Optically Switchable Window Network for Gigabit Control Signals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic windows have not realized their full commercial potential due to limitations in high-speed data communication and control systems, which hinder their widespread adoption in building designs.
Innovation Solution
A high-speed data communications network is installed in or on a building using trunk line segments and passive circuits, including coaxial cables and directional couplers, to facilitate gigabit data transmission and control of optically switchable windows, integrating devices like IoT, sensors, and 5G components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional communication systems are used with electrochromic windows, then device complexity is reduced, but data transmission speed and control capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional communication network where a single infrastructure supports multiple protocols (CAN bus for window control, Ethernet for high-speed data, WiFi for wireless communication) and multiple device types (windows, sensors, controllers, building management systems). This universal network architecture enables gigabit data transmission while maintaining compatibility with existing electrochromic window control systems, resolving the contradiction between speed improvement and complexity increase.
2Productivity
If high-speed data communication network is implemented, then control capability and data processing bandwidth are improved, but system complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication network is segmented into distinct functional layers: high-speed Ethernet trunk lines for backbone data transmission, CAN bus segments for window controller communication, and wireless WiFi segments for mobile device integration. Each segment operates independently with optimized protocols, allowing gigabit productivity in data processing while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate communication devices including Ethernet switches for high-speed data routing, CAN bus transceivers for protocol conversion, and gateway devices that bridge different communication protocols. These intermediaries enable efficient control and communication between electrochromic windows, sensors, and building management systems without requiring direct complex connections between all components.
3Reliability
If passive circuits and directional couplers are used in the network, then signal delivery capability is improved, but manufacturing and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes passive circuits with specific electrical parameters (inductance values for bias T networks, coupling coefficients for directional couplers) optimized for gigabit Ethernet frequencies. By carefully selecting and standardizing these parameters, the system achieves reliable signal delivery through existing building infrastructure (conduit systems, cable trays) without requiring custom-manufactured components, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of installation.
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.