Predictive Window Shade Control for Targeted Solar Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated shade control systems are inadequate in managing direct solar radiation, as they fail to provide targeted illumination and protection for specific areas within a building, leading to excessive shade movements and inefficient energy use.
Innovation Solution
An automated shade control system that uses predictive modeling to adjust window shades based on the angles of solar radiation, creating targeted shadows or sunlight patterns, and communicates with building management systems to optimize daylight entry and reduce solar penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated shade control systems use photo sensors to detect visible light entering through windows, then the amount of daylight entering the room can be determined, but the system cannot determine the amount of light on a specific object or area of interest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into multiple photo sensors positioned at different locations and angles within the room. Each sensor targets specific areas or objects, allowing the system to measure light levels on individual objects rather than just general room illumination. This segmentation enables precise targeted measurement while maintaining overall system effectiveness.
2Loss of energy
If current daylight monitoring systems adjust window shades based on general daylight levels, then energy costs can be reduced, but excessive shade movements occur that distract visitors
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different control strategies to different areas by using multiple photo sensors positioned to monitor specific objects or zones. The shade control system adjusts shades based on localized light conditions rather than uniform room-wide conditions. This allows the system to maintain appropriate lighting for artwork or sensitive areas while allowing more natural light in other areas, reducing unnecessary shade movements and improving visitor comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by adjusting shades only when and where needed based on sensor data from specific locations. Rather than uniformly adjusting all shades in response to any light level change, the system selectively adjusts shades in specific zones where objects require protection, minimizing distracting movements while still achieving energy conservation goals.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If window shades are adjusted to protect artwork from direct solar radiation, then the artwork is protected from fading, but natural sunlight that enhances artwork features is also blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses photo sensors to detect the presence and intensity of direct solar radiation, then selectively adjusts shades to block only the harmful direct rays while allowing diffuse natural light to reach the artwork. By identifying and targeting specific harmful light paths, the system converts the potential harm of solar radiation into a controlled situation where protection and enhancement coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts shade positions based on real-time sensor data about sunlight angles and intensities. As the sun moves throughout the day, the system continuously monitors and adjusts shades to block direct radiation while maintaining optimal viewing conditions. This dynamic response allows the system to adapt to changing light conditions and preserve both artwork protection and visual enhancement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple photo sensors are deployed to detect light on specific objects, then targeted illumination control is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a centralized control system that serves multiple functions: it processes data from multiple photo sensors, determines light levels on various objects, makes shade adjustment decisions, and coordinates actuator operations. This universal control system handles all sensing and control tasks through a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the presence of multiple sensors by consolidating intelligence in one location.
Data Source
AI summary
To allow more daylighting and protect against direct solar radiation, the system may include a window shading system that impacts an area (or area of interest). The system may adjust different window shades in different ways and for different periods of time to protect against a direct solar radiation onto an area of interest. The system may provide targeted shadows onto the area of interest. The system may also analyze or predict angles of solar rays that comprise the direct solar radiation and determine an impact of the solar rays on the area of interest, wherein the adjusting of window shades is based on the determining.