Non-Light-Emitting Variable Transmission Device Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing non-light-emitting variable transmission devices often exhibit non-uniform visible transmittance, making it difficult to achieve consistent glare reduction and sunlight control in buildings, as they are typically controlled using the same voltage and do not account for individual variations in characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for controlling non-light-emitting variable transmission devices by determining and applying unique operating parameters based on characterization data, including voltage and current measurements, to achieve uniform visible transmittance across multiple devices, even when installed in close proximity or as part of a larger glazing system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the same voltage is applied to all non-light-emitting variable transmission devices, then the control system is simple, but the visible transmittance is not uniform across devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system simplicityVSAvoidvisible transmittance uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by determining individual operating parameters for each non-light-emitting variable transmission device based on its specific characterization data. Instead of using a uniform control approach, the system tailors voltage and current parameters to each device's unique properties, ensuring uniform visible transmittance across all devices while maintaining practical control system complexity through automated parameter determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If individual operating parameters are determined for each device based on characterization data, then visible transmittance uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisible transmittance uniformityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by obtaining characterization data for each non-light-emitting variable transmission device before implementing the control system. This preliminary characterization allows the system to pre-determine individual operating parameters, reducing the complexity of real-time control while achieving uniform visible transmittance. The characterization data is collected and processed in advance, enabling simplified operational control during actual use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 approach allows for more precise control of visible transmittance, ensuring uniformity and consistency across multiple devices, improving the appearance and functionality of glazing systems by accounting for individual variations and operational conditions.

Implementation Method 1

A non-light-emitting variable transmission device can reduce glare and the amount of sunlight entering a room

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Data Source

PatentUS11397360B2Apparatus for operating a non-light-emitting variable transmission device and a method of using the same
Publication Date: 2022.07.26 SAGE ELECTROCHROMICS INC
  • US11397360B2 patent drawing
  • US11397360B2 patent drawing
  • US11397360B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method can be used to control the operation of one or more non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices. In an embodiment, a method of operating a plurality of non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices can include receiving requests for requested visible transmittance for the non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices; determining operating parameters for the non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices; and operating the non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices at the operating parameters, wherein the operating parameters for the non-light-emitting, variable transmission devices are different. In another aspect, the method can include operating the non-light-emitting, variable transmission device at a first operating parameter for a time period, wherein the operating parameter corresponds to an intermediate visible transmittance; generating a characterization parameter based at least part on the voltage and current measurements that are obtained during the time period; and controlling the non-light-emitting, variable transmission device period based at least in part on the characterization parameter.