Optically Switchable Device Control for Stable Tint Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Facilities with complex cable networks for wireless and wired connectivity face challenges such as network collapse due to excessive power consumption, signal damping, and inability to penetrate enclosures, making conventional cabling expensive and unsuitable for high-density applications.
Innovation Solution
A control system for optically switchable devices that applies current and voltage profiles to achieve controlled tint transitions, using a control panel with integrated power and data distribution, and a trunk line system to manage multiple devices simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cable networks are used to provide wireless and wired connectivity in facilities, then basic connectivity can be achieved, but the network becomes complex and expensive when scaling to high-density applications with multiple targets and streaming functionalities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cable network into modular units with standardized interfaces. Each network element (switches, access points, endpoints) is divided into independent functional blocks that can be individually managed and scaled. This segmentation allows the network to handle high-density applications by adding modular components rather than redesigning the entire cable infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal cable interfaces and standardized connection protocols that enable a single cable network infrastructure to support multiple types of devices and functionalities simultaneously. The same cable infrastructure can carry data, power, and control signals for diverse targets including sensors, displays, antennas, and audio devices, eliminating the need for separate specialized cabling for each device type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of targets coupled to the cable network increases to support high-density applications, then connectivity coverage is improved, but power consumption becomes excessive causing network collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic power management cycles where cable network elements dynamically adjust power delivery to connected targets. Power is supplied in controlled intervals rather than continuously, with the system monitoring target activity and adjusting power cycles accordingly. This periodic action reduces overall power consumption while maintaining network coverage for multiple targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes power delivery parameters dynamically based on network conditions and target requirements. The system adjusts voltage, current, and power allocation parameters in real-time according to the number of connected targets, their activity levels, and priority assignments. This parameter adaptation allows the network to scale coverage to high-density applications without exceeding power consumption thresholds that would cause network collapse.
3Length of stationary object
If cable networks are extended to cover large facility areas, then connectivity reach is improved, but signal damping increases causing signals to become undecipherable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides long cable runs into shorter segmented sections with active signal regeneration points. Instead of allowing signals to travel through entire facility lengths where damping would degrade them, the network is segmented into manageable sections with repeaters or switches that regenerate and reamplify signals at intermediate points, maintaining signal quality across extended distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary signal boosting devices and active network elements at strategic points throughout the facility. These intermediaries (such as signal amplifiers, repeaters, or active switches) receive weakened signals from distant targets and actively regenerate them to full strength, acting as mediators that overcome the natural damping effects of long cable transmissions and maintain reliable signal quality across large network spans.
4Productivity
If more cable lines and junctions are added to support increased data and power distribution, then network capacity is improved, but the network becomes more extensive and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into unified cable network elements. Single cable lines carry both data and power simultaneously using protocols like Power over Ethernet. Network switches perform multiple functions including data routing, power distribution, and signal regeneration within single devices. This merging allows the network to increase capacity without proportionally increasing the physical extent and complexity of cable infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal cable infrastructure that simultaneously supports multiple types of traffic and devices. The same cable network carries data, electrical power, control signals, and video streams to various targets including computers, displays, audio devices, and wireless access points. This multi-functionality allows high data distribution capacity to be achieved without adding separate specialized cable systems for each function, thereby limiting the growth of network extent and complexity.
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 efficiently manages power and data distribution to multiple optically switchable devices, ensuring seamless tint transitions and reducing network complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a first optically switchable device to transition from an initial tint state to a target tint state
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are techniques for controlling tint transitions. In some embodiments, the technique involves causing a current to be applied to a first optically switchable device for a first duration of time during a controlled current phase, wherein the first duration of time is determined based at least in part on a target charge amount to be provided to the first optically switchable device during the first duration of time. The technique may further involve responsive to the first duration of time elapsing, causing a predetermined voltage profile to be applied to the first optically switchable device, wherein application of the current followed by the predetermined voltage profile cause the first optically switchable device to transition from an initial tint state to a target tint state.