Multi-Zone Tintable Windows for Independent Glare and Daylight Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic windows have not realized their full commercial potential due to various issues, and existing technologies lack the ability to independently control multiple tinting zones to optimize occupant comfort and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-zone tintable windows with independently controllable tinting zones, utilizing electrochromic devices and resistive zones, allows for selective tinting and glare control, energy management, and daylighting optimization through a control system that considers occupancy and environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single electrochromic device is used for the entire window, then manufacturing is simpler and cost is reduced, but the ability to independently control different zones for optimized comfort and energy efficiency is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic device is divided into multiple independently controllable zones (first tinting zone, second tinting zone, third tinting zone) with separate bus bars for each zone. This segmentation allows different zones to be controlled independently based on occupancy and environmental conditions, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability by providing zone-level control while maintaining a unified device structure.
2Ease of operation
If the entire window is tinted uniformly, then glare control is simplified, but the ability to maximize natural light in unoccupied areas while controlling glare in occupied areas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different zones of the window are assigned different tint states based on local conditions (occupancy, sunlight exposure). The control system can tint the first tinting zone heavily to block glare in occupied areas while keeping the second and third zones lighter to maximize natural light in unoccupied areas, achieving localized optimization of both glare control and natural light utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate electrochromic devices are used for different zones, then independent control capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrochromic zones are merged into a single monolithic electrochromic device with shared electrodes and electrolyte layers, but with separate bus bars for independent control. This merging approach provides independent zone control capability while avoiding the complexity and cost of multiple separate devices, as the zones share common structural components and can be controlled through a unified control system.
4Illumination intensity
If the window is kept clear to maximize natural light, then daylighting is improved, but thermal load and energy efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The window transitions dynamically between clear and tinted states based on real-time conditions (occupancy detection, sunlight intensity, time of day). The control system adjusts the tint level of each zone independently, allowing the window to maximize natural light during periods when cooling demand is low while providing thermal protection during peak heat load periods, optimizing both daylighting and energy efficiency through dynamic adaptation.
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
Enhances occupant comfort by reducing glare and thermal load while maximizing natural light, improving energy efficiency by minimizing artificial lighting and heating needs, and providing enhanced security through customizable tinting configurations.
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 resistive zone between adjacent tinting zones
Data Source
AI summary
Window controllers and methods for controlling tinting and other functions of tinting zones of multi-zone tintable windows and multiple tinting zones of a group of tintable windows.