Switchable Window Control Platform for Multi-System Building Coordination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically tintable window systems, such as electrochromic windows, require sophisticated control and monitoring systems as they interact with various building systems, necessitating improved techniques for managing these interactions.
Innovation Solution
A platform that enables communication among multiple interacting systems, including window control systems, HVAC systems, lighting systems, and security systems, through an application programming interface (API), allowing for data exchange and control of optically switchable windows and other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple building systems (HVAC, lighting, security) are integrated with window control systems, then building management capability and energy optimization are improved, but system complexity and difficulty of managing interactions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized communication interface and protocol as an intermediary between the window control system and other building systems (HVAC, lighting, security). This mediator layer enables seamless integration and data exchange without requiring complex point-to-point connections between each system, thus improving building management capability while controlling system complexity.
2Reliability
If sophisticated control and monitoring systems are deployed for smart windows, then window performance and energy efficiency are improved, but installation and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The window control system incorporates self-diagnosis and automated monitoring capabilities that enable the system to detect and report its own status and issues. This self-service approach improves window performance through continuous monitoring while reducing installation and maintenance difficulty by eliminating the need for complex external diagnostic equipment and specialized expertise.
3Productivity
If real-time data exchange between multiple systems is enabled, then coordinated control and energy optimization are improved, but communication infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication protocol and standardized data formats that enable real-time data exchange between the window control system and multiple different building systems (HVAC, lighting, security) through a single integrated interface. This multi-functional communication infrastructure supports diverse data types and control commands while maintaining simplicity and reducing the need for system-specific communication channels.
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
This solution facilitates efficient management and control of building systems, optimizing energy use, comfort, and maintenance by enabling coordinated operation of window tinting, lighting, and HVAC functions based on real-time data and user preferences.
Implementation Method 1
a window control system and one or more other independent systems... controlling functions of a building or other site... optically switchable windows
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
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.