Internet of things-enabled smart controller for polymer dispersed liquid crystals films

Abstract

The evolvement of smart glass technology has gained a lot of interest through its energy-saving potential as one of the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. This paper focuses on polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film, a smart glazing film that changes its opacity in response to an electrical impulse. The power consumption of the smart film is considerably small. However, improper handling of the smart film such as not turning off the film after usage can lead to energy wastage. Hence, connecting the smart film to an internet of things (IoT) controller would be one of the possible solutions to ensure that the film is maintained properly. The objective of the work here is to develop a smart, low cost and efficient IoT-enabled smart controller for PDLC films with energy-saving features. In pursuance of materializing this concept, this paper delineates the design of a smart controller for the PDLC films. The implementation of the IoT features, NodeMCU, and environmental sensors enabled the smart film to be capable of switching automatically. In addition, voice-command features were also incorporated into the controller. With the successful development of the IoT smart controller, the PDLC films can operate autonomously and wirelessly.