Smart Window Breakage Detection Using Electrical Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security systems for buildings lack effective methods to detect and respond to security events, particularly damage or breakage of tintable smart windows, which are vulnerable to intrusion and require improved detection techniques that leverage the networked aspects of these windows.
Innovation Solution
A method involving measuring current or voltage in optically switchable windows without disrupting their operation, comparing the measurements against expected values, and performing a security action upon detection of damage, including applying perturbations to detect deviations and triggering alerts or adjustments in response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional security systems are used to detect window damage, then security monitoring is provided, but the system complexity increases and the windows' operational state may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The smart window system performs multiple functions using the same electrochromic device: it controls light transmission (optical switching) and simultaneously serves as a security sensor by monitoring electrical characteristics for damage detection. This eliminates the need for separate security systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable security monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The window's electrochromic device monitors its own electrical characteristics (current, voltage, impedance) to detect damage or breakage. The system uses self-diagnosis capabilities by comparing real-time electrical measurements against expected values, enabling the window to autonomously detect security events without external monitoring equipment.
2Reliability
If continuous monitoring of smart windows is implemented, then security detection is improved, but energy consumption increases and window operation is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs security monitoring by periodically measuring electrical characteristics at specific intervals rather than continuously. Measurements are taken during normal window operation cycles (tinting/clearing transitions) and at scheduled check points, providing adequate security detection while minimizing energy consumption associated with monitoring activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors electrical characteristics with sufficient frequency to detect security events reliably, but not at maximum possible frequency. By measuring during routine operational transitions and at strategic intervals, the system achieves adequate security monitoring effectiveness while avoiding excessive energy consumption that would result from continuous high-frequency monitoring.
3Ease of operation
If measurements are taken during window operation, then unobtrusive monitoring is achieved, but measurement precision may be affected by operational variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors electrical characteristics and compares real-time measurements against expected values stored in memory. When deviations exceed predetermined thresholds, the system triggers security alerts. This feedback mechanism maintains measurement precision during operational variations by dynamically adjusting for normal operational ranges while detecting abnormal conditions indicative of damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accounts for parameter changes that occur during normal window operation (such as variations in current and voltage during tinting transitions) by establishing expected value ranges for different operational states. Damage detection precision is maintained by comparing measurements against state-appropriate reference values, allowing unobtrusive monitoring during operation while preserving detection accuracy through contextual parameter adjustment.
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
Enables continuous and unobtrusive monitoring of smart windows for damage, allowing for timely security actions such as alerts or adjustments, enhancing building security without compromising the windows' operational state.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromic devices are sometimes used in optically switchable windows. One well-known electrochromic material, for example, 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
Optically controllable windows and an associated window control system provide a building security platform. A window controller or other processing device can monitor for window breakage, cameras associated with windows can monitor for intruders, and transparent displays can provide alerts regarding detected activity within a building. A window control system can detect deviations from expected UV characteristics of an optically controllable window during normal operation of the window (tint transitions, steady state conditions, etc.) and/or during application of a security-related perturbing event, and provide alerts upon their occurrence.