Smart Windows with Integrated Sensors for Security Threat Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrochromic devices in building windows and automotive rearview mirrors lack advanced control systems to effectively respond to security threats or environmental hazards beyond basic settings.
Innovation Solution
A smart window system with integrated sensors and a distributed device network control system architecture that uses electrochromic windows to detect and respond to personal or property security threats, such as intruders or fires, by controlling transmissivity and activating alerts or safety measures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If basic dimmer control or light sensor auto-dim function is used, then the electrochromic device can adjust transmissivity, but the system cannot detect or respond to security threats
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions (transmissivity control, security detection, emergency response, lighting control) into an integrated smart window system. Sensors, processors, and actuators are merged within the window structure itself, allowing the window to function as both a privacy control device and a security monitoring system, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The smart window system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it controls optical transmissivity for privacy, detects security threats through integrated sensors, activates emergency lighting, and provides occupancy detection. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple separate systems, improving security capabilities while managing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If integrated sensors and processors are added to smart windows, then security threat detection is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the smart window into modular functional components: electrochromic layers for transmissivity control, separate sensor modules for detection, processor units for analysis, and actuator components for response. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently before integration, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while enabling advanced security functionality.
3Reliability
If the system controls transmissivity based on security events, then occupant safety is enhanced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic windows use periodic or pulsed actuation rather than continuous operation. When a security event is detected, the window transitions to a specific transmissivity state and maintains it only for the duration of the event. This periodic action significantly reduces energy consumption compared to continuous operation, while still providing effective safety response when needed.
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
The system provides adaptive and interactive control of smart windows to enhance occupant safety and emergency response by detecting security events and adjusting optical transmissivity and lighting accordingly, integrating with other home systems for comprehensive security and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
each smart window of the plurality of smart windows having at least one electrochromic window
Data Source
AI summary
A smart window-based security system is provided. The system includes a plurality of smart windows, each smart window of the plurality of smart windows having at least one electrochromic window and at least one sensor integrated into the smart window. The plurality of smart windows are coupled together in a system having at least one processor configured to detect a personal or property security threat, such as an intruder or fire based, on information from sensors of the plurality of smart windows.