Electrochromic Window Power Network Layout for Easier Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of networks of electrochromic windows is complicated by power and communication distribution challenges, including the need for extensive cabling and specialized labor, which increases costs and installation time, and makes it difficult to add additional windows to existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution network that uses class 1 or class 2 circuits to minimize cabling and allow for easier installation by using trunk lines and drop lines, with components like insulation displacement connectors and remote power panels, enabling power and communication to be transmitted efficiently and flexibly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power distribution methods are used for electrochromic window networks, then reliable power delivery is achieved, but extensive cabling and specialized labor are required, increasing installation complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power distribution and communication functions into a single integrated network infrastructure. Trunk lines and drop lines serve dual purposes: delivering power to electrochromic window controllers and transmitting communication signals for control and monitoring. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate cabling systems, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable power delivery across the window network.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution network is segmented into modular components: trunk lines that carry power over longer distances, drop lines that connect individual windows, and local controllers that manage power distribution at each window. This segmentation allows for scalable installation where additional windows can be integrated by simply adding new drop lines to existing trunk lines, reducing the need for extensive rewiring and specialized labor.
2Reliability
If extensive cabling is used to connect multiple electrochromic windows, then power and communication signals can be delivered, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network cables are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: power transmission, data communication, and device addressing. This multi-functionality allows a single cabling infrastructure to support all window controllers in the network, eliminating the need for separate signal cables and reducing overall installation time while ensuring reliable signal transmission across all windows.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates pre-configured controllers and standardized connection protocols that allow for rapid deployment. Controllers are pre-programmed with network addressing and communication parameters, enabling installers to simply connect devices without extensive configuration work. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces installation time while maintaining reliable signal transmission.
3Reliability
If specialized labor is used for installing electrochromic window networks, then proper system integration is achieved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window controllers are designed with self-configuration capabilities that automatically detect and register new devices on the network. When a new window is added, the controller autonomously determines its address, configures communication parameters, and integrates into the existing network without requiring specialized installation knowledge. This self-service feature maintains reliable system integration while enabling installation by general contractors rather than specialized technicians.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates diagnostic and monitoring functions that provide real-time feedback on installation status and system health. Controllers communicate installation progress and system configuration status back to installers through the same network infrastructure, enabling troubleshooting and verification without requiring specialized expertise. This feedback mechanism ensures proper system integration while simplifying the installation process.
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.