Smart Window API Platform for Coordinated Building Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing smart windows and interacting building systems lack sophisticated control and monitoring capabilities, necessitating improved communication and coordination between various systems such as window control, HVAC, lighting, and security systems.
Innovation Solution
A platform that enables communication among interacting systems through an application programming interface (API), allowing for data exchange and control operations between window control systems and other systems like HVAC, lighting, and security systems, using window controllers to manage optically switchable windows and integrate with building management systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple building systems (window control, HVAC, lighting, security) are deployed to provide comprehensive building management functionality, then the system capabilities and control features are improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of coordination between systems increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication platform using application programming interfaces (APIs) that enables multiple building systems (window control, HVAC, lighting, security) to interact through a common protocol. This allows each system to maintain its specialized functionality while participating in coordinated building-wide operations through standardized data exchange mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication layer consisting of APIs and data exchange protocols that mediate between different building systems. This intermediary platform translates between system-specific protocols and provides a unified interface for coordinated control, reducing the complexity of direct system-to-system integration.
2Measurement precision
If sophisticated control and monitoring systems are implemented to manage smart windows and building systems, then the control precision and monitoring capabilities are improved, but the difficulty of system integration and communication increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent standardizes communication parameters by defining uniform data formats, protocols, and interface specifications for system interaction. This parameter standardization enables precise monitoring and control data to be exchanged between systems without requiring complex custom integration for each system pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication platform provides universal data exchange capabilities that work across all building systems, allowing sophisticated monitoring and control functions to be implemented through a common interface rather than requiring system-specific integration approaches.
3Ease of operation
If building systems are operated independently without coordination, then the system simplicity and ease of operation are maintained, but the energy efficiency and operational optimization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated coordinated control where building systems automatically adjust their operation based on data from other systems without requiring manual intervention. For example, the system can automatically coordinate window tinting with HVAC operation and lighting control based on occupancy and environmental conditions, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where system performance data is continuously monitored and used to automatically adjust operations. The coordinated control system receives feedback from various sensors and system states, then automatically optimizes energy usage by adjusting window control, HVAC, lighting, and security operations in response to real-time conditions.
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 the ability to control and monitor smart windows and other building systems, optimizing energy use, comfort, and maintenance by enabling coordinated operations and data-driven decision-making across multiple systems.
Implementation Method 1
Electrically tintable windows such as electrochromic windows
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are platforms for communicating among one or more otherwise independent systems involved in controlling functions of buildings or other sites having switchable optical devices deployed therein. Such independent systems include a window control system and one or more other independent systems such as systems that control residential home products (e.g., thermostats, smoke alarms, etc.), HVAC systems, security systems, lighting control systems, and the like. Together the systems control and/or monitor multiple features and/or products, including switchable windows and other infrastructure of a site, which may be a commercial, residential, or public site.