Tintable Window Control Using 3D Glare Models and Schedules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic devices, particularly electrochromic windows, have not realized their full commercial potential due to various issues and have not been effectively integrated into building management systems for efficient energy-saving applications.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for controlling tintable windows using a cloud-based 3D modeling platform to generate glare and reflection models, determine tint states for each zone, and integrate with window controllers to adjust tint levels based on clear sky and weather conditions, utilizing all-solid state inorganic electrochromic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If electrochromic windows are integrated into building management systems with 3D modeling and scheduling, then energy savings are optimized and commercial viability is enhanced, but device complexity and system integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the building into multiple zones with independent tint control, allowing energy optimization to be applied selectively to different areas based on their specific glare and reflection needs, thereby managing complexity through modular zone-based control
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary 3D modeling and glare/reflection analysis during the design phase to pre-determine optimal tint schedules, eliminating the need for complex real-time calculations and reducing operational system complexity while maximizing energy savings
2Measurement precision
If 3D modeling and glare/reflection models are used to determine tint states, then control precision and energy optimization are improved, but computational requirements and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs comprehensive 3D modeling, glare analysis, and reflection modeling during the design phase to pre-calculate optimal tint schedules, eliminating the need for complex real-time computations and reducing processing time during operation while maintaining high precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static tint control to dynamic schedule-based control that adapts to changing environmental conditions, using pre-computed models to enable rapid response without requiring complex real-time calculations
3Productivity
If zone-based tint control is implemented with individual zone optimization, then energy efficiency and glare reduction are improved, but device complexity and control system requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into multiple independently controllable zones, each with its own tint schedule optimized for specific glare and reflection conditions, allowing energy efficiency to be maximized in each zone while managing complexity through modular control
Solution Approach 2:
Each zone receives customized tint control based on its specific orientation, glare sources, and reflection patterns determined through 3D modeling, enabling local optimization of energy efficiency without requiring complex centralized control of the entire building
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
Enables dynamic and efficient control of window tinting to optimize energy savings and reduce glare, enhancing the commercial viability of electrochromic windows by integrating them into building management systems.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in an optical property when placed in a different electronic state, typically by being subjected to a voltage change. The optical property is typically one or more of color, transmittance, absorbance, and reflectance.
Data Source
AI summary
System for controlling tinting of one or more zones of windows in a building based on clear sky models for the building site maintained on a cloud network.