Electrochromic Window Antennas for Integrated Tint and Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic window technologies lack integrated solutions for efficient control and communication systems that can manage both optical transitions and wireless communication functions, limiting their ability to optimize energy usage and building management systems.
Innovation Solution
The integration of insulated glass units (IGUs) with embedded antenna structures and controllers that enable wireless communication and control of electrochromic devices, forming a network system that can operate as cellular base stations or repeaters, allowing for coordinated control of tint states and wireless signal transmission/reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic windows are implemented as thin layers covering window surfaces, then the device can be integrated into window structures, but the window lacks integrated wireless communication and control capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrochromic device, antenna structure, and controller into a single integrated window assembly. The controller is positioned behind the electrochromic layer and electrically connected to both the electrochromic electrodes and the antenna, creating a unified system that performs both optical control and wireless communication functions within the window structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the electrochromic layer controls light transmission, the antenna structure enables wireless communication for control signals and status reporting, and the integrated controller coordinates both functions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate control systems.
2Reliability
If separate control systems are used for electrochromic devices and wireless communication, then each function can be optimized independently, but energy efficiency and coordination between functions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller integrates both electrochromic device control and antenna operation management into a single unit. This allows the system to coordinate power consumption between the electrochromic layer and wireless communication functions, optimizing overall energy efficiency while maintaining reliable control of both functions through centralized management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If antenna structures are added to electrochromic windows, then wireless communication capabilities are enabled, but the window structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is positioned behind the electrochromic layer, with the controller also located behind the electrochromic layer. This nested arrangement places multiple functional components within the same spatial envelope, enabling wireless communication capabilities while maintaining a compact window structure without requiring additional external space.
4Device complexity
If controllers are integrated behind the electrochromic layer, then space is saved and integration is improved, but heat dissipation and signal interference may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is positioned in a specific location behind the electrochromic layer where it can access both the electrochromic electrodes and antenna structures. This localized placement optimizes electrical connections while the electrochromic layer itself acts as a thermal and electromagnetic barrier, providing natural isolation that mitigates heat and interference issues.
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
This solution enables efficient energy management, optimized building environments, and enhanced wireless communication capabilities within buildings by integrating electrochromic window control with wireless communication functions, improving both energy efficiency and building management systems.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in one or more optical properties when stimulated to a different electronic state
Implementation Method 2
the antenna structure comprises a fractal structure... configured to transmit and/or receive electromagnetic signals
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
In one aspect, an apparatus is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device (ECD) is arranged over the second surface that includes a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first and the second conductive layers. The apparatus further includes at least one conductive antenna structure arranged over the second surface.