Predictive Electrochromic Window Tint Control With Neural Forecasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic devices, particularly electrochromic windows, have not realized their full commercial potential due to various issues despite advances in technology, including inefficiencies in controlling tint and energy savings.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising a tintable window, a window controller, and a forecasting module that uses neural networks, such as LSTM or DNN, to process sensor data from photosensors and infrared sensors to forecast environmental conditions and adjust the tint of the window accordingly, optimizing energy efficiency and user comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If electrochromic windows are used to control light transmittance, then energy savings are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control systems and sensors required
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic window system performs self-control by using integrated sensors to detect environmental conditions (light intensity, temperature) and automatically adjusting the electrochromic layer's transmittance state without requiring external control systems or user intervention, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining energy savings
Solution Approach 2:
The control system merges multiple functions into a single integrated unit by combining sensors, control logic, and the electrochromic actuation system into one cohesive device, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system architecture
2Ease of operation
If dynamic tint adjustment is implemented, then user comfort is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to integration of multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The window is divided into multiple independently controllable zones or segments, each with its own electrochromic layer and control capabilities, allowing dynamic adjustment of different regions to optimize user comfort while using standardized manufacturing processes for each segment
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochromic window system is designed to perform multiple functions including light control, thermal insulation, and UV protection through a single device structure, eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying manufacturing while enhancing user comfort
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 effectively controls the tint of electrochromic windows based on environmental forecasts, enhancing energy savings and user comfort by dynamically adjusting the window's transmittance in response to predicted weather conditions and sunlight exposure.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in an optical property when placed in a different electronic state, typically by being subjected to a voltage change. The optical property is typically one or more of color, transmittance, absorbance, and reflectance.
Implementation Method 2
A control system comprising a tintable window, a window controller, and a forecasting module that uses neural networks, such as LSTM or DNN, to process sensor data from photosensors and infrared sensors to forecast environmental conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling tinting of one or more zones of windows in a building based on predictions of future environmental conditions.