Disclosed herein are systems, apparatuses, methods, and non-transitory computer readable media related to controlling tint of tintable window(s) that include various predictive modules, and quality assurance related modules.
Methods are provided for fabricating electrochromic devices that mitigate formation of short circuits under a top bus bar without predetermining where top bus bars will be applied on the device. Devices fabricated using such methods may be deactivated under the top bus bar, or may include active material under the top bus bar. Methods of fabricating devices with active material under a top bus bar include depositing a modified top bus bar, fabricating self-healing layers in the electrochromic device, and modifying a top transparent conductive layer of the device prior to applying bus bars.
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor
Thin-film devices, for example electrochromic devices for windows, and methods of manufacturing are described. Particular focus is given to methods of patterning optical devices. Various edge deletion and isolation scribes are performed, for example, to ensure the optical device has appropriate isolation from any edge defects. Methods described herein apply to any thin-film device having one or more material layers sandwiched between two thin film electrical conductor layers. The described methods create novel optical device configurations.
B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
B32B 17/06 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for generating a graphical user interface for providing information and controlling optically switchable windows connected by a network. Windows are graphically represented using interactive smart objects placed within views of the graphical user interface in a manner corresponding to their physical location. A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for associating network IDs of optically switchable windows with the locations at which the windows are installed. Window locations are determined by analyzing received wireless transmissions that are sent from transmitters associated with each of the optically switchable windows. The determined locations are then compared with a representation of the building that provides the window locations. Upon comparison, the network ID of each window, which is communicated through eh window transmissions, is associated with the appropriate window location on the representation of the building.
Prior electrochromic devices frequently suffer from high levels of defectivity. The defects may be manifest as pin holes or spots where the electrochromic transition is impaired. This is unacceptable for many applications such as electrochromic architectural glass. Improved electrochromic devices with low defectivity can be fabricated by depositing certain layered components of the electrochromic device in a single integrated deposition system. While these layers are being deposited and/or treated on a substrate, for example a glass window, the substrate never leaves a controlled ambient environment, for example a low pressure controlled atmosphere having very low levels of particles. These layers may be deposited using physical vapor deposition.
A method of controlling tint of a tintable window to account for occupant comfort in a room of a building. The tintable window is between the interior and exterior of the building. The method predicts a tint level for the tintable window at a future time based on a penetration depth of direct sunlight through the tintable window into the room at the future time and space type in the room. The method also provides instructions over a network to transition tint of the tintable window to the tint level.
A messaging system for exchanging messages between nodes in a network via a broker that uses a publish-subscribe message protocol, which nodes have object identifications (IDs). Messages between the nodes are routed using the object IDs of the nodes. Secure communication is provided using authentication according to digital certificates being used as first and second tiers by a commissioning broker and a data broker, respectively, in which the second tier certificate used by the data broker has a shorter lived expiration time.
Controllers and control methods apply a drive voltage to bus bars of a thin film optically switchable device. The applied drive voltage is provided at a level that drives a transition over the entire surface of the optically switchable device but does not damage or degrade the device. This applied voltage produces an effective voltage at all locations on the face of the device that is within a bracketed range. The upper bound of this range is associated with a voltage safely below the level at which the device may experience damage or degradation impacting its performance in the short term or the long term. At the lower boundary of this range is an effective voltage at which the transition between optical states of the device occurs relatively rapidly. The level of voltage applied between the bus bars is significantly greater than the maximum value of the effective voltage within the bracketed range.
Methods of manufacturing electrochromic windows are described. An electrochromic device is fabricated to substantially cover a glass sheet, for example float glass, and a cutting pattern is defined based on one or more low-defectivity areas in the device from which one or more electrochromic panes are cut. Laser scribes and/or bus bars may be added prior to cutting the panes or after. Edge deletion can also be performed prior to or after cutting the electrochromic panes from the glass sheet. Insulated glass units (IGUs) are fabricated from the electrochromic panes and optionally one or more of the panes of the IGU are strengthened.
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
G02B 1/14 - Protective coatings, e.g. hard coatings
Techniques for transceiving radio frequency (RF) signals through a window of a building are disclosed, the window having a first surface facing an interior of the building. An antenna arrangement is attached to a building structure adjacent the first surface and the antenna arrangement includes one or more radiating elements configured to transceive the RF signals through the window. In some embodiments, the building structure is mullion. In some embodiments a window surface includes an electrochromic and/or low emissivity coating that is excluded from a region proximate to the radiating elements.
H01Q 21/06 - Arrays of individually energised antenna units similarly polarised and spaced apart
H01Q 21/24 - Combinations of antenna units polarised in different directions for transmitting or receiving circularly and elliptically polarised waves or waves linearly polarised in any direction
11.
TEMPERATURE AND THERMAL COMFORT MAPPING OF AN ENCLOSED ENVIRONMENT
Changing environmental characteristics of an enclosure are controlled to promote thermal comfort, health, wellness, and/or performance for occupant(s) of the enclosure using sensor data, three-dimensional modeling, physical properties of the enclosure, and machine learning (e.g., Artificial Intelligence).
A site monitoring system (SMS) may analyze information from one or more sites to determine when a device, a sensor, a controller, or other structure or component associated with a network of optically switchable devices has a problem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meet the customer's goals. In various embodiments, the system updates a memory component associated with one or more optically switchable windows and/or controllers. The memory component may be updated to reflect an updated control algorithm and/or associated parameters in some cases.
In one aspect, an apparatus is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device is arranged over the second surface that includes a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first and the second conductive layers. The apparatus further includes at least one conductive antenna structure arranged over the second surface.
Certain aspects pertain to methods of fabricating an optical device on a substantially transparent substrate that include a pre-deposition operation that removes a width of lower conductor layer at a distance from the outer edge of the substrate to form a pad at the outer edge. The pad and any deposited layers of the optical device may be removed in a post edge deletion operation.
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
B32B 37/14 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers
B32B 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
B32B 38/10 - Removing layers, or parts of layers, mechanically or chemically
A site monitoring system may analyze information from sites to determine when a device, a sensor, a controller, or other structure associated with optically switchable devices has a problem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meet the customer's goals.
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project managementEnterprise or organisation planningEnterprise or organisation modelling
This disclosure relates generally to optically-switchable devices, and more particularly, to systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling optically-switchable devices. In some implementations, the apparatus includes an interface for communicating with window controllers, and the apparatus includes one or more processors. A processor can be configured to cause status information received from a window controller to be processed. The status information can indicate at least a tint status of one or more optically-switchable devices controlled by the window controller. In response to receiving the status information, one or more tint commands can be sent via the interface to the window controller.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
H02M 3/158 - Conversion of DC power input into DC power output without intermediate conversion into AC by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
This disclosure provides spacers for smart windows. In one aspect, a window assembly includes a first substantially transparent substrate having an optically switchable device on a surface of the first substrate. The optically switchable device includes electrodes. A first electrode of the electrodes has a length about the length of a side of the optically switchable device. The window assembly further includes a second substantially transparent substrate a metal spacer between the first and the second substrates. The metal spacer has a substantially rectangular cross section, with one side of the metal spacer including a recess configured to accommodate the length of the first electrode such that there is no contact between the first electrode and the metal spacer. A primary seal material bonds the first substrate to the metal spacer and bonds the second substrate to the metal spacer.
G02F 1/161 - GasketsSpacersSealing of cellsFilling or closing of cells
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
Antenna systems for controlled coverage in buildings are disclosed where a data communications network in a building includes one or more external antennas. At least one of the external antennas is disposed on a roof or exterior of the building disposed in or associated with a window, a sky sensor or a digital architectural element. The one or more external antennas are coupled to a network infrastructure of the building via one or more data carrying lines and/or wireless links and are configured for communication with an external wireless network. The network infrastructure includes one or more data carrying lines, one or more network switches, and at least one control panel. In some embodiments, at least one of the external antennas is configured for communication with an external wireless network.
Various embodiments herein relate to carriers for supporting one or more substrate as the substrates are passed through a processing apparatus. In many cases, the substrates are oriented in a vertical manner. The carrier may include a frame and vertical support bars that secure the glass to the frame. The carrier may lack horizontal support bars. The carrier may allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the substrates, without any need to provide precise gaps between adjacent pairs of substrates. The carriers described herein substantially reduce the risk of breaking the processing apparatus and substrates, thereby achieving a more efficient process. Certain embodiments herein relate to methods of loading substrates onto a carrier.
C23C 14/56 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coatingArrangements for maintaining the vacuum, e.g. vacuum locks
H01L 21/673 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components using specially adapted carriers
H01L 21/677 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components for conveying, e.g. between different work stations
21.
CALIBRATION OF ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS IN OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE WINDOWS
The embodiments herein relate to methods for controlling an optical transition and the ending tint state of an optically switchable device, and optically switchable devices configured to perform such methods. In various embodiments, non-optical (e.g., electrical) feedback is used to help control an optical transition. The feedback may be used for a number of different purposes. In many implementations, the feedback is used to control an ongoing optical transition. In some embodiments a transfer function is used calibrate optical drive parameters to control the tinting state of optically switching devices.
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/00 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G02F 1/166 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on translational movement of particles in a fluid under the influence of an applied field characterised by the electro-optical or magneto-optical effect
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations.
This disclosure describes insulated glass units (IGUs) that incorporate electrochromic devices. More specifically, this disclosure focuses on different configurations available for providing an electrical connection to the interior region of an IGU. In many cases, an IGU includes two panes separated by a spacer. The spacer defines an interior region of the IGU and an exterior region of the IGU. Often, the electrochromic device positioned on the pane does not extend past the spacer, and some electrical connection must be provided to supply power from the exterior of the IGU to the electrochromic device on the interior of the IGU. In some embodiments, the spacer includes one or more holes (e.g, channels, mouse holes, other holes, etc.) through which an electrical connection (e.g., wires, busbar leads, etc.) may pass to provide power to the electrochromic device.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
A system and a computer-implemented method of managing building wellness. The method may include the steps of: obtaining wellness parameters for a building (e.g., an office building) having an occupant(s); processing the wellness parameter to determine a current wellness index for the building and, based on the current wellness index, sending a message regarding the current wellness index to a recipient(s) (e.g., a building occupant), displaying the current wellness index for a user(s), and/or identifying a remediation action(s) to improve the current wellness index.
G16H 40/20 - ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilitiesICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities, e.g. managing hospital staff or surgery rooms
G16H 10/60 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records
G16H 15/00 - ICT specially adapted for medical reports, e.g. generation or transmission thereof
G16H 50/30 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for calculating health indicesICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for individual health risk assessment
In one aspect, an apparatus is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device (ECD) is arranged over the second surface that includes a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first and the second conductive layers. The apparatus further includes at least one conductive antenna structure arranged over the second surface.
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 7/28 - Other arrangements on doors or windows, e.g. door-plates, windows adapted to carry plants, hooks for window cleaners
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
Aspects of this disclosure concern controllers and control methods for applying a drive voltage to bus bars of optically switchable devices such as electrochromic devices. Such devices are often provided on windows such as architectural glass. In certain embodiments, the applied drive voltage is controlled in a manner that efficiently drives an optical transition over the entire surface of the electrochromic device. The drive voltage is controlled to account for differences in effective voltage experienced in regions between the bus bars and regions proximate the bus bars. Regions near the bus bars experience the highest effective voltage.
G02F 1/1516 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising organic material
G02F 1/157 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. reflectors or illuminating devices
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
Various implementations relate generally to multi-sensor devices. Some implementations more particularly relate to a multi-sensor device including a ring of radially-oriented photosensors. Some implementations more particularly relate to a multi-sensor device that is orientation-independent with respect to a central axis of the ring. Some implementations of the multi-sensor devices described herein further include one or more additional sensors. For example, some implementations include an axially-directed photosensor. Some implementations also can include one or more temperature sensors configured to sense an exterior temperature, for example, an ambient temperature of an outdoors environment around the multi-sensor. Additionally or alternatively, some implementations include one or more of an infrared sensor or infrared sensors, a cellular communication circuit, and a GPS module.
Methods are provided for fabricating electrochromic devices that mitigate formation of short circuits under a top bus bar without predetermining where top bus bars will be applied on the device. Devices fabricated using such methods may be deactivated under the top bus bar, or may include active material under the top bus bar. Methods of fabricating devices with active material under a top bus bar include depositing a modified top bus bar, fabricating self-healing layers in the electrochromic device, and modifying a top transparent conductive layer of the device prior to applying bus bars.
Methods and systems for determining tint of at least one tintable window when the outside temperature is greater than a first threshold and/or less than a second threshold value.
A digital interface allows a content manager and/or content provider to couple to an interactive device (e.g., transparent media display coupled to a tintable window) in a facility, and engage with target personnel in a digital experience. The content may be personalized for the target personnel interacting with the interactive device, and may include a message such as an advertisement.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G09F 19/22 - Advertising or display means on roads, walls or similar surfaces, e.g. illuminated
G09G 3/34 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H02J 50/20 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using microwaves or radio frequency waves
H02J 50/80 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving the exchange of data, concerning supply or distribution of electric power, between transmitting devices and receiving devices
H04K 3/00 - Jamming of communicationCounter-measures
Embodiments described include bus bars for electrochromic or other optical state changing devices. The bus bars are configured to color match and/or provide minimal optical contrast with their surrounding environment in the optical device. Such bus bars may be transparent bus bars.
G02F 1/157 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. reflectors or illuminating devices
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
G02F 1/1345 - Conductors connecting electrodes to cell terminals
Conventional electrochromic devices frequently suffer from poor reliability and poor performance. Improvements are made using entirely solid and inorganic materials. Electrochromic devices are fabricated by forming an ion conducting electronically insulating interfacial region that serves as an IC layer. In some methods, the interfacial region is formed after formation of an electrochromic and a counter electrode layer, which are in direct contact with one another. The interfacial region contains an ion conducting electronically insulating material along with components of the electrochromic and/or the counter electrode layer. Materials and microstructure of the electrochromic devices provide improvements in performance and reliability over conventional devices. In addition to the improved electrochromic devices and methods for fabrication, integrated deposition systems for forming such improved devices are also disclosed.
G02F 1/1506 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect based on electrodeposition, e.g. electrolytic deposition of an inorganic material on or close to an electrode
The embodiments herein relate to electrochromic stacks, electrochromic devices, and methods and apparatus for making such stacks and devices. In various embodiments, an anodically coloring layer in an electrochromic stack or device is fabricated to include nickel tungsten tantalum oxide (NiWTaO). This material is particularly beneficial in that it is very transparent in its clear state.
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
B23K 20/10 - Non-electric welding by applying impact or other pressure, with or without the application of heat, e.g. cladding or plating making use of vibrations, e.g. ultrasonic welding
C03C 17/34 - Surface treatment of glass, e.g. of devitrified glass, not in the form of fibres or filaments, by coating with at least two coatings having different compositions
C23C 10/28 - Solid state diffusion of only metal elements or silicon into metallic material surfaces using solids, e.g. powders, pastes
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
Embodiments described include bus bars for electrochromic or other optical state changing devices. The bus bars are configured to color match and/or provide minimal optical contrast with their surrounding environment in the optical device. Such bus bars may be transparent bus bars.
Controllers and control methods apply a drive voltage to bus bars of a thin film optically switchable device. The applied drive voltage is provided at a level that drives a transition over the entire surface of the optically switchable device but does not damage or degrade the device. This applied voltage produces an effective voltage at all locations on the face of the device that is within a bracketed range. The upper bound of this range is associated with a voltage safely below the level at which the device may experience damage or degradation impacting its performance in the short term or the long term. At the lower boundary of this range is an effective voltage at which the transition between optical states of the device occurs relatively rapidly. The level of voltage applied between the bus bars is significantly greater than the maximum value of the effective voltage within the bracketed range.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
The embodiments herein relate to electrochromic stacks, electrochromic devices, and methods and apparatus for making such stacks and devices. In various embodiments, an anodically coloring layer in an electrochromic stack or device is fabricated to include nickel-tungsten-niobium-oxide (NiWNbO). This material is particularly beneficial in that it is very transparent in its clear state.
G02F 1/1506 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect based on electrodeposition, e.g. electrolytic deposition of an inorganic material on or close to an electrode
G02F 1/1514 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material
Disclosed are platforms for communicating among one or more otherwise independent systems involved in controlling functions of buildings or other sites having switchable optical devices deployed therein. Such independent systems include a window control system and one or more other independent systems such as systems that control residential home products (e.g., thermostats, smoke alarms, etc.), HVAC systems, security systems, lighting control systems, and the like. Together the systems control and/or monitor multiple features and/or products, including switchable windows and other infrastructure of a site, which may be a commercial, residential, or public site.
Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations. Also described are self-meshing networks for electrochromic windows.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
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.
A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for generating a graphical user interface for providing information and controlling optically switchable windows connected by a network. Windows are graphically represented using interactive smart objects placed within views of the graphical user interface in a manner corresponding to their physical location. A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for associating network IDs of optically switchable windows with the locations at which the windows are installed. Window locations are determined by analyzing received wireless transmissions that are sent from transmitters associated with each of the optically switchable windows. The determined locations are then compared with a representation of the building that provides the window locations. Upon comparison, the network ID of each window, which is communicated through eh window transmissions, is associated with the appropriate window location on the representation of the building.
Various embodiments herein relate to systems for powering electrochromic windows in a building. Systems may include photovoltaic panels configured to generate electrical power, energy storage device(s) configured for storing generated power, and one or more controllers on a network of electrochromic windows that are configured to receive power from the energy storage device(s) and power tint transitions in one or more electrochromic windows. Systems may include various additional circuit components described herein for regulating and/or controlling the generation, storage, and application of electric power. The systems and techniques described herein can be used to design networks of electrochromic windows that are hybrid-solar or off-the-grid (“OTG”).
The present disclosure describes a facility (e.g., home) control system using a community of components (e.g., comprising one or more sensors, emitters and/or transceivers) that are configured to locate at least a portion of its members and control one or more devices of the facility.
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Consulting services in the field of installation of building automation equipment Providing temporary use of non-downloadable computer programs for monitoring and controlling building digital systems, for providing building and operational technology management, for providing cybersecurity for operating technology and Internet of Things devices, for operating an interactive computing environment, for automating electrical power, building systems, data services, high speed communications and occupant comfort, wellness and productivity, for displaying virtual computer screens, for accessing, navigating and displaying content, for enterprise asset management, for monitoring, detection, analysis, response and resolution of infrastructure issues, for voice recognition, natural language processing, machine learning and building artificial intelligence, for adjusting and controlling insulated glass units, for managing, operating, connecting and securing Internet of Things electronic devices, for interfacing with remote devices, for allowing connectivity and device management, for planning, managing and integrating building systems comprised of lighting, climate control, multimedia and security systems and for planning, configuring and adjusting atmosphere of interior environments; Remote monitoring of the functioning and use of building automation equipment, namely, building security systems in the nature of security cameras, security alarms, motion detectors, door access control systems, building energy consumption and air quality sensors, and building commissioning and maintenance systems in the nature of HVAC units, generators, air conditioners, electrical meters and electrical controls, lighting fixtures and lighting controls, appliances, plumbing equipment and plumbing controls, fire and life safety systems, vertical transportation, remote management of the information technology (IT) systems of others related to building automation, and troubleshooting in the nature of diagnosing problems with building automation systems of others; Technology consulting in the field of building automation
Thin-film devices, for example electrochromic devices for windows, and methods of manufacturing are described. Particular focus is given to methods of patterning optical devices. Various edge deletion and isolation scribes are performed, for example, to ensure the optical device has appropriate isolation from any edge defects. Methods described herein apply to any thin-film device having one or more material layers sandwiched between two thin film electrical conductor layers. The described methods create novel optical device configurations.
B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
B32B 17/06 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
A method of controlling tint of a tintable window to account for occupant comfort in a room of a building. The tintable window is between the interior and exterior of the building. The method predicts a tint level for the tintable window at a future time based on a penetration depth of direct sunlight through the tintable window into the room at the future time and space type in the room. The method also provides instructions over a network to transition tint of the tintable window to the tint level.
A method of controlling tint of a tintable window to account for occupant comfort in a room of a building. The tintable window is between the interior and exterior of the building. The method predicts a tint level for the tintable window at a future time based on a penetration depth of direct sunlight through the tintable window into the room at the future time and space type in the room. The method also provides instructions over a network to transition tint of the tintable window to the tint level.
Methods are described for the commissioning of optically switchable window networks. During commissioning, network addresses are paired with the locations of installed devices for components on a window network. Commissioning may also involve steps of testing and validating the network devices. By correctly pairing the location of a device with its network address, a window network is configured to function such that controls sent over the network reach their targeted device(s) which in turn respond accordingly. The methods described herein may reduce frustrations that result from mispairing and installation issues that are common to conventional commissioning practices. Commissioning may involve recording a response to a manually or automatically initiated trigger. Commissioning methods described herein may rely on user input, or be automatic, not requiring user input.
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Providing temporary use of non-downloadable computer programs for providing building and operational technology management,
for enterprise asset management and for monitoring, detection, analysis, response and resolution of infrastructure issues;
Providing temporary use of non-downloadable artificial intelligence assistant software for voice recognition, natural language
processing, machine learning and building artificial intelligence platforms, all of the foregoing for use in connection with the field of
building automation and building and operational technology management
50.
POWER DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS FOR ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES
Various embodiments herein relate to power distribution networks for optically switchable windows. In some embodiments, a system for monitoring and maintaining a power distribution network of optically switchable windows of a site is provided. The system includes a control panel monitor which is configured to determine a control panel voltage and current at a terminal of a control panel. The system further includes sense circuitry which is configured to determine a first window controller voltage and current for a first window controller of a plurality of window controllers. The system further includes one or more controllers which are configured to generate voltage network data based on a combination of the control panel voltage and current and the first window controller voltage and current. The system then determines an error condition in the power distribution network based on the voltage network data.
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the networkCircuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
Controllers and control methods apply a drive voltage to bus bars of a thin film optically switchable device. The applied drive voltage is provided at a level that drives a transition over the entire surface of the optically switchable device but does not damage or degrade the device. This applied voltage produces an effective voltage at all locations on the face of the device that is within a bracketed range. The upper bound of this range is associated with a voltage safely below the level at which the device may experience damage or degradation impacting its performance in the short term or the long term. At the lower boundary of this range is an effective voltage at which the transition between optical states of the device occurs relatively rapidly. The level of voltage applied between the bus bars is significantly greater than the maximum value of the effective voltage within the bracketed range.
Methods of manufacturing electrochromic windows are described. An electrochromic device is fabricated to substantially cover a glass sheet, for example float glass, and a cutting pattern is defined based on one or more low-defectivity areas in the device from which one or more electrochromic panes are cut. Laser scribes and/or bus bars may be added prior to cutting the panes or after. Edge deletion can also be performed prior to or after cutting the electrochromic panes from the glass sheet. Insulated glass units (IGUs) are fabricated from the electrochromic panes and optionally one or more of the panes of the IGU are strengthened.
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
G02B 1/14 - Protective coatings, e.g. hard coatings
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
G02F 1/03 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on ceramics or electro-optical crystals, e.g. exhibiting Pockels or Kerr effect
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G02F 1/161 - GasketsSpacersSealing of cellsFilling or closing of cells
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H04N 9/16 - Picture reproducers using cathode ray tubes
53.
Controlling transitions in optically switchable devices
Aspects of this disclosure concern controllers and control methods for applying a drive voltage to bus bars of optically switchable devices such as electrochromic devices. Such devices are often provided on windows such as architectural glass. In certain embodiments, the applied drive voltage is controlled in a manner that efficiently drives an optical transition over the entire surface of the electrochromic device. The drive voltage is controlled to account for differences in effective voltage experienced in regions between the bus bars and regions proximate the bus bars. Regions near the bus bars experience the highest effective voltage. In some cases, feedback may be used to monitor an optical transition. In these or other cases, a group of optically switchable devices may transition together over a particular duration to achieve approximately uniform tint states over time during the transition.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
54.
Controlling transitions in optically switchable devices
This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus for controlling transitions in an optically switchable device. In one aspect, a controller for a tintable window may include a processor, an input for receiving output signals from sensors, and instructions for causing the processor to determine a level of tint of the tintable window, and an output for controlling the level of tint in the tintable window. The instructions may include a relationship between the received output signals and the level of tint, with the relationship employing output signals from an exterior photosensor, an interior photosensor, an occupancy sensor, an exterior temperature sensor, and a transmissivity sensor. In some instances, the controller may receive output signals over a network and/or be interfaced with a network, and in some instances, the controller may be a standalone controller that is not interfaced with a network.
This disclosure relates generally to optically-switchable devices, and more particularly, to systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling optically-switchable devices. In some implementations, the apparatus includes an interface for communicating with window controllers, and the apparatus includes one or more processors. A processor can be configured to cause status information received from a window controller to be processed. The status information can indicate at least a tint status of one or more optically-switchable devices controlled by the window controller. In response to receiving the status information, one or more tint commands can be sent via the interface to the window controller.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
H02M 3/158 - Conversion of DC power input into DC power output without intermediate conversion into AC by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
A tintable window is described having a tintable coating, e.g., an electrochromic device coating, for regulating light transmitted through the window. In some embodiments, the window has a transparent display in the window's viewable region. Transparent displays may be substantially transparent when not in use, or when the window is viewed in a direction facing away from the transparent display. Windows may have sensors for receiving user commands and/or for monitoring environmental conditions. Transparent displays can display graphical user interfaces to, e.g., control window functions. Windows, as described herein, offer an alternative display to conventional projectors, TVs, and monitors. Windows may also be configured to receive, transmit, or block wireless communications from passing through the window. A window control system may share computational resources between controllers (e.g., at different windows). In some cases, the computational resources of the window control system are utilized by other building systems and devices.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G09F 19/22 - Advertising or display means on roads, walls or similar surfaces, e.g. illuminated
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H02J 50/20 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using microwaves or radio frequency waves
H02J 50/80 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving the exchange of data, concerning supply or distribution of electric power, between transmitting devices and receiving devices
Thin-film devices, for example electrochromic devices for windows, and methods of manufacturing are described. Particular focus is given to methods of patterning optical devices. Various edge deletion and isolation scribes are performed, for example, to ensure the optical device has appropriate isolation from any edge defects. Methods described herein apply to any thin-film device having one or more material layers sandwiched between two thin film electrical conductor layers. The described methods create novel optical device configurations.
B23K 26/0622 - Shaping the laser beam, e.g. by masks or multi-focusing by direct control of the laser beam by shaping pulses
B23K 26/08 - Devices involving relative movement between laser beam and workpiece
B23K 26/082 - Scanning systems, i.e. devices involving movement of the laser beam relative to the laser head
B23K 26/361 - Removing material for deburring or mechanical trimming
B23K 26/38 - Removing material by boring or cutting
B23K 26/402 - Removing material taking account of the properties of the material involved involving non-metallic material, e.g. isolators
B23K 26/57 - Working by transmitting the laser beam through or within the workpiece the laser beam entering a face of the workpiece from which it is transmitted through the workpiece material to work on a different workpiece face, e.g. for effecting removal, fusion splicing, modifying or reforming
B32B 17/06 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance
C03B 33/07 - Cutting armoured or laminated glass products
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
This disclosure provides a window controller that includes a command-voltage generator that generates a command voltage signal, and a pulse-width-modulated-signal generator that generates a pulse-width-modulated signal based on the command voltage signal. The pulse-width-modulated signal drives an optically-switchable device. The pulse-width-modulated signal comprises a first power component having a first duty cycle and a second power component having a second duty cycle. The first component delivers a first pulse during each active portion of the first duty cycle, and the second component delivers a second pulse during each active portion of the second duty cycle. The first pulses are applied to a first conductive layer and the second pulses are applied to a second conductive layer. The relative durations of the active portions and the relative durations of the first and second pulses are adjusted to result in a change in an effective DC voltage applied across the optically-switchable device.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
This disclosure provides connectors for smart windows. A smart window may incorporate an optically switchable pane. In one aspect, a window unit includes an insulated glass unit including an optically switchable pane. A wire assembly may be attached to the edge of the insulated glass unit and may include wires in electrical communication with electrodes of the optically switchable pane. A floating connector may be attached to a distal end of the wire assembly. The floating connector may include a flange and a nose, with two holes in the flange for affixing the floating connector to a first frame. The nose may include a terminal face that present two exposed contacts of opposite polarity. Pre-wired spacers improve fabrication efficiency and seal integrity of insulated glass units. Electrical connection systems include those embedded in the secondary seal of the insulated glass unit.
This disclosure relates generally to optically switchable devices, and more particularly, to methods for controlling optically switchable devices. In various embodiments, one or more optically switchable devices may be controlled via voice control and/or gesture control.
G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G06F 3/04883 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures for inputting data by handwriting, e.g. gesture or text
G06F 3/04886 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures by partitioning the display area of the touch-screen or the surface of the digitising tablet into independently controllable areas, e.g. virtual keyboards or menus
61.
PARTICLE REMOVAL DURING FABRICATION OF ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES
Electrochromic devices are fabricated using a particle removal operation that reduces the occurrence of electronically conducting layers and/or electrochromically active layers from contacting layers of the opposite polarity and creating a short circuit in regions where defects form. In some embodiments, the particle removal operation is not a lithiation operation. In some embodiments, the particle removal operation is performed at an intermediate stage during the deposition of either an electrochromic layer or a counter electrode layer.
Data from measurements is used in conjunction with a learning module to identify and predict tintable window malfunctions. The measurements can be based at least in part on data accumulated during regular operation of a tintable window.
G06Q 10/20 - Administration of product repair or maintenance
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G06Q 10/087 - Inventory or stock management, e.g. order filling, procurement or balancing against orders
A method of controlling tint of a tintable window to account for occupant comfort in a room of a building. The tintable window is between the interior and exterior of the building. The method predicts a tint level for the tintable window at a future time based on lighting received through the tintable window into the room at the future time and space type in the room. The method also provides instructions over a network to transition tint of the tintable window to the tint level.
Various embodiments herein relate to networks of electrochromic windows. The networks may be configured in particular ways to minimize the likelihood that the windows on the network draw more power than can be provided. The network may include particular hardware components that provide additional power to windows as needed. The network may also be configured to adjust how the windows therein transition to prevent overloading the network. The techniques described herein can be used to design networks of electrochromic windows that are undersized when considering the amount of power that would be needed to simultaneously transition all the windows on the network using normal transition parameters, while still allowing simultaneous transitions to occur.
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H04L 67/125 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks involving control of end-device applications over a network
65.
Pretreatment of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films for improved electrical contact
Certain embodiments relate to optical devices and methods of fabricating optical devices that pre-treat a sub-layer to enable selective removal of the pre-treated sub-layer and overlying layers. Other embodiments pertain to methods of fabricating an optical device that apply a sacrificial material layer.
A site monitoring system (SMS) may analyze information from one or more sites to determine when a device, a sensor, a controller, or other structure or component associated with a network of optically switchable devices has a problem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meet the customer's goals. In various embodiments, the system updates a memory component associated with one or more optically switchable windows and/or controllers. The memory component may be updated to reflect an updated control algorithm and/or associated parameters in some cases.
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.
H01R 24/40 - Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure having concentrically or coaxially arranged contacts specially adapted for high frequency
Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations.
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
G02F 1/03 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on ceramics or electro-optical crystals, e.g. exhibiting Pockels or Kerr effect
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G02F 1/161 - GasketsSpacersSealing of cellsFilling or closing of cells
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04N 9/16 - Picture reproducers using cathode ray tubes
Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations. Also described are self-meshing networks for electrochromic windows.
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations. Also described are self-meshing networks for electrochromic windows.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
A site monitoring system may analyze information from sites to determine when a device, a sensor, a controller, or other structure associated with optically switchable devices has a problem. The system may, if appropriate, act on the problem. In certain embodiments, the system learns customer/user preferences and adapts its control logic to meet the customer's goals.
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project managementEnterprise or organisation planningEnterprise or organisation modelling
Electrochromic devices and methods may employ the addition of a defect-mitigating insulating layer which prevents electronically conducting layers and/or electrochromically active layers from contacting layers of the opposite polarity and creating a short circuit in regions where defects form. In some embodiments, an encapsulating layer is provided to encapsulate particles and prevent them from ejecting from the device stack and risking a short circuit when subsequent layers are deposited. The insulating layer may have an electronic resistivity of between about 1 and 108 Ohm-cm. In some embodiments, the insulating layer contains one or more of the following metal oxides: aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, silicon aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten oxide, and oxidized indium tin oxide. Carbides, nitrides, oxynitrides, and oxycarbides may also be used.
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
C23C 14/06 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material characterised by the coating material
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
C23C 14/02 - Pretreatment of the material to be coated
H01B 5/14 - Non-insulated conductors or conductive bodies characterised by their form comprising conductive layers or films on insulating-supports
G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering
This disclosure relates generally to optically-switchable devices, and more particularly, to systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling optically-switchable devices. In some implementations, an apparatus for controlling one or more optically-switchable devices includes a processing unit, a voltage regulator and a polarity switch. The processing unit can generate: a command voltage signal based on a target optical state of an optically-switchable device, and a polarity control signal. The voltage regulator can receive power at a first voltage and increase or decrease a magnitude of the first voltage based on the command voltage signal to provide a DC voltage signal at a regulated voltage. A polarity switch can receive the DC voltage signal at the regulated voltage to maintain or reverse a polarity of the DC voltage signal based on the polarity control signal. The polarity switch can output the DC voltage signal at the regulated voltage and at the polarity based on the polarity control signal to power the optically-switchable device. In some other implementations, the apparatus includes a processing unit, an energy storage device, and first and second voltage regulators.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
H02M 3/158 - Conversion of DC power input into DC power output without intermediate conversion into AC by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
Electrochromic devices and methods may employ the addition of a defect-mitigating insulating layer which prevents electronically conducting layers and/or electrochromically active layers from contacting layers of the opposite polarity and creating a short circuit in regions where defects form. In some embodiments, an encapsulating layer is provided to encapsulate particles and prevent them from ejecting from the device stack and risking a short circuit when subsequent layers are deposited. The insulating layer may have an electronic resistivity of between about 1 and 108 Ohm-cm. In some embodiments, the insulating layer contains one or more of the following metal oxides: aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, tin oxide, silicon aluminum oxide, cerium oxide, tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten oxide, and oxidized indium tin oxide. Carbides, nitrides, oxynitrides, and oxycarbides may also be used.
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
H01J 37/34 - Gas-filled discharge tubes operating with cathodic sputtering
75.
Mitigating defects in an electrochromic device under a bus bar
Methods are provided for fabricating electrochromic devices that mitigate formation of short circuits under a top bus bar without predetermining where top bus bars will be applied on the device. Devices fabricated using such methods may be deactivated under the top bus bar, or may include active material under the top bus bar. Methods of fabricating devices with active material under a top bus bar include depositing a modified top bus bar, fabricating self-healing layers in the electrochromic device, and modifying a top transparent conductive layer of the device prior to applying bus bars.
Methods are described for the commissioning of optically switchable window networks. During commissioning, network addresses are paired with the locations of installed devices for components on a window network. Commissioning may also involve steps of testing and validating the network devices. By correctly pairing the location of a device with its network address, a window network is configured to function such that controls sent over the network reach their targeted device(s) which in turn respond accordingly. The methods described herein may reduce frustrations that result from mispairing and installation issues that are common to conventional commissioning practices. Commissioning may involve recording a response to a manually or automatically initiated trigger. Commissioning methods described herein may rely on user input, or be automatic, not requiring user input.
G02F 1/03 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on ceramics or electro-optical crystals, e.g. exhibiting Pockels or Kerr effect
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
H04N 9/16 - Picture reproducers using cathode ray tubes
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G06F 3/04847 - Interaction techniques to control parameter settings, e.g. interaction with sliders or dials
Various embodiments herein relate to electrochromic devices and electrochromic device precursors, as well as methods and apparatus for fabricating such electrochromic devices and electrochromic device precursors. In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device or precursor may include one or more particular materials such as a particular electrochromic material and/or a particular counter electrode material. In various implementations, the electrochromic material includes tungsten titanium molybdenum oxide. In these or other implementation, the counter electrode material may include nickel tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten tantalum oxide, nickel tungsten niobium oxide, nickel tungsten tin oxide, or another material.
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
C09K 9/00 - Tenebrescent materials, i.e. materials for which the range of wavelengths for energy absorption is changed as a result of excitation by some form of energy
C23C 14/56 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coatingArrangements for maintaining the vacuum, e.g. vacuum locks
F21V 14/00 - Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements
G02F 1/1506 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect based on electrodeposition, e.g. electrolytic deposition of an inorganic material on or close to an electrode
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
G02F 1/157 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. reflectors or illuminating devices
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G02F 1/1514 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material
78.
Mitigating defects in an electrochromic device under a bus bar
Methods are provided for fabricating electrochromic devices that mitigate formation of short circuits under a top bus bar without predetermining where top bus bars will be applied on the device. Devices fabricated using such methods may be deactivated under the top bus bar, or may include active material under the top bus bar. Methods of fabricating devices with active material under a top bus bar include depositing a modified top bus bar, fabricating self-healing layers in the electrochromic device, and modifying a top transparent conductive layer of the device prior to applying bus bars.
B32B 17/10 - Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or fibres of glass, slag or the like comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin
B29C 65/00 - Joining of preformed partsApparatus therefor
Optically controllable windows and an associated window control system provide a building security platform. A window controller or other processing device can monitor for window breakage, cameras associated with windows can monitor for intruders, and transparent displays can provide alerts regarding detected activity within a building. A window control system can detect deviations from expected IN characteristics of an optically controllable window during normal operation of the window (tint transitions, steady state conditions, etc.) and/or during application of a security-related perturbing event, and provide alerts upon their occurrence.
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
This disclosure provides connectors for smart windows and doors. A smart window or door may incorporate an optically switchable pane. In one aspect, a smart window or door includes an insulated glass unit including an optically switchable pane. One aspect pertains to connectors such as, e.g., detachable power transfer connectors for movable doors or windows.
H01H 15/14 - Operating parts adapted for actuation at a limit or other predetermined position in the path of a body, the relative movement of switch and body being primarily for a purpose other than the actuation of the switch, e.g. door switch, limit switch, floor-levelling switch of a lift
H02G 11/00 - Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts
H01R 41/00 - Non-rotary current collectors for maintaining contact between moving and stationary parts of an electric circuit
H01R 12/53 - Fixed connections for rigid printed circuits or like structures connecting to cables except for flat or ribbon cables
H01R 12/62 - Fixed connections for flexible printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables or like structures connecting to rigid printed circuits or like structures
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
Various embodiments herein relate to carriers for supporting one or more substrate as the substrates are passed through a processing apparatus. In many cases, the substrates are oriented in a vertical manner. The carrier may include a frame and vertical support bars that secure the glass to the frame. The carrier may lack horizontal support bars. The carrier may allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the substrates, without any need to provide precise gaps between adjacent pairs of substrates. The carriers described herein substantially reduce the risk of breaking the processing apparatus and substrates, thereby achieving a more efficient process. Certain embodiments herein relate to methods of loading substrates onto a carrier.
C23C 14/56 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coatingArrangements for maintaining the vacuum, e.g. vacuum locks
H01L 21/673 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components using specially adapted carriers
H01L 21/677 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereofApparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components for conveying, e.g. between different work stations
In one aspect, an apparatus is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device (ECD) is arranged over the second surface that includes a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first and the second conductive layers. The apparatus further includes at least one conductive antenna structure arranged over the second surface.
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 7/28 - Other arrangements on doors or windows, e.g. door-plates, windows adapted to carry plants, hooks for window cleaners
The embodiments herein relate to methods for controlling an optical transition in an optically switchable device, and optically switchable devices configured to perform such methods. In various embodiments, non-optical (e.g., electrical) feedback is used to help control an optical transition. The feedback may be used for a number of different purposes. In many implementations, the feedback is used to control an ongoing optical transition.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
G02F 1/00 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
85.
Solar power dynamic glass for heating and cooling buildings
Various embodiments herein relate to systems for powering electrochromic windows in a building. Systems may include photovoltaic panels configured to generate electrical power, energy storage device(s) configured for storing generated power, and one or more controllers on a network of electrochromic windows that are configured to receive power from the energy storage device(s) and power tint transitions in one or more electrochromic windows. Systems may include various additional circuit components described herein for regulating and/or controlling the generation, storage, and application of electric power. The systems and techniques described herein can be used to design networks of electrochromic windows that are hybrid-solar or off-the-grid (“OTG”).
A system and a computer-implemented method of managing building wellness. The method may include the steps of: obtaining wellness parameters for a building (e.g., an office building) having an occupant(s); processing the wellness parameter to determine a current wellness index for the building and, based on the current wellness index, sending a message regarding the current wellness index to a recipient(s) (e.g., a building occupant), displaying the current wellness index for a user(s), and/or identifying a remediation action(s) to improve the current wellness index.
G16H 40/20 - ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilitiesICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities, e.g. managing hospital staff or surgery rooms
G16H 10/60 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records
G16H 15/00 - ICT specially adapted for medical reports, e.g. generation or transmission thereof
G16H 50/30 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for calculating health indicesICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for individual health risk assessment
A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for generating a graphical user interface for providing information and controlling optically switchable windows connected by a network. Windows are graphically represented using interactive smart objects placed within views of the graphical user interface in a manner corresponding to their physical location. A method, system, and/or computer program product are described for associating network IDs of optically switchable windows with the locations at which the windows are installed. Window locations are determined by analyzing received wireless transmissions that are sent from transmitters associated with each of the optically switchable windows. The determined locations are then compared with a representation of the building that provides the window locations. Upon comparison, the network ID of each window, which is communicated through the window transmissions, is associated with the appropriate window location on the representation of the building.
Aspects of this disclosure concern controllers and control methods for applying a drive voltage to bus bars of optically switchable devices such as electrochromic devices. Such devices are often provided on windows such as architectural glass. In certain embodiments, the applied drive voltage is controlled in a manner that efficiently drives an optical transition over the entire surface of the electrochromic device. The drive voltage is controlled to account for differences in effective voltage experienced in regions between the bus bars and regions proximate the bus bars. Regions near the bus bars experience the highest effective voltage.
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G09G 3/38 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G02F 1/133 - Constructional arrangementsOperation of liquid crystal cellsCircuit arrangements
G02F 1/1516 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising organic material
G02F 1/157 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. reflectors or illuminating devices
90.
METHODS OF CONTROLLING MULTI-ZONE TINTABLE WINDOWS
Window controllers and methods for controlling tinting and other functions of tinting zones of multi-zone tintable windows and multiple tinting zones of a group of tintable windows.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G02F 1/1335 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. polarisers or reflectors
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
Controllers and control methods apply a drive voltage to bus bars of a thin film optically switchable device. The applied drive voltage is provided at a level that drives a transition over the entire surface of the optically switchable device but does not damage or degrade the device. This applied voltage produces an effective voltage at all locations on the face of the device that is within a bracketed range. The upper bound of this range is associated with a voltage safely below the level at which the device may experience damage or degradation impacting its performance in the short term or the long term. At the lower boundary of this range is an effective voltage at which the transition between optical states of the device occurs relatively rapidly. The level of voltage applied between the bus bars is significantly greater than the maximum value of the effective voltage within the bracketed range.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
Various embodiments herein relate to electrochromic devices and electrochromic device precursors, as well as methods and apparatus for fabricating such electrochromic devices and electrochromic device precursors. In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device or precursor may include one or more particular materials such as a particular electrochromic material and/or a particular counter electrode material. In various implementations, the electrochromic material includes tungsten titanium molybdenum oxide. In these or other implementation, the counter electrode material may include nickel tungsten oxide, nickel tungsten tantalum oxide, nickel tungsten niobium oxide, nickel tungsten tin oxide, or another material.
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
C09K 9/00 - Tenebrescent materials, i.e. materials for which the range of wavelengths for energy absorption is changed as a result of excitation by some form of energy
C23C 14/56 - Apparatus specially adapted for continuous coatingArrangements for maintaining the vacuum, e.g. vacuum locks
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
G02F 1/1506 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect based on electrodeposition, e.g. electrolytic deposition of an inorganic material on or close to an electrode
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
G02F 1/157 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. reflectors or illuminating devices
G09G 3/19 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments by control of light from an independent source using electrochromic devices
G02F 1/1514 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material
Methods, apparatus, and systems for mitigating pinhole defects in optical devices such as electrochromic windows. One method mitigates a pinhole defect in an electrochromic device by identifying the site of the pinhole defect and obscuring the pinhole to make it less visually discernible. In some cases, the pinhole defect may be the result of mitigating a short-related defect.
B01J 19/12 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing electromagnetic waves
C03C 23/00 - Other surface treatment of glass not in the form of fibres or filaments
G01R 31/08 - Locating faults in cables, transmission lines, or networks
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
G02F 1/13 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells
G09G 3/00 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
B05D 3/12 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by mechanical means
G02F 1/15 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect
G02F 1/1516 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising organic material
Conventional electrochromic devices frequently suffer from poor reliability and poor performance. Improvements are made using entirely solid and inorganic materials. Electrochromic devices are fabricated by forming an ion conducting electronically-insulating interfacial region that serves as an IC layer. In some methods, the interfacial region is formed after formation of an electrochromic and a counter electrode layer. The interfacial region contains an ion conducting electronically-insulating material along with components of the electrochromic and/or the counter electrode layer. Materials and microstructure of the electrochromic devices provide improvements in performance and reliability over conventional devices. In various embodiments, a counter electrode is fabricated to include a base anodically coloring material and one or more additives.
G02F 1/1523 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on an electrochromic effect characterised by the electrochromic material, e.g. by the electrodeposited material comprising inorganic material
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
19 - Non-metallic building materials
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Electronic controller for adjusting and controlling insulated glass units; Internet of Things devices controller for use in residential and commercial buildings, namely, wireless controllers to monitor and control the functioning of other electronic devices in residential and commercial buildings; Wireless communication system for use in residential and commercial buildings primarily comprised of audio transmitter units that connects users and/or things in a communication environment for transmission and reception of voice, data and video; Heads-up displays (HUDs) in the nature of transparent electronic displays on windows for use in whiteboard and video conferencing applications and for displaying digital media; Building network comprised of computer hardware, wireless and wired controllers, and downloadable software for managing electrical power, data and high-speed communications; Recorded computer programs, downloadable computer programs and mobile device downloadable software for operating and managing building power, data and communication networks; Sensors and recorded computer programs, downloadable computer programs and mobile device downloadable software for measuring and analyzing environmental conditions in residential and commercial buildings; Recorded computer programs, downloadable computer programs and mobile device downloadable software for adjusting, controlling and scheduling adjustments for insulated glass units, for managing, operating and connecting Internet of Things electronic devices in residential and commercial buildings, for interfacing with remote devices for use in residential and commercial buildings, for allowing connectivity and device management, for integrating home or office automation systems comprised of lighting, climate control and other home or office monitoring and control applications, for planning, managing and integrating building systems comprised of lighting, climate control, multimedia and security systems for planning, configuring and adjusting atmosphere of interior environments and for measuring and analyzing environmental conditions Insulated glass units with electrochromic coating for windows used in building construction Installation, maintenance and repair services for glass units for windows; Providing information regarding the care, installation, maintenance and repair of glass units for windows; Consultation services regarding the installation, maintenance and repair of glass units for windows Providing temporary use of non-downloadable computer programs for use in residential and commercial buildings for adjusting and controlling insulated glass units, for managing, operating and connecting Internet of Things electronic devices, for interfacing with remote devices, for allowing connectivity and device management, for integrating home or office automation systems comprised of lighting, climate control and other home or office monitoring and control applications, for planning, managing and integrating building systems comprised of lighting, climate control, multimedia and security systems for planning, configuring and adjusting atmosphere of interior environments and for measuring and analyzing environmental conditions
96.
Methods and systems for controlling tintable windows with cloud detection
Disclosed are platforms for communicating among one or more otherwise independent systems involved in controlling functions of buildings or other sites having switchable optical devices deployed therein. Such independent systems include a window control system and one or more other independent systems such as systems that control residential home products (e.g., thermostats, smoke alarms, etc.), HVAC systems, security systems, lighting control systems, and the like. Together the systems control and/or monitor multiple features and/or products, including switchable windows and other infrastructure of a site, which may be a commercial, residential, or public site.
Controllers and control methods apply a drive voltage to bus bars of a thin film optically switchable device. The applied drive voltage is provided at a level that drives a transition over the entire surface of the optically switchable device but does not damage or degrade the device. This applied voltage produces an effective voltage at all locations on the face of the device that is within a bracketed range. The upper bound of this range is associated with a voltage safely below the level at which the device may experience damage or degradation impacting its performance in the short term or the long term. At the lower boundary of this range is an effective voltage at which the transition between optical states of the device occurs relatively rapidly. The level of voltage applied between the bus bars is significantly greater than the maximum value of the effective voltage within the bracketed range.
Aspects of this disclosure concern controllers and control methods for applying a drive voltage to bus bars of optically switchable devices such as electrochromic devices. Such devices are often provided on windows such as architectural glass. In certain embodiments, the applied drive voltage is controlled in a manner that efficiently drives an optical transition over the entire surface of the electrochromic device. The drive voltage is controlled to account for differences in effective voltage experienced in regions between the bus bars and regions proximate the bus bars. Regions near the bus bars experience the highest effective voltage. In some cases, feedback may be used to monitor an optical transition. In these or other cases, a group of optically switchable devices may transition together over a particular duration to achieve approximately uniform tint states over time during the transition.
G02F 1/163 - Operation of electrochromic cells, e.g. electrodeposition cellsCircuit arrangements therefor
G02F 1/01 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulatingNon-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour
E06B 3/67 - Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes in spaced relationship, the panes being permanently secured together, e.g. along the edges characterised by additional arrangements or devices for heat or sound insulation
E06B 9/24 - Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshineSimilar screens for privacy or appearance
100.
POWER DISTRIBUTION AND COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS FOR ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES
Various embodiments herein relate to power distribution networks for optically switchable windows. A number of different topologies are provided. In many embodiments, a control panel may be connected with a trunk line, which is connected to a plurality of optically switchable windows. The plurality of optically switchable windows may be powered by the shared trunk line. This topology provides substantial improvements over topologies in which each optically switchable window is connected to the control panel via separate, individual lines. Further, certain embodiments herein relate to installation kits for installing power distribution networks for optically switchable windows.
