Hub-based system for controlling automated windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart home devices, particularly motorized windows, face challenges such as high costs for replacement, limited retrofit solutions, power supply issues, and inadequate wireless control range, making it difficult to automate and control windows efficiently across various sizes and locations within a building.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a mobile device app, a hub with LAN and PAN interfaces, and automated windows with sensors and actuators, allowing for wireless control, energy-efficient operation, and integration with a cloud-based network for remote monitoring and control, using communication systems like Bluetooth and Z-Wave, and a kit for retrofitting existing windows with minimal modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motorized windows are automated with wireless control systems, then control flexibility and remote monitoring are improved, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic sleep/wake cycles where the window unit remains in low-power sleep mode and only activates wireless communication and sensors when triggered by events such as user commands, sensor detections, or scheduled times. This periodic operation dramatically reduces average power consumption while maintaining full wireless control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces wired electrical connections with wireless communication protocols (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or proprietary wireless protocols) to transmit control commands and sensor data. This substitution eliminates the need for physical power and data wiring to each window unit, enabling easier installation and greater flexibility while managing power consumption through efficient wireless protocols.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If solar panels are added to charge batteries, then power supply duration is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates solar panels that automatically charge the battery during daylight hours without requiring user intervention. The integrated power management circuitry autonomously regulates charging currents and monitors battery levels, making the system self-sufficient and reducing maintenance requirements while extending operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel integration serves multiple functions: generating electrical power to charge the battery, providing a visual indicator of outdoor light conditions, and potentially serving as a mounting surface for other sensors or communication antennas. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single component addition.
3Reliability
If control wiring is extended to each window location, then real-time control reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical control wiring with wireless communication protocols to transmit control commands from the hub to individual window units and to relay sensor data back to the hub. This eliminates the need to run cables through building structures, dramatically simplifying installation while maintaining reliable real-time control through protocols designed for low-latency communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a wireless hub as an intermediary device that coordinates communication between the control system and distributed window units. The hub manages wireless protocol handshaking, data routing, and synchronization, providing reliable control without requiring direct wired connections between the controller and each window, thus reducing installation complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If retrofit solutions are developed for existing windows, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retrofit kit is divided into separate modular components: a magnetic mounting assembly, a wireless control unit, a battery compartment, and sensor modules. Each component is designed to be independently installed and configured, allowing installers to adapt the system to various window types and sizes without requiring precise custom fabrication. The magnetic mounting system, in particular, provides flexible positioning without modifying the window structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses adjustable parameters such as magnetic mounting strength, battery capacity, and sensor sensitivity to adapt to different window applications. The magnetic mounts come in varying strengths to accommodate different window materials and thicknesses, while the wireless protocol allows for configurable communication ranges and power consumption levels, enabling precise adaptation without compromising manufacturing standards.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling one or more motorized windows. The motorized windows each have a processor, a network device and wireless transmitters enabling connection via a network. The network is controlled by one or more mobile devices which receive user input. The mobile devices wirelessly connect to a local area network (LAN) via a hub. One or more hubs are connected via the LAN. The motorized windows are networked via a personal area network (PAN). The hubs convert the LAN protocol to the PAN protocol. Sensors send sensor data along with real time weather data to the processor. The processor uses this sensor data to update charts and schedules in memory, then sends commands to the controller based on these updated charts and schedules according to user defined and factory set parameters. The system includes both local and cloud-based control.