Optically Switchable Window Network for Gigabit Building Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic windows, despite their potential for energy savings, have not realized their full commercial potential due to limitations in high-speed data communication networks that can effectively integrate and control these devices within building systems.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed data communications network is established using trunk line segments and passive circuits, including coaxial cables and directional couplers, to enable efficient signal delivery and control for optically switchable windows, allowing for integration with various devices such as IoT devices and window controllers, facilitating gigabit communication rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic windows are integrated into building systems, then energy management and occupant comfort are enhanced, but high-speed data communication capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The building communication infrastructure is divided into separate functional segments: existing coaxial cable trunk lines for power and control signals, and newly added twisted pair cables dedicated to high-speed data communication. This segmentation allows each subsystem to operate at its optimal performance level without interfering with the other, enabling both EC window control and gigabit data transmission simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
A communication interface device acts as an intermediary between the EC window control system and the high-speed data network. This intermediary translates and bridges signals between the legacy coaxial-based control protocol and modern Ethernet protocols, enabling seamless integration of EC windows into building automation systems while maintaining gigabit data transmission capabilities through the network
2Ease of operation
If existing coaxial cable infrastructure is used for control, then device control capability is maintained, but data transmission rate is limited below gigabit speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges two separate communication infrastructures into a unified building automation solution: the existing coaxial cable system continues to handle EC window control functions, while newly installed twisted pair cables provide gigabit data transmission. Both systems operate concurrently through shared communication interface devices, achieving both device control capability and high-speed data transmission without requiring complete infrastructure replacement
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 network enables efficient control and communication for optically switchable windows, enhancing energy management and occupant comfort by integrating high-speed data transmission and device control within building systems, thereby unlocking the full potential of electrochromic windows.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the passive circuits may be configured to deliver signals via inductive coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A high-speed data communications network in or on a building includes a plurality of trunk line segments serially coupled to each other by a plurality of passive circuits configured to deliver signals to, and to receive signals from, one or more devices on, in, or outside the building, wherein the signals comprise data having a greater than 1 Gpbs transmission rate.