KR20220157953A - The facility's data and power networks - Google Patents

Abstract

Data communication networks within or on buildings facilitate wired and wireless connections. The network may include electrical power and wires carrying two types of communication signals. The network may facilitate control of multiple devices within an enclosure (eg, facility), such as sensors, emitters, and/or tintable windows. The present disclosure includes network power management.

Description

The facility's data and power networks

priority application

This application is based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/146,365, filed on February 5, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/027,452, filed on May 20, 2020, filed on February 19, 2020. US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/978,755; The benefit is claimed from US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/977,001, filed February 14, 2020. This application claims priority to (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/850,993, filed May 21, 2019 and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/845,764, filed May 9, 2019 is a continuation-in-part of International Patent Application No. PCT/US20/32269, filed on May 9, 2020. This application is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application Serial No. 15/709,339, filed September 19, 2017. This application also relates to International Patent Application No. PCT/US17/31106, filed on May 4, 2017 - which includes (i) US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/379,163, filed on August 24, 2016, (ii) 2016 U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/352,508, filed June 20, 2016; (iii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/340,936, filed May 24, 2016; and (iv) May 6, 2016 Claiming benefit from US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/333,103, filed with - is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application Serial No. 16/099,424, filed November 6, 2018, which is a national phase entry for [0001] This application claims benefit from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/849,540, filed on April 15, 2020 - which claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/084,502, filed on November 25, 2014; U.S. Patent Application No. 15, filed on May 25, 2017, granted as U.S. Patent No. 10,673,121 on June 2, 2020, national phase entry of international patent application PCT/US15/62387, filed on June 24, 2020 /529,677 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/949,978, filed on November 23, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of . This application claims benefit from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/946,140, filed on June 8, 2020 - which claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/220,514, filed on September 18, 2015; Continuing applicant of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/268,204 filed on Apr. 16 and granted as U.S. Patent No. 10,253,558 on Apr. 9, 2019, U.S. Patent filed on Mar. 7, 2019 and filed on Jul. 7, 2020 It is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application Serial No. 16/295,142, issued as 10,704,322. This application claims benefit from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/949,800, filed on November 13, 2020 - which claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/220,514, filed on September 18, 2015; Continuing applicant of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/268,204, filed on Apr. 16 and granted as U.S. Patent No. 10,253,558 on Apr. 9, 2019, U.S. Patent Filed on Nov. 30, 2016 and filed on Jul. 30, 2019 Continuing applicant of U.S. Patent Application No. 15/365,685, issued as 10,365,532, continuation of U.S. Patent Application 16/439,376 filed on June 12, 2019 and issued as U.S. Patent No. Application - Part of continuation application. This application also relates to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/380,929, filed on April 10, 2019 - which includes (B) (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Nos. 62/191,975, filed on July 13, 2015 and (ii) ( A) Continuing Applicant of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/739,562, filed on December 22, 2017, and Continuing Applicant of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/910,931, filed on March 2, 2018, filed on March 8, 2019 Continuing applicant of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/297,461, granted on February 2, 2021 as U.S. Patent No. 10,908,471, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17/168,721, filed on February 5, 2021 Continuing application, and (C) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/380,929 filed on June 30, 2015, which also claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/019,325, filed on June 30, 2014. Continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/320,725 filed on December 20, 2016 and granted as U.S. Patent No. 10,481,459 on November 19, 2019, national phase entry of published international patent application PCT/US15/38667 to be. Each of these is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

As high data rate wireless and wired connections are not only expected, but sometimes indispensable, a facility (e.g., a building) may not only allow the transmission of wireless signals, but may also facilitate and/or provide a robust It may also facilitate wired networks. This is particularly true as wireless connectivity moves to higher frequency carrier bands (eg, as is the case with fifth generation (5G) wireless networking) and/or the physical infrastructure of a facility (eg, building). As we become more and more networked, that will be the case.

A cable network that individually addresses a plurality of centrally controlled targets (eg, devices, or components) can be complex and expensive to implement as the number of targets to which it is communicatively coupled increases. The targets may be of different types (eg, including sensors, antennas, output devices and/or tintable windows, eg optically switchable devices). The complexity of a cable network can be further magnified when the network is required to facilitate streaming multiple functionalities (eg, voice, image, data, and/or current) to and/or from its target. . When a target (eg, a third-party device) joins the network, it may cause the network to collapse (eg, due to excessive (eg, electrical) power consumption) or otherwise malfunction. When cable systems are long and/or include multiple junctions (eg, nodes), signals transmitted over such networks may be prone to attenuation so that they may be surrounded by noise and not intelligible (eg, nodes). , which can degrade as it propagates along the network). Some signals (e.g. 5G signals) that are minimally permeable (e.g. impenetrable) within an enclosure (e.g. a facility such as a building) may pass through the cable network from the external environment to the enclosure. may be requested to be transported into. Cable networks may become more extensive and/or complex as the number, span, and/or volume of (eg, parallel) cable lines, targets, data, communications, and/or electrical power distributions increase. . In some embodiments, the distribution of electrical power includes a distribution of any of the electrical power components, for example a distribution of current. Thus, networks with conventional cabling types and topologies may be expensive and/or unsuitable for such high-density applications.

Various aspects disclosed herein alleviate at least some of the above-referenced disadvantages.

The present disclosure provides systems, devices, and/or non-transitory computer readable media (eg, software) that facilitate wired and/or wireless connectivity within an enclosure.

In some aspects, disclosed herein is a coaxial cable controlled to transmit multiple stream types that are bound to different (eg, distinguishable) frequency windows. For example, a single stream type may be bound to one or more (eg, distinguishable) frequency windows. Power to the target may be controlled (eg, managed and/or limited). A target can be identified, and optionally its identity can be verified (eg via blockchain) before being fully connected to a communication network including cabling. Nodes that are communicatively coupled to a network and/or cable architecture of network cabling may be designed to preserve and/or enhance the strength of signals transmitted over the network. A cable network can facilitate the transmission of signals from an environment external to an enclosure into an internal enclosure environment and vice versa, for example by using external and internal antennas. The system may include direct current (abbreviated herein as “DC”) power dividers, repeaters, range extenders, and/or signal transponders. An example of a blockchain use, identification, security, and control system can be found in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/858,634, filed on June 7, 2019, entitled "SECURE BUILDING SERVICES NETWORK", which The entirety is incorporated herein by reference.

In another aspect, a system for power and communication transmission in a facility, the system comprising: (a) a first type of communication used for control of current, at least one device in the facility, and a second configured for media communication. a cabling system having a cable configured to transmit a type of communication and configured to operatively couple to at least one device; (b) a first antenna configured to receive signals of a second communication type external to the facility and to transmit signals of a second communication type external to the facility, the first antenna being operably coupled to the cabling system; (c) a second antenna configured to (i) receive signals of a second communication type within the facility, and (ii) transmit signals of a second communication type into the facility, and is operably coupled to the cabling system. ; and (d) at least one controller operatively coupled to the cabling system and configured to control the at least one device using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, the cable is configured to simultaneously transmit current, a first type of communication, and a second type of communication. In some embodiments, the first communication type and the second communication type do not have overlapping signal frequencies. In some embodiments, the first type of communication is within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the first type of communication includes multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the second communication type is within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes multiple frequency windows. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operatively coupled to one or more signal frequency filters. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operatively coupled to one or more signal amplifiers and/or repeaters. In some embodiments, the second communication type includes fourth generation (4G) and/or fifth generation (5G) cellular communication. In some embodiments, the second type of communication includes an analog radio frequency signal. In some embodiments, the first antenna is a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the second antenna is part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the second antenna is disposed within one of a plurality of edge distributed frame devices deployed within the facility. In some embodiments, the current is direct current. In some embodiments, the current directed to the at least one device is up to about 48 volts direct current. In some embodiments, the cables of the cabling system are coaxial cables. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes optical cables. In some embodiments, a facility includes floors, where the cabling system includes optical cables that transport a first type of communication and/or a second type of communication between floors. In some embodiments, a facility includes a plurality of control panels, where the cabling system includes an optical cable carrying a first type of communication and/or a second type of communication between the plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the cabling system includes a distribution splice. In some embodiments, the distribution junction distributes power non-uniformly. In some embodiments, the distribution junction non-uniformly distributes the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes an active element. In some embodiments, the active element is a controller. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to generate the first type of communication. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to operatively couple to a building management system. In some embodiments, the first type of communication is created and/or used by at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one device includes a sensor, emitter, antenna, tintable window, lighting, security system, heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC). In some embodiments, the sensor is motion sensitive. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the emitter includes a light emitter or a sound emitter. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor is sensitive to at least one environmental characteristic including humidity, carbon dioxide, temperature, sound, electromagnetics, volatile organic compounds, or pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a gas sensor that is sensitive to gas type, motion, and/or pressure. In some embodiments, the device is part of a device ensemble that includes one or more devices encapsulated in a housing. In some embodiments, the one or more devices includes at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the one or more devices includes at least two devices that are of different types. In some embodiments, the facility is a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the cabling system serves at least a portion of a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper.

In another aspect, a method of transmitting power and communications in a facility, the method comprising performing at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above.

In another aspect, an apparatus for transmission of power and communications at a facility, the apparatus operatively coupled to a system and configured to perform or direct the performance of at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. At least one controller configured. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by the same controller of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are performed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for transmission of power and communications at a facility, the non-transitory computer program product including instructions stored thereon, the instructions when executed by one or more processors. to execute at least one operation using any of the systems disclosed above. In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the system. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed by the same processor of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the at least one operation are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, the at least one controller comprising: (a) a current, for controlling the at least one device; to couple to a cabling system configured to operably couple to the at least one device, the cabling system having a cable configured to transmit a first type of communication being used and a second type of communication configured for media communication; (b) coupled to a first antenna configured to receive signals of a second communication type external to the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type external to the facility; (c) coupled to a second antenna configured to receive signals of a second communication type within the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type into the facility; (d) direct a second communication type from the first antenna to the second antenna; direct a second type of communication from the second antenna to the first antenna; to operably couple to at least one device of the facility; and (e) use or direct use of the first communication type to control at least one device of the facility. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (e) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) to (e) are performed by different ones of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to operate , wherein the operation is to: (a) transmit, over the cable, a current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; or directing its transmission, wherein the cable is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled; (b) directing signals of a second communication type received by the first antenna to a second antenna and directing signals of a second communication type received by the second antenna to the first antenna, the first antenna being a facility configured to receive signals of a second type of communication outside the facility and to transmit signals of a second type of communication outside the facility, the second antenna to receive signals of the second type of communication inside the facility and to transmit signals of the second type of communication into the facility. configured to transmit a signal of the type -; and (c) controlling or directing control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, one or more processors are operatively coupled to a cabling system. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (a) over a cable, (i) current, (ii) a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device. , and (iii) transmitting a second type of communication configured for media communication, wherein the cable is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled; (b) directing a signal of a second communication type received by the first antenna to a second antenna and directing a signal of a second communication type received by the second antenna to the first antenna, wherein the first antenna is a facility configured to receive signals of a second type of communication outside the facility and to transmit signals of a second type of communication outside the facility, the second antenna to receive signals of the second type of communication inside the facility and to transmit signals of the second type of communication into the facility. configured to transmit a signal of the type -; and (c) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, the method further includes simultaneously transmitting the current, the first type of communication, and the second type of communication over the cable. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using the first communication type and the second communication type such that the first communication type has no overlapping signal frequencies with the second communication type. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using a first type of communication within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using the first type of communication within the plurality of frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using a second communication type within one frequency window. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using a second communication type within the plurality of frequency windows. In some embodiments, the method further includes operatively coupling the cabling system to one or more signal frequency filters. In some embodiments, the method further includes operatively coupling the cabling system to one or more signal amplifiers and/or repeaters. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using the second communication type as fourth generation (4G) and/or fifth generation (5G) cellular communication. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the second type of communication as analog radio frequency signals. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the first antenna as a directional antenna. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a second antenna as part of a distributed antenna system. In some embodiments, the method further comprises placing a second antenna within one of a plurality of edge distributed frame devices deployed within the facility. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the current as direct current. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the current as a direct current of up to about 48 volts. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a cable of the cabling system as a coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a cabling system that includes an optical cable. In some embodiments, a facility includes a floor. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a cabling system comprising an optical cable configured to transmit (i) a first type of communication and/or (ii) a second type of communication between floors. to include In some embodiments, a facility includes a plurality of control panels. In some embodiments, the method provides and/or uses a cabling system comprising an optical cable configured to transmit (i) a first type of communication and/or (ii) a second type of communication between a plurality of control panels. Include additional steps. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution splice as part of a cabling system. In some embodiments, the method further includes distributing power non-uniformly by the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the method further comprises non-uniformly distributing the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication by the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a dispensing joint as a passive component. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution junction as an active element. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the active element as a controller. In some embodiments, the cabling system is operably coupled to the building management system. In some embodiments, the method further comprises generating and/or utilizing the first type of communication by the at least one device. In some embodiments, the method provides at least one device that includes a sensor, an emitter, an antenna, a tintable window, a light, a security system, a heating ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC), or a plurality of combinations thereof, and/or Further steps are included. In some embodiments, the sensor is configured to detect motion. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an accelerometer. In some embodiments, the emitter includes a light emitter or a sound emitter. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light sensor. In some embodiments, the method further includes the sensor being configured to sense at least one environmental characteristic including humidity, carbon dioxide, temperature, sound, electromagnetics, volatile organic compounds, or pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a gas sensor that is sensitive to gas type, motion, and/or pressure. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the device to be part of a device ensemble that includes one or more devices encapsulated in a housing. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring the one or more devices to be at least two devices of the same type. In some embodiments, the method further comprises configuring the one or more devices to be at least two devices of different types. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the facility to be a multi-story building. In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the cabling system to service at least a portion of the multi-story building. In some embodiments, the multi-story building is a skyscraper. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using the cabling system as a trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution splice configured to operatively couple the trunk cable to a branch line cable.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, the at least one controller configured to (i) operably couple to a cabling system. and the cabling system includes a trunk line cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, current, and ( a branch line cable configured to transmit i) a first type of communication, and/or (ii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction comprising a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) a second connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable; (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the trunk cable to the branch cable. ; (g) operably couple to at least one device; and (h) use or direct use of the first communication type to control the at least one device.

In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of an electrical power request (eg, current request) from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of an electrical power requirement (eg, current requirement) from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to direct current along the trunk cable to the at least one device, and the current is transmitted through the distribution junction. In some embodiments, transmission of current through the distribution junction is performed without control of at least one controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is not controlled by a first controller configured to control (i) current, (ii) a first type of communication, (iii) a second type of communication, or (iv) any combination thereof. It consists of In some embodiments, the distribution junction is controlled by a second controller different from the first controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is not controlled by the controller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes a controller that controls (i) current, (ii) a first type of communication, and/or (iii) a second type of communication, transmitted through the distribution junction. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is active. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control the directed current in response to an electrical power requirement (eg, current requirement) received from the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to formulate or direct formulation of a time schedule for operation of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of a duration of time for a given process to occur on the device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of when the at least one device is required to operate. In some embodiments, the at least one controller determines or directs the determination of (i) a mode of operation, (ii) a scheme for the at least one device, or (iii) any combination or plurality thereof. is configured to In some embodiments, the determination is based at least in part on the operation of at least one other device operably coupled to the network. In some embodiments, the operating mode includes continuous operation and/or intermittent operation. In some embodiments, the at least one device includes a first device having a first mode of operation, and a second device having a second mode of operation, and the at least one controller interfaces the first mode and the second mode of operation. It is configured to interlace or indicate its interlacing. In some embodiments, the at least one device includes a first device configured to issue a first request, and a second device configured to issue a second request, and the at least one controller inter-connects the first request and the second request. lacing or instructing its interlacing. In some embodiments, at least one device is a third party device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to manage or direct management of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operate or direct the operation of at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller identifies how the at least one controller is operatively coupled to (i) a channel of the plurality of channels and/or (ii) a device of the at least one device; or configured to indicate its identification. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct prioritization of a power budget for at least one device and/or channel according to logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes business logic. In some embodiments, the logic includes spatial designation. In some embodiments, space designation includes prioritization of spaces in the facility. In some embodiments, the spatial designation includes some kind of (eg, certain type of) space. In some embodiments, the space designation is height, width, length, floor area, volume, temperature, humidity level, contamination level, radon level, particulate level, carbon dioxide level, volatile organic compound (VOC) level, pollen A space having at least one characteristic that includes a level, a residential space, a commercial space, an office space, a space that includes one or more subdivisions, a kitchen space, a living space, a bedroom space, a garage, a factory, a basement, a storage room, a bathroom, a closet. , a hallway, a hallway, a windowless space, a space with one or more windows, a space with an exterior wall, a space with only an interior wall, an insulated space, an uninsulated space, a soundproofed space, an uninsulated space, or any combination thereof. includes In some embodiments, space designation includes occupancy levels. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of an occupancy level using the at least one occupancy sensor. In some embodiments, at least one occupancy sensor includes a geolocation, infrared, or visible light sensor. In some embodiments, the geolocation sensor is configured to detect electromagnetic radiation, including ultra-wideband (UWB) radio waves, ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves used in global positioning systems (GPS). In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of an occupancy level based at least in part on dead-reckoning. In some embodiments, space designations include occupancy zones. In some embodiments, the logic includes one or more external conditions outside the facility, or schedule. The logic includes (i) a device specification, (ii) a device power request, (iii) a device power requirement for at least one device, (iv) a power request from at least one device, (v) a prediction by at least one device. (vi) machine learning (ML), (vii) one or more scheduling constraints, (vii) historical data, (viii) product management, or (ix) one or more reasonable inferences. In some embodiments, the device power requirements specify one or more specifications including (i) an amount of power, (ii) a delivery time for power, or (iii) a delivery duration for power. In some embodiments, at least one controller uses or directs the use of power budget prioritization to create a power distribution scheme for certain channels of the plurality of channels and/or certain devices of the at least one device. is configured to In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to distribute or direct distribution of electrical power (eg, current) to a channel of the plurality of channels and/or to a device of the at least one device. In some embodiments, the at least one device includes a plurality of devices, and the at least one controller is configured to define or direct a definition of a priority list of devices for electrical power usage among the plurality of devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct monitoring of electrical power distribution to a plurality of devices, the plurality of devices coupled to the network. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of an electrical power (eg, current) budget request from one or more of the plurality of devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller determines (i) an electric power budget request, (ii) an electric power budget request and any other power budget request, (iii) a distribution status of electric power in the network, (iv) a future An estimate of the distribution of electrical power in the network in time, (v) a historical power usage of any of a plurality of devices in the network, (vi) a power usage trend of any of a plurality of devices, or (vii) any of these It is configured to consider or direct consideration of a combination or plurality. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to generate or direct the generation of a result relating to a power distribution of a device of the plurality of devices from which at least one controller has received an electric power budget request. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to intermittently supply or direct the intermittent supply of electrical power to certain devices of the plurality of devices from which at least one controller has received an electrical power budget request. In some embodiments, intermittent feeding includes regular (eg, repetitive) intervals. In some embodiments, intermittent feeding includes irregular (eg, non-repeating) intervals. In some embodiments, the at least one controller delays or delays the continuous supply of electrical power (eg, current) to certain devices of the plurality of devices from which at least one controller has received an electrical power budget request. or configured to indicate its delay. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to disconnect or instruct a device of the plurality of devices to disconnect in response to detecting that the device is discharging electrical power above a threshold. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to terminate or instruct termination of a second type of communication for a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is using electrical power above a threshold. It consists of In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to remove or direct removal of at least a portion of the electrical power from a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is using electrical power above a threshold. It consists of In some embodiments, the priority list is based at least in part on business logic. In some embodiments, the electrical power budget request is for a modified power budget. In some embodiments, power usage trends are determined based at least in part on machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is operably coupled to a network to which one or more tintable windows are operably coupled. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to create or direct the creation of a model using one or more modes of operation for the tintable window. In some embodiments, one or more modes of operation include a transition of one or more tintable windows. In some embodiments, one or more modes of operation include artificial intelligence or machine learning. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to collect or direct the collection of information to create a training set. In some embodiments, the collected information includes historical measurements. In some embodiments, the historical measurements are facility's. In some embodiments, the historical measurements are from other facilities. In some embodiments, the collected information includes synthesized measurements. In some embodiments, the collected information is gathered from software and/or hardware of the local controller. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to use or direct use of the training set to predict electrical power usage of the at least one device at a future time. In some embodiments, the at least one controller delivers or directs the delivery of power to the at least one device based at least in part on a prediction of electrical power (eg, current) usage of the at least one device at a future time. is configured to In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (h) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (a) through (h) are performed by different ones of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising performing at least one operation using operation of any of the at least one controller disclosed above.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product including instructions stored therein, the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, comprising one or more Causes a processor to execute the operation of any of the at least one controller described above. In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the trunk cable. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system including structural components of any of the structures (eg, apparatuses) disclosed above.

In another aspect, a system for power and communication transmission, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication. ; a branch line cable configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication, and/or (ii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) a third connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable; (e) direct a current from a trunk cable to a branch cable, and (f) direct a first communication type and/or a second communication type from a trunk cable to a branch cable. It consists of

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to operate , wherein the operation includes: (A) transmitting, over the cabling system, a current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication. or directing its transmission - a cable is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising: a first type of communication used for control of current, at least one device; and a trunk line cable configured to transmit a second type of communication configured for media communication, a current, and a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) a first type of communication, and/or (ii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line comprises at least one configured to couple to the device, and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) to couple to the branch line by a third connection, (c) to direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) the first communication type and/or the second communication type. (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (f) the first communication type and/or the second communication type to the trunk cable. configured to direct from to branch line cables; and (B) controlling or directing control of the at least one device by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, one or more processors are operably coupled to the trunk cable. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) current, a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and media communication over a cabling system. transmitting a second type of communication configured for: the cable is part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising: a first used for control of current, the at least one device; a trunk line cable configured to transmit a communication type, and a second communication type configured for media communication, a current, and a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) a first communication type, and/or (ii) a second communication type, the branch line comprising: configured to couple to at least one device, and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising: (a) along a trunk cable by the first connection and at the second connection; (b) to couple to a branch line by a third connection, (c) to direct current along a trunk cable from a first connection to a second connection, (d) to a first type of communication and/or to a second connection. 2 communication types are directed from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (e) current is directed from the trunk cable to the branch cable, and (f) the first communication type and/or the second communication type. configured to direct from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and (B) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type.

In another aspect, a system for transmitting power and communications, the system comprising: a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of a device in a facility, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; a plurality of branch line cables configured to couple to a device and configured to transmit current, and (i) a first type of communication, and/or (ii) a second type of communication; and at least a controller configured to control distribution of the current and/or activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted in the system.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling a device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, the at least one controller configured to: (A) operably couple to a cabling system—the cabling The system comprises a trunk cable configured to transmit a current, a first communication type used for control of the device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, and the current, and (i) the first communication type, and and/or (ii) comprising a plurality of branch line cables configured to transmit the second type of communication and configured to couple to the device; (B) operably couple to the device; and (C) control or direct control of distribution of the current and/or activation of the device by taking account of the current transmitted in the system.

In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by different ones of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling a device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to execute an operation. having instructions to: (A) transmit or direct transmission of a first communication type used for control of a device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, over a cabling system; a cable is part of a cabling system to which a device is operably coupled, the cabling system transmitting current, a first type of communication used for control of the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; a trunk cable configured to: and (B) controlling or instructing the distribution of the current and/or activation of the device by considering the current being transmitted in the system.

In some embodiments, one or more processors are operatively coupled to a cabling system. In some embodiments, operation (A) and operation (B) are executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, operation (A) is executed on a different processor than the processor executing operation (B), which processor is of one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a method for controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) current, a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and media communication over a cabling system. transmitting a second type of communication configured for: the cable is part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising: a first type of communication used for control of current, devices; and a trunk cable configured to transmit a second type of communication configured for media communication, and a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit a current, and (i) a first type of communication, and/or (ii) a second type of communication; , the branch line is configured to couple to the device -; and (B) controlling the distribution of the current and/or the activation of the device by taking into account the current being transmitted in the system.

In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device in a facility, the system transmitting an electric current, a first type of communication used for controlling the at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication. a trunk line cable configured to transmit (i) current, and (ii) a first type of communication, and/or (iii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) a first connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable; (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the trunk cable to the branch cable. ; and (g) configured to be operably coupled to the at least one device.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to facilitate two-way communication. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct current from the second connection to the first connection along the trunk cable. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication is passive. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first communication type and/or the second communication type is (i) active, (ii) dynamic, or (iii) active and dynamic. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is disposed within the distribution junction. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection. In some embodiments, the distribution splice is configured to direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the branch cable to the trunk cable. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to connect to at least one device through a trunk line.

In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device of a facility, the method comprising: (A) using a cabling system, wherein the cabling system is used for controlling (I) current, at least one device. (II) a trunk cable configured to transmit (i) current, and (ii) a first communication type, and/or (iii) a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit a branch line, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and (III) a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction being coupled by (a) the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable, ( b) coupling to the branch line by a third connection, (c) directing a current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable, (d) connecting the first communication type and/or the second communication type to the trunk cable. (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (f) the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable, so as to direct current from the first connection to the second connection along configured to direct and (g) operably couple to at least one device; and (B) controlling the at least one device at least in part by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution junction that facilitates two-way communication. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution junction to direct current along the trunk cable from the second connection to the first connection. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using the distribution junction to direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the second connection to the first connection along the trunk cable. . In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using a distribution splice to direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the branch cable to the trunk cable. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using a distribution junction to be coupled to the at least one device via a trunk line. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to passively direct current, the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to actively and/or dynamically direct the current, the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication. In some embodiments, directing the current, the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication by the distribution junction is facilitated by at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least one controller is disposed within the distribution junction. In some embodiments, at least one controller includes a microcontroller.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller, the at least one controller configured to: (A) operably couple to a cabling system—cabling system a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first communication type used for control of at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) current, and (ii) a first type of communication, and/or (iii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) a first connection; (c) direct current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable; (e) direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable, (f) direct the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication from the trunk cable to the branch cable. ; and (g) configured to operably couple to at least one device; (B) use or direct the use of a cabling system; and (C) control or direct control of the at least one device at least in part by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (A) through (C) are performed by different ones of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product comprising instructions stored therein, the instructions being operably coupled to a cabling system of the facility. When executed by one or more processors configured to cause the one or more processors to execute an operation, the cabling system comprises a first communication type used for control of current, at least one device, and a second configured for media communication. trunk cable configured to transmit 2 types of communication; a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) current, and (ii) a first type of communication, and/or (iii) a second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to at least one device; and a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising: (a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable; (b) (c) direct current along the trunk cable from the first connection to the second connection, (d) provide a first communication type and/or a second communication type along the trunk cable to couple to the branch line by the three connections to direct a first connection to a second connection, (e) to direct a current from a trunk cable to a branch cable, (f) to direct a first communication type and/or a second communication type from a trunk cable to a branch cable ; and (g) configured to be operably coupled to at least one device, wherein the operation comprises: (A) using or directing use of a cabling system; and (B) controlling or directing control of the at least one device at least in part by using the first communication type.

In some embodiments, one or more processors are operatively coupled to a cabling system. In some embodiments, the operation is executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a method of controlling at least one device in a facility, the method comprising: (a) directing transmission of current from a trunk cable to a device through a branch cable, the branch cable comprising a current from the trunk cable to the branch cable. operably coupled to the trunk cable via a distribution splice configured to direct the; (b) monitoring electrical power (e.g., current) consumption of the device across trunk cables, distribution junctions, and branch cables; and (c) controlling the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring step.

In some embodiments, a facility includes a building. In some embodiments, the establishment is a commercial establishment. In some embodiments, the facility is a residential facility. In some embodiments, a residential facility includes a single-family home. In some embodiments, the residential facility includes a collective home. In some embodiments, the distribution splice is configured to direct communications from the trunk cable to the branch cable. In some embodiments, the communication includes a first type of communication and a second type of communication. In some embodiments, the first communication type uses a different wavelength than the wavelength used by the second communication type. In some embodiments, communication includes media communication. In some embodiments, communication includes cellular communication. In some embodiments, the cellular communication conforms to at least a (i) fourth generation, (ii) fifth generation, or (iii) fourth and fifth generation, cellular communication protocol. In some embodiments, communication includes data transmission. In some implementations, communication adheres to a control protocol. In some embodiments, the method further includes controlling communication from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing and/or using at least one device as a sensor, emitter, or combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing and/or using at least one device as an antenna.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, wherein the apparatus is operably coupled to a cabling system and performs or directs the performance of any operation of any of the methods disclosed above. and at least one controller configured to In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by the same controller of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of the operations are performed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product comprising instructions stored therein, the instructions comprising: one operatively coupled to a cabling system. When executed by one or more processors, it causes the one or more processors to perform any operation of the disclosed method. In some embodiments, one or more processors are operatively coupled to a cabling system. In some embodiments, the operation is executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, a system for controlling at least one device of a facility, the system including structural components of any of the structures (eg, apparatuses) disclosed above.

In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product comprising instructions stored therein, the instructions comprising: electrical current to and from a cabling system of the facility. When executed by one or more processors operably coupled to a power (e.g., current) supply, causes the one or more processors to perform operations that: (a) trunk cables to branch cables of a cabling system; directing transmission of current to a device in the facility through a branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable via a distribution splice configured to direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; (b) monitoring or directing the monitoring of electrical power (eg, current) consumption of devices across trunk cables, distribution joints, and branch cables; and (c) controlling or directing control of the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to monitoring.

In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable program product includes one or more media. In some embodiments, the operation is executed by the same processor of one or more processors. In some embodiments, the operations are executed by different processors of the one or more processors. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

In another aspect, an apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, the apparatus comprising at least one controller, the at least one controller comprising: (a) to a cabling system of the facility and to a source of electrical power of electric current; to operably engage; (b) to direct the transmission of current from trunk cables of the cabling system through branch cables to devices in the facility, wherein the branch cables are operable to trunk cables through distribution joints configured to direct current from trunk cables to branch cables. bound together -; (c) monitor or direct the monitoring of electrical power consumption of devices across trunk cables, distribution splices, and branch cables; and (d) control or direct control of current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

In some embodiments, at least one controller includes circuitry. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) to (d) are performed by the same one of the at least one controller. In some embodiments, at least two of (b) to (d) are performed by different controllers of the at least one controller.

The present disclosure provides systems, devices, and/or non-transitory computer readable media (eg, software) that facilitate wired and/or wireless connections within an enclosure and between the enclosure and the external environment. In some implementations, a control panel configured to provide network services to end targets (eg, devices) within a facility (eg, building) is provided. Termination targets (eg devices) may be coupled to each other by a network comprising at least one coaxial cable. The control panel can include a coaxial cable connector configured to couple to at least one coaxial cable. The control panel may include a direct current (DC) electrical power source, a data networking head end, and/or a cellular communication head end. In some embodiments, the DC power supply is (i) coupled to the coaxial cable connector and (ii) configured to provide a DC signal to at least a portion of the at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the data networking head end (i) is coupled to the coaxial cable connector and (ii) connects to at least a first subset of termination targets (eg, devices) within an enclosure (eg, a building) (eg, a building). eg, using a communication protocol and/or via at least one coaxial cable). In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is coupled to a coaxial cable connector. In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is coupled to at least a second subset of end targets (eg, devices) within an enclosure (eg, a building) via at least one coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is configured to provide the first cellular communication to the coaxial cable connector for transmission over the second subset of termination targets (eg, devices). In some embodiments, the cellular communication head end is configured to receive the second cellular communication from the coaxial cable connector upon receipt of the second cellular communication by the second subset of termination targets (eg, devices).

Certain implementations may include one or more of the following features. A control panel in which a second subset of end devices includes a cellular antenna and a cellular communication head end causes a control panel to transmit a first cellular communication via the cellular antenna and upon receipt of the second cellular communication by the cellular antenna transmit the second cellular communication. configured to receive A control panel, wherein a second subset of end devices includes a passive antenna and a cellular communication head end, to transmit the first cellular communication via the passive antenna and, upon receipt of the second cellular communication by the passive antenna, to transmit the second cellular communication. configured to receive A control panel whose data networking headend is G.hn headend and communication protocol is G.hn protocol. A control panel whose data networking headend is a Multimedia over Coaxial Alliance (MoCA) headend and whose communication protocol is the MoCA protocol. A first subset of end devices are power consuming devices and the control panel is also configured to manage consumption of the direct current signal among the power consuming devices by negotiating with the (eg, electrical) power consuming devices via the data networking head end. contains the controller. A control panel that also includes a plurality of fiber optic connectors, the control panel being configured to communicate with a further control panel via an optical fiber coupled to the fiber optic connector. A control panel, wherein the first subset of end devices includes a plurality of window controllers and a control panel, is also configured to (i) generate a tint transition command and (ii) use a data networking head end to issue a tint transition command. and a floor window controller configured to transmit to the window controllers. A control panel configured to generate and receive signals in a first frequency range as part of a data networking head end communicating in a communication protocol, wherein the first cellular communication and the second cellular communication are in a second frequency range, and wherein the first cellular communication is in a second frequency range. The range and the second frequency range do not overlap.

Certain implementations may include an apparatus for controlling one or more optically switchable windows, the apparatus comprising: a first connector configured to couple to a first network cable; a low pass filter coupled to the first connector; DC-DC circuitry coupled to the low pass filter, configured to receive a DC signal from the first network cable through the low pass filter, and configured to convert the DC signal into one or more conditioned DC signals; a second connector configured to provide a first conditioned DC signal from the DC-DC circuit to a second network cable; One or more controllers collectively configured to (1) receive and be powered by one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuitry and (2) provide bi-directional communication between the first external device and the second external device. - a first external device is coupled to the one or more controllers through a first connector and a second external device is coupled to the one or more controllers through a second connector; a third connector configured to couple to one or more optically switchable windows through a window cable; and (i) receive and be powered by one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuitry, (ii) receive or generate a tint transition command, and (iii) a tint transition signal based on the tint transition command. and a window controller configured to provide the at least one optically switchable window through the third connector.

Certain implementations may include one or more of the following features. An apparatus in which a first external device is a control panel providing at least a DC signal, wherein the second external device is a terminating device, and the one or more controllers are configured to receive a power delivery request from the terminating device and forward the power delivery request to the control panel. It consists of An apparatus configured to cause the one or more controllers to negotiate power consumption by a second external device of the first regulated DC signal, wherein prior to negotiating the power consumption, the one or more controllers to the second external device of the first regulated DC signal. configured to limit power consumption by a predetermined limit. An apparatus comprising a G.hn interface wherein one or more controllers are coupled to a first connector, the G.hn interface configured to provide bi-directional communication in the G.hn communications protocol between a first external device and the apparatus. An apparatus comprising a MoCA interface wherein one or more controllers are coupled to a first connector, the MoCA interface configured to provide bi-directional communication of a MoCA communication protocol between a first external device and the apparatus. An apparatus comprising an Ethernet interface having one or more controllers coupled to a second connector, the Ethernet interface configured to provide bi-directional communication of an Ethernet protocol between a second external device and the apparatus. An apparatus, wherein the one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to the first connector, the G.hn interface configured to provide bi-directional communication in a G.hn communication protocol between a first external device and the apparatus, wherein the one or more controllers includes an Ethernet interface coupled to the second connector and the Ethernet interface is configured to provide bi-directional communication in Ethernet protocol between the second external device and the device, and the one or more controllers convert communication between the G.hn protocol and the Ethernet protocol. is configured to A device in which the low pass filter includes an inductor choke. A device in which the DC-DC circuitry includes at least one of a buck converter and a boost converter. A device in which the first regulated DC signal provided to the second connector comprises a 48 volt DC signal compliant with a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) protocol.

Certain implementations may include a network adapter. The network adapter includes a first connector configured to couple to a first network cable; a low pass filter coupled to the first connector; DC-DC circuitry coupled to the low pass filter, configured to receive a DC signal from the first network cable through the low pass filter, and configured to convert the DC signal into one or more conditioned DC signals; a second connector configured to provide one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuitry to a second network cable; and one or more controllers configured to: (1) receive one of the conditioned DC signals from the DC-DC circuitry and be electrically powered by it; (2) using a first communication protocol; to communicate bi-directionally with a first external device coupled to the one or more controllers through a first connector; (3) bi-directionally, using a second communication protocol, with a second external device coupled to the one or more controllers through a second connector; and (4) to provide two-way communication between the first external device and the second external device, including converting communication in a first communication protocol to communication in a second communication protocol and vice versa.

Certain implementations may include one or more of the following features. The first external device is a control panel that provides at least a DC signal, the second external device is an end device, and the one or more controllers are configured to receive a (eg, electrical) power delivery request from the end device in a first communication protocol. and configured to forward a power transfer request to a control panel in a second communication protocol. The one or more controllers are configured to negotiate power consumption of the first regulated DC signal by the second external device, and prior to negotiating the power consumption, the one or more controllers configure the power consumption of the first regulated DC signal by the second external device. A network adapter configured to limit consumption to a predetermined limit. A network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include a G.hn interface coupled to the first connector and the first communication protocol is a G.hn communication protocol. A network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include a MoCA interface coupled to the first connector and wherein the first communication protocol is a MoCA communication protocol. A network adapter, wherein the one or more controllers include an Ethernet interface coupled to the second connector and the second communication protocol is an Ethernet communication protocol. A network adapter, wherein the first connector is a coaxial cable connector and the second connector is a power over Ethernet connector. A network adapter, wherein one of the conditioned DC signals provided by the second connector is a 48 volt DC signal compliant with the Power over Ethernet protocol.

Certain implementations may include a system. The system includes a control panel configured to generate a DC signal; a plurality of distribution junctions; a first coaxial cable trunk; and a plurality of additional coaxial cable trunks, wherein the first coaxial cable trunk is coupled between the control panel and a first one of the distribution junctions, the additional coaxial cable trunks are coupled between each pair of distribution junctions, the distribution junction , a first coaxial cable trunk, and an additional coaxial cable trunk to (i) carry a DC signal from the control panel to each of the distribution junctions, (ii) transfer a first time-varying signal formatted in a first digital communication protocol to each of the distribution junctions. and (iii) bidirectionally propagate a second time-varying signal formatted in a second digital communication protocol between at least one of the distribution junctions and the control panel; The time-varying signal is a signal in a first band of frequencies, the second time-varying signal is a signal in a second band of frequencies, and the first band and the second band of frequencies do not overlap.

Certain implementations may include one or more of the following features. A system in which each distribution junction includes an unbalanced transformer having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, the primary circuit coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk and the secondary circuit coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk. and a tertiary circuit is coupled to the coaxial cable branch line specific to the distribution junction, and a first time-varying signal having a first (e.g., communication signal such as RF) power level and received by the primary circuit is transmitted by the secondary circuit to the first A third order circuit receives a first time-varying signal at a second (eg, communication signal, such as RF) power level that is at least 75% of the power level and a third (eg, communication signal, such as RF) power level that is less than or equal to 25% of the first power level. To receive a first time-varying signal at a power level, it is unequally split onto secondary and tertiary circuits. A system comprising an unbalanced transformer, each distribution junction having a primary circuit, a secondary circuit, and a tertiary circuit, the primary circuit coupled to an upstream coaxial cable trunk, the secondary circuit coupled to a downstream coaxial cable trunk, and a tertiary circuit is coupled to a coaxial cable branch line specific to such a distribution junction, a first time-varying signal having a first power level and received by the primary circuit causes the secondary circuit to receive the first time-varying signal at a second power level and the tertiary circuit Receives the first time-varying signal at a third power level and is unequally split onto secondary and tertiary circuits such that the third power level is less than the second power level. A first inductor in which at least some of the distribution joints couple the DC signal from the upstream coaxial cable trunk to the downstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction and the DC signal from the upstream coaxial cable trunk to the coaxial cable branch associated with the distribution junction. and a second inductor coupled to the system. A system comprising a branch circuit in which the second time-varying signal is a cellular communication signal and a first one of the distribution junctions includes a passive cellular antenna. A first band of frequencies associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal, and the first one of the distribution junctions blocks the cellular communication signal from propagating through the first one of the distribution junctions to the rest of the distribution junctions. A system comprising a low pass filter configured to: A first band of frequencies associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal, and at least one of the distribution joints blocks the cellular communication signal from propagating from an upstream coaxial cable trunk to a downstream coaxial cable trunk associated with the distribution junction. A system comprising a configured low-pass filter. A second one of the distribution junctions is directly coupled to a first one of the distribution junctions by a first additional one of the additional coaxial cable trunks to a first one of the distribution junctions, and the second one of the distribution junctions is configured to provide an additional passive cellular antenna. A system comprising a branch circuit comprising: such that a first band of frequencies associated with the first time-varying signal is lower than the cellular communication signal, and a second one of the distribution junctions blocks the cellular communication signal from propagating beyond the first and second distribution junctions to the rest of the distribution junctions. A system comprising a configured low-pass filter.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a system, apparatus (eg, controller), and/or non-transitory computer readable medium (eg, software) that implements any of the methods disclosed herein. .

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of using any of the systems and/or devices disclosed herein, eg, for their intended purpose.

In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller operably coupled to and programmed to direct a mechanism used to implement (eg, achieve) any of the methods disclosed herein.

In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller configured (eg, programmed) to implement (eg, achieve) a method disclosed herein. At least one controller may implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

In another aspect, a system includes at least one controller programmed to direct the operation of at least one other device (or component thereof), and at least one controller operably coupled to the device (or component thereof). include A device (or component thereof) may include any device (or component thereof) disclosed herein. At least one controller may direct any device (or component thereof) disclosed herein.

In another aspect, a computer software product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, wherein the instructions, when read by a computer, cause the computer to implement (eg, achieve) any of the methods disclosed herein. ), and a non-transitory computer readable medium is operatively coupled to the mechanism. The mechanism may include any device (or any component thereof) disclosed herein.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, accomplishes the instructions of the controller(s) (eg, as disclosed herein). provides

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and non-transitory computer readable media coupled thereto. A non-transitory computer readable medium contains machine executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements any method disclosed herein and/or accomplishes the instructions of the controller(s) disclosed herein.

The content of this Summary section is provided in this disclosure as a simplified introduction and is not intended to be used to limit the scope of any invention disclosed herein or the scope of the appended claims.

Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, in which only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be appreciated, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details may be modified in various obvious respects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be considered illustrative in nature and not limiting.

These and other features and embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Inclusion by reference

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following detailed description, which describes exemplary embodiments in which the principles of the present invention are employed, and to the accompanying drawings or diagrams (also referred to herein as "Figures"). You will be able to.
1 schematically shows a perspective view of a control system architecture and enclosure.
2 schematically illustrates a network infrastructure.
3 schematically shows the electrical circuit and shows the distribution junction housing.
4 schematically shows a network cable.
5 schematically shows signals at different frequencies.
6 schematically illustrates a network adapter.
7 schematically shows a control panel.
8 schematically illustrates a network infrastructure.
9 schematically illustrates a network infrastructure.
10 schematically illustrates a network infrastructure.
11a, 11b, and 11c schematically depict a network infrastructure.
12 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electrochromic device.
13 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a tintable window.
14 schematically illustrates a computer system.
15 schematically illustrates various facility floor network topologies.
16A schematically illustrates a facility floor network topology, and FIG. 16B shows
Shows a diagram of a portion of a facility floor network.
17A and 17B schematically depict various facility floor network topologies.
18 schematically illustrates a facility floor network topology.
19 schematically shows an electronic schematic of a distribution junction.
20 schematically illustrates various mechanical configurations associated with a distribution joint.
21 schematically illustrates various mechanical configurations associated with a distribution joint.
22 schematically shows an electronic schematic of a distribution junction.
23 schematically illustrates various network infrastructures.
24 shows a flow diagram of an exemplary method of using a distribution junction.
25 depicts a flow diagram illustrating an example method of managing a device.
26 depicts a flow diagram illustrating an example method of prioritizing power budgets for devices.
27 depicts a flow diagram illustrating an example method of managing power distribution to a device.
28 depicts a flow diagram illustrating an example method of managing a device in the context of a tintable window.
The drawings and components within them may not be drawn to scale. Various components of the drawings described herein may not be drawn to scale.

Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, modifications and substitutions may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed. Terms such as "a", "an" and "the" are not intended to refer to singular entities only, but include generic classes from which specific examples may be used for illustration purposes. The terminology herein is used to describe a particular embodiment of the invention(s), but their use is not intended to limit the invention(s).

When referring to ranges, ranges are meant to be inclusive of the bounds unless otherwise specified. For example, a range between the value 1 and the value 2 means that the boundary value is included, and includes the value 1 and the value 2. The boundary value inclusion range will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. As used herein, the terms "adjacent" or "adjacent to" include 'next to', 'adjacent', 'contacting with' and 'proximate to'.

As used herein, including in the claims, the conjunction “and/or” in a phrase such as “comprising X, Y, and/or Z” refers to any combination or plurality of X, Y, and Z. refers to including For example, these phrases are intended to include X. For example, this phrase is intended to include Y. For example, these phrases are intended to include Z. For example, this phrase is intended to include X and Y. For example, this phrase is intended to include X and Z. For example, this phrase is intended to include Y and Z. For example, these phrases are intended to include a plurality of X's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of Y's. For example, such phrases are intended to include a plurality of Z's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of X's and a plurality of Y's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of X's and a plurality of Z's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of Y's and a plurality of Z's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of X's and Y's. For example, this phrase is intended to include a plurality of X's and Z's. For example, this phrase is intended to include the plural Y and Z. For example, this phrase is intended to include an X and a plurality of Y's. For example, this phrase is intended to include X and a plurality of Z's. For example, this phrase is intended to include Y and a plurality of Z's. The conjunction "and/or" is intended to have the same effect as the phrase "X, Y, Z, or any combination or plurality thereof." The conjunction “and/or” is intended to have the same effect as the phrase “one or more X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof”. The conjunction "and/or" is intended to have the same effect as the phrase "at least one X, Y, Z, or any combination thereof." The conjunction “and/or” is intended to have the same effect as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z”.

The term “operably coupled” or “operably connected” means that a first element (e.g., a mechanism) is coupled to (or refers to being connected). Bonding can include physical or non-physical bonding. Non-physical coupling may include signal induced coupling (eg, wireless coupling). Coupling may include physical coupling (eg, physically connected) or non-physical coupling (eg, via wireless communication).

An element (eg, mechanism) that is “configured to” perform a function includes structural features that enable the element to perform that function. Structural features may include electrical features such as circuitry or circuit elements. Structural features may include circuitry (eg, including electrical or optical circuitry). Electrical circuitry may include one or more wires. The optical circuitry may include at least one optical element (eg, a beam splitter, a mirror, a lens, and/or an optical fiber). Structural features may include mechanical features. Mechanical features may include latches, springs, closers, hinges, chassis, supports, fasteners, or cantilevers, and the like. Performing a function may include using a logical feature. Logical features may include programming instructions. Programming instructions may be executable by at least one processor. Programming instructions may be stored on or encoded on a medium accessible by one or more processors. Additionally, in the following description, the phrases “operable to,” “adapted to,” “configured to,” “designed to,” “programmed to,” or “capable of” may be used appropriately. In some cases, they can be used interchangeably.

Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (eg, facility such as a building). Network infrastructure may be used for a variety of purposes, such as to provide telecommunications and/or electrical power (eg, current) services. Communication services may include high-bandwidth (eg, wireless and/or wired) communication services. The communication service may be for occupants of the facility and/or for users outside the facility (eg, building). The network infrastructure may operate in cooperation with, or in part substitute for, the infrastructure of one or more cellular carriers. The network infrastructure may be provided in a facility that includes tintable (eg, electrically switchable) windows. An example of a component of network infrastructure includes high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor or controller (which may include a processor). A network infrastructure may include and/or be operatively coupled to a wireless network. The network infrastructure may include wiring.

In some embodiments, the network infrastructure may include wiring. Wiring may include cables. Cables may include jackets, insulation, electrical wires, and/or optical fibers. A cable may include a cable assembly. The cable includes at least one optical cable, coaxial cable, twisted pair, direct buried cable, flexible cable, rechargeable cable, Heliax cable, non-metallic sheathed cable, metal sheathed cable, multicore cable, paired cable, portable cord ( portable cord), ribbon cable, shielded cable, single cable, structured cabling, submersible cable, twinax (twinax) cable, twin and earth (T&E) cable, twin-lead, and/or twisted pair. . A coaxial cable may have a characteristic impedance of up to about 50 or 75 ohms (eg, LMR-400), for example.

In some embodiments, the network infrastructure provides additional coverage. Additional coverage may go beyond that provided by the cellular carrier. The additional coverage may be (i) inside the building and/or (ii) outside the building. For example, the network infrastructure may provide and/or supplement a cellular carrier's ability to provide out-of-building coverage and any other capacity. For example, the network infrastructure may provide and/or supplement cellular coverage near a facility (eg, building). The facility vicinity may be, for example, at least about 10 m, 50 m, 100 m, 500 m, or 1000 meters (m) from the edge of the facility. The facility perimeter can be between any of the values noted above (eg, between about 10 m and about 1000 m, between about 10 m and about 500 m, or between about 500 m and about 1000 m). The building neighborhood may be within the facility's line of site. In some cases, the facility and its associated network infrastructure may serve as cellular towers.

High-speed and high-frequency communication protocols, such as fifth generation (5G) communication protocols, face challenges before they can be widely accepted and deployed. For example, compared to low frequency communication bands, high frequency bands may require more antennas. For example, it is estimated that deploying 5G cellular service in a given area will require more than twice as many antennas as needed to provide the same level of cellular service for fourth generation (4G) communication protocols. Some of these antennas may be provided in a facility or part of a facility. Consider an example of providing 5G coverage in urban canyons, such as Manhattan in New York City, or streets in major metropolitan areas such as Singapore. 5G services may require many antennas to provide adequate coverage and adequate capacity in these cities. Currently, there is a lack of public space (eg utility poles) where carriers can deploy additional antennas to provide adequate 5G coverage (and/or other cellular capacity). Private buildings lining urban canyons could provide locations for 5G antennas.

5G and other high-frequency protocols are susceptible to attenuation. 5G communications (particularly in high-frequency bands, such as in the range of about 6 to about 30 GHz) can be used, for example, in reinforced concrete on walls, aluminum-coated insulation (eg, in facility walls and floors), and Low-E films on glass. , and/or may be susceptible to attenuation by conductive structures such as glass electrochromic devices. To address this, active elements such as repeaters may be provided in the facility. For example, cellular repeaters may be placed in or proximate to walls, windows, floors, and/or ceilings that attenuate wireless signals.

When describing the cellular protocols disclosed herein, 5G is often used as an example. However, the disclosed embodiments relate to any wireless communication protocol or combination of protocols.

The communication infrastructure described herein can provide a variety of functions, some of which are listed here.

In some embodiments, one or more systems and/or devices described herein are configured to selectively attenuate (eg, block) and/or transmit wireless signals, for example, in a controllable manner. In various embodiments, systems and/or devices are configured such that transmission of wireless communications is based at least in part on location and/or time. In various embodiments, the system, apparatus, or any component thereof is configured to be at least partially automatically controlled (eg, fully automatically controlled). One or more components of the systems and/or devices described herein are fully automatically controlled. Controlled can include attenuated, modulated, altered, supervised, restrained, trained, modulated, restrained, supervised, manipulated, and/or guided. In some embodiments, control is achieved by using controllable active elements that receive, analyze, manipulate (eg, transform and/or compare) and/or retransmit signals. For example, (i) the receiving antenna can point in one direction on one side of the facility (e.g., in a wall or window), and (ii) the transmitter antenna can point in one direction on the other side of the facility (e.g., in another on a wall or window) in a different (eg opposite or substantially opposite) direction. Between the receiver and transmitter, active elements may include one or more transceivers and/or other signal transducers. In some embodiments, (I) when the active element is active (eg “on state”), it is transmitting a signal, and (II) when the active element is inactive (eg “off state”). when "), it is not sending a signal.

In some embodiments, the active element that receives and (eg, automatically) retransmits wireless communication signals is a repeater. A repeater can boost a signal and/or transmit it to a location that would not otherwise receive the signal. A repeater (or other active element) may include a specific antenna combination. An antenna combination may include one type of antenna inside a facility (eg, a building) and another type of antenna outside the facility (or opposite an interior wall or window). In conjunction with the description of the various antenna types herein, some embodiments employ a handle antenna outside a building operably coupled to one of the other antennas inside the building (eg, a microstrip antenna). In some implementations, one or both antennas are placed on a mullion feature, such as a beauty cap. Antennas may include isotropic, dipole, monopole, array, loop, conical, aperture, traveling wave, or random wire antennas. Loop antennas may include large loop (eg, quad, or half-loop), medium loop (eg, Halo), and/or small loop (eg, ferrite) antennas.

It has been observed that electrochromic windows can provide signal blocking in the range of insertion loss of about 10 dB to about 20 dB (eg, depending on the transmission frequency). Greater losses can occur at higher frequencies. Some embodiments disclosed herein employ radio retransmitters and/or repeaters to avoid signal blocking by electrochromic windows. In some embodiments, such retransmitters are disposed on or proximate to at least one Integrated Glass Unit (IGU). The IGU may include an electrochromic device (eg, comprising a layer structure).

In certain embodiments, the windows and/or walls include layers or structures that substantially (eg, completely) block radio transmissions, eg, over a range of spectral ranges. The layer structure may have an IGU. In one example, the blocking layer completely covers one surface of the lite (eg glass). Examples of blocking structures for windows are described in US patent application Ser. No. 15/709,339, filed on Sep. 19, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The security system may employ facility structures that attenuate (eg, dampen) the transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in certain regions of the spectrum (eg, in at least 5G regions), for example. Facility structures may include windows, doors, or walls. A security system (eg, employing a repeater) substantially (eg, effectively) blocks transmission of one or more electromagnetic signals in a certain region of the spectrum (eg, in at least a 5G region), for example. Walls and/or windows may be employed.

In some embodiments, signal repeaters and/or retransmitters do not need to retransmit (eg, directly) wireless signals across facility structures (eg, walls or windows). In some cases, it selectively transmits radio signals passing through the facility to one or more locations far from where the signals were received. It may communicate the received signal using a wired network, for example by running a communication protocol such as Ethernet. For example, an externally generated radio signal can be received on a sensor placed on the roof of a building (or on any other exterior wall) and from there to one or more remote locations within the facility (e.g., 10 below the roof). floor, e.g. to a basement) via wire.

In some cases, the retransmission system transmits a cellular signal (or other suitable radio signal) to a selected building location at one or more selected times, which may be delayed from the time the radio signal was initially received. A communication may be saved or its transmission delayed. Retransmission can be performed regardless of where and when the communication embodied in the cellular signal is received.

Considering that a large number of 5G antennas are expected to be required for adequate coverage and capacity in densely built-up areas, such as the center of a given large city, deploying 5G antennas on a part of the exterior of a building improves the antenna infrastructure of a carrier's cellular network. and data forwarding. In some cases, these antennas are connected to a high-bandwidth network infrastructure, such as an Ethernet network infrastructure within a building. An exemplary fully or partially wired network infrastructure for supporting such 5G applications is described in US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/803,324, filed February 8, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. do.

Various arrangements of antennas may be deployed to support 5G cellular and/or other communication services. Both coverage and capacity can be considered when designing a wireless communications infrastructure. Coverage may be addressed by providing a variety of strategically located antennas (eg, attached to, or as part of, a facility) to provide cellular service to a limited area. Capacity can be addressed by having high bandwidth data transfer lines and/or switches. Some examples of high-capacity infrastructure are provided in US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/803,324, filed February 8, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Capacity can also be addressed, for example, by providing multiple antennas within a limited area.

In certain embodiments, individual antennas are dedicated to specific protocols. At least one of the antennas (eg, each antenna) may have its own baseband radio. For example, one or more antennas may be designed for use with low power CBRS, including, for example, citizens broadband radio (CBRS) baseband radios. In the United States, CBRS is an approximately 150 MHz wide broadcast band in the approximately 3.5 GHz band (e.g., approximately 3550 MHz to approximately 3700 MHz), which may be used to provide wireless services not licensed by the Federal Communications Commission. . Other antennas and associated baseband radios may be provided for cellular communications, for example, according to specific protocols and/or jurisdictional restrictions (eg, rules and/or regulations). The necessary baseband radios may be installed at one or more locations in the facility, including, for example, in digital architectural elements. A digital architecture can refer to an aspect of an architecture characterized by one or more digital technologies.

Various embodiments support multiple frequency bands and/or multiple protocols. Examples include cellular (3G, 4G, and/or 5G, etc.). Examples include local area networking of devices and/or Internet access. Examples include wireless networks including WLAN (eg, WiFi) and/or associated applications such as voice over WLAN. Examples include Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). A given antenna (or combination of antennas) can be protocol independent. The associated transmitter and/or receiver may be protocol independent. For example, carrier A and carrier B may use different radios (eg, different channels using MoCA for networking over coaxial cable). A similar antenna structure may be used to transmit and/or receive signals for multiple protocols.

A 5G network may have Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLC), and/or Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC). eMBB can use 5G as an evolution from 4G LTE mobile broadband services. A 5G network may exhibit faster connectivity, higher throughput, and/or more capacity compared to a 4G network. URLLC can refer to using the network for applications that require uninterrupted and/or robust data exchange. The mMTC can be used to connect to a large number of low electrical power (eg, current), low cost devices, which have, for example, high scalability over a large area and/or increased battery life.

In some embodiments, a 5G network will transmit at least about 1 Gbit/s of data per second (Gbit/s), 2 Gbit/s, 3 Gbit/s, or 5 Gbit/s. In some embodiments, the 5G air latency target is at least about 1 millisecond (ms), 2ms, 3ms, 4ms, 5ms, 8ms, 10ms, 11ms, 15ms, or 30ms. 5G air latency targets can be up to about 2ms, 3ms, 4ms, 5ms, 8ms, 10ms, 12ms, 15ms, 30ms, or 40ms. The 5G air latency target may have any value between the aforementioned values (eg, about 1 to about 4 ms, about 3 ms to about 10 ms, about 8 ms to about 12 ms, or about 12 ms to about 40 ms).

In some embodiments, certain infrastructure includes devices for internal (eg, in-building) communication over 5G protocols, eg, not supporting Wi-Fi. Multiple 5G antennas can be deployed throughout a building (eg, when 5G may be limited to line-of-sight). The antenna may be placed in one or more locations where Wi-Fi antennas are typically present. In some installations, 5G will have sufficient bandwidth and/or coverage to provide one or more (eg, all) of the features that Wi-Fi currently provides.

In some embodiments, an enclosure includes an area defined by at least one structure. At least one structure may include at least one wall. An enclosure may contain and/or enclose one or more sub-enclosures. At least one wall may be made of metal (eg, steel), clay, stone, plastic, glass, plaster (eg, gypsum), polymer (eg, polyurethane, styrene, or vinyl), asbestos, or fiberglass. , concrete (eg, reinforced concrete), wood, paper, or ceramic. At least one wall may include wire, brick, block (eg, cinder block), tile, drywall, or frame (eg, steel frame).

In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more openings. One or more openings may be reversibly closable. One or more openings may be permanently open. The fundamental length scale of one or more openings may be smaller than the fundamental length scale of the wall(s) defining the enclosure. The basic length scale may include the diameter, length, width, or height of the bounding circle. A surface of one or more openings may be smaller than a surface of the wall(s) defining the enclosure. Aperture surface can be a percentage of the total surface of the wall(s). For example, the aperture surface may be about 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or 1% of the wall(s) in dimension. The wall(s) may include a floor, ceiling or sidewall. The closable opening may be closed by at least one window or door. An enclosure may be at least part of a facility. An enclosure may contain at least a portion of a building. The building may be a private building and/or a commercial building. A building may contain one or more floors. A building (eg its floor) is a room, hall, foyer, attic, basement, balcony (eg internal or external balcony), stairway, hallway, elevator shaft, fagade, mezzanine ( mezzanine), penthouse, garage, porch (eg, enclosed porch), terrace (eg, enclosed terrace), cafeteria, and/or at least one of a duct. In some embodiments, an enclosure may be stationary and/or movable (eg, train, airplane, ship, vehicle, or rocket). A facility may contain one or more enclosures. Facilities may be stationary or mobile. For example, facilities may include temporary vehicles such as cars, RVs, fishing boats, trains, airplanes, helicopters, ships, or boats. For example, a facility may include one or more buildings.

In some embodiments, the enclosure encloses an atmosphere. The atmosphere may contain one or more gases. The gas may include an inert gas (eg, argon or nitrogen) and/or a gas that is not inert (eg, oxygen or carbon dioxide). The enclosure atmosphere may include at least one external environment including temperature, relative gas content, gas type (eg, humidity, and/or oxygen level), debris (eg, dust and/or pollen), and/or gas velocity. Atmosphere characteristics may be similar to the atmosphere outside the enclosure (eg, ambient atmosphere). The enclosure atmosphere may include at least one external environment including temperature, relative gas content, gas type (eg, humidity, and/or oxygen level), debris (eg, dust and/or pollen), and/or gas velocity. The atmosphere characteristics may be different from the atmosphere outside the enclosure. For example, the enclosure atmosphere may be less humid (eg, drier) than the outside (eg ambient) atmosphere. For example, the enclosure atmosphere may contain the same (eg, or substantially similar) oxygen to nitrogen ratio as the atmosphere outside the enclosure. The velocity of the gas within the enclosure may be similar (eg substantially) throughout the enclosure. The velocity of the gas within the enclosure can be different in different parts of the enclosure (eg, by flowing the gas through a vent coupled with the enclosure).

Certain disclosed embodiments provide a network infrastructure within an enclosure (eg, facility such as a building). Network infrastructure can be used for a variety of purposes, such as to provide telecommunications and/or electrical power services. Communication services may include high-bandwidth (eg, wireless and/or wired) communication services. The communication service may be for occupants of the facility and/or for users outside the facility (eg, building). The network infrastructure may operate in cooperation with, or in part substitute for, the infrastructure of one or more cellular carriers. The network infrastructure may be provided in a facility that includes electrically switchable windows. An example of a component of a network infrastructure includes high-speed backhaul. The network infrastructure may include at least one cable, switch, physical antenna, transceiver, sensor, transmitter, receiver, radio, processor, and/or controller (which may include a processor). A network infrastructure may include and/or be operatively coupled to a wireless network. The network infrastructure may include wiring. One or more sensors may be deployed (eg, installed) in the environment as part of and/or after installing the network.

In various embodiments, the network infrastructure supports a control system for one or more windows, such as electrochromic (eg, tintable) windows. A control system may include one or more controllers operably coupled (eg, directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. Although the disclosed embodiments describe an electrochromic window (also referred to herein as an “optically switchable window,” “tintable window,” or “smart window”), the concepts disclosed herein do not device, or suspended particle device (SPD), nanochromics display (NCD), organic electroluminescent display (OELD), suspended particle device (SPD), nanochromic display (NCD), or organic It can be applied to other types of switchable optical devices including electroluminescent displays (OELDs). The display element may be attached to a portion of the transparent body (eg, window). For example, a liquid crystal device and/or a suspended particle device may be implemented instead of or in addition to an electrochromic device. Tintable windows may be placed within a (non-temporary) facility, such as a building, and/or within any other enclosure, such as within a temporary vehicle such as an automobile, RV, fishing boat, train, airplane, helicopter, watercraft, or boat.

In some embodiments, a tintable window exhibits a (eg, controllable and/or reversible) change in at least one optical property of the window, eg, when a stimulus is applied. Stimulation may include optical, electrical, and/or magnetic stimulation. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows may be used to control lighting and/or glare conditions, for example, by modulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through it. One or more tintable windows may be used to control the temperature within an enclosure (eg, building), for example, by modulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through it. Control of solar energy can control the heat load imposed on the interior of an enclosure (eg, a facility such as a building). Control can be manual and/or automatic. Controls may be used to maintain one or more requested (eg, environmental) conditions, such as occupant comfort. Control may include reducing energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and/or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system (abbreviated herein as “HVAC”). In some cases, a tintable window can be responsive to (eg, and communicatively coupled to) one or more environmental sensors and/or user controls. The tintable window may include an electrochromic window (eg, may be an electrochromic window). The windows may range from the inside to the outside of an enclosure structure (eg, a facility such as a building). However, this need not be the case. The tintable window may be a liquid crystal device, a suspended particle device, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device (eg, a microshutter), or any now known or hereafter developed, configured to control light transmission through the window. It can operate using technology. Windows (e.g., with MEMS devices for tinting) are disclosed in US Patent Application No. 14/443,353, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, one or more tintable windows may be located inside an enclosure (eg, building), eg, between a conference room and a hallway. In some cases, one or more tintable windows may be used in automobiles, trains, aircraft, and other vehicles, for example in lieu of manual and/or non-tinting windows.

In some embodiments, the tintable window includes an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an “EC device” (abbreviated herein as ECD), or “EC”). The EC device may include at least one coating comprising at least one layer. At least one layer may include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another when a potential is applied across the EC device, for example. The transition of an electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be, for example, reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion into the electrochromic material (eg, by intercalation) and It can be caused by the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. For example, the transition of an electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be caused by, for example, reversible ion insertion into the electrochromic material (eg, by intercalation) and corresponding charge-balancing electrons. Can be caused by injection. Reversible can be for the expected lifetime of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (eg, noticeable) degradation in the reversibility of the tint of a window over one or more tinting cycles. In some cases, the fraction of the ions responsible for the optical transition is irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., and thus, the induced (altered) tint state of the window returns to its original tinted state. not reversible). In various EC devices, at least some (eg, all) of the irreversibly bound ions may be used to compensate for “blind charge” in the material (eg, ECD).

In some embodiments, suitable ions include cations. Cations may include lithium ions (Li+) and/or hydrogen ions (H+) (ie, protons). In some embodiments, other ions may be suitable. Intercalation of cations may be present in the (eg metal) oxide. Changes in the intercalation state of ions (eg, cations) into the oxide can lead to visible changes in the tint (eg, color) of the oxide. For example, oxides can transition from a colorless state to a colored state. For example, intercalation of lithium ions into tungsten oxide (WO3-y (0 < y ≤ about 0.3)) can cause the tungsten oxide to change from a transparent state to a colored (eg, blue) state. . An EC device coating as described herein is placed within the visible portion of the tintable window such that tinting of the EC device coating can be used to control the optical state of the tintable window.

In some embodiments, the enclosure includes one or more sensors. Sensors may determine whether the occupants of the enclosure are more comfortable, pleasant, beautiful, healthy, productive (eg, in terms of occupant performance), easier to live (eg, work), or any of these factors. It can facilitate controlling the environment of an enclosure, so that it can have any combination of environments. The sensor(s) may be configured as low resolution or high resolution sensors. A sensor may provide an on/off indication of the presence and/or occurrence of a particular environmental event (eg, one pixel sensor). In some embodiments, the accuracy and/or resolution of a sensor may be improved through artificial intelligence analysis of its measurements. Examples of artificial intelligence techniques that may be used include reaction, limited memory, theory of mind, and/or self-awareness techniques known to those skilled in the art. Sensors may include data of the environment (eg of the enclosure), temperature, humidity, sound, force, pressure, electromagnetic waves, position, distance, motion, flow, acceleration, speed, vibration, dust, light, glare, color, gas (s), and/or other aspects (eg, characteristics) may be configured to process, measure, analyze, detect, and/or react thereto. Gases may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The gas may include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, water vapor (eg, moisture), oxygen, radon, and/or hydrogen sulfide. One or more sensors may be calibrated at factory settings. The sensor may be optimized to make accurate measurements of one or more environmental properties present in a factory setting. In some cases, factory calibrated sensors may be less optimized for operation in the target environment. For example, a factory setting may include a different environment than the target environment. The target environment may be an environment in which a sensor is deployed. The target environment may be an environment in which the sensor is expected and/or predetermined to operate. The target environment may be different from the factory environment. The factory environment corresponds to the location where the sensor was assembled and/or manufactured. A target environment may include a factory where the sensor was not assembled and/or manufactured. In some cases, the factory settings may differ from the target environment to the extent that sensor readings captured in the target environment are erroneous (eg measurable). In this context, "incorrect" may refer to a sensor reading that deviate from a certain accuracy (eg, specified by the manufacture of the sensor). In some situations, a factory-calibrated sensor may provide readings that do not meet accuracy specifications (eg, by the manufacturer) when operated in a target environment.

In some embodiments, the sensor(s) are operatively coupled to at least one controller and/or processor. Sensor readings may be obtained by one or more processors and/or controllers. A controller may include a processing unit (eg, CPU or GPU). The controller can receive input (eg, from at least one sensor). The controller may include circuitry, electrical wiring, optical wiring, sockets, and/or outlets. A controller can deliver an output. A controller may include multiple (eg sub-) controllers. A controller may be part of a control system. The control system may include a master controller, a network controller (eg, floor controller), or a local controller. A local controller may control one or more targets (eg, devices). For example, a local controller can be a window controller (eg, controlling an optically switchable window), an enclosure controller, or a target (eg, component) controller. For example, a controller may be a hierarchical control system (e.g., a network controller directing one or more controllers, a local controller (e.g., a window controller), an enclosure controller, and/or a target (e.g., For example, it may be part of a component) including a main controller instructing the controller. The physical location of controller types in a hierarchical control system can vary. For example, at a first time: a first processor may assume the role of a primary controller, a second processor may assume the role of a network controller, and a third processor may assume the role of a local controller. At a second time: the second processor may assume the role of the main controller, the first processor may assume the role of the network controller, and the third processor may remain in the role of the local controller. At a third time: the third processor may take on the role of the main controller, the second processor may take on the role of the network controller, and the first processor may take the role of the local controller. A controller may control one or more devices (eg, may be directly coupled to a device). A controller may be placed proximate to one or more devices it is controlling. For example, a controller may include an optically switchable device (eg, an IGU), an antenna, a sensor, and/or an output device (eg, a light source, a sound source, an odor source, a gas source, an HVAC outlet, or a heater). can control. In one embodiment, a network controller may direct one or more local controllers, one or more enclosure controllers, one or more target (eg, component) controllers, or any combination thereof. The network controller may include a floor controller. For example, a network (eg, including a floor) controller may control a plurality of local (eg, including a window) controller. A plurality of local controllers may be located within a portion of a facility (eg, within a portion of a building). A portion of the facility may be a floor of the facility. For example, a network controller can be assigned to a floor. In some embodiments, a floor may include multiple network controllers, for example depending on the floor size and/or the number of local controllers coupled to the network controller. For example, a network controller may be assigned to a portion of a floor. For example, a network controller may be assigned a subset of local controllers deployed within a facility. For example, a network controller may be assigned to a portion of a facility's floor. A master controller may be coupled to one or more network controllers. The network controller may be located within the facility. The master controller may be located within the facility or outside the facility. A master controller can be deployed in the cloud. The controller may be part of or operatively coupled to a building management system (abbreviated herein as “BMS”). A controller may receive one or more inputs. A controller may produce one or more outputs. The controller can be a single input single output controller (SISO) or multiple input multiple output controller (MIMO). A controller may interpret the received input signal. A controller may obtain data from one or more targets (eg, components such as sensors). Acquisition may include reception or extraction. Data may include measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feed-forward control. Control may include on-off control, proportional control, proportional integral (Pl) control, or proportional integral derivative (PID) control. Control may include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller may include closed loop control. The controller may include open loop control. The controller may include a user interface. The user interface may include (or be operatively coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. Output may include a display (eg, screen), a speaker, or a printer. The controller may perform real-time calculations (eg, using communicated data such as analysis of the cabling network and/or sensor data). Network analysis can relate to communication density, communication rate, and/or (eg, electrical) power consumption on a network (eg, at a given time and/or in a given time frame). A controller (eg, control system) may use historical and/or third party data for its control. Historical data may be from a facility, or from a similar facility, or from a different facility.

1 shows an example of a control system architecture 100 that includes a master controller 108 that controls a network controller 106 , which in turn controls a local controller 104 . In some embodiments, the local controller controls one or more IGUs, one or more sensors, one or more output devices (eg, one or more emitters), or any combination thereof. 1 illustrates an example configuration in which a master controller is operatively coupled (eg, wirelessly and/or wired) to a building management system (BMS) 124 and database 120 . Arrows in Fig. 1 indicate communication paths. The controller may be operatively coupled (eg, directly/indirectly and/or wired and/or wirelessly) to the external source 110 . External sources can include networks. An external source may include one or more sensors or output devices. External sources may include cloud-based applications and/or databases. Communication may be wired and/or wireless. External sources may be located outside the facility. For example, the external source may include one or more sensors and/or antennas disposed, for example, on a wall or on the ceiling of a facility. Communication can be unidirectional or bidirectional. In the example shown in Figure 1, all communication arrows are intended to be bi-directional.

A controller may monitor and/or direct changes in operating conditions of devices, software, and/or methods described herein. Control can include adjusting, manipulating, limiting, directing, monitoring, adjusting, tampering, altering, mutating, inhibiting, confirming, guiding, or managing. Controlled (e.g., by a controller) may include attenuated, modulated, altered, supervised, restrained, trained, modulated, restrained, supervised, manipulated, and/or guided. have. Control may include controlling a controlled variable (eg, temperature, power, voltage, and/or profile). Control can include real-time or offline control. Calculations used by the controller may be performed in real time and/or offline. The controller may be a manual or non-manual controller. The controller may be an automatic controller. The controller can act upon request. The controller may be a programmable controller. The controller can be programmed. A controller may include a processing unit (eg, CPU or GPU). The controller can receive input (eg, from at least one sensor). A controller can deliver an output. A controller may include multiple (eg sub-) controllers. A controller may be part of a control system. The control system may include a master controller, network controller, local controller (eg enclosure controller, or window controller). A controller may receive one or more inputs. A controller may produce one or more outputs. The controller can be a single input single output controller (SISO) or multiple input multiple output controller (MIMO). A controller may interpret the received input signal. A controller may obtain data from one or more sensors. Acquisition may include reception or extraction. Data may include measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controller may include feedback control. The controller may include feed-forward control. Control may include on-off control, proportional control, proportional integral (Pl) control, or proportional integral derivative (PID) control. Control can include open-loop control, or closed-loop control. The controller may include closed loop control. the controller

Can include open loop control. The controller may include a user interface. The user interface may include (or be operatively coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. Output may include a display (eg, screen), a speaker, or a printer.

The methods, systems and/or apparatus described herein may include a control system. A control system may be in communication with any of the devices (eg, sensors) described herein. The sensors may be of the same type or of a different type, for example as described herein. For example, the control system may be in communication with the first sensor and/or the second sensor. A control system may control one or more sensors. A control system may control one or more targets (eg, components) of a building management system (eg, lighting, security, and/or air conditioning systems). The controller may adjust at least one (eg, environmental) characteristic of the enclosure. The control system may regulate the environment of the enclosure using any target (eg, component) of the building management system. For example, the control system may regulate the energy supplied by the heating element and/or by the cooling element. For example, the control system may regulate the speed of air flowing through the vents into and/or out of the enclosure. A control system may include a processor. A processor may be a processing unit. A controller may include a processing unit. The processing unit may be centralized. A processing unit may include a central processing unit (abbreviated herein as “CPU”). The processing unit may be a graphics processing unit (abbreviated herein as “GPU”). The controller(s) or control mechanisms (including, for example, a computer system) may be programmed to implement one or more methods of the present disclosure. A processor may be programmed to implement the methods of the present disclosure. A controller may control at least one target (eg, component) of a forming system and/or apparatus disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, multiple targets (eg, devices) may be operatively (eg, communicatively) coupled to the control system. A control system may include a hierarchy of controllers. A target may include an emitter, a sensor, or a window (eg, an IGU). Emitters may include lights, buzzers, heaters, HVAC actuators, or alarms. The target may be any target as disclosed herein. At least two of the plurality of targets may be of the same type. For example, two or more IGUs may be coupled to a control system. At least two of the plurality of targets may be of different types. For example, a sensor and emitter may be coupled to a control system. At times, the plurality of targets may include at least 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10000, 50000, 100000, or 500000 targets. The plurality of targets can be any number in between the aforementioned numbers (e.g., 20 targets to 500000 targets, 20 targets to 50 targets, 50 targets to 500 targets, 500 targets to 2500 targets, 1000 targets). target to 5000 targets, 5000 targets to 10000 targets, 10000 targets to 100000 targets, or 100000 targets to 500000 targets). For example, the number of windows in a floor may be at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, or 50. The number of windows in the floor may be any number between the above numbers (eg, 5 to 50, 5 to 25, or 25 to 50). Sometimes, the target may be in a multi-story building. At least a portion of a floor of a multi-story building may have a target controlled by a control system (eg, at least a portion of a floor of a multi-story building may be controlled by a control system). For example, a multi-story building may have at least 2, 8, 10, 25, 50, 80, 100, 120, 140, or 160 floors controlled by a control system. The number of floors (e.g., targets therein) controlled by the control system may be any number between the foregoing numbers (e.g., 2 to 50, 25 to 100, or 80 to 160) can The floor may be of an area of at least about 150 m ² , 250 m ² , 500 m ² , 1000 m ² , 1500 m ² , or 2000 square meters (m ² ). A floor may have an area between any of the foregoing floor area values (eg, from about 150 m ² to about 2000 m ² , from about 150 m ² to about 500 m ² , from about 250 m ² to about 1000 m ² , or from about 1000 m ² to about 2000 m ² ). The total length of cabling in a cabling network system is at least about 500 feet ('), 1000 feet, depending on the size of the facility, the number and type of targets to which the cabling system is coupled, and the coverage of the facility by the cabling system. ', 10000', or 100000'.

In some embodiments, portions of an enclosure's (eg, building's) communication network may be logically and/or physically divided into one or more vertical data planes and one or more horizontal data planes. A function of the vertical data plane may be to provide data communication and, optionally, electrical power perpendicular to the earth (eg, between floors of a multi-story building). A function of the horizontal data plane may be to provide data communications and/or electrical power to network nodes on one or more floors of a facility (eg, building). In some embodiments, the communications network of the enclosure (eg, building) employs a vertical plane that is linked to multiple horizontal data planes by a control panel. At least one control panel may be provided for each horizontal data plane.

In certain embodiments, the infrastructure described herein provides communication networks and electrical power resources around the perimeter of an enclosure (eg, building) and, optionally, all floors of a facility (eg, building). Provide a separate communication and electrical power distribution system on each floor or on each of a plurality of floors. The infrastructure may be installed when the enclosure (eg building) is constructed or as part of a renovation. Infrastructure may be located at specific locations throughout a building, for example, on floors, around the perimeter walls of rooms, along ceilings, along floors, or in other areas of a facility such as a building (e.g., Gbit and more high-speed communications (at high data rates) and electrical power taps.

In certain embodiments, direct connection to the infrastructure of a facility (eg, building) is provided through electrical power and/or communication docks in devices such as the network adapters described herein. Wires connecting to the network adapter may be bundled at various locations, such as in the walls of an enclosure (eg, building). In some embodiments, one or more wires are placed in horizontal mullions above and/or below the window. In certain embodiments, one or more wires are disposed below the surface of the floor, such as within a floor plate.

In various embodiments, a link in the vertical data plane is a link between network devices (eg, devices communicatively coupled to a network). One or more network devices may be deployed on the same floor and/or on different floors of a facility (eg, building). In some embodiments, one or more floors (eg, each of them) in a facility (eg, building) have network devices (eg, network switches and/or network routers). A network device can be connected to two or more links in the vertical data plane. A network device may be provided within the control panel. In certain embodiments, the link medium (in the vertical plane) includes and/or consists of one or more optical fibers. In certain embodiments, current carrying wire(s) are used instead of and/or in conjunction with optical fibers, for example as link media (eg, in the vertical data plane). The fiber(s) can be placed in horizontal and/or vertical data planes. Current carrying wire(s), such as copper wire(s), may be provided as twisted pair and/or coaxial cables. In some embodiments, the (eg, vertical) data plane includes fiber bundles running between network devices (eg, disposed on different floors of a facility (eg, building)). As an example, links 213, 215, or 217 in the (eg, vertical) data plane shown in FIG. 2 may (eg, each) include a bundle of fibers. In certain embodiments, at least one (eg, each) fiber bundle may include at least 12, 24, 48, 96, or 114 optical fibers.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the optical fiber(s) may be used for communication within the enclosure. At least a portion of the optical fibers may be unused (eg, unused fiber(s) may be referred to herein as “dark fiber(s)”). In some implementations, during or after installation, some fibers are used in the information technology (IT) and/or other service infrastructure of an enclosure (eg, building), while some other fibers are "dark." The dark fibers may, at least temporarily, be unavailable for IT and/or services (eg sensors, windows, HVAC, lighting, security) of the enclosure. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems may be abbreviated herein as “HVAC.” Services may include controlling the operation of one or more devices. Devices may include sensors, tintable windows, heaters, coolers (eg, air conditioners), ventilators, lights, security, emitters, antennas, or actuators. In some embodiments, at least about 1/10, 1/5, 1/4, 1/3, or 1/2 (half) of the installed fibers are initially, upon installation, dark. In some embodiments, at least about 1/10, 1/5, 1/4, 1/3, or 1/2 (half) of the installed fibers are initially, upon installation, not dark. Dark fibers may be used to lease as a service to tenants and/or other enclosure occupants. Examples of rented services may include Wi-Fi, cellular communications, streaming Internet, and any other IT-related service used by the occupant and/or tenant.

In certain embodiments, the data plane has a topology (eg, wires and/or devices operatively coupled to wires are configured with the topology). The topology can be a linear or star topology. For example, the (eg horizontal) data plane can have a linear network topology. In a linear topology, the network topology may include a control panel at one end of the data transmission medium and multiple nodes connected along the length of the data transmission medium (downstream from the control panel). In some implementations, the transmission medium (eg, network cable such as coaxial and/or twisted pair cable) is located around some or all of the perimeter of the floor of the facility. In some implementations, there are electrical connection(s) for connecting to one or more nodes (eg, end nodes) at one or more locations along the network cable, optionally through a network adapter. An end node may include any of the devices disclosed herein (eg, sensors, emitters, tintable windows, HVAC systems, or lights). In some implementations, the electrical coupling is a cap that is a passive device. A cap may provide electrical coupling between a network cable and an associated node (eg, any one of the devices served by the horizontal data plane). In some embodiments, electrical couplings are provided at regular intervals (eg, about every 5 feet), eg, to (eg, vertical) mullions. A node may be an infrastructure node. Infrastructure nodes may include floor controllers, Ethernet switches, and/or head ends.

15-18 described herein illustrate embodiments of horizontal data planes using ring and/or star topologies.

2 shows one embodiment of a communication network 200 for an enclosure such as a building. The example shown in FIG. 2 illustrates a link that may include one or more cables (eg, coaxial cables or twisted cables). A link may be a communication and/or electrical power line. A cable may be a bundle of cables. A bundle of cables may transmit electrical power and/or communications. Cables (eg, coaxial cables) can transmit electrical power and/or communications. In the illustrated embodiment, network 200 is a vertically oriented network portion (vertical communication lines 205) connecting network targets (eg, components) on multiple floors (eg, of a facility) of an enclosure. including). In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the vertical data plane includes the first control panel 207 on the first floor, the second control panel 209 on the second floor, and the third control panel 211 on the third floor. do. A physical communication and/or electrical power link 213 connects the control panels 207 and 209 . A physical communication and/or electrical power link 215 connects the control panels 209 and 211 . A physical communication and/or electrical power link 217 connects the control panels 207 and 211 . As illustrated, control panels 207, 209 and 211 form a loop with physical communication and/or power links 213, 215 and 217. Loops can provide redundancy in a network. As an example, physical communication and/or electrical power link 217 provides redundancy on a vertical plane if one of the other physical communication and/or electrical power links (eg, link 213 or 215) fails. do. Communication links 213, 215, 217 may include electrical wires and/or optical fibers. Communications and/or links 213, 215, 217 may include coaxial wires.

In the example shown in FIG. 2 , control panel 207 is communicatively coupled (eg, connected) to external network 201 (eg, outside a building and/or in a cloud) via access network 203 . )do. The control panel 207 is communicatively coupled (eg, connected) to the access network 203 by a physical communication and/or electrical power link 204, which may include fiber optics and/or electrical wires. The control panel 207 is connected to an antenna 289 outside the building. Antenna 289 may be a receiving antenna (eg, a donor antenna).

FIG. 2 shows an example of a control panel 207 operatively coupled to (eg connected to) a first horizontal network portion, which is the horizontal data plane 219 . The control panel 209 is operably coupled (eg connected) to the second horizontal network portion, which is the horizontal data plane 221 . The control panel 211 is operably coupled (eg connected) to a third horizontal network portion, which is the horizontal data plane 223 . Horizontal data planes 219, 221, 223 include multiple network targets (eg, components and/or devices). A network target (eg component) may include a client node. A client node may be located on each floor of the building.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, horizontal data plane 219 includes network adapters 251a through 251e. A network adapter (eg, 251a) is coupled to a communication and/or electrical power line (eg, mains) 259 via a distribution junction (eg, 290). Network adapter 251a is coupled to a set of targets (eg, sensors and/or emitters) 253 and coupled to IGU 255, which may be an optically switchable window. Network adapter 251a is configured to provide electrical power and data to a set of targets 253 (also referred to herein as a “target ensemble”) using, for example, a PoE protocol. Network adapter 251d is coupled to at least one third party device 257, such as a computing device. Network adapter 251d is configured to provide network connectivity to third party device 257 . Providing network connectivity may include logic implementing Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP), for example supporting PoE.

In the example shown in FIG. 2 , control panel 207 is connected to network adapters 251a to 251e by a link (eg, coaxial cable) 259 . Connections can be made by coaxial or other types of (eg, electrical and/or optical) cables. Control panel 209 is connected to client nodes on horizontal data plane 221 by link (eg coaxial cable) 261 . Control panel 211 is connected to client nodes on horizontal data plane 223 by link (eg coaxial cable) 263 . In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the control panel 207 includes two head ends 265a and 265b, a switch 267 (abbreviated herein as “SW”) and a distributed antenna system (herein referred to as “DAS”). abbreviated as ") (269). The switch is operably coupled (eg, connected) to the two edge distribution frame devices (abbreviated herein as "EDF"). Head end 265a is connected to a number of links (eg, coaxial cables) including link (eg, coaxial cables) 259 . Although not shown, the head end 265b is connected to at least one link (eg, coaxial cable). A switch 267 is coupled to the (eg, telecommunications and/or electrical power) links 204, 213, and 217. Connections may be made via optical and/or electrical cable(s). DAS 269 is configured to control and/or communicate with one or more antennas, including antenna 273 , on horizontal data plane 219 . The antenna may be an internal building antenna (eg 273 ) and/or an external (eg donor) antenna (eg 289 ). In the example shown in FIG. 2 , an electrical power and/or communication link (eg, cable) 271 connects the antenna 273 to the control panel 207 . Link 271 is also coupled to a directional coupler (eg configured for a directional data communication protocol such as MoCA or d.hn). Other client nodes 275a and 275b are connected to control panel 207 via electrical power and/or communication links (eg, cables) 271 . The head ends 265a, 265b are traditionally used to deliver (i) a next-generation home networking protocol (abbreviated herein as the "G.hn" protocol), (ii) electrical power (e.g., only). (iii) hardware devices designed for communication and transmission of data over a building's electrical wiring (e.g., Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi); It is configured to transmit and/or receive data encoded according to one or more protocols. The data transfer protocol may facilitate data transfer rates of at least 1 gigabit per second (Gbit/s), 2 Gbit/s, 3 Gbit/s, 4 Gbit/s, or 5 Gbit/s. The data transmission protocol may operate over telephone wires, coaxial cables, electrical power lines, and/or (eg, plastic) optical fibers. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using a chip (eg, including a semiconductor device). In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the horizontal data plane 221 includes a network adapter 277 connected to the control panel 209 by a link (eg coaxial cable) 279 .

The horizontal data plane 221 provides physical power (e.g., 48V DC) and/or (electrical power and/or communication) lines 281 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to the control panel 209. ). Horizontal data plane 223, in addition to link (eg coaxial cable) 263, a second link (not shown) for connecting one or more network adapters or other client nodes (not shown) to control panel 211. eg, coaxial cable) 283. Horizontal data plane 223 includes physical (eg, electrical power and/or communication) lines 285 for connecting one or more antennas (not shown) to control panel 211 . Control panel 211 is also coupled to (eg cellular) antenna 287 .

In certain embodiments, the control panel may be configured with protocols such as G.hn, Ethernet (including via the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) protocol), and/or fourth generation (4G) and/or fifth generation ( 5G) one or more head ends configured to communicate via any one or more of various cellular protocols, such as cellular communication. 4G communication may comply with Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standards. A control panel may include one or more network switches, gateways, and/or routers.

In some embodiments, the cabling network includes at least one distribution junction (referred to herein as a "splitter" and "junction"). The distribution junction may include at least one connector. A distribution junction may distribute one or more time-varying signals and/or electrical (eg, DC) power within a network infrastructure. A distribution junction may couple two or more circuits together. As an example, a distribution junction may couple together at least two of an upstream circuit, a downstream circuit, and a branch circuit. Upstream and downstream circuits may be part of a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk line). In some embodiments, a bus transmits data (eg, signals) to targets (eg, components) and/or electrical (eg, DC) power between those targets (eg, components). This is the subsystem used to connect. Distribution junctions can be passive or active. A distribution junction may include active and passive targets (eg components). A distribution junction can include one or more paths within an upstream circuit, a downstream circuit, and a branch circuit that are electrically coupled together. The distribution junction may include or be operatively coupled to a microprocessor. The cabling network may include passive distribution splices and/or active distribution splices. An active distribution junction has at least one active component. A passive dispensing junction has passive component(s) and no active components.

In some embodiments, the active distribution junction includes circuitry (eg, electrical circuitry). Circuitry within an active distribution junction may include signal repeaters, range extenders, signal transponders, amplifiers, preamplifiers, power management circuitry, and/or microprocessors. Power management circuitry may control (eg, monitor and/or manage) electrical (eg, DC) power flow through the distribution junction. Active distribution junctions can facilitate the formation of longer network buses (eg, signal repeaters and/or amplifiers can extend the actual length of the network bus). Active distribution junctions may provide options for dynamically sizing (eg, lengthening) the network (eg, by adding signal repeaters and/or amplifiers). Sizing the network may include resizing the network bus. A dynamic network sizing option may provide for dynamic extension and/or contraction of the network. Dynamic network sizing options can facilitate formation of unstable networks, eg, in terms of their size and/or connectivity of targets to distribution junctions. An active distribution junction can facilitate power management in a network infrastructure. For example, (i) by monitoring the voltage and/or current along a network (eg, along a network bus), and/or (ii) by monitoring a target (eg, component) coupled to a branch circuit. It does so by negotiating power consumption.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. A passive distribution junction may include one or more capacitors, inductors, and/or transformers. Passive distribution junctions provide (i) a first inductor coupled electrical (eg, DC) power, eg, from an upstream circuit to a branch circuit (or vice versa), and/or (ii) eg, an upstream A second inductor coupled electrical (eg, DC) power from the circuit to the downstream circuit (or vice versa). The passive distribution junction may include at least one transformer. At least one transformer may couple one or more time-varying signals between two or more circuits (eg, between three circuits). The passive dispensing junction may include one or more filters.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction provides impedance matching. In some embodiments, the distribution junction may include a transformer. For example, implementation of a distribution junction using a transformer can provide impedance matching. Impedance matching can serve to reduce (eg, eliminate) unwanted signal reflections from distribution junctions within the network infrastructure. A transformer may include a plurality of windings. At least two (eg, all) of the plurality of windings may be formed from the same number of turns around a common core (eg, to provide a balanced transformer). At least two (eg, all) of the plurality of windings may be formed from different numbers of turns around a common core (eg, to provide an unbalanced transformer). At least two (eg all) of the windings may have the same diameter. At least two (eg all) of the windings may have different diameters. The transformer (in the distribution junction) can be configured to split the time-varying signal in a balanced or unbalanced manner. A balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal on a first circuit and divide the signal equally over a plurality of circuits. Equal division of a signal into multiple circuits can be such that the signals in each of the multiple circuits are approximately (eg, measurably) equal. For example, a balanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal on a first circuit and divides the signal equally (eg, approximately half of the original power) onto second and third circuits. An unbalanced transformer can receive a time-varying signal on a first circuit and divide the signal unequally over a plurality of circuits. The unequal division of the signal into the plurality of circuits may be such that the signals in at least two circuits of the plurality of circuits are different. For example, an unbalanced transformer transfers a signal from a first circuit onto a second circuit at a first fraction (eg, 85%) of the original (eg, electrical) power and a second fraction (eg, electrical) of the original power. For example, 15%) can be divided into third circuit phases. The first fraction and the second fraction are not equal and add up to approximately 100% (eg, 100% without deducting losses). When the first circuit signal (100%) is non-uniformly divided into the second circuit and the third circuit, the second circuit is at most about 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% of the signal from the first circuit. %, 25%, 30%, or 40%, and the third circuit may receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuit. When dividing the first circuit signal (100%) non-uniformly into the second circuit and the third circuit, the second circuit is between the aforementioned percentage values from the first circuit (e.g., from about 1% to about 40%, from about 1% to about 20%, or from about 20% to about 40%), and the third circuitry can receive the remainder of the signal from the first circuitry. The second circuit (eg, the circuit receiving the lower signal strength) can be a branch circuit, and the third circuit can be, for example, a downstream circuit that allows most of the signal to continue along the network bus. In another embodiment, the first circuit (eg, the circuit receiving the higher signal strength) is a branch circuit that allows most of the signal to pass to the branch circuit, for example.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes at least one filter. The distribution junction may include one or more low pass filters, high pass filters, and/or band pass filters. The filter directs a given frequency from a branch circuit (e.g., when that frequency is not used by that branch circuit) and/or from a downstream circuit (e.g., when no downstream circuit utilizes that frequency). ) can play a role in minimizing (eg blocking). By minimizing (eg, blocking) such frequencies (eg, portions of the signal), the filter reduces noise in the network, for example, as the signal propagates through the network (eg, through a bus). can reduce

In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes frequency shift capability. For example, the control panel and distribution junction may frequency shift one or more of the time-varying signals to reduce interference as the signals travel through the network. A signal can be shifted into an area of spectrum that is available on a medium that is not being used (eg, coaxial cable). The distribution junction includes a passive or active target (e.g. component) that removes this frequency shift when passing a signal from the network bus to the branch circuit and inserts this frequency shift when passing the signal from the branch circuit to the network bus. can do. The control panel may include a G.hn head end (or other target (eg component)) that adds and removes frequency shifts to the time-varying signal as the time-varying signal is transmitted by and received by the control panel. can

In some embodiments, one or more antennas are coupled to the network. The antenna may be external and/or internal to an enclosure (eg, building). Distribution junctions can be passive or active. At least two of the antennas may be of the same type. At least two of the antennas may be of different types. An external antenna may be referred to herein as a "donor antenna". An external antenna may be a directional antenna (eg, a Yagi antenna). The antenna may be directly coupled to the control panel. The antenna may be indirectly coupled to the control panel. Indirect coupling of the antenna to the control panel may include coupling it through one or more distribution junctions. A signal from the antenna may travel some distance through the cable, resulting in, for example, a decrease in signal-to-noise ratio, for example, a decrease in signal strength compared to noise. A signal from the antenna may travel through one or more distribution junctions, resulting in, for example, a decrease in signal-to-noise ratio, eg, a decrease in signal strength compared to noise. The network may include preamplifiers and/or amplifiers (eg, to increase the signal-to-noise ratio, eg, to increase signal strength compared to noise). The amplifier and/or preamplifier may (i) be disposed adjacent to the antenna, (ii) be part of the antenna circuitry, (iii) be part of a controller (e.g., within a control panel), and (iv) ) is operably coupled to the controller, (v) is adjacent to the distribution junction, and/or (vi) can be operably coupled to the distribution junction. The antenna may be active. An antenna may include an amplifier and/or a preamplifier. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the antenna 273 is connected to the control panel 207 via the head 265a. However, an antenna may be communicatively coupled to a cable (eg, coaxial and/or trunk line 265a). The antenna may be connected to the trunk prior to any distribution junction (eg 290 ) and/or other target (eg a device such as 253 ). Without wishing to be bound by theory, the connection of the antenna to the trunk before any distribution junctions and/or devices can reduce signal loss (compared to noise). Amplifiers and/or preamplifiers may be included, for example, in the control panel of the floor controller. In some embodiments, the network bus has a head end. One or more devices (eg, antennas) may be coupled to the network bus. The antenna may be a high frequency antenna. The antenna may operate in a frequency range of about 700 MHz to about 2100 MHz. The antenna may be coupled closer to the head end than other devices (eg upstream thereof). As an example, the first device on the network bus (eg, the branch circuit closest to the head end) may be an antenna. The antenna may operate at at least about 3.56 GHz, the second device may be another antenna operating at at least about 700 MHz, and another (eg, downstream) device coupled to the network bus may operate at up to about 400 MHz. A signal at a frequency can be used. The highest frequency (eg 3.56 GHz) antenna may be connected to the network bus using a first distribution junction with a first low pass filter, eg disposed on a downstream circuit. The first low-pass filter may attenuate (eg, block) signals on downstream circuitry having a frequency exceeding the antenna's frequency (eg, about 3.20 GHz). A low frequency (eg 700 MHz) antenna can be connected to the network bus using a second distribution junction with a second low pass filter, eg on a downstream circuit. The second low-pass filter can attenuate (eg, block) signals on downstream circuitry having a frequency exceeding that of the antenna (eg, around 400 MHz). In such an arrangement, signals from both (eg 3.56 GHz and 700 MHz) antennas need not pass through more than a limited number (eg 1, 2, etc.) of distribution junctions. The number of distribution junctions through which the high frequency signal passes may be in the single order of magnitude (eg, up to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 distribution junctions). As a result, the antenna can receive higher signal strength (eg, higher signal-to-noise ratio). Additionally, high-frequency noise from downstream reflections and/or other sources may be reduced (eg, may be removed).

3 shows an example of a cabling network 300 . The cabling network includes a bus cable 350 connected to the controller 306. The controller may include a network (eg, including floor) controller. The controller may include a network controller. The controller may be a main controller. 3 shows an example of a plurality of distribution junctions 301 , 302 , 303 . The distribution junction 301 is connected to the antenna 321 via a branch cable 351. Antenna 321 may be the highest frequency antenna coupled to bus cable 350 (eg, 3.56 GHz). Distribution junction 302 is connected to antenna 322 via branch cable 352 . Antenna 322 may be a low frequency antenna (eg, 700 MHz). In the example shown in FIG. 3, antennas 321 and 322 are dome antennas. FIG. 3 shows a third distribution junction 303 connected via a branch cable 353 to a local (e.g., including window) controller 341, which in turn is connected to the IGU 342 and sensor 343. show an example The local controller may be a microprocessor.

3 shows a detailed electronic schematic diagram of distribution junction 301 as 310 . Detailed electronic schematic 310 includes a transformer that divides the power of a time-varying signal between an upstream circuit, a downstream circuit, and a branch circuit. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , distribution junction 310 includes a first inductor and a second inductor that couples electrical (eg, DC) power between the upstream circuit, the downstream circuit, and the branch circuit. The branch circuit of distribution junction 310 is coupled to the highest frequency antenna, and distribution junction 310 includes a low pass filter. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the low pass filter is formed from a capacitor and an inductor coupled to downstream circuitry. The low pass filter can attenuate (eg block) the signal used by the highest frequency (eg 3.56 GHz) antenna from downstream circuitry. Downstream devices (eg, 322, 342, and 343) may use lower frequencies than those attenuated by the low pass filter. The transformer in distribution junction 310 includes a first winding 361 , a second winding 362 , and a third winding 363 . Windings 361, 362 and 363 are wound around a common core. 3 shows an example of a distribution junction 380 connecting three coaxial cables.

In some embodiments, a cabling network includes a network bus (also referred to herein as a trunk line) and branch cables. Network buses and branch cables may distribute one or more time-varying signals and/or electrical (eg, DC) power within a network infrastructure. The network bus and branch cables may include one or more signal conductors and one or more ground conductors. A network bus may be formed of a number of circuits coupled together. A first circuit of the network bus may couple together a controller (eg, controller 306 of FIG. 3 ) and a distribution junction (eg, distribution junction 301 of FIG. 3 ). The second and subsequent circuits of the network bus may couple together each pair of distribution junctions (eg, the pair of distribution junctions 301 , 302 , 303 ). A branch cable (eg, branch cables 351, 352, 352) may couple the branch circuit to each distribution junction.

Network buses and branch cables may distribute (eg, simultaneously) multiple time-varying signals and/or electrical (eg, DC) power.

Network buses and branch cables can carry electrical (eg, DC) power at any desired nominal voltage. As an example, the network bus and branch cables may carry electrical (eg, DC) power at 12V, 23V, or 48 volts (V). The network bus and branch cables may conform to any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class, such as Class 0, I, II, or Ill. As an example, the network bus and branch cables may conform to IEC's Class II and, therefore, carry up to 100 VA or 100 Watts. The network bus and branch cables may have sufficient wire thickness (eg, 12, 14, 16 or 18 gauge) to carry the requested current. Network buses and branch cables may include shielding (eg, foil shielding, braided shielding, or quad shielding), for example, to reduce crosstalk and/or interference. Network bus and branch cables are LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG-174, RG-210, RG-213 , 8233, or 8267 coaxial cables, or other types of cables. The network bus and/or branch cables may distribute any desired number (eg, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more) of distinguishable sets of time-varying signal frequencies. A set of time-varying signal frequencies may be distributed over non-overlapping frequency windows. As an example, a network bus and/or branch cables may distribute a first set of time-varying signals over one or more first frequency windows and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies over one or more second frequency windows. The frequency windows (in both the first set and the second set) may be separated in the frequency domain (eg, there may be a guard band between the frequency windows). In some embodiments, some frequency windows (from the first set and/or the second set) are not separated by a guard band and/or partially overlap in the frequency domain (e.g., one frequency window ends at another). Contacts the frequency window start, e.g., 526 and 529 in FIG. 5). In general, frequency window-separating adjacent frequency windows into guard bands can reduce noise and/or interference, and also reduce the cost and complexity of network components (e.g., cables, filters, distribution junctions, etc.) .

The first set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include network data signals (eg control related signals). The first set of time-varying signals may be referred to as digital communication or digital data. The first set of time-varying signals may include (eg, only) signals configured to be transmitted by a communications technology that transmits digital information over electrical power lines used to convey electrical power. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals configured to be transmitted by hardware devices designed for communication and transmission of data over a building's electrical wiring (eg, Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi). The first set of time-varying signals is at least 1 megahertz (MHz), 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 50 MHz, 100 MHz, 500 MHz, 1 gigabit per second (Gbit/s), 2 Gbit/s, 3 Gbit/s, A signal configured to be transmitted by a data transfer protocol that facilitates data transfer rates of 4 Gbit/s, or 5 Gbit/s. The data transmission protocol may operate over telephone wires, coaxial cables, electrical power lines, and/or (eg, plastic) optical fibers. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using a chip (eg, including a semiconductor device). The first set of time-varying signals may include power line communication signals such as G.hn, homePlug®, or HD-PLC compatible signals. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals compatible with multimedia via the MoCA protocol. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals compatible with other protocols, including Ethernet protocols such as 802.3bw, 802.3bp, 802.3ch, and/or 802.3cq. The first frequency window may extend from approximately 2 megahertz (MHz) to approximately 200 MHz (eg, as used in the G.hn protocol). As an example, the first frequency window may extend from approximately 500 MHz to approximately 600 MHz. MHz, from about 875 MHz to about 1 GHz, or from about 1.15 to about 1.5 GHz.

The second set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include radio frequency signals. The second time-varying signal may include a signal received by or for transmission through an antenna. The second frequency window may extend from approximately 600 MHz to approximately 1 GHz, from approximately 1.4 GHz to approximately 6 GHz, and from approximately 1.7 GHz to approximately 6 GHz. The radio frequency signals may include cellular network signals, such as fourth generation (4G) and/or fifth generation (5G) cellular network signals. In some embodiments, 4G and 5G cellular network signals include signals below approximately 6 GHz. The ranges of the time-varying signals of the first set and the time-varying signals of the second set may overlap. The ranges of the first set of time-varying signals and the second set of time-varying signals may be distinct. The separation can be made by signal domains not occupied by either the first time-varying signal or the second time-varying signal.

4 shows a network cable 400 . The network bus(s) and branch cables within the cabling network disclosed herein may be formed from network cable 400. A network cable 400 includes an inner conductor 401, an insulator 402 (also referred to as a dielectric), an outer conductor 403, and an insulator 404 (also referred to as a jacket or shell). . The outer conductor 403 can serve as a ground path. The inner conductor 401 can deliver direct current (DC). The electromagnetic field carrying the signal is transmitted (eg, mainly or only) in the space between the inner conductor 401 and the outer conductor 403 . Coaxial cable can provide protection of signals from external electromagnetic interference (eg, can reduce external electromagnetic interference to signals transmitted on the coaxial cable). For example, the network cable 400 is LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG-174, RG-210 , RG-213, 8233, or 8267 coaxial cables, or other types of cables.

FIG. 5 shows various frequency ranges 500 , 510 , 520 of distinguishable signal range divisions along the frequency range that can be carried by network cable 400 . The frequency range 500 includes a DC signal 501, a first set of time-varying signal frequencies (eg, of control related communications) 502, and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies (eg, related to media (eg, cellular) communications). Includes two sets 504. The first and second time-varying signal frequency sets 502, 503 are separated by a frequency guard band 503 (eg, free of time-varying signals). The frequency range 510 includes a DC signal 511, a first time-varying signal frequency set 512 (e.g., of control related communications), and a second time-varying signal frequency set (e.g., related to media (e.g., cellular) communications) ( 514), a third time-varying signal frequency set 516 (eg, of control related communications), and a fourth time-varying signal frequency set 518 (eg, related to media (eg, cellular) communications). Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 separate respective pairs of time-varying signals. Guard bands 513, 515, and 517 may be free of time-varying signals. At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets may transmit the same type of signal (eg, signal frequency sets 512 and 516 may be reserved for transmission of control related communications). At least two of the time-varying signal frequency sets may transmit different types of signals (e.g., signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for transmission of control related communications, and frequency set 514 may be reserved for transmission of media related communications). may be reserved for transmission). As an example, the time-varying signal frequency set 512 may be reserved for data signals between about 2 and about 200 MHz (eg, it conforms to the G.hn protocol). As a further example, the time-varying signal frequency set 516 may be reserved for data signals between about 1.2 GHz and about 1.5 GHz that conform to the MoCA protocol. As another example, time-varying signal frequency sets 514 and 516 may be reserved for analog radio frequency signals, where signal frequency set 514 includes frequencies from about 0.6 to about 1.0 GHz, signal frequency set 518 may be reserved for signal frequencies from about 1.7 to about 6.0 GHz.

The signal frequency range 520 of distinguishable signal frequencies includes a DC signal 521, a first time-varying signal frequency set 522, a second time-varying signal frequency set 524, a third time-varying signal frequency set 526, and a second time-varying signal frequency set 526. 4 time-varying signal frequency sets 529. Guard band 523 represents a relatively wide spectrum guard band between signals 522 and 524 (eg, no signals). Guard band 525 represents a relatively narrow spectral guard band between signals 524 and 526 (eg, no signals). A sharp guard band 527 separates signal sets 526 and 529. The guard band 527 may have a width of a single frequency, less than 10 signal frequencies, or may have a zero frequency range (and thus, the signal sets 526 and 529 may touch each other). . The time-varying signal 529 may be separated from the time-varying signal frequency set 530 by a notch guard band 528 (eg, no signals). Signals within the signal frequency set may have the same amplitude throughout the signal frequency set (eg, 529). The signals within the set of signal frequencies may have various amplitudes (eg, including amplitude ramp up, amplitude plateau, and amplitude ramp down, as in 502). The ramp-up and ramp-down slopes may have the same absolute value. The slopes of ramp-up and ramp-down have different absolute values. A set of signal frequencies may be a frequency window within which the set of signal frequencies are allowed to be transmitted along a transmission line (eg, a coaxial cable). Frequencies for transmission (eg, of media-related communications) may conform to communication standards permitted by the jurisdiction. Maintaining and/or facilitating division into frequency domains (eg, frequency windows or signal frequency sets) may include utilization of one or more signal filters. For example, the facilitation of wide guard bands (e.g., 503) filtering sharp (e.g., 527 and 528) and/or short (e.g., 525) band gaps, or facilitating sharp frequency domain segmentation, may require less precise (eg, and cheaper) filters

In certain embodiments, the network infrastructure may include one or more network adapters. Network adapters may be configured to tap off electrical power and data (eg, G.hn and/or MoCA formatted data) at various locations on the horizontal data plane portion of the network. In some embodiments, network adapters are coupled to respective branch cables (also referred to as branch lines) and/or to a network bus (also referred to as a trunk line) in a cabling network. As referred to herein, a cabling network may include one or more network buses.

In some embodiments, network adapters are configured to provide signal and/or electrical power to downstream targets such as devices (eg, end nodes associated with each branch line). The signal may include digital data such as Ethernet data. In such an embodiment, the network adapters act as 100 megabit (Mbit) and/or 1000 Mbit Ethernet adapters. Network adapters may alternatively or additionally be configured to provide electrical power (eg, DC power) to downstream targets (eg, devices). The electrical power may be at a voltage of at least about 24 Volts (V), 48 V, or 96 V. The electrical power may be at a voltage of up to about 24 V, 48 V, or 96 V. An end node coupled to a network adapter may receive electrical power from the coupled network adapter and/or receive and transmit data therethrough. For example, a digital architectural element (eg, including a tintable window) can be (i) coupled to a network adapter and (ii) configured to receive data and electrical power from the coupled network adapter. A digital architectural element may include one or more sensors. The sensor(s) may be coupled to the network infrastructure, such as via a connected network adapter. Nodes capable of using electrical power and/or data network communications (including high data rate communications) may be coupled to a network infrastructure, such as through network adapters. The cabling system and at least some of its components may support electrical power of at least about 50 Watts (W), 100 W, 200 W, 400 W, 600 W, 1000 W, or 5000 W.

In some embodiments, a cabling network may include or be operatively coupled to a network adapter. A network adapter may include one or more network components for internally and/or externally distributing electrical power. As an example, a network adapter may include one or more network components for handling (eg, DC) electrical power. Electrical power may be AC or DC power. A power processing network component may include one or more (eg, DC-DC) converters. The network includes DC-AC, AC-DC, AC-AC, or DC-DC converters. The converter may be operatively coupled to, or part of, a network adapter. A DC-DC converter may be configured to convert a DC voltage received from the network bus to a different voltage (eg, a higher voltage and/or a lower voltage). DC-DC converters may include one or more electronic converters, such as step-down (eg buck) converters and/or step-up (eg boost) converters. The output of the DC-DC converters in the network adapter is internally by the network adapter (e.g. to power internal network components such as processors, interfaces and controllers) and/or (e.g. to power end nodes). to provide) can be used externally. A network adapter may provide electrical power to one or more end nodes, such as through an adapter or connector. As examples, a network adapter may provide DC power to a PoE switch, coupler, and/or injector. A PoE switch, coupler, and/or injector may provide DC power to end nodes, such as over twisted-pair Ethernet cabling. DC processing network components may include one or more filters and/or power conditioning devices. As an example, DC processing network components may include one or more inductors configured to block time-varying signals between end nodes, network bus, and/or DC-DC converters.

A network adapter may include network components for handling data communication. As examples, a network adapter may include a processor, an interface for coupling to a network bus, and/or one or more interfaces for coupling to end nodes. These network components may receive (eg, and be powered by) one or more (eg, DC) signals received from a network bus and/or generated internally by one or more (eg, DC-DC) converters. can be supplied). An interface for coupling to a network bus may encode and decode data transferred over the network bus. When the network bus utilizes a data protocol (eg G.hn protocol or MoCA protocol), the interface to couple to the network bus may be a data interface (also referred to as a data controller). For example, when a network bus utilizes the G.hn protocol (as an example), the interface to couple to the network bus may be a G.hn interface (also referred to as a G.hn controller). Interfaces for coupling to one or more end nodes may include, by way of example, (i) a data and/or electrical power interface and (ii) an architectural element interface. The universal data and/or electrical power interface can be, for example, an Ethernet interface or a PoE interface. Ethernet interfaces and PoE interfaces may be referred to as Ethernet controllers and PoE controllers, respectively. An architectural element interface may include, as an example, a window controller (which is a type of local controller). The window controller may provide one or more signals for the tintable window effect to adjust the tint of the tintable window, such as in response to tint commands. Tint commands may be generated internally by the window controller (eg, in response to logic programmed into the window controller), or may be received over a network bus from a higher-level window controller in the hierarchy of controllers. The window controller may receive signals, for example, from the tintable window and/or from any connected sensors. The connected sensors can be associated with the sensed environmental conditions (eg, weather conditions such as sunlight and/or overcast) and/or the tint state of the tintable window. The window controller may use such signals internally (eg, to generate tint commands), or may forward such signals to other network components, eg, over a network bus.

A network adapter may have a relatively small chassis or footprint. The basic length scale may be width, length, height, diameter of a circle, or diameter of a bounding circle, and may be abbreviated herein as "FLS". The basic length scale of a network adapter is up to about 1 cm, 2 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, or 50 cm. The FLS of the network adapter may have any value in between the above values (eg, between about 1 cm and about 50 cm, between about 1 cm and about 10 cm, or between about 10 cm and about 50 cm). In some embodiments, no dimension exceeds about 12 inches or about 10 inches. As an example, a network adapter may have dimensions of about 1.5 inches by about 0.75 inches by about 6 inches. In certain embodiments, the network adapter fits into at least a portion of window framing (eg, mullions and/or transoms), walls, floors, and/or other building structures. It may be directly connected to one or more cables (eg, wires) providing electrical power and data and/or cellular communications, such as from a headend or control panel. It can be linked to windows or any other target. Targets may include Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as digital architectural elements. A control panel may include circuitry disposed on one or more electronic boards. The control panel may include connections to electrical and/or optical wiring. The control panel, device ensemble, edge distribution frame, and/or switch may each be housed within the housing. The housing may include transparent or opaque portions. The housing may include a hardened material (eg, elemental mental, metal alloy, polymer, resin, glass, or allotrope of elemental carbon). The housing may include a composite material. The housing may have one or more perforations. The housing may have windows and/or doors. The housing may have a cover. The cover may snap (eg, reversibly) to the body of the housing.

In some embodiments, the network adapter includes frequency shift capabilities. As an example, a network adapter may transmit and/or receive signals over a (eg, coaxial) cable, such signals being frequency shifted. An interface, controller, or other element may (i) shift signals transmitted from the network adapter and/or (ii) reverse shifts for signals entering the network adapter through a network bus (eg, branch circuit). can make it With arrangements of this type (eg, using a frequency shift component), signaling protocols with overlapping frequency windows can be used without interference. As an example, control-related signals and/or media-related signals may overlap when not shifted (e.g., under the MoCA protocol and 4G and/or 5G signals), and a network adapter with frequency shift capability, a distribution junction and/or or may not overlap when shifted by network components such as a control panel (eg headend).

6 shows an example of a network adapter 600 . On the upstream side of network adapter 600 (eg, the side facing the control panel), a connector (not shown) connects to a (eg, coaxial) cable 605 (eg, a network bus) having a grounded sheath and inner conductor. Tap. Electrical power and data may be carried by (eg, coaxial) cables. An example of a connector to a (eg, coaxial) cable is described herein (eg, see discussion of distribution splice 310 in FIG. 3 ).

On the downstream side of the network adapter (eg, the side facing away from the control panel), connectors for passing electrical power and data (i) to connector 619 and (ii) to local controller 621 (or other interfaces) are provided. Connector 619 provides power and data transmission capabilities. Connector 619 may be an Ethernet connector with PoE capabilities. Connector 619 may provide a 100Base Ethernet and/or 1000Base Ethernet connection. Connector 619 may be an RJ45 connector. Connector 621 may be configured to couple to a target, such as an optically switchable window (eg, an IGU having one or more electrochromic devices disposed on one or more of the lights of the IGU). Connector 619 may be a (eg, coaxial) cable connector (eg, RG-designated connection or BNC-designated connector).

Electrical (eg DC) power from the (eg coaxial) cable is split at point 629 . Electrical power then passes through the inductor choke 607 and is delivered to the line (eg, cable(s)) 609 . The inductor choke 607 allows DC current to pass while attenuating (eg, blocking) time-varying communication signal components (eg, control related data, media related data, and/or antenna signals). A portion of the DC current on line 609 is provided to a DC/DC converter 611 (also referred to as a DC-DC converter). DC/DC converter 611 is configured to provide DC power at a configured voltage for internal operation of the network adapter. DC power is either in or within a network adapter, including PoE power injection circuitry 617, local (e.g. window) controller 621, interface 623, (e.g. Ethernet) controller 625, and processor 627. It may be used by one or more processors and other targets (eg elements) coupled thereto.

A portion of the DC current on line 609 is provided to DC/DC converter 613. The DC/DC converter 613 may be a (eg, 48 V) recovery circuit. DC/DC converter 613 is configured to change (eg, boost or reduce (as appropriate)) the DC voltage received from line (eg, cable) 605 to a specified voltage (eg, 48 volts). An inductor 615 is coupled between the DC/DC converter 613 and the PoE circuit. Inductor 615 smoothes the DC voltages provided by DC/DC converter 613 and attenuates (eg, blocks) time-varying signals from flowing toward DC/DC converter 613 . Network adapter 600 transmits electrical power to physical lines (e.g., it is an Ethernet capable of carrying formatted data) to PoE circuitry 617 configured to be available for transmission on the PoE circuit 617 is electrically connected to connector 619 in a manner that allows current at a designated voltage (eg, 48 volts) to pass to one or more termination devices connected to connector 619 .

Downstream from point 629 is interface 623 bidirectionally coupled to line (eg coaxial cable) 605 . Interface 623 is configured to encode and decode data according to a communication (eg g.hn or MoCA) protocol. Interface 623 is used to (i) decode or otherwise interpret communication (eg, G.hn) data received from line (eg, coaxial cable) 605 and (ii) encode or otherwise interpret data. configured to format. Data is provided via (A) controllers 625 and/or 621 and/or (B) communication protocol signals (eg G.hn) for upstream transmission over line (eg coaxial cable) 605 is created internally (e.g., by processor 627 and/or by local (e.g., window) controller 621).

A (eg Ethernet) controller 625 is bidirectionally coupled to a communication (eg G.hn) interface 623 . A (eg Ethernet) controller 625 is bidirectionally coupled to connector 619 . The (eg, Ethernet) controller 625 is configured to provide data in an appropriate physical layer format for subsequent transmission, such as an Ethernet transmission. For example, (eg, Ethernet) controller 625 may decode Ethernet data from connector 619 (eg, from end nodes) and/or communicate unencoded data for subsequent upstream transmission (eg, G.hn) interface 623. (e.g., Ethernet) controller 625 (i) to receive data from interface 623, (ii) to encode the data in an Ethernet physical layer format, and (iii) to provide the encoded data to connector 619. can be configured to Ethernet controller 625 may provide data in a physical layer format suitable for transmission to end nodes (eg, Ethernet nodes).

A processor 627 (eg, including a microprocessor) is coupled bidirectionally to a communication (eg, G.hn) interface 623 and to a PoE circuit 617 . Processor 627 may be configured to provide any one or more of a variety of functions to nodes connected to connector 619 and/or local (eg, window) controller 621 . Examples of such functions include interpreting sensor data, tint commands for electrochromic windows, negotiating power delivery (eg, via connector 619 ), and any combination thereof. In some implementations, microprocessor 627 provides computing capabilities for a device such as a sensor, emitter, or any other device disclosed herein (eg, Internet of Things (IoT) functionality, such as that of a digital architectural element). is configured to provide Examples of architectural elements, their computing capabilities, usage as part of a (eg control) network as well as a (eg control) network are given in a patent filed on June 20, 2019 entitled "SENSING AND COMMUNICATIONS UNIT FOR OPTICALLY" SWITCHABLE WINDOW SYSTEMS," US patent application Ser. No. 16/447,169, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As one example, processor 627 (or any other element within network adapter 600) may be configured to limit electrical power consumption by termination devices through connector 619, eg, to a predetermined electrical power limit ( The power cap can be up to about 1 Watt, 5 Watts, or 10 Watts). Restriction to the predetermined power limit may be at least until a higher level of power consumption is negotiated with (eg, and approved by) the processor 627 and/or negotiated by the control panel. After negotiation of power consumption, the processor 627 may allow the end device to exceed a predetermined limit and/or to consume the negotiated amount of power.

As shown herein, PoE circuit 617 is bi-directionally coupled to connector 619 to transmit and/or receive data. PoE circuitry 617 is coupled to processor 627 to thereby allow direct and/or indirect two-way communication between end nodes (eg, targets) coupled to 619 and processor 627 . Network adapter 600 is configured to make processing resources (of processor 627) available to downstream nodes.

An optional local (eg window) controller 621 is coupled bi-directionally to microprocessor 627 and cable 622 (eg window cable). In some implementations, local (eg, window) controller 621 is configured to perform some or all functions of a window controller (also referred to herein as a local controller). As examples, local controller 621 may be configured to receive tint transition commands from a control panel, (i) to generate tint transition voltage and/or current profiles and provide them to electrochromic devices, (ii) to receive sensor readings. and/or process; and/or (iii) a window controller configured to receive current and/or voltage readings from the electrochromic devices. Examples of functions of a local (e.g., window) controller are (1) US patent application Ser. No. 13/449,248, filed Apr. 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS"; (2) 2012 US Patent Application Publication No. 13/449,251, filed on April 17, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS"; (3) filed on October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR US Patent Application Publication No. 15/334,835, "OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES;" and (4) US Patent Application Publication No. 15/334,832, filed on October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. included

In at least some embodiments, one or more control panels serving as distribution hubs are provided. A control panel may provide one or more links to other control panel(s) within the (eg, vertical and/or horizontal) data plane of the building. The control panel may include a network switch, such as an Ethernet switch, configured to communicate between the control panels. The control panels can be placed on the same floor or on different floors. For example, a network switch can be configured to communicate between control panels on different floors of a building. As an example, control panels may transmit at least about 100 megabit/s (Mbit/s), 500 Mbit/s, 1 gigabit/s (Gbit/s) between control panels (eg, disposed within a floor and/or between floors). s), or network switches configured to provide network communications (eg, Ethernet communications) at data rates of 10 Gbit/s. The control panels, when installed, may be connected to fiber optic(s) for inter-floor and/or intra-floor communication.

In some implementations, there is at least one control panel on each of at least two different floors of the building. In some cases, there is at least one control panel for every floor of the building. In some cases, there are at least two control panels on at least one floor of the building. In certain embodiments, there is less than one control panel per floor of a building (eg, no control panel on at least one floor of a building). In certain embodiments, the control panel is located in an elevator pier area or other area (eg pier) with dedicated mechanical and/or electrical controls and/or other infrastructure (eg a switchboard with circuit breakers). . In certain embodiments, the control panel(s) on the floor(s) are connected to the main controller. The main controller can be placed in a building. For example, the main controller may be placed in the basement of a building, or in some dedicated area of a building (eg, a basement or top floor). The primary controller may be a primary control panel. A primary control panel may have more computing resources (eg, processing power and memory and storage capabilities) than other control panels in the control system (eg, than any other control panel in the control system). In some embodiments, the primary control panel is networked with the rest of the control panels in a redundant manner (eg, with two or more optical fibers) such that failure of a single link does not result in disconnection of any control panels from the network. In some embodiments, the primary control panel has a wired and/or wireless connection to a cellular network, a backhaul network, the Internet, an extranet, and/or a network in communication with the Internet. In some embodiments, the main controller is located outside of a building. In some embodiments, the main controller is located in the cloud.

The control panel may include a gateway to the horizontal data plane. In certain embodiments, the control panel is configured to communicate with nodes on a horizontal data plane via (eg, coaxial) cables. In certain embodiments, the control panel is configured to communicate with nodes on a horizontal data plane via (eg, twisted-pair copper) cables. The control panel may be configured to implement a linear, star, or circular network topology. The control panel may be configured to implement point-to-multipoint communication. The control panel may be configured to communicate with one or more targets (eg nodes) on the horizontal and/or vertical data plane using specific physical and/or link layer protocols (eg G.hn protocol and/or MoCA). have. The G.hn protocol may allow transmission of data over any wire medium. Data rates within the G.hn protocol may range from about 100 Mbits/sec up to about 1.7 Gb/sec. The G.hn protocol may use signals from about 2 MHz to about 200 MHz. The G.hn protocol as implemented herein can tolerate cables with defects (eg, such as those created by tapping bus lines to branch lines, eg, via a distribution junction).

In some embodiments, the control panel includes at least one communication headend. For example, the control panel may include MoCA and/or G.hn headends. The headend may be configured to determine the physical topology of the horizontal and/or vertical data plane based at least in part on a profile of the (eg, electrical) power spectrum provided to the headend. Notches in the power spectrum may be created by nodes on the network. The size and location of the notches on the power spectrum may correspond to the physical topology of the network served by the headend. A communications (eg, G.hn) headend may be configured to identify a portion of its allocated frequency spectrum to use for communications, eg, to avoid inadvertently using lower power portions of the spectrum. In certain embodiments, communication (eg, G.hn) data is transmitted in a point-to-multipoint manner on horizontal and/or vertical data planes. In some embodiments, a master (G.hn headend) transmits data to multiple slave nodes (end nodes on horizontal and/or vertical data planes). In certain embodiments, slave nodes do not communicate directly with each other. In certain embodiments, slave nodes communicate directly with each other.

In certain embodiments, data plane infrastructure (eg, horizontal) including, for example, a control panel, cabling such as coaxial cables, and network adapters is used to provide electrical power to nodes on the network. In certain embodiments, electrical power (eg, provided at about 48 volts DC) is injected into a cable (eg, coaxial cable) used in the (eg, horizontal) data plane. In certain embodiments, the control panel includes a power manager. A power manager may be configured to control distribution of power to individual network adapters and/or end nodes on the network. Individual network adapters or other nodes may be powered according to a protocol implemented in the power manager. In some protocols, end nodes will not be allowed to draw power whenever they want. Various criteria may be employed to determine when and/or how much electrical power to deliver to individual nodes or network adapters on a network. Such criteria include, for example, ensuring that the total delivered power on a system does not exceed a certain threshold, such as a threshold set for a particular electrical standard in a jurisdiction (e.g., 100 W for Class 2 networks in the United States). can include In some embodiments, one or more end nodes connected to the network are not allowed to draw power (or only allowed to draw a limited amount of power) until they negotiate with the power manager for power. A power manager or other network component may form a virtual network with end nodes for purposes of power negotiation and/or network authentication.

In certain embodiments, the power management protocol employs a defined set of communications between a power manager and one or more network adapters or nodes. For example, requests for power may be issued by network adapters, and requests for information may be issued by a power manager. Data including timing and/or conditions of power delivery may be issued from the power manager before power is actually delivered. In certain embodiments, such communication is provided using a (eg, G.hn) communication protocol. PoE can be implemented with its own protocol. In certain embodiments, a link layer discovery protocol (LLDP) is employed to provide relevant communications for power management, whether or not using a PoE protocol.

7 shows an example of a control panel 700 . The control panel 700 includes a pair of switches 701 and 702. Switches 701 and 702 are coupled to optical fibers 710 . The optical fibers 710 may be connected to other control panels in the network, either on the same or different floors of the building. Optical fibers 710 may include fibers such as 204, 213, 215, and 217 of FIG. 2, as examples. Switches 701 and 702 are also coupled to Ethernet cables 712 . Ethernet cables 712 couple to devices (eg, disposed on the floor of control panel 700 ) and control components within control panel 700 . The control panel 700 further includes a floor controller 703. Floor controller 703 may control a plurality of local (eg, window and/or sensor) controllers (eg, see discussion of network controllers 106 in FIG. 1 ). The control panel 700 further includes first and second communication (in FIG. 7 abbreviated as “comm.”, eg G.hn) headends 704 and 705 . Communications headends 704, 705 are coupled to a plurality of network bus cables 714, which may be coaxial cables. Communications headends 704 and 705 may provide electrical (eg, DC) power and multiple distinguishable time-varying signals (eg, simultaneously) over network bus cables 714 . Network bus cables include, by way of example, power and/or communication cables 259, 261, 263 of FIG. 2 (eg, coaxial). The communication headends 704 and 705 may include, for example, a preamplifier and/or amplifier. The control panel 700 further includes an electrical power distribution unit (PDU) 706 . PDU 706 can serve as a networked power strip. Control components within control panel 700 including switches 701 and 702, floor controller 703 and/or communication headends 704 and 705 may receive power via PDU 706. PDU 706 may provide remote network-based monitoring of power usage by connected targets (eg, devices). The PDU 706 may provide remote network-based control of (eg, electrical) power distribution to individual powered targets (eg, components). Accordingly, PDU 706 may be used to remotely turn on or off various targets (eg, components) that receive power through 706, individually or in any combination.

In certain embodiments, an enclosure (eg, building) may include edge distribution frames diffused through the enclosure. An edge distributed frame may include one or more antennas, modems, and/or one or more radios configured to provide a wireless communication connection to at least a portion of the enclosure. An edge distribution frame (abbreviated herein as “EDF”) may be coupled to a control panel (eg, a control panel on each floor). The edge distribution frame may be in electrical and/or data communication with the control panel. As an example, one or more (eg, combined) cables may be provided that include current conductor(s) communication cable(s) and/or one or more optical fibers. Current conductors can transfer electrical power (eg, from the control panel to the edge distribution frames). Current conductor communication cable(s) and/or fiber optic(s) may carry analog signals and/or digital data between the control panels and the edge distribution frame(s). Edge distributed frame(s) may provide wireless communication capabilities (eg, including cellular communication and/or Wi-Fi®) to their immediate proximity. Edge distribution frames form a network (e.g., on some or all of the floors of a building) that can overlap with other cabling networks (e.g., coaxial cable including wire networks providing wired and/or wireless connectivity) can do.

8 shows an example of an enclosure 800 (eg, a floor of a building) that includes a network of edge distribution frames (EDFs). As shown in the example of FIG. 8 , the network of EDFs 802a - 802e may be distributed across an enclosure (eg, a floor of a building). EDFs 802a-802e may include antennas, modems, and/or radios, and may include wireless connections (eg, cellular and/or wireless communication devices) to detect signals from most (eg, all) of the floors of a building. or a Wi-Fi® connection). EDFs 802a - 802e may be in electrical and/or data communication with control panel 800 . EDFs 802a to 802e are coupled to the control panel 850 via respective cables 802a to 802e. Links (eg, cables) 804a to 804e may be combination cables (eg, coaxial cable or a combination of cables with one or more optical fibers) that include current carrying conductors and data communication, such that: It may provide electrical power and data connections to EDFs 802a-802e. As shown in Figure 8, the enclosure contains other cabling networks which may include coaxial cable based networks. In particular, the enclosure includes (eg, coaxial) cables 806a - 806c that provide connection to end targets (eg, devices 808). The (eg, coaxial) cables 806a to 806c are distributed throughout at least a portion (eg, all) of the enclosure, and their receiving area spatially overlaps a portion of the service areas of the EDFs 802a to 802e. . 8 shows a remote radio head (RRH) 810 . The remote radio head may be, for example, a cellular antenna or radio mounted outside the enclosure. The remote radio head may thereby provide connectivity to networks outside the enclosure. RRH 810 may be connected to control panel 850 via ID 812 and link (eg, cable) 814. . Link (eg, cable) 814 can be a combination cable that includes current carrying conductors, and/or cables for transmitting communications, such as coaxial cables or optical fibers. ID 812 may include radios, amplifiers, preamps, switches, and/or other network devices that support RRH 810.

A communication network for a building may include vertically oriented network portions (eg, vertical data planes) connecting network components on multiple floors. As an example, network components can include control panels disposed on separate floors, and a vertical data plane can connect the control panels together with redundancy.

An example of a vertically oriented network 900 with redundancy is shown in FIG. 9 . In the example of FIG. 9 , control panels 901a to 901d are each located on different floors of a building, and these control panels are redundantly interconnected. In particular, the control panel 901a is connected to the control panels 901b and 901d, the control panel 901b is connected to the control panels 901a and 901c, and the control panel 901c is connected to the control panels 901d, 901b), and the control panel 901d is connected to the control panels 901a and 901c. Some or all of the connections between the control panels are themselves redundant (eg, formed from a pair of optical fibers (or other cabling medium)). Network 900 also includes a cellular modem 902 that connects the network to an external cellular network. Network 900 includes redundant connections to infrastructure 904 (eg, another network, whether internal or external to the enclosure in which network 900 is deployed).

In some embodiments, a network may have multiple control panels on multiple building floors. Thus, a single floor may have horizontal data planes (eg, networks of coaxial bus lines and edge data frames) served by two or more control panels. An example of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 10 . As shown in Figure 10, the first floor of the building includes control panels 1001a, 1001b coupled together with a pair of lines (eg, optical fibers) to provide redundancy. The second floor of the building includes control panels 1001c and 1001d, the third floor of the building includes control panels 1001e and 1001f, and the fourth floor of the building includes control panels 1001g and 1001h. includes Control panels 1001a - 1001h are coupled to infrastructure 1004 (eg, another network, whether internal or external to the enclosure in which network 1000 is deployed). In FIG. 10 , a first set of control panels (eg, including control panels 1001a, 1001c, 1001e, 1001g) form a first vertically oriented network with redundant connections (as shown). A second set of control panels (eg, including control panels 1001b, 1001d, 1001f, 1001h) form a second vertically oriented network with redundant connections (as shown). One advantage of having vertical joints arranged in the manner of FIG. 10 is that the joints of the two sets of control panels can run at separate risers in the building.

A further arrangement of the building network infrastructure is shown in the examples of FIGS. 11A , 11B and 11C . 11A shows an example in which control panels 1101a to 1101d are connected together using redundant loops. In particular, there are two vertical links between control panels on adjacent floors, as well as two vertical links between control panels on the top and bottom floors. Additionally, control panel 1101a is redundantly connected to infrastructure 1104 (eg, other networks, whether internal or external to the enclosure in which network 900 is deployed). The first floor of the building contains the control panel 1101a, the second floor of the building contains the control panel 1101b, the third floor of the building contains the control panel 1101c, and the fourth floor of the building contains the control panel 1101c. includes a control panel 1101d. 11B shows an example where each floor of the building contains two control panels, and there are two redundant loops in the vertical data plane. In particular, control panels 1102a to 1102d are connected together in a first redundant loop, while control panels 1102e to 1102h are connected together in a second redundant loop. The first floor of the building includes control panels 1102a and 1102e, the second floor of the building includes control panels 1102b and 1102f, the third floor of the building includes control panels 1102c and 1102g, , the fourth floor of the building includes control panels 1102d and 1102h. The control panels 1102a - 1102d are redundantly connected to the infrastructure 1104 . Control panels 1102e to 1102h are redundantly connected to infrastructure 1104 . The control panels 1102e to 1102h are redundantly connected to the control panels 1102a to 1102d. 11C shows an example where each floor of the building includes two control panels, there is one redundant loop in the vertical data lane, and some (eg, all) of the floors of the building have redundant loops. In particular, the control panels 1103a to 1103d are connected together in redundant loops within the vertical data plane. Additionally, control panel pairs 1103a and 1103e, 1103b and 1103f, 1103c and 1103g, and 1103d and 1103h are connected together in respective redundant loops within the horizontal data plane. The first floor of the building includes control panels 1103a and 1103e, the second floor of the building includes control panels 1103b and 1103f, the third floor of the building includes control panels 1103c and 1103g, , the fourth floor of the building includes control panels 1103d and 1103h. control panel 1102a is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103e and infrastructure 1104; The control panel 1103b is redundantly connected to both the control panel 1103f and the infrastructure 1104; control panel 1103c is redundantly connected to both control panel 1103g and infrastructure 1104; The control panel 1103d is redundantly connected to both the control panel 1103h and the infrastructure 1104. In various embodiments, the network infrastructure supports a control system for one or more windows, such as electrochromic (eg, tintable) windows. A control system may include one or more controllers operably coupled (eg, directly or indirectly) to one or more windows. Although the disclosed embodiments describe an electrochromic window (also referred to herein as an “optically switchable window,” “tintable window,” or “smart window”), the concepts disclosed herein do not devices, or other types of switchable optical devices including suspended particle devices. For example, a liquid crystal device and/or a suspended particle device may be implemented instead of or in addition to an electrochromic device.

In some embodiments, a tintable window exhibits a (eg, controllable and/or reversible) change in at least one optical property of the window, eg, when a stimulus is applied. Stimulation may include optical, electrical, and/or magnetic stimulation. For example, the stimulus may include an applied voltage. One or more tintable windows may be used to control lighting and/or glare conditions, for example, by modulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through it. One or more tintable windows may be used to control the temperature within a building, for example by modulating the transmission of solar energy propagating through it. Control of solar energy can control the heat load imposed on the interior of a facility (eg, building). Control can be manual and/or automatic. Controls may be used to maintain one or more requested (eg, environmental) conditions, such as occupant comfort. Control may include reducing energy consumption of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and/or lighting systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by separate systems. At least two of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning may be induced by a single system (abbreviated herein as “HVAC”). In some cases, tintable windows may be responsive to one or more environmental sensors and/or user control. The tintable window may include an electrochromic window (eg, may be an electrochromic window). The windows may be positioned ranging from the inside to the outside of a structure (eg, a facility such as a building). However, it need not be. A tintable window can be a liquid crystal device, a suspended particle device, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device (eg, a microshutter), or any technology now known or hereafter developed that is configured to control light transmission through the window. You can use it to work. A window with a MEMS device for tinting is described in US patent application Ser. No. 14/443,353, filed on May 15, 2015 and entitled "MULTl-PANE WINDOWS INCLUDING ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES AND ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS DEVICES", the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some cases, one or more tintable windows may be located on the interior of a building, for example between a conference room and a hallway. In some cases, one or more tintable windows may be used in place of, for example, manual or non-tinting windows in cars, trains, aircraft and other vehicles.

In some embodiments, the tintable window includes an electrochromic device (referred to herein as an “EC device” (abbreviated herein as ECD), or “EC”). The EC device may include at least one coating comprising at least one layer. At least one layer may include an electrochromic material. In some embodiments, the electrochromic material exhibits a change from one optical state to another when a potential is applied across the EC device, for example. The transition of an electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be, for example, reversible, semi-reversible, or irreversible ion insertion and charge-balancing into the electrochromic material (eg, by intercalation). can be caused by a corresponding injection of electrons. For example, the transition of an electrochromic layer from one optical state to another may be caused by, for example, reversible ion insertion into the electrochromic material (eg, by intercalation) and corresponding charge-balancing electrons. Can be caused by injection. Reversible can be for the expected lifetime of the ECD. Semi-reversible refers to a measurable (eg, noticeable) degradation in the reversibility of the tint of a window over one or more tinting cycles. In some cases, the fraction of the ions responsible for the optical transition is irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material (e.g., and thus, the induced (altered) tint state of the window returns to its original tinted state. not reversible). In various EC devices, at least some (eg, all) of the irreversibly bound ions may be used to compensate for “blind charges” in the material (eg, ECD).

In some embodiments, suitable ions include cations. Cations may include lithium ions (Li+) and/or hydrogen ions (H+) (ie, protons). In some embodiments, other ions may be suitable. Intercalation of cations may be present in the (eg metal) oxide. Changes in the intercalation state of ions (eg, cations) into the oxide can lead to visible changes in the tint (eg, color) of the oxide. For example, oxides can transition from a colorless state to a colored state. For example, intercalation of lithium ions into tungsten oxide (WO _3-y (0 < y ≤ ~0.3)) can cause the tungsten oxide to change from a transparent state to a colored (eg, blue) state. An EC device coating as described herein is placed within the visible portion of the tintable window such that tinting of the EC device coating can be used to control the optical state of the tintable window.

An example of an electrochromic device fabricated without depositing a separate ionic conductor material can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/462,725, filed May 2, 2012 and entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES"; which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the EC device coating may include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers can be used to improve certain optical properties, provide moisture resistance, and/or provide scratch resistance. These and/or other passive layers may serve to hermetically seal the EC stack (eg, 1220). Various layers, including transparent conductive layers, may be treated with antireflective and/or protective layers (eg, oxide and/or nitride layers).

In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to cycle reversibly (eg, substantially) between a transparent state and a tinted state. Reversibility may be within the expected lifetime of the ECD. The expected lifespan may be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The expected lifespan may be any value between the foregoing values (eg, from about 5 years to about 100 years, from about 5 years to about 50 years, or from about 50 years to about 100 years). A potential can be applied to the electrochromic stack such that when the window is in a first tinted state (e.g., transparent), available ions in the stack that can cause the electrochromic material to be in a tinted state are primarily present at the opposite electrode. can do. When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions can be transported across the ion conducting layer into the electrochromic material, causing the material to enter a second tinted state (eg, tinted state).

It should be understood that references to the transition between a clear state and a tinted state are not limiting and suggest only one example of an electrochromic transition that may be realized. Unless otherwise specified herein, whenever reference is made to a transition between a transparent state and a tinted state, the corresponding device or process includes other optical state transitions such as non-reflective to reflective, and/or transparent to opaque. In some embodiments, the terms “transparent” and “bleached” refer to an optically neutral state, eg, an untinted, transparent and/or translucent state. In some embodiments, the "color" or "tint" of the electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or range of wavelengths. Selection of appropriate electrochromic material and counter electrode material can control the associated optical transition (eg, from tinted to untinted state).

In certain embodiments, at least some (eg, all) of the materials making up the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (eg, solid state), or both inorganic and solid. Since various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when tinted building windows are exposed to heat and UV light, inorganic materials offer the advantage of reliable electrochromic stacks that can function for a long time. . In some embodiments, materials in the solid state may provide the advantage of minimal contamination and minimal leakage problems, as materials in the liquid state sometimes do. One or more of the layers in the stack may contain some amount (eg measurable) of organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (eg, one or more of the layers) may contain little or no measurable organic matter. The ECD or any portion thereof (eg, one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids, which may be present in minor amounts. A small amount may be an amount of up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of ECD. The solid state material may be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes employing a liquid component, such as certain processes employing sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and/or chemical vapor deposition.

In some embodiments, the IGU includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, an IGU may include two panes of glass. At least one substrate of the IGU may include an electrochromic device disposed thereon. One or more windows of the IGU may have a separator disposed therebetween. The IGU may be of a hermetically sealed construction, eg may have an interior area isolated from the surrounding environment. A “window assembly” may include an IGU. A “window assembly” may include a (eg, stand-alone) laminate. A “window assembly” may include one or more electrical leads for connecting IGUs and/or laminates, for example. Electrical leads can operably couple (eg connect) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, switch, etc., and can include a frame supporting the IGU or laminate. A window assembly may include a window controller, and/or a component of a window controller (eg, a dock).

In some embodiments, the first window, the second window and/or the IGU are rectangular solids. In some implementations, other (eg, geometric) shapes are possible. The shape of the first window, the second window and/or the IGU may include circular, oval, triangular, curved, convex and/or concave shapes. The first window, the second window and/or the IGU may include a certain curvature. The first window, the second window and/or the IGU may have no curvature. The first window, the second window and/or the IGU may include one or more straight edge portions. The default length scale of the window may be at least 1 foot (ft), 2 ft, 3 ft, 5 ft, 10 ft, 20 ft, 30 ft, 40 ft, 50 ft, 60 ft, 80 ft, or 100 ft. The FLS of a window can have any value in between the aforementioned values (eg, between about 1 ft and about 100 ft, between about 1 ft and about 60 ft, or between about 50 ft and about 100 ft). The basic length scale (abbreviated herein as "FLS") may include the length, width or diameter of the bounding circle. For example, the length "L" of the first window and/or the second window may be in the range of at least about 20 inches (in.) and up to about 10 feet (ft.). For example, the width “W” of the first window and/or second window is about 20 in. to about 10 ft. The window may have a thickness of at least about 0.1 millimeter (mm), 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, or 50 mm. The thickness of the window can have any value between the foregoing values (e.g., from about 0.1 mm to about 50 mm, from about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, from about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 50 mm). have. For example, the thickness "T" of the first window and/or the second window may be in the range of about 0.3 millimeters (mm) to about 10 mm. Other smaller or larger FLSs (e.g., length or width) or thickness may be possible, based at least in part on the needs of particular users, managers, administrators, builders, architects, and/or owners ( eg may be requested). In instances where the thickness T of the substrate is less than about 3 mm (eg, it is a thin substrate), the substrate may be laminated to, for example, an additional substrate. Additional substrates may be thicker. The additional substrate may protect the thin substrate. Additionally, an IGU may include two windows, but in some other implementations, an IGU may include three or more windows. In some implementations, one or more of the windows may be a laminate structure of two, three, or more layers (or sub-windows).

In some embodiments, the first window and the second window are spaced apart from each other by at least one spacer, such as to form an interior volume. The spacer(s) may comprise a frame structure. In some embodiments, the interior volume is filled with a gas (eg, argon (Ar)). In some embodiments, the interior volume may contain other gases, such as other noble gases (eg, krypton (Kr), xenon (Xn)), other (non-noble) gases, non-reactive gases (eg, , nitrogen), or a mixture of gases (eg air). Filling the interior volume with gas(es) may reduce conductive heat transfer through the IGU. The gas(es) may have a low thermal conductivity. The gas(es) can improve sound insulation. The gas(es) may have an increased atomic weight relative to the gas(es) (eg, air) in the surrounding environment. In some other implementations, the interior volume can be evacuated with gas(es). The inner volume may include a reduced pressure compared to the ambient pressure. The interior volume may have a different gas composition and/or pressure than that in the surrounding environment (eg, outside the IGU). The one or more spacers may determine (at least in part) the height of the interior volume (eg, 1308), ie, the degree of spacing between the first and second windows. The FLS of the spacer may be at least about 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or 40 mm. The spacer's FLS can have any value between the foregoing values (eg, from about 4 mm to about 25 mm, from about 20 mm to about 40 mm, or from about 4 mm to about 40 mm). In some embodiments, the spacing between the first window and the second window is in a range of about 6 mm to about 30 mm. The width of the spacer (eg, “D” in FIG. 2A ) may be in the range of about 5 mm to about 25 mm (although other widths are possible and may be desirable).

The at least one spacer may be a frame structure formed around multiple (eg, all) sides of the IGU (eg, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side of the IGU). Spacers may be formed from foam and/or plastic materials. Spacers can include polymers. Spacers may include elemental metals or metal alloys. A spacer may comprise a tube or channel structure. A spacer can have at least three sides. The spacer may have at least two sides (eg configured to seal to each of the lights). The spacer may have at least one side configured to support and/or isolate the light. The spacer can have at least one side configured to support a surface (eg, between the spacer and the light) to which the sealant will be applied. A first primary seal may be attached to the spacer. The first primary seal may hermetically seal the spacer and the second surface (eg, S2 of FIG. 13 ) of the first window (eg, 1304 ). A second primary seal may be attached to and/or hermetically seal the spacer and the first surface (eg, S3 of FIG. 13 ) of the second window (eg, 1306 ). In some embodiments, the primary seal may include an adhesive sealant such as polyisobutylene (PIB), for example. In some embodiments, the IGU includes a secondary seal that seals (eg, hermetically) a perimeter around the IGU. A secondary seal may be disposed outside the spacer. The spacer may be inset at a distance from the edges of the first window and the second window, which may be, for example, in the range of about 4 mm to about 8 mm (other distances are possible and desirable, however). In some embodiments, the secondary seal may include an adhesive sealant such as, for example, a polymeric material. The spacer material may resist water. Spacer materials can add structural support to an assembly. The spacer material may include silicone, polyurethane, Teflon, or a structural sealant that forms a watertight seal.

In some embodiments, one or more controllers are operably coupled to the window. One or more controllers may be associated with (eg, operably coupled to) one or more tintable windows. One or more controllers may be configured to control the optical state of the window, such as by applying a stimulus to the window. Stimuli may include, for example, voltage and/or current to the EC device coating. One or more controllers can have various sizes, formats and locations for the optically switchable windows they control. At least one controller may be attached to the light of the IGU or laminate thereof. At least one controller may be disposed within a frame that houses an IGU or laminate, for example. At least one controller may be located in a separate location from the IGU (or laminate thereof). The tintable window may include one, two, three or more electrochromic windows (eg, an electrochromic device on a transparent substrate). Individual windows of the electrochromic window may include, for example, an electrochromic coating having independently tintable zones. At least one controller can control at least two (eg, all) of the electrochromic coatings associated with the window(s), whether the electrochromic coatings are monolithic or zoned.

In some embodiments, the window controller is positioned proximate to the tintable window (eg, when not directly attached to the tintable window, IGU, or frame). For example, the window controller can be adjacent to the window, on the surface of one of the window's lights, within a wall next to the window (eg, a wall bordering and/or contacting the window), or a window. It may be within the frame of the assembly. In some embodiments, the window controller is an in situ controller. In some embodiments, the field controller is part of a window assembly (eg, including an IGU or laminate). The field controller may not need to match the electrochromic window. A field controller may be installed on-site (eg, at a target location). The field controller may travel with the window from the factory (eg, as part of an assembly). The field controller may be installed within the window frame of the window assembly and/or may be part of the IGU (and/or laminate) assembly. For example, the controller may be mounted on or between the windows of the IGU. For example, the controller can be placed on a window of the laminate. The controller may be a controller located on the visible portion of the IGU. At least a portion of the controller may be (eg, substantially) transparent to the average human eye. Additional examples of controllers are provided in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/951,410, entitled "SELF CONTAINED EC IGU", filed on November 14, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The localized controller may (i) be provided as more than one part (eg, part) and/or (ii) at least one part (eg, including a memory component that stores information about an associated electrochromic window). may be provided, (iii) may be provided as part of a window assembly, and/or (iv) may be provided with at least one separate part thereof. The controller may be configured to mate with at least one portion of the window assembly, IGU and/or laminate. A controller can be an assembly of interconnected parts. Interconnected components may not be disposed within a single housing. The interconnected components of the controller may be spaced apart (eg within the secondary seal of the IGU). The controller may constitute a compact unit. A compact unit can be in a single housing. A compact unit may exist in two or more separate components (eg, a dock and housing assembly) that are combined. The controller may be placed in an area that may or may not be visible to the occupant of the enclosure in which the controller resides.

In one embodiment, the window controller is integrated into or on (i) the IGU and/or (ii) the window frame. Integration of the controller may occur before, during, and/or after installing the tintable window at its target location. The controller (eg of the window) may be located within the same facility (eg building) as the window. For example, the controller may be integrated into or onto the IGU and/or window frame prior to leaving the manufacturing facility of the window and/or controller. In one embodiment, the controller is integrated within the IGU (eg, substantially within the secondary seal). In another embodiment, the controller is incorporated in or on the IGU partially, substantially or wholly within the periphery defined by the primary seal. The perimeter may be between the seal separator and the substrate (eg light).

The controller may be part of the IGU and/or window assembly. For example, the controller can move with the IGU or window unit. When the controller is part of an IGU assembly, the IGU may own the logic and characteristics of the controller.

In some embodiments, one or more properties of the electrochromic device(s) change over time (eg, through degradation). The characterization function may be used, for example, at least in part to update one or more control parameters used to indicate a change in the tint state of the IGU. If already installed within the electrochromic window unit, the logic and features of the controller may be used (at least in part) to calibrate one or more control parameters to match the intended installation. If already installed, the control parameters may be recalibrated to match one or more performance characteristics of the electrochromic device(s).

In other embodiments, the controller is not previously associated with a window. For example, a dock component having parts common to any electrochromic window may be associated with at least one (eg, each) window in a factory (eg, where the controller and/or window structures are produced). After and/or during window installation (or otherwise at a target location (eg, on-site)), a second component of the controller may be combined with a dock component to complete, for example, an electrochromic window controller assembly. A dock component may include circuitry. A dock component may include a chip. The chip can be factory programmed. Programming of the chip may take into account (eg, take into account) one or more physical characteristics and/or parameters of the particular window to which the dock is attached. For example, the surface that will face the interior of a building after installation is sometimes referred to as Surface 4 or "S4". A second component (referred to as “carrier”, “casing” or “housing”) may mate with the dock. When the second component is mated with the dock, it can be powered. The second component may be configured to read the chip. The second component may configure itself to electrically power the window, eg according to one or more specific characteristics and/or parameters stored on the chip. The delivered window may require (eg, only) its associated one or more characteristics and/or parameters stored on the chip. The chip may be integral with the window. More sophisticated circuitry and/or components (eg, compared to chips) may be combined with the controller-window assembly at a later time. For example, more sophisticated circuitry and/or components may (i) be shipped separately from the window, dock and/or second component, and/or (ii) (a) after a glazier has installed the window. and/or (b) installation by the window manufacturer followed by commissioning by the window manufacturer. In some embodiments, the chip is incorporated into a wire or wire connector (referred to herein as a “pigtail”). A wire or wire connector may be attached to the window controller.

The term “outboard” is understood herein to refer to a location closer to the exterior environment, while the term “inboard” is understood herein to refer to a location closer to the interior of a building. For example, in the case of an IGU with two windows, the window closer to the outside environment is referred to as an outboard window or exterior window, while a window located closer to the interior of the building is referred to as an inboard window or interior window. As illustrated with respect to the example shown in FIG. 13 , the different surfaces of the IGU may be referred to as S1, S2, S3 and S4 (assuming a two-pane IGU). S1 refers to the outward facing surface of an outboard light (eg, a surface that can be physically touched by a person standing outside). S2 refers to the inward facing surface of the outboard light. S3 refers to the outward facing surface of the inboard light. S4 refers to an inward facing surface of an inboard light (eg, a surface physically reachable by a person standing inside a building). That is, the surfaces are labeled S1 through S4 starting from the outermost surface of the IGU and counting inwards. This trend holds if the IGU contains three windows. In a particular embodiment employing two windows, an electrochromic device (or other optically switchable device) is disposed above S3. In certain embodiments, one or more of the surfaces has a structure for blocking the transmission of electromagnetic radiation. The IGU may include a shield stack of multiple conductive layers on an inner surface, such as S3 in FIG. 13 . Additional aspects of a shielding stack structure are presented in US patent application Ser. No. 15/709,339, filed on Sep. 19, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Examples of window controllers and features thereof include US patent application Ser. No. 13/449,248, filed Apr. 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS"; US Patent Application Serial No. 13/449,251, filed April 17, 2012, entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS"; US Patent Application Serial No. 15/334,835, filed October 26, 2016, entitled "CONTROLLERS FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE DEVICES"; and International Patent Application No. PCT/US17/20805, filed on March 3, 2017 and entitled "METHOD OF COMMISSIONING ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS", each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 12 shows an example of a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device 1200 in accordance with some embodiments. The EC device coating comprises a substrate 1202, a transparent conductive layer (TCL) 1204, an electrochromic layer (EC) 1206 (sometimes referred to as a cathodic coloring layer or a cathodic tinting layer), an ion conducting layer or region ( IC) 1208 , a counter electrode layer (CE) 1210 (sometimes referred to as an anode coloring layer or an anode tinting layer), and a second TCL 1214 . Elements 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, and 1214 are collectively referred to as electrochromic stack 1220. A voltage source 1216 operable to apply an electrical potential across the electrochromic stack 1220 has the effect of transitioning the electrochromic coating from, for example, a clear state to a tinted state. In another embodiment, the order of the layers is reversed relative to the substrate. That is, the layers are present in the following order: substrate, TCL, counter electrode layer, ion conducting layer, electrochromic material layer, TCL. In various embodiments, the ion conductor region (eg 1208 ) may be formed from a portion of the EC layer (eg 1206 ) and/or a portion of the CE layer (eg 1210 ). In such an embodiment, an electrochromic stack (eg, 1220) may be deposited to include a cathodic colored electrochromic material (EC layer) in direct physical contact with the anodic colored counter electrode material (CE layer). An ion conductor region (sometimes referred to as an interfacial region, or a substantially electronically insulating ion conducting layer or region) may be formed where the EC and CE layers meet, for example through heating and/or other processing steps. have. Examples of electrochromic devices (including, for example, those fabricated without depositing a discrete ionic conductor material) are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/462,725, filed May 2, 2012 and entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES." , which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the EC device coating may include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers can be used to improve certain optical properties, provide moisture resistance, and/or provide scratch resistance. These and/or other passive layers may serve to hermetically seal the EC stack 1220. Various layers, including transparent conductive layers (eg, 1204, 1214) may be treated with antireflective and/or protective layers (eg, oxide and/or nitride layers).

In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device is configured to cycle reversibly (eg, substantially) between a transparent state and a tinted state. Reversibility may be within the expected lifetime of the ECD. The expected lifespan may be at least about 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, or 100 years. The expected lifespan may be any value between the foregoing values (eg, from about 5 years to about 100 years, from about 5 years to about 50 years, or from about 50 years to about 100 years). An electrical potential can be applied to the electrochromic stack (e.g., 1220) such that when the window is in a first tinted state (e.g., transparent), the electrochromic material (e.g., 1206) can be in a tinted state. Available ions may be primarily present at the counter electrode (eg, 1210). When the potential applied to the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions can be transported across the ion conducting layer (e.g., 1208) into the electrochromic material, causing the material to enter a second tinted state (e.g., a tinted state). have.

It should be understood that references to the transition between a clear state and a tinted state are not limiting and suggest only one example of an electrochromic transition that may be realized. Unless otherwise specified herein, whenever reference is made to a transition between a transparent state and a tinted state, the corresponding device or process includes other optical state transitions such as non-reflective to reflective, and/or transparent to opaque. In some embodiments, the terms “transparent” and “bleached” refer to an optically neutral state, eg, an untinted, transparent and/or translucent state. In some embodiments, the "color" or "tint" of the electrochromic transition is not limited to any wavelength or range of wavelengths. Selection of appropriate electrochromic material and counter electrode material can control the associated optical transition (eg, from tinted to untinted state).

In certain embodiments, at least some (eg, all) of the materials making up the electrochromic stack are inorganic, solid (eg, solid state), or both inorganic and solid. Since various organic materials tend to degrade over time, especially when tinted building windows are exposed to heat and UV light, inorganic materials offer the advantage of reliable electrochromic stacks that can function for a long time. . In some embodiments, materials in a solid state may provide the advantage of minimal contamination and minimal leakage problems, as materials in a liquid state sometimes do. One or more of the layers in the stack may contain some amount (eg measurable) of organic material. The ECD or any portion thereof (eg, one or more of the layers) may contain little or no measurable organic matter. The ECD or any portion thereof (eg, one or more of the layers) may contain one or more liquids, which may be present in minor amounts. A small amount may be an amount of up to about 100 ppm, 10 ppm, or 1 ppm of ECD. Solid state materials may be deposited (or otherwise formed) using one or more processes employing a liquid component, such as certain processes employing sol-gel, physical vapor deposition, and/or chemical vapor deposition.

13 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a tintable window implemented in an insulated glass unit (“IGU”) 1300, in accordance with some implementations. The terms "IGU", "tintable window" and "optically switchable window" may be used interchangeably herein. It may be desirable for an IGU to serve as a base structure for holding an electrochromic window (also referred to herein as a “light”) when provided for installation within a building. IGU lights can be single-substrate or multi-substrate structures. The light may include, for example, a laminate of two substrates. An IGU (eg, with a double or triple pane configuration) can provide a number of advantages over single pane configurations. For example, multi-pane constructions may provide improved insulation, sound insulation, environmental protection, and/or durability when compared to single-pane constructions. A multi-window configuration may provide increased protection against ECD. For example, an electrochromic film (eg, as well as associated layers and conductive interconnects) may be formed on an interior surface of a multi-pane IGU, and may be formed by inert gas filling within an interior volume of the IGU (eg, 1308). can be protected The inert gas fill may provide at least some (thermal) insulation for the IGU. The electrochromic IGU may have thermal barrier capabilities, such as by a tintable coating that absorbs (and/or reflects) heat and light.

In some embodiments, an “IGU” includes two (or more) substantially transparent substrates. For example, an IGU may include two glass panes. At least one substrate of the IGU may include an electrochromic device disposed thereon. One or more windows of the IGU may have a separator disposed therebetween. The IGU may be of a hermetically sealed construction, eg may have an interior area isolated from the surrounding environment. A “window assembly” may include an IGU. A “window assembly” may include a (eg, stand-alone) laminate. A “window assembly” may include one or more electrical leads for connecting IGUs and/or laminates, for example. Electrical leads can operably couple (eg connect) one or more electrochromic devices to a voltage source, switch, etc., and can include a frame supporting the IGU or laminate. A window assembly may include a local controller (eg, a window controller), and/or a control component of the local controller (eg, a dock).

13 shows an example implementation of an IGU 1300 that includes a first window 1304 having a first surface S1 and a second surface S2. In some implementations, the first surface S1 of the first window 1304 faces an external environment, such as outdoors or an external environment. The IGU 1300 also includes a second window 1306 having a first surface S3 and a second surface S4. In some implementations, the second surface (eg, S4) of the second window (eg, 1306) provides an interior environment, such as that of a home, building, vehicle, or compartment thereof (eg, an enclosure therein, such as a room). Headed. In some implementations, the first and second windows (eg, 1304, 1306) are transparent or translucent, such as to light at least in the visible spectrum. For example, each of the windows (eg, 1304, 1306) may be formed from a glass material. The glass material may include architectural glass and/or shatterproof glass. Glass may include silicon oxide (SOx). The glass may include soda lime glass or float glass. The glass may include at least about 75% silica (SiO2). Glass may include an oxide such as Na2O or Cao. Glass may contain alkali or alkaline earth oxides. Glass may contain one or more additives. The first window and/or the second window may comprise any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal and/or mechanical properties. Other materials (eg substrates) that may be included in the first window and/or the second window may include plastic, semi-plastic and/or thermoplastic materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene, polycarbonate, allyl diglycol carbonate, SAN (styrene acrylonitrile copolymer), poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyester, and/or polyamide. The first window and/or the second window may include a mirror material (eg silver). In some implementations, the first window and/or the second window can be reinforced. Tempering may include tempering, heating, and/or chemical strengthening.

14 shows a schematic example of a computer system 1400 programmed or otherwise configured with one or more operations of any of the methods presented herein. The computer system controls (e.g. directs, monitors) various features of the methods, devices and systems of the present invention, such as, for example, controlling heating, cooling, lighting and/or ventilation of an enclosure, or any combination thereof. and/or control). The computer system may be part of or communicate with any sensor or sensor ensemble disclosed herein. A computer may be coupled to one or more mechanisms and/or any portion thereof disclosed herein. For example, a computer may be coupled to one or more sensors, valves, switches, lights, windows (eg, IGUs), motors, pumps, optical components, or any combination thereof.

A computer system may include a processing unit (eg, 1406) (“processor,” “computer,” and “computer processor” as used herein). The computer system may include a memory or memory location (e.g., 1402) (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), an electronic storage unit (e.g., 1404) (e.g., hard disk) for communicating with , a communication interface (e.g., 1403) (e.g., a network adapter) for communication with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices (e.g., 1405) such as caches, other memory, data storage, and/or electronic display adapters. can include In the example shown in FIG. 14 , memory 1402, storage unit 1404, interface 1403, and peripheral device 1405 communicate with processing unit 1406 through a communication bus (solid line), such as a motherboard. . The storage unit may be a data storage unit (or data store) for storing data. A computer system can be operatively coupled to a computer network ("network") (eg, 1401) with the aid of a communication interface. The network can be the Internet, the Internet and/or an extranet or an intranet and/or an extranet in communication with the Internet. In some cases, the network is a communication and/or data network. A network may include one or more computer servers enabling distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network may in some cases implement a peer-to-peer network with the aid of a computer system, enabling a device coupled to the computer system to behave as either a client or a server.

A processing unit may execute a series of machine readable instructions, which may be implemented as a program or software. Instructions may be stored in memory locations such as memory 1402 . Instructions may be directed to a processing unit, which may subsequently program or otherwise configure the processing unit to implement a method of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by a processing unit may include fetch, decode, execute and rewrite. A processing unit may interpret and/or execute instructions. Processors include microprocessors, data processors, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), systems on a chip (SOCs), coprocessors, network processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and application specific instruction set processors (ASIPs). , a controller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a chipset, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof. A processing unit may be part of a circuit such as an integrated circuit. One or more other electronic components of system 1400 may be included in the circuitry.

The storage unit may store files such as drivers, libraries, and stored programs. The storage unit may store user data (eg, user preferences and user programs). In some cases, the computer system may include one or more additional data storage units external to the computer system, such as located on a remote server that communicates with the computer system via an intranet or the Internet.

A computer system may communicate with one or more remote computer systems over a network. For example, a computer system may communicate with a remote computer system of a user (eg, an operator). Examples of remote computer systems are personal computers (e.g., portable PCs), slat or tablet PCs (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), phones, smartphones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android supported devices, Blackberry®) or personal digital assistants. A user (eg, client) may access a computer system through a network.

The methods described herein may be implemented via machine (eg, computer processor) executable code stored in an electronic storage location of a computer system, such as, for example, memory 1402 or electronic storage unit 1404 . Machine executable or machine readable code may be provided in the form of software. During use, processor 1406 may execute code. In some cases, the code may be retrieved from a storage unit and stored in memory for ready access by a processor. In some cases, an electronic storage unit may be excluded, and machine executable instructions are stored in memory.

The code may be precompiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or may be compiled during run time. The code may be supplied in a programming language of choice such that the code may be executed in pre-compiled or as-compiled form.

In some embodiments, a processor includes code. The code may be program instructions. Program instructions may cause at least one processor (eg, computer) to direct a feed forward and/or feedback control loop. In some embodiments, program instructions cause at least one processor to direct a closed loop and/or open loop control scheme. The control may be based at least in part on one or more sensor readings (eg, sensor data). One controller can direct multiple operations. At least two actions may be directed by different controllers. In some embodiments, different controllers may direct at least two of operations (a), (b) and (c). In some embodiments, different controllers may direct at least two of operations (a), (b) and (c). In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable medium causes each different computer to direct at least two of operations (a), (b) and (c). In some embodiments, different non-transitory computer readable media cause each different computer to direct at least two of operations (a), (b) and (c). A controller and/or computer readable medium may direct any of the devices or components thereof disclosed herein. A controller and/or computer readable medium may direct any operation of the methods disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, at least one sensor is operatively coupled to a control system (eg, a computer control system). Sensors include light sensors, acoustic sensors, vibration sensors, chemical sensors, electrical sensors, magnetic sensors, fluidity sensors, motion sensors, speed sensors, position sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, density sensors, distance sensors, or proximity sensors. can do. The sensor may include a temperature sensor, a weight sensor, a material (eg, powder) level sensor, a metering sensor, a gas sensor, or a humidity sensor. Metrology sensors may include measurement sensors (eg, height, length, width, angle, and/or volume). Metrology sensors may include magnetic, acceleration, orientation or optical sensors. A sensor may transmit and/or receive sound (eg, echo), magnetic, electronic or electromagnetic signals. Electromagnetic signals may include visible light, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasound, radio waves, or microwave signals. A gas sensor can sense any of the gases described herein. A distance sensor can be a type of metrology sensor. The distance sensor may include an optical sensor or a capacitive sensor. Temperature sensors include bolometers, bimetal strips, calorimeters, exhaust gas temperature gauges, flame detection, Garden gauges, Golay cells, heat flux sensors, infrared thermometers, microbolometers, microwave radiometers, net radiometers, and quartz thermometers. , resistance temperature detector, resistance thermometer, silicon bandgap temperature sensor, special sensor microwave/imager, temperature gauge, thermistor, thermocouple, thermometer (eg resistance thermometer) or pyrometer. The temperature sensor may include an optical sensor. A temperature sensor may include image processing. The temperature sensor may include a camera (eg, an IR camera, a visible light camera, or a CCD camera). The sensor may include a sensor array (eg, an IR sensor array). A camera and/or sensor array may include at least 2000, 3000 or 4000 pixels in its basic length scale. The sensor may be configured to detect radio frequencies. The device may include a geolocation device (eg, a device that includes Bluetooth, GPS, and/or UWV geolocation technology). Sensors may include acoustic sensors. Pressure sensors include Barograph, Barometer, Boost Gauge, Bourdon Gauge, Hot Filament Ionization Gauge, Ionization Gauge, McLeod Gauge, Vibrating U-Tube, Permanent Downhole Gauge, Piezometer, Pirani Gauge, Pressure Sensor, Pressure Gauge , tactile sensors, or time pressure gauges. Position sensors include Auxanometer, Capacitive Displacement Sensor, Capacitive Sensing, Free Fall Sensor, Gravity Meter, Gyroscope Sensor, Shock Sensor, Inclinometer, Integrated Circuit Piezoelectric Sensor, Laser Distance Meter, Laser Surface Speedometer, LIDAR, Linear Encoder, Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT), Liquid Capacitive Inclinometer, Odometer, Photoelectric Sensor, Piezoelectric Accelerometer, Speed Sensor, Rotary Encoder, Rotary Variable Differential Transformer, Cell Scene, Shock Detector, Shock Data Logger, Tilt Sensor, Tachometer, Ultrasonic It may include a thickness gauge, variable reluctance sensor, or speed receiver. Optical sensors include charge coupled devices, colorimeters, contact image sensors, electro-optic sensors, infrared sensors, motion inductance detectors, light emitting diodes (e.g. light sensors), light pointing potentiometer sensors, Nichols radiometers, fiber optic sensors, optical position sensors, Photodetectors, photodiodes, photomultipliers, phototransistors, photoelectric sensors, photoionization detectors, photomultipliers, photoresistors, photoswitches, phototubes, scintillators, Shack-Hartmann, single photon avalanche diodes, superconductors nanowire single photon detectors, transition edge sensors, visible light photon counters, or wavefront sensors. One or more sensors may be coupled to a control system (eg, processor, computer).

In some embodiments, the target device and/or (local) network is configured for wireless communication. A target device may include a transceiver. In some embodiments, the transceiver and/or local network may be configured to transmit and receive one or more signals using a personal area network (PAN) standard, such as IEEE 802.15.4, for example. In some embodiments, signals may include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or EnOcean signals (eg, wide bandwidth). The one or more signals may include ultra-wide bandwidth (UWB) signals (eg, having a frequency within a range of about 2.4 to about 10.6 gigahertz (GHz), or about 7.5 GHz to about 10.6 GHz). An ultra-wideband signal may have a specific bandwidth greater than about 20%. An ultra-wideband signal may have a bandwidth greater than about 500 megahertz (MHz). One or more signals may use very low energy levels for short distances. Signals (eg, with radio frequencies) may employ spectrum capable of penetrating solid structures (eg, walls, doors, and/or windows). The low power may be up to 25 milliwatts (mW), 50 mW, 75 mW, or 100 mW. The low power may be any value between the above values (eg, 25 mW to 100 mW, 25 mW to 50 mW, or 75 mW to 100 mW). In some embodiments, a local network (eg, comprising one or more fixed sensors and/or fixed transceivers) is configured to: (I) locate a temporary transceiver in real time; (II) with an accuracy of about 20, 10, or 5 centimeters; or (Ill) to transmit and detect ultra-wideband radio waves, and/or (IV) to control a facility in which one or more fixed sensors and/or local networks of fixed transceivers are deployed. It is configured to operably couple to the configured control system.

In some embodiments, the local network incorporates geolocation technology (eg, Global Positioning System (GPS), Bluetooth (BLE), Ultra Wideband (UWB), and/or dead reckoning), such as using a microlocation chip. and/or facilitate. A geolocation description can measure the location of a signal source (e.g., the location of a temporary tag comprising a transceiver that facilitates the geolocation description) by at least 100 centimeters (cm), 75 cm, 50 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 10 cm, Or it may facilitate determining with an accuracy of 5 cm. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation of the signal includes ultra-wideband (UWB) radio waves, ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves, or radio waves used in global positioning systems (GPS). In some embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation includes electromagnetic waves at a frequency of at least about 300 MHz, 500 MHz or 1200 MHz. In some embodiments, the signal includes location and/or time data. In some embodiments, the tag uses Bluetooth, UWB, UHF and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. In some embodiments, the signal has a spatial capacity of at least about 1013 bits per second per square meter (bits per second per square meter: bit/s/m ² ).

In some embodiments, pulse-based ultra-wideband (UWB) technology (e.g., ECMA-368, or ECMA-369) is used (e.g., up to about 300 feet ('), 250', 230', 200', or 150' ) is a wireless technology for transmitting large amounts of data at low power (eg, less than about 1 millivolt (mW), 0.75 mW, 0.5 mW, or 0.25 mW) over short distances. A UWB signal may occupy at least about 750 MHz, 500 MHz or 250 MHz of the bandwidth spectrum, and/or at least about 30%, 20% or 10% of its center frequency. A UWB signal can be transmitted by one or more pulses. The component simultaneously broadcasts digital signal pulses that can be timed (eg, accurately) relative to the carrier signal, across multiple frequency channels. Information may be transmitted, for example, by modulating the timing and/or positioning of a signal (eg, a pulse). Signal information may be transmitted by encoding the polarity of a signal (eg, a pulse), its amplitude, and/or using a quadrature signal (eg, a pulse). A UWB signal may be a low power information transmission protocol. UWB technology may be used for (eg, indoor) location applications. The broad spectrum of UWB includes low frequencies with long wavelengths, which allow UWB signals to penetrate various materials including various building fixtures (eg, walls). A wide range of frequencies including, for example, low transmission frequencies can reduce the likelihood of multipath propagation errors (without wishing to be bound by theory, since some wavelengths can have line-of-sight trajectories). UWB communication signals (eg, pulses) can be short (eg, up to about 70 cm, 60 cm, or 50 cm for pulses about 600 MHz, 500 MHz, or 400 MHz wide; or about 1 GHz, 1.2 GHz in bandwidth). , up to about 20 cm, 23 cm, 25 cm or 30 cm for pulses of 1.3 GHz or 1.5 GHz). Short communication signals (eg, pulses) may reduce the likelihood of a reflected signal (eg, pulse) overlapping the original signal (eg, pulse).

In certain embodiments, the building network infrastructure has a vertical data plane (between building floors) and a horizontal data plane (within a single floor or multiple contiguous floors). The horizontal data plane and the vertical data plane may have (eg, substantially) similar at least one data transfer capability. The horizontal data plane and the vertical data plane may have (eg, substantially) similar at least one type of network component. In other cases, these two data planes have different data transfer capabilities. In some cases, the horizontal data plane and the vertical data plane have (eg, substantially) the same (or similar) data carrying capabilities and (eg, substantially) the same (or similar) types of network components. In other cases, the vertical data plane and the horizontal data plane have at least one (eg, all) data carrying capabilities and/or network components different from each other. For example, the vertical data plane may include network components for fast communication (eg, data transmission) speed and/or bandwidth. The faster communication rates are at least approximately 1 gigabit per second (Gbit/s), 10 Gbit/s, 50 Gbit/s, 100 Gbit/s, 250 Gbit/s, 500 Gbit/s, 750 Gbit/s, It can be 1 terabit per second (terabit per second: Tbit/s), or 1.125 Tbit/s. A higher communication rate is any communication rate between the aforementioned rates (e.g., from about 1 Gbit/s to about 1.125 Tbit/s, from about 1 Gbit/s to about 500 Gbit/s, or from about 250 Gbit/s to about 1.125 Tbit/s).

The description of FIGS. 15-18 presents a network topology that can replace the topology presented for some other embodiments disclosed herein, e.g., the network topology of FIGS. 15-18 replaces a linear bus topology in some cases. can do. The network topology described with respect to FIGS. 15-18 employs control components, such as control panels, which may have similar and/or overlapping functional and/or design elements to components described in other embodiments presented herein. can do. Data transferred on the topologies of FIGS. 15 to 18 and/or data protocols employed therein may be replaced or supplemented by data and/or data protocols described in other embodiments presented herein. Data transferred on the topologies of FIGS. 15 to 18 and/or data protocols employed therein may be transferred within a frequency range described in other embodiments presented herein. When electrically conductive data carrying lines (eg, coaxial or twisted (eg, paired) cables) are used in the network topology presented in FIGS. 15-18, the vertical data and/or horizontal data, in certain embodiments, electrically conductive data The delivery line may be configured to deliver electrical power to an end device.

Different physical network topologies may be employed to supply electrical power and/or communication data to building devices in a horizontal data plane (eg, on a given floor of a building, or on multiple (eg, contiguous) floors). For example, FIG. 15 shows three possible physical network topologies A, B and C for providing data communication between a control panel 1 and a building device 2 arranged around the perimeter of a building floor 1503. do. The dashed line represents the (eg, high-speed) data communication path provided by fiber optic cabling.

Network topology A has a star configuration in which each building device 2 is directly connected to the control panel 1 by means of a dedicated (eg fiber optic cable) link. Network topology A may be easy to design and implement (eg, requires minimal labor time and/or cost). Network A may facilitate the addition of new building devices to the network. However, a central single control panel can represent a single point of failure within the network. If a fault occurs in the control panel 1, data communication to all building devices 2 on the floor may be affected. Moreover, the amount of wiring (eg fiber optic or other cabling) required for the network scales linearly with the number of building devices 2 .

Network topology B is such that building devices 2 are connected to a central control panel 1 by means of intermediate control panels 1' - each intermediate control panel 1' being associated with a number of building devices 2. - Has a distributed star (or tree) configuration. Compared to topology A, network topology B may reduce the amount of wiring (eg fiber optic or other cabling) required to provide data communication for each building device 2 in the network. The amount of wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cabling) required in network B scales linearly as more devices are added to the network, but the length of wiring required for each additional device in topology B is less than in network topology A. . Although network topology B incorporates more control panels than network topology A, resulting in a somewhat increased level of physical redundancy, the central control panel 1 represents a single point of failure within the network.

Network topology C has a linear configuration in which devices 2 are connected to a central control panel 1 via a linear (eg fiber optic or other cable) bus. Compared to network topology A, network topology C reduces the amount of wiring required to connect each device 2 to the control panel 1 .

In various embodiments, a ring topology is employed for data communication and/or electrical power distribution lines on a building floor. In some cases, the wiring, control panels, radios, antennas and other network components associated with the ring are located in and/or on the exterior structure (or skin) of the building. Similarly, at least some (eg, all) network components of other network topologies described herein may be disposed within enclosure (eg, building) skins. The skin of a building may include various structures that serve as the outer structure of the building. Building skins may include fixtures (eg walls). Examples include exterior walls of buildings, exterior windows including selectively optically switchable windows, facades, window framing structures, and the like. In various embodiments, the skin of a building may provide mullions, transoms, and/or other structures that may provide internal passageways for network cabling and/or support surfaces for mounting control panels or other network devices. includes

Network and/or power distribution components deployed on the building skin provide data communication and/or electrical power distribution functions such as communications, computing platforms, wired or wireless power to the building, and/or other attributes described herein. can provide

In certain embodiments, at least some (eg, all) of the communication and/or electrical power distribution components are removed during (eg, initially) during the building construction process (eg, prior to constructing interior rooms, prior to installation of exterior windows, or before installing the IT infrastructure, etc.). In certain embodiments, at least some (eg, all) of the communication and/or electrical power distribution components are installed after the building construction process is finished. In certain embodiments, at least some (eg, all) of the communication and/or electrical power distribution components are installed during occupancy of the building. In some cases, at least some of the communication and/or electrical power distribution components are available to construction personnel to facilitate building and installation operations.

In some cases, a communication and/or electrical power distribution system (eg, network system) initially installed in a building skin may include some or all building devices, such as sensors, emitters, and/or tintable (eg, optically switchable) windows. is not configured to control A network system (eg, a controller operably coupled thereto) may be configured, at a later stage, to control such a device. For example, one vendor provides some or all of the telecommunications and electrical power distribution infrastructure to the building skin, and a second vendor provides sensing units and/or optically switchable windows connected to and ultimately controlled by the infrastructure. provides

16A shows a schematic plan view of a physical network topology for a floor 1600 of a building, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The floor network is a ring of primary first wires (eg, fiber optic or other cables) interconnected in series by segments 1607, 1608, 1609, 1610, 1611, 1612 of first wires (eg, fiber optic or other cables). Distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, and 1606 forming a. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, 1606 forms a node within the primary ring. The primary ring may extend around the floor adjacent to the periphery of the floor. Each distributed control panel 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, 1606 also has a corresponding second wiring (eg, coaxial or other cable) network branch 1601', 1602', 1603', 1604' , 1605', 1606'). Each second (eg coaxial or other cable) network branch extends along a respective portion of the perimeter of the building floor. As shown, a given control panel may include two or more second wire (eg, coaxial or other cable) branches, each of which is not referenced in the figure. The first wiring and the second wiring may be of different wiring types. The first wire and the second wire may be of (eg, substantially) the same wire type.

An exemplary second wiring (eg, coaxial or other cable) network branch 1601' is shown in more detail in FIG. 16B. The network branch 1601' is connected to a linear second wire (eg, coaxial or other cable) by a corresponding second wire (eg, coaxial or other cable) drop line (1613', 1614', 1615', 1616', 1617'). branching devices 1613, 1614, 1615, 1616, 1617 coupled to branch lines 1618, 1619 (eg, coaxial or other cables). Drop lines 1613', 1614', 1615', 1616', and 1617' may be connected to linear second branch lines 1618 and 1619 by tabs 1623, 1624, 1625, 1626, and 1627. Device controllers (e.g., local controllers) 1620, 1621, and 1622 are installed on drop lines 1613', 1615', and 1617'. Branch targets (eg, devices) 1613 , 1614 , 1615 , 1616 , 1617 can be any type of building device that requires electrical power and/or data supply. For example, the branching device may include one or more electrochromic devices (e.g., an electrochromic window or insulating glass unit (IGU)), an external sensing device (e.g., a light or weather sensor), an internal sensing device (e.g., , internal air quality monitoring devices or asset tracking devices), communication devices (eg antennas, receivers, transceivers or radios), digital architectural elements, or building security devices (eg burglar alarms), lighting, or HVAC components. can include Distributed control panel 1601 includes a headend unit 1628 and is connected to a (eg, dedicated) electrical power supply 1629, such as an AC power supply. In some embodiments, the dedicated AC power supply is provided by a power supply line, such as a coaxial or other cable line. Dedicated power lines may run around the perimeter of the building, eg parallel to other (eg fiber optic) cabling in the primary ring. In another embodiment, the distributed control panel is connected to the DC power supply, for example by a DC power supply line. The DC power supply lines may run around the perimeter of the building, eg parallel to the primary ring (eg fiber optic) cabling. The headend unit 1628 in the distributed control panel 1601 functions as a gateway for data communication between the first wire (eg, fiber optic) primary ring and the second wire (eg, coaxial cable) network branch 1601'. can do. Each of the second wire network branches 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', and 1606' may be similar in format to the branch 1601', but the branch device and device controller present in each branch The number and type of may differ, for example depending on the requirements of the building.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 16A, a fiber optic primary ring is configured for communication of data, such as control data for controlling various branch devices, to distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, 1606 around the ring. Connect to the building (e.g. Ethernet) network. The first wire (eg, fiber optic) primary ring, optionally with low transmission loss and attenuated (eg, little or no) interference, eg, greater than about 1 Gbit/s per channel (eg, at least about 10 Gbit/s per channel) s), high-speed data transmission can be supported. In some embodiments, the fiber optic primary ring 1612 does not provide electrical power transmission to the distributed control panel.

Second wire (e.g., coaxial cable) network branches 1601', 1602', 1603', 1604', 1605', 1606' are distributed control panels 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, 1605, 1606 around the ring. ) to branch devices in each second wire (eg, coaxial cable) network branch. The second wire can supply both electrical power and data. Electrical power may be supplied to the distributed control panel by one or more dedicated power supplies. In embodiments where AC power is supplied to the distributed control panel, the power may be rectified to DC and converted to a lower voltage within the distributed control panel (eg by an AC to DC converter), such as about 24 V DC. can The lower voltage power may be transmitted to the branching device, for example, through a second wire (eg, coaxial cable) branch line. In an alternative embodiment where DC power is supplied to the distributed control panel, the power may be converted to a lower voltage within the distributed control panel (eg, by a DC-DC converter). The lower voltage power can be transmitted to the branch device through a second wiring (eg, coaxial cable) branch line. Data from the first wire (eg fiber optic) primary ring may be received by a headend unit in a distributed control panel, eg using a protocol such as MoCA, G.hn and/or any of a variety of cellular communication protocols. Thus, it can be transmitted to the branch device through the second wire (eg, coaxial cable) branch line. In certain embodiments, electrical power is transmitted over a second wired (eg, coaxial) line, using, for example, a DC power line communication (PLC) protocol and/or a power over Ethernet protocol. PLC methods can allow both electrical power and data to be transmitted along a single branch line to branch devices.

Each distributed control panel node within the primary ring shown in FIG. 16A may be accessible by two different first wire (eg fiber optic) paths, eg due to the network ring topology. Through the use of a network protocol (such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), which is often used in networks with ring topologies), it may be possible to build redundancy into a floor network. For example, if a given node generates a fault that prevents (e.g., prevents) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the ring may occur (reaching each node via alternate paths). may not be prevented). Thus, fault-tolerant redundancy can be built into the network. Redundancy can be advantageous when one or more network branches include branch device(s) used for applications requiring high reliability (eg, reduced number of failure events), such as burglar alarms or communication devices. In some embodiments, the distributed control panel also includes a device to connect to a wireless local area network (eg, via Wi-Fi), providing an additional layer of fault-tolerant redundancy.

The ring topology of the network shown in FIG. 16A may be simpler to install (eg, require less labor, less trained labor, and/or be cheaper to install). In addition, the use of a linear second wire (eg coaxial cable) network branch around the primary ring may, for example, allow the first wire (eg fiber optic or other wire) necessary to provide (eg high speed) data communication to all devices in the network. By reducing the length of cabling), it can provide significant cost reduction. The topology illustrated in FIG. 16A may strike a balance between fault tolerance across the floor, provision of (eg, high-speed) data communications, ease of installation, and low installation cost.

In certain embodiments, the building network infrastructure has a vertical data plane (between building floors) and one or more horizontal data planes (within a floor or within multiple (eg, contiguous) floors). In some cases, the horizontal data plane and the vertical data plane have (eg, substantially) the same (or similar) data transfer capabilities and/or data communication transfer components. In other cases, these two data planes have at least one different data carrying capability. In one example, the vertical data plane includes data carrying communication components that support Ethernet transmissions of at least about 10 Gigabits/second or faster (eg, using UTP wires and/or fiber optic cables), and the horizontal data plane includes, for example, and a data forwarding component that also supports gigabit Ethernet transmission of at least about 10 gigabits per second or faster over optical fiber. In some cases, the horizontal data plane supports data transmission over a communication protocol (eg G.hn protocol and/or MoCA protocol, eg MoCA 2.5 standard or MoCA 3.0 standard). In certain embodiments, the connection between the at least two floors on the vertical data plane employs a control panel with a (eg, high-speed) Ethernet switch. These same control panels are located on a given floor, via (eg high-speed) switches (eg fiber optic switches) and/or communication protocol (eg MoCA) interfaces and associated (eg coaxial) cables laid on the horizontal data plane. It can communicate with the node(s).

17A shows a distributed control panel in which segments 1707, 1708, 1709, 1710, 1711, 1712 of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) are connected together in series to form a primary first wiring ring 1713. Shows an example physical network topology for floor 1700 of a building, including 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706. The network also includes distributed control panels 1714, 1715, 1716 connected to each other in series by segments of the first wire 1717, 1718, 1719 to form a secondary first wire ring 1720 within the primary ring 1713. ). The first wire designates a first wire type. The secondary ring 1720 is connected to the primary ring 1713 by a segment 1721 of the first wire. Each distributed control panel 1701 , 1702 , 1703 , 1704 , 1705 , and 1706 forms a node within the primary ring 1713 , while each distributed control panel 1714 , 1715 , and 1716 forms a node within the secondary ring 1720 . form a node Each distributed control panel (1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, 1716) also has a corresponding second wire (eg coaxial cable) network branch 1701', 1702', 1703 ', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', 1716'). The second wire designates a second wire type. A primary ring 1713 extends around the floor adjacent to the periphery of the floor, while each of the primary ring second wire network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706' It extends along each portion of the periphery of the Secondary ring 1720 extends around the center of the floor within primary ring 1713, as do each of secondary ring second wire network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716'. The secondary ring's control panel and second wiring line are located inside the interior area of the floor of the building, eg, inside the physical perimeter of the floor where the primary ring 1713 is located. The secondary ring may be located on and/or within an interior wall of the floor, a fixture, or other structure. Such structures are typically constructed after the perimeter or skin of the building has been constructed. Thus, in some cases, the primary ring of the floor is constructed before its secondary ring. The first wiring and the second wiring may be of the same wiring type. The first wiring and the second wiring may be of different wiring types.

As in the embodiment shown in the example shown in FIG. 16A, each of the second wire network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', 1716' ) includes one or more branching devices coupled to the linear second wiring branch line by a corresponding second wiring drop line (and a device controller if necessary). Each distributed control panel 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, 1716 includes a corresponding headend unit and has a corresponding AC power supply. The headend unit within each distributed control panel transmits data between a first wire primary ring 1713 or a first wire (e.g., fiber optic) secondary ring 1720 and each second wire (e.g., coaxial cable) network branch. It serves as a gateway for communication. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, a first wire primary ring 1713 and a first wire secondary ring 1720 connect distributed control panels on the rings to a building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes. do. In addition, a second wire network branch disposed around the ring connects the various distributed control panels to the branch devices for supply of both electrical power and data. Electrical power is supplied to the distributed control panel by a dedicated AC power supply, which is rectified to DC within the distributed control panel and transmitted to the branch device through a second wiring branch. Data from the first wire primary and secondary rings 1713, 1720 is received by a headend unit in a distributed control panel, e.g., using a communications protocol (e.g. G.hn, MoCA, and/or cellular protocol): It is transmitted to the branch device through the second wiring branch line. Instead of AC power, DC power can be transmitted using power line communication (PLC) and/or electrical power methods over Ethernet.

In the example shown in FIG. 17A , each distributed control panel node within the primary ring 1713 is accessible by two different primary wire (eg, fiber optic) paths due to the network ring topology. Additionally, each distributed control panel node within secondary ring 1720 is also accessible by at least two different first wire paths. Through the use of a network protocol such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy into the floor network in a manner similar to that in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16A. For example, if a given node within the primary ring 1713 generates a fault that prevents (e.g., prevents) communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the primary ring may take an alternate route. Since each node can be reached through Similarly, if a distributed control panel 1715 or 1716 in the secondary ring 1720 generates a fault that prevents (e.g., prevents) the communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the secondary ring , are not impeded (e.g. prevented), as they can reach them via an alternative route.

Including a secondary ring in the floor network can allow data and electrical power to be supplied to one or more branching devices located within the interior of a building. For example, such a network topology may be suitable for floor designs incorporating interior rooms, other enclosed spaces, or interior open spaces such as an atrium. The interior open space may be surrounded by branching targets (eg, devices) such as electrochromic windows, antennas, or sensor units. Thus, the secondary ring can be arranged around the inner perimeter of the building, for example around the perimeter of an interior open space within the building. A secondary ring topology may be suitable for floor designs that do not incorporate interior open spaces. In such an embodiment, the secondary ring may supply electrical power and data to branching devices located within the interior of a building, such as electrochromic windows integrated within a room divider, interior sensors, or burglar alarms.

The primary ring 1713 and secondary ring 1720 of the floor network may be installed at the same time or at different times. This time may be during and/or after construction of the building. For example, secondary ring 1720 may be installed after primary ring 1713 is installed. In some embodiments, primary ring 1713 may be installed when the building is constructed, and secondary ring 1720 may be added to the floor network later, when the internal arrangement of the floor is determined or reconfigured. 17B shows a distributed control panel in which segments 1707, 1708, 1709, 1710, 1711, 1712 of first wiring (e.g., fiber optic or other cable) are connected together in series to form a primary first wiring ring 1713. Shows an example physical network topology for floor 1700 of a building, including 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706. The network also includes distributed control panels 1714, 1715, 1716 connected to each other in series by segments of the first wire 1717, 1718, 1719 to form a secondary first wire ring 1720 within the primary ring 1713. ). Secondary ring 1720 is connected to primary ring 1713 at two different locations by segments 1721 and 1722 of the first wire. Each distributed control panel 1701 , 1702 , 1703 , 1704 , 1705 , 1706 forms a node within the primary ring 1713 , while each distributed control panel 1714 , 1715 , 1716 operates within the secondary ring 1720 . form a node Each distributed control panel (1701, 1702, 1703, 1704, 1705, 1706, 1714, 1715, 1716) also has a corresponding second wire (eg coaxial cable) network branch 1701', 1702', 1703 ', 1704', 1705', 1706', 1714', 1715', 1716'). Primary ring 1713 extends around the floor adjacent to the periphery of the floor, while each of the primary ring second wire network branches 1701', 1702', 1703', 1704', 1705', 1706' It extends along each portion of the periphery of the Secondary ring 1720 extends around the center of the floor within primary ring 1713, as do each of secondary ring second wire network branches 1714', 1715', and 1716'.

The design of the network topology of FIG. 17B is similar to that of the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A. In particular, the first wire primary ring 1713 and the first wire secondary ring 1720 connect the distributed control panels on the ring to the building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes, while the second wire disposed around the ring. A two-wire network branch may connect various distributed control panels to the branch device for supply of both electrical power and data.

As in the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A, each distributed control panel node within the primary ring 1713 shown in FIG. 17B is accessed by at least two different first wire (eg, fiber optic) paths due to the network ring topology. It is possible. Each distributed control panel node within secondary ring 1720 is also accessible by at least two different first wire paths. Thus, through the use of a network protocol such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy into a floor network. For example, if a given node within the primary ring 1713 generates a fault that prevents (e.g., prevents) communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the primary ring may take an alternate route. Since each node can be reached through Similarly, if a given node within secondary ring 1720 generates a fault that prevents (e.g., prevents) communication of signals through that node, communication with neighboring nodes on the secondary ring may occur via an alternate route. Because each node can be reached, it is not hindered (eg, prevented). The inclusion of the two first wire links 1721, 1722 between the primary and secondary rings ensures that no matter where the fault occurs in the primary ring (even if it occurs in a node forming a network connection to the secondary ring) Ensures that nodes within the secondary ring remain reachable and vice versa. The first wiring links 1721 and 1722 also ensure that each node in the secondary ring is reachable no matter where a defect occurs in the secondary ring, even if the defect is in a distributed control panel directly connected to the primary ring. Thus, the embodiment shown in FIG. 17B has increased fault tolerance redundancy and thus increased reliability. Among other advantages, this multi-access topology can provide more reliable antenna coverage across the entire floor. Thus, wireless communications, such as cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, are less likely to be disrupted if a head end or link malfunctions (eg, goes down).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18 , the physical network topology for a floor 1800 of a building is segments 1810, 1811, 1812, 1813, 1814, 1815, 1816, 1817 of a first wire (eg, fiber optic or other cable). and distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808 and 1809 connected to each other in series by , 1818 and 1819. Distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806 are adjacent to the periphery of the floor and form nodes of an outer first wiring ring 1820 extending around the floor. Distributed control panels 1801 , 1804 , 1807 , 1808 , 1809 form nodes within a first wired network chord linking opposite sides of outer ring 1820 . Therefore, two sub-rings in the floor network, that is, a first sub-ring connecting the distributed control panels 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1807, 1808, and 1809, and the distributed control panels 1801, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, 1809) it is possible to define a second sub-ring. Each distributed control panel (1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, 1805, 1806, 1807, 1808, 1809) has a corresponding second wiring (eg, coaxial cable) network branch (1801', 1802', 1803', 1804 ', 1805', 1806', 1807', 1808', 1809'). The design of the network topology of FIG. 18 is such that a first wire connects the distributed control panel to the building Ethernet network for (e.g., high-speed) data communication purposes, while a second wire network branch provides electrical power and communication signals (e.g., data ) is similar to that of the previous embodiment in that it connects the distributed control panel to the branching device for supply of both. Each distributed control panel node in the network shown in FIG. 18 is accessible by at least two different first wire (eg, fiber optic) paths due to the interconnected network ring topology. Thus, through the use of a network protocol such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), it is possible to build fault-tolerant redundancy into a floor network. The embodiment shown in FIG. 18 can achieve greater overall fault tolerance redundancy and thus higher reliability than the embodiment of FIG. 17A, which, with the total length of the required first wires reduced, A similar level of reliability is achieved compared to the embodiment.

In some embodiments, each node in the network (eg, each distributed control panel node in the network shown in FIGS. 16A, 17A, 17B, or 10) has a respective first wire (eg, fiber optic) ring. and two or more distributed control panels each including a headend connecting the second wire (eg, coaxial cable) to the branch line. In such an embodiment, the connection between each branch line and the first wiring network will be maintained even if the distributed control panel (eg, headend) fails. Such additional additional fault-tolerant redundancy may be desirable, for example, when the branching device provides communication connectivity (eg, connection to an external cellular network).

16A-18, as well as related embodiments employing a ring topology, can provide redundancy and availability. If one control panel, headend, or data link malfunctions (eg, goes down), most of the devices on the network remain available. The embodiment of FIGS. 16A-18 and related embodiments can be relatively simple to install. In some cases, the outer ring's network components are installed first, followed by the inner ring's network components, or vice versa. In certain embodiments, some or all of the secondary wires (eg, coaxial cables), such as those provided in the examples shown in FIGS. 16A-18, are RG-11 coaxial cables.

Control panels employed in ring topology embodiments such as those shown in the examples of FIGS. 16A to 18 may include (a) an electrical power supply (same enclosure) integrated with a communication node having a communication component such as a network switch, or (b) It includes various combination options of network components, such as separate electrical power supplies and communication nodes (different enclosures) (e.g., installed at the same location). In various implementations, the control panel provides DC power and communications to downstream devices such as window controllers and digital architectural elements. As an example, DC power may be provided at least about 2 Watts (W), 4 W, or 20 W.

For example, the type of fiber optic cable that may be used for the network ring and/or connection segment may be selected based at least in part on the data communication needs of the branching device. Fiber optic cabling may enable data transmission over large distances (eg, over at least about 10 km), per channel, at rates of, for example, at least about 100 Gbit/s. Each fiber optic ring may include a number of individual fibers, eg, to provide the necessary bandwidth and/or additional fault tolerance redundancy. Sheathed fiber optic cabling, such as aluminum sheathed fiber optic cabling, may be used to provide physical protection and/or crush resistance.

The type of coaxial cable used for the coaxial cable network branch may be selected based at least in part on the electrical power supply and/or communication speed requirements of the branch device. In some embodiments, the branches of each coaxial network branch are formed using RG-11 coaxial cable. An RG-11 coaxial cable can support at least about 24 V, class 2, DC power supply. The conductive lines of RG-11 coaxial cable can be sufficiently thick that the branch lines exhibit low losses and can carry high electrical power. For example, the loss-per-foot of RG-11 coaxial cable can be up to about 1/10 the loss-per-foot of thinner RG-6 coaxial cable. However, in other embodiments, a different type of coaxial cable may be used to form the branch line.

In certain embodiments, the coaxial cable drop line may be formed using RG-6 coaxial cable. RG-6 coaxial cable is thinner and more flexible than RG-11 coaxial cable, and may be better suited for supplying electrical power to individual branch devices. The type of coaxial cable used to form the drop line can vary. For example, in some embodiments, an RG-6 coaxial cable drop line connects the device controller to an RG-11 coaxial cable branch, while an MS cable connects the device controller to the branch device. A smaller diameter coaxial cable serving as a drop line may be connected by tabs to a larger diameter coaxial cable serving as a branch line. For example, an RG-6 coaxial cable drop line may be connected to an RG-11 coaxial cable branch, such as by a distribution joint (eg, tap). The tap may be, for example, an inductive tap that transfers electrical power between the branch line and the drop line without establishing a direct conductive path between the branch line and the drop line. A distribution junction (eg, tap) may be configured to inject a small fraction of the electrical power transmitted by the branch line into the corresponding drop line.

Distribution junctions (eg, taps or splitters) may be employed on the trunk lines to deliver (eg, electrical and/or communication signals) power to the drop lines. Unlike a splitter that splits the power or signal in half, a distribution junction (eg tap) can draw a small amount (eg less than half a fraction) of power or signal, eg 0.5 W per tap. For example, if a trunk delivers 15 W to the tap, and 14.5 W of that power is available downstream on the trunk, 0.5 W is shunted through the drop line to the device. The small amount may be less than about 0.1, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.4 or 0.5 times the electrical power and/or communication signal power. The cabling system (eg distribution junction) may couple power to, for example, facilitate injection of additional power downstream of the floor controller, eg to supplement power that is attenuated in the cabling system.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction is passive. In some embodiments, the distribution junction is dynamic. The distribution junction may include dynamic elements such as control circuitry (eg microcontrollers). The dynamic element may signal (eg, a control system) when there is a predictable (eg, imminent) power drain (eg, which may require replenishment of electrical power to keep the target active). A dynamic element may facilitate power negotiation. For example, the dynamic element may identify a binding target (eg, device) prior to its complete binding to the network (eg, by probing the target device upon connection). The dynamic element may incorporate power negotiation algorithms (eg, will consider current and/or predicted power distribution in the cabling system). Power negotiation may include PoE standards that may specify auto-negotiation between a client (eg, a target via a local controller) and a master (eg, a higher layer controller in a control panel of a floor, for example). The target device (eg, client) can provide its (eg, electrical) power demand value, and the master (eg, controller) can provide the total amount of power that the master can allocate (eg, the cabling network bound to the controller). may be accepted or rejected on demand based at least in part on the total capacity running on it. The cabling system (i) measures the (eg, DC) voltage along the length of the trunk line, (ii) provides feedback to a control panel and/or other device, and/or (iii) electrical (eg, DC) device(s) to monitor and/or compensate for excessive voltage drops from loads more distant from power injection. The maximum power transmitted by a cabling system may conform to any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class. IEC class can be 0, I, II or III IEC class. For example, a cabling system can comply with IEC's Class II with a maximum of 100 VA. The distribution voltage of the DC power may be at least about 12V, 24V, or 48V DC.

In some embodiments, a distribution junction may facilitate transmission of communication signals. A cabling system (eg, including a distribution junction as part of the cabling system) includes one or more signal filters (eg, low pass filters), eg, to reduce (eg, prevent) intermodulation distortion of the signal. can do. The signal filter(s) may be placed downstream of a target (eg device), such as a (eg 4G or 5G) antenna, such as using a higher frequency. The filter(s) may or may not be integral with the distribution junction. For example, the filter(s) may be incorporated on the downstream bus leg of the distribution junction. For example, the filter(s) may be external to (eg, and operably coupled to) the distribution junction. The network may utilize Power over Ethernet (PoE) and/or VLAN signaling, eg between a (eg micro) controller and a target device, eg to authenticate the (eg 3rd party) device and/or its power consumption. can For example, Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) protocol may be used for discovery of target(s). The distribution junction may include a system that facilitates repeater, range extender and/or signal transponder functions, such as a radio frequency (RF) power divider. The distribution junction may be passive (eg, including capacitor(s), inductor(s) and/or transformer(s)). The distribution junction may be active (eg, including a controller, amplifier, and/or preamplifier).

In some embodiments, a plurality of devices are operably coupled (eg, communicatively and/or physically coupled) to a network. The network may be the facility's local network. At times, at least one of the devices may require electrical power that exceeds the capacity of the network (or branch of the network). When such a request is satisfied, the network (or branch of the network) may be disabled. To prevent collapse of the network (or portions thereof), the network may include one or more shutters, switches, or power managers. A power manager may include a controller. The switch may include a manual or automatic switch. Shutters may include automatic or manual shutters. The switch may be an on/off switch. The on/off switch may (eg, temporarily) disconnect a device requesting an excessive amount of electrical power (eg, above a threshold) from the network, eg, to prevent collapse of the network or a portion of the network. A power manager can manage the electrical power requests of various devices to (i) prevent power draining from the network and (ii) allow a maximum number of devices to operate in their intended mode. The maximum number of devices may or may not be considered for any layer of device operation. For example, devices critical to the safe operation of the facility, the health of facility occupants, and/or critical functions of the facility's operation may be given priority over other devices.

In some embodiments, the network may transmit direct current (DC) current. The current may be of class 2 (eg, having about 100 Watts, about 2 Amp, and about 48 Volts) DC current transmission. The commercially available device(s) may be configured for transmission of DC current in the milliamp range (eg, currents up to about 0.1 mA, 1 mA, 10 mA or 100 mA).

In some embodiments, the cabling network is configured to transmit electrical power and communication signals. The network may include a television (TV) related network. A network may be configured to transmit media (eg, video, still, film or television) communications. The network may be configured to transmit targeted communications (eg, advertisements and/or alerts). A network (eg, its cables) may be configured to transmit electrical signals (eg, DC current) while providing low noise communication of communication (eg, RF) signals. For example, a cabling network may be configured for minimal distortion of an RF signal passing through, for example, a cabling system and a distribution junction joining the various cables of the cabling system. In some embodiments, problems may arise when excessive electrical (eg, DC) current causes oversaturation of inductors that are part of the distribution junction. This can be caused by, for example, attenuation (eg, lower amplitude of the signal), distortion (eg, changing the frequency of the signal), and/or crosstalk (eg, a signal at one frequency being transmitted at another frequency), which causes the inductor to It may cause a decrease in the quality of the communication signal passing through. In order to maintain a high signal-to-noise ratio of the communication signal, the end-to-end attenuation of the communication (eg, RF) signal transmitted over the trunk line should not be too high. High may be defined in terms of the saturation current of the inductor and/or in terms of the current required to reach a certain level of harmonic distortion of a communication (eg, RF) signal. The inductor should preferably remain in its linear transfer region. The inductor should preferably be in a non-saturated state. The signal attenuation by the distribution junction is strong enough for the signal to communicate with the device(s) connected to the tap line and travel through the maximum number of distribution junctions along the trunk line (e.g., and coupled to the last distribution junction along the trunk line). so that it can still communicate with the last device). In some embodiments, the power of the communication (e.g., RF) signal in the portion of the circuitry of the distribution junction dedicated to the branch is about -20 dB to about -26 dB (e.g., is attenuated at a level of about ¼% to about 1% of the communication (eg, RF) signal power. In some embodiments, the power of the communication (e.g., RF) signal in the portion of the circuitry of the distribution junction dedicated to the branch is at least about 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 21, It is attenuated to a level that facilitates the connection of 14, 16, 20, 30, 32, 50, 60 or 64 distribution junctions (eg identical distribution junctions along trunk lines). In some embodiments, the power of the communication (e.g., RF) signal in the portion of the circuitry of the distribution junction dedicated to the branch is at least about 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 21, It is attenuated to a level that facilitates the connection of 14, 16, 20, 30, 32, 50, 60 or 64 devices. In some embodiments, the power of the communication (e.g., RF) signal in the portion of the circuitry of the distribution junction dedicated to the branch is at least about 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 21, 14, 16, 20, 30, 32, 50, 60 or 64 branches are attenuated to a level that facilitates connection. (See, eg, FIG. 23). In some embodiments, the distribution junction is configured to minimize crosstalk between communication signals transmitted on trunk lines and communication signals transmitted on branch lines (eg, tap lines). For example, a distribution junction can include a directional distribution junction capable of transmitting telecommunications (eg, RF) signals and electrical (eg, DC) power, such a distribution junction is more powerful than a distribution junction that is not a directional distribution junction. It can be configured to hold a high current. The directional coupler is electrically configured to transmit a majority of the communication signal over the trunk line (eg, to the control system) while providing a sufficient (decipherable) communication signal to one or more devices connected to (eg, tapped to) the distribution junction. A power pass coupler may be provided. The distribution junction may or may not provide impedance matching. The distribution junction may have at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 branch lines (eg tabs). For example, the distribution junction may be a single drop coupler or a multidrop coupler. The type of distribution joint used may depend on the installation configuration. The distribution junction can be configured for a linear Ethernet type network. The fundamental length scale (FLS) of the distribution joint may be up to about 0.25 inches ("), 0.5", 0.75", 1", 1.25", 1.5", 1.75", or 2.0". The FLS of the distribution junction can be any value between the foregoing values (e.g., from about 0.25" to about 2.0", from about 0.25" to about 1", from about 0.75" to about 1.25", or from about 1" to about 2"). can have

In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes a switch. The switch may include an automatic reset thermal switch (eg, fuse). A switch may be incorporated into the circuitry of the distribution junction. The switch may include a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) switch. A switch can be triggered by a temperature increase above a threshold. The PTC may be included in a branching (eg, tapping) portion of the circuit unit. The switch may be a reset switch. The switch may be configured such that once electrical power is taken from the switch, the PTC returns to its original state (eg, resets the switch). The switch allows electrical (e.g. DC) power and communication (e.g. RF) signals to pass through the trunk line, e.g. It can be configured to allow movement. PTC switches include thermally activated electromechanical on-off switches, electromechanical thermal cut-off switches, self-activating thermal switches, mechanical thermal switches, bimetal temperature control switches, fluid-filled temperature control switches, digital temperature control switches, electronic thermal switches, and thermal protectors. , or any switch, fuse, or link that resets itself after a thermal event occurs. The switch may include a resistor such as a thermistor. The switch may include a positive (eg PTC) or negative (eg NTC) temperature coefficient resistor (eg a thermistor). The switch may include a semiconductor (eg, metal oxide). The switch may include a polycrystalline ceramic (eg, a doped polycrystalline ceramic such as BaTiO ₃ ). The switch may include a material whose resistance suddenly rises at a predetermined critical temperature. The switch may include a silicon resistor that is sensitive to heat. The switch may be a manual or dynamic switch. A switch may include a fuse. The switch may include a polymer (eg, polyswitch). In some embodiments, when current flows through the switch, it may generate heat, which may raise the temperature of the switch, eg, above the temperature of the surrounding environment. The switch can act as a protection circuitry element.

In some embodiments, the cabling system includes a distribution splice. The distribution junction may be configured to distribute electrical power and communications (eg, RF) power. Electrical power may be provided as direct current (eg, DC). The distribution junction can include a first port (eg, an input port) configured to receive communication and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) from upstream circuitry. The distribution junction can include a second port (eg, an output port) configured to distribute communication and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) to downstream circuitry. The distribution junction includes a third port (eg, a coupled port) configured to distribute communication and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) to a branch circuit (eg, operatively coupled to a target device). can include

19 shows an example of an example electronic schematic diagram of a distribution junction 1900 . It may be noted that other examples of distribution junctions have been discussed herein, such as with respect to FIG. 3 . In the example shown in FIG. 19 , distribution junction 1900 is configured to distribute electrical power and communications (eg, RF) power. In the example shown in FIG. 19 , electrical power may be provided as direct current (DC). Distribution junction 1900 can include a first port 1930 (eg, an input port) configured to receive communications and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) from upstream circuitry. The distribution junction 1900 includes a second port 1931 (eg, an output port) configured to distribute communications and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) to downstream circuitry. The distribution junction 1900 has a third port 1933 (eg, a coupling port) configured to distribute communication and electrical power (eg, RF power and DC power) to a branch circuit (eg, operatively coupled to a target device). ). The distribution junction 1900 comprises a first (DC) blocking capacitor 1902, a second (DC) blocking capacitor 1904, a third (DC) blocking capacitor 1906, a first series inductor 1908, a third series Inductor 1910, second series inductor 1912, matched load 1914, directional coupler 1916, input port 1941, transmitted port 1942, coupling port 1943 and an isolated port 1944.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction can include a first circuit path to distribute communications (eg, RF) power and a second circuit path to distribute electrical (eg, DC) power. For communication (eg RF) power distribution, the first circuit path may operate as follows: A first electrical power (eg DC) blocking capacitor is connected between the first port of the distribution junction and the input port of the directional coupler. can be operably coupled (eg, in series). A second electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor can be operably coupled (eg, in series) between the second port of the distribution junction and the transmit port of the directional coupler. A third electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor may be coupled between the third port of the distribution junction and the coupling port of the directional coupler. In some embodiments, a directional coupler may include one or more (eg, RF) transformers. In some embodiments, a (eg, RF) transformer may include coil windings disposed proximate to a ferrite material. Communications (eg, RF) power may be applied to a first port of the distribution junction. At least a portion (eg, all or most) of the applied communications (eg, RF) power may pass through the first electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor and reach the input port of the directional coupler. A first portion of the communication (eg, RF) power reaching the input port may be output by the transmit port, passed through a second DC blocking capacitor, and then output by the second port of the distribution junction. A second portion of the communications (eg, RF) power reaching the input port may be output by the coupling port. The second portion may be the difference between the communication (eg RF) power reaching the input port minus the communication (eg RF) power output by the transmit port. At least a portion (eg, all or most) of the communication (eg, RF) power from the coupling port may pass through the third electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor and be output by the third port of the distribution junction. have.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes an isolation port (eg, 1944). The directional coupler can be symmetrical, with an isolation port (eg, fourth port) provided. At least a portion of the communications (eg, RF) power reaching the transmit port may appear at the isolation port. In some embodiments, a directional coupler may not be used in this mode, and the isolation port may be terminated with a matched load (eg, a resistor of at least 50 ohms or 75 ohms). Such termination may be internal to the directional coupler and/or distribution junction, whereby the isolation port may not be accessible to the user, for example.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction facilitates electrical power distribution. For electrical (eg, DC) power distribution, the second circuit path can operate as follows: The electrical (eg, DC) current applied to the first port is passed through a first series inductor (eg, 1908) and a second circuit path. may be distributed to the second port through a series inductor (eg, 1912), or any combination thereof. Electrical (eg, DC) current applied to the first port may be distributed to the third port via the first series inductor (eg, 1908) and the third series inductor (eg, 1910), or any combination thereof. . A first series inductor (e.g., 1908), a second series inductor (e.g., 1912), and a third series inductor (e.g., 1910), or any combination thereof, communicates (e.g., RF) applied to the first port. It can be selected to have a high impedance over a range of frequencies corresponding to power. A frequency range of a communication signal may include one or more frequency components that exhibit amplitude as a function of frequency over one or more discrete frequencies or over one or more discrete frequency bandwidths. In some embodiments, the frequency component may include (i) the lowest frequency component, (ii) the highest frequency component, or (iii) the lowest frequency component and the highest frequency component. In some embodiments, electrical power may be provided as DC current.

In some embodiments, electrical power may be provided as alternating current (AC). For example, AC can be a periodically varying current at a frequency lower than the lowest frequency component(s) of telecommunications (eg, RF) power. AC electrical power may be a periodically varying current at a frequency higher than the highest frequency component(s) of telecommunications (eg, RF) power. The reactance of the first series inductor, the second series inductor, the third series inductor, the first DC blocking capacitor, the second DC blocking capacitor, and/or the third DC blocking capacitor is at least a portion of electrical power (e.g., AC or DC) It may be selected such that at least a portion (eg, most or a substantial portion) of the communication (eg, RF) power passes through the capacitor(s), while (eg, a majority or a substantial portion) passes through, for example, the inductor(s). In some embodiments, a signal (eg, low pass) filter replaces any of the first series inductor (eg, 1908), the second series inductor (eg, 1912), and/or the third series inductor (eg, 1910). can do. In some embodiments, a signal (eg, high pass) filter replaces the first DC blocking capacitor (eg, 1902), the second DC blocking capacitor (eg, 1904), and/or the third DC blocking capacitor (eg, 1906). can do. In some embodiments, one or more signal filters may be added to the electronic circuitry of the distribution junction. The filter(s) may include a high pass filter and/or a low pass filter.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction is housed within a housing (eg, casing). The casing may have a plurality of connectors (eg, at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more connectors). A connector may be a port. At least two of the plurality of connectors may connect the distribution junction to a bus line (eg, main line). At least one of the distribution junction connectors can connect the distribution junction to a branch line (eg, operatively coupled to at least one device). A connector may be configured to connect to a cable or wire (eg, coaxial cable). Connectors may be configured for the transmission of electrical and communication signals (eg, transmitted over wires or cables). The housing may include an insulating material (eg, polymer or resin). The housing may include an elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, or allotrope of elemental metal. The housing may include a transparent or opaque material. The housing may facilitate dissipation of heat from its interior. The housing may be configured to facilitate coupling and/or attachment thereof to a fixture (eg, wall or framing). For example, the housing may include one or more cutouts or protrusions that facilitate its coupling and/or attachment to a fixture (eg, wall or framing). The housing may be configured to protect the electronic circuitry of the joint, for example, from external influences (eg, physical damage, water damage, corrosion and/or heating). The housing may facilitate coupling of wire(s) and/or cable(s) to electronic circuitry within the distribution junction, such as via connectors (eg, ports). A port may include an input port, a transmit port, a coupling port, or any combination or plurality thereof.

20 shows various exemplary mechanical housing parts and ports associated with first distribution junction 2000 , second distribution junction 2030 , and third distribution junction 2060 . The first distribution junction 2000 includes a first port 2001 (eg, corresponding to the first port 1930 in FIG. 19 ), a second port 2002 (eg, the second port in FIG. 19 ( 1931), and a third port 2003 (eg, corresponding to the third port 1933 of FIG. 19). The first port 2001 (FIG. 20) can function as an input port, the second port 2002 can function as a transmit port, and the third port 2003 can function as a coupling port. A first portion of the communication (eg, RF) power applied to the first port 2001 (eg, the input port) may be output by the tile second port 2002 (eg, the transmit port). A second portion of the communications (eg, RF) power applied to the first port 2001 may be output by the third port 2003 (eg, the coupling port). The second portion may be a difference obtained by subtracting communication (eg, RF) power output by the second port 2002 from communication (eg, RF) power applied to the first port 2001 .

In some embodiments, the distribution junction can include at least a first port, a second port and a third port. A first port (eg, 2001) and a third port (eg, 2003) may be located (eg, side by side) at a first end of a distribution junction (eg, 2000), with a second port (eg, 2002 ) is located at the second end of the distribution junction opposite the first end. The first port, the second port and the third port are, for example, male BNC connector, female BNC jack, male N connector, female N jack, male F connector, female F jack, male SMA connector, female SMA jack, male It may be provided using any of a TNC connector, a female TNC jack, various other types of connectors, various other types of jacks, and/or various combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the first distribution junction may be housed within a metal enclosure. In some embodiments, the first distribution junction may be housed within a non-metallic structure.

In the example shown in FIG. 20 , the housing portion and ports associated with the second distribution junction 2030 are a first port 2011 (eg, corresponding to the first port 1930 in FIG. 19 ), a second port ( 2012) (eg, corresponding to the second port 1931 of FIG. 19 ), and a third port 2013 (eg, corresponding to the third port 1933 of FIG. 19 ). The first port can function as an input port, the second port can function as a transmit port, and the third port can function as a coupling port. A first port can be located at a first end of the distribution junction and a third port can be located at a second end of the distribution junction opposite the first end (eg, see 2030 in FIG. 20 ).

In the example shown in FIG. 20 , the housing portion and ports associated with third distribution junction 2060 are a first port 2021 (e.g., corresponding to first port 1930 in FIG. 19 ), a second port ( 2022) (eg, corresponding to the second port 1931 of FIG. 19 ), and a third port 2023 (eg, corresponding to the third port 1933 of FIG. 19 ). The first port can function as an input port, the second port can function as a transmit port, and the third port can function as a coupling port. A first port may be located at a first end of the distribution junction. The second port and the third port may each be located at a second end of the distribution junction opposite the first end (eg, see 2060 in FIG. 20 ).

FIG. 21 shows an exemplary mechanical configuration for housing portions and ports associated with distribution junction 2100 (eg, corresponding to third distribution junction 2060 in FIG. 20 ). Distribution junction 2100 has a first port 2106 (corresponding to first port 2021 in FIG. 20 ), a second port 2102 (corresponding to second port 2022 in FIG. 20 ), and a third port. 2103 (corresponding to the third port 2023 in Fig. 20).

In some embodiments, the distribution junction is connected to a plurality of branch lines, such as as disclosed herein. At least one electrical element of the distribution junction may be repeated for each branch. For example, in a connector to branch, an inductor (eg, series inductor) and/or a switch may be dedicated to the branch. At least one portion of the branch-only circuitry of the distribution junction circuitry may include a switch. At least one portion of the branch-only circuitry of the distribution junction circuitry may be switchless. At least one element of the electronic circuitry is common to a plurality of tap branch circuit parts, eg an inductor.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction circuitry includes a plurality of electronic components. The plurality of electronic components may include at least one wire, port, directional coupler, capacitor, coupler (eg, directional coupler), matched load, inductor (eg, series inductor), or switch. A port may include an input port, an output port, a transmit port, or an isolation port. The ports may be configured to distribute telecom power and electrical power to downstream and/or upstream circuitry. A port can be a unidirectional or bidirectional port. Capacitors may include electrical power blocking capacitors. The matched load may have an impedance value that causes maximum absorption of energy from the signal source. The distribution junction may be configured for impedance matching. The distribution junction may be configured to maximize electrical power transfer. The distribution junction can be configured to maximize the signal to noise ratio. The distribution junction may be configured to minimize signal reflections from the load.

22 shows an electronic schematic diagram of distribution junction 2200 circuitry. Distribution junction 2200 is, for example, a cascaded version of distribution junction 1900 described herein with reference to FIG. 19 . Distribution junction 2200 may be configured to distribute electrical power and communications (eg, RF) power. In the example of FIG. 22 , electrical power may be provided as direct current (DC). Distribution junction 2200 includes a first port 2230 (eg, an input port) configured to receive telecommunications (eg, RF) power and electrical (eg, DC) power from upstream circuitry. . Distribution junction 2200 includes a second port 2231 (eg, an output port) configured to distribute communication power and electrical power to downstream circuitry. Distribution junction 2200 includes a third port 2233 (eg, first coupling port) and a fourth port 2234 (eg, second coupling port). The third port 2233 and/or the fourth port 2234 can be configured to distribute communication power and electrical power to at least one branch circuit. The distribution junction 2200 includes a first directional coupler 2216 in cascade with a second directional coupler 2236 . The third port and/or the fourth port may each be configured to be operably coupled to one or more target devices. Distribution junction 2200 includes a first electrical power (e.g., DC) blocking capacitor 2202 operatively coupled in series between first port 2230 and input port 2241 of first directional coupler 2216 includes The distribution junction 2200 includes an input port 2241 of the first directional coupler 2216, a transmit port 2242 of the first directional coupler 2216, an input port 2251 of the second directional coupler 2236, and a second directional coupler 2236. Transmit port 2252 of directional coupler 2236, second electrical power (DC) blocking capacitor 2204, third port 2233 of distribution junction 2200 and coupling port 2243 of first directional coupler 2216 ) coupled between the third electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor 2206, the port 2243 of the first directional coupler 2216, the transmit port 2242, the fourth port 2234 and the second directional coupler A fourth electrical power (e.g., DC) blocking capacitor 2246 coupled between coupling port 2253 of 2236, input port 2251 of second directional coupler 2236, and second directional coupler 2236 Coupling port 2253, isolation port 2244, matching load 2214, isolation port 2254, transmit port 2252, first series inductor 2208 and second series inductor 2222, third series inductor 2210, fourth series inductor 2220, first (e.g., auto-resetting current-limit cutoff) switch 2212, second (e.g., auto-resetting current-limit cutoff) switch 2228 ), and a fourth port 2234.

In some embodiments, distribution junction (eg, 2200) can include a first circuit path for distributing communication power and a second circuit path for distributing electrical power. For telecom power distribution, the first circuit path may operate as follows: telecom power may be applied to the first port of the distribution junction. A first electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor can be operably coupled in series between the first port and the input port of the first directional coupler. All or most of the RF applied to the first port may reach the input port of the first directional coupler. A first portion of the communication (eg, RF) power reaching the input port may be output by the transmit port of the first directional coupler and reach the input port of the second directional coupler. A first portion of the communications (eg, RF) power arriving at the input port may be output by the transmit port of the second directional coupler. All or most of the communications (eg, RF) power reaching the transmit port may pass through the second electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor and be output by the second port of the distribution junction. . A third electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor (eg, 2206) is coupled to the third port (eg, 2233) of the distribution junction and the coupling port (eg, 2216) of the first directional coupler (eg, 2206). For example, 2243) may be coupled between them. A second portion of the communication (eg, RF) power arriving at the input port (eg, 2241) of the first directional coupler may be output by the coupling port of the first directional coupler. The second portion at the coupling port may be the difference between the communication (eg RF) power reaching the input port minus the communication (eg RF) power output by the transmit port (eg 2242 ). At least a portion (eg, all or most) of the second portion at the coupling port passes through a third electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor and to a third port (eg, 2233) of the distribution junction. can be reached Communication signal (eg, RF) power at the third port may be used by one or more downstream devices on the one or more branch circuits. A fourth electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor (eg, 2246) is coupled to the fourth port (eg, 2234) of the distribution junction and the coupling port (eg, 2236) of the second directional coupler (eg, 2236). For example, 2253) may be coupled between them. A second portion of the communication signal (eg, RF) power arriving at the input port (eg, 2251) of the second directional coupler may be output by the coupling port of the second directional coupler. The second portion at the coupling port may be the difference between the communication signal (eg RF) power reaching the input port minus the communication (eg RF) power output by the transmit port. At least a portion (eg, all or most) of the second portion at the coupling port may pass through the fourth electrical power (eg, DC) blocking capacitor and reach the fourth port of the distribution junction. Communication signal (eg, RF) power at the fourth port may be used by one or more downstream devices on the one or more branch circuits.

In some embodiments, a directional coupler may include one or more communication signal (eg, RF) transformers. In some embodiments, a communication signal (eg, RF) transformer may include coil windings disposed proximate to a ferrite material. The first directional coupler (eg 2216 ) can be symmetrical, with an isolation port (eg 4th port) such as 2244 being able to be provided. A portion of the communication signal (eg, RF) power that arrives at the transmit port will appear at the isolation port. In some embodiments, the first directional coupler may not be used in this mode, and the isolation port (e.g., 2244) is connected to 2214 (e.g., having a resistance of at least about 50-ohms or 75-ohms). Can be terminated with the same matching load. This termination may be internal to the first directional coupler, and/or distribution junction, whereby the isolation port may not be accessible to the user. The second directional coupler may be symmetrical, provided an isolation port such as 2254 (eg, fourth port). A portion of the communication signal (eg, RF) power that arrives at the transmit port (eg, 2252) may appear at the isolation port (eg, 2254). In some embodiments, the second directional coupler may not be used in this mode, and the isolation port may be terminated with a matching load such as a 2226 (eg, with a resistance of at least about 50-ohm or 75-ohm). have. Such termination may be internal to the second directional coupler and/or distribution junction, whereby, for example, the isolation port may not be accessible to the user.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction facilitated electrical power distribution including the first circuitry path and the second circuitry path. For electrical (eg, DC) power distribution, the second circuit path can operate as follows: The current applied to the first port is passed through a first series inductor (eg, 2208) and a second series inductor (eg, 2222). ) through which it can be distributed to the second port. The current applied to the first port (e.g., 2230) is passed through a first series inductor, a first auto-resetting current-limiting cutoff switch (e.g., 2212), and a third series inductor (e.g., 2210). It can be distributed to the third port (eg, 2233) through. The current applied to the first port is passed through the first series inductor, the second auto-resetting current-limiting cutoff switch (eg, 2228), and the fourth series inductor (eg, 2220) to the fourth port (eg, 2220). For example, it can be distributed to 2234). The first series inductor, the second series inductor, the third series inductor and the fourth series inductor may be selected to have a high impedance over a range of frequencies corresponding to the communication signal power applied to the first port. A frequency range may include one or more frequency components that exhibit amplitude as a function of frequency over one or more discrete frequencies or one or more discrete frequency bandwidths. In some embodiments, frequency components may include a lowest frequency component and/or a highest frequency component. In some embodiments, electrical power may be provided as current.

In some embodiments, electrical power may be provided as alternating current (AC). For example, AC can be a periodically changing current at a frequency lower than the lowest frequency component(s) of RF power. AC electrical power may be a current that changes periodically at a frequency higher than the highest frequency component(s) of the communication signal power. A first series inductor (eg 2208), a second series inductor (eg 2222), a third series inductor (eg 2210), a fourth series inductor (eg 2220), a first reactance of the electrical power blocking capacitor (eg 2202), the second electrical power blocking capacitor (eg 2204), the third DC blocking capacitor 2206 and the fourth electrical power blocking capacitor (eg 2246) eg, at least a (e.g. substantial) portion of the electrical (e.g. AC or DC) power is passed through such an inductor, while at least a (e.g. substantial) portion of the communication signal power passes through such capacitors. can be chosen to pass through them.

In some embodiments, the distribution junction includes at least one switch. The switch may be an auto reset switch. The switch may be a current limiting switch. A switch may be, for example, (i) due to supplying a harmful amount of current, (ii) due to requesting an excessive amount of current by the device(s), (iii) due to excessive temperature, or (iv) ( Circuitry and/or devices may be protected from malfunction due to any combination of i), (ii), and (iii). The switch may protect circuitry and/or devices from malfunction due to, for example, overheating. For example, the distribution junction may include an auto-resetting current-limiting switch. For example, a distribution junction may include a plurality of switches. For example, a distribution junction may include a switch in front of a port configured to couple one or more devices and/or branch lines to the distribution junction. A first (eg, auto-resetting current-limiting cutoff) switch (eg, 2212) is any device that would otherwise drain an excessive amount of current from a port (eg, third port 2233). may provide protection against (s). A second (e.g., auto-resetting current-limiting cutoff) switch (e.g., 2228) or any other additional switch may remove an excessive amount from the port to which it is coupled (e.g., fourth port 2234). may provide protection for any device or devices that would otherwise drain a current of The switch(s) may include (i) thermally-activated electromechanical on-off switches, (ii) electromechanical on-off switches, (iii) electromechanical thermal cutoff switches, (iv) self-actuating thermal switches. (v) mechanical thermal switches, bimetal temperature control switches, (vi) fluid-filled temperature control switches, (vii) digital temperature control switches, (viii) electronic thermal switches, (ix) thermal protectors, or (x) any switch, fuse, or link that self-resets after an event (eg, thermal or electrical) has occurred. For example, the cutoff switch(s) can automatically reset thermal switches, fuses, circuit breakers, or positive temperature coefficient (PTC) switches. A switch can be triggered to open by a temperature increase above a threshold. After the PTC switch is opened (eg, creating an electrical open circuit) and electrical power is removed from the PTC, the PTC may reset itself, eg, by returning to its original (electrically closed) state. have. In the circuit configuration of FIG. 22 , the PTC switches (eg, 2212 and/or 2228) allow electrical (eg, DC) power and communication (eg, RF) signals to Allows movement through trunk lines during opening.

In some embodiments, the network infrastructure includes a trunk line as part of a cabling network, and the trunk line includes a plurality of distribution junctions. The distribution junction can be operatively coupled to at least one controller and/or to at least one target device. The trunk may be operatively coupled (eg, connected) to a power source and/or control system (eg, via a control panel). The control system includes at least one controller. The control system may be a hierarchical control system.

23 shows an example of network infrastructure for a first cabling network 2300 , a second cabling network 2330 , and a third cabling network 2360 . The first cabling network 2300 includes a bus cable 2321 connected to the first control panel 2301 . The second cabling network 2330 includes a bus cable 2323 connected to the second control panel 2303. The third cabling network 2360 includes a bus cable 2325 connected to the third control panel 2305. Each of the first control panel 2301 , the second control panel 2303 , and the third control panel 2305 may include a network (eg, including a floor) controller. A controller can be a main controller, or a controller lower in the hierarchy of controllers. A bus cable can be connected to a plurality of distribution junctions. For example, in FIG. 23 , first bus cable 2321 is connected to eight distribution splices including distribution splice 2312 . A distribution junction 2312 is connected to one or more downstream devices over a branch cable 2315. The downstream devices include a first downstream device 2314 (eg, a local controller) and a second downstream device 2316 (eg, a target such as a sensor, emitter, antenna, tintable window, or display structure). device) is included. The first cabling network 2300 can use eight distribution junctions to provide eight taps 2318 (eg, drop lines), where each tap connects one or more downstream target devices ( eg, and configured for connection to their local controller(s). The second bus cable 2323 connects to the 12 distribution splices to provide 12 tabs 2320 . A third bus cable 2325 connects to the 16 distribution splices to provide 16 taps 2322 . In some embodiments, the maximum number of taps may be determined by the current-generating capacity of the electrical power source. In some embodiments, the maximum number of taps may be determined by the signal-to-noise ratio of the communication signal reaching the device farthest from the signal source (eg, traveling the longest trunk distance and/or cabling distance). can In some embodiments, the number of taps (eg, drops) is at least about 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36, 48, or Could be 72. In some embodiments, the communication signal (eg, RF) power on each of the taps (eg, taps 2318) is equal to the communication signal (eg, RF) power on the bus cable 2321 (eg, trunk line). , RF) power at most approximately 10 dB, 15 dB, 20 dB, 25 dB, 26 dB, or 30 dB less.

In some embodiments, a cabling network (eg, first cabling network 2300) comprises a network bus (eg, bus cable 2321, also referred to herein as a trunk) and branch cables (eg, For example, a branch cable 2315) may be included. Network buses and branch cables may distribute one or more time-varying (eg, communication) signals and/or electrical (eg, DC) power within a network infrastructure. The network bus and branch cables may include one or more signal conductors and one or more ground conductors. A network bus may be formed of a number of circuits coupled together. A first circuit of the network bus may couple together a controller (eg, in first control panel 2301) and a distribution junction (eg, distribution junction 2312). The second and subsequent circuits of the network bus may couple the pairs of distribution junctions together. A branch cable (eg, branch cable 2315) connects a branch circuit (eg, branch circuit 2314) to a (eg, respective) distribution junction (eg, distribution junction 2312). can be combined. Network buses and branch cables can distribute (eg, simultaneously) multiple time-varying signals and/or electrical power.

Network buses and branch cables can carry electrical (eg, DC) power at any desired nominal voltage. For example, network buses and branch cables may deliver DC power at a voltage of at least about 12V, 23V, or 48 Volts (V). The network bus and branch cables may conform to any International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) class, such as Class 0, I, II, or Ill. As an example, the network bus and branch cables may conform to IEC's Class II and, therefore, carry up to about 100 VA or 100 Watts. The network bus and branch cables may have sufficient wire thickness (eg, 12, 14, 16 or 18 gauge) to carry the requested current. Network buses and branch cables may include shielding (eg, foil shielding, braided shielding, or quad shielding), for example, to reduce crosstalk and/or interference. Network bus and branch cables, for example, as disclosed herein, LMR-200, LMR-240, LMR-400, RG-6, RG-8, RG-11, RG-59, RG-60, RG -174, RG-210, RG-213, 8233, or 8267 coaxial cables, or other types of cables suitable for their intended purpose. The network bus and/or branch cables may distribute any desired number (eg, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more) of distinguishable sets of time-varying signal frequencies. A set of time-varying signal frequencies may be distributed over non-overlapping frequency windows. As an example, a network bus and/or branch cables may distribute a first set of time-varying signals over one or more first frequency windows and a second set of time-varying signal frequencies over one or more second frequency windows. The frequency windows (in both the first set and the second set) may be separated in the frequency domain (eg there may be a guard band between the frequency windows). In some embodiments, some frequency windows (from the first set and/or the second set) are not separated by a guard band and/or partially overlap in the frequency domain (e.g., one frequency window ends at another). Contacts the frequency window start, e.g., 526 and 529 in FIG. 5). Frequency Window - Separating adjacent frequency windows into guard bands can either (i) reduce noise and/or interference, or (ii) reduce the cost of network components (eg cables, filters, distribution junctions, etc.) and/or complexity, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii).

In some embodiments, the network distributes time-varying signals. For example, a network may distribute multiple time-varying signal types. The first set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include network data signals (eg control related signals). The first set of time-varying signals may be digital communications or digital data. The first set of time-varying signals may include (eg, only) signals configured to be transmitted by a communication technology that transmits digital information over power lines used to convey electrical power. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals configured to be transmitted by hardware devices designed for communication and transmission of data over a building's electrical wiring (eg, Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi). The first set of time-varying signals is at least about 1 megahertz (MHz), 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 50 MHz, 100 MHz, 500 MHz, 1 gigabit per second (Gbit/s), 2 Gbit/s, 3 Gbit/s , a signal configured to be transmitted by a data transfer protocol that facilitates data transfer rates of 4 Gbit/s, or 5 Gbit/s. The data transmission protocol may operate over telephone wires, coaxial cables, power lines, and/or (eg, plastic) optical fibers. The data transfer protocol may be facilitated using a chip (eg, including a semiconductor device). The first set of time-varying signals may include power line communication signals such as G.hn, homePlug®, or HD-PLC compatible signals. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals compatible with multimedia via the MoCA protocol. The first set of time-varying signals may include signals compatible with other protocols, including Ethernet protocols such as 802.3bw, 802.3bp, 802.3ch, and/or 802.3cq. The first frequency window may extend from approximately 2 megahertz (MHz) to approximately 200 MHz (eg, as used in the G.hn protocol). As an example, the first frequency window may extend from approximately 500 MHz to approximately 600 MHz. MHz, from about 875 MHz to about 1 GHz, and/or from about 1.15 to about 1.5 GHz. The second set of time-varying signals distributed by the cabling network may include RF signals. The second time-varying signal may include a signal received by or for transmission through an antenna. The second frequency window may extend from approximately 600 MHz to approximately 1 GHz, from approximately 1.4 GHz to approximately 6 GHz, and from approximately 1.7 GHz to approximately 6 GHz. The radio frequency signals may include cellular network signals, such as fourth generation (4G) and/or fifth generation (5G) cellular network signals. In some embodiments, 4G and 5G cellular network signals include signals below approximately 6 GHz. The ranges of the time-varying signals of the first set and the time-varying signals of the second set may overlap. The ranges of the first set of time-varying signals and the second set of time-varying signals may be distinct. The separation can be made by signal domains not occupied by either the first time-varying signal or the second time-varying signal.

In some embodiments, the data plane infrastructure of FIG. 23 comprising, for example, first, second and third control panels 2301, 2303, 2305, cabling such as coaxial cables, and network adapters Used to provide electrical power to nodes on a network. In certain embodiments, electrical power (eg, provided at about 48 volts DC) is injected into a cable (eg, coaxial cable) used in the (eg, horizontal) data plane. In certain embodiments, the control panel includes a power manager. A power manager may be configured to control distribution of power to individual network adapters and/or end nodes on the network. Individual network adapters or other nodes may be powered according to a protocol implemented in the power manager. In some protocols, end nodes will not be allowed to draw power whenever they want (eg, on demand). Various criteria may be employed to determine when and/or how much electrical power to deliver to individual nodes or network adapters on a network. Such criteria may, for example, ensure that the total delivered power on the system does not exceed a certain threshold, such as a threshold set for a particular electrical standard in a jurisdiction (e.g., about 100 Watts for Class 2 networks in the United States). may include In some embodiments, one or more end nodes connected to the network are not allowed to draw electrical power (or only allowed to draw limited amounts of electrical power) until they negotiate with the electrical power manager for electrical power. An electrical power manager or other network component may form a virtual network with end nodes for purposes of electrical power negotiation and/or network authentication.

In some embodiments, the control system is configured to facilitate power control in a cabling network. Control may include electrical power distribution in time and spatial domains (eg, according to business logic and/or device requirements). The power manager (i) proposes at least one possible (e.g., optional) schedule for device operation, (ii) considers how long a given process will take to occur (from its start to its end). (iii) first party (eg, third party) devices in terms of their mode of operation and/or timing - eg, considering the mode of operation (eg, continuous or intermittent operation) - (iv) consider and/or intend various intermittent operating schemes, (v) consider when devices are required, (vi) interlace and/or align the operating requirements and requests of devices and or matching, (vii) disabling (eg, shutting down) a given device that draws power above a threshold, for example, (viii) delaying operation of a given device, or (ix) may be configured to perform operations comprising any combination of (i) to (viii). A device may have the option to request a changed (eg, higher or lower) power budget. A power manager (eg, power controller) can be configured to suggest a priority list of devices for power use. The power manager may utilize a pre-made priority list of devices, for example in terms of their power usage. The power manager may know where (eg, to which trunk line) to connect devices in the facility and/or network. A trunk can connect up to 8, 12, 16, or 32 devices, for example in series. A power manager may facilitate automatic electrical power load distribution. The power manager can identify which controllers of the control system are connected to which channels and/or to which device(s). A device can be a tintable window, a media display (eg, a transparent display), a device ensemble (eg, a sensor set), or a (eg, cellular) transceiver. For example, the power manager can consider which device is undergoing which action (eg, which transition, given IGU type and dimensions). Power managers can prioritize power budgets based on business logic. Prioritization can include product management. Prioritization is based on (I) reasonably inferred logic, (II) spaces in the facility (eg, spaces of a certain kind and/or with certain characteristics), (III) occupancy of the space in the facility, (IV) zone (eg, occupancy zone), (V) device prioritization (eg, based on device type, device capability, and/or device placement within a facility), (VI) external conditions, (VII) requirements (VII) the amount of time the power is required, (VIII) the source identification of the voltage draw, or (IX) any combination of (I) through (VIII). Prioritization can utilize logic that includes higher level abstract business logic. Prioritization may utilize the facility's occupancy scheme. Prioritization may facilitate a (eg, structural and/or architectural) model of a facility. For example, a model may include a Building Information Modeling (BIM) (eg, Revit file) of a facility or any enclosure within it. dimensional modeling (eg, floor plan) and/or three-dimensional modeling (eg, 3D model rendering). The logic may or may not include finite element analysis. Logic may include or be utilized in simulation. The logic may include generalization logic. The power manager may utilize artificial intelligence (eg ML). For devices such as tintable windows, for example, the ML is the tint transition type, the tint transition time to complete, the dimensions of the tintable window, and/or the size of the tintable window (e.g., of an electrochromic structure). Material properties can be taken into account. For devices such as HVAC, for example, the ML is the requested temperature, the temperature gradient to the requested temperature, the type of enclosure to regulate the temperature, the dimensions of the enclosure, the material properties of fixtures in the enclosure, the enclosure of the atmosphere, and/or the velocity of gases (eg, air) propelled by the HVAC into and/or out of an enclosure (eg, a room or other facility space). The power manager can identify where the electrical power request is coming from, eg from which device(s). The power manager can prioritize the supply of power. The power manager can identify the device(s) by their network identification code.

In some embodiments, the power manager utilizes modeling. Modeling is a controller that drives certain operations of the device (e.g., transitioning the tint of tintable windows, playing a movie on a display structure, adjusting the temperature of a room, broadcasting a message). It can be based at least in part on the behavior of known forms that can be expected from The power manager may learn and/or utilize the known (eg, historical) power usage of the device(s). The historical power usage may be of a device within a facility, similar devices within a facility, or similar devices within other facilities. Modeling can include a learning stage. Modeling may utilize a training set (eg, based on real-time data collection and/or historical data collection). A training set may include synthesized data. The learning set may utilize historical information from these or other places (eg, with a similar network and/or similar devices coupled to a cabling network). A power manager may include hardware and/or software interfaces. For example, the power manager may have a graphical user interface (GUI). The program manager may include an application programming interface (API). The power manager may receive input from the user, for example via a GUI of an API. For example, the power manager may request and/or accept input regarding the user's preferences in terms of device usage. For example, a preference for tint level of tintable windows in a user's room, a preference and/or selection for the start time of a particular media projected on a media display, a preference and/or selection for timing of a message broadcast, and/or at least one environmental preference in selection of rooms, or any combination thereof. Environmental preferences may include lighting, humidity, temperature, gas velocity, gas pressure, volatile organic compound (VOC) level, particulate level, sound level, or any combination thereof. Illumination may include light intensity, direction, light source arrangement, light source selection, and/or color. A color may include a color type, color wavelength, or color gradient. The power manager may or may not override requests by the user. For example, when a request by a user causes a drain of electrical power, the power manager may not satisfy the user's request. The GUI may communicate the denial of the request to the user (eg, by visually projecting or making a sound). The power manager's API may be installed in the user's processor, for example a fixed or mobile processor (such as a tablet, mobile phone or laptop).

A model may include a building information modeling (BIM) software (eg Autodesk Revit) product (eg file). BIM products may allow users to design buildings with parametric modeling and drafting elements. In some embodiments, BIM is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) paradigm that allows intelligent, 3D and/or parametric object based design. A BIM model can contain information about the entire life cycle of a building, from conception of the structure to decommissioning. This functionality may be provided by the underlying relational database architecture of the BIM model, which may be referred to as a parameter change engine. BIM products may use .RVT files for storing BIM models. Parametric objects -- whether 3D building objects (eg, windows or doors) or 2D drafting objects -- can be referred to as a family, stored in .RFA files, and in the RVT database. can be imported. There are many sources of pre-fetched RFA libraries.

BIM (eg Revit) may allow users to create parametric components in a graphical "family editor". The model is such that changes to any element are automatically propagated to keep the model consistent; Relationships between views and annotations can be captured. For example, moving a wall updates neighboring walls, floors, and roofs, corrects the placement and values of dimensions and notes, adjusts floor areas reported in schedules, and adjusts section views. redraw, etc. BIM may facilitate continuous linking, updates, and/or adjustments between a facility's model and (eg, any) documentation, eg, for the simplicity of real-time updates and/or on-the-fly revisions of the model. have. The concept of bi-directional associativity between components, views and annotations can be a hallmark of BIM.

A BIM model can use a single file database that can be shared among multiple users. Planes, sections, heights, legends, and schedules can be interconnected. BIM can provide (eg, full) bidirectional associativity. Thus, when a user changes one view, the other views can be automatically updated. Similarly, BIM files can be automatically updated in response to input received from sensors. BIM drawings and/or schedules can be fully coordinated in terms of the building objects shown in the drawings. A basic facility (eg, building) uses 3D objects to create fixtures (eg, walls, floors, roofs, structures, windows, and/or doors) and other objects as needed. and can be withdrawn. A BIM model (eg, a BIM virtual model, or BIM virtual file) may include information about structures and/or materials associated with a facility. Alternatively, if a component of a design is visible from more than one view, it may be created using a 3D object Users may create their own 3D and 2D objects for modeling and drafting purposes. Small-scale views of building components can be imported using a combination of 3D and 2D drafting objects, or drafting operations performed in other computer-aided design (CAD) platforms, e.g. via DWG, DXF, DGN, SAT or SKP. can be created by

In some embodiments, when a project database is shared using BIM, a central file may be created that stores a master copy of the project database on a file server. Users can work on copies of central files (known as local files) stored on their workstations. Users can save to the central file to update the central file with their changes, and to receive changes from other users. The BIM model checks against the central file each time a user starts working on an object in the database, so it knows if another user is editing the object. This procedure can prevent two people from making the same change at the same time and causing a conflict. Multiple disciplines working together on the same project can build their own project databases and link to databases from other consultants for verification. BIM can perform interference checking, which can detect whether different components of a building are occupying the same physical space.

In some embodiments, when structural changes occur in a facility (including any part thereof), the BIM model may require manual updates to at least one document associated with the facility to document the change and remain updated. have. The facility's control system (eg, using the sensor(s)) may (eg, automatically) feed structural updates to the BIM model to the logic (eg, to the AI engine, and/or to the simulation). can Structural updates supplied by the control system can be done in real time (eg, when changes occur) or at times when the facility is not occupied (eg, at night, during weekends, or during holidays). Updates can be scheduled (eg, prescheduled). The update may occur in the closest time frame to the structural change made (eg, the first time the facility is idle after the structural change is made). The update may be at predetermined (eg, prescheduled) intervals and/or may be sensed by sensors operably coupled to the network.

In some embodiments, one or more models (as disclosed herein) are used by logic (eg, by an AI engine). The model may include non-stationary materials, such as water occupying pipes, heat capacity of materials, optical absorptivity/reflection, heat signature, acoustic properties, and/or outgassing/VoC versus temperature of materials. The model may include openings, time of day, sun angle, and/or penetration depth. The model can be applied to scenarios where room assignments and/or walls are not known. The model can be applied to scenarios where dry walls, hallways, open areas, reception areas, stairs, and/or closed areas are known. The model may include building elements such as fixtures and non-fixtures. Building elements are bulkheads, walls, floors, roofs, structures, windows, doors, ceilings, cabinets, furniture, desks, cubicles, tables, chairs, ventilation ducts, electrical ducts, lighting It may include plumbing for fixtures, water lines, roof vents, and/or utilities. The model may associate the fixture with one or more physical properties, such as material for the fixture, heat capacity for the fixture, acoustic properties for the fixture, and/or any of a number of other physical properties.

The model may include information about energy related characteristics of commercial and/or residential buildings. For example, as noted previously, the model may include information from the Building Performance Database (BPD) maintained by the US Department of Energy. In some embodiments, BPD is collected from buildings by competent authorities (eg, federal, state, and local governments), utilities, energy efficiency programs, building owners, and/or private companies. Combine, remove and/or anonymize data. Various physical and operating characteristics for multiple building types can be stored in the BPD, for example to document trends in energy performance. BPD may allow users to create and/or store custom data sets based on specific variables including, for example, building types, locations, sizes, age, equipment, and/or operating characteristics. have. BPD may allow users to compare buildings using statistical or actuarial methods. The BPD may include a graphical web interface and/or API (eg, of a power manager and/or web API), which may allow applications and/or services to dynamically query the BPD.

In some embodiments, various target devices (eg, IGUs) are grouped into zones of target devices (eg, EC windows). At least one zone may include a subset of target devices (eg, media displays, sensors, emitters, and/or IGUs). For example, at least one (eg, each) zone of the target devices may be controlled by one or more controllers of the control system. At least one (eg, each) zone is controlled by a single floor controller (eg, network controller) and two or more local controllers (eg, window controllers) controlled by the single floor controller. It can be. For example, a zone can represent a logical grouping of target devices. The at least one (eg, each) zone may correspond to a set of target devices within a particular location or area of a facility, which target devices are driven together based at least in part on their location. For example, a building may have 4 faces or sides (North, South, East, and West) and 10 floors. In such an example, each zone may correspond to a set of target devices (eg, electrochromic windows, antenna, lights, or vents) on a particular floor and on a particular one of the four sides. At least one (eg, each) zone may correspond to a set of target devices that share one or more physical characteristics (eg, device parameters such as size, material, type, or age of use). In some embodiments, a zone of targeted devices is grouped based at least in part on one or more non-physical characteristics of the target devices, such as placement within a facility, intended purpose, or security designation or business hierarchy. For example, IGUs bordering managers' offices may be grouped in one or more zones, while IGUs bordering non-managers' offices may be grouped in one or more different zones. Zones are the occupancy of the facility (eg, occupancy area), the function of the various enclosures of the facility (eg, offices, conference rooms, cafeterias, entrance halls, corridors, laboratories, etc.), the non-fixtures within the enclosure (eg, eg, mobile furniture) arrangement, and/or location of fixtures (eg, walls) within the facility.

In some embodiments, at least one (eg, each) floor controller may resolve all target devices within at least one (eg, each) zone of the one or more respective zones. For example, a master controller may issue a primary tint command to a floor controller controlling a target area. The primary tint command may include a (eg, abstract) identification of the target zone (hereinafter also referred to as “Zone ID”). For example, the zone ID may be a first protocol ID. The floor controller may receive a primary tint command that includes a tint value and zone ID. The floor controller may map the zone ID to second protocol IDs associated with local controllers (eg, window controllers) within the zone. In some embodiments, zone ID may be a higher level abstraction than first protocol IDs. The floor controller may first map zone IDs to one or more first protocol IDs, and then map the first protocol IDs to second protocol IDs.

In some embodiments, an electrical power management protocol may employ a defined set of communications between an electrical power manager and one or more network adapters or nodes. For example, requests for electrical power may be issued by network adapters, and requests for information may be issued by an electrical power manager. Data including timing and/or conditions of electrical power delivery may be issued from an electrical power manager before electrical power is actually delivered. In certain embodiments, such communication is provided using a (eg, G.hn) communication protocol. PoE can be implemented with its own protocol. In certain embodiments, the Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) is employed to provide relevant communications for electrical power management, whether or not using the PoE protocol.

24 shows an example of a flow chart depicting an exemplary method 2400 of using a distribution junction. At block 2401, a distribution junction may be provided. A distribution junction may couple a trunk line to one or more branch lines. The trunk line may include a first cable that transmits electrical power and/or communications. The branch line(s) may include a second cable that transmits electrical power and/or communications. Transmission of electrical power and/or communication may be to one or more devices. One or more devices may be coupled to the branch line(s). Distribution junctions may be disposed along the trunk lines. Electrical power may be DC power. At optional block 2402, electrical (eg, DC) power request(s) may be received from the device(s). The electrical power requirement(s) of the devices may be received. At optional block 2403, the current sent to the device(s) may be controlled. Control may be based at least in part on electrical power request(s) and/or power requirement(s) of the device(s). At block 2404, current and communication may be transmitted and directed along the trunk cable and/or to the device(s) through the distribution junction.

25 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method 2500 of managing a device. The device may be a third party device, an internal device of the facility, and/or a network provider. In method 2500, the order of operations is not limited. Operations may be performed in any order, as applicable. At optional block 2501, a time schedule for operation of the device may be formulated. At block 2503, the duration for a given process to run on the device (e.g., how long it will take for a tintable window to reach a requested tint level, or the environment of a room to a requested temperature level). How long it will take to cool down) can be made. A determination may be made as to when execution of the action on the device is requested and/or requested (block 2505). At block 2505, a determination may be made about an operating mode and/or operating scheme for execution of an operation on and/or by the device. For example, the mode of operation may specify continuous operation or intermittent operation (regularly or irregularly). The determination of block 2505 may be based at least in part on the operation of at least one other device operably coupled to the network. At optional block 2507, two or more modes of operation may be interlaced in time (eg, modes of operation of two or more devices may be interlaced in time). Requests may be interlaced with respect to at least one other device coupled to the network to which the device is coupled. For example, a first device can receive intermittent power at a certain frequency, a second device can receive intermittent power at that frequency, and the two power frequencies are when the first device is not receiving power. , the second device can be conditioned to receive power. The given action may be executed on the device at block 2509 .

26 shows an example of a flowchart illustrating an example method 2600 of prioritizing power budgets for devices. At block 2601, a procedure may be performed to identify one or more physical entities used to operatively couple a control system to a channel of a plurality of channels and/or a device of a plurality of devices. For example, the control system can be operatively coupled to the device via trunk lines, distribution junctions, and branch cables. At block 2603, the power budget may be prioritized for devices and/or channels according to logic. Logic is (I) business logic, (II) space specification, (Ill) device specification, (IV) device power request, (V) schedule, (VI) external conditions, (VII) device power requirements (e.g. , power amount and/or timing for power), (VIII) power request, and/or (VIII) by device (eg, using machine learning (ML), scheduling, and/or historical data). It may include predicted power usage. Space designation may include prioritization of spaces, certain types of spaces, spaces with characteristics, occupancy levels, and/or zones of occupancy. Logic may include product management and/or one or more rational inferences. Historical data may be fetched from a control system servicing the device (eg, from a local controller). At block 2611, the power budget prioritization determined at block 2603 may be used to create a power distribution scheme or plan for devices and/or channels. Then, at block 2613, the control system can be used to distribute or direct the distribution of power to the devices and/or channels.

27 shows an example of a flowchart depicting an example method 2700 of managing power distribution to a device. A prioritized list of devices for power usage may be defined at block 2701 . For example, electrical power usage may include power usage, such as consumption of electrical (eg, DC) power. Power usage may include communication signal (eg, RF) power usage. The priority list may be defined at least in part using business logic (eg, as described with reference to block 2603 of FIG. 26 ). At block 2703, power distribution can be monitored for devices coupled to the network. This electrical power distribution may include power and/or communication signal power. Upon detecting that the device is discharging power (eg, DC power and/or RF power) above a threshold, the method 2700 proceeds to block 2715, where the device is discharging electrical power and/or RF power. Disconnected from the communication signal power (eg each - depending on the type of power drain). Otherwise, the method 2700 proceeds from block 2703 to block 2705, where a power budget request is received from the device(s). In some embodiments, the power budget request may be for a modified power budget. At block 2707, the power budget request may be considered along with any other power budget request(s). The distribution of power (eg, DC power and/or RF power) within the network may be considered along with an estimate of the distribution of power within the network at future times. The historical power usage of the device(s) in the network can be considered along with any power usage trends of the device(s). Power usage trends can be compiled using artificial intelligence, for example using a machine learning (ML) module. Then, at block 2709, results regarding the power distribution of the requesting device(s) are generated. Based at least in part on the results, the method proceeds to either block 2711 or block 2713 . At block 2711, power (eg, DC power and/or RF power) may be supplied intermittently to the requesting device(s). Intermittent power may be supplied at regular or irregular intervals. At block 2713, continuous power supply to the requesting device(s) may be delayed.

28 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method of managing devices in the context of a tintable window. At block 2801, devices (eg, tintable windows, media display, sensors, lighting, alarm system, or HVAC system) may be provided. Devices can be coupled to control systems and networks. At block 2803, one or more models may be created using known operational forms of devices (eg, transition of tintable windows, temperature adjustment of a room, display of media, sounding an alarm, or sensing). Modeling may include artificial intelligence (Al), such as ML. At block 2805, information is collected from (i) historical measurements, (ii) synthesized measurements, and/or (iii) the hardware and/or firmware of the control system (eg, local controller), to the Al engine. Creates a training set utilized by The training set is used in the model(s) to predict the device's power usage at future times (block 2807). At block 2809, power is delivered to the device based at least in part on a prediction of power usage by the device at a future time.

In some embodiments, devices are installed (eg, manually) by an installer. For example, tintable (eg, optically switchable) windows may be installed by an installer (eg, a glazing contractor). An installer (eg, a glazing contractor or suitably skilled technician) may, for example, install the windows at the same time or at a different (eg, earlier or later) time the sensors, emitters, or security You can install other types of branch targets (eg devices), such as devices. Electrical power supply connections, such as AC power supply connections, may be installed by an installer (eg, an electrician). The installer may be an electrician licensed to work with low voltage electrical systems, for example in the jurisdiction where the building is located. The installer may be an electrician licensed to work with high voltage electrical systems, for example in the jurisdiction where the building is located. Wiring (eg coaxial cabling) may be installed by such an installer, or it may be installed by an electrician or other person permitted to work with lower voltages or powers in the jurisdiction in which the building is constructed (eg It can be installed by an installer who is a low voltage electrician). The term "licensed electrician" is used herein to refer to an electrician licensed to perform both low voltage and high voltage and/or power (i.e. Class 1 and Class 2) installations in a given jurisdiction.

For example, in one embodiment, an installer (e.g., a glazing operator) can ensure that optically switchable window connectors (e.g., pigtail cables in each window) are routed from the outer window wall to a plenum space. optically switchable windows in the skin of a building, in such a way that they extend into space). The installer installs internal vertical mullion channels between adjacent optically switchable windows and places wiring (eg RG-6 coaxial cable) drop lines through the mullion channels to remove excess wiring (eg. For example, RG-6 coaxial cable) can be coiled. An installer may install target(s) (eg, sensor devices) on vertical mullions connected to wire drop lines. Alternatively, such targets may be connected to the wire drop lines at a different (eg, later) time. An installer (e.g., a licensed electrician) may, for example, in a plenum space or open space around the perimeter of a building to form a primary ring and, optionally, inside the building to form a secondary ring. Distributed control panels can be installed. An installer can connect the distributed control panels to a high voltage AC power supply and install wiring (eg, fiber optic or other cabling) that forms a primary (and secondary, if present) ring. Installers (e.g., low voltage electricians) target(s) (e.g., optically switch possible windows and/or sensor devices). The installer (eg, low voltage electrician) connects the target(s) (eg, optically switchable windows) to the branch lines by means of window controls and wiring (eg, RG-6) drop lines. can

In some embodiments, at least a portion (eg, all) of the electrical installation work is performed by a licensed electrician. However, the design of the network topologies shown, for example, in FIGS. 16A, 17A, 17B, and 18, once the primary ring of distributed control panels has been installed and/or connected up to the power supply, is, for example, a building frame. During or after construction of the works and/or skins (eg, shortly thereafter), an unlicensed electrician or other type of worker may install many of the networks. Immediately after may be before occupants occupy the building and/or before the building is released for occupancy. Thus, the overall cost of deploying a network of targets (eg, devices) is reduced. When excess wire (eg coaxial cable) drop lines are connected to wire (eg coaxial cable) branch lines during initial installation, subsequent addition of branch targets (eg devices) to the network is linear. may be rendered simpler and more cost-effective than a network (eg, no branch lines, drop lines, and/or taps).

In some embodiments, a cabling network may be coupled to the antenna. The antenna can be coupled to the trunk extending from the control panel before any distribution junctions (T junctions) or other devices (which add loss) are coupled to the trunk. Amplifiers and/or preamplifiers may be included in a control panel (eg of a head controller such as a network controller). Passive antennas may be coupled (eg, everywhere) on a cabling network, eg, for DAS-like operation. Signal attenuation can be reduced at the antenna level and/or at the distribution junction level. Reduction in signal attenuation at the distribution junction level increases the probability that a signal will be distinct (e.g., distinguishable over noise) after long distances from the source antenna and/or passage through (e.g., many) junctions. can make it Reduction of signal attenuation at the antenna level (eg, using an active antenna) may add cost, power and/or heat for local amplification and/or filtering.

In some embodiments, the cabling system may be coupled to an external antenna. The external antenna may be an active antenna. An active antenna may include a signal amplifier and a preamplifier. An active antenna is provided, for example by connecting an external antenna directly to the control panel and/or placing the antennas upstream of other devices, for example before the distribution junction, on a first or one of the distribution junctions along the trunk line. This can minimize signal coupling (eg by distribution joints) from the antenna to the control panel. Amplifiers and/or preamplifiers may utilize RF power. An active antenna can increase the probability that a signal traveling in a cabling system will be strong enough to be decoded (eg, above a noise level) and weak enough to comply with jurisdictional safety regulations and cabling specifications. Active antennas can add noise and/or signal distortion. An active antenna may complicate link budget and/or tuning to avoid interference, oscillations, or both interference and oscillations. In some embodiments, the (eg, external) antenna is a passive antenna.

In some embodiments, the cabling system may be coupled to an internal antenna. internal antennas. The internal antenna may be an active antenna (eg, with an RF power amplifier and/or preamplifier) or a passive antenna. The internal antenna can be a dome antenna, an antenna coupled or inscribed on a window, within a window frame (eg mullion). The bus bars of the IGU can serve as an antenna. A 5G communication signal may have a low angle of divergence, requiring multiple antennas to provide (eg, cellular) receive coverage (eg, may require a sight line to a mobile phone). Internal antennas may include, for example, dome antennas placed on corners of the enclosure. The internal antenna may be part of a Distributed Antenna System (DAS). The antenna may include a MIMO antenna. Internal antennas may require (eg, dedicated) distribution junctions (eg, distribution junctions with about 50-ohm resistance). The antenna may include a transformer that provides impedance matching to the cabling system. Signal communications (eg, 5G signals below about 6 GHz) may utilize 2x2, or 4x4 MIMO antennas. Signal communications (eg 5G millimeter wave) may utilize directional antenna arrays (eg 2x2, 4x4 multi-/massivel-MIMO with at least 16, 32, 64 or 128 elements) have.

The protocol(s) used to transfer data to branch devices may be selected based at least in part on the required data transfer rates. For example, branching devices such as weather sensors may require high-speed data communication. Accordingly, coaxial cable network branches including branch devices requiring high-speed data communication may include high-speed devices, such as those configured to implement the G.hn protocol.

To implement MoCA power line communication in a coaxial cable network branch, a MoCA headend device is installed in the headend unit of the corresponding distributed control panel, and a MoCA transceiver is installed on each branch device to receive and/or transmit MoCA communication ( and/or in the corresponding device controller). The use of the MoCA 2.5 standard enables data transmission at rates of up to about 2.5 Gbit/sec across different frequency bands (e.g., the MoCA AA band corresponds to frequencies from about 400 MHz to about 900 MHz, whereas the MoCA The AC band corresponds to frequencies from about 110 MHz to about 1660 MHz).

In some embodiments, an end device such as an electrochromic window may require (eg, only) low-speed data communication. Thus, coaxial cable network branches that include branch devices requiring lower low-speed data communication may include low-speed devices such as G.hn devices. To implement G.hn power line communication in the coaxial cable network branch, a G.hn headend device may be provided in a corresponding headend unit of the distributed control panel. To implement G.hn powerline communications in a branch of a coaxial cable network, a G.hn transceiver is assigned to each branch device (and/or corresponding device controller, for example, to receive and/or transmit G.hn communications). to) can be installed. Although the G.hn standard may allow data transmission at rates of up to about 2 Gbit/s, transmission rates may in practice be (eg only) up to about 200 Mbit/s. G.hn devices can transmit data over a frequency band of about 10 MHz to about 70 MHz.

In some embodiments, across different frequency bands (eg, also referred to herein as “frequency windows” and “signal frequency set”) and/or across the same coaxial cable branch at different speeds. Transmission of data may occur, for example, by simultaneously communicating using multiple protocols (e.g., by transmitting a first set of signal frequencies conforming to the MoCA protocol and transmitting a second set of signal frequencies conforming to the G.hn protocol). ) can be achieved. Appropriately tuned filters (e.g., inductor and capacitor filters (LC filters)) are used to selectively inject signals in desired telecom bands from coaxial cable shunts into appropriate drop lines, or for PLC signals. It can be used to disrupt (eg block) transmissions, avoid interference, eg when different branching devices are controlled on a single branch line.

Power inserts may be used to retain power, supplement power, and/or increase density. At a given divergence, there may be inserts directly into the control panel. For example, when there are a plurality (eg, 6) devices on a branch, the first part of (eg, 3) devices closest to the control panel is (eg, not a power insert) ) can receive power directly from the main power line. For example, a device closest to the control panel may receive power directly from the control panel, and a device second closest to the control panel may receive power downstream from the tap providing power to the first device, and control The device third closest to the panel receives power downstream from the tap that provides power to the second device. In order to provide more direct power to the fourth through sixth devices, the power distribution system is directed to third and fourth devices on the branch line (e.g. to supplement appropriate power supply, such as to targets). A power insert may be included between the taps. In this example, the fourth device may receive some or all of its power through the power insert.

In some embodiments, elements of the vertical data plane network are installed in the skin of the building during or after (eg, immediately after) initial construction of the building framework and/or skin. For example, in some embodiments, one or more elements of wiring (eg, a first wiring ring of network branches and/or drop lines (eg, fiber optic or other cabling of the ring), a second wiring (eg, eg coaxial or other cabling), distributed control panels and/or branching devices) are installed in the skin of the building.

In some embodiments, branching targets are devices such as tinttable (eg, optically switchable) windows, sensors, or security devices that can be installed in the skin of a building. For example, optically switchable windows may form part of an exterior wall surrounding a building. Sensors, emitters, and/or security devices may be installed on exterior walls, for example in frames surrounding windows (eg vertical mullions or channels and/or horizontal chassis or transoms). can Sensors, emitters, and/or security devices may be installed inside a building. Windows (eg, tintable windows) may be installed inside (eg, as at least part of an interior wall) of a building.

)를 형성한다. 동축 케이블링(예를 들어, RG-6 동축 케이블링) 드롭 라인들은 (예를 들어, 각각의) 광학적으로 스위칭가능한 윈도우 중 적어도 하나에 연결될 수 있다. 동축 케이블링 드롭 라인들은 광학적으로 스위칭가능한 윈도우들로부터 멀리 외벽 밖으로, 건물 프레임워크의 구조적 플로어들 또는 천장들과 대응하는 융기된 플로어들 또는 강하된 천장들(예를 들어, 건물의 플레넘 공간) 사이에 제공된 공간 내로 연장될 수 있다. 분산 제어 패널들은 또한, 플레넘 공간에, 또는 건물의 주연부 주위에서 서로 이격되어 일차 링의 노드들을 형성하는 건물의 다른 개방 공간들에 설치될 수 있다. 예를 들어, 각각의 분산 제어 패널은 광학적으로 스위칭가능한 윈도우들과 같은 복수(예를 들어, 2개 이상, 3개 이상, 4개 이상, 5개 이상 또는 6개 이상)의 타깃들에 의해 일차 링 주위의 각각의 인접한 분산 제어 패널로부터 분리될 수 있다. 분산 제어 패널들은 건물 프레임워크에, 예를 들어 건물 프레임워크의 구조적 지지 기둥들에 고정적으로 부착(예를 들어, 볼트접합)될 수 있다. AC 전력 공급 라인들은 분산 제어 패널들에 설치되고/되거나 연결될 수 있다. 배선(예를 들어, 광섬유 또는 다른 케이블링)은 건물의 주연부 주위의 플레넘 공간에 설치되어, 예를 들어, 분산 제어 패널들을 연결하여 일차 링을 형성할 수 있다. 배선(예를 들어, RG-11 동축 케이블링과 같은 동축 케이블링) 분기선들은 또한, 건물의 주연부 주위의 플레넘 공간에 설치될 수 있다. 배선(예를 들어, 동축 케이블) 드롭 라인들은, 예를 들어 하나 이상의 분배 접합부들(예를 들어, 유도성 탭들)에 의해, 배선(예를 들어, 동축 케이블) 분기선들에 연결될 수 있다. 배선(예를 들어, 동축 케이블) 분기선들은 대응하는 분산 제어 패널들에 연결될 수 있다.In one embodiment, the optically switchable windows are installed in the skin of the building, whereby an exterior wall façade enclosing the framework of the building (

) to form Coaxial cabling (eg, RG-6 coaxial cabling) drop lines may be connected to at least one of the (eg, respective) optically switchable windows. Coaxial cabling drop lines are routed out of the exterior wall, away from the optically switchable windows, to the structural floors or ceilings of the building framework and corresponding raised floors or lowered ceilings (e.g., a building's plenum space). It can extend into the space provided between them. Distributed control panels may also be installed in the plenum space or other open spaces of the building spaced apart around the perimeter of the building to form the nodes of the primary ring. For example, each distributed control panel is primarily driven by a plurality (eg, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, or six or more) targets such as optically switchable windows. It can be separated from each adjacent distributed control panel around the ring. Distributed control panels may be fixedly attached (eg bolted) to the building framework, for example to structural support columns of the building framework. AC power supply lines may be installed and/or connected to distributed control panels. Wiring (eg, fiber optic or other cabling) can be installed in the plenum space around the perimeter of the building, connecting distributed control panels to form a primary ring, for example. Wiring (eg, coaxial cabling, such as RG-11 coaxial cabling) branches may also be installed in the plenum space around the perimeter of the building. The wire (eg coaxial cable) drop lines may be connected to the wire (eg coaxial cable) branch lines, for example by one or more distribution joints (eg inductive taps). Wiring (eg, coaxial cable) branch lines may be connected to corresponding distributed control panels.

In some embodiments, secondary network rings inside a building are installed. The secondary network rings may be installed concurrently with the installation of the primary ring around the perimeter of the building, or at a different (eg later) time, for example when the interior walls of the building are being constructed.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the present invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. Although the present invention has been illustrated with reference to the foregoing specification, the description and illustration of the embodiments of this application should not be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, modifications and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Moreover, it should be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations, or relative proportions described herein which depend on various conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is contemplated to cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations or equivalents. The following claims define the scope of the invention and it is intended that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be included therein.

Claims (50)

A system for transmission of power and communications in a facility, comprising:
(a) having a cable configured to transmit an electric current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device of the facility, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and operably to the at least one device; a cabling system configured to couple;
(b) a first antenna configured to receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and to transmit a signal of the second communication type external to the facility, the first antenna operably coupled to the cabling system;
(c) configured to (i) receive a signal of the second communication type within the facility, and (ii) transmit a signal of the second communication type into the facility, and be operably connected to the cabling system. a coupled second antenna; and
(d) at least one controller operably coupled to the cabling system and configured to control the at least one device using the first communication type. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first communication type and the second communication type do not have overlapping signal frequencies. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the current is direct current. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cabling system includes a distribution junction. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the distribution junction distributes the current non-uniformly. 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the distribution junction distributes the first type of communication and/or the second type of communication non-uniformly. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple to a building management system. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, said at least one controller comprising:
(a) having a cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and operably coupled to the at least one device; To couple to the configured cabling system;
(b) coupled to a first antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type external to the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type external to the facility;
(c) coupled to a second antenna configured to receive signals of the second communication type within the facility and to transmit signals of the second communication type into the facility;
(d) direct the second communication type from the first antenna to the second antenna;
direct the second communication type from the second antenna to the first antenna;
operably couple to the at least one device of the facility; and
(e) use or direct use of the first communication type to control the at least one device of the facility. A non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to execute an operation. It has a command to do, and the operation is,
(a) transmitting or directing transmission of, over a cable, a current, a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, the cable comprising the being part of a cabling system to which at least one device is operably coupled;
(b) directing a signal of the second communication type received by a first antenna to a second antenna and directing a signal of the second communication type received by the second antenna to the first antenna - wherein the A first antenna is configured to receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and to transmit a signal of the second communication type external to the facility, wherein the second antenna is configured to transmit a signal of the second communication type internal to the facility. configured to receive signals of and transmit signals of the second communication type into the facility; and
(c) controlling or instructing control of the at least one device by using the first type of communication. A method for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
(a) transmitting, over the cable, (i) an electric current, (ii) a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and (iii) a second type of communication configured for media communication - wherein the the cable is part of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled;
(b) directing a signal of the second communication type received by a first antenna to a second antenna and directing a signal of the second communication type received by the second antenna to the first antenna - wherein the A first antenna is configured to receive a signal of the second communication type external to the facility and to transmit a signal of the second communication type external to the facility, wherein the second antenna is configured to transmit a signal of the second communication type internal to the facility. configured to receive signals of and transmit signals of the second communication type into the facility; and
(c) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type. 11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising providing and/or using the first communication type and the second communication type such that the first communication type has no overlapping signal frequencies with the second communication type. Way. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising providing and/or using the current as direct current. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the cabling system is operably coupled to a building management system. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, said at least one controller comprising:
(i) configured to operably couple to a cabling system, the cabling system comprising:
a trunk line cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit the current, and (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch line configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction including a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, wherein the junction comprises:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(g) operably couple to said at least one device; and
(h) use or direct use of the first communication type to control the at least one device. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of an electrical power request from the at least one device. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of electrical power requirements from the at least one device. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct the current along the trunk cable to the at least one device, wherein the current is transmitted through the distribution junction. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the distribution junction further comprises a controller that controls (i) the current, (ii) the first type of communication, and/or (iii) the second type of communication transmitted through the distribution junction. Including device. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at least one controller is configured to control the directed current in response to the electrical power requirement received from the at least one device. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to formulate or direct formulation of a time schedule for operation of the at least one device. 21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of a duration of time for a given process to occur on the device. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the at least one controller is configured to determine or direct a determination of when the at least one device is required to operate. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one controller determines (i) a mode of operation, (ii) a scheme for the at least one device, or (iii) any combination or plurality thereof, or its An apparatus configured to direct a decision. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the at least one device comprises a first device having a first mode of operation and a second device having a second mode of operation, wherein the at least one controller is configured to operate in the first mode and the second mode. An apparatus configured to interlace or indicate interlacing of modes of operation. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the at least one device comprises a first device configured to issue a first request, and a second device configured to issue a second request, wherein the at least one controller controls the first request and the second device. The apparatus is configured to interlace or direct interlacing of the second request. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is configured to prioritize or direct prioritization of a power budget for the at least one device and/or channel according to logic. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the logic comprises (i) a device specification, (ii) a device power request, (iii) a device power requirement for the at least one device, (iv) a power request from the at least one device, ( v) predicted power usage by said at least one device, (vi) machine learning (ML), (vii) one or more scheduling constraints, (vii) historical data, (viii) product management, or (ix) one or more reasonable An apparatus comprising inference. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the device power requirements specify one or more specifications including (i) an amount of power, (ii) a delivery time for the power, or (iii) a delivery duration for the power. Device. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the at least one controller uses the power budget prioritization to generate a power distribution scheme for a certain channel of a plurality of channels and/or a certain device of the at least one device; or A device configured to direct its use. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one controller is configured to distribute or direct distribution of electrical power to a certain channel of the plurality of channels and/or a certain device of the at least one device. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the at least one device comprises a plurality of devices, and the at least one controller is configured to define or direct a definition of a priority list of devices for electrical power usage among the plurality of devices. Becoming device. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the at least one controller is configured to monitor or direct monitoring of electrical power distribution to the plurality of devices, the plurality of devices coupled to a network. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller is configured to receive or direct receipt of an electrical power budget request from one or more of the plurality of devices. 34. The system of claim 33, wherein the at least one controller comprises: (i) an electrical power budget request, (ii) the electrical power budget request and any other power budget request, (iii) a distribution status of electrical power in the network; (iv) an estimate of the distribution of electrical power in the network at a future time, (v) a historical power usage of any of a plurality of devices in the network, (vi) a power usage trend of any of the plurality of devices, or (vii) a device that is configured to consider or direct consideration of any combination or plurality thereof. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller terminates the second type of communication for a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is using electrical power above a threshold; or device configured to instruct its termination. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the at least one controller removes at least a portion of the electrical power from a device of the plurality of devices in response to detecting that the device is using electrical power above a threshold; or A device configured to direct its removal. A system for power and communication transmission, comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit the current, and (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable. A non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to execute an operation. It has a command to do, and the operation is,
(A) transmitting or directing transmission of a current, a first type of communication used for control of the at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, over the cabling system - the cable is a portion of a cabling system to which the at least one device is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit the current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit the current, and (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(f) configured to direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(B) control or instruct control of the at least one device by using the first type of communication. A method for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
(A) transmitting, over a cabling system, a current, a first communication type used for control of the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, wherein the cable is connected to the at least one device; is part of a cabling system to which is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit the current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit the current, and (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(f) configured to direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(B) controlling the at least one device by using the first communication type. A system for power and communication transmission, comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of devices of the facility, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a plurality of branch line cables configured to transmit the current, and (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication and configured to couple to the device; and
and at least a controller configured to control distribution of the current and/or activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted in the system. An apparatus for controlling a device of a facility, said apparatus comprising at least one controller having circuitry, said at least one controller comprising:
(A) operably couple to a cabling system, the cabling system comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication; and
the current, and
a plurality of branch line cables configured to transmit (i) the first type of communication and/or (ii) the second type of communication and configured to couple to the device;
(B) operably couple to the device; and
(C) control or direct control of distribution of the current and/or activation of the device by taking account of the current transmitted in the system. A non-transitory computer-readable program product for controlling a device of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable program product, when read by at least one processor, providing instructions that cause the at least one processor to execute operations. has, and the operation,
(A) transmitting or directing the transmission of a current, a first type of communication used for control of the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, over a cabling system - the cable is connected to the device; is part of a cabling system to which is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising:
A trunk cable configured to transmit the current, a first type of communication used for control of the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and
the current, and
a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch wires being configured to couple to the device; and
(B) controlling or instructing the control of distribution of said current and/or activation of said device by taking account of the current transmitted in said system. A method for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
(A) transmitting, over a cabling system, a current, a first communication type used for control of the at least one device, and a second communication type configured for media communication, wherein the cable is connected to the at least one device; is part of a cabling system to which is operably coupled, the cabling system comprising:
A trunk cable configured to transmit the current, a first type of communication used for control of the device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication, and
the current, and
a plurality of trunk cables configured to transmit (i) the first type of communication, and/or (ii) the second type of communication, the branch wires being configured to couple to the device; and
(B) controlling the distribution of the current and/or the activation of the device by taking into account the current transmitted in the system. A system for controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the current, and (ii) the first type of communication, and/or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(g) configured to operably couple to the at least one device. A method of controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
(A) using a cabling system - the cabling system comprising:
(I) a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
(II) a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the current, and (ii) the first type of communication, and/or (iii) the second type of communication, wherein the branch line is configured to couple to the at least one device. , and
(III) a distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, wherein the distribution junction comprises:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(g) configured to operatively couple to said at least one device; and
(B) controlling the at least one device at least in part by using the first communication type. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising at least one controller, said at least one controller comprising:
(A) operably couple to a cabling system, the cabling system comprising:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the current, and (ii) the first type of communication, and/or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(g) configured to operatively couple to said at least one device;
(B) use or direct the use of the cabling system; and
(C) control or direct control of the at least one device at least in part by using the first type of communication. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product including instructions stored thereon, the instructions being one operably coupled to a cabling system of the facility. When executed by one or more processors, causing the one or more processors to execute an operation, the cabling system comprises:
a trunk cable configured to transmit current, a first type of communication used for control of at least one device, and a second type of communication configured for media communication;
a branch line cable configured to transmit (i) the current, and (ii) the first type of communication, and/or (iii) the second type of communication, the branch line being configured to couple to the at least one device; and
A distribution junction having a first connection, a second connection, and a third connection, the distribution junction comprising:
(a) coupled by the first connection and by the second connection along the trunk cable;
(b) to be coupled to the branch line by the third connection part,
(c) direct the current from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(d) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the first connection to the second connection along the trunk cable;
(e) direct the current from the trunk cable to the branch cable;
(f) direct the first communication type and/or the second communication type from the trunk cable to the branch cable; and
(g) configured to operably couple to the at least one device; The action is
(A) using or directing the use of the cabling system; and
(B) controlling or instructing control of the at least one device at least in part by using the first type of communication. A method of controlling at least one device of a facility, comprising:
(a) directing transmission of current from a trunk cable to a device through a branch cable, the branch cable operably coupled to the trunk cable through a distribution splice configured to direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable. become -;
(b) monitoring electrical power consumption of the device across the trunk cable, the distribution splice, and the branch cable; and
(c) controlling the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring. A non-transitory computer readable program product for controlling at least one device of a facility, the non-transitory computer program product comprising instructions stored therein, the instructions being directed to a cabling system of the facility and to an electrical power supply of electric current. When executed by one or more processors operatively coupled to cause the one or more processors to perform an operation, the operation comprising:
(a) directing the transmission of the current from a trunk cable of the cabling system through a branch cable to a device in the facility, wherein the branch cable comprises a distribution splice configured to direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable. operably coupled to the trunk cable via;
(b) monitoring or directing monitoring of electrical power consumption of the device across the trunk cable, the distribution splice, and the branch cable; and
(c) controlling or instructing control of the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring. An apparatus for controlling at least one device of a facility, said apparatus comprising at least one controller, said at least one controller comprising:
(a) operably couple to the facility's cabling system and to an electrical power source of current;
(b) to direct transmission of the current from a trunk cable of the cabling system through a branch cable to a device in the facility, wherein the branch cable comprises a distribution splice configured to direct current from the trunk cable to the branch cable. operably coupled to the trunk cable via;
(c) monitor or direct monitoring of electrical power consumption of the device across the trunk cable, the distribution splice, and the branch cable; and
(d) control or direct control of the current from the trunk cable to the device in response to the monitoring.

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