Smart Window API Integration 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, requiring improved techniques for communication and integration among 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 between window control systems and other systems like HVAC and lighting, 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 integrated to provide sophisticated control and monitoring, then system functionality and control capability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the building management system into independent modular components (window control system, HVAC system, lighting system, security system), each with its own controller that can operate autonomously while interfacing with others through standardized protocols. This modular architecture allows sophisticated functionality while managing complexity through clear system boundaries and independent operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal communication interfaces and standardized data exchange protocols that allow different building systems to interact through common mechanisms. The window control system can serve multiple functions (controlling windows, coordinating with HVAC, integrating with security) through a unified interface architecture, reducing the need for separate specialized connections for each system interaction.
2Ease of operation
If standardized communication protocols and APIs are implemented for system integration, then ease of operation and interoperability are improved, but initial system setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces standardized communication protocols and API layers as intermediary interfaces between different building systems. These intermediaries translate between various system-specific protocols and a common communication language, enabling seamless interoperability while shielding individual systems from the complexity of direct integrations. The intermediary layer handles protocol translation, data formatting, and communication coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs configurable communication parameters and adaptable data formats that can be adjusted to match different system requirements. The communication interface allows dynamic parameter changes (data formats, transmission protocols, authentication methods) to accommodate various building systems while maintaining a consistent interface standard, thereby simplifying integration without requiring custom solutions for each system pair.
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.