Power Distribution Networks for Electrochromic Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and maintenance of networks of electrochromic windows are complex due to power and communication requirements, making it difficult to add additional windows, especially in large buildings, as existing systems face limitations in power/voltage/current/safety, requiring specialized personnel and increasing costs and installation time.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution network and communication network are designed to efficiently deliver power and control signals to electrochromic windows, using class 1 and class 2 power circuits, trunk lines, drop lines, and remote power panels, allowing for fewer cables and easier installation by ordinary contractors, while ensuring safety and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power distribution systems are used for electrochromic windows, then power delivery is achieved, but installation complexity and costs increase due to safety limitations requiring specialized personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into Class 1 circuits (for high-power applications) and Class 2 circuits (for low-power applications). This segmentation allows different safety requirements and installation qualifications to apply to different parts of the system, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining reliability where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (voltage and current limits) of the power distribution system by defining Class 1 and Class 2 circuit categories. Class 2 circuits are limited to 30V and 1000VA, allowing installation by ordinary contractors without specialized personnel, while Class 1 circuits handle higher powers with appropriate safety measures
2Adaptability or versatility
If more electrochromic windows are installed in large buildings, then building control capability improves, but power distribution complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power distribution framework that can accommodate any number of electrochromic windows through standardized Class 1 and Class 2 circuit configurations. This universality allows scalable installation across large buildings without proportionally increasing complexity or installation time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes preliminary safety parameters and circuit classification standards before installation begins. By pre-defining Class 1 and Class 2 circuit characteristics and safety requirements, the system enables ordinary contractors to quickly install additional windows without requiring complex real-time safety assessments
3Power
If higher power circuits are used to power more windows, then power availability improves, but safety risks and specialized personnel requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by establishing distinct voltage and power thresholds that define Class 1 (>30V or >1000VA) and Class 2 (≤30V and ≤1000VA) circuits. This creates a clear boundary where higher power availability is achieved through Class 1 circuits with appropriate safety measures, while Class 2 circuits provide sufficient power for many applications with reduced safety risks and no specialized personnel requirements
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments herein relate to power distribution networks for optically switchable windows. In some embodiments, a system for monitoring and maintaining a power distribution network of optically switchable windows of a site is provided. The system includes a control panel monitor which is configured to determine a control panel voltage and current at a terminal of a control panel. The system further includes sense circuitry which is configured to determine a first window controller voltage and current for a first window controller of a plurality of window controllers. The system further includes one or more controllers which are configured to generate voltage network data based on a combination of the control panel voltage and current and the first window controller voltage and current. The system then determines an error condition in the power distribution network based on the voltage network data.