Door and system for controlling internet of things (IOT) devices and method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a door or door system comprising one or more doors configured with wireless power transfer system transmitters and / or receivers to power smart doors and / or peripheral wireless electric devices, and optionally wireless data transmitters and / or receivers.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 294,938, filed on December 30, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to exterior or interior doors and door systems for residential or commercial buildings (such as for a residence, apartment, condominium, hotel room, or business). Specifically, the door or door system provides electrical power and control to an electrical device that is connected to the door or door system via a network. The present invention also relates to a method of providing electrical power and control to an electrical device connected to the door or door system, such electrical device being operable over a network (such as via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.). Background Art

[0004] A typical existing exterior or interior door for a residential or commercial building may have one or more electrical devices (or components) mounted to the door in order to provide desired functionality, such as electronic access control, door status feedback, entry cameras and audio communications, electric door latches, electric door locks, etc. In addition, the exterior and interior door market has seen an increasing adoption of additional electrical devices, including video doorbells, smart locks, LED lighting, smart glass, electromechanical door closers, wireless connected electronics, etc. Each of these discrete electrical devices is an add-on to an existing door, works with the existing door structure, and is powered solely by at least one battery that needs to be periodically replaced or recharged. If the battery is not replaced or recharged, the electrical device will not operate.

[0005] Current electrical devices are mounted to exterior or interior doors or hardwired thereto in a manner that may be unattractive and aesthetically pleasing. They typically each have one or more rechargeable battery packs or at least one non-rechargeable battery that must be periodically replaced or swapped out and have some type of weatherproof housing.

[0006] The Internet of Things (IoT) is a system of interconnected devices connected by a network that can transfer data without human interaction. A device can be a computer, mechanical machine, digital machine, or electrical device that can be assigned an Internet Protocol (IP) address and can transfer data over a network.

[0007] The present disclosure recognizes the need for a door or system of doors that is configured to communicate over a network to wirelessly provide reliable power and control to IoT devices (such as lights, cameras, sensors, locks, etc.) connected to the network. Summary of the invention

[0008] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a door or system of doors configured with a wireless power transfer system transmitter and / or receiver to power a smart door and / or peripheral wireless power devices and optionally a wireless data transmitter and / or receiver.

[0009] In an exemplary aspect, the present disclosure describes at least a first door, the first door including a first door panel having a front door skin or facing and a rear door skin or facing attached to a door frame or a portion of a door frame, at least one hinge or hanging rail attachment, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit power from a WPTS power source. In an exemplary aspect, the system also includes at least a second door, the second door including a door panel having a front door skin or facing and a rear door skin or facing attached to a door frame or a portion of a door frame, at least one hinge or hanging rail attachment, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) receiver configured to wirelessly receive power from the WPTS transmitter of the first door.

[0010] Exemplary aspects provide various configurations for wireless power (and optionally data) transfer between doors or IOT devices, where at least one door acts as a repeater or transmitter. The door may also act as a gateway; or an external electrically connected device may provide initial WPTS transmission and / or data connection (e.g., Internet connection).

[0011] The details of one or more aspects of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the techniques described in the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings, together with the general description given above and the detailed description of exemplary embodiments and methods given below, provide details of exemplary embodiments within the present disclosure. In such drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 is an elevational exterior view of an exemplary door system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 It is the interior elevation view of the door system;

[0015] Figure 3 is an elevational view of a door system of the present invention without an outer door skin to allow viewing of the interior of the door;

[0016] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary network system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 5 is a flow chart showing details of components of an exemplary gateway door and an exemplary IoT device and their communication paths according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 and shows the details of the components of the repeater door and the IoT device and their communication paths;

[0019] Figure 7 is another flow chart illustrating components of an exemplary gateway door and an exemplary IoT device and details of their communication and wireless power paths according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 8 is another flow chart illustrating components of an exemplary repeater door and an exemplary IoT device and details of their communication and wireless power paths according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating components of an exemplary gateway door and an exemplary IoT device and details of their communication and wireless power paths according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig.10 is another flow chart illustrating components of an exemplary repeater gate and an exemplary IoT device and details of their communication and wireless power paths according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0023] Fig.11 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of an exemplary system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments and exemplary methods as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings. It should be noted, however, that the invention in its broader aspects is not necessarily limited to the specific details, representative materials and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments and exemplary methods.

[0025] This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the specification, relative terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally", "vertically", "downward", "upward", etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation shown in the drawings being described or discussed at the time and relative to the vehicle body. These relative terms are for convenience of description and are generally not intended to require a specific orientation. Terms related to attachment, coupling, etc. (such as "connect" and "interconnect") refer to a relationship in which structures are fixed or attached to each other directly or indirectly through intermediate structures, as well as removable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless otherwise expressly stated. The term "operably connected" is such an attachment, coupling or connection that allows the related structures to operate as intended according to the relationship. The term "integral" (or "unified") refers to a part made as a single part, or a part made of separate parts that are fixed (i.e., non-removable) and connected together. Additionally, the terms "a" and "an" as used in the claims mean "at least one," and the term "two" as used in the claims means "at least two."

[0026] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A door system 10, such as a pre-hung door, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, the door system 10 includes a conventional hinged residential interior door assembly 11, but it should be understood that the door assembly 11 can be a pivotally mounted exterior door assembly or interior door assembly provided for a residential or commercial building (such as a house, an apartment, a garage, an apartment house, a hotel, an office building, etc.). The door assembly 11 can be made of any suitable material (such as wood, metal, wood composites, glass fiber reinforced polymer composites, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the door assembly 11 includes a substantially rectangular door frame 12 and a door 14 pivotally attached thereto by at least one hinge 161 (such as a "butt hinge" including two leaves). In an exemplary embodiment, the door system 10 is an electric door system, such as disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application serial number 17 / 142,759, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the frame assembly 12 includes a first parallel spaced apart vertically extending jamb member 121 and a second parallel spaced apart vertically extending jamb member 122 and a horizontally extending upper jamb track member or cap 12c connecting the upper ends of the first jamb member 121 and the second jamb member 122. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the lower ends of the jamb members 121, 122 may be connected to the door sill 12. t interconnection.

[0028] In a further exemplary aspect, at least one hinge 161 pivotally attaches the door 14 to the first jamb member 121. Typically, at least two hinges 161 and 162 are provided to secure the door 14 to the first jamb member 121. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As best shown, three hinges 161, 162, 163 are used to secure the door 14 to the frame assembly 12. For simplicity, the following discussion will sometimes use the reference numeral 16 without a subscript number to refer to the entire hinge group. For example, when referring to hinges 161, 162, and 163 collectively, the reference numeral 16 will sometimes be used.

[0029] The door 14 shown includes a rectangular inner door frame 20, an outer door skin (or facing) 23 fixed to opposite sides of the inner door frame 20, and an inner door skin (or facing) 24. As used herein, "outer" indicates the side of the door facing away from the room or house; and "inner" indicates the side of the door 14 facing the interior of the room or house. The outer door skin 23 and the inner door skin 24 are formed separately from each other and are generally identical in appearance. The door skins 23 and 24 are typically adhesively fixed to opposite sides of a suitable core and / or inner door frame 20, such that the inner door frame 20 is sandwiched between the outer door skin 23 and the inner door skin 24. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer door skin 23 and the inner door skin 24 are made of polymer-based composite materials (such as sheet molding compound ("SMC") or medium density fiberboard (MDF)), other wood composite materials, fiber reinforced polymers (such as fiberglass, hardboard, fiberboard, steel and other thermoplastic materials). The door 14 has a hinge side 14H mounted to the inner door frame 20 by hinges 16 and a horizontally opposing latch side 14L.

[0030] The inner door frame 20 shown includes a pair of parallel and spaced horizontally extending top rails 211 and bottom rails 212, and a pair of parallel and spaced vertically extending first and second stiles 221 and 222, which are generally made of wood or engineered wood (such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL)). The top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212 extend horizontally between the first and second stiles 221 and 222. In addition, the top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212 can be fixedly fixed to the first and second stiles 221 and 222, such as by adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The inner door frame 20 may also include a middle rail 21 3， like Figures 3 to 5 2. The middle rail 213 extends horizontally and is spaced apart from the top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212, respectively, and is also typically made of wood or engineered wood, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL). In addition, the middle rail 213 can be fixedly secured to the first stile 221 and the second stile 222. The hinge 16 is secured to the first stile 221, which defines the hinge stile of the inner door frame 20. The door 14 can also include a protective cover 19 made of a composite material, such as Figure 4 In particular, the protective cover 19 may be made of polyvinyl chloride or other weather-resistant polymers. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the door 14 also includes a vertically extending inner stile 223 adjacent and horizontally spaced from the second stile 222 to define an open vertical channel 25 therebetween. The inner stile 223 may also be made of wood or engineered wood such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL).

[0031] The inner door frame 20 and the outer door skin 23 and the inner door skin 24 of the typical door are shown to surround an inner cavity, which can be hollow or can be filled with, for example, corrugated pads, foam insulation or other core materials, as desired. Therefore, the door 14 can include a core 15 disposed in the inner door frame 20 between the outer door skin 23 and the inner door skin 24. The core 15 can be formed of a foam insulation material (such as a polyurethane foam material, a cellulose material and an adhesive resin, a corrugated pad, etc.). The frame assembly 12 includes a first parallel and spaced-apart vertically extending side column member 121 and a second parallel and spaced-apart vertically extending side column member 122 and a horizontally extending upper side column member or top cover 12c, which connects the upper ends of the first side column member 121 and the second side column member 122. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the lower ends of the side column members 121, 122 can be extended through the door sill 12 t interconnection.

[0032] At least one hinge 161 is shown to pivotally attach the door 14 to the first side column member 121. In an exemplary embodiment, at least two hinges 161 and 162 are provided to secure the door 14 to the first side column member 121. Preferably, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As best shown, three hinges 161, 162, 163 are used to secure the door 14 to the frame assembly 12. For simplicity, the following discussion will sometimes use the reference numeral 16 without a subscript number to refer to the entire hinge group. For example, when referring to hinges 161, 162, and 163 collectively, the reference numeral 16 will sometimes be used.

[0033] The door 14 shown includes a rectangular inner door frame 20, a first (or outer) door skin (or facing) 23 fixed to opposite sides of the inner door frame 20, and a second (or inner) door skin (or facing) 24. In a further exemplary embodiment, the first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24 are formed separately from each other. The door skins 23, 24 are typically adhesively fixed to the opposite sides of a suitable core and / or the inner door frame 20, such that the inner door frame 20 is sandwiched between the first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24. Typically, the first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24 are made of polymer-based composite materials such as sheet molding compound ("SMC") or medium density fiberboard (MDF), other wood composite materials, fiber reinforced polymers such as fiberglass, hardboard, fiberboard, steel and other thermoplastic materials. The door 14 has a hinge side 14H mounted to the inner door frame 20 by a hinge 16 and a horizontally opposite latch side 14L.

[0034] The inner door frame 20 includes a pair of parallel and spaced horizontally extending top rails 211 and bottom rails 212, and a pair of parallel and spaced vertically extending first and second stiles 221 and 222, which are generally made of wood or engineered wood (such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL)). The top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212 extend horizontally between the first and second stiles 221 and 222. In addition, the top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212 can be fixedly fixed to the first and second stiles 221 and 222, such as by adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The inner door frame 20 may also include an intermediate rail. The intermediate rail extends horizontally and is spaced apart from the top rail 211 and the bottom rail 212, respectively, and is also generally made of wood or engineered wood (such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL)). In addition, the intermediate rail can be fixedly fixed to the first and second stiles 221 and 222. The hinge 16 is fixed to a first stile 221 which defines a hinge stile of the inner door frame 20 .

[0035] The inner door frame 20 of a typical door and the first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24 surround the inner cavity 15, which can be hollow or filled with, for example, corrugated pads, foam insulation or other core materials as desired. Therefore, the door 14 can include a core disposed in the inner door frame 20 between the first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24. The core can be formed of foam insulation materials such as polyurethane foam, cellulose materials and adhesive resins, corrugated pads, etc. The first door skin 23 and the second door skin 24 can be identical in appearance and can be flat or flush, or have one or more paneled portions.

[0036] In the exemplary embodiments described herein and with reference to Figure 4, when one or several doors 141, 142, 143 are installed in a residential or commercial building, they can connect and communicate with each other via the wireless network system 100. Herein, subscripts are used after the figure label to indicate more than one of the same element. One of the doors 141 is connected to the Internet 106, such as via a Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection, and acts as an Internet gateway, while the other doors 142, 143 are not connected to the Internet (although it is contemplated that they could be connected to the Internet), for example, but communicate wirelessly with each other and with door 141, and act as repeaters within the network system 100. Hereinafter, door 141 is referred to as a gateway door, while the other doors 142, 143 are referred to as repeater doors (again, note that such "repeater doors" may also have some kind of Internet connection). Although Figure 4 Two repeater doors 142, 143 are shown, but those skilled in the art will recognize after reviewing this specification that additional repeater doors may be present. In addition, there may be several doors in a building that act as gateways, and in some cases, all doors may act as gateways and none may act as repeaters.

[0037] The network system 100 may include one or more IoT electrical devices 1021, 1022 that wirelessly communicate with one or more of the doors 141, 142, 143. The IoT device 102 may be a light (such as an LED light), a sensor (such as a smoke sensor or a motion sensor), a camera, a door operator for opening / closing a door, a lock, a computer, a television, an audio / video device for remote conferencing, a heating / air conditioning unit, a fan, an air purifier, etc. In an exemplary aspect, the doors 141, 142, 143 are configured to provide wireless power to the IoT device 102, communicate with the IoT device, and / or control the IoT device. Without limitation, certain exemplary IoT devices may be located at any position relative to the doors described herein (e.g., within one or more doors), as a stand-alone device, as part of other home or commercial devices, and so on. The gateway door 141, the repeater doors 142, 143, and the IoT devices 1021, 1022 together form the IoT network 108. Although Figure 4 Three doors 141, 142, 143 and two IoT devices 1021, 1022 are shown, but any number of doors 14 and IoT devices 102 can reside on the network system 100. Importantly, the network system 100 has only a single gateway door 141 and several repeater doors 142, 143, which allows the network system 100 to operate at a lower cost and consume less energy.

[0038] In some cases, more than one gateway door 141 may be used, such as when the building is large, walls (e.g., constructed of metal) impede wireless communication or power delivery, there are many IoT devices on the network system, or there is high latency in the system. Several factors may influence the decision of whether to set up multiple gateway doors 141: the number of devices connected to each door, system latency, door-to-door distance, and the physical medium between each door (e.g., metal walls). The network system 100 may also include a remote device 104 having a hardware and software platform for electronically communicating with the gateway door 141. The remote device 104 may be a smartphone, smart watch, or tablet associated with a user (such as a homeowner, building manager, system administrator, etc.). Figure 4 As shown, the remote device 104 can communicate wirelessly with the gateway 141 via the Internet 106. Figure 4 One remote device 104 is shown in FIG. 1 , but more than one device 104 may be used if more than one user is authorized. Authorized users may use the remote device 104 to configure the IoT network 108 with preferences, security features, and the like.

[0039] The network system 100 includes a gateway door 141, one or more repeater doors 142, 143, one or more IoT devices 1001, 1002, and one or more remote devices 104. The doors 141, 142, 143 serve as power and Internet connections to the IoT devices 100. Each of the doors 141, 142, 143 is wired to the mains (120V AC) of the home / building and is connected to the Internet 106 directly via Ethernet or Wi-Fi (gateway door 141) or indirectly (repeater doors 142, 143). The doors 141, 142, 143 also have several radios for implementing various IoT protocols (such as Wi-Fi, Matter, Thread, Zigbee, Zwave, and Bluetooth). Because the network system 100 is connected to the cloud (i.e., the Internet), mobile applications and / or web applications present on the remote device 104 can be used to remotely control and configure the network system 100, and therefore remotely control and configure the device 102.

[0040] Multiple doors 141, 142, 143 can be linked together via the network system 100, where one (or more) door 141 can act as a gateway door (i.e., connected to the Internet), while the other doors 142, 143 only have radios for the network system 100 and thus act as IoT repeaters. When multiple doors are present, the IoT device 102 can receive power and / or connectivity from any door. The door that provides the most efficient energy transfer and / or connectivity can be used (usually the closest door, with no intervening interference). The IoT device 102 can be manually configured to a specific room / area, so when a specific room is not in use (therefore all devices in that room need to be turned off), the IoT device 102 is still allowed to be completely turned off / on, while still allowing optimal performance (i.e., energy transfer and connectivity) that may require the IoT device to receive power / connection from a door located in an adjacent room.

[0041] Figures 5 and 6 Schematic diagram showing a gateway door 141, a repeater door 142 or 143, and IoT devices 1021, 1022. Figure 5 As shown, the gateway door 141 includes the following components: an AC to DC power converter 200, an IoT gateway 202, a controller 204, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) transmitter 206. These components may be partially or fully located within the inner cavity 15 of the door 141, within the door jamb 12, or connected thereto. In other exemplary embodiments, a WPTS transmitter is provided as a plug-in device (e.g., provided as a 120V plug-in module) close to the gateway door for wireless power / communication, and wireless power is provided to the door from an external WPTS transmitter (via a WPTS receiver 306 installed in the door). Exemplary plug-in devices include those configured to be plugged into a wall socket, a ceiling light fixture, a free-standing light or other fixture, an electric track, etc. In addition, data communications (e.g., in addition to the gateway door, or as an alternative to the gateway door, an Internet connection can be made via the plug-in device (in the latter case, making the gateway door similar to a repeater door)).

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the AC to DC power converter 200 converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) used by the components on the door 141. The converter 200 is electrically connected to a high voltage AC (such as 110 (or 120) V AC) power source 60. The AC power source 60 can be a standard 120 (or 110) volt universal AC power source, known as grid power, wall power, or household power in the United States. Other voltages, such as 220 volts, can also be used. As needed, the converter 200 rectifies the AC power from the power source 60 to DC for use by the IoT gateway 202, the controller 204, and the WPTS transmitter 206. Many IoT devices operate at 5 volts DC, and the converter 200 allows appropriate power to be provided to each of these devices and allows the power to be used for each of these devices.

[0043] The IoT gateway 202 bridges the IoT network 108 with the Internet 106 and communicates with the IoT device 102 and the repeater gate 142 and / or 143. The IoT gateway 202 is connected to the Internet via an Ethernet connection (wired connection) or Wi-Fi (wireless connection). The IoT gateway 202 is also wirelessly connected to the repeater gate 142 and / or 143 using a standard IoT protocol (such as Wi-Fi, Matter, Thread, Zigbee, Zwave, Bluetooth, proprietary RF, or a combination thereof).

[0044] The controller 204 provides control logic to the WPTS transmitter 206 and the IoT gateway 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 204 provides two main controls. First, the controller 204 communicates with the remote device 104 via the Internet 106 to allow the user to turn one or more of the IoT devices 102 on or off by enabling or disabling the WPTS transmitter 206 to one or more IoT devices 102. Second, the controller communicates with one or more occupancy sensors (located in / on the door system or remotely as one of the IoT devices 102) to automatically enable or disable the WPTS transmitter 206 to certain IoT devices 102 (e.g., IoT lights) to turn those IoT devices on or off. In this way, lights, etc. can be operated only when necessary, and turning off lights, etc. when not needed can save power. Rules for automatic activation / deactivation of the WPTS transmitter 206 can be pre-set by the user via the remote device 104 and saved to the cloud. The rules can be established when the remote device 104 is initially set up by the user.

[0045] The WPTS transmitter 206 can be used to wirelessly transmit electrical power to the IoT device 102. Power is provided to the WPTS transmitter 206 by the converter 200. In general, Figure 5As shown, the WPTS includes a power transmitter 206, a transmitting antenna 208 operatively connected to the power transmitter 206, a WPTS receiver 306, and a receiving antenna 308 operatively connected to the WPTS receiver 306. As used herein, an "antenna" may be a coil that generates / receives a magnetic field, a metal plate that generates / receives an electric field, a metal rod that radiates / receives radio waves, or a laser that generates / receives light. The WPTS transmitter 206 and the transmitting antenna 208 are located on the gateway door 141 and the repeater door, while the WPTS receiver 306 and the receiving antenna 308 are located on the IoT device 102.

[0046] In addition to having power converter 200 / 400, WPTS transmitter 206 / 406 and transmit antenna 208 / 408, the gateway gate and repeater gate can be configured to receive only wireless power, thereby replacing these components (such as IoT device 102) with only a WPTS receiver and receive antenna. For example, Figure 7 and Figure 8 Additional exemplary gateway gate configurations and repeater gate configurations are generally shown at 700 and 800, respectively. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the WPTS receiver 706 and antenna 708 are disposed on or within the door (e.g., between the door skins), and wireless power is generally received at 712 at the WPTS receiver 706. Figure 7 , communication with the wireless IoT network via the IoT gateway 202 is generally shown at 716. Figure 8 , generally indicated at 718 via Figure 8 The IoT repeater 402 in the communication with the wireless IoT network. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Also shown at 710 is an internal (or door attached) battery.

[0047] The doors can also be equipped with both a WPTS transmitter and a WPTS receiver and their associated antennas, allowing them to "relay" wireless energy. Both gateway doors and repeater doors can be configured to relay wireless energy. These relay doors can also be configured to receive different types of wireless energy than what they relay. For example, a door can receive infrared energy and relay (i.e., transmit) RF energy. Reference is made to co-pending U.S. patent application serial number 17 / 951,737, entitled "Door Assembly Having Rechargeable Battery, Methods and System for Charging the Battery," filed on September 23, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference for describing exemplary techniques and processes for wireless power transfer.

[0048] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Additional exemplary gateway gate configurations and repeater gate configurations are shown at 900 and 1000, respectively, each showing receiving wireless power from a gate and transmitting wireless power. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the WPTS receiver 706 and antenna 708 are disposed on or within the door (e.g., between the door skins), and wireless power is generally received at 712 at the WPTS receiver 706, and wireless power is generally transmitted at 714 via the WPTS transmitter 206 and antenna 208 disposed on or within the door (e.g., between the door skins). Fig. 9 , communication with the wireless IoT network via the IoT gateway 202 is generally shown at 716. Fig.10 , generally indicated at 718 via Figure 8 The IoT repeater 402 in the communication with the wireless IoT network. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Also shown at 710 is an internal (or door attached) battery.

[0049] According to the exemplary embodiments provided above, for example, referring to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The illustrated receiving wireless power from a door and transmitting wireless power, a "Do It Yourself" (DIY) system may include one or more doors that are easily installed and configured as needed for the installation. For example, an RF transmitter may transmit wireless power from a door to a device that is outside the IR line of sight; or, if the intended targets (other doors or separate IoT devices) are all within the line of sight of a particular transmitter, the transmitter may be installed to utilize an IR transmitter. Similarly, an RF receiver may be used for any transmission requirement that is not within the line of sight / not suitable for IR. Examples of this include, but are not limited to: an IR receiver and IR transmitter located in the same door, an IR receiver and RF transmitter located in the same door; an RF receiver and IR transmitter located in the same door; an RF receiver and IR transmitter located in the same door; or multiple receivers and / or transmitters located in the same door (any of which may operate in different mediums, such as IR and RF, etc.). Thus, doors (and components of gateway doors or repeater doors) may be selected for installation as needed to meet wireless power (and IoT network) needs specific to certain rooms or a series of rooms.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the WPTS transmitter 206 converts the power from the converter 200 into a time-varying electromagnetic field. The WPTS transmitter 206 and the WPTS receiver 306 on the IoT device 102 cooperate to transmit the time-varying electromagnetic field to the WPTS receiver 306 via the antenna 208 on the WPTS transmitter 206 and the antenna 308 on the WPTS receiver 300, respectively. In turn, the WPTS receiver 306 receives the time-varying electromagnetic field and converts it into a DC current to be used by the IoT device 102. Several technologies may be used to implement WPTS: inductive coupling (power is transferred using electromagnetic induction between coils through a magnetic field); resonant inductive coupling (a form of inductive coupling in which power is transferred through a magnetic field between two resonant circuits (tuned circuits), one in the transmitter and one in the receiver); capacitive coupling (power is transferred using an electric field for transferring power between two electrodes (anode and cathode), forming a capacitor for transferring power); magnetodynamic coupling (power transfer between two rotating armatures, one in the transmitter and one in the receiver, which rotate synchronously, coupled together by magnetic fields generated by magnets on the armatures); and microwave (power is transferred via radio waves having short wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, typically in the microwave range); light waves; or a combination thereof. In one technology, the WPTS transmitter 206 generates a radio frequency (RF) power signal and transmits the RF power signal to the WPTS receiver 306 through the transmit antenna 208 and the receive antenna 308. The WPTS receiver 306 receives the input RF power signal and converts it (not limited to, for example, 9 meters or more from the transmitting antenna) into an electric current to power the IoT device. As already described herein, other contemplated processes use infrared (IR) processes that enable transmission at distances of 20 meters or more from the transmitting source (or indeed at any distance with line of sight) without limitation. In this way, the role of the door (or window, etc.) itself can be transformed from the traditional role to that of a wireless power source.

[0051] The placement of the transmit antenna 208 required for the WPTS transmitter 206 and the IoT network 108 can vary. The transmit antenna 208 can be placed in the side post 121 or 122, in the door 14, in both the side post and the door, or a combination of the two. In addition, the transmit antenna 208 can be placed on both sides (inside and outside) of the door 14 to provide greater range, improve overall system efficiency, and enhance performance. In an exemplary embodiment, the transmit antenna 208 is placed on the outer surface of the door 14 so that its transmission is unimpeded. Typically, when power is transmitted through a physical medium (e.g., a wall), WPTS efficiency decreases. Having WPTS antennas on both sides of the door 14 eliminates the need for power transmission through a physical medium to improve WPTS efficiency. The WPTS transmitter 206 can be placed on the side post 121 or 122, or inside the inner cavity 15 of the door 14.

[0052] Further references Figure 3 , one or more transmit antennas 208 / 408 may also be provided in any given door to transmit wireless power. Similarly, if the door is equipped with a WPTS receiver 306, there may be one or more receive antennas 308.

[0053] As opposed to doors that require wired power, which is a more complex installation that typically requires a professional, doors that are configured to receive wireless power provide a "do-it-yourself" retrofit option for powered doors. In various exemplary embodiments described herein, a consumer can simply remove the old entryway and install one or more doors and, if applicable, plug in an external (i.e., not installed in the door) WPTS module / transmitter.

[0054] like Figure 6 As shown, each repeater door 142 can be identical to the gateway door 141, except that the repeater door includes an IoT repeater 402 instead of an IoT gateway 202. The IoT repeater 402 communicates only through the IoT network 108, i.e., communicates with IoT devices, other repeater doors 142, 143, or the gateway door 141, but not directly with the Internet 106 (in some exemplary embodiments). The repeater door 142 is connected to the Internet only through the gateway door 141. The repeater door 142 can also include a power converter 400, a controller 404, and a WPTS transmitter 406 operatively connected to a transmitter antenna 408, which are respectively identical to the power converter 200, the controller 204, the WPTS transmitter 206, and the transmitter antenna 208 described above.

[0055] In an exemplary aspect, the IoT devices 102 are similarly equipped to operate with the network system 100 of the present invention. Figures 5 and 6, and are preferably identical; therefore, only one IoT device is discussed herein and is generally referenced by reference numeral 102. Figures 5 and 6 As shown, the IoT device 102 has the following components: a WPTS receiver 306, an IoT radio 300, and dedicated circuitry 302. The dedicated circuitry 302 is specific to that kind of IoT device 102 and is required for the functionality of the IoT device 102. For example, a camera will have a different dedicated circuitry 302 than an LED light. The WPTS receiver 306 is operatively connected to a receiving antenna 308; and their operation is discussed above.

[0056] The IoT radio 300 communicates wirelessly with the IoT gateway 202 on the gateway door 141, or the IoT repeater 402 on the repeater door 142, or both. Communications via the IoT radio 300 form part of the IoT network 108 (as discussed above). Some IoT devices may not require an IoT radio and may only have a WPTS receiver system, such as a TV that does not require any IoT connectivity but can still receive power wirelessly from the door.

[0057] The dedicated circuit 302 is specific to a particular IoT device 102. As described above, the IoT device 102 may be a light, a sensor, a camera, a door operator, a lock, a computer, a television, an audio / video device for teleconferencing, a heating / air conditioning unit, a fan, an air purifier. The dedicated circuit 302 may include: a sensor, such as a motion sensor; a user interface; an actuator for controlling the IoT device 102; and any other circuits necessary to operate the IoT device 102. The user interface provides a platform for indicating the status of the IoT device 102 and / or for a user to input information or instructions to the IoT device 102. The user interface may include: a display or light, for example, showing the status of the IoT device 102, and / or buttons, for example, for a user to input information or instructions to the IoT device 102.

[0058] refer to Fig.11 , which shows an exemplary system 100 that is operated by manual user input (block 500) or by configurable automatic control (block 502). The manual mode (block 500) allows the user to turn the IoT device 102 on / off by pressing a physical button (block 504) (e.g., located on the door system) or through an application (block 506) on the remote device 104. To use the remote device 104, the user can access the network system 100 from the remote device 104 through the Internet 106. In addition, if the remote device is equipped with an IoT radio, the remote device can be used for control when it is within the range of the IoT network (e.g., Bluetooth).

[0059] The automatic mode (box 502) can be operated by one of the following triggers: a preconfigured schedule (box 508), detection of room occupancy (box 510), detection / presence of a specific user (box 512), or detection or presence of an authorized user (box 514). The automatic mode (box 502) can be implemented by using the IoT network 108. For example, Bluetooth can be used to detect when a user's phone is in close proximity to a specific IoT device 104. Alternatively, a key card can be used and incorporated into the IoT network 108. Depending on the trigger, a certain (certain) IoT device may be turned on or off based on a specific trigger. Users can be classified into different categories of users. For example, a class A user can fully use all devices in any room, while a class B user is limited to certain devices in certain rooms. Here, depending on the user, only certain IoT devices 104 and certain rooms can be turned on. Once in manual mode (box 500) or automatic mode (box 502), the operation of the system 100 determines whether all or only specific IoT devices 102 must be controlled (box 516). This determination is preconfigured (if in automatic mode) or depends on manual input from a user. The IoT device 102 to be controlled is then identified as enabled or disabled (box 518). If disabled, the controller 204 (on the gateway door 141) or the controller 404 (on the repeater door 142) turns off the WPTS transmitter 206 or WPTS transmitter 406 to the disabled device 102 (box 520), thereby turning off the device 102 (box 522) and removing the device 102 from the IoT network 108 (box 524). If enabled, the controller 204 or 404 turns on the WPTS transmitter 206 or WPTS transmitter 406 to the enabled device 102 (box 526), ​​thereby starting the device 102 (box 528) and allowing the IoT device 102 to connect to the IoT network 108 (box 530). When enabled, the controller 204 or 404 turns on the device 102. When disabled, the controller 204 or 404 turns off the device 102 .

[0060] In some embodiments, the manual mode (block 500) and the automatic mode (block 502) can be operated simultaneously. For example, the manual mode (block 500) can be used to override the current state of one or more of the IoT devices 102. This can be configured to remain in this mode until a specific automatic trigger re-enables the device, or remain in a manually configured state until another manual event is used. In addition, for a specific door 14 or IoT device 102, both the manual mode (block 500) and the automatic mode (block 502) can be disabled, which can be configured from the remote device 104.

[0061] Alternatively, if the IoT device 102 is equipped with a small battery, the IoT network 108 can be used to notify the IoT device 102 to enter / exit low power mode. When entering low power mode, the IoT device 102 disables the WPTS receiver 306, thereby cutting off power from the door 14. In low power mode, the IoT device 102 remains connected to the IoT network 108, which allows the IoT device 102 to receive a signal from the door 14 to turn on its WPTS receiver 306 when triggered by an automatic trigger (block 502) or a manual trigger (block 500). This enables the use of a different architecture to implement WPTS functionality while still saving power when the IoT device 102 is not in use.

[0062] Since the door 14 can control the power of the IoT device 102 in the area, the network system 100 is configured to turn on the device 102 only when an authorized user is present. Therefore, if an unauthorized user finds his / her way into the secure area, he / she will not be able to use the IoT device. An example might be a supervisor's office. When the supervisor leaves the room, the power to the computer is disabled, preventing anyone from accessing sensitive information on that computer.

[0063] The present network system 100 provides several advantages over prior art systems. First, a single gateway door 141 provides energy savings. Here, several IoT devices 102 are connected to a single gateway door 141, which allows the IoT devices 102 to connect to the Internet. In this way, the IoT devices are wirelessly connected to the gateway via the IoT network, and then the gateway door 141 bridges these IoT devices 102 to the Internet. The system requires the gateway door 141 to have a network interface for connecting to the Internet, which allows the IoT devices to be lower cost and consume less energy. Embedding the gateway into an object already in the house (i.e., a door) also saves space and is more aesthetically pleasing.

[0064] Second, the network system 100 provides efficient energy for the IoT devices 102. Electrical outlets are not always easily accessible, and having to recharge / replace batteries is a hassle for the homeowner. By having the door 14 provide wireless power to the IoT devices 102, the homeowner / business does not have to worry about how to reliably provide power to their IoT devices 102. Additionally, a door that provides the most efficient energy transfer and / or connectivity to the IoT devices can be used, allowing for efficient energy usage and connectivity.

[0065] Third, the present network system 100 provides improved energy management. Energy conservation saves money in both commercial and residential applications and is a top priority for environmental protection. However, when not needed, the power of all IoT devices (and other devices, teleconferencing systems, projectors, lamps) must be manually controlled, which is difficult to manage. The door 14 is located at the entranceway of the building or room and is an ideal location for manually or automatically controlling devices within the room / building to save energy when the area is not in use. It is not necessary to change the infrastructure (i.e., wiring) of the house / building to accommodate the ability to manage power to a room or building, and only one or more doors 14 need to be installed to control the power of the IoT device 102 within the room / building.

[0066] Fourth, the present network system 100 provides advanced security features. Since the system 100 can control the power to the IoT devices 102 in an area, the system can be configured to turn on the devices only when an authorized user is present. An example is provided above for an executive office.

[0067] Fifth, the present network system 100 provides an ideal location for a WPTS. Conventional WPTS require large antennas, which are not aesthetically pleasing and are not easy to install. Since there is a large space in the door 14, a large antenna can be used to improve system performance and efficiency. Antennas can be placed on both sides of the door system (inside and outside), allowing for greater range and overall system efficiency and performance. In addition, this will allow a single WPTS system to be used to power devices in two areas (on both sides of the door 14) instead of a single area, thereby saving costs. The IoT device 102 can be manually configured to a specific room / area, thereby still allowing the room to be completely closed while still allowing optimal performance (i.e., energy transfer and connectivity).

[0068] The foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention is presented for illustrative purposes in accordance with the provisions of patent statutes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or changes are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments disclosed above are selected to best illustrate the principles of the present invention and its practical application, so that those of ordinary skill in the art can best utilize the present invention in various embodiments and make various modifications suitable for the specific purposes contemplated, as long as the principles described herein are followed. Therefore, without departing from the intent and scope of the above invention, the above invention may be changed.

Claims

1. A door, comprising: A door panel includes a front door skin or surface layer and a rear door skin or surface layer attached to a door frame or a portion of a door frame, at least one hinge or suspension rail attachment, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) transmitter or receiver, wherein the wireless power transfer system transmitter or receiver is configured to wirelessly transmit power or receive wireless power from a WPTS power source.

2. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The door panel includes a gateway module configured to provide Internet connectivity as an IoT gateway.

3. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The WPTS transmitter or receiver includes an antenna at least partially housed within a hollow space in the door.

4. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The WPTS transmitter or receiver includes an antenna disposed between the front door skin and the rear door skin.

5. The door according to claim 1, wherein The WPTS transmitter operates according to the RF protocol.

6. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The WPTS transmitter operates according to the IR protocol.

7. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The WPTS transmitter is also paired with a WPTS receiver so that the door is configured to simultaneously receive power and transmit power wirelessly.

8. The door according to claim 1, wherein: The door also includes: one or more Internet of Things (IoT) electrical devices, an IoT gateway, and an IoT repeater.

9. The door according to claim 8, wherein: The door includes a controller and a rechargeable battery, and is configured to communicate with at least one IoT electrical device.

10. The door according to claim 1, wherein The door is configured to wirelessly relay power and data.

11. The door according to claim 10, wherein: The gate is configured to wirelessly receive energy in a first source medium and transmit energy in a second source medium.

12. The door according to claim 11, wherein The first source medium and the second source medium are IR or RF source medium.

13. The door according to claim 1, wherein The door includes a WPTS receiver configured to receive power from an external WPTS power supply.

14. The door according to claim 1, wherein The WPTS power source transmitted by the WPTS transmitter is provided through a wired connection to the door or through a battery mounted on the door.

15. A door system comprising: at least a first door including a first door panel including a front door skin or facing and a rear door skin or facing attached to a door frame or a portion of a door frame, at least one hinge or suspension rail attachment, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit power from a WPTS power source; as well as At least a second door comprises a door panel including a front door skin or facing and a rear door skin or facing attached to a door frame or a portion of a door frame, at least one hinge or suspension rail attachment, and a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) receiver configured to wirelessly receive power from the WPTS transmitter of the first door.

16. The door system of claim 15, wherein: The first door panel includes a gateway module configured to provide an Internet connection.

17. The door system of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS transmitter includes an antenna at least partially housed within a hollow space in the first door.

18. The door system of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS transmitter includes an antenna disposed between a front door skin and a rear door skin in the first door.

19. The door according to claim 15, wherein: The WPTS transmitter operates according to the RF protocol.

20. The door of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS transmitter operates according to the IR protocol.

21. The door of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS transmitter in the first door is also paired with a WPTS receiver so that the door is configured to simultaneously wirelessly receive power and transmit power.

22. The door of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS receiver in the second door is also paired with a WPTS transmitter so that the door is configured to simultaneously wirelessly receive power and transmit power.

23. The door of claim 22, further comprising at least one external WPTS transmitter configured to be electrically connected to or integrated into a wall socket, a light socket, a power track, or a wall switch.

24. The door of claim 21, further comprising at least one external WPTS transmitter configured to be electrically connected to or integrated into a wall socket, a light socket, a power track, or a wall switch.

25. The door of claim 15, wherein: At least one of the first door and the second door further includes one or more Internet of Things (IoT) electrical devices.

26. The door of claim 24, wherein: At least one of the first door and the second door, the controller, and the rechargeable battery are configured to communicate with at least one IoT electrical device.

27. The door of claim 15, wherein: The first door is configured to wirelessly relay power and data.

28. The door of claim 26, wherein: The gate is configured to wirelessly receive energy in a first source medium and transmit energy in a second source medium.

29. The door of claim 27, wherein: The first source medium and the second source medium are IR or RF source medium.

30. The door of claim 15, wherein: The WPTS power source transmitted by the WPTS transmitter is provided through a wired connection to the door or through a battery mounted on the door.

Images