AU2016305495B2

AU2016305495B2 - An enhanced power window assembly

Info

Publication number: AU2016305495B2
Application number: AU2016305495A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Clinton Dickens; Steven Ian Harrison
Original assignee: Breezway Australia Holdings Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Breezway Australia Holdings Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-08-13
Filing date: 2016-08-11
Publication date: 2022-03-10
Anticipated expiration: 2036-08-11
Also published as: AU2016305495A1; WO2017024354A1

Abstract

A louvre window assembly including a surround frame, a number of louvre blades mounted within the surround frame, at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component, each of the at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component mounted using a louvre blade end clip including at least one louvre blade receiving opening having at least one electrical contact associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip.

Description

AN ENHANCED POWER WINDOW ASSEMBLY TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to powered window assemblies and particularly to a louvre window clip that provides an interface between the louvre blade and a power supply and/or collection system and a window system including one or more louvre window clips.

BACKGROUNDART

[0002] Powered window systems for building structures are known. Typically these window systems are either particularly complex involving integrated building management systems or they are controlled by a stand-alone remote control which is specific to the powered window system.

[0003] Windows provide views, daylighting, ventilation, and heat from the sun in the winter. Unfortunately, they can also account for 10% to 25% of a home heating bill by letting heat out. Whilst some building codes limit the amount of window space in a wall or building, the use of glass in modem buildings is increasing.

[0004] It would therefore be an advantage in the art if windows could be used for useful purposes aside from their known uses in views, daylighting, ventilation, and heat from the sun.

[0005] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0006] The present invention is directed to an enhanced power window assembly, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

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[0007] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in an enhanced power window assembly including a surround frame, at least one glass panel located at least partially within the surround frame and at least one glass panel mount to mount the at least one glass panel relative to the surround frame, the at least one glass panel mount including at least one electrical contact to interface an electrical component provided with the at least one glass panel with an electrical subsystem provided within or outside the surround frame, wherein the electrical component is configured to provide one or more ancillary functions selected from the group including changes in opacity of the or some of the glass panels, the inclusion of one or more display-enabled glass panels, one or more touch sensitive glass panels and one or more glass panels which are electro-optics enabled.

[0008] In an alternate form, the invention resides in a louvre blade end clip to mount a louvre blade relative thereto, the louvre blade carrying an electrical component, the louvre blade end clip including at least one louvre blade receiving opening having at least one electrical contact associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip.

[0009] In a further alternative form, the present invention resides in a louvre window assembly including a surround frame, a number of louvre blades mounted within the surround frame, at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component, each of the at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component mounted using a louvre blade end clip including at least one louvre blade receiving opening having at least one electrical contact associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip, wherein the electrical component is configured to provide one or more ancillary functions selected from the group including changes in opacity of at least some of the louvre blades, the inclusion of display-enabled louvre blades, touch sensitive louvre blades and louvre blades which are electro-optics enabled, wherein one louvre blade in the louvre window assembly is designated as a control blade, the control blade being provided with an input or control interface to control the louvre window assembly or the associated ancillary function, and wherein the input or control interface is provided on an inner surface of the control blade and an electrical component is provided on the outer surface of the control blade.

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[00010] Whilst the present invention will mainly be described with reference to louvre windows and louvre window assemblies, similar principles can be adapted to other types of windows with one or more moving panels.

[00011] The window assembly of the preferred embodiment is typically powered to open and close without requiring manual movement by a user. The window assembly of the present invention is capable of ancillary functions including changes in opacity of at least some of the louvre blades, electrical power generation, the inclusion of display-enabled louvre blades, touch sensitive louvre blades and louvre blades which are electro-optics enabled.

[00012] In some embodiments, electrical power is supplied to the window assembly but in other embodiments, the window assembly itself may be responsible for generating electrical power. Normally, a motor or similar, preferably an electric motor will be provided, normally mounted in the surround frame in order to open and close the window assembly. The motor can be powered in any way, for example using mains power, using a renewable energy source such as solar power and/or using one or more batteries which can be mounted in the surround frame.

[00013] In addition, one or more sensors may be provided to trigger opening and closing of the window assembly depending upon the prevailing conditions or based on instructions received. The sensors may not be weather-related. For example, a biometric identification sensor may be provided on the window assembly and preferably on a window panel itself in order to control the window assembly and/or to activate the opening and/or closing sequence.

[00014] The window assembly of the present invention includes a surround frame. Although windows can be made in any shape, normally windows are rectangular and therefore, the surround frame normally defines an external shape of the window. Preferably, the surround frame will have at least one head member, at least one sill member opposite the head member and a pair of side jambs.

[00015] According to the present invention, one or more connectors may be provided in or through any one or more of the surround frame members to allow connection to an external electrical subsystem dependent upon the electrical components provided in the window assembly. For example, the connectors may be adapted to pass electrical current in one or

(37908919_1):SAYOU both directions and/or connectors may be provided to allow data to pass in one or both directions.

[00016] According to a particularly preferred form, the window assembly of the preferred embodiment will be provided in a fully assembled form, with all parts or components installed such that a window installer will simply be required to connect the one or more connectors provided and install the window assembly into an opening in a wall, as normal.

[00017] The window assembly of the present invention includes at least one window panel located at least partially within the surround frame. Each window panel can be made from any material or combination of materials. It can be any type of window panel and any number of window panels used in a window assembly dependent only on the window configuration.

[00018] It is preferred that the window assembly of the present invention is a window that is power driven between the open and closed condition but this is not strictly necessary as the principles of the present invention can be incorporated into a window assembly which is opened and closed manually. As mentioned above, a particularly preferred window assembly according to the present invention is a louvre window assembly which is commonly referred to in the United States as a "jalousie".

[00019] The preferred louvre window assembly includes a number of louvre blades within the surround frame. Each of the louvre blades will typically be opened and closed in concert with each of the other louvre blades although some of the louvre blades may be fixed. Normally, fixed louvre blades are provided at the top of the louvre window assembly and/or the bottom of the louvre window assembly. The louvre blades could be made of any one or more of a number of materials, for example, glass, wood, aluminium, vinyl, and/or composite materials.

[00020] Each of the louvre blades within the preferred louvre window assembly is typically mounted relative to the surround frame using a pair of louvre blade end clips for each louvre blade. The end clips are normally mounted for rotation (except fixed louvre blades) relative to a channel member provided on either end of the louvre blades. A bearing is typically provided for each louvre blade end clip to engage with one or more elongate operating bars provided in the channel member such that linear movement of the operating bars will

(37908919_1):SAYOU typically rotate at the bearing, which rotates the end clip thereby moving the louvre blade between the open and closed condition. The bearings are normally mounted approximately centrally on the louvre blade end clip.

[00021] A louvre blade end clip is preferably used to mount the louvre blades relative to the surround frame. As will be clear, a different configuration of window panel mount will be used for windows having a different configuration.

[00022] Each louvre blade end clip normally has a louvre blade receiving opening and this receiving opening typically extend substantially of the height or length of the louvre blade end clip. Normally, the louvre blade receiving opening is provided approximately centrally across the louvre blade end clip. Typically, the shaped wall is provided to either side of the louvre blade receiving opening which defines the external shape of the end clip as viewed by a user.

[00023] The louvre blade receiving opening is normally substantially U-shaped with a pair of spaced apart side walls between which the blade is received and a base wall extending transversely between the spaced apart side walls and relative to which the end edge of the louvre blade is typically located. The spaced apart side walls normally receive the louvre blade closely therebetween.

[00024] In some embodiments, a transverse pin or similar may be provided through an opening formed in one of the shaped walls, through both side walls of the blade receiving opening (end through an opening in the louvre blade) in order to fix the louvre blade relative to the end clip. Where provided, the transverse pin is normally provided approximately centrally over the height of the end clip. In some embodiments, the transverse pin extends through one or more portions of the bearing as well in order to fix the bearing to the end clip and to the louvre blade.

[00025] Normally, a shaped wall of the end clip extends away from a respective sidewall of the end clip and terminates at a free end which is normally substantially coplanar with an outer side of the base wall of the blade receiving opening. This normally means that the respective free ends of the shaped walls and that the outer side of the base wall of the blade receiving openings form a plane which either abuts or is closely spaced from the channel

(37908919_1):SAYOU relative to which the end clips are mounted. An opening is normally provided through one of the walls of the channel through which a bearing can engage the end clip both mounting the end clip to the channel and allowing rotation of the end clip to be driven by components located in the channel.

[00026] The window panel mount provided for the window panels in the window assemblies of other configurations is preferably similar to the louvre blade end clip in that a window panel receiving opening is preferably defined on a least one side of the window panel in order to receive a portion of the or each window panel.

[00027] The window panel mount includes at least one electrical contact to interface with an electrical component provided with or carried by the window panel and electrical subsystem provided within or outside the surround frame. The electrical component provided with or carried by the window panel may be provided as a part of the window panel itself or onto the window panel. Where the electrical component is provided to the window panel, the electrical component can be or include a surface film or similar of which there are various types currently available. In some instances, the electrical component can be provided as the window panel itself for example, a touchscreen or display screen or similar can be provided as the window panel.

[00028] An electrical component can be provided on some or all of the window panels. Where more than one window panel is provided, window panels can have different electrical components provided on different window panels or more than one electrical component can be provided on any one window panel.

[00029] In the preferred louvre window assembly configuration, one louvre blade in a louvre window assembly may be designated as a control blade and provide an input or control interface to control the louvre window assembly or functionality associated therewith on the louvre blade itself. Typically, the input or control interface will be provided with another electrical component provided on the same blade. Normally, the input of control interface may be provided on a different portion of the louvre blade to the electrical component. For example, the input or control interface can be provided on an inner surface of the louvre blade and the electrical component can be provided on the outer surface as this may minimise disruption between the two components.

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[00030] One example of ancillary functionality that can be provided using an electrical component is smart glass or switchable glass which is glass or glazing whose light transmission properties are altered when voltage, light or heat is applied. Generally, the glass changes from translucent to transparent, changing from blocking some (or all) wavelengths of light to letting light pass through.

[00031] Smart glass technologies include electrochromic, photochromic, thermochromic, suspended particle, micro-blind and liquid crystal devices.

[00032] Electrochromic devices change light transmission properties in response to voltage and thus allow control over the amount of light and heat passing through. In electrochromic glass, the electrochromic material changes its opacity: it changes between a coloured, translucent state (usually blue) and a transparent state. A burst of electricity is required for changing its opacity, but once the change has been effected, no electricity is needed for maintaining the particular shade which has been reached. Darkening occurs from the edges, moving inward, and can be a relatively slow process, ranging from many seconds to several minutes depending on size. Electrochromic glass provides visibility even in the darkened state and thus preserves visible contact with the outside environment.

[00033] Recent advances in electrochromic materials pertaining to transition-metal hydride electrochromics have led to the development of reflective hydrides, which become reflective rather than absorbing, and thus switch states between transparent and mirror-like.

[00034] Recent advancements in modified porous nano-crystalline films have enabled the creation of electrochromic display. The single substrate display structure consists of several stacked porous layers printed on top of each other on a substrate modified with a transparent conductor (such as ITO or PEDOT:PSS). Each printed layer has a specific set of functions. A working electrode consists of a positive porous semiconductor (say Titanium Dioxide, TiO 2 )

with adsorbed chromogens (different chromogens for different colours). These chromogens change colour by reduction or oxidation. A passivator is used as the negative of the image to improve electrical performance. The insulator layer serves the purpose of increasing the contrast ratio and separating the working electrode electrically from the counter electrode. The counter electrode provides a high capacitance to counterbalances the charge inserted/extracted on the SEG electrode (and maintain overall device charge neutrality).

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Carbon is an example of charge reservoir film. A conducting carbon layer is typically used as the conductive back contact for the counter electrode. In the last printing step, the porous monolith structure is overprinted with a liquid or polymer-gel electrolyte, dried, and then may be incorporated into various encapsulation or enclosures, depending on the application requirements. Displays are very thin, typically 30 micrometer, or about 1/3 of a human hair. The device can be switched on by applying an electrical potential to the transparent conducting substrate relative to the conductive carbon layer. This causes a reduction of viologen molecules (coloration) to occur inside the working electrode. By reversing the applied potential or providing a discharge path, the device bleaches. A unique feature of the electrochromic monolith is the relatively low voltage (around 1 Volt) needed to colour or bleach the viologens. This can be explained by the small over- potentials needed to drive the electrochemical reduction of the surface adsorbed viologens/chromogens.

[00035] In polymer dispersed liquid crystal devices (PDLCs), liquid crystals are dissolved or dispersed into a liquid polymer followed by solidification or curing of the polymer. During the change of the polymer from a liquid to solid, the liquid crystals become incompatible with the solid polymer and form droplets throughout the solid polymer. The curing conditions affect the size of the droplets that in turn affect the final operating properties of the "smart window". Typically, the liquid mix of polymer and liquid crystals is placed between two layers of glass or plastic that include a thin layer of a transparent, conductive material followed by curing of the polymer, thereby forming the basic sandwich structure of the smart window. This structure is in effect a capacitor.

[00036] Electrodes from a power supply are attached to the transparent electrodes. With no applied voltage, the liquid crystals are randomly arranged in the droplets, resulting in scattering of light as it passes through the smart window assembly. This results in the translucent, "milky white" appearance. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes, the electric field formed between the two transparent electrodes on the glass causes the liquid crystals to align, allowing light to pass through the droplets with very little scattering and resulting in a transparent state. The degree of transparency can be controlled by the applied voltage. This is possible because at lower voltages, only a few of the liquid crystals align completely in the electric field, so only a small portion of the light passes through while most of the light is scattered. As the voltage is increased, fewer liquid crystals remain out of alignment, resulting in less light being scattered. It is also possible to control the amount of

(37908919_1):SAYOU light and heat passing through, when tints and special inner layers are used. It is also possible to create fire-rated and anti X-Ray versions for use in special applications. Most of the devices offered today operate in on or off states only, even though the technology to provide for variable levels of transparency is easily applied. This technology has been used in interior and exterior settings for privacy control (for example conference rooms, intensive-care areas, bathroom/shower doors) and as a temporary projection screen. It is commercially available in rolls as adhesive backed smart film that can be applied to existing windows and trimmed to size in the field.

[00037] A thin-film solar cell can be provided as the electrical component. These cells are second generation solar cells that are made by depositing one or more thin layers, or thin film (TF) of photovoltaic material on a substrate, such as glass, plastic or metal. Thin-film solar cells are commercially used in several technologies, including cadmium telluride (CdTe), copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS), and amorphous thin-film silicon (a-Si, TF-Si). Other thin-film technologies, that are still in an early stage of ongoing research or with limited commercial availability, are often classified as emerging or third generation photovoltaic cells and include, organic, dye-sensitized, and polymer solar cells, as well as quantum dot, copper zinc tin sulfide, nanocrystal, micromorph and perovskite solar cells.

[00038] The electrical subsystem corresponding to the electrical component provided on or carried by the window panel is preferably provided in the surround frame but may be provided outside the surround frame or even remotely from the surround frame. The electrical subsystem will typically be appropriate to the electrical component provided on or carried by the window panel.

[00039] At least one electrical contact is provided in the window panel mount to interface with the electrical component and the electrical subsystem. As mentioned above, the at least one electrical contact may allow current and/or data to be passed between the electrical component and the electrical subsystem. The exact nature of whether current and/or data flows depends upon the particular nature of the electrical component provided. For example, a photovoltaic film applied to a window panel will typically mean that current flows from the window panel to a storage subsystem or the agreed. If the window panel is or includes switchable glass, current will typically flow from a current supply subsystem to the window panel. If the window panel is display enabled, then current will normally flow to the window

(37908919_1):SAYOU panel and data may flow to the window panel as well. Where the window panel is an interactive enabled window panel, current will typically flow to the window panel and data may flow to and from the window panel.

[00040] The least one electrical contact is provided in the window panel mount and in the preferred embodiment discussed above of a louvre window assembly, the at least one electrical contact is provided in at least one of the louvre blade end clips in order to form a connection between the electrical component provided with or carried by the louvre blade and the corresponding electrical subsystem. Preferably, at least one contact is provided in the louvre blade receiving opening. According to the most preferred embodiment, an electrical contact is provided at least partially over the at least one sidewall of the louvre blade receiving opening and/or at least partially over the at least one base wall of the louvre blade receiving opening. The exact position and extent of the electrical contact will in large part be determined by the particular electrical component carried by or provided on the louvre blade. Any type of contact can be provided which allows current and/or data flow.

[00041] Appropriate connections are provided between the at least one electrical contact provided in the window panel mount and the electrical subsystem. Normally, a ribbon or flexible PCB or similar will be provided. Typically, the ribbon or flexible PCB will enter the preferred louvre blade end clip through the bearing provided. Normally, the ribbon or flexible PCB connection will be located coaxially with the axis of rotation of the louvre blade end clip which will normally limit the potential for damage to the ribbon or flexible PCB. Normally, the ribbon or flexible PCB will extend at least into the louvre blade end clip through the base wall of the louvre blade receiving opening in order to access the at least one electrical contact located in the louvre blade receiving opening.

[00042] The window assembly of the preferred embodiment will normally have a main wiring bus, preferably provided in at least one of the surround frame members in order to connect with the ribbons or flexible PCBs from each of the end clips. Normally, the main wiring bus will be provided in a side member of the surround frame the main wiring bus will normally then connect to the electrical subsystem.

[00043] As mentioned above, the electrical subsystem may be provided within the surround frame if small enough. One example is a battery which is charged using electrical current

(37908919_1):SAYOU generated from a solar cell or PV film provided on a window panel. Such a battery can be used for storage of electrical current to allow an electrical motor to open and close the window assembly or to power one or more sensors in the window assembly to create a standalone window assembly which is not connected to mains power. In this configuration, a battery can be provided in one of the surround frame members.

[00044] The electrical subsystem or portions thereof can be provided outside the window assembly if larger and more complex. More complex systems such as display active or displayed interactive window panels, or touchscreens window panels may require at least portions of the electrical subsystem to powering control the systems, externally of the window frame. Some technologies, such as touchscreens or biometric activation, are currently available and the electrical subsystems to drive these may be small enough to locate in the surround frame. For example, a louvre window assembly can be provided as a display screen with a touchscreen interface functioning similarly to a tablet or smart phone screen with a data connection provided in the window assembly in order to allow a user to use the louvre window (typically when closed) as a tablet computer or the like.

[00045] Window assemblies of the present invention can be used to display or convey patterns or messages or to provide switchable privacy glass or tinted glass for example. A window assembly according to the present invention can be used as a PV collector through the application of PV film to an external surface of the window panel. Combinations of electrical components on the louvre blades can be used either on the same louvre blades within the system or different electrical components provided on different louvre blades in the same system. In this regard, the louvre blade system can provide more flexibility than other window configurations which typically have a limited number of window panels which can be used, sometimes only the one panel which although well configured to function as a display screen for example, may not be flexible enough to handle different combinations of electrical components on the same window panel.

[00046] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

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[00047] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00048] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00049] Figure 1 is a front elevation schematic view of a powered louvre window assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00050] Figure 2 is a front elevation schematic view of a powered louvre window assembly including solar panels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00051] Figure 3 is a front elevation schematic view of a powered louvre window assembly including PDLC-equipped louvre panels for privacy according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00052] Figure 4 is a front elevation schematic view of a powered louvre window assembly including PDLC-equipped louvre panels for creating patterns according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00053] Figure 5 is a front elevation view of an example of a louvre window end clip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention with flexible PCB.

[00054] Figure 6A is a schematic sectional view of a louvre window end clip showing the conventional components.

[00055] Figure 6B is a schematic sectional view of the louvre window end clip of a preferred embodiment.

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[00056] Figure 7 is a front elevation schematic view of a louvre window assembly according to a preferred embodiment showing wiring.

[00057] Figure 8 is a detailed elevation view of a portion of the wiring illustrated in Figure 7.

[00058] Figure 9 is a schematic front elevation view of a louvre window assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00059] Figure 10 is a schematic front elevation view of a louvre window assembly according to an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[00060] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a powered louvre window assembly 10 with ancillary functionality is provided.

[00061] The louvre window assembly 10 illustrated in the Figures each include a surround frame made up of a number of surround frame members, a number of louvre blades 11 mounted within the surround frame, at least some of the louvre blades 11 carrying an electrical component. Each of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component are mounted using a louvre blade end clip 12 which has a louvre blade receiving opening 13 having electrical contacts 14 associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip 12.

[00062] The window assembly of the preferred embodiment is typically powered to open and close without requiring manual movement by a user. In some embodiments, electrical power is supplied to the window assembly but in other embodiments, the window assembly itself may be responsible for generating electrical power. Normally, an electric motor 15 is provided, mounted in the surround frame in order to open and close the louvre clades 11 in the louvre window assembly 10. The motor 15 can be powered in any way, for example using mains power, using a renewable energy source such as solar power and/or using one or more batteries 16 which can be mounted in the surround frame as illustrated in Figure 1.

[00063] In the embodiments illustrated, a sensor 17 is provided to trigger opening and closing of the window assembly depending upon the prevailing weather conditions or based on

(37908919_1):SAYOU instructions received. Further, a remote system may be provided, forms of which are illustrated in Figures 9 and 10 through which a user can use a software application 18 on a device 19 such as a Smartphone or tablet to control the louvre window assembly.

[00064] [0064] The louvre window assembly of the illustrated embodiment includes a surround frame, specifically at a head member 20, a sill member 21 opposite the head member 20 and a pair of side jambs 22. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, a central member 23 is provided between two window assemblies and the sensor 17 is mounted on the central member 23.

[00065] [0065] As will be explained in more detail below, one or more connectors may be provided in or through any one or more of the surround frame members to allow connection to an external electrical subsystem dependent upon the electrical components provided in the window assembly.

[00066] According to a particularly preferred form, the window assembly 10 will be provided in a fully assembled form, with all parts or components installed such that a window installer will simply be required to connect the one or more connectors provided and install the window assembly into an opening in a wall, as normal.

[00067] The preferred louvre window assembly 10 includes a number of louvre blades 11 within the surround frame. Each of the louvre blades 11 will typically be opened and closed in concert with each of the other louvre blades 11 although some of the louvre blades may be fixed. Normally, fixed louvre blades are provided at the top of the louvre window assembly and/or the bottom of the louvre window assembly.

[00068] Each of the louvre blades 11 within the preferred louvre window assembly 10 is mounted relative to the surround frame using a pair of louvre blade end clips 12 for each louvre blade, one at either lateral end of the louvre blade 11. The end clips are mounted for rotation relative to a channel member provided on either end of the louvre blades. A bearing 24 such as that illustrated in Figure 5 is typically provided for each louvre blade end clip 12 to engage with one or more elongate operating bars provided in the channel member such that linear movement of the operating bars will rotate the bearing 24 which rotates the end clip 12

(37908919_1):SAYOU thereby moving the louvre blade 11 between the open and closed condition. The bearings 24 are normally mounted approximately centrally on the louvre blade end clip 12.

[00069] As best illustrated in Figure 6A, each louvre blade end clip 12 has a louvre blade receiving opening 13 extending substantially of the height or length of the louvre blade end clip 12. Normally, the louvre blade receiving opening 13 is provided approximately centrally across the louvre blade end clip 12. A shaped wall 25 is provided to either side of the louvre blade receiving opening 13 which defines the external shape of the end clip 12 as viewed by a user.

[00070] The louvre blade receiving opening 13 is normally substantially U-shaped with a pair of spaced apart side walls 26 between which the blade 11 is received and a base wall 27 extending transversely between the spaced apart side walls 26 and relative to which the end edge of the louvre blade 11 is typically located. The spaced apart side walls 26 normally receive the louvre blade 11 closely therebetween.

[00071] In some embodiments, a transverse pin 28 may be provided through an opening formed in one of the shaped walls 25, through both side walls 26 of the blade receiving opening (and through an opening in the louvre blade 11) in order to fix the louvre blade 11 relative to the end clip 12. Where provided, the transverse pin 28 is normally provided approximately centrally over the height of the end clip 12. In some embodiments, the transverse pin 28 extends through one or more portions of the bearing 24 as well in order to fix the bearing 24 to the end clip 12 and to the louvre blade 11.

[00072] As illustrated in Figure 6A, the shaped wall 25 of the end clip 12 extend away from a respective sidewall 16 of the end clip 12 and terminate at a free end which is normally substantially coplanar with an outer side of the base wall 27 of the blade receiving opening 13. This normally means that the respective free ends of the shaped walls and that the outer side of the base wall of the blade receiving openings form a plane which either abuts or is closely spaced from the channel 28 relative to which the end clips 12 are mounted. An opening is normally provided through one of the walls of the channel 29 through which a bearing 24 can engage the end clip 12 both mounting the end clip 12 to the channel 29 and allowing rotation of the end clip 12 to be driven by an operating bar 30 located in the channel 29.

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[00073] As illustrated in Figure 6B, the louvre blade end clip 12 includes electrical contacts 14 to interface with an electrical component provided with or carried by the window panel and an electrical subsystem provided within or outside the surround frame.

[00074] The electrical component provided with or carried by the louvre blades 11 may be provided as a part of the louvre blades 11 or onto the louvre blades 11. Where the electrical component is provided to the louvre blades 11, the electrical component can be a surface film or similar of which there are various types currently available.

[00075] An electrical component can be provided on some or all of the louvre blades 11 as illustrated in Figures 1 to 4. Where more than one louvre blade 11 is provided, louvre blades 11 can have different electrical components provided on different louvre blades 11 or more than one electrical component can be provided on any one louvre blade 11.

[00076] One example of ancillary functionality that can be provided using an electrical component is smart glass or switchable glass such as is illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 which is glass or glazing whose light transmission properties are altered when voltage, light or heat is applied. Generally, the glass changes from translucent to transparent, changing from blocking some (or all) wavelengths of light to letting light pass through.

[00077] The preferred switchable glass includes a polymer dispersed liquid crystal film 31 (PDLCs), liquid crystals are dissolved or dispersed into a liquid polymer followed by solidification or curing of the polymer. During the change of the polymer from a liquid to solid, the liquid crystals become incompatible with the solid polymer and form droplets throughout the solid polymer. The curing conditions affect the size of the droplets that in turn affect the final operating properties of the "smart window". Typically, the liquid mix of polymer and liquid crystals is placed between two layers of glass or plastic that include a thin layer of a transparent, conductive material followed by curing of the polymer, thereby forming the basic sandwich structure of the smart window. This structure is in effect a capacitor.

[00078] Electrodes from a power supply are attached to the transparent electrodes. With no applied voltage, the liquid crystals are randomly arranged in the droplets, resulting in scattering of light as it passes through the smart window assembly. This results in the

(37908919_1):SAYOU translucent, "milky white" appearance. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes, the electric field formed between the two transparent electrodes on the glass causes the liquid crystals to align, allowing light to pass through the droplets with very little scattering and resulting in a transparent state. The degree of transparency can be controlled by the applied voltage. This is possible because at lower voltages, only a few of the liquid crystals align completely in the electric field, so only a small portion of the light passes through while most of the light is scattered. As the voltage is increased, fewer liquid crystals remain out of alignment, resulting in less light being scattered. It is also possible to control the amount of light and heat passing through, when tints and special inner layers are used. Most of the devices offered today operate in on or off states only, even though the technology to provide for variable levels of transparency is easily applied. This technology has been used in interior and exterior settings for privacy control (for example conference rooms, intensive-care areas, bathroom/shower doors) and as a temporary projection screen. It is commercially available in rolls as adhesive backed smart film that can be applied to existing windows and trimmed to size in the field.

[00079] In Figure 3, the central louvre blades 11 of an assembly are provided with the polymer dispersed liquid crystal film 31 and the upper and lower blades 33 remain clear. This allows formation of a privacy section in the louvre window assembly. In the illustrated in Figure 4, the polymer dispersed liquid crystal film 31 is applied to alternating louvre blades which allows the creation of patterns. This is likely to find more application in a commercial environment.

[00080] A thin-film solar cell could be used as illustrated in Figure 2. These cells are a second generation solar cell that is made by depositing one or more thin layers, or thin film (TF) of photovoltaic material on a substrate, such as glass, plastic or metal.

[00081] The electrical subsystem corresponding to the electrical component provided on or carried by the window panel is preferably provided in the surround frame but may be provided outside the surround frame or even remotely from the surround frame. The electrical subsystem will typically be appropriate to the electrical component provided on or carried by the window panel.

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[00082] As mentioned above, depending upon the type of electrical component provided, the electrical contacts 14 may allow current and/or data to be passed between the electrical component and the electrical subsystem. The exact nature of whether current and/or data flows depend upon the particular nature of the electrical component provided. For example, a photovoltaic film applied to louvre blades 11 will typically mean that current flows from the louvre blades 11 to a storage subsystem or the grid. If the louvre blades 11 include switchable glass, current will typically flow from a current supply subsystem to the louvre blades 11. If the louvre blades 11 are display enabled, then current will normally flow to the louvre blades 11 and the data will flow to the louvre blades 11 as well. Where the louvre blades 11 are interactive enabled, current will typically flow to the louvre blades 11 and the data will flow to and from the louvre blades 11.

[00083] According to the preferred embodiments, the electrical contacts are provided in the louvre blade receiving opening 13 at least partially over the sidewalls 26 of the louvre blade receiving opening 13. The exact position and extent of the electrical contacts will in large part be determined by the particular electrical component carried by or provided on the louvre blade 11. Any type of contact can be provided which allows current and/or data flow.

[00084] Appropriate connections are provided between the at least one electrical contact provided in the window panel mount and the electrical subsystem. Normally, a ribbon or flexible PCB 34 or similar will be provided. The ribbon or flexible PCB 34 enters the louvre blade end clip 12 through the bearing 24 provided and extend at least into the louvre blade end clip 12 through the base wall 27 of the louvre blade receiving opening 13 in order to access the electrical contacts 14 located in the louvre blade receiving opening 13.

[00085] As illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the window assembly of the preferred embodiment has a main wiring bus 35, provided in at least one of the surround frame members in order to connect with the ribbons or flexible PCBs 34 from each of the end clips 12 which will normally be connected at end points 36. Normally, the main wiring bus 35 will be provided in a side member of the surround frame, and connect to the electrical subsystem.

[00086] Window systems are thereby provided such as those illustrated in Figures 9 and 10. In Figure 9, a window system having a PV cell provided with the lower louvre blade is provided to generate current to be stored in onboard batteries 16 and which can be used to

(37908919_1):SAYOU power a motor 15 to open and close the louvre window, as instructed wirelessly by a user using a software application operating on a Smartphone.

[00087] Figure 10 shows a more commercial application in which a louvre window is provided that includes a PV cell provided with the lower louvre blade is provided to generate current to be stored in onboard batteries 16 and which can be used to power a motor 15 to open and close the louvre window, as instructed wirelessly by a user using a software application operating on a Smartphone and an adjacent louvre window assembly in which alternating louvre blades are provided with switchable glass in order to generate attractive patterns.

[00088] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00089] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00090] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

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Claims

1. A louvre window assembly including a surround frame, a number of louvre blades mounted within the surround frame, at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component, each of the at least some of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component mounted using a louvre blade end clip including at least one louvre blade receiving opening having at least one electrical contact associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip, wherein the electrical component is configured to provide one or more ancillary functions selected from the group including changes in opacity of at least some of the louvre blades, the inclusion of display-enabled louvre blades, touch sensitive louvre blades and louvre blades which are electro-optics enabled, wherein one louvre blade in the louvre window assembly is designated as a control blade, the control blade being provided with an input or control interface to control the louvre window assembly or the associated ancillary function, and wherein the input or control interface is provided on an inner surface of the control blade and an electrical component is provided on the outer surface of the control blade.

2. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claim 1 including at least one motor powered to open and close without requiring manual movement by a user.

3. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claims or claim 2 wherein the electrical component functions to provide electrical power generation.

4. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein smart glass or switchable glass is provided.

5. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claim 4 wherein the smart glass includes any one or more of an electrochromic, photochromic, thermochromic, suspended particle, micro-blind or liquid crystal device.

6 A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a thin-film solar cell is provided as the electrical component.

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7. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein electrical power is supplied to the window assembly.

8. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the window assembly itself is responsible for generating electrical power.

9. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more sensors is provided to trigger opening and closing of the window assembly depending upon the prevailing weather conditions or based on instructions received.

10. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claim 9 wherein a biometric identification sensor is provided in relation to the window assembly in order to control the window assembly and/or to activate the opening and/or closing sequence.

11. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claim 10 wherein a biometric identification sensor is provided on at least a portion of a window panel.

12. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more connectors is provided in or through the surround frame to pass electrical current in one or both directions and/or to allow data to pass in one or both directions.

13. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the electrical subsystem corresponding to the electrical component is provided in the surround frame.

15. A louvre window assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the least one electrical contact is provided in at least one of the louvre blade end clips in order to form a connection between the electrical component provided with or carried by the louvre blade and a corresponding electrical subsystem.

16. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more louvre blades are provided as a display screen with a touchscreen interface and a data connection provided in the window assembly in order to allow a user to use the window assembly as a tablet computer or the like.

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17. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims including a number of louvre blades within the surround frame, each of the louvre blades mounted relative to the surround frame using a pair of louvre blade end clips for each louvre blade, at least some of the end clips mounted for rotation relative to the surround frame, at least one of the louvre blade end clips to mount a louvre blade relative thereto, at least one of the louvre blades carrying an electrical component, the louvre blade end clip including at least one louvre blade receiving opening having at least one electrical contact associated therewith to allow the electrical component to interface with an electrical subsystem provided remotely to the louvre blade end clip.

18. A louvre window assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the electrical component is or includes at least one surface film.

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