WO2021108396A1

WO2021108396A1 - Reversible electro optically spatially adaptive igu

Info

Publication number: WO2021108396A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/061996
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Bertin-Mourot; James Gregory Couillard
Original assignee: Corning Incorporated
Priority date: 2019-11-27
Filing date: 2020-11-24
Publication date: 2021-06-03
Also published as: TW202142775A

Abstract

Apparatus and related methods for operating an adaptive IGU are provided, comprising a first pane comprising a first electro-optical device, a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device, a gap therebetween; and a control device, configured to independently control the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device to thereby actuate at least one of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device, wherein the first pane and the second pane cooperate to provide an corresponding IGU visual light transmission state and IGU solar heat gain coefficient.

Description

REVERSIBLE ELECTRO OPTICALLY SPATIALLY ADAPTIVE IGU

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/941,272 filed November 27, 2019, the content of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[002] Generally, the present disclosure relates to various embodiments of an Insulating Glazing Unit (IGU) comprising a multi-pane assembly having an adaptative electro- optical function capable of changing visible light transmittance (VLT) and sun energy transmittance (SHGC for Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) in each pane.

[003] More specifically, the present disclosure is directed towards various embodiments of an Insulating Glazing Unit (IGU) comprising a multi-pane assembly having at least two glass panes sealed with a defined gap in between, where the first pane comprises an outer glass pane facing the outdoors, the second pane comprises an inner glass pane facing the indoors (or inside an enclosure, when used in applications outside of fenestration technologies), where the two panes are each configured with an adaptative electro-optical function, such that each pane is independently operable to adjust visible light transmission (VLT) and sun energy transmittance (SHGC for Solar Heat Gain Coefficient), such that the IGU is configured for tailored performance of the overall IGU in various considerations.

BACKGROUND

[004] The building envelope and particularly its glazing area have a very significant and direct impact on occupants’ comfort and overall building energy consumption for heating, cooling, and lighting. No existing window technologies enable season, climate, time of day, or other factors into IGU capabilities. Improved performance and modularity are desired. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[005] The described embodiments detail an IGU configured to reversibly modify the electro-optical performance of each of its panes. In one or more embodiments, the IGU is configured to reversibly modify the electro-optical performance is in a static position (e.g. not moved after installation). In some embodiments, the IGU is tailored to provide adjustable performance between specific types of electro-optical performance (e.g. VLT and SHGC as calculated using National Fenestration Rating Council’s Procedure for Determining Fenestration Product Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Visible Transmittance at Normal Incidence: NFRC 200) based on performance parameters (e.g. seasons condition), thus reducing heating and/or cooling costs, and power usage related to artificial lighting energy, while maintaining low glare and view from the IGU.

[006] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured to decrease building cooling load in summer, decrease building heating load in winter, and promote a balanced cooling/heating load in inter seasons.

[007] In one aspect, an insulating glazing unit is provided, comprising: a first pane comprising a first electro-optical device, a first control device, wherein the first control device is configured to control the first electro-optical device to thereby actuate the first electro-optical device to a first pane visual light transmission state selected from a plurality of visual light transmission states; a second pane comprising a second electro- optical device, wherein the second pane is configured in spaced relation from the first pane to define a gap therebetween; a second control device, wherein the second control device is configured to control the second electro-optical device to thereby actuate the second electro-optical device to a second pane visual light transmission state selected from a plurality of visual light transmission states, wherein the first pane visual light transmission state and the second pane visual light transmission state cooperate to provide an IGU visual light transmission state.

[008] In some embodiments, the first control device and second control device operate independent of each other.

[009] In some embodiments, the IGU has a gas retained in the gap. In some embodiments, the gas is an insulating gas.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first pane and second pane comprise a coating on at least one of: a first surface of the first pane; a second surface of the first pane; a first surface of the second pane; a second surface of the second pane, and combinations thereof. [0011] In some embodiments, the coating is selected from the group consisting of: a low emissivity coating, an anti-reflective coating; a tinted coating; an easy clean coating; an anti-bird strike coating, and/or combinations thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal film, and combinations thereof.

[0013] In one aspect, a method is provided, comprising: directing a control signal to an insulating glazing unit (IGU) having at least two panes, wherein the first pane comprises a first electro-optical device configured to provide the first pane with a first visual light transmission state and a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device configured to provide the second pane with a second visual light transmission state, actuating at least one of the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device based on the control signal, adjusting at least one of the first visual light transmission state and the second visual light transmission state to transform at least one of the first pane and the second pane to at least one adjusted visual light transmission state, wherein via the directing step, the initial IGU visual light transmission state is actuated to an adjusted IGU visual light transmission state.

[0014] In some embodiments, directing further comprises directing at least one of: a first target visual light transmission state to a first electro-optical device and a second target visual light transmission state to a second electro-optical device.

[0015] In some embodiments, directing comprises directing the control signal to a first control device of the first pane and a second control device of the second pane.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further comprises generating a control signal based on an input from at least one sensor.

[0017] In some embodiments, each of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device are configured with a plurality of visual light transmission states.

[0018] In some embodiments, each of the first electro-optical device and the pane and second pane are independently actuatable from each other.

[0019] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured with an initial IGU visual light transmission state, based on a visual light transmission state of the first pane and the visual light transmission state of the second pane. [0020] In some embodiments, wherein via the adjusting step, the corresponding visual light transmission state of the IGU is adjusted.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal film, and combinations thereof.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method comprises generating the control signal from a control system, wherein the control system is configured with programmable visual light transmission data for at least one of: the first pane, the second pane, and the IGU based on criterion including at least one of: geographic location; season; hour of day/day vs. night; core user occupancy hours; sensor data, and/or combinations thereof.

[0023] In some embodiments, the method further comprises repeating or reiterating the directing, actuating, and adjusting steps. In some embodiments, the method comprises repeating the sensing and/or generating steps.

[0024] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided, comprising: directing a control signal to an insulating glazing unit (IGU) having at least two panes, wherein the first pane comprises a first electro-optical device configured to provide the first pane with a first solar heat gain coefficient and a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device configured to provide the second pane with a second solar heat gain coefficient, actuating at least one of the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device based on the control signal; adjusting at least one of the first solar heat gain coefficient and the second solar heat gain coefficient to transform at least one of the first pane and the second pane to at least one adjusted solar heat gain coefficient, wherein via the directing step, the initial IGU solar heat gain coefficient is actuated to an adjusted IGU solar heat gain coefficient.

[0025] In some embodiments, directing further comprises directing at least one of: a first target solar heat gain coefficient to a first electro-optical device and a second target solar heat gain coefficient to a second electro-optical device.

[0026] In some embodiments, directing comprises directing the control signal to a first control device of the first pane and a second control device of the second pane.

[0027] In some embodiments, the method further comprises generating a control signal based on an input from at least one sensor. [0028] In some embodiments, each of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device are configured with a plurality of solar heat gain coefficients.

[0029] In some embodiments, each of the first electro-optical device and the pane and second pane are independently actuatable from each other.

[0030] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured with an initial IGU solar heat gain coefficient, based on a solar heat gain coefficient of the first pane and the solar heat gain coefficient of the second pane.

[0031] In some embodiments, via the adjusting step, the corresponding solar heat gain coefficient of the IGU is adjusted.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal film, and combinations thereof.

[0033] In some embodiments, the method further comprises generating the control signal from a control system, wherein the control system is configured with programmable visual light transmission data for at least one of: the first pane, the second pane, and the IGU based on criterion including at least one of: geographic location; season; hour of day/day vs. night; core user occupancy hours; sensor data, and/or combinations thereof.

[0034] In some embodiments, the method further comprises repeating the directing, actuating, adjusting steps. In some embodiments, the method comprises repeating the sensing and/or generating steps.

[0035] In another aspect, an insulating glazing unit is provided, comprising: a first pane comprising a first electro-optical device, a second pane comprising a second electro- optical device, wherein the second pane is configured in spaced relation from the first pane to define a gap therebetween; a control device, configured to independently control the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device to thereby actuate at least one of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device to thereby adjust at least one of: a first pane visual light transmission state; a second pane visual light transmission state; a first pane solar heat gain coefficient, and a second solar heat gain coefficient; wherein the first pane and the second pane cooperate to provide an corresponding IGU visual light transmission state and IGU solar heat gain coefficient. [0036] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured to provide a high range of dynamic levels: (e.g. (L3/L0)²), while maintaining a bright VLT level, if desired (e.g. LOxLO = 64% VLT)).

[0037] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured to avoid a window cold draft effect in wintertime, while providing a comfortable natural heat radiation in a region (indoor region) adjacent to the inner pane.

[0038] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured to temporarily avoid sun glare for increased comfortable and healthy environment (e.g. U3xU3 = 0.6% VUT).

[0039] In some embodiments, the IGU is configured to provide the optimum energy savings and/or user comfort, whatever the building location, seasons and compass orientation.

[0040] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

[0041] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and are intended to provide an overview or framework to understanding the nature and character of the disclosure as it is claimed.

[0042] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of principles of the disclosure, and are incorporated in, and constitute a part of, this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiment(s) and, together with the description, serve to explain, by way of example, principles and operation of the disclosure. It is to be understood that various features of the disclosure disclosed in this specification and in the drawings can be used in any and all combinations. By way of non-limiting examples, the various features of the disclosure may be combined with one another according to the following aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure are better understood when the following detailed description of the disclosure is read with reference to the accompanying drawings: [0044] Figure 1A through ID provide a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an IGU apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure, each showing different pane configurations for the first pane and second pane.

[0045] As shown in Figures la- Id, there are four example embodiments provided, in which each pane provides multiple levels (4 in this example) of light and NIR absorption from L0 to L3. As shown by the contrast between Fig la, to lb, to lc, to Id, the IGU provides two panes, a first pane and a second pane, were each is configured with an adaptative electro-optical function, configured to change visible light (VLT) and sun energy transmittance (SHGC for Solar Heat Gain Coefficient).

[0046] With reference to Fig la, the IGU is configured with fixed U0 levels on both inner and outer panes.

[0047] Referring to Fig. lb, a summer climate is depicted and only the outer pane is darkened, such that and sun light and Near IR (NIR) that are absorbed by the outer pane are re-emitted outside the building, thus lowering the cooling load of the building.

[0048] Referring to Fig. lc, only the inner pane is darkened, such that Far IR (FIR) waves are absorbed in the inner pane and re-emitted into the building, thus lowering the heating load of the building, while avoiding a cold draft effect.

[0049] Referring to Fig. Id, during inter-seasons (equinox), the outer pane and inner pane darkening can be balanced according to the thermal comfort needed.

[0050] Since the outdoor temperature, sun intensity, daylight varies through-out the day, the seasons, building compass orientation and location, the IGU embodiments detailed herein are configured to adapt to the external conditions, taking advantage of it when it is desirable to do so (e.g. enabling increased VUT and/or SHGC) and protect it when not (e.g. preventing at least one or both of VUT and SHGC).

[0051] Figure 2 depicts a schematic view of an embodiment of insulating glazing unit in accordance with the present disclosure, in electrical communication with a control system, which in turn is optionally configured to communicate with at least one sensor.

[0052] Figure 3, depicts a graph plotting computer modeled data for solar heat gain vs. VUT, as shown for the different configurations of the panes with respect, as set forth in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] Referring to Figure 4, a graph is depicted plotting inner surface temperature of the IGU during winter, shown for various configurations of the panes (e.g. different independent settings for VLT of inner pane and VLT of outer pane of the IGU), as set out in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, example embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various principles of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art, having had the benefit of the present disclosure, that the present disclosure may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from the specific details disclosed herein. Moreover, descriptions of well-known devices, methods and materials may be omitted so as not to obscure the description of various principles of the present disclosure. Finally, wherever applicable, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0055] The embodiments of the present disclosure are detailed to provide tailored, optimum energy savings and comfort based on the building location (geography/climate), season, and/or incident angle of sun irradiation (e.g. compass orientation). The embodiment presents a modular construction that is configurable based on time of day (e.g. day vs. night, irradiation of sun on IGU location); climate; season; privacy preferences of users, incident angle or compass orientation, among other items).

[0056] Figure 1A through ID provide a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an IGU apparatus 20, each showing different configurations for the first pane 30 and second pane 40 to provide a tailored, independently adjustable VLT and SHGC.

[0057] For illustrative purposes, there are four different levels provided in each of the first pane and second pane. As shown in Figures 1A-1D, there are four example embodiments provided, in which each pane provides multiple levels (4 in this example) of light and NIR absorption from L0 to L3. As shown by the contrast between Figure 1A, to Figure IB, to Figure 1C, to Figure ID, the IGU provides two panes, a first pane 30 and a second pane 40, were each is configured with an adaptative electro-optical function, configured to change visible light (VLT) and sun energy transmittance (SHGC for Solar Heat Gain Coefficient).

[0058] With reference to Figure 1A, the IGU is configured with L0 levels on both inner (second) and outer panes (first), such that each of the first and second panes have a VLT% of 80% and SHGC is 0.7 and the IGU has an estimated VLT % of 64% and an estimated SHGC of 0.73. [0059] Referring to Figure IB, a summer climate is depicted and only the outer pane is darkened, such that and sun light and Near IR (NIR) that are absorbed by the outer pane (first pane) are re-emitted outside the building, thus lowering the cooling load of the building. With reference to Figure IB, the IGU is configured with an L3 first pane/LO second pane, such that the first pane has a VLT% of 8% and SHGC is 0.2 and the second pane has a VLT % of 80% and an estimated SHGC of 0.7 and the IGU has an estimated VLT % of 6.4% and an estimated SHGC of 0.21.

[0060] Referring to Figure 1C, only the inner pane is darkened, such that Far IR (FIR) waves are absorbed in the inner pane and re-emitted into the building, thus lowering the heating load of the building, while avoiding a cold draft effect. With reference to Figure 1C, the IGU is configured with an L0 first pane/L3 second pane, such that the first pane has a VLT% of 80% and SHGC is 0.7 and the second pane has a VLT% of 8% and an estimated SHGC of 0.2 and the IGU has an estimated VLT % of 6.4% and an estimated SHGC of 0.54. Note, the VLT of the configuration of Figure 1C is the same as that of the configuration of Figure IB; however, the SHGC is very different (Figure IB: 0.21 vs. Figure 1C: .54). Thus, it’s possible to uniquely tailor the corresponding electro-optical functioning first and second panes to provide improved window performance, based on certain criterion (time of day, geographic location, season, core occupancy hours, among others).

[0061] Referring to Figure ID, during inter-seasons (equinox), the outer pane and inner pane darkening can be balanced according to the thermal comfort needed. With reference to Figure ID, the IGU is configured with LI levels on both inner (second pane) and outer panes (first pane), such that each of the first and second panes have a VLT% of 50% and SHGC is 0.4 and the IGU has an estimated VLT % of 25% and an estimated SHGC of 0.46.

[0062] Figures 1A - ID also depict the first pane 30, second pane 40, and seal, including the seal member 54 and secondary spacer 56 for each of the figures depicted.

[0063] Since the outdoor temperature, sun intensity, daylight varies throughout the day, the seasons, building compass orientation and location, the IGU embodiments detailed herein are configured to adapt to the external conditions, taking advantage of it when it is desirable to do so (e.g. enabling increased VLT and/or SHGC) and protect it when not (e.g. preventing at least one or both of VLT and SHGC). [0064] Figure 2 depicts a schematic view of an embodiment of insulating glazing unit 20, in communication with a control system 60, which in turn is optionally configured to communicate with at least one sensor 62.

As shown in Figure 2, the IGU 20 includes a first pane 30 and a second pane 40, which are retained in spaced relation via a seal 24. The seal 24 can include a spacer 54 and a secondary seal 56. The seal 24, first pane 30 and second pane 40 are retained together via a frame 22. the IGU 20 includes a gap 50 defined between the first pane 30 and the second pane 40, and the gap can be filled with a gas (e.g. insulating gas). One or more of the surfaces of the first pane 30 and second pane 40 may have a coating 64 applied on a portion or over the entire surface thereof. In Figure 2, this is represented by coating 64 depicted on the first surface 36 of the first pane 30. The first pane 30 includes an electro-optical device 32 (or material) and a first electrical connection (configured for control/actuation via a control device) or control device 34. The second pane 40 is similarly configured, with a first surface 46 and second surface 48 of the first pane 40, where the first pane comprises an electro-optical device (or material) and includes a second electrical connection (configured for control/actuation via a control device) or control device 44.

[0065] With reference to the drawings, in one aspect, an insulating glazing unit (IGU) configured as a multi -pane window (e.g. double pane window) is provided. As depicted, both the first pane and the second pane of the IGU are configured with an adaptative electro-optical function capable of changing visible light (VUT) and sun energy transmittance (SHGC for Solar Heat Gain Coefficient). The first pane and the second pane are sealed with a sealing member to provide a defined gap therebetween (e.g. insulating gas, air, Ar, or other combinations can be retained in the defined gap). The first pane is configured as an outer glass pane (e.g. facing the outdoors), and the second pane is configured as an inner glass pane (e.g. facing an interior of a building or enclosure). Each of the first pane and second pane is configured with electrical actuation separate from each other (e.g. with the same or different voltage source and/or power source). In some embodiments, each pane is configured with independent operation of at least one criterion (e.g. visible light transmission and solar heat gain coefficient, among others).

[0066] In some embodiments, the adaptive electro-optical glazing includes, without limitation: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, and a liquid crystal film/device. In some embodiments, the adaptive electro-optical glazing is adjustable to provide tailored tuning of VLT and SHGC. In some embodiments, the IGU allows for IGU pane condition to control sun glare and/or gain, while maintaining the outside view of the building.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the IGU is configured to reversibly adapt electro- optical performances in each of its panes, while the IGU is in a static position (e.g. not moved after installation). In some embodiments, the IGU is tailored to provide adjustable performance (e.g. in terms of VUT and/or SHGC) based on performance parameters (e.g. seasons condition), thus reducing heating and/or cooling costs, and power usage related to artificial lighting energy, while maintaining low glare and view from the IGU.

[0068] In some embodiments, when direct sun hits the glazing and/or to prevent uncomfortable sun glare from occurring, both the outer pane and the inner pane are configured to darken simultaneously (e.g. to reach a lower VUT level). In some embodiments, each electro-optical film (e.g. of the first pane and/or second pane) can be spatially zoned (pixelized) to optimize indoor shaded areas to tailored regions (e.g. only where desired, workstation(s) or seating area(s)).

[0069] In some embodiments, in order to minimize heat transfer by conduction or convection between outer and inner pane, the global thermal transfer of the IGU (i.e. U-value) is configured to be low (e.g.l: <1.5 W/m²/K, e.g. 2: < 1 W/m²/K; e.g. 3: <0.7 W/m²/K). In some embodiments, the defined gap between the first pane and the second pane is configured to retain a low thermal conductive gas (e.g. Argon, Krypton, mixtures thereof, or vacuum). In some embodiments, the IGU comprise multi -pane assemblies comprising a triple pane (three panes), a quadruple pane (four panes) or more. In some embodiments, one or more surfaces of the first pane and second pane are configured with low emissivity coatings (e.g. outer surface, inner surface, and/or gap-facing surfaces).

Example: Computer Modeling Performance Parameters

[0070] Additional computer simulations were completed to evaluate the simulated solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and glass surface temperatures (surface facing the interior/inside of the building, in °C) for the tint conditions of Figure 1. The models were completed on modeling software WINDOW 7 by Uawrence Berkley National Uaboratory.

[0071]

[0072] The reference configuration (Figure 1 A) has a high SHGC, which results in window interior that is hot to the touch and high air conditioning costs in summer. Being able to tint the outer pane (as with Figure IB) minimizes glare, lowers SHGC (and hence cooling costs), and leaves the glass surface cooler in summer. However, the glass surface can become uncomfortably cool in winter. Thus, the use of independent tinting on the inner pane (Figure 1C) restores the Solar heat gain to offset heating costs and raises the glass surface temperature to improve comfort.

[0073] Depending on the tint configurations on the two panes of the IGU, the SHGC can be improved by as much as 4X, and the interior surface temperatures of the IGU are adjustable, tailored by season/as needed, so that they can be raised/lowered by 24 °C in winter/summer.

[0074] Referring to Figure 3, a graph is depicted plotting computer modeled data for solar heat gain vs. VLT, as shown for the different configurations of the panes with respect, set independently from each other. Having the ability to tint the two panes independently enables tailored energy consumption based on IGU parameters, thereby enabling a reduction in energy consumption. As shown in Figure 3, the SHGC is determined primarily by outer pane VUT. To get a high SHGC in the IGU, the first pane is tailored with a high VUT on the outer pane. However, to block sunlight to reduce glare, by leaving the outer pane clear and tinting the inner pane it is possible to tailor the IGU to obtain both low VUT and high SHGC. [0075] Referring to Figure 4, a graph is depicted plotting inner surface temperature of the IGU during winter, shown for various configurations of the panes (e.g. different independent settings for VLT of inner pane and VLT of outer pane of the IGU). Utilizing one or more of the present embodiments provides an IGU and operation parameters for tailoring IGU performance (by independently varying tinting the two panes) and improving building occupant comfort the ability to tint the two panes independently is a method for improving occupant thermal comfort. Ueaving the outer pane clear and tinting the inner pane also increases temperatures on the inner surface of the window. Cold window surfaces can contribute to drafts and room cooling and can also reduce comfort of occupants by making them feel cold.

[0076] Addition of low emissivity coatings can further improve thermal comfort of occupants. Referring to Figure 1A, calculated wintertime temperatures on the inner surface of the window are 16 °C and 7 °C, respectively. The presence of a low emissivity (e = 0.035) coating on the outer or inner pane improves the overall thermal insulation of the window and increases the nighttime temperature on the inner surface of the window to 13 °C. Placement of the coating on the outer pane increases the daytime temperature to 19 °C, whereas placement of the coating on the inner pane increases the daytime temperature to 27 °C. Without being bound by any particular mechanism or theory, it’s believed that placement of a low emissivity coating on the inner pane of the window is therefore preferred for cold climates/seasons where low temperatures on the inner surface of the window are undesirable.

[0077] Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure without departing substantially from the spirit and various principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

Claims: What is claimed is:

1. An insulating glazing unit, comprising: a. a first pane comprising a first electro-optical device, b. a first control device, wherein the first control device is configured to control the first electro-optical device to thereby actuate the first electro-optical device to a first pane visual light transmission state selected from a plurality of visual light transmission states; c. a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device, wherein the second pane is configured in spaced relation from the first pane to define a gap therebetween; and d. a second control device, wherein the second control device is configured to control the second electro-optical device to thereby actuate the second electro- optical device to a second pane visual light transmission state selected from a plurality of visual light transmission states, e. wherein the first pane visual light transmission state and the second pane visual light transmission state cooperate to provide an IGU visual light transmission state.

2. The IGU of claim 1, wherein the first control device and second control device operate independent of each other.

3. The IGU of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first pane and second pane are configurable with varying corresponding visual light transmission states.

4. The IGU of any preceding claims, wherein the first pane, second pane and seal cooperate to form a sealed gap therebetween.

5. The IGU of claim 4, wherein the IGU has a gas retained in the gap.

6. The IGU of claim 5, wherein the gas is an insulating gas.

7. The IGU of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first pane and second pane comprise a coating on at least one of: a. a first surface of the first pane; b. a second surface of the first pane; c. a first surface of the second pane; d. a second surface of the second pane, e. and combinations thereof.

8. The IGU of claim 7, wherein the coating is selected from the group consisting of: a low emissivity coating, an anti-reflective coating; a tinted coating; an easy clean coating; an anti-bird strike coating, and/or combinations thereof.

9. The IGU of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal fdm, and combinations thereof.

10. A method, comprising: a. directing a control signal to an insulating glazing unit (IGU) having at least two panes, wherein the first pane comprises a first electro-optical device configured to provide the first pane with a first visual light transmission state and a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device configured to provide the second pane with a second visual light transmission state, b. actuating at least one of the first electro-optical device and second electro- optical device based on the control signal c. adjusting at least one of the first visual light transmission state and the second visual light transmission state to transform at least one of the first pane and the second pane to at least one adjusted visual light transmission state, d. wherein via the directing step, the initial IGU visual light transmission state is actuated to an adjusted IGU visual light transmission state.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein directing further comprises directing at least one of: a first target visual light transmission state to a first electro-optical device and a second target visual light transmission state to a second electro-optical device.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein directing comprises directing the control signal to a first control device of the first pane and a second control device of the second pane.

13. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises generating a control signal based on an input from at least one sensor.

14. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device are configured with a plurality of visual light transmission states.

15. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first electro-optical device and the pane and second pane are independently actuatable from each other.

16. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the IGU is configured with an initial IGU visual light transmission state, based on a visual light transmission state of the first pane and the visual light transmission state of the second pane.

17. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein via the adjusting step, the corresponding visual light transmission state of the IGU is adjusted.

18. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal film, and combinations thereof.

19. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising generating the control signal from a control system, wherein the control system is configured with programmable visual light transmission data for at least one of: the first pane, the second pane, and the IGU based on criterion including at least one of: geographic location; season; hour of day/day vs. night; core user occupancy hours; sensor data, and/or combinations thereof.

20. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises repeating steps a - c.

21. A method, comprising: a. directing a control signal to an insulating glazing unit (IGU) having at least two panes, wherein the first pane comprises a first electro-optical device configured to provide the first pane with a first solar heat gain coefficient and a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device configured to provide the second pane with a second solar heat gain coefficient, b. actuating at least one of the first electro-optical device and second electro- optical device based on the control signal c. adjusting at least one of the first solar heat gain coefficient and the second solar heat gain coefficient to transform at least one of the first pane and the second pane to at least one adjusted solar heat gain coefficient, d. wherein via the directing step, the initial IGU solar heat gain coefficient is actuated to an adjusted IGU solar heat gain coefficient.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein directing further comprises directing at least one of: a first target solar heat gain coefficient to a first electro-optical device and a second target solar heat gain coefficient to a second electro-optical device.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein directing comprises directing the control signal to a first control device of the first pane and a second control device of the second pane.

24. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises generating a control signal based on an input from at least one sensor.

25. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device are configured with a plurality of solar heat gain coefficients.

26. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first electro-optical device and the pane and second pane are independently actuatable from each other.

27. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the IGU is configured with an initial IGU solar heat gain coefficient, based on a solar heat gain coefficient of the first pane and the solar heat gain coefficient of the second pane.

28. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein via the adjusting step, the corresponding solar heat gain coefficient of the IGU is adjusted.

29. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electro-optical device and second electro-optical device are each selected from the group consisting of: an electrochromic device, a suspended particle device, a liquid crystal device, a liquid crystal film, and combinations thereof.

30. The method of any of the preceding claims, further comprising generating the control signal from a control system, wherein the control system is configured with programmable visual light transmission data for at least one of: the first pane, the second pane, and the IGU based on criterion including at least one of: geographic location; season; hour of day/day vs. night; core user occupancy hours; sensor data, and/or combinations thereof.

31. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises repeating steps a - c.

32. An insulating glazing unit, comprising: a. a first pane comprising a first electro-optical device, b. a second pane comprising a second electro-optical device, wherein the second pane is configured in spaced relation from the first pane to define a gap therebetween; c. a control device, configured to independently control the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device to thereby actuate at least one of the first electro-optical device and the second electro-optical device to thereby adjust at least one of: a first pane visual light transmission state; a second pane visual light transmission state; a first pane solar heat gain coefficient, and a second solar heat gain coefficient; d. wherein the first pane and the second pane cooperate to provide a corresponding IGU visual light transmission state and IGU solar heat gain coefficient.