Multi-zone tintable window glare control via independent zone segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic windows, despite advances in technology, have not realized their full commercial potential due to various issues such as inefficient glare control and energy management, primarily because existing systems either darken or lighten entire windows, failing to address occupant comfort and energy efficiency effectively.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-zone tintable windows with independently controllable tinting zones, enabled by monolithic electrochromic devices and resistive zones, allows for selective tinting of different areas of a window based on occupancy, glare, and energy control, using bus bars and subcontrollers to manage voltage and tint states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If entire windows are darkened or lightened uniformly, then simple control is achieved, but occupant comfort and energy efficiency deteriorate due to inability to address specific areas
Solution Approach 1:
The window is divided into multiple independently controllable zones (e.g., left, center, right zones or multiple panes) that can be tinted or cleared separately. This segmentation allows different areas of the window to respond to different conditions (glare, occupancy, energy needs) independently, resolving the contradiction between simple control and adaptive performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-zone independent control is implemented, then occupant comfort and energy efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single window assembly integrates multiple functions (glare control, energy management, privacy) across multiple zones within one device structure. The electrochromic technology provides universal functionality across all zones, allowing the system to handle diverse requirements without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses a hierarchical structure where a central controller coordinates multiple zone controllers, which in turn control individual electrochromic zones. This nested control architecture manages complexity by organizing control functions at appropriate levels rather than requiring centralized control of every individual zone element.
3Adaptability or versatility
If selective tinting of specific zones is enabled, then glare control and energy management improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic window is manufactured as a single integrated unit divided into functional zones by conductive bus bars and control interfaces. This segmentation is built into the manufacturing process through standardized zone divisions and electrical connection points, making multi-zone windows manufacturable using conventional electrochromic deposition techniques rather than requiring complex post-manufacturing assembly.
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 solution provides enhanced occupant comfort by minimizing glare and optimizing energy usage by allowing specific areas of a window to be tinted independently, balancing natural light entry with energy efficiency and glare reduction, thereby improving the overall performance of electrochromic windows.
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. One well known electrochromic material is tungsten oxide (WO3). Tungsten oxide is a cathodic electrochromic material in which a coloration transition, transparent to blue, occurs by electrochemical reduction.
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.