Facility data and power network

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Not only is high data rate wired and wireless connectivity becoming increasingly desirable, but sometimes necessary, so that facilities (e.g., buildings) can not only enable the transmission of wireless signals, but also facilitate such transmission and / or facilitate a robust wired network. This will be particularly relevant when wireless connectivity migrates to higher frequency carrier bands (e.g., in the case of 5th generation (5G) wireless networks) and / or when the connection of the physical infrastructure of a facility (e.g., a building) to a network increases.

[0003] Implementing a cable network that individually addresses multiple centrally controlled targets (e.g., devices, or components) can become complex and costly as the number of communicatively coupled targets increases. The targets can be of different types (e.g., including sensors, antennas, output devices, and / or colorable windows, e.g., optically switchable devices). The complexity of the cable network can further increase if the network is required to facilitate the streaming of multiple functions (e.g., voice, image, data, and / or current) to these targets. When a target (e.g., a third-party device) is coupled to the network, the network can break down or otherwise malfunction (e.g., due to excessive (e.g., electrical) power consumption). When the cable system is long and / or includes multiple junctions (e.g., nodes), signals transmitted over this network tend to attenuate, resulting in a large amount of noise and becoming unreadable (e.g., degrading as it propagates along the network). Some signals (e.g., 5G signals) that can minimally penetrate (e.g., not penetrate) an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building) may need to be transmitted from the external environment to the enclosure via the cable network. The cable network can increase in its scope and / or complexity as the number of (e.g., parallel) cable lines, targets, data, communications, and / or power distribution increases in number, distance, and / or amount. In some embodiments, power distribution includes the distribution of any of the power components, e.g., the distribution of current. Thus, networks with conventional cabling types and topologies can be costly and / or inappropriate for such high-density applications. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Various aspects disclosed herein mitigate at least some of the above disadvantages.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a system, apparatus, and / or non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., software) that facilitates 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., distinguishable) frequency windows. For example, a single stream type may be limited to one or more (e.g., distinguishable) frequency windows. Power to a target may be controlled (e.g., managed and / or restricted). The targets may be identified, and optionally, their identification information may be verified (e.g., via a blockchain) before being fully connected to a communication network including the cabling. Nodes communicatively coupled to the cable architecture of the network and / or network cabling may be designed to maintain and / or increase the strength of signals transmitted over the network. The cable network may facilitate the transmission of signals from the external environment to the enclosure and then to the internal enclosure environment, and vice versa, for example, by using external and internal antennas. The system can include a direct current (hereinafter abbreviated as "DC") distributor, a repeater, a range extender, and / or a signal transponder. Examples of blockchain usage, identification, security, and control systems can be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 858,634, filed on June 7, 2019, entitled "SECURE BUILDING SERVICES NETWORK", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0007] In another aspect, a system for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the system comprising: (a) a cabling system having a cable configured to transmit a current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device of the facility, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system being configured to operably couple to at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and transmit a signal of the second communication type from outside the facility, the first antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; (c) a second antenna configured to (i) receive a signal of the second communication type inside the facility and (ii) transmit a signal of the second communication type inside the facility, 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 at least one device using the first communication type.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cable is configured to simultaneously transmit 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 one frequency window. In some embodiments, the first communication type includes a plurality of frequency windows. In some embodiments, the second communication type is within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes a plurality of frequency windows. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to one or more signal frequency filters. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to one or more signal amplifiers and / or repeaters. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes fourth generation (4G) and / or fifth generation (5G) cellular communication. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes analog radio frequency signals. In some embodiments, the first antenna is a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the second antenna is part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the second antenna is disposed in one of a plurality of edge distribution frame devices disposed within a facility. In some embodiments, the current is direct current. In some embodiments, the current directed to at least one device is direct current at up to approximately 48 volts. In some embodiments, the cable of the cabling system is a coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes an optical cable. In some embodiments, the facility includes a floor, and the cabling system includes an optical cable that transmits the first communication type and / or the second communication type between floors. In some embodiments, the facility includes a plurality of control panels, and the cabling system includes an optical cable that transmits the first communication type and / or the second communication type between the plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes power unevenly. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes the first communication type and / or the second communication type unevenly.In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction comprises an active element. In some embodiments, the active element is a controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate a first communication type. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to operably couple to a building management system. In some embodiments, the first communication type is generated by and / or utilized by at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one device comprises sensors, emitters, antennas, switchable windows, lighting, security systems, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC). In some embodiments, the sensors are motion sensitive. In some embodiments, the sensors comprise accelerometers. In some embodiments, the emitters comprise light emitters or sound emitters. In some embodiments, the sensors comprise infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light sensors. In some embodiments, the sensors are sensitive to at least one environmental characteristic including humidity, carbon dioxide, temperature, sound, electromagnetic fields, volatile organic compounds, or pressure. In some embodiments, the sensors comprise gas sensors sensitive to gas type, motion, and / or pressure. In some embodiments, the device is part of a device ensemble that includes 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 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 supertall building.

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

[0010] In another aspect, an apparatus for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller operably coupled to a system and configured to execute or direct the execution of at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed by the same controller of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

[0011] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product comprising written instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operably coupled to a system. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed by the same processor of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed 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.

[0012] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller being configured to: (a) couple to a cabling system having a cable configured to transmit an electric current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system being configured to operably couple to at least one device; (b) couple to a first antenna configured to receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and transmit a signal of the second communication type from outside the facility; (c) couple to a second antenna configured to receive a signal of the second communication type inside the facility and transmit a signal of the second communication type inside the facility; (d) direct the second communication type from the first antenna to the second antenna and from the second antenna to the first antenna and operably couple to at least one device of the facility; and (e) control at least one device of the facility by using or instructing the use of the first communication type. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (a)-(e) are performed by the same controller of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a)-(e) are performed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

[0013] 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 having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (a) transmit or instruct the transmission of an electric current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication via a cable that is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled; (b) receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and direct the signal of the second communication type received by a first antenna configured to transmit a signal of the second communication type from outside the facility to a second antenna, and receive a signal of the second communication type inside the facility and direct the signal of the second communication type received by a second antenna configured to transmit a signal of the second communication type inside the facility to the first antenna; (c) control or instruct the control of 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 processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different processors of 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 of a facility, the method comprising: (a) transmitting, via a cable that is part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled, (i) an electric current, (ii) a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device, and (iii) a second communication type configured for media communication; (b) receiving a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and directing the signal of the second communication type received by a first antenna configured to transmit signals of the second communication type from outside the facility to a second antenna, and receiving a signal of the second communication type inside the facility and directing the signal of the second communication type received by 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 current, a first communication type, and a second communication type over a 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 a signal frequency that overlaps with the second communication type. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first communication type within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the first communication type within a plurality of frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the second communication type within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the second communication type within a plurality of 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 at one of a plurality of edge distribution frame devices disposed within a 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 cable of the cabling system as a coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes an optical cable. In some embodiments, the facility comprises a floor. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes an optical cable configured to transmit (i) a first communication type and / or (ii) a second communication type between floors. In some embodiments, the facility comprises a plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a cabling system that includes an optical cable configured to transmit (i) a first communication type and / or (ii) a 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 distributes power unevenly. In some embodiments, the method further includes a distribution junction that distributes the first communication type and / or the second communication type unevenly. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the distribution junction as a passive element. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using the 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 that includes a sensor, a radiator, an antenna, a colorable window, lighting, a security system, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC), or any combination or plurality thereof.In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to sense movement. 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 comprises ~, and 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 gas type, movement, and / or pressure. In some embodiments, the method further comprises 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 comprises configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring one or more devices to be at least two devices of different types. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring a facility to be a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring a cabling system to provide services to at least a portion of a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a super high-rise building. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and / or using the cabling system as a backbone cable. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and / or using a distribution junction configured to operably couple the backbone cable to branch cables.

[0017] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller being configured to be operably coupled to a cabling system, the cabling system including a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, and branch cables configured to transmit current and either (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cables being configured to couple to at least one device, a distribution splice comprising a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the splice being configured to (a) couple along the main cable by the first and second connections, (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection, (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable, (e) direct current from the main cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable, (g) be operably coupled to at least one device, and (h) control at least one device using or instructing the use of the first communication type.

[0018] In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power request (e.g., a current request) from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receipt of a power requirement (e.g., a current requirement) from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to direct current along a trunk cable to at least one device, and the current is transmitted through a distribution junction. In some embodiments, the transmission of current through the distribution junction is performed without controlling at least one controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to not be controlled by a first controller configured to control (i) current, (ii) a first communication type, (iii) a second communication type, or (iv) any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is controlled by a second controller different from the first controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is not controlled by a controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes a controller configured to control (i) current, (ii) a first communication type, and / or (iii) a second communication type transmitted through the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is active. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to control the directed current in response to a power requirement (e.g., a current requirement) received from at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to formulate or direct the formulation of a time schedule for the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of the time required for a given process to occur in a device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or direct the determination of the time when the operation of at least one device is required.In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine, or direct the determination of, (i) an operating mode, (ii) a scheme of at least one device, or (iii) any combination or plurality thereof. In some embodiments, the determination is at least partially based on the operation of at least one other device operably coupled to the network. In some embodiments, the operating mode includes continuous operation and / or intermittent operation. In some embodiments, at least one device includes a first device having a first operating mode and a second device having a second operating mode, and at least one controller has the first operating mode and the second operating mode. Interlace or thereof Interlace configured to direct. In some embodiments, at least one device includes a first device configured to issue a first request and a second device configured to issue a second request, and at least one controller has the first request and the second request Interlace or thereof Interlaceis configured to indicate. In some embodiments, at least one device is a third-party device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to manage or instruct the management of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to operate or instruct the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to identify or instruct the identification of how at least one controller is operably coupled to (i) one of a plurality of channels and / or (ii) a particular one of at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to prioritize or instruct the prioritization of the power budget of at least one device and / or channel according to logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes business logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes spatial designations. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes prioritization of spaces in a facility. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes one type of (e.g., one kind of) space. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes a space having at least one characteristic including height, width, length, floor area, volume, temperature, humidity level, contaminant level, radon level, particle level, carbon dioxide level, volatile organic compound (VOC) level, pollen level, living space, commercial space, office space, space including one or more cubicles, dining space, living space, bedroom space, garage, factory, basement, storage area, dressing room, closet, entry hall, corridor, windowless space, space having one or more windows, space having an outer wall, space having only an inner wall, insulated space, non-insulated space, soundproof space, non-soundproof space, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes occupancy level. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or instruct the determination of occupancy level using at least one occupancy sensor.In some embodiments, 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 by a global positioning system (GPS). In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to determine or instruct the determination of an occupancy level based at least in part on dead reckoning. In some embodiments, spatial designation includes an occupancy zone. In some embodiments, the logic includes a schedule or one or more external conditions outside the facility. In some embodiments, the logic includes (i) device specifications, (ii) device power requirements, (iii) device power requirements for at least one device, (iv) power requirements 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 reasonable inferences. In some embodiments, the device power requirements specify one or more specifications including (i) the amount of power, (ii) the delivery time of power, or (iii) the delivery period of power. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to use or instruct the use of power budget prioritization to generate a power distribution scheme for the channel among a plurality of channels and / or the device among at least one device. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to distribute or instruct the distribution of power (e.g., current) to the channel among a plurality of channels and / or the device among at least one device.In some embodiments, at least one device comprises a plurality of devices, and at least one controller is configured to define or direct the definition of a list of device priorities regarding power usage among the plurality of devices. In some embodiments, 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, at least one controller is configured to receive or direct the receiving of a power (e.g., current) budget request from one or more of the plurality of devices. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to consider (i) a power budget request, (ii) a power budget request and any other power budget requests, (iii) the power distribution status within the network, (iv) the predicted power distribution within the network at some future point in time, (v) the power usage history of any of the plurality of devices within the network, (vi) the power usage trend of any of the plurality of devices, or (vii) any combination or plurality of these, or direct the consideration thereof. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate or direct the generation of a result regarding the power distribution of one of the plurality of devices from which the at least one controller received a power budget request. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to intermittently supply power (e.g., current) to the device among the plurality of devices from which the at least one controller received a power budget request, or direct the supply thereof. In some embodiments, the intermittent supply includes regular (e.g., repeating) intervals. In some embodiments, the intermittent supply includes irregular (e.g., non-repeating) intervals. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to delay or direct the delay of a continuous supply of power (e.g., current) to the device among the plurality of devices from which the at least one controller received a power budget request.In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to disconnect or instruct the disconnection of one of a plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is consuming power in excess of a threshold. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to terminate or instruct the termination of a second communication type for one of a plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power in excess of a threshold. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to remove or instruct the removal of at least a portion of the power from one of a plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is utilizing power in excess of a threshold. In some embodiments, the priority list is at least partially based on business logic. In some embodiments, the power budget requirement is for a modified power budget. In some embodiments, the power usage trend is determined based at least in part on machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is operably coupled to a network to which one or more colorable windows are operably coupled. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to generate or instruct the generation of a model using one or more operating modes of a colorable window. In some embodiments, one or more operating modes include transitions of one or more colorable windows. In some embodiments, one or more operating modes include artificial intelligence or machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to collect or instruct the collection of information to generate a training set. In some embodiments, the collected information includes a measurement history. In some embodiments, the measurement history is that of a facility. In some embodiments, the measurement history is that of another facility. In some embodiments, the information collected includes a composite measurement value. In some embodiments, the information collected is collected from the software and / or hardware of a local controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to use or direct the use of a training set to predict the power usage of at least one device at some future point in time. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to deliver or direct the delivery of power to at least one device, at least in part based on a prediction of the power (e.g., current) usage of at least one device at some future point in time. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes a circuit. In some embodiments, at least two of (a)-(h) are performed by the same controller of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a)-(h) are performed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

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

[0020] 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, cause the one or more processors to perform the operation of any one of the at least one controller disclosed above. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operably coupled to a backbone cable. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same processor of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, 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 of a facility, the system comprising any one of the structural components of the structures (e.g., devices) disclosed above.

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

[0023] 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 having instructions that, when read by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: (A) transmit or direct the transmission of current, a first communication type used for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication via a cabling system, the cable being part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system including a trunk cable configured to transmit current, the first communication type used for controlling at least one device, and the second communication type configured for media communication, and branch cables configured to transmit current and (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cables being configured to couple to at least one device, and a distribution splice having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the splice being configured to: (a) couple along the trunk cable by the first and second connections, (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection, (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 cable, and (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (B) control or direct the control of at least one device by using the first communication type.

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

[0025] In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) transmitting, via a cabling system, an electric current, a first communication type used to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system including a main cable configured to transmit the electric current, the first communication type used to control at least one device, and the second communication type configured for media communication, and branch cables configured to transmit the electric current and (i) the first communication type, and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cables being configured to couple to at least one device, and a distribution splice having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the splice being configured to: (a) couple to the main cable along the main cable by the first and second connections; (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection; (c) direct the electric current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (e) direct the electric current from the main cable to the branch cable; and (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main 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 transmission and communication transmission, the system comprising: a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type used for controlling devices of a facility, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit current and (i) the first communication type, and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of branch cables being configured to be coupled to devices; and at least a controller configured to control current distribution and / or device activation by considering the current transmitted within the system.

[0027] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling devices of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller being operably coupled to: (A) a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type used for controlling devices, and a second communication type configured for media communication; and a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit current and (i) the first communication type, and / or (ii) the second communication type, the plurality of branch cables being configured to be coupled to devices, the at least one controller being operably coupled to a device and being configured to control current distribution and / or device activation by considering the current transmitted within the system.

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

[0029] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling devices of 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 or instruct transmission via a cabling system that includes a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type used for controlling devices, and a second communication type configured for media communication, and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit current and (i) the first communication type, and / or (ii) the second communication type, wherein the branch lines are configured to be coupled to devices, the cabling system being part of a cabling system to which the devices are operably coupled; and (B) control or instruct control of current distribution and / or device activation by considering the 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 among one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are performed by different processors among one or more processors. In some embodiments, operation (A) is performed by a processor different from the processor that performs operation (B), the processor and the different processor being processors among 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 of a facility, the method comprising: (A) transmitting, via a cabling system that includes a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, the cabling system being part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operatively coupled, and a plurality of branch cables configured to transmit current and either (i) the first communication type and / or (ii) the second communication type, the branch cables being configured to couple to the device; and (B) controlling current distribution and / or device activation by considering the current transmitted within the system.

[0032] In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system comprising: a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type utilized for controlling the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable being configured to couple to the at least one device; a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction being configured to: (a) couple to the main cable along the main cable by the first connection and the second connection; (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (e) direct current from the main cable to the branch cable; (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable; and (g) be operably coupled to the at least one device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to facilitate bi-directional communication. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct current from a second connection to a first connection along a 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) both 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 from a second connection to a first connection along a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from a branch cable to a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to connect to at least one device via a trunk.

[0034] In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) (I) a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type used to control at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; (II) a branch cable configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch being configured to couple to at least one device; (III) a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction being configured to: (a) couple along the main cable by the first and second connections; (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (e) direct current from the main cable to the branch cable; (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable; (g) be configured to operably couple to at least one device; using a cabling system including the above; 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 that facilitates two-way communication. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct current from a second connection to a first connection along a backbone cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from a second connection to a first connection along a backbone cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to direct a first communication type and / or a second communication type from a branch cable to a backbone cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using a distribution junction to connect at least one device via a backbone. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to passively direct current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to actively and / or dynamically direct current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type. In some embodiments, directing current, a first communication type, and / or a second communication type by 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 of a facility, the apparatus comprising: (A) a main cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch cable configured to transmit (i) current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable being configured to couple to at least one device; a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction being configured to: (a) couple to the main cable along the first and second connections; (b) couple to the branch cable at the third connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; (e) direct current from the main cable to the branch cable; (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable; and (g) be operably coupled to at least one device; operably coupled to a cabling system; (B) use or instruct the use of the cabling system; and (C) at least partially control or instruct the control of at least one device by using the first communication type, comprising at least one controller.

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

[0038] 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, cause the one or more processors to perform operations, the cabling system including a main cable configured to transmit electric current, a first communication type utilized for controlling at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, and a branch cable configured to transmit (i) electric current, (ii) the first communication type, and / or (iii) the second communication type, the branch cable being configured to couple to at least one device, a distribution splice having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution splice being configured to (a) couple to the main cable along the main cable by the first and second connections, (b) couple to the branch cable by the third connection, (c) direct electric current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable, (d) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable, (e) direct electric current from the main cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first communication type and / or the second communication type from the main cable to the branch cable, (g) be configured to operably couple to at least one device, and the operations including (A) using or instructing the use of the cabling system, and (B) at least partially controlling or instructing 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 a 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, a non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0040] In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (a) directing transmission of current from a main cable to the device via a branch cable operably coupled to the main cable via a distribution junction configured to direct current from the main cable to the branch cable; (b) monitoring power (e.g., current) consumption of the device at the main cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable; and (c) controlling the current from the main 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 single-family homes. In some embodiments, the residential facility includes multi-family homes. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct communication from a trunk cable to a branch cable. In some embodiments, the communication includes a first communication type and a second communication type. In some embodiments, the first communication type utilizes a wavelength different from the wavelength utilized by the second communication type. In some embodiments, the communication includes media communication. In some embodiments, the communication includes cellular communication. In some embodiments, the cellular communication is compliant with at least (i) fourth generation, (ii) fifth generation, or (iii) fourth and fifth generation cellular communication protocols. In some embodiments, the communication includes data transfer. In some embodiments, the communication complies with a control protocol. In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling communication from a trunk cable to a device in response to monitoring. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device as a sensor, a radiator, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and / or using at least one device as an antenna.

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

[0043] 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 which, 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 a 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 of a facility, the system comprising any of the structural components of the structures (e.g., apparatuses) 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 source of an electric current (e.g., an electric current), cause the one or more processors to (a) direct the transmission of an electric current from a main cable of the cabling system to a device of the facility via a branch cable operably coupled to the main cable via a distribution junction configured to direct the electric current from the main cable to the branch cable, (b) monitor or instruct the monitoring of the power consumption (e.g., electric current) of the device at the main cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable, and (c) control or instruct the control of the electric current from the main 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 executed by the same processor of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are executed 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.

[0047] In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus being operably coupled to (a) the cabling system of the facility and a power source of current, and transmitting current from the main cable of the cabling system to the device of the facility via a branch cable operably coupled to the main cable via a distribution junction configured to direct the current from the main cable to the branch cable, and (c) monitoring or instructing the monitoring of the power consumption of the device in the main cable, the distribution junction, and the branch cable, and (d) controlling or instructing the control of the current from the main cable to the device in response to the monitoring, and comprising at least one controller configured as such.

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

[0049] The present disclosure provides a system, apparatus, and / or non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., software) that facilitates wired and / or wireless connectivity within an enclosure and between the enclosure and an external environment. In certain implementations, a control panel is provided that is configured to provide network services to end targets (e.g., devices) within a facility (e.g., a building). The end targets (e.g., devices) can be coupled together by a network that includes at least one coaxial cable. The control panel can include a coaxial cable connector configured to couple to at least one coaxial cable. The control panel can include a direct current (DC) power supply, a data networking head end, and / or a cellular communication head end. In some embodiments, the DC power supply is (i) coupled to the coaxial cable connector and (ii) configured to provide a DC signal to at least a portion of at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the data networking head end is (i) coupled to the coaxial cable connector and (ii) configured to communicate with at least a first subset of end targets (e.g., devices) within an enclosure (e.g., a building) (e.g., using a communication protocol and / or via at least one coaxial cable). In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is coupled to the coaxial cable connector. In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is coupled to at least a second subset of end targets (e.g., devices) within an enclosure (e.g., a building) via at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is configured to provide a first cellular communication to the coaxial cable connector for transmission via the second subset of end targets (e.g., devices). In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end 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] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. A control panel in which a second subset of end devices includes a cellular antenna, and the cellular communication head end is configured to transmit a first cellular communication via the cellular antenna and receive a second cellular communication when the second cellular communication is received by the cellular antenna. A control panel in which a second subset of end devices includes a passive antenna, and the cellular communication head end is configured to transmit a first cellular communication via the passive antenna and receive a second cellular communication when the second cellular communication is received by the passive antenna. A control panel in which the data networking head end is a G.hn head end and the communication protocol is the G.hn protocol. A control panel in which the data networking head end is a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) head end and the communication protocol is the MoCA protocol. A control panel that also includes a controller configured to manage consumption of DC signals among power consumption devices by negotiating with the power consumption devices (e.g., electrically) via the data network head end, where a first subset of end devices are power consumption devices. A control panel that also includes a plurality of optical fiber connectors and is configured to communicate with an additional control panel via an optical fiber coupled to the optical fiber connector. A control panel in which a first subset of end devices includes a plurality of window controllers and the control panel also includes a floor window controller configured to (i) generate a coloring transition command and (ii) transmit the coloring transition command to the window controllers using the data network head end. A control panel in which the data networking head end is configured to generate and receive signals in a first frequency range as part of communicating with a communication protocol, where the first cellular communication and the second cellular communication are in a second frequency range and 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 may include 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 a DC signal from the first network cable via the low-pass filter and convert the DC signal into one or more adjusted DC signals, a second connector configured to provide a first adjusted DC signal from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable, one or more controllers collectively configured to (1) receive and be powered by one of the adjusted DC signals from the DC-DC circuit and (2) provide bi-directional 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 adjusted DC signals from the DC-DC circuit, (ii) receive or generate a coloring transition command, and (iii) provide a coloring transition signal based on the coloring transition command to at least one optically switchable window via the third connector.

[0052] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. A first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, a second external device is an end device, and one or more controllers are configured to receive a power delivery request from the end device and transfer the power delivery request to the control panel. One or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption with the second external device for a first regulated DC signal, and prior to negotiating power consumption, one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device for the first regulated DC signal to a predetermined limit. One or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector, and the G.hn interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication using the G.hn communication protocol between the first external device and the apparatus. One or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to a first connector, and the MoCA interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication using the MoCA communication protocol between the first external device and the apparatus. One or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the Ethernet interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication using the Ethernet communication protocol between the second external device and the apparatus. One or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector, and the G.hn interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication using the G.hn communication protocol between the first external device and the apparatus, one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the Ethernet interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication using the Ethernet communication protocol between the second external device and the apparatus, and one or more controllers are configured to translate communication between the G.hn communication protocol and the Ethernet communication protocol. An apparatus, wherein the low-pass filter includes an inductive choke.An apparatus in which the DC-DC circuit includes at least one of a step-down converter and a step-up converter. An apparatus in which the first regulated DC signal provided to the second connector includes a 48-volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet network protocol.

[0053] Certain embodiments may include a network adapter. The network adapter includes 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 a DC signal from the first network cable via the low-pass filter and convert the DC signal into one or more regulated DC signals, a second connector configured to provide one of the regulated DC signals from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable, and one or more controllers collectively configured to (1) receive and thereby power from the DC-DC circuit one of the regulated DC signals, (2) communicate bi-directionally with a first external device coupled to the one or more controllers via the first connector using a first communication protocol, (3) communicate bi-directionally with a second external device coupled to the one or more controllers via the second connector using a second communication protocol, and (4) provide bi-directional 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] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. A first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, a second external device is an end device, and one or more controllers are configured to receive a power delivery request (e.g., electrical) from the end device in a first communication protocol and transfer the power delivery request to the control panel in a second communication protocol, a network adapter. One or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption with a second external device for a first regulated DC signal, and prior to negotiating power consumption, one or more controllers are configured to limit power consumption by the second external device for the first regulated DC signal to a predetermined limit, a network adapter. One or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to a first connector, and the first communication protocol is a G.hn communication protocol, a network adapter. One or more controllers include a Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) interface coupled to a first connector, and the first communication protocol is a MoCA communication protocol, a network adapter. One or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to a second connector, and the second communication protocol is an Ethernet communication protocol, a network adapter. The first connector is a coaxial cable connector and the second connector is a Power over Ethernet connector, a network adapter. One of the regulated DC signals provided by the second connector is a 48-volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet protocol, a network adapter.

[0055] A particular embodiment may include a system. The system includes a control panel configured to generate a DC signal, a plurality of distribution joints, a first coaxial cable trunk, and a plurality of additional coaxial cable trunks. The first coaxial cable trunk is coupled between the control panel and a first joint among the distribution joints, and the additional coaxial cable trunks are coupled between respective pairs of the distribution joints. The distribution joints, the first coaxial cable trunk, and the additional coaxial cable trunks are collectively configured to (i) transmit a DC signal from the control panel to each of the distribution joints, (ii) transmit a first time-varying signal formatted in a first digital communication protocol bidirectionally between the control panel and each of the distribution joints, and (iii) transmit a second time-varying signal formatted in a second digital communication protocol bidirectionally between at least one of the control panel and the distribution joints. The first time-varying signal is a signal in a first frequency band, 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] Certain embodiments may include one or more of the following features. A system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalanced transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, where the primary circuit is coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit is coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, the tertiary circuit is coupled to a coaxial cable branch line specific to the distribution junction, has a first (e.g., communication signal such as RF) power level, and the first time-varying signal received by the primary circuit is unevenly divided between the secondary circuit and the tertiary circuit, such that the secondary circuit receives the first time-varying signal at a second (e.g., communication signal such as RF) 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., communication signal such as RF) power level that is 25% or less of the first power level. A system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalanced transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, where the primary circuit is coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit is coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, the tertiary circuit is coupled to a coaxial cable branch line specific to the distribution junction, has a first power level, and the first time-varying signal received by the primary circuit is unevenly divided between the secondary circuit and the tertiary circuit, 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, and the third power level is less than the second power level. 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 line associated with the distribution junction. A system in which the second time-varying signal is a cellular communication signal and the first junction of the distribution junctions includes a branched circuit including a passive cellular antenna. A system in which the first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal and the first junction of the distribution junctions includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating from the first junction of the distribution junctions to the remaining junctions of the distribution junctions.The first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal, and at least one of the distribution joints includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating from the upstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution joint to the downstream coaxial cable trunk. A system. A second joint of the distribution joints is directly coupled to a first joint of the distribution joints by a first trunk of the additional coaxial cable trunks, and a second joint of the distribution joints includes a branch circuit including an additional passive cellular antenna. A system. The first frequency band associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal, and the second joint of the distribution joints includes a low-pass filter configured to prevent the cellular communication signal from propagating to the remaining joints of the distribution joints beyond the first and second distribution joints. A system.

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

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

[0059] In another aspect, the apparatus comprises at least one controller programmed to instruct a mechanism used to implement (e.g., carry out) any of the methods disclosed herein, and the at least one controller is 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 can implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

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

[0062] In another aspect, a computer software product comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions, which when read by a computer, cause the computer to implement (e.g., execute) any of the methods disclosed herein by instructing the mechanisms disclosed herein, and the non-transitory computer-readable medium is operably coupled to the mechanisms. The mechanisms can comprise any device (or any of its components) 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, implements 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, executes instructions of 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 comprises machine-executable code that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein and / or executes instructions of the controller(s) disclosed herein.

[0066] The content of this summary section is provided as a simplified introduction to the present disclosure and is not intended to be used to limit the scope of any invention disclosed herein or the scope of 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, which illustrates only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As will be understood, the present disclosure is capable of other different embodiments and some of the details thereof can be modified in various obvious respects 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 described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] The novel features of the present invention are specifically described in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention can be obtained by referring to the following detailed description that describes exemplary embodiments in which the principles of the present invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings or figures (also referred to herein as "figures" and "multiple figures").

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[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.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

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

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

[0074] When a range is recited, unless otherwise specified, the range is meant to be inclusive. For example, a range between a value 1 and a value 2 is inclusive and means including the value 1 and the value 2. The inclusive range extends to any value from approximately value 1 to approximately value 2. As used herein, the term "adjacent" or "adjacent to" includes "next to", "adjoining", "in contact with", and "in proximity to".

[0075] When used in this specification such as in the claims, the conjunction "and / or" in phrases such as "including X, Y, and / or Z" refers to any combination of X, Y, and Z or multiple 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 multiple X. For example, such a phrase means including multiple Y. For example, such a phrase means including multiple Z. For example, such a phrase means including multiple X and multiple Y. For example, such a phrase means including multiple X and multiple Z. For example, such a phrase means including multiple Y and multiple Z. For example, such a phrase means including multiple X and Y. For example, such a phrase means including multiple X and Z. For example, such a phrase means including multiple Y and Z. For example, such a phrase means including X and multiple Y. For example, such a phrase means including X and multiple Z. For example, such a phrase means including Y and multiple Z. The conjunction "and / or" means having the same effect as the phrase "X, Y, Z, or any combination or multiple thereof". The conjunction "and / or" means having the same effect as the phrase "one or more of X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof". The conjunction "and / or" means having the same effect as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof". The conjunction "and / or" means having the same effect as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z".

[0076] The terms "operatively coupled" or "operatively connected" refer to a first element (e.g., 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. The 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., mechanism) "configured" to perform a function includes structural features that cause the element to perform this function. The structural features can include electrical features such as a circuit or circuit element. The structural features can include a circuit (e.g., comprising an electrical circuit or an optical circuit). The electrical circuit can comprise one or more wires. The optical circuit can comprise at least one optical element (e.g., a beam splitter, a mirror, a lens, and / or an optical fiber). The structural features can include mechanical features. The mechanical features can comprise a latch, a spring, a closure, a hinge, a chassis, a support, a fastener, or a cantilever, etc. Performing a function can include utilizing logical features. The logical features can include programming instructions. The programming instructions can be made executable by at least one processor. The 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 as necessary.

[0078] Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). The network infrastructure is available for various purposes such as providing 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 for the occupants of the facility and / or users outside the facility (e.g., building). The network infrastructure may operate in conjunction with the infrastructure of one or more cellular service providers or function as a replacement for a portion of such infrastructure. The network infrastructure may be provided within a facility that includes colorable (e.g., electrically switchable) windows. An example of a component of the network infrastructure is a high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor, or controller (which may include a processor). The network infrastructure may be operably coupled to a wireless network and / or may 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 a jacket, insulator, wire, and / or optical fiber. 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, multi-core cable, pair cable, portable cord, ribbon cable, shielded cable, single cable, inside wiring, underwater cable, Twinax cable, twin and earth (TT&E) cable, twin lead, and / or twisted pair. The coaxial cable may have, for example, a characteristic impedance of up to about 50 or 75 ohms (e.g., LMR-400).

[0080] In some embodiments, the network infrastructure provides additional coverage. The additional coverage can exceed the coverage provided by a cellular carrier. The additional coverage can be (i) inside a building and / or (ii) outside a building. For example, the network infrastructure can provide and / or supplement the capabilities of a cellular carrier that provides coverage and any other capacity outside a building. For example, the network infrastructure can provide and / or supplement cellular coverage near a facility (e.g., a building). Near a facility can 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 can be between any of the foregoing values (e.g., about 10 m to about 1000 m, about 10 m to about 500 m, or about 500 m to about 1000 m). Near a building can be within the grounds of the facility. In some cases, the facility and its associated network infrastructure can function as a cell tower.

[0081] High-speed, high-frequency communication protocols such as the fifth-generation (5G) communication protocol face challenges before they can be widely adopted and popularized. For example, compared to lower-frequency communication bands, higher-frequency bands may require more antennas. For example, it is estimated that to deploy 5G cellular service in a given area, more than twice the number of antennas required to provide the same level of service as a fourth-generation (4G) communication protocol cellular service will be needed. Some of those antennas can be provided on a facility or a part of a facility. Consider an example of providing 5G in an urban canyon such as a road in a metropolitan area like Manhattan, New York, or Singapore. For 5G service, many antennas may be needed to provide adequate coverage and capacity in these cities. Currently, the public spaces (such as utility poles) where carriers can deploy antennas to provide adequate 5G coverage (and / or other capacity) are insufficient. Private buildings spanning urban valleys can provide locations for 5G antennas.

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

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

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

[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 in a controllable manner. In various embodiments, the systems and / or devices are 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 partially automatically controlled (e.g., fully automatically controlled). One or more components of the systems and / or devices described herein are fully automatically controlled. Being controlled can include being attenuated, modulated, changed, managed, suppressed, trained, adjusted, constrained, monitored, operated, and / or guided. In some embodiments, control is achieved by using controllable active elements that receive, analyze, operate on (e.g., convert and / or compare) and / or retransmit signals. For example, (i) a receiving antenna can face in a direction that is on one side of a facility (e.g., a wall or window), and (ii) a transmitter antenna can face in a different (e.g., opposite or substantially opposite) direction on the other side of the facility (e.g., a different wall or window). Between the receiver and the transmitter, the active element can include one or more transceivers and / or other signal converters. In some embodiments, (I) when the active element is active (e.g., "on"), a signal is being transmitted, and (II) when the element is inactive (e.g., "off"), no signal is being transmitted.

[0086] In some embodiments, the active element that receives and (e.g., automatically) retransmits a wireless communication signal is a repeater. This repeater can amplify the signal and / or, in other cases, transmit the signal to a location where the signal is not received. The repeater (or other active element) can include a particular combination of antennas. The combination of antennas can include an antenna of a type that is inside a facility (e.g., a building) and a different type of antenna outside the facility (or on the opposite side of an inner wall or window). In connection with the description of the various antenna types herein, some embodiments use a handle antenna outside the building that is operatively coupled to one of the other antennas (e.g., a microstrip antenna) inside the building. In some implementations, one or both of the antennas are disposed on a standoff feature such as a beauty cap. The antennas can include isotropic antennas, dipole antennas, monopole antennas, array antennas, loop antennas, conical antennas, aperture antennas, traveling wave antennas, or random wire antennas. The loop antennas can include large loops (e.g., quads, or half-loops), intermediate (e.g., halo), and / or small loops (e.g., ferrite) antennas.

[0087] It has been observed that electrochromic windows can block signals within a range of insertion losses of about 10 dB to about 20 dB (e.g., depending on the transmission frequency). Greater losses can occur at higher frequencies. Some embodiments disclosed herein use a wireless repeater and / or a repeater to avoid signal blocking by electrochromic windows. In some embodiments, such a repeater is disposed on or proximate to at least one integrated glass unit (IGU). The IGU can include an electrochromic device (e.g., including a layer structure).

[0088] In certain embodiments, the window and / or wall includes, for example, a layer or structure that substantially (e.g., completely) blocks wireless transmission over a particular spectral range. The layer structure can be that of an IGU. In one example, the blocking layer completely covers one surface of the light (e.g., glass). Examples of window blocking structures are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 709,339, filed on September 19, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The security system can use, for example, a facility structure that attenuates (e.g., weakens) the transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in a particular region of the spectrum (e.g., within at least the 5G region). The facility structure can include a window, door, or wall. The security system can use, for example, a wall and / or window that substantially (e.g., effectively) blocks the transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in a particular region of the spectrum (e.g., in at least the 5G region).

[0089] In some embodiments, the signal repeater and / or retransmitter need not retransmit the wireless signal (e.g., directly) across the facility structure (e.g., wall or window). In some cases, it selectively transmits the wireless signal to one or more locations away from where the signal was received, through the facility. It can carry the received signal using a wired network, for example, by implementing a communication protocol such as Ethernet. For example, an externally generated wireless signal is received by a sensor disposed on the roof (or any other outer wall) of a building and then transmitted via wire from there to one or more remote locations within the facility (e.g., the ground floor, such as ten floors below the roof).

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

[0091] To provide adequate coverage and capacity in building-dense areas such as the center of a particular metropolis, a large number of 5G antennas are expected to be required. Therefore, by deploying 5G antennas on the outdoor part of a building, the data transmission of a cellular network of a telecommunications carrier and the antenna infrastructure can be complemented. In some cases, such antennas are connected to a broadband network infrastructure such as an Ethernet network infrastructure within the building. An exemplary complete or partial wired network infrastructure for supporting such 5G applications is described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,324, filed on February 8, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0092] Various antenna arrangements can be deployed to support 5G cellular and / or other communication services. Both coverage and capacity can be considered during the design of the wireless communication infrastructure. Coverage can be addressed by providing various antennas strategically placed (e.g., attached to a facility or as part of a facility) to provide cellular service in a defined area. Capacity can be addressed by having broadband data transmission lines and / or switches. Some examples of high-capacity infrastructure are provided in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,324, filed on February 8, 2019, which is hereby incorporated 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 in CBRS, such as a low-power citizens broadband radio (CBRS) baseband radio. In the United States, CBRS is a 150 MHz wide broadcast band in the approximately 3.5 GHz band (e.g., approximately 3550 MHz to approximately 3700 MHz), and this can be used to provide wireless services not authorized by the Federal Communications Commission. Other antennas and associated baseband radios may be provided for cellular communication, for example, in accordance with a particular protocol and / or jurisdiction constraints (e.g., rules and / or regulations). The required baseband radio may be installed in one or more locations within a facility, such as within a digital architecture element. Digital architecture may refer to aspects of an architecture characterized by one or more digital technologies.

[0094] Various embodiments support multiple frequency bands and / or multiple protocols. Examples include cellular (such as 3G, 4G, and / or 5G). Examples include local area networking for 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. The associated transmitter and / or receiver 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 on a coaxial cable). Similar antenna structures may be used to transmit and / or receive signals of multiple protocols.

[0095] A 5G network 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 from 4G LTE mobile broadband services. A 5G network may exhibit faster connections, higher throughput, and / or greater capacity compared to a 4G network. Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC) may refer to using the network for applications that require interruption-free and / or stable data exchange. Using Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC), it is possible to connect a large number of low-power (e.g., current), low-cost devices, for example over a wide area, with high scalability and / or increased battery life.

[0096] In some embodiments, a 5G network transmits at least about 1 Gbit (Gbit / s), 2 Gbit / s, 3 Gbit / s, or 5 Gbit / s of data per second. In some embodiments, the 5G air latency target is at least about 1 millisecond (ms), 2 ms, 3 ms, 4 ms, 5 ms, 8 ms, 10 ms, 11 ms, 15 ms, or 30 ms. The 5G air latency target may be at most about 2 ms, 3 ms, 4 ms, 5 ms, 8 ms, 10 ms, 12 ms, 15 ms, 30 ms, or 40 ms. The 5G air latency target may 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, certain infrastructure includes devices for indoor communication via a 5G protocol (e.g., within a building) that do not support, for example, Wi-Fi. Some 5G antennas can be deployed throughout a building (e.g., when 5G can be limited to line of sight). The antennas can be disposed in one or more locations where Wi-Fi antennas typically exist. In some facilities, 5G will have sufficient bandwidth and / or coverage to provide one or more (e.g., all) of the functions currently provided by Wi-Fi.

[0098] In some embodiments, an enclosure includes an area defined by at least one structure. The at least one structure can include at least one wall. The enclosure can include and / or enclose one or more sub-enclosures. The at least one wall can 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 can include wire, brick, block (e.g., lightweight concrete block), tile, drywall, or frame (e.g., steel frame).

[0099] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more openings. The one or more openings may be reversibly closable. The one or more openings may be permanently open. The basic length scale of the one or more openings may be small relative to the basic length scale of the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The basic length scale may include the diameter, length, width, or 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 certain percentage of the entire surface of the wall(s). For example, the opening surface may be about 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the wall(s). The wall(s) may comprise a floor, ceiling, or sidewall. The closable opening may be closed by at least one window or door. The enclosure may be at least a part of a facility. The enclosure may include at least a part of a building. The building may be a private building and / or a commercial building. The building may include one or more floors. The building (e.g., its floors) may include at least one of a room, hall, entrance, attic, basement, balcony (e.g., an inner or outer balcony), stairwell, corridor, elevator shaft, facade, mezzanine, penthouse, garage, porch (e.g., an enclosed porch), terrace (e.g., an enclosed terrace), cafeteria, and / or duct. In some embodiments, the enclosure may be stationary and / or movable (e.g., a train, plane, ship, vehicle, or rocket). The facility may include one or more enclosures. The facility may be stationary or movable. For example, the facility may include a temporary vehicle such as a car, RV, bus, train, airplane, helicopter, ship, or boat. For example, the facility may include one or more buildings.

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

[0101] Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). The network infrastructure is available for various purposes such as providing communication and / or power services. The communication services may include high-bandwidth (e.g., wireless and / or wired) communication services. The communication services may be for the occupants of the facility and / or users outside the facility (e.g., building). The network infrastructure may cooperate with the infrastructure of one or more cellular service providers or function as a replacement for a part of such infrastructure. The network infrastructure may be provided within a facility that includes electrically switchable windows. An example of a component of the network infrastructure is a high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor, and / or controller (which may include a processor). The network infrastructure may be operably coupled to a wireless network and / or may include a wireless network. The network infrastructure may include wiring. One or more sensors can be deployed (e.g., installed) within the environment as part of the network installation and / or after the network is installed.

[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 comprise one or more controllers operably coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. The disclosed embodiments describe electrochromic windows (also referred to herein as "optically switchable windows", "tintable windows", or "smart windows"), but 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 (such as a window). For example, a liquid crystal device and / or a suspended particle device may be implemented instead of, or in addition to, an electrochromic device. A tintable window may be disposed in any other enclosure, such as a (non-transitory) facility such as a building, and / or a temporary vehicle such as a car, RV, bus, train, airplane, helicopter, ship, or boat.

[0103] In some embodiments, a colorable window exhibits a (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) change in at least one optical property of the window when stimulated, for example. The stimulation can include optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimulation. For example, the stimulation can include an applied voltage. By using one or more colorable windows, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating through them, lighting conditions and / or glare conditions can be controlled. By using one or more colorable windows, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating through them, the temperature inside an enclosure (e.g., a building) can be controlled. The control of solar energy can control the heat load imposed on the interior of an enclosure (e.g., a facility such as a building). The control can be manual and / or automatic. The control can be used for one or more required (e.g., environmental) conditions, for example, to maintain the comfort of occupants. The control can include reducing the energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by one system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by a single system (abbreviated herein as "HVAC"). In some cases, a colorable window can respond (e.g., be communicatively coupled) to one or more environmental sensors and / or user controls. A colorable window can comprise an electrochromic window (e.g., be an electrochromic window). The window can be located within the range from the inside to the outside of an enclosure structure (e.g., a facility such as a building), although this need not be the case. A colorable window can operate using a liquid crystal device, a suspended particle device, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device (such as a microshutter), or any currently known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through the window.Windows (e.g., including a MEMS device for coloring) 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 application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Optionally, one or more colorable windows can be located inside an enclosure (e.g., a building), for example, between a conference room and an entrance hall. Optionally, one or more colorable windows can be used in automobiles, trains, airplanes, and other vehicles, for example, instead of passive and / or non-colorable windows.

[0104] In some embodiments, the colorable window comprises an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an "EC device" (abbreviated as ECD herein), or "EC" for short). The EC device can include at least one coating that includes 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, for example, upon application of a potential to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be caused by, for example, reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. Reversible can be over the useful life of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (e.g., significant) degradation in the reversibility of window coloring over one or more coloring cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition become irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., thus, the induced (changed) colored state of the window cannot return 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 charges" within the material (e.g., the ECD).

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

[0106] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more sensors. The sensors can facilitate controlling the environment of the enclosure such that the environment can be more comfortable, enjoyable, beautiful, healthy, productive (e.g., with respect to the performance of the occupant), livable (e.g., workable), or any combination thereof for the occupant of the enclosure. The sensor(s) can be configured as a low-resolution sensor or a high-resolution sensor. The sensor(s) can provide an on / off indication of the occurrence and / or presence of a particular environmental event (e.g., one pixel sensor). In some embodiments, the accuracy and / or resolution of the sensor(s) can be improved through artificial intelligence analysis of its measurements. Examples of artificial intelligence techniques that can be used include reactive, finite memory, theory of mind, and / or self-awareness techniques known to those skilled in the art. The sensor(s) can be configured to process, measure, analyze, detect, and / or react to one or more of data, temperature, humidity, sound, force, pressure, electromagnetic waves, position, distance, movement, flow, acceleration, velocity, vibration, dust, light, glare, color, gas, and / or other aspects (e.g., characteristics) of the environment (e.g., the enclosure). The gas can include volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The gas can include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, water vapor (e.g., humidity), oxygen, radon, and / or hydrogen sulfide. The one or more sensors can be calibrated in a factory setting. The sensor(s) can be optimized to perform accurate measurements of one or more environmental characteristics present in the factory setting. In some cases, a sensor calibrated in the factory may be conservatively optimized for operation in the target environment. For example, the factory setting can include an environment different from the target environment. The target environment can be the environment in which the sensor is deployed. The target environment can be the environment in which the sensor is expected and / or intended to operate. The target environment can be different from the factory environment. The factory environment corresponds to the location where the sensor is assembled and / or constructed. The target environment can include a factory where the sensor was not assembled and / or constructed. In some cases, the factory setting can be different from the target environment to the extent that sensor readings obtained in the target environment are incorrect (e.g., to a measurable extent).In this context, "incorrect" may refer to sensor readings that deviate from a particular accuracy (e.g., as specified by the sensor manufacturer). In some situations, sensors calibrated in the factory may provide readings that do not meet the accuracy specifications (e.g., by the manufacturer) when operating in the target environment.

[0107] In some embodiments, the sensor(s) is / are operably coupled to at least one controller and / or processor. Sensor readings can be obtained by one or more processors and / or controllers. In some embodiments, the controller can comprise a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). The controller can receive an input (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller can comprise circuitry, electrical wiring, optical wiring, sockets, and / or outlets. The controller can deliver an output. The controller can comprise a plurality of (e.g., sub-)controllers. The controller can be part of a control system. The control system can comprise a master controller, a network controller (e.g., a floor controller), or a local controller. The local controller can control one or more targets (e.g., devices). For example, the local controller can be a window controller (e.g., controlling an optically switchable window), an enclosure controller, or a target (e.g., component) controller. For example, the controller can be part of a hierarchical control system (e.g., comprising a main controller that directs one or more controllers, e.g., a network controller, a local controller (e.g., a window controller), an enclosure controller, and / or a target (e.g., component) controller). The physical location of the controller type within the hierarchical control system can vary. For example, at a first time, a first processor can assume the role of the main controller, a second processor can assume the role of the network controller, and a third processor can assume the role of the local controller. At a second time, the second processor can assume the role of the main controller, the first processor can assume the role of the network controller, and the third processor can remain in the role of the local controller. At a third time, the third processor can assume the role of the main controller, the second processor can assume the role of the network controller, and the first processor can assume the role of the local controller.The controller can control one or more devices (e.g., directly coupled to the device). The controller can be positioned proximal to one or more of the devices it controls. For example, the controller can control optically switchable devices (e.g., IGU), antennas, sensors, and / or output devices (e.g., light sources, sound sources, odor sources, gas sources, HVAC outlets, or heaters). In one embodiment, the 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. The network controller can comprise a floor controller. For example, a network (e.g., including a floor) controller can control a plurality of local (e.g., including windows) controllers. The plurality of local controllers can be disposed in a part of the facility (e.g., a part of the building). The part of the facility can be a floor of the facility. For example, the network controller can be assigned to a floor. In some embodiments, the floor can comprise a plurality of network controllers, e.g., depending on the floor size and / or the number of local controllers coupled to the network controller. For example, the network controller can be assigned to a part of the floor. For example, the network controller can be assigned to a part of the local controllers disposed within the facility. For example, the network controller can be assigned to a part of a floor of the facility. The master controller can be coupled to one or more network controllers. The network controller can be disposed within the facility. The master controller can be disposed within or outside the facility. The master controller can be disposed within the cloud. The controller can be part of or operably coupled to a building management system (abbreviated herein as "BMS"). The controller can receive one or more inputs. The controller can generate one or more outputs. The controller can be a single-input single-output controller (SISO) or a multi-input multi-output controller (MIMO).The controller can interpret the received input signal. The controller can obtain data from one or more targets (e.g., components such as sensors). The obtaining can include receiving or extracting. The data can include measurements, estimations, determinations, generations, or any combination thereof. The controller can include feedback control. The controller can include feedforward control. The control can include on-off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. The control can include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller can include closed-loop control. The controller can include open-loop control. The controller can include a user interface. The user interface can include (or be operably coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. The output can include a display (e.g., a screen), speaker, or printer. The controller can perform real-time calculations (e.g., using communication data such as sensor data and / or analysis of a cabling network). The network analysis can be related to communication speed, (e.g., electrical) power consumption, and / or communication density on the network (e.g., within a given time and / or given time frame). The controller (e.g., a control system) can utilize historical data and / or third-party data for its control. The historical data can be from the facility, a similar facility, or a different facility.

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

[0109] The controller may monitor and / or instruct (e.g., physical) changes in the operating conditions of the apparatuses, software, and / or methods described in this specification. Control may include regulating, operating, limiting, instructing, monitoring, adjusting, modulating, varying, altering, suppressing, checking, inducing, or managing. Being “controlled” (e.g., by a controller) may include being attenuated, modulated, changed, managed, suppressed, trained, adjusted, constrained, monitored, operated, and / or induced. Control may include controlling control variables (e.g., temperature, power, voltage, and / or profile). Control can include real-time control or offline control. The calculations utilized by the controller can be performed in real time and / or offline. The controller can be a manual controller or a non-manual controller. The controller can be an automatic controller. The controller may operate upon request. The controller can be a programmable controller. The controller can be programmed. The controller may include a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). The controller may receive inputs (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller may deliver outputs. The controller may include a plurality of (e.g., sub-)controllers. The controller can be part of a control system. The control system may include a master controller, a network controller, 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 can be a single-input single-output controller (SISO) or a multi-input multi-output controller (MIMO). The controller may interpret received input signals. The controller may obtain data from one or more sensors. Obtaining can include receiving or extracting. The data can include measurements, estimates, determinations, generations, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feedforward control.Control may include on-off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. Control may include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller may include closed-loop control. The controller may include open-loop control. The controller may include a user interface. The user interface may include (or be operably coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. The output may include a display (e.g., a screen), speaker, or printer.

[0110] The methods, systems, and / or apparatuses described herein can comprise a control system. The control system can communicate with any of the apparatuses (e.g., sensors) described herein. The sensors can be of the same type or different types, for example, as described herein. For example, the control system can communicate with a first sensor and / or a second sensor. The control system can control one or more sensors. The control system can control one or more targets (e.g., components) of a building management system (e.g., lighting, security, and / or HVAC systems). The controller can adjust at least one (e.g., environmental) characteristic of the enclosure. The control system can adjust the enclosure environment using any target (e.g., component) of the building management system. For example, the control system can adjust the energy supplied by a heating element and / or a cooling element. For example, the control system can adjust the speed of air flowing into and / or out of the enclosure through a vent. The control system can comprise a processor. The processor can be a processing unit. The controller can comprise a processing unit. The processing unit can be central. The processing unit can comprise a central processing unit (abbreviated herein as "CPU"). The processing unit can be a graphics processing unit (abbreviated herein as "GPU"). The controller(s) or control mechanism (e.g., comprising a computer system) can be programmed to implement one or more of the methods of the present disclosure. The processor can be programmed to implement the methods of the present disclosure. The controller can control at least one target (e.g., component) of the forming systems and / or apparatuses disclosed herein.

[0111] In some embodiments, a plurality of targets (e.g., devices) may be operably (e.g., communicably) coupled to a control system. The control system can include a hierarchy of controllers. The targets can include emitters, sensors, or windows (e.g., IGU). The emitter can include a light, buzzer, heater, HVAC actuator, or alarm. The target can be any target disclosed herein. At least two of the plurality of 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 plurality of targets can be of different types. For example, a sensor and an emitter can be coupled to the control system. Sometimes, the plurality of targets can include at least 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10000, 50000, 100000, or 500000 targets. The plurality of targets can be any number between the aforementioned numbers (e.g., 20 targets to 500000 targets, 20 targets to 50 targets, 50 targets to 500 targets, 500 targets to 2500 targets, 1000 targets to 5000 targets, 5000 targets to 10000 targets, 10000 targets to 100000 targets, or 100000 targets to 500000 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, the targets can be present within a multi-story building. At least a portion of the floors of the multi-story building can have targets controlled by the control system (e.g., at least a portion of the floors of the multi-story building can be controlled by the control system). For example, the multi-story building can 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 floor can be at least about 150 square meters (m²). 2 )、250m² 2 、500m² 2 、1000m² 2 、1500m² 2 、or 2000m² 2 and can have an area of any of the aforementioned floor area values (e.g., between about 150 m² 2 and about 2000 m² 2 , between about 150 m² 2 and about 500 m² 2 , between about 250 m² 2 and about 1000 m² 2 , or between about 1000 m² 2 and about 2000 m² 2 ). The total length of the cabling in the cabling network system can be at least about 500 feet ('), 1000', 10000', or 100000', depending on the size of the facility, the number and type of targets to which the cabling system is connected, and the coverage of the facility by the cabling system.

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

[0113] In certain embodiments, the infrastructure described herein provides communication networks and power resources around the perimeter of an enclosure (e.g., a building), and optionally has separate communication and power distribution systems on each or all of the multiple floors of a facility (e.g., a building). The infrastructure can be installed during the construction of the enclosure (e.g., a building) or as part of a renovation. The infrastructure can provide high-speed communication (e.g., with data speeds of gigabits or more) and can provide power taps at designated locations throughout the building, such as around the outer walls of a floor, in a room, along the ceiling, along the floor, or in other areas of a facility such as a building.

[0114] In certain embodiments, a direct connection to the infrastructure of a facility (e.g., a building) is provided via a power and / or communication dock within a device such as the network adapter described herein. Wires connecting to the network adapter can be routed in various locations, such as within the walls of the enclosure (e.g., a building). In certain embodiments, one or more wires are disposed horizontally above and / or below a window. In certain embodiments, one or more wires are disposed under the floor, e.g., within the floorboards.

[0115] In various embodiments, the links within the vertical data plane are links between network devices (e.g., devices communicatively coupled to the 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 certain embodiments, one or more floors (e.g., each) within a facility (e.g., a building) have network devices (such as network switches and / or network routers). A network device may be connected to two or more links within the vertical data plane. A network device may be provided within a control panel. In certain embodiments, the link medium (within the vertical plane) comprises and / or consists of one or more optical fibers. In certain embodiments, current-carrying wire(s) are used instead of and / or together with optical fibers, e.g., as a link medium (e.g., within the vertical data plane). The optical fiber(s) may be disposed in the horizontal and / or vertical data plane. Current-carrying wire(s) such as copper wire(s) may be provided as twisted pair and / or coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the (e.g., vertical) data plane includes a bundle of fibers connecting between network devices (e.g., disposed on different floors of a facility (e.g., a building)). As an example, the links 213, 215, or 217 of the (e.g., vertical) data plane shown in FIG. 2 may each include a bundle of fibers. In certain embodiments, at least one (e.g., each) bundle of fibers may include at least 12, 24, 48, 96, or 114 optical fibers.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the optical fiber(s) can be utilized for communication within the enclosure. At least a portion of the optical fiber(s) may not be utilized (e.g., the unutilized fiber(s) may be referred to herein as "dark fiber(s)"). In some examples, during or after installation, some fibers are used for information technology (IT) and / or other service infrastructure of the enclosure (e.g., a building), and some other fibers are "dark". Dark fibers may not be utilized, at least temporarily, 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. Services may include controlling the operation of one or more devices. Devices may include sensors, switchable windows, heaters, coolers (e.g., air conditioners), ventilators, lighting, security, radiators, antennas, or actuators. In some embodiments, at least about 1 / 10, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, or 1 / 2 (half) of the installed fibers are 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 fibers are not dark initially. Dark fibers can be used to lease as services to tenants and / or other enclosure occupants. Examples of leased services can include Wi-Fi, cellular communication, streaming internet, and any other IT-related services utilized by the occupants and / or tenants.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the data plane has a topology (e.g., wires and / or devices operably coupled to the wires are configured in a topology). The topology can be a linear topology or a star topology. For example, the (e.g., horizontal) data plane can have a linear network topology. In a linear topology, the network topology can include a control panel at one end of a data transmission medium and a plurality of nodes connected along the length of the data transmission medium (downstream of 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 a part or the whole of the outer periphery of the floor of the facility. In some examples, at one or more locations along the network cable, there are electrical connections (singular or plural) for connecting to one or more nodes (such as end nodes), optionally via network adapters. The end node can comprise any of the devices disclosed herein (e.g., a sensor, a radiator, a colorable window, an HVAC system, or lighting). In some examples, the electrical connection is a cap which is a passive device. The cap can provide an electrical connection between the network cable and an associated node (e.g., any one of the devices receiving service from the horizontal data plane). In some embodiments, the electrical connections are provided at regular intervals (e.g., every about 5 feet) in, e.g., vertical risers. The nodes can be infrastructure nodes. The infrastructure nodes can include a floor controller, an Ethernet switch, and / or a head end.

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

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

[0120] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the 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 that may include an optical fiber and / or an electric wire. The control panel 207 is connected to an antenna 289 outside the building. The antenna 289 may be a receiving antenna (e.g., a donor antenna).

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

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

[0123] In the example shown in FIG. 2, control panel 207 is connected to network adapters 251a - 251e by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 259. The connection can be by a 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 a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 261. Control panel 211 is connected to client nodes on horizontal data plane 223 by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263. In the example shown in FIG. 2, control panel 207 includes two head ends 265a and 265b, a switch 267 (abbreviated as "SW" in this specification), and a distributed antenna system (abbreviated as "DAS" in this specification) 269. The switch is operably coupled (e.g., connected to two edge distribution frame devices (abbreviated as "EDF" in this specification)). Head end 265a is connected to a plurality of links (e.g., coaxial cables) such as link 259. Although not shown, head end 265b is connected to at least one link (e.g., coaxial cable). Switch 267 is connected to links 204, 213, and 217 (e.g., communication and / or power). The connection can be via an optical cable(s) and / or an 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 can be internal antennas of a building (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 275a and 275b are connected to control panel 207 via power and / or communication link (e.g., cable) 271.The head ends 265a and 265b are configured to transmit and / or receive data encoded according to one or more protocols including (i) a next-generation home networking protocol (abbreviated herein as the "G.hn" protocol), (ii) a communication technology that transmits digital information over wires traditionally used for power delivery (e.g., for power delivery only), or (iii) a hardware device (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi) designed for data communication and transfer over a building's electrical wiring. The data transfer protocol may facilitate a data transfer rate 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 wires, and / or (e.g., plastic) optical fiber. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using a chip (e.g., including semiconductor devices). In the example shown in FIG. 2, the horizontal data plane 221 includes a network adapter 277 connected to the control panel 209 by a link (e.g., coaxial cable) 279. The 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 the control panel 209. The horizontal data plane 223 includes, in addition to the link (e.g., coaxial cable) 263, a second link (e.g., coaxial cable) 283 for connecting the control panel 211 to one or more network adapters or other client nodes (not shown). The horizontal data plane 223 includes physical (e.g., power and / or communication) lines 285 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to the control panel 211. The control panel 211 is also connected to an (e.g., cellular) antenna 287.

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

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

[0126] In some embodiments, the active distribution junction includes a circuit (e.g., an electrical circuit). The circuit within the active distribution junction can include a signal repeater, a range extender, a signal transponder, an amplifier, a preamplifier, a power management circuit, and / or a microprocessor. The power management circuit can control (e.g., monitor and / or manage) the (e.g., DC) power flow through the distribution junction. The active distribution junction can facilitate the formation of a longer network bus (e.g., a signal repeater and / or an amplifier can extend the substantial length of the network bus). The active distribution junction can provide the option to dynamically change (e.g., extend) the size of the network (e.g., by adding a signal repeater and / or an amplifier). Changing the network size can include changing the size of the network bus. The option for dynamic change of the network size can provide for dynamic extension and / or reduction of the network. The option for dynamic change of the network size can facilitate the formation of a flexible network, for example, with respect to its size and / or the connectivity of targets to the distribution junction. The active distribution junction can facilitate power management in the network infrastructure. This can be facilitated, for example, by (i) monitoring the voltage and / or current along the network (e.g., along the 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. The passive distribution junction can include one or more capacitors, inductors, and / or transformers. The passive distribution junction can 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). The passive distribution junction can include at least one transformer. The at least one transformer can couple one or more time-varying signals between two or more circuits (e.g., between three circuits). The passive distribution junction can 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, by implementing a distribution junction that utilizes a transformer, impedance matching can be provided. Impedance matching can help reduce (e.g., eliminate) unwanted signal reflections from the distribution junction within the network infrastructure. The transformer can include a plurality of windings. At least two (e.g., all) of the plurality of windings can be formed from the same number of turns wound around a common core (e.g., to provide a balanced transformer). At least two (e.g., all) of the plurality of windings can be formed from a different number of turns wound around a common core (e.g., to provide an unbalanced transformer). The diameter of at least two (e.g., all) of the windings can be the same. The diameter of at least two (e.g., all) of the windings can be different. The transformer (within the distribution junction) can be configured to split a time-varying signal in a balanced or unbalanced manner. A balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and evenly split the signal to a plurality of circuits. By evenly splitting the signal to the plurality of circuits, the signals of each of the plurality of circuits can be approximately (e.g., measurably) equal. For example, a balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and split the signal evenly (e.g., approximately half of the original power) to a second circuit and a third circuit. An unbalanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal in a first circuit and unevenly split the signal to a plurality of circuits. By unevenly splitting the signal to the plurality of circuits, at least two of the signals of the plurality of circuits can be different. For example, an unbalanced transformer can split the signal from the first circuit to the second circuit at a first ratio (e.g., 85%) of the original power (e.g., electrical power) and to the third circuit at a second ratio (e.g., 15%) of the original power. The first ratio and the second ratio are not equal and together total approximately 100% (e.g., a decrease less than 100%). When the first circuit signal (100%) is unevenly split between the second circuit and the third circuit, the second circuit can receive up to approximately 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, or 40% of the signal from the first circuit, and the third circuit can receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit.When the first circuit signal (100%) is unevenly divided between the second circuit and the third circuit, the second circuit may receive any signal percentage value between the aforementioned percentage values from the first circuit (e.g., from about 1% to about 40%, from about 1% to about 20%, or from about 20% to about 40%), and the third circuit may receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit. The second circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving lower signal strength) may be a branch circuit, and the third circuit is a downstream circuit. As a result, for example, most of the signal may persist along the network bus. In other embodiments, the first circuit (e.g., the circuit receiving higher signal strength) is a branch circuit. As a result, for example, most of the signal moves to the branch circuit.

[0129] In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes at least one filter. The distribution junction may include one or more low-pass filters, high-pass filters, and / or band-pass filters. The filter may help to minimize (block) a particular frequency from the branch circuit (e.g., if such frequency is not utilized by the branch circuit), and / or a particular frequency from the downstream circuit (e.g., if the downstream circuit does not utilize such frequency). By minimizing (blocking) such frequency (e.g., the signal portion), the filter can reduce noise in the network as the signal propagates through the network (e.g., through the bus).

[0130] In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes a frequency shift function. For example, the control panel and the distribution junction can reduce interference by frequency shifting one or more of the time-varying signals as the signal moves through the network. The signal can be shifted to a region of the spectrum available in an unused medium (e.g., coaxial cable). The distribution junction can include a passive or active target (e.g., component) that removes this frequency shift when carrying the signal from the network bus to the branch circuit and inserts this frequency shift when carrying the signal from the branch circuit to the network bus. The control panel can include a G.hn head end (or other target (e.g., component)) that adds and removes the frequency shift to the time-varying signal during transmission and reception by the control panel.

[0131] In some embodiments, one or more antennas are coupled to a network. The antennas can be outside and / or inside an enclosure (e.g., a building). The antennas can be passive or active. At least two of the antennas can be of the same type. At least two of the antennas can be of different types. An external antenna may be referred to herein as a “donor antenna”. The external antenna can be a directional antenna (e.g., a Yagi antenna). The antenna can be directly coupled to a control panel. The antenna can be indirectly coupled to a control panel. The indirect coupling of the antenna to the control panel can include its coupling via one or more distribution joints. A signal from the antenna can travel a distance through a cable, for example, resulting in a reduction in signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., a reduction in signal strength compared to noise. A signal from the antenna can travel through one or more distribution joints, for example, resulting in a reduction in signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., a reduction in signal strength compared to noise. The network can include a preamplifier and / or an amplifier (e.g., to increase the signal-to-noise ratio, e.g., to increase the signal strength compared to noise). The amplifier and / or preamplifier can be (i) arranged adjacent to the antenna, (ii) part of the antenna circuit, (iii) part of the controller (e.g., within the control panel), (iv) operably coupled to the controller, (v) adjacent to the distribution joint, and / or (vi) operably coupled to the distribution joint. The antenna can be active. The antenna can include an amplifier and / or a preamplifier. In the example shown in FIG. 2, antenna 273 is connected to control panel 207 via head 265a. However, the antenna can be communicably coupled to a cable (e.g., coaxial and / or trunk 265a). The antenna can be connected to the trunk before any distribution joint (e.g., 290) and / or other target (e.g., a device such as 253). Without being bound by theory, connecting the antenna to the trunk before any distribution joint and / or device can reduce signal loss (compared to noise).The amplifier and / or preamplifier may be included, for example, in the control panel of the floor controller. In some embodiments, the network bus has 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 of 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, the first device on the network bus (e.g., the branch circuit closest to the head end) may be the antenna. The antenna can operate at at least about 3.56 GHz, the second device can be another antenna operating at at least about 700 MHz, and other (e.g., downstream) devices coupled to the network bus can utilize signals at a frequency of up to about 400 MHz. The highest frequency (e.g., 3.56 GHz) antenna may be connected to the network bus, for example, at a first distribution junction having a first low-pass filter disposed in a 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). The lower frequency (e.g., 700 MHz) antenna may be connected to the network bus, for example, at a second distribution 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 of both antennas (e.g., 3.56 GHz and 700 MHz) do not need to pass through more distribution junctions than a limited number (e.g., one, two, etc.). The number of distribution junctions through which the high-frequency signal passes can be a single-digit integer (e.g., at most 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 distribution junctions). As a result, the antenna may receive a higher signal strength (e.g., a higher signal-to-noise ratio). Further, downstream reflections and / or high-frequency noise from other sources can be reduced (e.g., eliminated).

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

[0133] FIG. 3 shows a detailed electronic circuit diagram 310 of the distribution junction 301. The detailed electronic circuit diagram 310 includes a transformer that divides the power of a time-varying signal among an upstream circuit, a downstream circuit, and a branch circuit. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the distribution junction 310 includes first and second inductors that couple (e.g., DC) power among the upstream circuit, the downstream circuit, and the branch circuit. The branch circuit of the distribution junction 310 is coupled to a highest-frequency antenna, and the 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) can utilize frequencies lower than those attenuated by the low-pass filter. The transformer within the distribution junction 310 includes a first winding 361, a second winding 362, and a third winding 363. Windings 361, 362, and 363 are wound around a common core. FIG. 3 shows an example of a distribution junction 380 that connects three coaxial cables.

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

[0135] A network bus and a branch cable can distribute a plurality of time-varying signals and / or (e.g., DC) power (e.g., simultaneously).

[0136] The network bus and the branch cable can transmit power at any desired nominal voltage (e.g., DC). As an example, the network bus and the branch cable can transmit power at 12V, 23V, or 48 volts (V) (e.g., DC). The network bus and the branch cable can conform to any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class such as class 0, I, II, or Ill. As an example, the network bus and the branch cable can conform to class II of the IEC and can thus carry up to 100 VA, i.e., 100 watts. The network bus and the branch cable can have a wire thickness (e.g., 12, 14, 16, or 18 gauge) sufficient to carry the required current. The network bus and the branch cable can include a shield (e.g., a foil shield, a braided shield, or a quad shield) to reduce, for example, crosstalk and / or interference. The network bus and the branch cable can include (e.g., can be formed from) LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG-174, RG-210, RG-213, 8233, or 8267 coaxial cables, or another type of cable. The network bus and / or the branch cable can distribute any required number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) of distinguishable time-varying signal frequency sets. The time-varying signal frequency sets can be distributed to non-overlapping frequency windows. As an example, the network bus and / or the branch cable can distribute a first time-varying signal frequency set to one or more first frequency windows and a second time-varying signal frequency set to one or more second frequency windows. The frequency windows (both of the first set and the second set) can be separated within the frequency domain (e.g., there can be a guard band between the frequency windows). In some embodiments, some of the frequency windows (of the first and / or second set) are not separated by a guard band and / or partially overlap within the frequency domain (e.g., the end portion of one frequency window contacts the start portion of another frequency window, e.g., 526 and 529 of FIG. 5).Generally, by separating frequency windows with adjacent frequencies by guard bands, noise and / or interference can be reduced, and the cost and complexity of network components (e.g., cables, filters, distribution joints, etc.) can also be reduced.

[0137] The first set of time-varying signals distributed by a cabling network may include network data signals (e.g., control-related signals). The first set of time-varying signals may be referred to as digital communication or digital data. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals configured to be transmitted by a communication technology that transmits digital information over a power line used for power delivery (e.g., delivery only). The first set of time-varying signals may include signals configured to be transmitted by a hardware device (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi) designed for data communication and transfer via the electrical wiring of a building. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals configured to be transmitted by a data transfer protocol that facilitates a data transfer speed of at least 1 megahertz (MHz), 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 50 MHz, 100 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 set of time-varying signals may include power line communication signals such as G.hn, HomePlug®, or HD-PLC compatible signals. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals compatible with the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) protocol. The first set of time-varying signals 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., such as those used in the G.hn protocol). As an 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 signal may be received by an antenna or may include a signal for transmission via an antenna. The second frequency window may be in the range of about 600 MHz to about 1 GHz, about 1.4 GHz to about 6 GHz, about 1.7 GHz to about 6 GHz. The radio frequency signal may include cellular network signals such as fourth generation (4G) and / or fifth generation (5G) cellular network signals. In some embodiments, the 4G and 5G cellular network signals include signals below about 6 GHz. The ranges of the first and second sets of time-varying signals may overlap. The ranges of the first and second sets of time-varying signals may be separated. The separation may be performed by a signal domain not occupied by the first time-varying signal or the second time-varying signal.

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

[0140] Figure 5 shows various frequency ranges 500, 510, and 520 of distinguishable signal range segments along the frequency range that can be transmitted by network cable 400. Frequency range 500 includes DC signal 501, a first set of time-varying signal frequencies 502 (e.g., control-related communication), and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies 504 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related). The first and second sets of time-varying signal frequencies 502 and 503 are separated by a frequency guard band 503 (e.g., that does not include time-varying signals). Frequency range 510 includes DC signal 511, a first set of time-varying signal frequencies 512 (e.g., control-related communication), a second set of time-varying signal frequencies 514 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related), a third set of time-varying signal frequencies 516 (e.g., control-related communication), and a fourth set of time-varying signal frequencies 518 (e.g., media (e.g., cellular) communication-related). Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 separate each pair of time-varying signals. Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 may not include time-varying signals. At least two of the sets of time-varying signal frequencies can transmit the same type of signal (e.g., signal frequency sets 512 and 516 can be reserved for transmission of control-related communication). At least two of the sets of time-varying signal frequencies can transmit different types of signals (e.g., signal frequency set 512 can be reserved for transmission of control-related communication, and frequency set 514 can be reserved for transmission of media-related communication). As an example, the set of time-varying signal frequencies 512 can be reserved for data signals (e.g., compliant with the G.hn protocol) from about 2 to about 200 MHz. As a further example, the set of time-varying signal frequencies 516 can be reserved for data signals from about 1.2 to about 1.5 GHz compliant with the MoCA (Multimedia over Coax Alliance) protocol. As another example, the sets of time-varying signal frequencies 514 and 516 can be reserved for analog radio frequency signals having a signal frequency set 514, such as from about 0.6 to about 1.0 GHz, and the signal frequency set 518 can be reserved for signal frequencies from about 1.7 to about 6.0 Ghz.

[0141] The signal frequency range 520 of identifiable signal frequencies includes a DC signal 521, a first time-varying signal frequency set 522, a second time-varying signal frequency set 524, a third time-varying signal frequency set 526, and a fourth time-varying signal frequency set 529. The guard band 523 represents a relatively wide spectral guard band (e.g., signal-free) between signals 522 and 524. The guard band 525 represents a relatively narrow spectral guard band (e.g., signal-free) between signals 524 and 526. The distinct guard band 527 separates signal sets 526 and 529. The guard band 527 can have a width of a single frequency (less than 10 signal frequencies) or can have a zero frequency range (thus, signal sets 526 and 529 can be in contact with each other). The time-varying signal 529 can be separated from the time-varying signal frequency set 530 by a notch guard band 528 (e.g., signal-free). The signals within a signal frequency set can have the same amplitude across the signal frequency set (e.g., 529). The signals within a signal frequency set can have varying amplitudes (including, for example, an increase in amplitude, a stable amplitude, and a decrease in amplitude such as at 502). The slopes of the increase and decrease can have the same absolute value. The slopes of the increase and decrease can have different absolute values. A signal frequency set can be a frequency window in which a set of signal frequencies is permitted to be transmitted along a transmission line (e.g., a coaxial cable). The frequencies for transmission (e.g., frequencies for media-related communication) can conform to a communication standard permitted by jurisdiction. The conservation and / or facilitation of the division into a frequency domain (e.g., a frequency window, or a signal frequency set) can include using one or more signal filters. For example, to facilitate a wide guard band (e.g., 503), a less accurate (e.g., less expensive) filter than a filter that facilitates distinct (e.g., 527 and 528), and / or short (e.g., 525) band gaps, or distinct frequency domain division may be required.

[0142] In certain 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 in a cabling network to respective branch cables (also referred to as drop lines) and / or network buses (also referred to as trunks). As described herein, the cabling network can 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 respective branch lines). The signals can 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 can alternatively or additionally be configured to provide power (e.g., DC power) to downstream targets (e.g., devices). The power can be at a voltage of at least about 24 volts (V), 48 V, or 96 V. The power can be at a voltage of up to about 24 V, 48 V, or 96 V. An end node coupled to the network adapter can receive power from the connected network adapter and / or transmit and receive data via the connected network adapter. For example, a digital architecture element (e.g., including a colorable window) can (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 can include one or more sensors. The sensor(s) can be coupled to the network infrastructure, for example, via the connected network adapter. Nodes that can use power and / or data network communication (including high-speed data communication) can be coupled to the network infrastructure, for example, via the network adapter. At least some of the cabling system and its components can support at least about 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 a network adapter or may 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 power (e.g., DC). 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 may comprise a DC-AC, AC-DC, AC-AC, or DC-DC converter. The converter may be operably coupled to the network adapter or may be 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 buck (e.g., step-down) converter and / or a boost (e.g., step-up) converter. The output of the DC-DC converter within the network adapter may be used internally (e.g., to supply power to internal network components such as processors, interfaces, and controllers) and / or externally (e.g., to provide power to an end node) by the network adapter. The network adapter may provide power to one or more end nodes, for example, via an adapter or a connector. As an example, the network adapter may provide DC power to a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, coupler, and / or injector. The Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, coupler, and / or injector may provide DC power to an end node, for example, via twisted pair Ethernet cabling. The DC processing network components may include one or more filters and / or power conditioning devices. As an example, the DC processing network components may include one or more inductors configured to block time-varying signals between an end node, the network bus, and / or the DC-DC converter.

[0145] A network adapter may include network components for processing data communication. By way of 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 thereby) one or more (e.g., DC) signals received from the network bus and / or internally generated by one or more (e.g., DC-DC) converters. The interface for coupling to the network bus can encode and decode data transmitted on the network bus. When the network bus utilizes a data protocol (e.g., G.Hn protocol, or MoCA protocol), the interface for coupling to the network bus can be a data interface (also referred to as a data controller). For example, when the network bus utilizes (as an example) the G.Hn protocol, the interface for coupling to the network bus can be a G.Hn interface (also referred to as a G.Hn controller). Examples of the interface for coupling to one or more end nodes can include (i) a data and / or power interface, and (ii) an architecture element interface. The general-purpose data and / or power interface can be, by way of example, an Ethernet interface or a Power over Ethernet network interface. The Ethernet interface and the Power over Ethernet network interface can be referred to as an Ethernet controller and a Power over Ethernet controller, respectively. An example of the architecture element interface can include a window controller (which is a type of local controller). The window controller can adjust the coloring of a colorable window by providing one or more signals to a colorable window effect in response to, for example, a coloring command. The coloring command can be generated internally by the window controller (e.g., in response to logic programmed in the window controller) or received from a higher-level window controller within the controller hierarchy via the network bus.The window controller can receive signals from, for example, a colorable window and / or any connected sensor. The connected sensor can be associated with the sensed environmental conditions (e.g., meteorological conditions such as sunlight and / or overcast sky) and / or the coloring state of the colorable window. The window controller can use such signals internally (e.g., when generating a coloring command) or transmit such signals to other network components, for example via a network bus.

[0146] The network adapter can have a relatively small chassis or installation area. The basic length scale can be the width, length, height, diameter of a circle, or diameter of a bounding circle, and can be abbreviated herein as "FLS". The basic length scale of the network adapter can be at most about 1 cm, 2 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, or 50 cm. The FLS of the network adapter can be any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., about 1 cm to about 50 cm, about 1 cm to about 10 cm, or about 10 cm to about 50 cm). In some embodiments, none of the dimensions exceed about 12 inches or about 10 inches. As an example, the network adapter can have dimensions of about 1.5 inches × about 0.75 inches × about 6 inches. In certain embodiments, the network adapter fits within at least a portion of a window frame (e.g., square and / or seamless), wall, floor, and / or other building structure. The network adapter can be directly connected, for example, to one or more cables (e.g., wires) that provide power and data, and / or cellular communication from a headend or control panel. The network adapter can be connected to a window or any other target. The target can include Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as digital architecture elements. The control panel can comprise circuits disposed on one or more electronic substrates. The control panel can include connections to electrical and / or optical wiring. The control panel, device ensemble, edge distribution frame, and / or switch can each be housed within a housing. The housing can include a transparent portion or a non-transparent portion. The housing can include a cured material (e.g., elemental spirits, metal alloys, polymers, resins, glass, or allotropes of elemental carbon). The housing can include a composite material. The housing can have one or more perforations. The housing can have a window and / or a door. The housing can have a cover. The cover can be (e.g., reversibly) snap-fitted to the body of the housing.

[0147] In some embodiments, the network adapter includes a frequency shift function. As an example, the network adapter can transmit and / or receive signals via a (e.g., coaxial) cable in which the signal is frequency shifted. An interface, controller, or other element can (i) shift a signal exiting and transmitted from the network adapter and / or (ii) reverse the shift of a signal entering the network adapter via a network bus (e.g., a branch circuit). In this type of arrangement (e.g., using frequency shift components), signaling protocols with overlapping frequency windows can be utilized without interference. As an example, control-related signals and / or media-related signals (e.g., under the MoCA protocol and 4G and / or 5G signals) may overlap when not shifted, and may not overlap when shifted by network components such as a network adapter, a distribution junction, and / or a control panel (e.g., a head end) having a frequency shift function.

[0148] FIG. 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 an inner conductor. Power and data can be carried by the (e.g., coaxial) cable. Examples of connectors to the (e.g., coaxial) cable are described herein (see, e.g., the description of the 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) for delivering power and data to (i) connector 619 and (ii) local controller 621 is provided. Connector 619 provides power and data transmission functions. Connector 619 can be an Ethernet connector and has a Power over Ethernet function. Connector 619 can provide 100Base Ethernet and / or 1000Base Ethernet connections. 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 equipped with one or more electrochromic devices disposed on one or more lights of the IGU). Connector 619 can be a (e.g., coaxial) cable connector (e.g., an RG-specified connection or a BNC-specified connector).

[0150] (For example, DC) power from a (e.g., coaxial) cable is split at point 629. The power then passes through inductor choke 607 and reaches line (e.g., cable(s)) 609. Inductor choke 607 allows DC current to pass through while attenuating (e.g., blocking) time-varying communication signal components (e.g., control-related data, media-related data, and / or antenna signals). A portion of the DC current on line 609 is 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 the 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 circuit 617, local (e.g., window) 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 the DC / DC converter 613. The DC / DC converter 613 can be a restoration circuit (e.g., 48V). The DC / DC converter 613 is configured to change the DC voltage received from line (e.g., cable) 605 to a specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts) (e.g., increase or decrease as needed). Inductor 615 is coupled between the DC / DC converter 613 and the Power over Ethernet circuit. Inductor 615 levels the DC voltage provided by the DC / DC converter 613, attenuates (e.g., blocks) the time-varying signal, and prevents it from flowing towards the DC / DC converter 613. The network adapter 600 is configured such that the current on the leg containing the specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts) restores the circuit (DC / DC converter 613) and enables power to be utilized for transmission on the physical line (e.g., capable of carrying Ethernet-formatted data), and the inductor 615 is delivered to the Power over Ethernet circuit 617. The Power over Ethernet circuit 617 is electrically connected to the connector 619 in a manner that enables the delivery of current at the specified voltage (e.g., 48 volts) to one or more end devices connected to the connector 619.

[0152] Downstream of point 629 is an interface 623 that is bidirectionally coupled to line (e.g., coaxial cable) 605. The interface 623 is configured to encode and decode data according to a communication (e.g., G.hn or MoCA) protocol. The 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. The data (A) is provided via the controller 625 and / or 621 and / or (B) is generated internally (e.g., by the processor 627 and / or the local (e.g., window) controller 621) using a communication protocol signal (e.g., G.hn) for upstream transmission via line (e.g., coaxial cable) 605.

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

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

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

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

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

[0158] In some embodiments, there is at least one control panel on each of at least two different floors of a building. In some cases, there is at least one control panel on each floor of the building. In some cases, there are at least two control panels on at least one floor of the building. In certain embodiments, there is less than one control panel per floor of the building (e.g., on at least one floor of the building, there is no control panel). In certain embodiments, the control panel is located in an elevator lobby area, or another area (e.g., a lobby) having dedicated mechanical and / or electrical controls, and / or other infrastructure (e.g., an electrical room with circuit breakers). In certain embodiments, the control panel(s) on the floor(s) is / are connected to a main controller. The main controller may be disposed within the building. For example, the main controller may be disposed on the ground floor of the building, or in some dedicated area of the building (e.g., the first floor or the top floor). The main controller may be a primary control panel. The primary control panel may have more computing resources (e.g., processing power as well as memory and storage capabilities) than other control panels within the control system (e.g., any other control panel within the control system). In some embodiments, the primary control panel is networked redundantly (e.g., using two or more optical fibers) with the remainder of the control panels so that not all control panels are disconnected from the network by the failure of a single link. In some embodiments, the primary control panel has a wired connection and / or a wireless connection 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 within 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 a cable (e.g., coaxial). In certain embodiments, the control panel is configured to communicate with nodes on the horizontal data plane via a cable (e.g., twisted pair copper). 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 plane using certain physical and / or link layer protocols (such as the G.hn protocol and / or MoCA). The G.hn protocol may enable the transmission of data over any wire medium. The data rate within the G.hn protocol may range from about 100 megabytes per second to a maximum of about 1.7 Gb / second. The G.hn protocol may utilize signals from about 2 MHz to about 200 MHz. As implemented herein, the G.hn protocol may tolerate cables having defects (such as those resulting from tapping a bus line to a drop line, e.g., via a distribution junction).

[0160] In some embodiments, the control panel comprises at least one communication head end. For example, the control panel may include a MoCA and / or G.hn head end. The head end may be configured to determine the physical topology of the horizontal and / or vertical data plane based at least in part on the profile of the (e.g., electrical) power spectrum provided at the head end. 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 head end. The communication (e.g., G.hn) head end may be configured to identify the portion of the frequency spectrum assigned for communication so as not to inadvertently use, for example, the low power portion of the spectrum. In certain embodiments, communication (e.g., G.hn) data is transmitted in a point-to-multipoint fashion on the horizontal and / or vertical data plane. In some embodiments, the master (G.hn head end) transmits data to a plurality of slave nodes (end nodes on the horizontal and / or vertical data plane). In certain embodiments, the slave nodes do not communicate directly with each other. In certain embodiments, the slave nodes communicate directly with each other.

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

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

[0163] Figure 7 shows an example of a control panel 700. The control panel 700 includes a pair of switches 701 and 702. The switches 701 and 702 are coupled to an optical fiber 710. The optical fiber 710 can be connected to other control panels (on the same floor or other floors of the building) within the network. The optical fiber 710 can include fibers such as 204, 213, 215, and 217 of FIG. 2, by way of example. The switches 701 and 702 are also coupled to an Ethernet cable 712. The Ethernet cable 712 is coupled to devices (e.g., disposed 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 a plurality of 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 and, for example, G.hn) head ends 704 and 705. The communication head ends 704 and 705 are coupled to a plurality of network bus cables 714, which can be coaxial cables. The communication head ends 704 and 705 can provide (e.g., DC) power and a plurality of distinguishable time-varying signals (e.g., simultaneously) on the network bus cables 714. The network bus cables include (e.g., coaxial) power and / or communication cables (such as 259, 261, and 263 of FIG. 2, by way of example). The communication head ends 704 and 705 can include, by way of example, a preamplifier and / or an amplifier. The control panel 700 further includes a power distribution unit (PDU) 706. The PDU 706 can function as a network-connected power tap. Control components within the control panel 700, including the switches 701 and 702, the floor controller 703, and / or the communication head ends 704 and 705, can receive power via the PDU 706. The PDU 706 can provide remote network-based monitoring of the power usage by connected targets (e.g., devices).The PDU 706 can provide remote network-based control of (e.g., electrical) power distribution to individual powered targets (e.g., components). Thus, the PDU 706 can be used to remotely turn on and off the power of various targets (e.g., components) that receive power via 706, either individually or in any combination.

[0164] In certain embodiments, an enclosure (e.g., a building) can include an edge distribution frame that extends through the enclosure. The edge distribution frame can 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") can be coupled to a control panel (e.g., a control panel on each floor). The edge distribution frame can communicate electrically and / or data-wise with the control panel. As an example, one or more (e.g., combined) cables can be provided that include current conductors (singular or plural), communication cables (singular or plural), and / or one or more optical fibers. The current conductors can transmit power (e.g., from the control panel to the edge distribution frame). The current conductors, communication cables (singular or plural), and / or optical fibers (singular or plural) can transmit analog signals and / or digital data between the control panel and the edge distribution frame (singular or plural). The edge distribution frame (singular or plural) can provide wireless communication capabilities (e.g., including cellular communication and / or Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) in their adjacent areas. The edge distribution frame can form a network (e.g., over a part or all of a floor of a building) that can overlap with other cabling networks (e.g., coaxial cable-containing wiring networks that provide wired and / or wireless connectivity).

[0165] FIG. 8 shows an example of an enclosure 800 (e.g., a building floor) that includes a network of edge distribution frames (EDFs). As shown in the example of FIG. 8, the network of EDFs 802a - e can be distributed across an enclosure (e.g., a building floor). The EDFs 802a - e can include antennas, modems, and / or radios and can provide wireless connectivity (e.g., cellular and / or Wi-Fi® connectivity) to detect signals from most (e.g., all) of the building floor. The EDFs 802a - e can communicate electrically and / or data - communicatively with a control panel 800. The EDFs 802a - e are coupled to a control panel 850 via respective cables 802a - e. The links (e.g., cables) 804a - e can be coupled cables that include power conductors and data communication (e.g., a combination of coaxial cable or a cable with one or more optical fibers), thereby providing power connectivity and data connectivity to the EDFs 802a - e. As shown in FIG. 8, the enclosure can include 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., devices 808). The (e.g., coaxial) cables 806a - c are distributed across at least a portion (e.g., the whole) of the enclosure, and their reception zones spatially overlap with a portion of the service areas of the EDFs 802a - e. FIG. 8 shows a remote radio head (RRH) 810. The remote radio head can be, for example, a cellular antenna or radio attached outside the enclosure. Thereby, the remote radio head can provide connectivity to a network outside the enclosure. The RRH 810 can be connected to the control panel 850 via an ID 812 and a link (e.g., a cable) 814. The link (e.g., a cable) 814 can be a coupled cable that includes power conductors and / or a communication transmission cable such as a coaxial cable or an optical fiber. The ID 812 can include radios, amplifiers, pre - amplifiers, 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 disposed on separate floors, and the vertical data plane may redundantly connect the control panels together.

[0167] An example of a vertically oriented network 900 with redundancy is shown in FIG. 9. In the example of FIG. 9, control panels 901a - 901d are each located on different floors 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 redundant connections to infrastructure 904 (e.g., another network, whether inside or outside the enclosure in which network 900 is disposed).

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

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

[0170] In some embodiments, "colorable" means that, for example, when stimulated, it exhibits a (e.g., controllable and / or reversible) change in at least one optical property of the window. The stimulation can include optical, electrical, and / or magnetic stimulation. For example, the stimulation can include an applied voltage. One or more colorable windows can be used to control lighting conditions and / or glare conditions, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. One or more colorable windows can be used to control the temperature inside a building, for example, by adjusting the transmission of solar energy propagating through them. The control of solar energy can control the heat load imposed on the interior of a facility (e.g., a building). The control can be manual and / or automatic. The control can be used for one or more required (e.g., environmental) conditions, such as to maintain the comfort of occupants. The control can include reducing the energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and / or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by one system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning can be induced by a single system (abbreviated herein as "HVAC"). In some cases, the colorable window can respond to one or more environmental sensors and user controls. The colorable window can comprise an electrochromic window (e.g., can be an electrochromic window). The window can be located within the range from the interior to the exterior of a structure (e.g., a facility, e.g., a building), although this need not be the case. The colorable window can operate using a liquid crystal device, a suspended particle device, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device (such as a microshutter), or any currently known or later developed technology configured to control light transmission through the window.Windows comprising 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 hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Optionally, one or more tintable windows can be located inside a building, e.g., between a conference room and a foyer. Optionally, one or more tintable windows can be used in automobiles, trains, airplanes, and other vehicles, e.g., in place of passive and / or non-tinted windows.

[0171] In some embodiments, the colorable window comprises an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an "EC device" (abbreviated as ECD herein), or "EC" for short). The EC device may 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, for example, upon application of a potential to the EC device. The transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be caused, for example, by reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. For example, the transition of the electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be caused, for example, by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. Reversible can be over the service life of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (e.g., significant) degradation in the reversibility of window coloring over one or more coloring cycles. In some cases, some of the ions involved in the optical transition are irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., thus, the induced (changed) colored state of the window cannot return 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 charges" within the material (e.g., the 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. Cation intercalation can be with (for example, a metal) oxide. A change in the intercalation state of an ion (for example, a cation) with respect to an oxide can induce a visible change in the coloring (for example, color) of the oxide. For example, the oxide can transition from colorless to a colored state. For example, the intercalation of lithium ions into tungsten oxide (WO 3-y (0 < y ≦ ~0.3)) can change tungsten oxide from a transparent state to a colored (for example, blue) state. The EC device coating as described herein is disposed within the visible portion of the 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 layer can be used to improve certain optical properties, provide wetting, and / or provide scratch resistance. These passive layers and / or other passive layers can also function to seal the EC stack (for example, 1220). Various layers such as the transparent conductive layer can be treated with an antireflection layer and / or a protective layer (for example, an oxide and / or nitride layer).

[0174] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to (e.g., substantially) reversibly repeat 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., from about 5 years to about 100 years, from about 5 years to about 50 years, or from 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 such that the available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material to enter the colored state are primarily present at the counter electrode. When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, the ions are transported across the ion-conducting layer to the electrochromic material, which can cause the material to enter a second colored state (e.g., the colored state).

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

[0176] In certain embodiments, at least a portion (e.g., all) of the materials that make up the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (e.g., in a solid state), or inorganic and solid. Inorganic materials offer the advantage of reliable electrochromic stacks that can function for long periods, as various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat and UV light, such as in the windows of colored buildings. In some embodiments, solid-state materials can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and minimizing leakage problems, as liquid-state materials sometimes do. 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 matter. The ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids that may be present in small amounts. Small amounts may be up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid-state materials can be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes that use liquid components, such as certain processes using sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0177] In some embodiments, the IGU includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, the IGU can include two glass panes. 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 in a hermetically sealed configuration, for example, having an interior region isolated from the ambient environment. A "window assembly" can include the IGU. The "window assembly" can include a laminate (e.g., a stand-alone). The "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) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, switch, etc., and can include a frame that supports the IGU or the laminate. The window assembly can include a window controller, and / or components of the window controller (e.g., a dock).

[0178] In some embodiments, the first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU is a rectangular parallelepiped. In some implementations, other (e.g., geometric) shapes are possible. The shape of the first pane, the second pane, and / or the IGU may include circular, elliptical, 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 linear edge portions. The basic length scale of the pane can 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 pane can be any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 1 ft to about 100 ft, from about 1 ft to about 60 ft, or from about 50 ft to about 100 ft). The basic length scale (abbreviated as "FLS" herein) can include length, width, or the diameter of the bounding circle. For example, the length "L" of the first and / or second pane 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 pane can range from about 20 in. to about 10 ft. The thickness of the pane can be at least about 0.1 millimeter (mm), 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, or 50 mm. The thickness of the pane can be any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 0.1 mm to about 50 mm, from about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 50 mm). For example, the thickness "T" of the first and / or second pane can range from about 0.3 millimeter (mm) to about 10 mm. Based at least in part on the needs of a particular user, operator, manager, builder, designer, and / or owner, other FLSs (e.g., length, or width) or thicknesses can both be smaller or larger as may be possible (e.g., required). In an example where the thickness T of the substrate is less than about 3 mm (e.g., a thin substrate), the substrate can be laminated, for example, to an additional substrate. The additional substrate can be thicker. The additional substrate can protect the thin substrate.Furthermore, the IGU can include two panes, although in some embodiments, the IGU can include three or more panes. In some embodiments, one or more of the panes can have a laminated structure of two, three, or more layers (i.e., sub-panes).

[0179] In some embodiments, the first and second panes are separated from each other by at least one spacer, for example, to form an internal volume. The spacer(s) can comprise a frame structure. In some embodiments, the internal volume is filled with a gas (e.g., argon (Ar)). In some embodiments, the internal volume can be filled with another noble gas (e.g., krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe)), another (non-noble) gas, a non-reactive gas (e.g., nitrogen), or a gas mixture (e.g., air). By filling the internal volume with a gas, conductive heat transfer through the IGU can be reduced. The gas can have a low thermal conductivity. The gas can improve sound insulation. The gas can have a higher atomic weight than the gas in the ambient environment (e.g., air). In some other embodiments, the gas can be removed from the internal volume to leave it empty. The internal volume can include a pressure lower than the ambient pressure. The internal volume can have a gas composition and / or pressure different from the ambient environment (e.g., outside the IGU). One or more spacers can (at least partially) determine the height of the internal volume (e.g., 1308). That is, this is the range of the spacing between the first pane and the second pane. The FLS of the spacer 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 spacer 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 pane and the second pane is in the range of about 6 mm to about 30 mm. The width of the spacer (e.g., "D" in FIG. 2A) can be in the range of about 5 mm to about 25 mm (although other widths are possible and may be desirable).

[0180] At least one spacer can be a frame structure formed around a plurality of (e.g., all) sides of the IGU (e.g., the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the IGU). The spacer can be formed of a foam and / or a plastic material. The spacer can include a polymer. The spacer can include an elemental metal or a metal alloy. The spacer can have a tube structure or a channel structure. The spacer can have at least three sides. The spacer can have at least two sides (e.g., configurations for sealing each light). The spacer can have at least one side configured to support and / or separate the lights. The spacer can have at least one side configured to support a surface to which a sealing material is applied (e.g., between the spacer and the light). A first primary seal can adhere to the spacer. The first primary seal can seal the spacer of the first pane (e.g., 1304) and a second surface (e.g., S2 in FIG. 13). A second primary seal) can adhere to and / or seal the spacer and a first surface of the second pane (e.g., 1306) (e.g., S3 in FIG. 13). In some embodiments, the primary seal can be formed of an adhesive sealing material such as, for example, polyisobutylene (PIB). In some embodiments, the IGU includes a secondary seal that seals (e.g., seals) the boundary around the IGU. The secondary seal can be disposed outside the spacer. The spacer can be fitted at a distance within a range of, for example, about 4 mm to about 8 mm from the edge portions of the first pane and the second pane (although other distances are possible and may be desirable). In some embodiments, the secondary seal can include an adhesive sealing material such as, for example, a polymer material. The spacer material can be water-resistant. The spacer material can add structural support to the assembly. The spacer material can include silicone, polyurethane, Teflon, or a structural sealing material that forms a watertight seal.

[0181] In some embodiments, one or more controllers are operably coupled to the window. One or more controllers may be associated with (e.g., operably coupled to) one or more colorable 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 current to a coating of an EC device. One or more window controllers can have various sizes, forms, and positions with respect to the optically switchable windows they control. At least one controller can be attached to the lite of the IGU or its laminate. At least one controller can be disposed, for example, within a frame that houses the IGU or laminate. At least one controller can be disposed at a location separate from the IGU (or its laminate). The colorable window can include one, two, three, or more electrochromic panes (electrochromic devices on a transparent substrate). Also, individual panes of an electrochromic window can include an electrochromic coating, for example, having independently colorable zones. At least one controller can control at least two (e.g., all) of the electrochromic coatings associated with the window(s), whether the electrochromic coating is monolithic or compartmentalized.

[0182] In some embodiments, the window controller is positioned proximate to the switchable window (e.g., not directly attached to the switchable window, IGU, or frame). For example, the window controller can be adjacent to the window, can be on a surface of one of the lights of the window, can be within a wall adjacent to the window (e.g., a wall having a boundary line with and / or contacting the window), or can be within the frame of the window assembly. In some embodiments, the window controller is a 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 coincide with the electrochromic window. The in-situ controller can be installed on-site (e.g., at the target location). The in-situ controller can move with the window from the factory (e.g., as part of the assembly). The in-situ controller can be installed on the window frame of the window assembly and / or on a part of the IGU (and / or laminate) assembly. For example, the controller can be attached to or between the panes of the IGU. For example, the controller can be disposed on the pane of the laminate. The controller can be a controller located in the 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 the controller are provided in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 951,410, filed November 14, 2015, entitled "SELF CONTAINED EC IGU", which application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The local controller can be provided as (i) two or more parts (e.g., portions), (ii) at least in part (e.g., including a memory component storing information regarding the associated electrochromic window), (iii) as part of the window assembly, and / or (iv) with at least one of its parts separate. The controller can be configured to mate with at least a portion of the window assembly, IGU, and / or laminate. The controller can be an assembly of interconnecting parts. The interconnecting parts may not be disposed within a single housing.The interconnecting portions of the controller (hte controller) can be spaced apart (e.g., in the secondary seal of the IGU). The controller can form a small unit. The small unit can be within a single housing. The small unit can be present within two or more separate components (e.g., dock and housing assembly) that are integrated. The controller can be disposed in an area visible or invisible to the occupant of the enclosure in which the controller is present.

[0183] In one embodiment, the window controller is incorporated in or on (i) the IGU and / or (ii) the window frame. The incorporation of the controller can occur before, during, and / or after installation at the target location of the colorable window. The controller (e.g., of the window) can be disposed within the same facility (e.g., building) as the window. For example, the controller can be incorporated in or on the IGU and / or window frame before leaving the manufacturing facility of the window and / or the controller. In one embodiment, the controller is incorporated in the IGU (e.g., substantially within the secondary seal). In another embodiment, the controller is partially, substantially, or entirely incorporated within the outer perimeter defined by the primary seal within or on the IGU. The outer perimeter can be between the sealing separator and the substrate (e.g., lite).

[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 possess 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 that are utilized, for example, in indicating a change in the coloring state of the IGU. When installed in an electrochromic window unit, the logic and characteristics 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 the window. For example, a dock component having off-the-shelf parts for any electrochromic window can be associated with at least one (e.g., each) window at the factory (e.g., where the controller and / or window structure is manufactured). After and / or during installation of the window (or at the target location, e.g., on-site), a second component of the controller can be combined with the dock component, e.g., to complete an electrochromic window controller assembly. The dock component can include a circuit. The dock component can include a chip. The chip can be programmed at the factory. The programming of the chip can take into account (e.g., factor in) one or more physical characteristics and / or parameters of the particular window to which the dock is attached. For example, the surface facing the interior of the building after installation may also be referred to as surface 4 or "S4". The second component (referred to as the "carrier", "casing", or "housing") can be mated with the dock. When the second component is mated with the dock, it can be powered. The second component can be configured to read the chip. The second component can configure itself to supply power to the window, e.g., according to one or more specific characteristics and / or parameters stored in the chip. The shipped window may require one or more associated characteristics and / or parameters (e.g., only these) stored in the chip. The chip can be integral with the window. Higher performance circuitry (e.g., as compared to the chip) and / or components can later be integrated with the controller window assembly. For example, higher performance circuitry (the mar sophisticated circuitry) and / or components can be shipped separately from (i) the window, the dock, and / or the second component, and / or can be installed by the window manufacturer (ii) after the glazier has installed the window and / or (b) after a test run 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 can be attached to the window controller.

[0187] The term "outboard" is understood in this specification to refer to a position closer to the external environment, and the term "inboard" is understood in this specification to refer to a position closer to the interior of the building. For example, in the case of an IGU having two panes, the pane placed closer to the external environment is called the outboard pane or the outer pane, while the pane placed closer to the interior of the building is called the inboard pane or the inner pane. As illustrated with respect to the example shown in FIG. 13, the different surfaces of the IGU can be referred to as S1, S2, S3, and S4 (assuming an IGU with two panes). S1 refers to the surface facing the outside of the outboard light (e.g., the surface that a person standing outside can physically touch). S2 refers to the surface facing the inside of the outboard light. S3 refers to the surface facing the outside of the inboard light. S4 refers to the surface facing the inside of the inboard light (e.g., the surface that a person standing inside the building can physically touch). In other words, the surfaces are labeled S1 - S4, counted from the outermost surface of the IGU towards the inside. This trend is maintained if the IGU includes three panes. In a particular embodiment using two panes, an electrochromic device (or other optically switchable device) is disposed on S3. In a particular embodiment, one or more of the surfaces have a structure for blocking the transmission of electromagnetic radiation. The IGU can include, for example, a shield stack of a plurality of conductive layers on an inner 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 on September 19, 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0188] Examples of window controllers and their features are presented in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,248, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS", U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,251, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS", U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 334,835, filed October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES", and International Application PCT / US17 / 20805, filed March 3, 2017, entitled "METHOD OF COMMISSIONING ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS", each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. FIG. 12 shows an example of a schematic cross-sectional view of an electrochromic device 1200 according to some embodiments shown in FIG. 12. The EC device coating is attached to a substrate 1202, a transparent conductive layer (TCL) 1204, an electrochromic layer (EC) 1206 (which may also be referred to as a cathode coloring layer or a cathode coloration layer), an ion conductive layer or region (IC) 1208, a counter electrode layer (CE) 1210 (which may also be referred to as an anode coloring layer or an anode coloration layer), and a second TCL 1214. 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 ends of the electrochromic stack 1220 causes, for example, a transition of the electrochromic coating from a clear state to a colored state. In other embodiments, the order of the layers is reversed with respect to the substrate. That is, the layers are in the following order: substrate, TCL, counter electrode layer, ion conductive 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 an embodiment, an electrochromic stack (e.g., 1220) can be deposited to include a cathodically coloring electrochromic material (EC layer) that physically contacts directly an anodically coloring counter electrode material (CE layer). An ion conductor region (also sometimes referred to as an interfacial region or an ion-conductive substantially electronically insulating layer or region) can in this case be formed, for example through heating and / or other processing steps, at the location where the EC layer and the CE layer are in contact. Examples of electrochromic devices (such as those fabricated 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 provide wetting, and / or to provide scratch resistance. These passive layers or other passive layers can function to seal the EC stack 1220. Various layers, such as transparent conductive layers (such as 1204 and 1214), can be treated with an antireflection layer and / or a protective layer (e.g., an oxide and / or nitride layer).

[0189] In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to (e.g., substantially) reversibly repeat between a clear state and a colored state. Reversible can be for the lifespan of the ECD. The lifespan can be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The lifespan can be any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 5 years to about 100 years, from about 5 years to about 50 years, or from 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 the available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material (e.g., 1206) to enter a colored state are primarily present at the counter electrode (e.g., 1210). When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, the ions are transported across the ion conducting layer (e.g., 1208) to the electrochromic material and can cause the material to enter a second colored state (e.g., a colored state).

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

[0191] In certain embodiments, at least a portion (e.g., all) of the materials that make up the electrochromic stack is inorganic, solid (e.g., in the solid state), or inorganic and solid. Inorganic materials offer the advantage of reliable electrochromic stacks that can function for extended periods because various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when exposed to heat and UV light, such as in the case of windows in colored buildings. In some embodiments, solid-state materials can offer the advantage of minimal contamination and minimizing leakage problems, as can sometimes be the case with liquid-state materials. One or more of the layers within the stack may contain some (e.g., measurable) organic material. An ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain little or no measurable organic matter. An ECD or any portion thereof (e.g., one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids that may be present in small amounts. Small amounts may be up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of the ECD. Solid-state materials can be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes that use liquid components, such as certain processes using sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and / or chemical vapor deposition.

[0192] FIG. 13 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a colorable window embodied in an insulating glass unit (“IGU”) 1300 according to some embodiments. The terms “IGU”, “colorable window”, and “optically switchable window” may be used interchangeably herein. When provided for installation within a building, it may be desirable to have an IGU that functions as a basic configuration for holding an electrochromic pane (also referred to as a “light”). The IGU light can be a single substrate or multi-substrate configuration. The light can include, for example, a laminate of two substrates. An IGU (e.g., having a double or triple pane configuration) can provide more advantages than a single pane configuration. For example, a multi-pane configuration can provide enhanced insulation, soundproofing, environmental protection, and / or durability compared to a single pane configuration. A multi-pane configuration can enhance the protection of the ECD. For example, an electrochromic film (along with associated layers and conductive interconnects) can be formed on the inner surface of the multi-pane IGU and can be protected by an inert gas fill within the inner volume of the IGU (e.g., 1308). The inert gas fill can provide at least some degree of (thermal) insulation function to the IGU. The electrochromic IGU can have a heat blocking function by a colorable coating that absorbs (and / or reflects) heat and light.

[0193] In some embodiments, an "IGU" includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, the IGU can include two glass panes. 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 in a hermetically sealed configuration, for example, having an interior region isolated from the ambient environment. A "window assembly" can include the IGU. The "window assembly" can include a laminate (e.g., a stand-alone). The "window assembly" can include, for example, one or more electrical conductors for connecting the IGU and / or the laminate. The electrical conductors can operably couple (e.g., connect) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, a switch, etc., and can include a frame that supports the IGU or the laminate. The window assembly can include a local controller (e.g., a window controller), and / or components of the 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 a component thereof (e.g., an enclosure such as a room) therein. In some embodiments, the first and second panes (e.g., 1304 and 1306) are transparent or translucent (e.g., at least to 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 impact-resistant glass. The glass can include silicon oxide (SOx). The glass can include soda-lime glass or float glass. The glass can include at least about 75% silica (SiO2). The glass can include oxides such as Na2O or Cao. The glass can include alkali or alkaline earth oxides. The glass can include one or more additives. The first and / or second panes can include any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Other materials (e.g., substrates) that can be included in the first and / or second panes are plastics, semi-plastics, and / or thermoplastic materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene, polycarbonate, allyl diglycol, carbonate, SAN (styrene acrylonitrile copolymer), poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyester, and / or polyamide. The first and / or second panes can include a mirror material (e.g., silver). In some embodiments, the first and / or second panes can be strengthened. Strengthening can include annealing, heating, and / or chemical strengthening.

[0195] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of a computer system 1400 that is programmed to perform any one or more operations of the methods provided herein or otherwise configured. The computer system can control (e.g., direct, monitor, and / or adjust) various features of the methods, apparatuses, and systems of the present disclosure, such as, for example, controlling the heating, cooling, lighting, and / or ventilation of an enclosure, or combinations thereof. The computer system can be part of or communicate with any sensor or sensor ensemble disclosed herein. The computer can be coupled to one or more of the 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 can include a processing unit (e.g., 1406) (also used herein as "processor", "computer", and "computer processor"). The computer system can include a memory or memory location (e.g., 1402) (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), an electronic storage unit (e.g., 1404) (e.g., hard disk), a communication interface (e.g., 1403) (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices (e.g., 1405) such as caches, other memories, data storage, and / or electronic display adapters. 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 line) such as a motherboard. The storage unit can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system can be operably coupled to a computer network ("network") (e.g., 1401) with the aid of the communication interface. The network can be the Internet, the Internet and / or an extranet, or an intranet and / or an extranet that communicates with the Internet. In some cases, the network is a telecommunications network and / or a data network. The network can include one or more computer servers that enable distributed computing such as cloud computing. The network can, in some cases, implement a peer-to-peer network with the aid of the computer system, thereby enabling devices coupled to the computer system to act as clients or servers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0203] In some embodiments, at least one sensor is operably coupled to a control system (e.g., a computer control system). The sensor may include an optical sensor, an acoustic sensor, a vibration sensor, a chemical sensor, an electrical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a fluidity sensor, a motion sensor, a speed 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 measurement sensor, a gas sensor, or a humidity sensor. The measurement sensor may include a measuring sensor (e.g., height, length, width, angle, and / or volume). The measurement sensor may include a magnetic, acceleration, orientation, or optical sensor. The sensor may transmit and / or receive sound (e.g., echo), magnetic, electronic, or electromagnetic signals. The electromagnetic signal may include a visible, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasonic, radio wave, or microwave signal. The gas sensor may sense any of the gases described herein. The distance sensor may be a type of measurement sensor. The distance sensor may include an optical sensor or a capacitance sensor. The temperature sensor may include a bolometer, a bimetal plate, a calorimeter, an exhaust thermometer, a flame detector, a Gardon gauge, a Golay cell, a heat flux sensor, an infrared radiation thermometer, a microbolometer, a microwave radiometer, a pure radiometer, a crystal thermometer, a resistance temperature detector, a thermistor, a thermocouple, a thermometer (e.g., a resistance thermometer), or a 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., an IR camera, a visible light camera, a CCD camera). The sensor may include a sensor array (e.g., an IR sensor array). The camera and / or the sensor array may include at least 2000, 3000, or 4000 pixels at its basic 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 an aneroid barometer, a barometer, a supercharger pressure gauge, a Bourdon tube vacuum gauge, a hot filament ionization vacuum gauge, an ionization vacuum gauge, a McLeod vacuum gauge, a vibrating U-tube, a permanent downhole pressure gauge, a piezometer, a Pirani vacuum gauge, a pressure sensor, a pressure gauge, a tactile sensor, a pressure gauge, or a time pressure gauge. The position sensor may include a dilatometer, a capacitive displacement sensor, capacitive sensing, a free fall sensor, a gravimeter, a gyro sensor, an impact sensor, an inclinometer, an integrated circuit piezoelectric sensor, a laser rangefinder, a laser surface velocimeter, LIDAR, a linear encoder, a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), a liquid volume inclinometer, an odometer, an optoelectronic sensor, a piezoelectric accelerometer, a speed sensor, a rotary encoder, a rotary variable differential transformer, a cellsin, an impact detector, an impact data logger, an inclination sensor, a tachometer, an ultrasonic thickness gauge, a variable magnetoresistance sensor, or a speed receiver. The optical sensor may include a charge coupled device, a colorimeter, a contact image sensor, an electro-optical sensor, an infrared sensor, a motion inductance detector, a light emitting diode (e.g., an optical sensor), a photo-addressable potentiometric sensor, a Nichols radiometer, an optical fiber sensor, an optical position sensor, a photodetector, a photodiode, a photomultiplier tube, a phototransistor, an optoelectronic sensor, a photoionization detector, a photomultiplier, a photoresistor, a photoelectric switch, a photocell, 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 is configured for wireless communication. The target device may comprise 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, for example, IEEE 802.15.4. In some embodiments, the signal may include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or an EnOcean signal (e.g., wide bandwidth). The one or more signals may include an ultra-wideband (UWB) signal (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 signal may be one having a ratio bandwidth of more than about 20%. The ultra-wideband signal can have a bandwidth of more than about 500 megahertz (MHz). The one or more signals may use very low energy levels for short distances. The signal (e.g., having a radio frequency) may use a spectrum that can penetrate solid structures (e.g., walls, doors, and / or windows). 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 operably coupled to a control system configured to (I) determine the location of a temporary transceiver in real time, (II) determine the location of the temporary transceiver with an accuracy of about 20, 10, or 5 centimeters, or greater, (III) transmit and sense ultra-wideband radio waves, and / or (IV) control the facility in which the local network of one or more stationary sensors and / or stationary transceivers is disposed.

[0205] In some embodiments, the local network incorporates and / or facilitates geolocation technologies (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS), Bluetooth (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and / or dead reckoning) using, for example, micro-location chips. The geolocation technologies can facilitate determination of 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 includes Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radio waves, Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves utilized by the Global Positioning System (GPS). In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation includes electromagnetic waves at a frequency of at least about 300 MHz, 500 MHz, or 1200 MHz. In some embodiments, the signal includes location and / or time data. In some embodiments, the tag utilizes Bluetooth, UWB, UHF, and / or Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies. In some embodiments, the signal has a spatial capacity of at least about 1013 bits per 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 over short distances (e.g., up to about 300 feet (‘), 250’, 230’, 200’, or 150’) at low power (e.g., less than about 1 milliwatt (mW), 0.75 mW, 0.5 mW, or 0.25 mW). UWB signals can occupy a bandwidth spectrum of at least about 750 MHz, 500 MHz, or 250 MHz, and / or at least about 30%, 20%, or 10% of its center frequency. UWB signals can be transmitted by one or more pulses. Components can broadcast digital signal pulses that are (e.g., precisely) timed on a carrier signal across several frequency channels simultaneously. 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 the signal (e.g., pulse), its amplitude, and / or by using orthogonal signals (e.g., pulses). UWB signals can be a low-power information transfer protocol. UWB technology can be utilized for (e.g., indoor) location-specific applications. The wide UWB spectrum includes low frequencies with long wavelengths that allow UWB signals to penetrate various substances such as various building fixtures (e.g., walls). For example, a wide range of frequencies such as low penetration frequencies can reduce the chance of multipath propagation errors (not bound by theory, but some wavelengths may have line-of-sight trajectories). UWB communication signals (e.g., pulses) can be short (e.g., up to about 70 cm, 60 cm, or 50 cm for pulses with a width of about 600 MHz, 500 MHz, or 400 MHz, or up to about 20 cm, 23 cm, 25 cm, or 30 cm for pulses with a bandwidth of about 1 GHz, 1.2 GHz, 1.3 GHz, or 1.5 GHz). Short communication signals (e.g., pulses) can reduce the possibility that reflected signals (e.g., pulses) overlap with the original signal (e.g., 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 and vertical data planes can have at least one (e.g., substantially) similar transport capacity. The horizontal and vertical data planes can have at least one (e.g., substantially) similar type of network component. In other cases, these two data planes have different data transport capacities. In some cases, the horizontal and vertical data planes have (e.g., substantially) the same (or similar) data transport capacity and / or type of network component. In other cases, the vertical and horizontal data planes have at least one (e.g., all) different data transport capacity and / or network component from each other. For example, the vertical data plane can include network components for high-speed communication (e.g., data transmission) speeds and / or bandwidths. The faster communication speeds can 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 faster communication speeds can be any communication 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 FIGS. 15-18 present network topologies that can be alternatives to the topologies presented for some of the other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the network topologies of FIGS. 15-18 can, in some cases, be alternatives to a linear bus topology. The network topologies described with respect to FIGS. 15-18 can use control components such that the control panel has functions and / or design elements that are similar to and / or overlap with the components described in the other embodiments presented herein. The data conveyed and / or data protocols used in the topologies of FIGS. 15-18 can be replaced or supplemented by the data and / or data protocols described in the other embodiments presented herein. The data conveyed and / or data protocols used in the topologies of FIGS. 15-18 can be conveyed within the frequency ranges described in the other embodiments presented herein. To the extent that conductive data carrier lines (e.g., coaxial or twisted (e.g., pair) cables) are used in the network topologies presented in FIGS. 15-18, vertical data and / or horizontal data can be configured such that in certain embodiments the conductive data carrier lines can transmit power to end devices.

[0209] Different physical network topologies can be used to supply power and / or communication data to building devices on a horizontal data plane (e.g., on a given floor of a building, or on multiple (e.g., contiguous) floors). 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 disposed on the outer perimeter of floor 1503 of a building. Dashed lines indicate (e.g., high-speed) data communication paths provided by fiber optic cables.

[0210] Network topology A has a star configuration in which each building device 2 is directly connected to the control panel 1 by a dedicated (e.g., fiber optic cable) link. Network topology A can be easy to design and implement (e.g., requiring minimal labor time and / or cost). Network A can facilitate the addition of new building devices to the network. However, the single central control panel can present a single point of failure within the network. If a failure occurs in the control panel 1, data communication to all building devices 2 on the floor may be affected. Further, 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 the building devices 2 are connected to the central control panel 1 by intermediate control panels 1', and each intermediate control panel 1' is associated with a plurality of building devices 2. Network topology B can reduce the amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cabling) compared to topology A, which is required to provide data communication to each building device 2 within the network. The amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cabling) required for network B increases linearly as more devices are added to the network, but the length of wiring required for each additional device within topology B is less than that required in topology A. Network topology B incorporates more control panels than network topology A to increase the level of physical redundancy to some extent, but the central control panel 1 presents a single point of failure within the network.

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

[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, wiring, control panels, radios, antennas, and other network components associated with the ring are located within and / or on the exterior structure (i.e., facade) of the building. Similarly, at least some (e.g., all) network components of other network topologies described herein may be disposed on the facade of an enclosure (e.g., a building). The facade of a building may include various structures that function as the exterior structure of the building. The facade of a building may include fixtures (e.g., walls). Examples include the exterior walls of a building, exterior windows, optionally optically switchable windows, facades, window frameworks, and the like. In various embodiments, the facade of a building may provide internal passageways for network wiring and / or provide support surfaces for mounting control panels or other network devices, including columns, lintels, and / or other structures.

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

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

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

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

[0218] An exemplary second wiring (e.g., coaxial or other cable) network tap 1601’ is shown in more detail in FIG. 16B. The network tap 1601’ includes branch 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 the drop lines 1613’, 1615’, and 1617’. The branch targets (e.g., devices) 1613, 1614, 1615, 1616, and 1617 can be any type of building device that requires power and / or data supply. For example, the branch devices can include one or more electrochromic devices (electrochromic windows or insulating glass units (IGUs)), external sensing devices (such as optical or weather sensors), internal sensing devices (such as internal air quality monitoring devices or asset tracking devices), communication devices (antennas, receivers, transceivers, or radios), digital architecture elements, or building security devices (such as burglar alarms), lighting, or HVAC components. The distributed control panel 1601 includes a 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 source is provided by a power line such as a coaxial or other cable line. The dedicated power line can extend around the perimeter of the building, e.g., parallel to other (e.g., optical fiber) cabling of the primary ring. In other embodiments, the distributed control panel is connected to a DC power source by, e.g., a DC power line. The DC power line can extend around the perimeter of the building, e.g., parallel to the (e.g., optical fiber) cable of the primary ring.The head-end unit 1628 within the distributed control panel 1601 can function as a data communication gateway between the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) primary ring and the second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch 1601'. Each of the second wiring network branches 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606 may be similar to branch 1601' in form, but the number and type of branch devices and device controllers present in each branch may vary, for example, according to the requirements of the building.

[0219] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 16A, the optical fiber primary ring connects the distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 around the ring to a building (e.g., Ethernet) network configured for data communication such as control data for controlling various branch devices. The first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) primary ring can support high-speed data transmission at a speed of, for example, 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., nearly zero or zero) interference. In some embodiments, the optical fiber primary ring 1612 does not provide power transmission to the distributed control panel.

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

[0221] Each distributed control panel node within the primary ring shown in FIG. 16A may be accessible, for example, due to the ring topology of the network, via two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths. By using a network protocol (such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), which is often used in networks with a ring topology), it may be possible to build redundancy into the floor network. For example, if a given node causes a fault that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through the node, communication with adjacent nodes on the ring may not be blocked (since each node can reach via an alternative path). Thus, fault-tolerant redundancy can be incorporated into the network. Redundancy can be advantageous when one or more network branches include branch devices (singular or plural) that are used in applications requiring high reliability (e.g., a reduced number of fault 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 FIG. 16A can be simple (e.g., requiring less effort, a less skilled workforce, and / or being installed at a lower cost). Further, by using a second linear wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch around the primary ring, significant cost savings can be achieved, for example, by reducing the length of the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cable) required to provide (e.g., high-speed) data communication to all devices within the network. The topology shown in FIG. 16A can achieve both floor-wide fault tolerance, the provision of (e.g., high-speed) data communication, 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 that support at least about 10 gigabits per second or more of Ethernet transmission (e.g., using UTP wires and / or fiber optic cables), and the horizontal data plane includes data carrying components that also support at least about 10 gigabits per second or more of Gigabit Ethernet transmission, e.g., via fiber optic cables. In some cases, the horizontal data plane supports data transmission via communication protocols (such as the G.hn protocol and / or MoCA protocols such as the MoCA2.5 standard or MoCA3.0 standard). In certain embodiments, the connection between at least two floors in the vertical data plane uses a control panel with (e.g., high-speed) Ethernet switches. These same control panels can communicate with the node(s) of 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 disposed in the horizontal data plane.

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

[0225] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16A, each branch 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', 1716' of the second wiring network includes one or more branch devices coupled to a linear second wiring branch line by a corresponding second wiring 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 units within the distributed control panels function as gateways for data communication between the first wiring primary ring 1713 or the first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) secondary ring 1720 and the respective second wiring (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the first wiring primary ring 1713 and the first wiring secondary ring 1720 connect the distributed control panels on the ring to the building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes. Further, the second wiring network branches arranged around the ring connect various distributed control panels to the branch devices to supply both power and data. Power is supplied to the distributed control panels by dedicated AC power sources, which is rectified to DC within the distributed control panels and delivered to the branch devices via the second wiring branch lines. Data from the first wiring primary ring 1713 and secondary ring 1720 is received by the head end units within the distributed control panels and transmitted to the branch devices via the second wiring branch lines using, for example, communication protocols (e.g., G.hn, MoCA, and / or cellular protocols). DC power can be transmitted instead of AC power using Power Line Communication (PLC) and / or Electrical Power over Ethernet methods.

[0226] In the example shown in FIG. 17A, each distributed control panel node within the primary ring 1713 is accessible via two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths due to the ring topology of the network. Additionally, each distributed control panel node within the secondary ring 1720 is also accessible via at least two different first wiring paths. By using a network protocol such as the 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 within the primary ring 1713 causes a fault that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, the communication with adjacent nodes on the primary ring is not blocked because each node can reach via an alternative path. Similarly, if a distributed control panel 1715 or 1716 within the secondary ring 1720 causes a fault that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, the communication with adjacent nodes on the secondary ring is not hindered (e.g., not blocked) because it can reach via an alternative path.

[0227] Including a secondary ring in the floor network can enable data and power to be supplied to one or more branch devices located inside the building. For example, such a network topology may be suitable for a floor design that incorporates internal rooms, other enclosed spaces, or internal open spaces such as an atrium. The internal open space can be surrounded by branch targets (e.g., devices) such as electrochromic windows, antennas, or sensor units. Thus, the secondary ring can be arranged around the inner perimeter of the building, e.g., around the outer perimeter of an internal open space within the building. The secondary ring topology may be suitable for a floor design that does not incorporate an internal open space. In such an embodiment, the secondary ring can supply power and data to branch devices located inside the building, such as electrochromic windows incorporated into partitions, internal sensors, or burglar alarms.

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

[0229] FIG. 17B shows an example of the physical network topology of floor 1700 of a building, including distributed control panels 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 that are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring (e.g., optical fiber or other cables) 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 that are connected in series with each other by segments of first wiring 1717, 1718, and 1719 to form a first wiring secondary ring 1720 within the primary ring 1713. The secondary ring 1720 is connected to the primary ring 1713 at two different locations by segments of first wiring 1721 and 1722. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, and 1706 forms a node within the primary ring 1713, while each distributed control panel 1714, 1715, and 1716 forms a node within the secondary ring 1720. Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, and 1716 is also connected to 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 perimeter of the floor adjacent to the outer perimeter of the building, and each of the second wiring network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', and 1706' of the primary ring extends along each respective portion of the outer perimeter of the building floor. The secondary ring 1720 extends around the center of the floor within the primary ring 1713, similar to each of the second wiring network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716' of the secondary ring.

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

[0231] As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A, each distributed control panel node within the primary ring 1713 shown in FIG. 17B is accessible via at least two different first wiring (e.g., optical fiber) paths due to the ring topology of the network. Each distributed control panel node within the secondary ring 1720 is also accessible via at least two different first wiring paths. Thus, by using a network protocol such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy into the floor network. For example, if a given node within the primary ring 1713 experiences a fault that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the primary ring is not blocked because each node can reach them via an alternative path. Similarly, if a given node within the secondary ring 1720 experiences a fault that prevents (e.g., blocks) the communication of signals through that node, communication with adjacent nodes on the secondary ring is not blocked (e.g., not prevented) because each node can reach them via a...

Claims

1. A system for a facility, the system comprising: (i) a main cable configured to transmit an electric current, (ii) a first type of communication signal used for controlling at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; A branch cable configured to transmit (i) the electric current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch cable being configured to couple to the at least one device; A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, the distribution junction: Coupled to the main cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; Coupled to the branch cable by the third connection portion; Directing (i) the electric current from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the main cable and directing (i) the electric current from the second connection portion to the first connection portion along the main cable; Directing (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the main cable; Directing (i) the electric current from the main cable to the branch cable; Directing (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the main cable to the branch cable; A distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device.

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

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the distribution junction is configured to perform bidirectional communication.

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

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

6. A system for a facility, the system comprising: (i) a main cable configured to transmit current, (ii) a first type of communication signal used for controlling at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; (i) a branch cable configured to transmit the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch cable being configured to couple to the at least one device; a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction: coupled to the main cable by the first connection and the second connection; coupled to the branch cable by the third connection; directing (i) the current from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; directing (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the first connection to the second connection along the main cable; directing (i) the current from the main cable to the branch cable; directing (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the main cable to the branch cable; a distribution junction configured to operably couple to the at least one device; wherein directing (i) the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal is performed actively.

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

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the at least one controller is disposed at the distribution junction.

9. A system for a facility, the system comprising: (i) a main cable configured to transmit current, (ii) a first type of communication signal used for controlling at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; A branch cable configured to transmit (i) the current, (ii) the communication signal of the first type, and (iii) the communication signal of the second type, wherein the branch cable is configured to couple to the at least one device, a branch cable A distribution junction having a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, wherein the distribution junction Is coupled to the trunk cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion Is coupled to the branch cable by the third connection portion Directs (i) the current from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the trunk cable Directs (ii) the communication signal of the first type and (iii) the communication signal of the second type from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the trunk cable Directs (i) the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable Directs (ii) the communication signal of the first type and (iii) the communication signal of the second type from the trunk cable to the branch cable A distribution junction configured to be operably coupled to the at least one device, comprising Directing (i) the current, (ii) the communication signal of the first type, and (iii) the communication signal of the second type is controlled by at least one controller The at least one controller is disposed in the distribution junction An actively executed system

10. The distribution junction is configured to direct (ii) the communication signal of the first type and (iii) the communication signal of the second type from the second connection portion to the first connection portion along the trunk cable, and The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, configured to direct (ii) the communication signal of the first type and (iii) the communication signal of the second type from the branch cable to the trunk cable

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the distribution junction is configured to connect to the at least one device through the branch cable An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having a circuit, the at least one controller To be operably coupled to a cabling system, wherein the cabling system comprises: (i) a main cable configured to transmit current, (ii) a first type of communication signal utilized for controlling at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication; (i) a branch cable configured to transmit the current, (ii) the first type of communication signal, and (iii) the second type of communication signal, the branch cable being configured to be coupled to the at least one device; To be operably coupled to a distribution junction including a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and a third connection portion, wherein the distribution junction is: configured to be coupled to the main cable by the first connection portion and the second connection portion; configured to be coupled to the branch cable by the third connection portion; configured to direct (i) the current from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the main cable and to direct (i) the current from the second connection portion to the first connection portion along the main cable; configured to direct (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the first connection portion to the second connection portion along the main cable; configured to direct (i) the current from the main cable to the branch cable; configured to direct (ii) the first type of communication signal and (iii) the second type of communication signal from the main cable to the branch cable; To be operably coupled to the at least one device; To control the at least one device by using or instructing the use of (ii) the first type of communication signal. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or instruct the reception of a power request from the at least one device. **Claim 14**: The at least one controller is configured to direct the current along the backbone cable to the at least one device, wherein (i) the current is transmitted through the distribution junction, the device according to claim 13. **Claim 15**: The at least one controller is configured to establish or instruct the establishment of an operating time schedule for the at least one device, the device according to any one of claims 12 to 14. **Claim 16**: The at least one controller determines or instructs the determination of the time required for a given process to be executed by the at least one device, and determines or instructs the determination of the time when the operation of the at least one device is required, the device according to claim 15. **Claim 17**: 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 interleave or instruct the interleaving of the issuance of the first request and the second request, the device according to any one of claims 12 to 16. **Claim 18**: The at least one controller is configured to prioritize or instruct the prioritization of power budgets among a plurality of the devices and / or a plurality of cables according to logic, the device according to any one of claims 12 to 17. **Claim 19**: The logic includes (i) device specifications, (ii) device power requirements, (iii) machine learning (ML) for predicting the power usage by the at least one device based on historical data of power usage, (iv) one or more scheduling constraints, or (v) an inference engine, the device according to claim 18. **Claim 20**: The at least one controller is configured to use or instruct the use of the prioritization of the power budget to generate a power distribution scheme for one of the plurality of cables and / or one of the plurality of devices, the device according to claim 18. **Claim 21**: The at least one device includes a plurality of devices, and the at least one controller is configured to define or instruct the definition of a list of device priorities regarding power usage among the plurality of devices. The at least one controller is configured to monitor or instruct the monitoring of power distribution to the plurality of devices, and the plurality of devices are connected to a network. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 20. **Claim 22**: A system for power transmission and communication transmission within a facility, the system comprising: (i) a cabling system having a cable configured to transmit (i) an electric current, (ii) a first type of communication signal used for controlling at least one device of the facility, and (iii) a second type of communication signal configured for media communication, the cabling system being configured to operably couple to the at least one device; a cabling system; a first antenna configured to receive (iii) the second type of communication signal external to the facility and transmit (iii) the second type of communication signal external to the facility, the first antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; a first antenna; a second antenna configured to receive (iii) the second type of communication signal inside the facility and transmit (iii) the second type of communication signal inside the facility, the second antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; a second antenna; at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to control the at least one device using (ii) the first type of communication signal; (i) a distribution junction configured to direct the electric current along the cable from upstream to downstream of the system and from downstream to upstream of the system. A system comprising.

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