Aircraft Dimmable Window Control for Cabin Light Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional windows in vehicles lack the ability to dynamically adjust transmissivity in response to changing light conditions, leading to operator discomfort and reduced visual acuity, necessitating the use of additional mechanical devices like sun shades and sun visors.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for automatically controlling dimmable window panels using an optical detection unit and control unit to adjust light transmissivity based on illumination levels, enabling dynamic real-time adjustments and minimizing manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional windows are used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the operator discomfort increases and visual acuity deteriorates under varying light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies electrochromic glass technology that enables the window to dynamically change its light transmission properties from transparent to opaque and intermediate states based on electrical voltage application. This dynamic capability allows the window to adapt to varying light conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and operator comfort by introducing controlled complexity only where needed for adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the optical parameter (light transmissivity) of the window by applying different voltage levels to the electrochromic material. This parameter change enables the window to provide optimal visual conditions for operators under different ambient lighting conditions, improving ease of operation while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If sun shades and sun visors are added, then operator discomfort is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of sun shades and sun visors into the window glass itself by integrating electrochromic material directly into the window panel. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mechanical shading devices, reducing device complexity while maintaining operator comfort through automated light transmission control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical sun shades and visors with an electro-optical system. Instead of using mechanical devices that physically block light, the electrochromic glass electronically controls light transmission by changing its optical properties when voltage is applied, substituting a mechanical system with a more efficient electro-optical solution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual control of dimmable windows is used, then the window can be adjusted, but the operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates optical detection units that continuously monitor ambient light conditions and provide feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables automated adjustment of the electrochromic window's light transmission properties, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and reducing workload while maintaining adaptability to changing light conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting light conditions and adjusting the window's transmissivity without requiring operator action. The control unit autonomously manages the electrochromic glass based on sensor input, freeing operators from manual adjustment tasks while maintaining optimal visual conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dimmable window panels are implemented, then adaptability to light conditions improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic window maintains its adjusted state without continuous energy input once the desired transmissivity level is achieved. The system uses periodic or intermittent voltage application to change states, then maintains those states passively, reducing overall energy consumption compared to systems requiring continuous power for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated feedback control system optimizes energy consumption by adjusting the window's transmissivity only when and where needed based on actual light conditions. The optical detection units monitor ambient lighting and trigger electrochromic activation only during periods of excessive light, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides homogeneous cabin illumination, reduces operator discomfort, and minimizes the need for additional shading devices, while optimizing energy consumption and reducing air conditioning efforts.
Implementation Method 1
The transmissivity of a dimmable window can be controlled electronically, such as by controlling a voltage or electric field applied to the window
Implementation Method 2
A dimmable window typically changes light transmission properties of the dimmable window when voltage or heat is applied to the window
Implementation Method 3
an optical detection unit for detecting an illumination level inside the cabin
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention provides a system (10) for automatically controlling a dimmable window panel, in particular a dimmable window panel of an aircraft cabin and/or spacecraft cabin, the system (10) comprising: a dimmable window panel (11) of a cabin (12), wherein the dimmable window panel (11) has an adjustable light transmissivity; an optical detection unit (13) for detecting an illumination level inside the cabin (12); and a control unit (14), which is operatively coupled to the dimmable window panel (11) and to the optical detection unit (13), wherein the control unit (14) is configured to automatically adjust the light transmissivity based on the illumination level. Further the present invention provides an aircraft (1) comprising such a system (10) as well as a method (M) for automatically controlling a dimmable window panel, in particular a dimmable window panel of an aircraft cabin and/or spacecraft cabin.