Electrochromic Window Tint Control Using Outside Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic devices and windows have not realized their full commercial potential due to various problems, including inefficiencies in controlling tint levels based on environmental conditions, despite advances in electrochromic technology.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for determining and controlling tint states of tintable windows using a 3D model of a building site, integrating glare and reflection models, and incorporating outside temperature as a factor to adjust tint levels, with a network of processors and sensors to automate the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electrochromic windows are used to control light transmission, then energy efficiency is improved, but control efficiency based on environmental conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple sensors (illuminance sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors) to automatically detect environmental conditions and trigger appropriate tint states without manual intervention. The controller autonomously processes sensor data and adjusts window tinting based on predefined thresholds, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminate the need for manual operation while maintaining high control efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors environmental parameters through sensors and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust window tint states. The controller receives real-time data from sensors about illuminance, temperature, and humidity levels, compares these against threshold values, and automatically transitions windows between clear and tinted states to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining comfort
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual control of tint levels is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to environmental conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the window control into multiple independent zones, each with its own sensors and control logic. Each zone can be independently adjusted based on local environmental conditions, allowing different parts of the building to adapt to their specific needs. This segmentation enables high adaptability while keeping each control unit relatively simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to handle multiple functions: processing data from various sensor types (illuminance, temperature, humidity), determining appropriate tint states based on multiple environmental factors, and controlling multiple window zones. This multi-functional design achieves high adaptability to different environmental conditions while consolidating complexity into a single intelligent control unit
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 determines optimal tint states for each zone of tintable windows based on environmental conditions, improving energy efficiency and user comfort by automatically adjusting tint levels in response to sunlight and temperature changes.
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
Tungsten oxide is a cathodic electrochromic material in which a coloration transition, transparent to blue, occurs by electrochemical reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for determining tint of at least one tintable window when the outside temperature is greater than a first threshold and/or less than a second threshold value.