Methods for in situ control of tinted windows and control apparatuses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current smart window technologies face challenges in precisely determining optimal tint settings based on real-time environmental conditions, often relying on modeled data that is inaccurate and costly, with slow transition times and limited energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for in situ control of smart windows that use exterior and interior sensors to adjust light transmission in real-time, determining changes in environmental conditions and adjusting window properties such as tint levels within 15 seconds or less, using liquid crystal windows for faster and more precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If solid-state electrochromic glass windows are used for smart window control, then the window can change tint levels to manage light transmission, but the transition time between tint states becomes excessively slow (20 seconds to 30 minutes)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the window material from solid-state electrochromic glass to liquid crystal material. This parameter change enables the window to transition between tint states in seconds rather than minutes, directly resolving the speed contradiction while maintaining light transmission control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrochemical mechanism of solid-state electrochromic glass with an electrical field-based liquid crystal switching mechanism. This substitution eliminates the slow ionic migration process and enables rapid optical property changes through electrical control, resolving the transition time issue
2Ease of operation
If modeled or predictive methods are used to determine smart window setpoints, then the control process can be simplified, but the accuracy and precision of setpoint determination deteriorates due to numerous assumptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor actual environmental conditions (illumination, temperature, occupancy) and feed this data back to the control system. The system compares actual conditions with target conditions and automatically adjusts window setpoints to minimize deviations, achieving both ease of operation and high precision without relying on predictive models
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs self-adjustment based on real-time sensor data without requiring manual intervention or complex predictive algorithms. The system autonomously determines optimal setpoints by processing feedback from environmental sensors, maintaining simplicity while achieving accurate control
3Speed
If liquid crystal windows are used instead of electrochromic glass, then the transition speed improves significantly (to 15 seconds or less), but the device complexity and cost may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs liquid crystal window materials that, while offering faster transition speeds, are positioned as a cost-effective alternative to premium electrochromic glass. The liquid crystal technology provides comparable functionality with reduced complexity and potentially lower cost, making it a practical choice for achieving rapid transitions without excessive investment
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 approach enables precise and rapid adjustment of smart windows to optimize illumination, glare, and energy efficiency, improving occupant comfort and reducing energy consumption by using real-time data to set optimal tint levels and other environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one window comprises a liquid crystal window and altering the light transmission of the at least one window comprises actuating at least one liquid crystal layer in the liquid crystal window
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and apparatuses for in situ control of smart or tinted windows. Also disclosed are methods and apparatuses for controlling at least one internal environmental condition for an interior space including at least one window.