Research Frontiers Inc.

Albert P Malvino

Robert L Saxe

Joseph M Harary

Methods and circuits for distributing power to suspended-particle-device (SPD) film products including SPD windows, SPD shades, and other SPD products, which are referred to generally as SPD loads. A driving voltage derived from a primary power source is provided to an SPD load by backbone wiring which carries a low AC or DC voltage derived from the primary power source, and a conversion stage which converts the low voltage to an AC driving voltage which is then supplied to the SPD load.

Methods and circuits for distributing power to SPD loads

A voltage controlling device includes an AC terminal receiving an AC voltage signal, a voltage dividing device adapted to divide the AC voltage signal into a plurality of distinct voltage signals within a predetermined range, a controller adapted to control the voltage dividing device to provide a selected voltage level based on voltage level information and an SPD terminal for providing the selected voltage level to a suspended particle device. Voltage level information may be provided via an input device and/or from a photocell that monitors a light level at the suspended particle device. A separate AC power supply may also be provided. The controller may also monitor an SPD load voltage to control the voltage level provided to the SPD terminal in order to prevent shocking of a user.

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Corpus Christi, TX, United States of America

Albert P Malvino