e.g., cables, filters, distribution junctions, etc.).

[0137] The first time-varying signal set distributed by the 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 a communication technology that transmits digital information over power lines used to deliver (e.g., deliver only) electrical power. The first time-varying signal set may include signals configured to be transmitted by hardware devices designed for data communication and transfer over a building's electrical wiring (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi). The first time-varying signal set may include signals configured to be transmitted by a data transfer protocol facilitating data transmission rates of at least 1 megahertz (MHz), 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 50 MHz, 10 MHz, 500 MHz, 1 gigabit per second (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, 4 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s. The data transfer protocol may operate over telephone wiring, coaxial cable, electrical wire, and / or (e.g., plastic) optical fiber. 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). By way of example, the first frequency window may range from about 500 MHz to about 600 MHz, from about 875 MHz to about 1 GHz, or from about 1.15 to about 1.5 GHz.

[0138] The second set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include radio frequency signals. The second time-varying signals may include signals for reception by or transmission through an antenna. The second frequency window may range from about 600 MHz to about 1 GHz, from about 1.4 GHz to about 6 GHz, or from about 1.7 GHz to about 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, 4G and 5G cellular network signals include signals below about 6 GHz. The ranges of the first and second time-varying signal sets may overlap. The ranges of the first and second time-varying signal sets may be separated. The separation may be achieved by a signal domain not occupied by the first time-varying signal or the second time-varying signal.

[0139] FIG. 4 illustrates a network cable 400. Network buses and branch cables within the cabling networks disclosed herein may be formed from the network cable 400. The network cable 400 includes an inner conductor 401, an insulator 402 (also referred to as a dielectric), an outer conductor 403, and an insulator 404 (also referred to as a jacket or shell). The outer conductor 403 may function as a ground path. The inner conductor 401 may carry direct current (DC). Electromagnetic fields carrying signals are transmitted in (e.g., primarily or exclusively in) the space between the inner conductor 401 and the outer conductor 403. A coaxial cable may protect signals from external electromagnetic interference (e.g., may reduce external electromagnetic interference to signals transmitted in the coaxial cable). For example, network cable 400 may 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] 5 illustrates various frequency ranges 500, 510, and 520 of distinct signal range segments along a frequency range that may be conveyed by network cable 400. Frequency range 500 includes DC signals 501, a first set of time-varying signal frequencies 502 (e.g., control-related communications), and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies 504 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communications). First and second sets of time-varying signal frequencies 502 and 503 are separated by a frequency guard band 503 (e.g., not including time-varying signals). Frequency range 510 includes DC signals 511, a first set of time-varying signal frequencies 512 (e.g., control-related communications), a second set of time-varying signal frequencies 514 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communications), a third set of time-varying signal frequencies 516 (e.g., control-related communications), and a fourth set of time-varying signal frequencies 518 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communications). Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 separate each pair of time-varying signals. Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 may not contain time-varying signals. At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets may transmit the same type of signal (e.g., signal frequency sets 512 and 516 may be reserved for transmitting control-related communications). At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets may transmit different types of signals (e.g., signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for transmitting control-related communications, and frequency set 514 may be reserved for transmitting media-related communications). By way of example, time-varying signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for data signals from about 2 to about 200 MHz (e.g., compliant with the G.hn protocol). By way of further example, time-varying signal frequency set 516 may be reserved for data signals from about 1.2 to about 1.5 GHz compliant with the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) 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] Signal frequency range 520 of discernible signal frequencies includes DC signal 521, first time-varying signal frequency set 522, second time-varying signal frequency set 524, third time-varying signal frequency set 526, and fourth time-varying signal frequency set 529. Guard band 523 represents a relatively wide spectral guard band (e.g., no signal) between signals 522 and 524. Guard band 525 represents a relatively narrow spectral guard band (e.g., no signal) between signals 524 and 526. A distinct guard band 527 separates signal sets 526 and 529. Guard band 527 may have a width of a single frequency (fewer than 10 signal frequencies) or may have zero frequency range (thus signal sets 526 and 529 may touch each other). Time-varying signal 529 may be separated from time-varying signal frequency set 530 by notch guard 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 increasing amplitudes, such as at 502, stabilizing amplitudes, and decreasing amplitudes). The slopes of the increases and decreases may have the same absolute value. The slopes of the increases and decreases may have different absolute values. A signal frequency set may be a frequency window within which a set of signal frequencies is permitted to be transmitted along a transmission line (e.g., coaxial cable). Frequencies for transmission (e.g., frequencies for media-related communications) may conform to communications standards permitted in a jurisdiction. Maintaining and / or facilitating the division into frequency domains (e.g., frequency windows or signal frequency sets) may include utilizing one or more signal filters. For example, facilitating a wide guard band (e.g., 503) may require a distinct (e.g., 527 and 528) and / or short (e.g., 525) band gap, or a less precise (e.g., less expensive) filter than a filter facilitating a distinct frequency domain division.

[0142] In particular embodiments, the network infrastructure may include one or more network adapters. The 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, the network adapters are coupled to respective branch cables (also referred to as branches) and / or network buses (also referred to as trunks) 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). 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 alternatively or additionally be configured to provide power (e.g., DC power) to downstream targets (e.g., devices). The power may be at a voltage of at least about 24 volts (V), 48 V, or 96 V. The power may be at a voltage of up to about 24 V, 48 V, or 96 V. An end node coupled to a network adapter may receive power from and / or send and receive data via the connected network adapter. For example, a digital architecture element (e.g., including a tintable window) may (i) be connected to the 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. The sensor(s) may be coupled to the network infrastructure, for example, via a connected network adapter. Nodes capable of using power and / or data network communications (including high-speed data communications) may be coupled to the network infrastructure, for example, via a network adapter. At least some of the cabling system and its components may support at least approximately 50 watts (W), 100 W, 200 W, 400 W, 600 W, 1000 W, or 5000 W of power.

[0144] In some embodiments, the cabling network may include 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 comprise one or more network components for processing (e.g., DC) power. The power may be AC ​​power or DC power. The power processing network components may include one or more (e.g., DC-DC) converters. The network comprises DC-AC, AC-DC, AC-AC, or DC-DC converters. The converters may be operably coupled to or part of the network adapter. The DC-DC converter may be configured to convert a DC voltage received from the network bus to a different voltage (e.g., a higher voltage and / or a 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 in the network adapter may be used internally by the network adapter (e.g., to power internal network components such as a processor, interface, and controller) and / or externally (e.g., to provide power to an end node). The network adapter may provide power to one or more end nodes, for example, via an adapter or connector. As an example, the network adapter may provide DC power to a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, combiner, and / or injector. The Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, combiner, and / or injector may provide DC power to the end nodes, for example, via twisted-pair Ethernet cabling. The DC processing network component may include one or more filters and / or power conditioning devices. As an example, the DC processing network component may include one or more inductors configured to block time-varying signals between the end nodes, the network bus, and / or the DC-DC converter.

[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 (e.g., 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 may encode and decode data transmitted on the network bus. When the network bus utilizes a data protocol (e.g., a G.Hn protocol or a MoCA protocol), the interface for coupling to the network bus may be a data interface (also referred to as a data controller). For example, when the network bus utilizes a G.Hn protocol (as an example), the interface for coupling to the network bus may be a G.Hn interface (also referred to as a G.Hn controller). The interface for coupling to one or more end nodes may include, for example, (i) a data and / or power interface and (ii) an architecture element interface. The generic data and / or power interface may be, for example, an Ethernet interface or a Power over Ethernet network interface. The Ethernet interface and the Power over Ethernet network interface may be referred to as an Ethernet controller and a Power over Ethernet controller, respectively. An example of an architecture element interface may include a window controller (which is a type of local controller). The window controller may provide one or more signals to a tintable window effect to adjust the tint of the tintable window, for example, in response to a tint command. The tint command may be generated internally by the window controller (e.g., in response to logic programmed into the window controller) or may be received over a network bus from a higher-level window controller in the hierarchy of controllers.The window controller may, for example, receive signals from the tintable window and / or from any connected sensors. The connected sensors may be associated with sensed environmental conditions (e.g., weather conditions such as sunlight and / or cloudy weather) and / or the tint state of the tintable window. The window controller may use such signals internally (e.g., when generating tinting commands) or may communicate 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 fundamental length scale may be width, length, height, diameter of a circle, or diameter of a bounding circle, and may be abbreviated herein as "FLS." The fundamental length scale of the network adapter may be up to approximately 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., from about 1 cm to about 50 cm, from about 1 cm to about 10 cm, or from about 10 cm to about 50 cm). In some embodiments, no dimension exceeds about 12 inches, or no dimension exceeds about 10 inches. As an example, the network adapter may have dimensions of about 1.5 inches by about 0.75 inches by about 6 inches. In certain embodiments, the network adapter fits within at least a portion of a window frame (e.g., mullion and / or bar), 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 communications from, for example, a headend or control panel. The network adapter may connect to a window or any other target. The target may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device, such as a digital architecture element. The control panel may include circuitry disposed on one or more electronic 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 non-transparent portions. The housing may include a hardened material (e.g., elemental spirit, metal alloy, polymer, resin, glass, or an allotrope of elemental carbon). The housing may include a composite material. The housing may have one or more perforations. The housing may have a window and / or a door. The housing may have a cover. The cover may be snapped (e.g., reversibly) onto the body of the housing.

[0147] In some embodiments, the network adapter includes frequency shifting functionality. As an example, the network adapter may transmit and / or receive signals over a (e.g., coaxial) cable on which the signals are frequency shifted. An interface, controller, or other element 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., branch circuit). In this type of arrangement (e.g., using frequency shifting components), signaling protocols with overlapping frequency windows can be utilized without interference. As an example, control-related and / or media-related signals (e.g., under the MoCA protocol and 4G and / or 5G signals) may overlap if not shifted, and may not overlap if shifted by a network component, such as a network adapter, distribution junction, and / or control panel (e.g., headend) with frequency shifting functionality.

[0148] 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 onto a (e.g., coaxial) cable 605 (e.g., a network bus) having a grounded sheath and inner conductor. Power and data may be carried by the (e.g., coaxial) cable. Examples of connectors to (e.g., coaxial) cables are described herein (see, e.g., the description of distribution junction 310 in FIG. 3).

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

[0150] The (e.g., DC) power from the (e.g., coaxial) cable is split at point 629. The power then passes through inductor choke 607 to line (e.g., cable(s)) 609. Inductor choke 607 allows the DC current to pass 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 provided to DC / DC converter 611 (also called a DC-DC converter). DC / DC converter 611 is configured to provide DC power at a voltage configured for internal operation of the network adapter. The DC power can be used by one or more processors and other targets (e.g., elements) within or coupled to the network adapter, such as PoE power injection circuitry 617, local (e.g., Windows) controller 621, interface 623, (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625, and processor 627.

[0151] A portion of the DC current on line 609 is provided to DC / DC converter 613. DC / DC converter 613 may be a (e.g., 48V) restoration circuit. 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 Power over Ethernet circuitry. Inductor 615 levels the DC voltage provided by DC / DC converter 613 and attenuates (e.g., blocks) time-varying signals to prevent them from flowing toward DC / DC converter 613. Network adapter 600 is configured such that current on the leg containing the specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts) is delivered by inductor 615 to Power over Ethernet circuitry 617, which is configured to restore the circuit (DC / DC converter 613) and make power available for transmission on the physical line (e.g., capable of carrying Ethernet-formatted data). Power over Ethernet circuitry 617 is electrically connected to connector 619 in a manner that allows delivery of electrical current at a specified voltage (eg, 48 volts) to one or more end devices that connect to connector 619 .

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

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

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

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

[0156] Optional local (e.g., window) controller 621 is bidirectionally coupled to microprocessor 627 and cable 622 (e.g., window cable). In some embodiments, local (e.g., window) controller 621 is configured to perform some or all of the functions of a window controller (also referred to herein as a local controller). By way of example, 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 the electrochromic device, (ii) receive and / or process sensor readings, and / or (iii) receive current and / or voltage readings from the electrochromic device. Examples of local (e.g., window) controller functionality are provided in (1) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 449,248, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," (2) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 449,251, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," (3) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 334,835, filed October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES," and (4) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 334,832, filed October 26, 2016, entitled "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. The control panels may provide one or more links to other control panel(s) within a building's (e.g., vertical and / or horizontal) data plane. The control panels may include a network switch, such as an Ethernet switch, configured to communicate between the control panels. The control panels may be located on the same floor of different floors. For example, the network switch may be configured to communicate between control panels on different floors of a building. As an example, the control panels may include a network switch (e.g., located within and / or between floors) configured to provide network communications (e.g., Ethernet communications) 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. The control panels may be connected to optical fiber(s) during installation for inter-floor and / or intra-floor communications.

[0158] In some examples, 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 is absent of a control panel). In certain embodiments, the control panels are located in elevator pier areas or in another area (e.g., piers) with dedicated mechanical and / or electrical controls and / or other infrastructure (e.g., electrical rooms with circuit breakers). In certain embodiments, the control panel(s) on a floor(s) are connected to a main controller. The main controller may be disposed within the building. For example, the main controller may be disposed in the basement of the building or in some dedicated area of ​​the building (e.g., the first or top floor). The main controller may be a primary control panel. The primary control panel may have more computing resources (e.g., processing power and memory and storage capabilities) 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 with the rest of the control panels in a redundant manner (e.g., using two or more optical fibers) so that failure of a single link does not disconnect all of the 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 a linear, star, or circular network topology. 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 a particular physical and / or link layer protocol (such as the G.hn protocol and / or MoCA). The G.hn protocol may enable transmission of data over any wire medium. Data rates within the G.hn protocol may range from approximately 100 megabits per second up to approximately 1.7 Gb / s. The G.hn protocol may utilize signals from approximately 2 MHz to approximately 200 MHz. As implemented herein, the G.hn protocol can tolerate cables with defects (eg, defects caused by tapping a bus line to a branch line, such as via a distribution junction).

[0160] In some embodiments, the control panel includes at least one communications 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 a (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. A communications (e.g., G.hn) headend may be configured to identify its assigned portion of the frequency spectrum to use for communications, e.g., to avoid accidentally using a low-power portion of the spectrum. In particular embodiments, communications (e.g., G.hn) data is transmitted in a point-to-multipoint manner on the horizontal and / or vertical data planes. In some embodiments, a master (G.hn headend) transmits data to multiple slave nodes (end nodes on the horizontal and / or vertical data planes). In particular embodiments, slave nodes do not communicate directly with each other. In particular embodiments, slave nodes communicate directly among themselves.

[0161] In particular embodiments, data plane (e.g., horizontal) infrastructure such as, for example, a control panel, cabling such as coaxial cable, and network adapters are used to provide power to nodes on the network. In particular embodiments, power (e.g., provided at approximately 48 volts DC) is injected into cables (e.g., coaxial cable) used for the data plane (e.g., horizontal). In particular embodiments, the control panel includes a power manager. The power manager may be configured to control power distribution to individual network adapters and / or end nodes on the network. Individual network adapters or other nodes may be provided with power according to a protocol implemented in the power manager. In some protocols, end nodes are not permitted to draw power whenever they desire. 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 delivered power on the system does not exceed some threshold, such as a threshold set for a particular electrical standard in a jurisdiction (e.g., 100 W for a Class 2 network in the United States). In some embodiments, one or more end nodes connected to a network are not allowed to draw power (or are allowed to draw only a limited amount of power) until they negotiate power with the power manager. The power manager or another network component may form a virtual network with the end nodes for purposes of power negotiation and / or network authentication.

[0162] In certain embodiments, the power management protocol uses a defined set of communications between the power manager and one or more network adapters or nodes. For example, a request for power may be issued by the network adapter, and a request for information may be issued by the power manager. Data including the timing and / or conditions of power delivery may be issued from the power manager before power is actually delivered. In certain embodiments, such communications are provided using a (e.g., G.hn) communications protocol. Power over Ethernet may be implemented with its own protocol. In certain embodiments, Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is used to provide the relevant communications for power management, regardless of whether or not the Power over Ethernet protocol is used.

[0163] FIG. 7 shows an example of a control panel 700. The control panel 700 includes a pair of switches 701 and 702. The switches 701 and 702 are coupled to an optical fiber 710. The optical fiber 710 can connect to other control panels (located on the same floor or other floors of a building) in a network. The optical fiber 710 can include, for example, fibers 204, 213, 215, and 217 in FIG. 2. The 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, e.g., the description of the network controller 106 in FIG. 1). The control panel 700 further includes first and second communication (abbreviated as "comm." in FIG. 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 distinguishable 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 FIG. 2 ). The communication headends 704 and 705 may include, e.g., 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 control panel 700, including switches 701 and 702, floor controller 703, and / or communications 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).PDU 706 may provide remote, network-based control of (e.g., electrical) power distribution to individual powered targets (e.g., components). Thus, PDU 706 may be used to remotely power on and off various targets (e.g., components) receiving power via 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 (abbreviated herein as "EDF") may be coupled to a control panel (e.g., a control panel on each floor). The edge distribution frame may be in electrical and / or data communication with the control panel. As an example, one or more (e.g., combined) cables may be provided that include current conductor(s), communication cable(s), and / or one or more optical fibers. The current conductor(s) may transmit electrical power (e.g., from the control panel to the edge distribution frame). The current conductor communication cable(s) and / or optical fiber(s) may transmit analog signals and / or digital data between the control panel and the edge distribution frame(s). The edge distribution frame(s) may provide wireless communication capabilities (e.g., including cellular communication and / or Wi-Fi) in their immediate vicinity. The edge distribution frames may form a network (e.g., on some or all of a building's floors) that may overlap with other cabling networks (e.g., coaxial cable-containing wiring networks that provide wired and / or wireless connectivity).

[0165] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of an enclosure 800 (e.g., a floor of a building) including a network of edge distribution frames (EDFs). As shown in the example of FIG. 8, a network of EDFs 802a-e may be distributed throughout the enclosure (e.g., a floor of a building). The EDFs 802a-e may include antennas, modems, and / or radios to provide wireless connectivity (e.g., cellular and / or Wi-Fi connectivity) and detect signals from most (e.g., all) of the building's floors. The EDFs 802a-e may be in electrical and / or data communication with a control panel 800. The EDFs 802a-e are coupled to a control panel 850 via respective cables 802a-e. Links (e.g., cables) 804a-e may be combined cables including current-carrying conductors and data communications (e.g., coaxial cables or cable combinations with one or more optical fibers), thereby providing power and data connectivity to the EDFs 802a-e. As shown in FIG. 8, the enclosure includes other cabling networks, such as a coaxial cable-based network. 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 throughout at least a portion of the enclosure, such as throughout the enclosure, and their reception zones overlap in space with portions of the coverage areas of the EDFs 802a-e. FIG. 8 also shows a remote radio head (RRH) 810. The remote radio head may be, for example, a cellular antenna or radio mounted outside the enclosure. The remote radio head may thereby provide connectivity to a network outside the enclosure. The RRH 810 may be connected to a control panel 850 via an ID 812 and a link (e.g., cable) 814. The link (e.g., cable) 814 may be a combined cable including current-carrying conductors and / or communication transmission cables, such as coaxial cable or optical fiber. The ID 812 may include radios, amplifiers, preamplifiers, switches, and / or other network devices that support the RRH 810.

[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. As an example, the 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 FIG. 9. In the example of FIG. 9, control panels 901a-901d are each located on a different floor of a 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 themselves redundant (e.g., formed from a pair of optical fibers (or other cabling media)). Network 900 also includes a cell modem 902 that connects the network to an external cellular network. Network 900 includes a redundant connection to infrastructure 904 (e.g., another network, whether internal or external to the enclosure in which network 900 is located).

[0168] In some embodiments, a network may have multiple control panels on multiple floors of a building. Thus, a single floor may have a horizontal data plane (e.g., a coaxial bus line and an edge data frame network) served by two or more control panels. An example of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 10. As shown in FIG. 10, a first floor of a building includes control panels 1001a and 1001b coupled by a pair of lines (e.g., optical fiber) to provide redundancy. A second floor of the building includes control panels 1001c and 1001d, a third floor of the building includes control panels 1001e and 1001f, and a fourth floor of the building includes control panels 1001g and 1001h. Control panels 1001a-h are coupled to infrastructure 1004 (e.g., another network, whether internal or external to the enclosure in which 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 of the two sets of control panels can be made in separate risers within the building.

[0169] Additional configurations of building network infrastructure are shown in the examples of FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C. FIG. 11A shows an example in which control panel panels 1101a-d are connected using redundant loops. Specifically, there are two vertical links between control panels on adjacent floors and two vertical links between control panels on the top and bottom floors. In addition, control panel 1101a is redundantly coupled to infrastructure 1104 (e.g., another network, whether inside or outside the enclosure in which network 900 is located). The first floor of the building includes control panel 1101a, the second floor of the building includes control panel 1101b, the third floor of the building includes control panel 1101c, and the fourth floor of the building includes control panel 1101d. FIG. 11B shows an example in which 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. A first floor of a building includes control panels 1102a and 1102e, a second floor of the building includes control panels 1102b and 1102f, a third floor of the building includes control panels 1102c and 1102g, and a fourth floor of the building 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. 11C illustrates an example in which each floor of a building includes two control panels, there is one redundant loop in the vertical data plane, and some (e.g., all) of the building's floors have redundant loops. Specifically, control panels 1103a-d are connected together in a redundant loop 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 in respective redundant loops in the horizontal data plane.A first floor of the building includes control panels 1103a and 1103e, a second floor of the building includes control panels 1103b and 1103f, a third floor of the building includes control panels 1103c and 1103g, and a fourth floor of the building includes control panels 1103d and 1103h. Control panel 1103a 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 one or more window control systems, such as electrochromic (e.g., tintable) windows. The control system may include 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 to herein as "optically switchable windows," "tintable windows," or "smart windows"), the concepts disclosed herein may be applied to other types of switchable optical devices, such as, for example, 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 refers to, for example, a change (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) in at least one optical property of a window upon application of a stimulus. The stimulus may include an optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimulus. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows may be used to control lighting and / or glare conditions, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating therethrough. One or more tintable windows may be used to control temperature within a building, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating therethrough. Control of solar energy may control the heat load imposed on the interior of a facility (e.g., a building). Control may be manual and / or automatic. Control may be used to maintain one or more desired (e.g., environmental) conditions, e.g., occupant comfort. Control may include reducing energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be driven by separate systems. At least two of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be driven by a single system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be conducted by a single system (abbreviated herein as "HVAC"). In some cases, tintable windows may respond to one or more environmental sensors and user controls. Tintable windows may comprise (e.g., be electrochromic windows). Windows may be located anywhere from the interior to the exterior of a structure (e.g., a facility, e.g., a building). However, this need not be the case. Tintable windows may operate using liquid crystal devices, suspended particle devices, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices (such as microshutters), or any now known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through a window.Windows with tinting MEMS devices are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 443,353, filed May 15, 2015, entitled "MULTIL-PANE WINDOWS INCLUDING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES AND ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DEVICES," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, one or more tintable windows can be located inside a building, for example, between a conference room and a foyer. In some cases, one or more tintable windows can be used in automobiles, trains, airplanes, and other vehicles, for example, in place of passive and / or non-tinted windows.

[0171] In some embodiments, the tintable window comprises an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an "EC device" (abbreviated herein as ECD), or "EC"). The EC device can include at least one coating including at least one layer. The at least one layer can include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another optical state, for example, upon application of an electric potential to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another optical state can be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another optical state can be caused, for example, by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. Reversible can be for the lifetime 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 coloration cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition are irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., the induced (altered) colored state of the window cannot revert to its original colored state). In various EC devices, at least some (e.g., all) of the irreversibly bound ions can be used to compensate for "hidden charge" in the material (e.g., ECD).

[0172] 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 can be suitable. The intercalation of cations can be with (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 coloring (e.g., color) of the oxide. For example, the oxide can transition from a colorless state to a colored state. For example, the intercalation of lithium ions into 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.

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

[0174] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to reversibly (e.g., substantially) cycle between a clear state and a colored state. Reversible can be within the useful life of the ECD. The useful life can be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The useful life can 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 available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material to change to a colored state are primarily present at the counter electrode. When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions can be transported across the ion-conducting layer to the electrochromic material, causing the material to change to 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 examples of electrochromic transitions that may be implemented. Unless otherwise specified herein, whenever reference is made to a clear-colored transition, 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 an optically neutral state, e.g., an uncolored, transparent, and / or translucent state. In some embodiments, the "color" or "coloration" of an electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or wavelength range. Selection of appropriate electrochromic and counterelectrode materials can affect the associated optical transition (e.g., from a colored state to a non-colored state).

[0176] In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the materials comprising the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (e.g., solid-state), or inorganic and solid. Because various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat and UV light, such as tinted building windows, inorganic materials offer the advantage of a reliable electrochromic stack that can function for extended periods of time. In some embodiments, solid-state materials, as liquid-state materials sometimes do, can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and minimized leakage issues. One or more of the layers in the stack may contain some (e.g., measurable) organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain little or no measurable organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids, which may be present in small amounts. A small amount may be up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid-state materials may be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes that employ liquid components, such as certain processes that employ sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0177] In some embodiments, an IGU includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, an IGU can include two panes of glass. At least one substrate of the IGU can include an electrochromic device disposed thereon. One or more panes of the IGU can have a separator disposed therebetween. The IGU can be hermetically sealed, e.g., having an interior region isolated from the ambient environment. A "window assembly" can include an IGU. A "window assembly" can include a (e.g., stand-alone) laminate. A "window assembly" can include, for example, one or more electrical leads for connecting the IGU and / or the laminate. The electrical leads can operably couple (e.g., connect) the one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, a switch, etc., and can include a frame supporting the IGU or the laminate. A window assembly can include a window controller and / or components of a window controller (e.g., a dock).

[0178] In some embodiments, the first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU are rectangular. In some implementations, other (e.g., geometric) shapes are possible. The shapes of the first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU may include circular, oval, triangular, curved, convex, and / or concave. The first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU may include a curved portion. The first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU may not include a curved portion. The first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU may include one or more straight edge portions. The fundamental 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 the panes can be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 1 ft to about 100 ft, about 1 ft to about 60 ft, or about 50 ft to about 100 ft). The base length scale (abbreviated herein as "FLS") can include the length, width, or diameter of a bounding circle. For example, the length "L" of the first and / or second panes can range from at least about 20 inches (in.) to a maximum of about 10 feet (ft.). For example, the width "W" of the first and / or second panes can range from about 20 in. to about 10 ft. The thickness of the panes can be at least about 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 panes can be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 0.1 mm to about 50 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm, or about 10 mm to about 50 mm). For example, the thickness "T" of the first and / or second panes can range from about 0.3 millimeters (mm) to about 10 mm. Other FLS (e.g., length or width) or thicknesses, both smaller or larger, can be possible (e.g., required), based at least in part on the needs of a particular user, manager, administrator, architect, designer, and / or owner. In instances where the thickness T of the substrate is less than about 3 mm (e.g., a thin substrate), the substrate can be, for example, laminated to an additional substrate. The additional substrate can be thicker. The additional substrate can protect the thin substrate.Additionally, while an IGU can include two panes, in some embodiments, an IGU can include three or more panes, and in some embodiments, one or more of the panes can be a laminated structure of two, three, or more layers (i.e., sub-panes).

[0179] In some embodiments, the first and second panes are spaced apart by at least one spacer, for example, to form an interior volume. The spacer(s) can comprise a framework. In some examples, the interior volume is filled with a gas (e.g., argon (Ar)). In some examples, the interior volume can 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 interior volume with a gas can reduce conductive heat transfer through the IGU. The gas can have a low thermal conductivity. The gas can improve sound insulation. The gas can have a higher atomic weight than gas in the surrounding environment (e.g., air). In some other examples, the interior volume can be emptied of gas. The interior volume can include a pressure that is lower than ambient pressure. The interior volume can have a different gas composition and / or pressure than the surrounding environment (e.g., outside the IGU). One or more spacers can determine (at least in part) the height of the interior volume (e.g., 1308), i.e., the range of the spacing between the first and second panes. The FLS of the spacers can 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 can 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 spacing between the first and second panes ranges from about 6 mm to about 30 mm. The width of the spacers (e.g., "D" in FIG. 2A) can range from about 5 mm to about 25 mm (although other widths are 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., top, bottom, left, and right sides of the IGU). The spacer may be formed of a foam and / or plastic material. The spacer may include a polymer. The spacer may include an elemental metal or metal alloy. The spacer may have a tubular or channel structure. The spacer may have at least three sides. The spacer may have at least two sides (e.g., structures 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 sealant 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 a second surface (e.g., S2 in FIG. 13) of the first pane (e.g., 1304). The second primary seal may bond and / or seal the spacer to a first surface (e.g., S3 in FIG. 13 ) of the second pane (e.g., 1306). 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., hermetically seals) the boundary around the IGU. The secondary seal may be disposed outside the spacer. The spacer may be recessed from the edges of the first and second panes at a distance that may be, for example, between about 4 mm and about 8 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desirable). In some embodiments, the secondary seal may include an adhesive sealant, such as a polymeric material. The spacer material may be water-resistant. The spacer material may add 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 the window. One or more controllers can be associated with (e.g., operably coupled to) one or more tintable windows. One or more controllers can be configured to control the optical state of the window, for example, by applying a stimulus to the window. The stimulus can include, for example, a voltage and / or a current to a coating of an EC device. The one or more window controllers can have various sizes, formats, and locations with respect to the optically switchable window they control. At least one controller can be attached to a light or stack of IGUs. At least one controller can be disposed, for example, within a frame that houses the IGU or stack. At least one controller can be disposed in a location separate from the IGU (or stack). A tintable window can include one, two, three, or more electrochromic panes (electrochromic devices on a transparent substrate). Additionally, individual panes of an electrochromic window can include, for example, an electrochromic coating with independently tintable zones. The at least one controller can control at least two (e.g., all) of the electrochromic coatings associated with the window(s), regardless of whether the electrochromic coatings are monolithic or compartmentalized.

[0182] In some embodiments, the window controller is located in proximity to the tintable window (e.g., if not attached directly to the tintable window, IGU, or frame). For example, the window controller may be adjacent to the window, on the surface of one of the window's lights, in a wall next to the window (e.g., a wall that borders and / or touches the window), or in the frame of the window assembly. In some embodiments, the window controller is an in-situ controller. In some embodiments, the in-situ controller is part of a window assembly (e.g., including an IGU or laminate). The in-situ controller may not need to match the electrochromic window. The in-situ controller may be installed on-site (e.g., at a target location). The in-situ controller may travel with the window from a factory (e.g., as part of the assembly). The in-situ controller may be installed in the window frame of the window assembly and / or as part of the IGU (and / or laminate) assembly. For example, the controller may be attached to or between the panes of the IGU. For example, the controller may be disposed on a pane of the laminate. The controller can be a controller located in a visible portion of the IGU. At least a portion of the controller can 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, filed November 14, 2015, entitled "SELF CONTAINED EC IGU," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The local controller can be provided (i) as two or more parts (e.g., portions), (ii) with at least one part (e.g., including a memory component that stores information about the associated electrochromic window), (iii) as part of the window assembly, and / or (iv) with at least one part thereof separate. The controller can be configured to mate with at least a portion of the window assembly, the IGU, and / or the laminate. The controller can be an assembly of interconnected parts. The interconnected parts do not have to be disposed within a single housing.The interconnecting portions of the controller may be spaced apart (e.g., in the secondary seal of an IGU). The controller may comprise a compact unit. The compact unit may be in a single housing. The compact unit may be in two or more separate components that integrate together (e.g., a dock and housing assembly). The controller may be disposed 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 integrated into or integrated onto (i) the IGU and / or (ii) the window frame. Integration of the controller can occur before, during, and / or after installation of the tintable window at the target location. The controller (e.g., for a window) can be disposed in the same facility (e.g., building) as the window. For example, the controller can be integrated into or onto the IGU and / or window frame before the window and / or controller leave the manufacturing facility. In one embodiment, the controller is integrated into the IGU (e.g., substantially within the secondary seal). In another embodiment, the controller is integrated partially, substantially, or entirely within the perimeter defined by the primary seal in or on the IGU. The perimeter can be between the sealing separator and the substrate (e.g., the light).

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

[0185] In some embodiments, one or more characteristics of the electrochromic device(s) change over time (e.g., due to degradation). The characterization function can be used, at least in part, to update one or more control parameters utilized in directing a change in the tint state of the IGU, for example. Once installed in an electrochromic window unit, the logic and features of the controller can be used (at least in part) to calibrate one or more control parameters to match the intended installation. Once installed, the control parameters can be recalibrated to match one or more performance characteristics of the electrochromic device(s).

[0186] In other embodiments, the controller is not pre-associated with a window. For example, a dock component having components generic to any electrochromic window may be associated with at least one (e.g., each) window at a factory (e.g., where the controller and / or window structure are manufactured). After and / or during installation of the window (or at a target location (e.g., on-site)), a second component of the controller may be combined with the dock component, e.g., to complete the electrochromic window controller assembly. The dock component may include circuitry. The dock component may include a chip. The chip may be programmed at the factory. The programming of the chip may take into account (e.g., take into account) one or more physical characteristics and / or parameters of the particular window to which the dock is attached. For example, the surface that faces the interior of the building after installation may be referred to as Surface 4 or “S4.” A second component (referred to as a “carrier,” “casing,” or “housing”) may be mated with the dock. Once mated with the dock, the second component may be powered. The second component may be configured to read the chip. The second component may, for example, configure itself to provide power to the window according to one or more specific characteristics and / or parameters stored on the chip. The shipped window may require (e.g., only) one or more associated characteristics and / or parameters stored on the chip. The chip may be integral with the window. More sophisticated circuitry (e.g., compared to the chip) and / or components may be later integrated with the controller-window assembly. For example, the more sophisticated circuitry and / or components may (i) be shipped separately from the window, dock, and / or second component, and / or (ii) be installed by the window manufacturer (a) after the glazier installs the window and / or (b) after commissioning by the window manufacturer. In some embodiments, the chip is included 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 exterior environment, and the term "inboard" is understood herein to refer to a location closer to the interior of a building. For example, in the case of an IGU having two panes, the pane located closer to the exterior environment is referred to as the outboard pane or outer pane, while the pane located closer to the interior of the building is referred to as the inboard pane or inner pane. As illustrated with respect to the example shown in FIG. 13 , different surfaces of the IGU can be referred to as S1, S2, S3, and S4 (assuming a two-pane IGU). S1 refers to the outward-facing surface of the outboard light (e.g., the surface physically touchable by a person standing outside). S2 refers to the inward-facing surface of the outboard light. S3 refers to the outward-facing surface of the inboard light. S4 refers to the inward-facing surface of the inboard light (e.g., the surface physically touchable by a person standing inside the building). In other words, the surfaces are labeled S1 through S4, counting inward from the outermost surface of the IGU. This trend holds when the IGU includes three panes. In certain embodiments using two panes, the electrochromic device (or other optically switchable device) is disposed on S3. In certain embodiments, one or more of the surfaces has a structure for blocking the transmission of electromagnetic radiation. The IGU can include a shield stack of multiple conductive layers on an interior surface, such as S3 in FIG. 13. Additional aspects 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 provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 449,248, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," Ser. No. 13 / 449,251, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS," Ser. No. 15 / 334,835, filed October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES," and International Application No. PCT / US17 / 20805, filed March 3, 2017, entitled "METHOD OF COMMISSIONING ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIG. 12 illustrates an example schematic cross-sectional view of an electrochromic device 1200 according to some embodiments. The EC device coating is attached to a substrate 1202, a transparent conductive layer (TCL) 1204, an electrochromic layer (EC) 1206 (sometimes referred to as a cathode coloring layer or cathodic coloring layer), an ion conducting layer or region (IC) 1208, a counter electrode layer (CE) 1210 (sometimes referred to as an anode coloring layer or anodic coloring layer), and a second TCL 1214. The elements 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, and 1214 are collectively referred to as an electrochromic stack 1220. A voltage source 1216 operable to apply a potential across the electrochromic stack 1220 effects 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 relative to the substrate. That is, the layers are in the following order: substrate, TCL, counter electrode layer, ion conductor layer, electrochromic material layer, TCL. In various embodiments, the ion conductor region (e.g., 1208) can 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, an electrochromic stack (e.g., 1220) can be deposited to include a cathodically coloring electrochromic material (EC layer) in direct physical contact with an anodically coloring counterelectrode material (CE layer). An ion conductor region (sometimes referred to as an interfacial region or an ion-conducting substantially electronically insulating layer or region) can then be formed where the EC and CE layers meet, for example, through heating and / or other processing steps. Examples of electrochromic devices (e.g., those fabricated without depositing a specific ion conductor material) can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 462,725, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES," filed May 2, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, an EC device coating can include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers can be used to enhance certain optical properties, provide wetting, and / or provide scratch resistance. These or other passive layers may function to seal the EC stack 1220. Various layers, such as the transparent conductive layers (such as 1204 and 1214), may be treated with anti-reflective and / or protective layers (e.g., oxide and / or nitride layers).

[0189] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to reversibly (e.g., substantially) cycle between a clear state and a colored state. Reversible can be within the useful life of the ECD. The useful life can be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The useful life can be any value between the aforementioned values ​​(e.g., about 5 years to about 100 years, about 5 years to about 50 years, or about 50 years 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 (e.g., 1220) such that available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material (e.g., 1206) to become colored are primarily present at the counter electrode (e.g., 1210). When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions can be transported across the ion-conducting layer (e.g., 1208) to the electrochromic material, causing the material to assume 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 examples of electrochromic transitions that may be implemented. Unless otherwise specified herein, whenever reference is made to a clear-colored transition, 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 an optically neutral state, e.g., an uncolored, transparent, and / or translucent state. In some embodiments, the "color" or "coloration" of an electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or wavelength range. Selection of appropriate electrochromic and counterelectrode materials can affect the associated optical transition (e.g., from a colored state to a non-colored state).

[0191] In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the materials comprising the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (e.g., solid-state), or inorganic and solid. Because various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat and UV light, such as tinted building windows, inorganic materials offer the advantage of a reliable electrochromic stack that can function for extended periods of time. In some embodiments, solid-state materials, as liquid-state materials sometimes do, can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and minimized leakage issues. One or more of the layers in the stack may contain some (e.g., measurable) organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain little or no measurable organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids, which may be present in small amounts. A small amount may be up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid-state materials may be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes that employ liquid components, such as certain processes that employ sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0192] FIG. 13 shows an example cross-sectional view of a tintable window embodied in an insulated glass unit ("IGU") 1300, according to some 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 serve as a base structure to hold electrochromic panes (also referred to as "lights"). IGU lights may be single-substrate or multi-substrate configurations. Lights may include, for example, a stack of two substrates. IGUs (e.g., having double- or triple-pane configurations) can offer more advantages than single-pane configurations. For example, multi-pane configurations can provide enhanced thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, environmental protection, and / or durability compared to single-pane configurations. Multi-pane configurations can provide enhanced protection for ECDs. For example, electrochromic films (and associated layers and conductive interconnects) can be formed on the interior surfaces of a multi-pane IGU and protected by an inert gas fill in the interior volume (e.g., 1308) of the IGU. The inert gas fill may provide at least some thermal insulation to the IGU. Electrochromic IGUs may provide thermal insulation through colorable coatings that absorb (and / or reflect) heat and light.

[0193] In some embodiments, an "IGU" includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, an IGU may include two panes of glass. At least one substrate of the IGU may include an electrochromic device disposed thereon. One or more panes of the IGU may have a separator disposed therebetween. The IGU may be hermetically sealed, e.g., having an interior region isolated from the ambient environment. A "window assembly" may include an IGU. A "window assembly" may include a (e.g., stand-alone) 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) the one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, a switch, etc., and may include a frame supporting the IGU or the laminate. A window assembly may include a local controller (e.g., a window controller) and / or components of a local controller (e.g., a dock).

[0194] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of an IGU 1300 including 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 the outdoors or an exterior 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 component thereof (e.g., an enclosure therein, such as a room). In some embodiments, the first and second panes (e.g., 1304 and 1306) are transparent or translucent (e.g., to at least light in the visible spectrum). For example, each of the panes (e.g., 1304 and 1306) can be formed of a glass material. The glass material can include architectural glass and / or shatterproof glass. The glass can include silicon oxide (SOx). The glass may include soda-lime glass or float glass. The glass may include at least about 75% silica (SiO2). The glass may include oxides such as Na2O or CaO. The glass may include alkali or alkaline earth oxides. The glass may include one or more additives. The first and / or second panes may include any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Other materials (e.g., substrates) that may be included in the first and / or second panes include plastic, semi-plastic, 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 panes may include a mirror material (e.g., silver). In some embodiments, the first and / or second panes may be reinforced. Strengthening may include tempering, heat, and / or chemical strengthening.

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

[0196] A computer system may include a processing unit (e.g., 1406) (also used herein as a “processor,” “computer,” and “computer processor”). The computer system may 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 cache, other memory, data storage, and / or an electronic display adapter. In the example shown in FIG. 14 , the memory 1402, storage unit 1404, interface 1403, and peripheral devices 1405 communicate with the processing unit 1406 via a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit may be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system may be operably coupled to a computer network (“network”) (e.g., 1401) with the aid of a communication interface. The network may be the Internet, an Internet and / or extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet in communication with the Internet. In some cases, the network is 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 implement a peer-to-peer network, in some cases with the help of a computer system, thereby allowing devices coupled to the computer system to act as clients or servers.

[0197] The processing unit may execute a series of machine-readable instructions, which may be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as memory 1402. The instructions may be directed to the processing unit, which may then program or otherwise configure the processing unit to implement the methods of the present 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 the instructions. The 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 the system 1400 may be included in the circuit.

[0198] The storage unit may store files such as drivers, libraries, and saved programs. The storage unit may store user data (e.g., user settings and user programs). In some cases, the computer system may include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system, such as located on a remote server in communication with the computer system via an intranet or the Internet.

[0199] The computer system can communicate with one or more remote computer systems via a network. For example, the computer system may communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e.g., an operator). Examples of remote computer systems include a personal computer (e.g., a portable PC), a slate or tablet PC (e.g., an Apple® iPad, a Samsung® Galaxy Tab), a telephone, a smartphone (e.g., an Apple® iPhone, an Android-enabled device, a Blackberry®), or a personal digital assistant. A user (e.g., a client) can access the computer system via the network.

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

[0201] The code may be pre-compiled and configured for use by a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or may be compiled at run time. The code may be provided in a programming language that may be selected so that the code can be executed in a pre-compiled or compiled manner.

[0202] In some embodiments, the processor comprises code. The code may be program instructions. The program instructions may cause at least one processor (e.g., a computer) to direct feedforward and / or feedback control loops. In some embodiments, the program instructions may cause at least one processor to direct closed-loop and / or open-loop control schemes. The control may be based, at least in part, on one or more sensor readings (e.g., sensor data). One controller may direct multiple operations. At least two operations may be directed by different controllers. In some embodiments, one different controller may direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, multiple different controllers may direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may cause different computers, respectively, to direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, different non-transitory computer-readable media each cause a different computer to direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). The controllers and / or computer-readable media can direct any of the apparatuses or components thereof disclosed herein. The controllers and / or computer-readable media can direct any of the operations of the methods disclosed herein.

[0203] In some embodiments, at least one sensor is operably coupled to the control system (e.g., a computer control system). The sensor may include an optical sensor, an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a chemical sensor, an electrical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a flowability sensor, a motion sensor, a velocity sensor, a position sensor, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, a density sensor, a distance sensor, or a proximity sensor. The sensor may include a temperature sensor, a weight sensor, a material (e.g., powder) level sensor, a metrology sensor, a gas sensor, or a humidity sensor. The metrology sensor may include a measurement sensor (e.g., height, length, width, angle, and / or volume). The metrology sensor may include a magnetic, acceleration, orientation, or optical sensor. The sensor may transmit and / or receive acoustic (e.g., echo), magnetic, electronic, or electromagnetic signals. The electromagnetic signal may include visible, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasonic, radio, or microwave signals. The gas sensor may sense any of the gases described herein. The distance sensor may be a type of metrology sensor. The distance sensor may include an optical sensor or a capacitance sensor. The temperature sensor may include a bolometer, bimetal plate, calorimeter, exhaust thermometer, flame detector, Gardon gauge, Golay cell, heat flux sensor, infrared thermometer, microbolometer, microwave radiometer, pure radiometer, quartz thermometer, resistance temperature detector, resistance temperature detector, silicon bandgap temperature sensor, special sensor microwave / imager, temperature gauge, thermistor, thermocouple, thermometer (e.g., resistance temperature detector), or pyrometer. The temperature sensor may include an optical sensor. The temperature sensor may include image processing. The temperature sensor may include a camera (e.g., IR camera, visible light camera, CCD camera). The sensor may include a sensor array (e.g., IR sensor array). The camera and / or sensor array may include at least 2000, 3000, or 4000 pixels at its fundamental length scale. The sensor may be configured to detect radio frequencies. The device may include a geolocation device (e.g., a device including Bluetooth, GPS, and / or UWV geolocation technology). The sensor may include an optical sensor.The pressure sensor may include a barograph, a barometer, a supercharger, a Bourdon tube gauge, a hot filament ionization gauge, an ionization gauge, a McLeod gauge, a vibrating U-tube, a permanent downhole pressure gauge, a pressure gauge, a Pirani gauge, a pressure sensor, a pressure gauge, a tactile sensor, a pressure gauge, or a time pressure gauge. The position sensor may include a growth meter, a capacitive displacement sensor, a capacitance sensing, a free fall sensor, a gravity meter, a gyro sensor, an impact sensor, an inclinometer, an integrated circuit piezoelectric sensor, a laser range finder, a laser surface velocimeter, a LIDAR, a linear encoder, a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), a liquid capacitance inclinometer, an odometer, a photoelectric sensor, a piezoelectric accelerometer, a velocity sensor, a rotary encoder, a rotary variable differential transformer, a selsyn, an impact detector, an impact data logger, a tilt sensor, a tachometer, an ultrasonic thickness gauge, a variable reluctance sensor, or a velocity receiver. The optical sensor may include a charge-coupled device, a colorimeter, a contact image sensor, an electro-optical sensor, an infrared sensor, a kinetic inductance detector, a light-emitting diode (e.g., a photosensor), a photoaddressable potentiometric sensor, a Nichols radiometer, a fiber optic sensor, an optical position sensor, a photodetector, a photodiode, a photomultiplier tube, a phototransistor, a photoelectric sensor, a photoionization detector, a photomultiplier, a photoresistor, a photoelectric switch, a phototube, a scintillation counter, a Shack-Hartmann, a single-photon avalanche diode, a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector, a superconducting transition edge sensor, a visible light quantum counter, or a wavefront sensor. 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 the (local) network are configured for wireless communication. The target device may include a transceiver. In some embodiments, the transceiver and / or the 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., wide bandwidth). The one or more signals may include ultra-wideband (UWB) signals (e.g., having a frequency 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 fractional bandwidth of greater than about 20%. The ultra-wideband signals may have a bandwidth of greater than about 500 megahertz (MHz). The one or more signals may use very low energy levels for short distances. The signals (e.g., having radio frequencies) may use a spectrum that can penetrate solid structures (e.g., walls, doors, and / or windows). The low power may be up to 25 milliwatts (mW), 50 mW, 75 mW, or 100 mW. The 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 (I) locate the temporary transceiver in real time, (II) locate the temporary transceiver to an accuracy of about 20, 10, or 5 centimeters or better, (III) transmit and sense ultra-wideband radio waves, and / or (IV) operably couple to a control system configured to control a facility in which the one or more stationary sensors and / or local network of stationary transceivers are located.

[0205] In some embodiments, the local network incorporates and / or facilitates geolocation technology (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS), Bluetooth (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and / or dead reckoning), for example, using a microlocation chip. The geolocation technology may facilitate determining the location of a signal source (e.g., the location of a temporary tag including a transceiver that facilitates the 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 comprises ultra-wideband (UWB) radio waves, very high frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves utilized in a Global Positioning System (GPS). In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation comprises electromagnetic waves at a frequency of at least about 300 MHz, 500 MHz, or 1200 MHz. In some embodiments, the signal comprises 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 10 13 bits / second per square meter (bit / s / m 2 ).

[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 at low power (e.g., less than about 1 millivolt (mW), 0.75 mW, 0.5 mW, or 0.25 mW) over short distances (e.g., up to about 300 feet ('), 250 feet ('), 230 feet ('), 200 feet ('), or 150 feet (')). UWB signals can occupy at least about 750 MHz, 500 MHz, or 250 MHz bandwidth spectrum and / or at least about 30%, 20%, or 10% of its center frequency. UWB signals can be transmitted by one or more pulses. Components simultaneously broadcast digital signal pulses, which can be timed (e.g., precisely) on a carrier signal across several frequency channels. Information can be transmitted, for example, by modulating the timing and / or positioning of the signal (e.g., pulse). Signal information can be transmitted by encoding the polarity of a signal (e.g., a pulse), its amplitude, and / or by using orthogonal signals (e.g., pulses). UWB signals can be a low-power information transmission protocol. UWB technology can be utilized for (e.g., indoor) location applications. The wide UWB spectrum includes low frequencies with long wavelengths, which allow UWB signals to penetrate various materials, such as various building structures (e.g., walls). For example, a wide range of frequencies, such as low penetration frequencies, can reduce the chance of multipath propagation errors (because, without being bound by theory, 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 that are about 600 MHz, 500 MHz, or 400 MHz wide, or up to about 20 cm, 23 cm, 25 cm, or 30 cm for pulses having a bandwidth of about 1 GHz, 1.2 GHz, 1.3 GHz, or 1.5 GHz). A short communication signal (eg, a pulse) may reduce the likelihood that a reflected signal (eg, a pulse) will overlap with the original signal (eg, a pulse).

[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 data plane and the vertical data plane may have at least one transport capability that is (e.g., substantially) similar. The horizontal and vertical data planes may have at least one type of network component that is (e.g., substantially) similar. In other cases, these two data planes have different data transport capabilities. In some cases, the horizontal and vertical data planes have (e.g., substantially) the same (or similar) data transport capabilities and / or network component types. In other cases, the vertical and horizontal data planes have at least one (e.g., all) data transport capabilities and / or network components that are different from each other. For example, the vertical data plane may include network components for high communication (e.g., data transmission) speeds and / or bandwidths. The higher communication speeds may be at least about 1 gigabit per second (Gbit / s), 10 Gbit / s, 50 Gbit / s, 100 Gbit / s, 250 Gbit / s, 500 Gbit / s, 750 Gbit / s, 1 terabit per second (Tbit / s), or 1.125 Tbit / s. The higher communication speeds may be any speed between the aforementioned speeds (e.g., about 1 Gbit / s to about 1.125 Tbit / s, about 1 Gbit / s to about 500 Gbit / s, or about 250 Gbit / s to about 1.125 Tbit / s).

[0208] The descriptions of Figures 15-18 present network topologies that may be alternatives to the topologies presented for some other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the network topologies of Figures 15-18 may be alternatives to linear bus topologies in some cases. The network topologies described with respect to Figures 15-18 may use control components such that the control panel may have similar and / or overlapping functionality and / or design elements as components described in other embodiments presented herein. The data carried and / or data protocols used in the topologies of Figures 15-18 may be replaced or supplemented by data and / or data protocols described in other embodiments presented herein. The data carried and / or data protocols used in the topologies of Figures 15-18 may be carried within the frequency ranges described in other embodiments presented herein. To the extent that conductive data-carrying lines (e.g., coaxial or twisted (e.g., pair) cable) are used in the network topologies presented in Figures 15-18, vertical and / or horizontal data may be configured such that the conductive data-carrying lines can transmit power to end devices in certain embodiments.

[0209] Different physical network topologies may be used to provide 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, etc.). For example, FIG. 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 building floor 1503. The 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 a 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 time and / or cost). Network A may facilitate the 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 a failure occurs in the control panel 1, 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′, with each intermediate control panel 1′ associated with multiple building devices 2. Network Topology B can reduce the amount of wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) required to provide data communications to each building device 2 in the network compared to Topology A. The amount of wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) 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 that required in Topology A. Network Topology B incorporates more control panels than Network Topology A to provide some increased level of physical redundancy, 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 devices 2 are connected via a linear (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) bus to a central control panel 1. 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 distribution lines on a building floor. In some cases, the wiring, control panels, radios, antennas, and other network components associated with the ring are located in and / or on the exterior structure (i.e., exterior) of the building. Similarly, at least some (e.g., all) network components of other network topologies described herein may be disposed on the exterior of an enclosure (e.g., a building). The building exterior may include various structures that serve as the exterior structure of the building. The building exterior may include fixtures (e.g., walls). Examples include building exterior walls, exterior windows, optionally including optically switchable windows, facades, window framing structures, etc. In various embodiments, the building exterior includes mullions, lattices, and / or other structures that may provide internal passageways for network wiring and / or provide a support surface for mounting control panels or other network devices.

[0214] Network and / or power distribution components disposed on the building exterior may provide data communication and / or power distribution functionality, such as telecommunications, a computing platform, 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 communications and / or power distribution components are installed during the (e.g., early) building construction process (e.g., before interior rooms are created, exterior windows are installed, or IT infrastructure is installed, etc.). In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the communications and / or power distribution components are installed after the building construction process is complete. In certain embodiments, at least some (e.g., all) of the communications and / or power distribution components are installed while the building is occupied. In some cases, at least some of the communications and / or power distribution components are available to construction crews to facilitate construction and installation operations.

[0216] In some cases, the communications and / or power distribution system (e.g., network system) initially installed on the building envelope is not configured to control some or all building devices, such as sensors, emitters, and / or tintable (e.g., optically switchable) windows. The network system (e.g., a controller operatively coupled thereto) may be configured to control such devices at a later stage. As an example, one vendor provides some or all of the communications and power distribution infrastructure on the building envelope, and a second vendor provides sensing units and / or optically switchable windows that are attached to and ultimately controlled by the infrastructure.

[0217] 16A shows a schematic plan view of a physical network topology of a building floor 1600 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The floor network includes distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 connected in series to each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) 1607, 1608, 1609, 1610, 1611, and 1612 to form a first primary wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) ring. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 forms a node in the primary ring. The primary ring may extend around the floor adjacent to the perimeter of the floor. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 is also connected to a corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network branch 1601′, 1602′, 1603′, 1604′, 1605′, and 1606′. Each second (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network branch extends along a respective portion of the perimeter of a building floor. As shown, a given control panel may include two or more second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) branches, although each of those branches is not numbered in the figure. The first wiring and the second wiring may be different wiring types. The first wiring and the second wiring 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 more detail in FIG. 16B. The network branch 1601′ includes branching devices 1613, 1614, 1615, 1616, and 1617 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′. The drop lines 1613′, 1614′, 1615′, 1616′, and 1617′ can be connected to the 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 can be any type of building device requiring power and / or data service. For example, the branch devices can include one or more electrochromic devices (e.g., electrochromic windows or insulated glass units (IGUs)), exterior sensing devices (e.g., light or weather sensors), interior sensing devices (e.g., interior air quality monitoring devices or asset tracking devices), communications devices (antennas, receivers, transceivers, or radios), digital architecture elements, or building security devices (e.g., burglar alarms), lighting, or HVAC components. The distributed control panel 1601 includes a head-end unit 1628 and is connected to a (e.g., dedicated) power source 1629, e.g., an AC power source. In some embodiments, the dedicated AC power is provided by a power line, such as a coaxial or other cable line. The dedicated power line may run around the perimeter of the building, for example, parallel to the other (e.g., fiber optic) cabling of the primary ring. In other embodiments, the distributed control panels are connected to the DC power source, for example, by a DC power line. The DC power line may run around the perimeter of the building, for example, parallel to the (e.g., fiber optic) cabling of the primary ring.A head end unit 1628 in the distributed control panel 1601 can act as a gateway for data communications between a first wiring (e.g., fiber optic) primary ring and a second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch 1601'. Each of the second wiring network branches 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606' can be similar in format to branch 1601', although the number and type of branch devices and device controllers present in each branch can vary depending, for example, on the requirements of the building.

[0219] 16A , a fiber optic 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 communication of data, such as control data for controlling various branching devices. The first wiring (e.g., fiber optic) primary ring can support high-speed data transmission, for example, at speeds greater than about 1 Gbit / s per channel (e.g., at least about 10 Gbit / s per channel), optionally with low transmission loss and reduced (e.g., near-zero or zero) interference. In some embodiments, the fiber optic primary ring 1612 does not provide power transmission to the distributed control panels.

[0220] 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 the branch devices in each second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch. The second wiring may provide both power and data. Power may be supplied to the distributed control panels by one or more dedicated power sources. In embodiments where AC power is supplied to the distributed control panels, the power may be rectified to DC and converted to a lower voltage, for example, approximately 24 V DC, within the distributed control panel (e.g., by an AC-DC converter). The lower voltage power may be transmitted to the branch devices, for example, via the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch lines. In an alternative embodiment in which 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 be transmitted to the branch device via a second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch line. Data from the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) primary ring can be received by a head-end unit within the distributed control panel and transmitted to the branch device via the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) branch line using a protocol such as, for example, MoCA, G.hn, and / or any of various cellular communication protocols. In certain embodiments, power is transmitted over the second wiring (e.g., coaxial) using, for example, a DC power line communication (PLC) protocol and / or a Power over Ethernet protocol. PLC methods can enable both power and data to be transmitted to the branch device along a single branch line.

[0221] Each distributed control panel node in the primary ring shown in FIG. 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 may 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 ring topologies). For example, if a given node experiences a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the ring may not be blocked (because each node can be reached via an alternate path). Thus, fault-tolerant redundancy may be built into the network. Redundancy may be advantageous when one or more network branches include branching device(s) 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 installation of the ring topology of the network shown in Figure 16A may be simpler (e.g., requiring less effort, less sophisticated labor, and / or being cheaper to install). Furthermore, the use of a secondary linear wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch around the primary ring can result in significant cost savings, for example, by reducing the length of primary wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) required to provide (e.g., high-speed) data communications to all devices in the network. The topology shown in Figure 16A may combine floor-wide fault tolerance, (e.g., high-speed) data communications provision, ease of installation, and low installation cost.

[0223] In certain embodiments, the building network infrastructure has 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) the same (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. In one example, the vertical data plane includes data-carrying communication components supporting Ethernet transmissions of at least about 10 gigabits per second or more (e.g., using UTP wire and / or fiber optic cable), and the horizontal data plane includes data-carrying components also supporting Gigabit Ethernet transmissions of at least about 10 gigabits per second or more, e.g., via optical fiber. In some cases, the horizontal data plane supports data transmission via a communication protocol (e.g., the G.hn protocol and / or a MoCA protocol, such as the MoCA 2.5 standard or the MoCA 3.0 standard). In certain embodiments, the connection between at least two floors in the vertical data plane uses a control panel including (e.g., high-speed) Ethernet switches. These same control panels may communicate with the node(s) on a given floor via (e.g., high-speed) switches (e.g., fiber optic switches) and / or communication protocol (e.g., MoCA) interfaces and associated (e.g., coaxial) cables laid out in the horizontal data plane.

[0224] 17A illustrates an example of a physical network topology for a building floor 1700, including distributed control panels 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 connected in series to each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic 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 connected in series to 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 a segment of first wiring 1721. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 forms a node in primary ring 1713, while each distributed control panel 1714, 1715, and 1716 forms a node in secondary ring 1720. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 is also connected to a corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch 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 floor's perimeter, and each of the primary ring's second wiring network branches 1701′, 1702′, 1703′, 1704′, 1705′, and 1706′ extend along a respective portion of the building floor's perimeter. The secondary ring 1720 extends around the center of the floor within the primary ring 1713, as do each of the secondary ring's second wiring network branches 1714′, 1715′, and 1716′. The control panel and second wiring of the secondary ring are located in an interior area of ​​the building floor, e.g., within the physical perimeter of the floor on which 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's perimeter, i.e., exterior, is constructed.Thus, in some cases, a primary ring of a floor is constructed before its secondary ring. The first and second wiring may be wiring of the same wiring type. The first and second wiring may be wiring of different wiring types.

[0225] As in the example embodiment shown in FIG. 16A , each branch 1701′, 1702′, 1703′, 1704′, 1705′, 1706′, 1714′, 1715′, 1716′ of the second distribution network includes one or more branching devices coupled to a linear second distribution branch by a corresponding second distribution drop line (and, optionally, a device controller). Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 includes a corresponding head-end unit and has a corresponding AC power source. The head-end unit in the distributed control panel serves as a gateway for data communications between the first distribution primary ring 1713 or the first distribution (e.g., fiber optic) secondary ring 1720 and the respective second distribution (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 16 , a first wiring primary ring 1713 and a first wiring secondary ring 1720 connect the distributed control panels on the ring to a building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes. Additionally, a second wiring network branch located around the ring connects the various distributed control panels to branch devices for both power and data. Power is supplied to the distributed control panels by a dedicated AC power source, which is rectified to DC within the distributed control panel and delivered to the branch devices via a second wiring branch. Data from the first wiring primary ring 1713 and the secondary ring 1720 is received by a head-end unit within the distributed control panel and transmitted to the branch devices via the second wiring branch using, for example, a communication protocol (e.g., G.hn, MoCA, and / or cellular protocol). Power line communication (PLC) and / or electrical power over Ethernet methods can be used to transmit DC power instead of AC power.

[0226] In the example shown in FIG. 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 Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy into the floor network in a manner similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 16A . For example, if a given node in the primary ring 1713 experiences a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the primary ring is not prevented because each node can be reached through an alternate path. Similarly, if a distributed control panel 1715 or 1716 in the secondary ring 1720 experiences a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the secondary ring is not prevented (e.g., not blocked) because each node can be reached through an alternate path.

[0227] The inclusion of a secondary ring in a floor network can enable data and power to be provided to one or more branching devices located inside the building. For example, such a network topology may be suitable for floor designs that incorporate interior rooms, other enclosed spaces, or interior open spaces such as atriums. The interior 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 interior perimeter of the building, for example, around the perimeter of an interior open space within the building. A secondary ring topology may be suitable for floor designs that do not incorporate interior open spaces. In such embodiments, the secondary ring may provide power and data to branching devices located inside the building, for example, electrochromic windows, interior sensors, or burglar alarms integrated into partitions.

[0228] The primary ring 1713 and secondary ring 1720 of the floor network may be installed simultaneously or at different times, which may be during and / or after the construction of the building. For example, the secondary ring 1720 may be installed after the installation of the primary ring 1713. In some embodiments, the primary ring 1713 may be installed during the construction of the building, and the secondary ring 1720 may then be added to the floor network when the interior layout of the floor is determined or reconfigured.

[0229] 17B shows an example of a physical network topology for a building floor 1700, including distributed control panels 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 connected to each other in series by segments of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic 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 connected to each other in series by segments of first wiring 1717, 1718, and 1719 to form a first wiring secondary ring 1720 within primary ring 1713. Secondary ring 1720 is connected to 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 in primary ring 1713, while each distributed control panel 1714, 1715, and 1716 forms a node in secondary ring 1720. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 is also connected to a corresponding second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch 1701′, 1702′, 1703′, 1704′, 1705′, 1706′, 1714′, 1715′, and 1716′. The primary ring 1713 extends around the floor adjacent to the perimeter of the floor, and each of the primary ring's second wiring network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', and 1706' extend along a respective portion 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 secondary ring's second wiring network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716'.

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

[0231] As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A , each distributed control panel node in the primary ring 1713 shown in FIG. 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 built into the floor network by using a network protocol such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP). For example, if a given node in the primary ring 1713 experiences a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the primary ring is not prevented because each node can be reached through an alternate path. Similarly, if a given node in the secondary ring 1720 experiences a failure that prevents (e.g., blocks) communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the secondary ring is not prevented (e.g., not blocked) because each node can be reached through an alternate path. The inclusion of two first wiring links 1721 and 1722 between the primary and secondary rings ensures that nodes in the secondary ring remain reachable regardless of a failure anywhere in the primary ring (even if a failure occurs in a node forming a network connection to the secondary ring), and vice versa. The first wiring links 1721 and 1722 also ensure that nodes in the secondary ring remain reachable regardless of a failure 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 FIG. 17B has increased fault-tolerant redundancy and, therefore, increased reliability. Among other benefits, this multiple-access topology can provide more reliable antenna coverage throughout a 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] 18 , the physical network topology of a building floor 1800 includes distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, and 1809 connected in series to each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) 1810, 1811, 1812, 1813, 1814, 1815, 1816, 1817, 1818, and 1819. Distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, and 1806 form nodes of an outer first wiring ring 1820 that extends around the floor adjacent to the perimeter of the floor. Distributed control panels 1801, 1804, 1807, 1808, and 1809 form nodes in a first wiring network chord that links opposite sides of outer ring 1820. It is therefore possible to define two sub-rings in the floor network: a first sub-ring connecting distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 180...

Claims

1. 1. A system for power and communications transmission within a facility, the system comprising: (a) a cabling system having cables configured to transmit electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device of the facility, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type outside the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility, the first antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; and (c) a second antenna configured to (i) receive signals of the second communication type within the premises and (ii) transmit signals of the second communication type within the premises, the second antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; and (d) at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to control the at least one device using the first communication type.

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

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the current is direct current.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the cabling system includes a distribution junction.

5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the distribution junction distributes the current non-uniformly.

6. The system of claim 4 , wherein the distribution junction distributes the first communication type and / or the second communication type unevenly.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one controller is configured to operably couple to a building management system.

8. 1. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising: at least one controller having circuitry; (a) a cabling system having cables configured to transmit electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system being configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (b) coupled to a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type outside the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility; (c) coupled to a second antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type within the facility and transmit signals of the second communication type within the facility; (d) directing the second communication type from the first antenna to the second antenna; directing the second communication type from the second antenna to the first antenna; operatively coupled to the at least one device at the facility; (e) an apparatus configured to use or direct the use of said first communication type to control said at least one device at said facility.

9. 1. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (a) transmitting, via a cable that is part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled, an electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; (b) receiving signals of the second communication type outside the facility and directing the signals of the second communication type received at a first antenna configured to transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility to a second antenna, and receiving signals of the second communication type inside the facility and directing the signals of the second communication type received at a second antenna configured to transmit signals of the second communication type inside the facility to the first antenna; (c) controlling or directing the control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

10. 1. A method for controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (a) transmitting (i) electrical current, (ii) a first communication type utilized to control the at least one device, and (iii) a second communication type configured for media communication over a cable that is part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled; (b) receiving signals of the second communication type outside the facility and directing the signals of the second communication type received at a first antenna configured to transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility to a second antenna, and receiving signals of the second communication type inside the facility and directing the signals of the second communication type received at a second antenna configured to transmit signals of the second communication type inside the facility to the first antenna; (c) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising providing and / or using the first communication type and the second communication type such that the first communication type does not have overlapping signal frequencies with the second communication type.

12. The method of claim 10 further comprising providing and / or using the current as a direct current.

13. The method of claim 10 , wherein the cabling system is operably coupled to a building management system.

14. 1. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising: at least one controller having circuitry; (i) configured to operably couple to a cabling system, said cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit the current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and 1. A distribution junction including a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, said junction comprising: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (g) operatively coupled to said at least one device; (h) a distribution junction configured to use or direct the use of said first communication type to control said at least one device.

15. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power request from the at least one device.

16. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of power requirements from the at least one device.

17. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct the current along the trunk cable to the at least one device, the current being transmitted through the distribution junction.

18. The distribution junction may be configured to determine (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the type of communication transmitted through the distribution junction. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising a controller that controls the second communication type.

19. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at least one controller is configured to control the directed current in response to the power requirement received from the at least one device.

20. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to develop or direct the development of a time schedule for operation of the at least one device.

21. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of an amount of time a given process takes to occur on the device.

22. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of when operation of the at least one device is required.

23. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of: (i) an operational mode; (ii) a scheme of the at least one device; or (iii) any combination or plurality thereof.

24. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the at least one device includes a first device having a first mode of operation and a second device having a second mode of operation, and the at least one controller is configured to combine or direct a combination of the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation.

25. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, 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 combine or direct a combination of the first request and the second request.

26. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct the prioritization of power budgets of the at least one device and / or the channel according to logic.

27. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the logic comprises (i) device specifications, (ii) device power requests, (iii) device power requirements for the at least one device, (iv) power requests from the at least one device, (v) predicted power usage by the 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.

28. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the power requirements of the device specify one or more specifications including (i) an amount of power, (ii) a time for delivery of the power, or (iii) a duration for delivery of the power.

29. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, 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 the channels of the plurality of channels and / or the devices of the at least one device.

30. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one controller is configured to distribute or direct the distribution of power to the channels of the plurality of channels and / or the devices of the at least one device.

31. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one device comprises 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.

32. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct the monitoring of power distribution to the plurality of devices, the plurality of devices being coupled to a network.

33. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of power budget requests from one or more of the plurality of devices.

34. 34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the at least one controller is configured to consider or direct consideration of: (i) the power budget request; (ii) the power budget request and any other power budget requests; (iii) the distribution status of the power within the network; (iv) a forecast of the distribution of power within the network at a future time; (v) a power usage history of any of the plurality of devices in the network; (vi) a power usage trend of any of the plurality of devices; or (vii) any combination or plurality of these.

35. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller is configured to terminate or direct the termination of the second communication type for a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power above a threshold.

36. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller is configured to remove or direct the removal of at least a portion of the power from a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power above a threshold.

37. 1. A system for power and communication transmission, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit the current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch 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, said junction comprising: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) a distribution junction configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable.

38. 1. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (A) connecting a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device and a second communication type configured for media communication to a cabling system, the cable being part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit the electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit the current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch 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, said junction comprising: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) transmitting or directing transmission over a cabling system including a distribution junction configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (B) controlling or directing the control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

39. 1. A method for controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (A) connecting a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device and a second communication type configured for media communication to a cabling system, the cable being part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit the electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit the current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch 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, said junction comprising: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) a distribution junction configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (B) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type.

40. 1. A system for power and communication transmission, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control devices in the facility, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit the current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of branch cables configured to couple to the device; and A system comprising at least a controller configured to control the distribution of the current and / or the activation of the devices by taking into account the currents transmitted within the system.

41. 1. An apparatus for controlling devices in a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, the at least one controller comprising: (A) a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; the current, and a plurality of branch line cables configured to transmit (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of branches configured to couple to the device; (B) operatively coupled to the device; (C) An apparatus configured to control or direct the distribution of the current and / or activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted within the system.

42. 1. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling devices in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (A) connecting a first communication type utilized for controlling the device and a second communication type configured for media communication to a cabling system, the cable being part of a cabling system to which the device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry the electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; the current, and transmitting or directing transmission over a cabling system including a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branches being configured to couple to the device; (B) controlling or directing the distribution of the current and / or activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted within the system.

43. 1. A method for controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (A) connecting a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device and a second communication type configured for media communication to a cabling system, the cable being part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled, the cabling system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry the electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control the device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; the current, and transmitting over a cabling system including a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branches being configured to couple to the device; (B) by considering the currents transmitted within the system. and / or controlling activation of said device.

44. 1. A system for controlling at least one device in a facility, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch 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: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (g) a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device.

45. 1. A method of controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (A) (I) a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; (II) a branch cable configured to transmit (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable configured to couple to the at least one device; and (III) A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction comprising: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (g) a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (B) at least partially controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type.

46. 1. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising: at least one controller; (A) a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch 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: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (g) a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device; (B) using or directing the use of said cabling system; (C) an apparatus configured to at least partially control or direct the control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

47. 1. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product including written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors operatively coupled to a cabling system of the facility, cause the one or more processors to perform operations, the cabling system including: a trunk cable configured to carry electrical current, a first communication type utilized to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) the current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch 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: (a) coupling along the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; (b) coupled to the branch line by the third connection portion; (c) directing the current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (d) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection; (e) directing the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (f) directing the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (g) a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device, wherein the operation includes: (A) using or directing the use of said cabling system; (B) at least partially controlling or directing the control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

48. 1. A method of controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (a) directing transmission of electrical current from the trunk cable to a device via a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable via a distribution junction configured to direct electrical current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (b) monitoring power consumption of the devices on the trunk cable, the distribution junctions, and the branch cables; (c) controlling the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to said monitoring.

49. 1. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device in a facility, the non-transitory computer readable program product comprising written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors operatively coupled to a cabling system of the facility, cause the one or more processors to: (a) directing transmission of the electrical current from a trunk cable of the cabling system to a device at the premises via a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable via a distribution junction configured to direct the electrical current from the trunk cable to a branch cable; (b) monitoring or directing the monitoring of power consumption of the devices on the trunk cable, the distribution junctions, and the branch cables; (c) in response to said monitoring, controlling or directing the control of said current from said trunk cable to said device.

50. 1. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising: at least one controller; (a) operably coupled to the facility's cabling system and to a source of electrical current; (b) directing transmission of the current from the trunk cable of the cabling system to devices at the premises via branch cables operably coupled to the trunk cable via distribution junctions configured to direct the current from the trunk cable to branch cables; (c) monitoring or directing the monitoring of power consumption of the devices on the trunk cable, the distribution junctions, and the branch cables; (d) an apparatus configured to control or direct the control of the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to said monitoring.

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