Window Controller PCB for Multi-Protocol Optically Switchable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing controllers for optically switchable windows lack efficient integration with multiple devices and protocols, leading to suboptimal power management and control over lighting conditions, particularly in large-scale building applications.
Innovation Solution
A window controller system comprising a printed circuit board with insulated glass unit controllers and a processing unit, capable of managing various cable types and protocols like G.hn, PoE, and wireless communications, allowing for centralized control and communication with cloud devices for anomaly detection and tint scheduling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a controller manages multiple optically switchable devices with various protocols, then system integration and control capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with multiple communication interfaces including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wired connections, enabling it to support multiple protocols simultaneously. This multi-functional design allows a single controller to manage various optically switchable devices using different communication standards, thereby improving adaptability without requiring separate controllers for each protocol
Solution Approach 2:
The controller architecture is divided into distinct modules, each handling specific communication protocols or device types. This segmentation allows the system to integrate multiple protocol handlers independently, making the overall system more manageable and easier to expand while maintaining organized complexity
2Use of energy by moving object
If centralized control is implemented for multiple devices, then power management efficiency is improved, but communication infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller combines multiple communication capabilities (wireless and wired interfaces) into a single integrated unit that can manage power and data communication for multiple devices. This merging reduces the need for separate communication infrastructures while maintaining efficient centralized power management across all connected optically switchable devices
3Extent of automation
If cloud communication is added for anomaly detection and scheduling, then system intelligence is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic communication with cloud services rather than continuous connection, transmitting data at scheduled intervals or when specific events occur (such as detected anomalies). This periodic action reduces energy consumption from constant communication while maintaining the intelligence and automation capabilities for anomaly detection and tint scheduling
Data Source
AI summary
Window controller systems and methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a window controller system for controlling multiple optically switchable devices comprises a printed circuit board comprising a first plurality of footprints to which a first plurality of components is mounted and a second plurality of footprints, wherein a subset of the second plurality of footprints is populated by a second plurality of components. The first plurality of components may comprise: a plurality of insulated glass unit (IGU) controllers, each configured to control an IGU of a corresponding plurality of IGUs operatively coupled to the window controller system; and a processing unit configured to control each of the plurality of IGU controllers. The second plurality of components may be selected based on a cable type and/or a protocol type used to provide power and data signals to the printed circuit board.