DOOR ASSEMBLY HAVING A RECHARGEABLE BATTERY, METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARGING THE BATTERY - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention relates to exterior or interior doors for residential or commercial, e.g., houses, apartments, housing complexes, hotel rooms or business buildings, and more particularly to doors equipped with a rechargeable battery as a power source that can be used to operate an electrical device attached to the door, to which the electrical device is fixed. The electrical device is powered by one or more energy harvester systems and / or by one or more rechargeable batteries that are charged by a direct connection to a power source. A system for distributing the power harvested from the energy harvester systems and / or the wired connection is also provided.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,494, filed September 23, 2021, which is incorporated herein.

[0002] The present invention relates to exterior or interior doors for residential or commercial use, such as homes, apartments, condominium complexes, hotel rooms or business buildings, and more particularly to doors equipped with a rechargeable battery as a power source that can be used to operate electrical equipment secured to the door. The present invention also relates to a battery charging system and method for automatically charging a rechargeable battery in the door. [Background technology]

[0003] Typically, an existing exterior or interior door of a residential or commercial building may have a number of electrical devices (components) fixed to the door to provide desired functions such as electronic access control, door status feedback, entry camera and voice communication, power door latch, power door lock, etc. Also, the exterior or interior door market is seeing an increase in the use of additional electrical devices such as video doorbells, smart locks, LED lighting, smart glass, power door closers, wireless connected electronics, etc. Some of these electrical devices are attachments to the existing door and work with the existing door construction, and are separately powered by at least one battery that requires periodic replacement or recharging. If the battery is not replaced or recharged, the electrical device will no longer work.

[0004] Current electrical devices are secured to exterior or interior doors in unsightly and uncomfortable ways, and typically have some type of weatherproof housing, each of which contains one or more rechargeable battery packs, or at least one non-rechargeable battery that must be periodically replaced or recharged.

[0005] Meanwhile, commercial markets such as multi-tenant and mixed-use residential, hospitals, and offices have developed power door entry systems with electric strike and door controller technology, but the use of such devices in the residential market is limited. Existing residential door construction technologies are centered on stile and rail construction, without power system integration, power management systems, or electrical equipment integration. Also, installing a full door system with integrated power is costly and difficult to coordinate with electricians and general contractors.

[0006] It has been proposed to power the door by providing grid power through an electrical system that connects the door to the grid, including electric hinges, power converters, etc. Such systems can require difficult coordination, especially when the door is installed after construction, such as during a retrofit. In an aftermarket installation, the electrician's work must be coordinated with a general contractor, and adjacent walls may need to be opened to allow the system to be connected to the grid. These coordination and installation difficulties can result in higher costs and make the installation more difficult than necessary.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a door designed to integrate electrical equipment into the door with a battery charging system for automatically charging rechargeable batteries located within the door, which could improve the performance and reduce the cost of electronic door assemblies while improving ease of installation. Summary of the Invention

[0008] One aspect of the invention provides a door having an electrical device attached thereto, the electrical device being powered by one or more energy harvester systems and / or by one or more rechargeable batteries that are charged by a direct connection to a power source, and a system for distributing power harvested from the energy harvester systems and / or the wired connection is also provided.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention provides a door assembly having a door frame secured to an opening and a door hinge secured to the door frame.

[0010] Methods of making and using different aspects of the invention are also provided.

[0011] Other aspects of the invention, including the devices, apparatus, kits, processes, and the like which form a part of the invention, will become more apparent from a reading of the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments which follow. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, together with the general description above and the detailed description of exemplary embodiments and methods below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly according to one exemplary embodiment of a door system with partially exposed electronics. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a wireless power transmission system. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a wireless power transmission system having various locations for a transmitting device. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a door system incorporating wireless power transmission and battery charging technology according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a first exemplary solar energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a second exemplary solar energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a third exemplary solar energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a fourth exemplary solar energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 9]1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a fifth exemplary solar energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a piezoelectric energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates an exterior door assembly including a kinetic energy harvester system according to the present invention. [Figure 12] The system is shown with multiple external energy harvesters (RF and solar) and an optional high voltage AC power source capable of recharging the system's batteries. [Figure 13] An embodiment is shown in which multiple antennas / coils are used and are located at the corners of the door. [Figure 14] 1 shows an embodiment in which the antenna / coil is located in an opening in the stile. [Figure 15] An embodiment is shown in which a large antenna / coil is located approximately in the center of the door. [Figure 16] The energy flow of the system is shown in detail. [Figure 17] 4 is a flowchart illustrating power management logic. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments and exemplary methods illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings, but it should be noted 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 connection with the exemplary embodiments and exemplary methods.

[0015] This description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered as part of the entire specification. In this specification, relative terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally," "vertically," "down," "upward," etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation currently being described or shown in the figures under discussion and relative to the vehicle body. These relative terms are for convenience of description and are not generally intended to require a particular orientation. Terms relating to attachments, couplings, and the like, such as "connected" and "interconnected," refer to both a relationship in which structures are held or attached to one another directly or indirectly through an intervening structure, and a movable or rigid attachment or relationship, unless otherwise specified. The term "operably connected" refers to an attachment, coupling, or connection that allows the associated structures to operate as intended by that relationship. The term "integral" (or "unitary") refers to an element constructed as a single element or an element constructed from separate parts fixedly (i.e., immovably) connected to one another. Furthermore, 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." Where "battery" is used herein, it is understood that the "battery" may alternatively be replaced with a capacitor.

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a door assembly 10 according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, such as a prehung door. The door assembly 10 is a conventional hinged residential door assembly, and it should be understood that the door assembly 10 may be an exterior or interior door assembly provided to a residential or commercial building, such as a house, apartment, garage, apartment complex, hotel, office building, etc. The door assembly 10 may be constructed of any suitable material, such as wood, metal, wood composite, fiberglass reinforced polymer composite, etc. The door assembly 10 includes a substantially rectangular frame assembly 12 and at least one hinge 16, such as a "butt hinge" that includes two leaves. 1 and a door 14 pivotally mounted thereon.

[0017] The frame assembly 12 includes parallel, spaced apart, vertically extending first vertical frame members 12. 1 and the second vertical frame member 12 2 and the first vertical frame member 12 1 and the second vertical frame member 12 2 and a horizontally extending top frame member or header 12c connecting the upper ends of the vertical frame members 12. 1 , 12 2 The bottom end of the frame is 12 t It can be appreciated that the devices may be interconnected via

[0018] At least one hinge 16 1 The door 14 is fixed to the first vertical frame member 12. 1 Typically, at least two hinges 16 1 , 16 2 The door 14 is fixed to the first vertical frame member 12. 1 Preferably, three hinges 16 are provided to secure the housing to the housing, as best shown in FIG. 1 , 16 2 , 16 3 are used to retain the door 14 to the frame assembly 12. In the following discussion, for simplicity, the reference number 16 without a subscript may be used to refer to the entire group of hinges. For example, hinge 16 1, 16 2 , 16 3 When referring to these collectively, the reference numeral 16 may be used.

[0019] The door 14 includes a rectangular interior door frame 20, a first (or exterior) door skin (or surface) 23, and a second (or interior) door skin (or surface) 24 held on an opposite side of the interior door frame 20. The first and second door skins 23 and 24 are formed separately from one another. The door skins 23, 24 are held, for example, typically adhesively, on suitable cores and / or opposite sides of the interior door frame 20 such that the interior door frame 20 is sandwiched between the first and second door skins 23 and 24. Typically, the first and second door skins 23 and 24 are made of polymer-based composites such as sheet molding compound (SMC) or medium density fiberboard (MDF), other wood composites, fiber reinforced polymers such as fiberglass, hardboard, fiberboard, steel, and other thermoplastic materials. The door 14 has a hinge side 14H secured to an interior door frame 20 by a hinge 16, and a horizontally opposed latch side 14L.

[0020] The interior door frame 20 includes a pair of parallel, spaced, horizontally extending top rails 21, typically fabricated from wood or laminated lumber, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL). 1 and lower rail 22 2 and a pair of first frames 22 each extending vertically and spaced apart from each other in parallel. 1 and second frame 22 2 The upper rail 21 1 and lower rail 21 2 1st frame 22 1 and the second frame 22 2 The upper rail 21 extends horizontally between the upper rail 21 and the 1 and lower rail 21 2 The first frame 22 is attached to the first frame 22 by adhesive or mechanical fasteners. 1 and second frame 22 2 The interior door frame 20 may further include intermediate rails. The intermediate rails extend horizontally and are each connected to the upper rail 21.1 and lower rail 21 2 The intermediate rail is spaced from the first frame 22 and is typically made of wood or laminated timber, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL). 1 and second frame 22 2 The hinge 16 may be securely held in place by a first stile 22 that defines a hinge stile of the interior door frame 20. 1 is held in

[0021] The interior door frame 20 and the first and second door skins 23, 24 of a typical door enclose an interior cavity 15, which may be hollow and may be filled, as desired, with, for example, corrugated padding, foam insulation, or other core material. Thus, the door 14 may include a core disposed within the interior door frame 20 between the first and second door skins 23, 24. The core may be formed from a foam insulation material, such as a polyurethane foam material, a cellulosic material and a binder resin, corrugated padding, etc. The first and second door skins 23, 24 typically have the same appearance and may be flat, flush, or have one or more paneled sections.

[0022] The door assembly 10 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a number of electrical devices mounted to the door 14, and possibly also to the interior door frame 20 of the door assembly 10, to provide functions such as electronic access control, door status feedback, entry cameras, and audio / video communications. Specifically, the electrical devices that may be mounted to the door assembly 10 include a doorbell 36, as best shown in FIG. 1 , Digital Camera 36 2 , and 36 lower frame LED lights 3 Including but not limited to: 36 LED bottom lights 3 may be illuminated when an authorized person is recognized or when a person approaches the door 14. 1 ~36 3is a low voltage DC electrical device that is typically powered by low voltage DC power (e.g., 5 volts (V), 12 volts, 24 volts, or other required voltage). It should be understood that the door assembly 10 may include other electrical devices, as there are numerous electrical devices commercially available that are secured to doors and provide functions such as electronic access control, door status feedback, entry cameras, and communications. In the following discussion, for simplicity, reference numbers without subscripts may be used to indicate an entire group of electrical devices. For example, electrical device 36 1 ~36 3 When referring to these collectively, the reference numeral 36 may be used.

[0023] Low voltage direct current (DC) is known in the art as 50 volts (V) or less. Common low voltages are 5V, 12V, 24V, and 48V. Low voltage is typically used in door bells, garage door opener controls, heating and cooling thermostats, alarm system sensors and controls, outdoor ground lighting, and home and automobile batteries. Low voltage (when the power source is operating normally) does not present a shock on contact. However, a high current, low voltage short circuit (automotive battery) can cause an arc flash and burn out.

[0024] The door assembly 10 may include a power door latch / lock 30 secured to the door 14. As best shown in FIG. 1, the power door latch / lock 30 includes a power center latch bolt that is movable between extended and extended positions. As best shown in FIG. 1, the power door latch / lock 30 is secured to the latch side 14L of the door 14. Specifically, the power door latch / lock 30 is secured to the second stile 22 that defines a latch stile of the interior door frame 20. 2 The power door latch / lock 30 is preferably powered by low voltage DC power and may have an illuminated door knob 32 and / or an illuminated keyhole.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the door assembly 10 is attached to one of the stiles of the door frame 20 (e.g., the second stile 22). 2The battery pack 40 further includes a primary battery (or battery pack) 40 that slides into the frame 22. 2 Although shown located at the door 14, the primary battery 40 may be incorporated within a compartment within the door 14. The primary battery 40 is electrically connected to a DC power distribution block 42. The primary battery 40 has a low nominal voltage, such as 5 volts (V), 24 volts, or other desired voltage. The electrical components 36 of the door assembly 10 include the power door latch / lock 30 and the electrical device 36. 1 ~36 3 The door 14 is powered and operated by the power of a primary battery 40 as the main power source for the primary battery 40. The primary battery 40 is a rechargeable battery (or one or more battery packs) that is charged by low-voltage DC power. The low-voltage DC power is supplied from a power distribution block 42 to the power door latch / lock 30 and the electrical device 36 secured to the door 14. 1 ~36 3 are supplied to.

[0026] A plurality of electrical wires 45 connect the low voltage power distribution block 42 to the power door latch / lock 30 and the electrical device 36. 1 ~36 3 3, the electric door latch / lock 30 and the electric device 36 are electrically connected to the 1 ~36 3 to the primary battery 40. Alternatively, the electrical connector may 1 ~36 3 The electrical connector may be pre-fixed at a desired location on the door 14 so that it can simply be inserted and plugged into the electrical connector. Standard flange sizes and plug-in locations relative to the flange locations of the electrical components may be set to allow suppliers to supply electrical equipment that is easy to plug into the door 14.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, the door 14 of the door assembly 10 receives input from one or more sensors, such as a motion sensor (or motion detector), a proximity sensor, a light sensor, and an electrical device 36. 1 ~36 3, power door latch / lock 30, and a central electronic control unit (ECU) (or power management controller) 48 configured to be programmed to transmit commands to the homeowner. ECU 48 is preferably an electronic controller having suitable firmware and / or associated software to ensure its operation and interaction with electrical equipment 36 and associated sensors (if present). Central ECU 48 controls power door latch / lock 30 and electrical equipment 36. 1 ~36 3 Therefore, the central ECU 48 controls the data link 44 1 , 44 2 , 44 3 , and 44L, the electric door latch / lock 30 and the electric device 36 1 ~36 3 and communicate.

[0028] The door assembly 10 includes a primary battery 40 for wireless charging, for example, by the wireless power transfer system 50. While FIG. 1 illustrates a primary battery 40, in certain embodiments, it may be desirable to include a storage battery 300 to ensure that power is continually available to operate the system, as described below. Generally, the wireless power transfer system 50 includes a power transmitting device (or power transmitter) 52, a transmitting antenna (or transmit coupling device) 54 operably connected to the power transmitter 52, a receiving antenna (or receive coupling device) 56, and a power receiving device (or power receiver) 58 operably connected to the coupling device 56, as best shown in FIG. 2. The power transmitter 52 and transmitting antenna 54 devices are collectively referred to as a transmitter assembly 500. The receiving antenna 56 and power receiver 58 are collectively referred to herein as a receiver assembly 501.

[0029] The coupling device 56, power receiver 58 and primary battery 40 are preferably located within the door 14 of the door assembly 10, and the power transmitter 52 and transmission coupling device 54 are located outside the door 14, spaced apart from the door 14 and not in direct physical contact with the door assembly 10.

[0030] The power transmitter 52 is electrically connected to a steady (high voltage AC (e.g., 110 (or 120) V AC) or DC power source 60. Preferably, the power source 60 is powered by a wall outlet typically found in a residential or commercial building. The power transmitter 52 converts the high voltage AC power from the power source 60 into a time-varying electromagnetic field. The transmit coupling device 54 and the receive coupling device 56 cooperate to transmit the time-varying electromagnetic field to a power receiver 58. The power receiver 58 then receives and converts the time-varying electromagnetic field into a DC current that is used to directly or indirectly charge the primary battery 40.

[0031] In the power transmitter 52, the input high voltage AC power is converted into an oscillating electromagnetic field by an "antenna" (or coupling device), such as a transmit coupling device 54. As used herein, the term "antenna" (or coupling device) may be a coil of wire that produces a magnetic field, a metal plate that produces an electric field, an antenna that emits radio waves, or a laser that produces light. A similar antenna or coupling device 56 in the power receiver 58 receives the oscillating electromagnetic field and converts it into an electric current. One parameter that determines the type of wave is the frequency, which determines the wavelength.

[0032] Several techniques can be used to implement the wireless power transfer system 50, such as inductive coupling (transmission of electrical energy using electromagnetic induction between coils by a magnetic field), resonant inductive coupling (a form of inductive coupling where power is transferred by a magnetic field between two resonant circuits (tuned circuits), one at the transmitter and the other at the receiver), capacitive coupling (transmission of electrical energy using an electric field for the transfer of power between two electrodes (anode and cathode) that form a capacitance for the transfer of power), magneto-dynamic coupling (transmission of electrical energy between two armatures, one at the transmitter and the other at the receiver, that rotate in synchronism and are coupled to each other by a magnetic field generated by magnets on the armatures), microwave (transmission of electrical energy via radio waves, which are short wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, typically in the microwave range), and light waves (solar and infrared). For wireless power transfer, the use of radio waves is most preferred, followed by the use of infrared (IR).

[0033] In one technique, the power transmitter 52 generates a radio frequency (RF) power signal and transmits the RF power signal to the power receiver 58 via the transmitting antenna 54 and the receiving antenna 56. The power receiver 58 receives the input RF power signal and converts it into a charging current, preferably DC, and inputs the converted charging current to the primary battery 40. Through the above process, the primary battery 40 can be charged directly or indirectly. Here, the RF power signal defines the transmitting power charging signal.

[0034] In accordance with the present invention, as best shown in FIG. 3, the power transmitter 52 may be located at one or more locations remote from the door assembly 10, including, but not limited to, the following locations:

[0035] In the case of a light switch junction box 621 located near the door assembly 10, the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 are fixed to the inside of the light switch, e.g., to the wall of a building, into which the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 are assembled.

[0036] An electrical outlet 62 located near the door assembly 10 2 In this case, the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 are attached to the electrical outlet 62 manufactured with the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 installed. 2 is fixed on the inside.

[0037] A light bulb socket 62 located near the door assembly 10 3 In this case, the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 are connected to a light bulb socket 62. 3 is incorporated into.

[0038] External Receptacle Plug Transmitter 62 4 In this case, the power transmitter 52 and transmitting antenna 54 are connected to an external receptacle-plug transmitter 62 that plugs into an electrical outlet 64. 4 is incorporated into.

[0039] Doorbell Power Transmitter 62 5 In this case, the power transmitter 52 and transmitting antenna 54 are attached to the existing doorbell wiring.

[0040] The receiving antenna 56 may be embedded or attached to the door skin 23 or 24 of the door 14, allowing great flexibility in the size and shape of the receiving antenna 56. Preferably, the receiving antenna 56 is adhesively attached to the door skin 23 or 24 or is bonded to the door skin 23 or 24 and the frame 22. 2 or the door frame 20, or sandwiched between the door skin and the foamed middle portion of the door. When the antenna 56 is attached to the door skin 23 or 24, it is attached to a surface of the door skin 23 or 24 that faces the interior of the door, and is therefore not visible from the exterior of the door 14. Figures 13-15 show different exemplary embodiments of the receiving antenna 56 in the door 14. The antenna 56 may be a planar antenna or a coil. However, the present invention is not limited to these exemplary embodiments.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 13, the receiving antenna 56 includes four different sub-antennas 56 each positioned adjacent a corner of the door 14. 1 ~46 4 In FIG. 13, four different sub-antennas are shown, but any number may be used. 1 ~46 4 are connected to each other and to the power receiver 58, for example, by a ribbon cable 204. The power receiver is preferably mounted on the stile 22 of the door 14. 1 and 22 2 The sub-antennas are located at an opening 206 in one of the doors 54 and 56. The opening 206 is preferably covered by a cover 208 that is removable to allow access to the power receiver 58. The different locations of each sub-antenna improve the efficiency of power collection. In general, the amount of RF power that can be captured is proportional to the distance the radio waves travel from the transmitting antenna 54 to the receiving antenna 56. Thus, a direct path can capture more energy compared to radio waves that bounce off the walls and head to the receiver. At the time of manufacture, it is generally not known where the transmitter will be located relative to the receiving antenna, since the layout of the house and the location of the door 14 are not known. For best performance, the transmitting antenna 54 and the receiving antenna 56 need to be in line of sight with each other. Therefore, having multiple sub-antennas at different locations on the door 14 allows flexibility as to where the transmitting antenna 54 can be placed.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 14, the power receiving antenna 56 and the power receiver 58 are both mounted on the frame 22 of the door 14. 1 and 22 2 2. The receiving antenna 56 is located within an opening 206 in one of the receiving antennas 56 and 58. The receiving antenna 56 is connected to the power receiver 58, for example, by a ribbon cable 204. The opening is preferably covered by a removable cover 208 to provide access to the receiving antenna 56 and the power receiver 58.

[0043] 15, the receiving antenna 56 is mounted approximately at the center of the door skin 23 (or 24) and is connected to a power receiver 58, for example, via a ribbon cable 204. This location allows the antenna 56 to be very large. The power receiver 58 is mounted on the stile 22. 1 (or 22 2 ) of the door 14. A cover 208 covers the opening 206 and is removable to allow access to the power receiver 58. The door assembly 10 according to the second exemplary embodiment includes a wireless power transmission system in the form of an external energy harvester system 66 for ultimately charging the primary battery 40. Generally, the external energy harvester system 66 is based on harvesting (i.e., gathering) energy from one or more external energy sources to ultimately charge the primary battery 40 of the door 14, as best shown in FIG. 4. The external energy harvester 66 and energy harvesting (also known as power harvesting or energy scavenging or ambient power) generally refer to devices and processes or methods for collecting and storing energy present in the environment or obtained from external energy sources (e.g., solar energy, thermal energy, wind energy, RF energy, salinity differences, and kinetic energy such as low frequency excitation or rotation, also known as ambient energy), typically by converting the ambient energy into electricity for subsequent storage in a battery. An external energy source is an energy source, such as electromagnetic radiation or mechanical energy, that is not delivered directly to the door 14 or door assembly 10 by wiring. Typically, ambient energy is captured and stored in small wireless autonomous devices. Energy harvesters usually provide very small amounts of power to low-energy electronic devices. The energy sources of some energy harvesters are naturally present in the surrounding environment, while the energy sources of others are intentionally generated (i.e., application specific). The external energy source is harnessed and converted into electrical energy, which ultimately charges the primary battery 40.

[0044] There are several external energy sources that can be harvested to charge the primary battery 40 of the door 14. Because every door installation is unique, the energy harvesting system 66 is equipped with independent harvesters specific to the type of energy being harvested. Each harvesting system 66 is equipped with a plug-n-play interface 74. 1 ~74 4 It has a plug-n-play interface 1 ~74 4 The solar energy harvester system 66 is configured to connect to the plug-n-play interface 41 of the door 14 to eventually charge the primary battery 40 via the battery charger 43, as shown in FIG. 4 . The plug-n-play interface 41 is located on the door 14 and includes an electrical connector for plugging in the plug-n-play interface 74 of the energy harvester system 66. The plug-n-play interfaces 41, 74 on the door 14 and the harvester system 66 allow different energy sources to be quickly added and removed from the system. Each installation of the door assembly 10 is unique and not all external energy sources may be available. For example, some door assemblies may be installed in locations that are not exposed to direct sunlight. In this scenario, the solar energy harvester system 66 may be configured to connect to the plug-n-play interface 41 of the door 14 and ultimately charge the primary battery 40 via the battery charger 43. 2 is not required. The ability to upgrade to different permanent energy sources in the field allows for flexibility in harvesting the right type of energy for that particular installation. It is difficult to predict what type of external energy sources will be present during the door manufacturing process. This allows the system to be quickly customized in the field to harvest the maximum amount of energy.

[0045] When the plug-n-play interface 74 of the energy harvester system 66 is plugged into the plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14, the energy harvester system 66 is electrically connected to the door 14. In FIG.1 ~66 3 refer to RF and magnetic wave energy harvester systems, solar energy harvester systems, and mechanical energy harvester systems, respectively. 4refers to any other available energy harvesting system. The plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14 preferably includes a number of electrical connectors that mate with the plug-n-play interface 74 of the energy harvester system 66. Additionally, the plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14 may include one or more connectors to mate with electrical connections for direct wired connection to the high voltage AC power source 60. As shown in FIG. 4, the door 14 also includes a rechargeable storage battery 300. Since a battery cannot discharge and charge at the same time, the storage battery 300 charges the primary battery 40 via a charger 43 and provides power to the system (ECU 48, smart lock 30, and electrical device 36) when the primary battery 40 needs to be recharged. When the primary battery 40 has enough power to operate the system, the storage battery 300 is charged by the energy harvester system 66 via a charger 304. The storage battery 300 stores the harvested energy. Since various external energy sources may not have a stable power delivery, the storage battery 300 needs to store that energy whenever it becomes available. The storage battery 300 should have a large capacity to store a large amount of energy so that it can charge the primary battery 40 multiple times, preferably more than once. When the primary battery 40 needs to be charged, the storage battery 300 is also used to power the system while recharging the primary battery. If the storage battery 300 is used to charge the primary battery 40, the harvester system is also disabled because a battery cannot discharge and charge at the same time, and therefore the charge of the storage battery 300 is not available. The chargers 43 and 304 are used to charge the batteries 40 and 300, respectively. The battery chargers control the charging and discharging of the attached batteries. The chargers 43 and 304 also provide the charging and charging status of the respective batteries 40 and 300 to the ECU 48. The chargers 43 and 304 also include battery protection functions including, but not limited to, protection against overcurrent / undercurrent, overvoltage / undervoltage, overcharge / deep discharge, and extreme temperatures (too hot, too cold). The details of the charging operation of the primary battery 40 and the storage battery 300 will be described later.

[0046] The primary battery 40 is then connected to the ECU 48, the power door latch / lock 30, and the electrical device 36 via a power output regulator 308 that regulates the power required to run the system. The power required to power the electrical device 36 on the door 114 is controlled by the output power control (ECU) 48. Depending on the external energy sources available, not all harvesters 66 are installed on the door 14. For example, a house with a door with limited sunlight may not have a solar energy harvester installed. The ECU 48 can automatically detect whether a particular energy harvester 66 is installed or not via signals on the plug-n-play interfaces 41 and 74. Each energy harvester 66 has a dedicated power regulator 67 and an energy capture circuit (i.e., harvester 68) specific to that type of harvested energy. The energy harvester system 66 can also harvest multiple energy sources simultaneously [how?]. These features allow the system to adapt to the available energy since each energy source may not always be present or have the same level of energy (i.e., it may be cloudy, so less solar energy may be harvested). Several of these energy harvesters 66 may be used in combination to ensure sufficient energy is generated to power the door 14 and / or recharge the batteries (300 and / or 40) of the door 14. The various energies that may be harvested include, but are not limited to, the following, as best shown in Figures 4 and 12:

[0047] In the case of naturally occurring ambient radiation sources (RF (radio frequency) energy harvesting), the energy is obtained from a transmitter that transmits radio waves. For example, a home Wi-Fi system transmits radio waves that can be harvested and used as an energy source. RF and Electromagnetic Wave Energy Harvester Systems 66 1 The energy harvester 68 is electrically connected to the storage battery 300. 1 Includes.

[0048] Radio or electromagnetic waves may be intentionally delivered to the door 14. An example of such is shown in Figure 2 and described above. Power from a high voltage AC power source 60 may be delivered to the door 14 via RF and / or electromagnetic energy, for example, as described below and in Figures 2 and 12.

[0049] In the case of photovoltaic (solar energy) the door 14 includes a solar energy harvester system 66 2 A solar energy harvester system 66 is provided. 2 1, a solar harvester 68 in the form of one or more solar panels 70 integrated into the exterior skin of the door 14 or adjacent to the door 14, e.g., adjacent to a wall. 2 Includes.

[0050] Mechanical Energy Harvester System 66 3 In the case of one or more piezoelectric / magnetic harvesters68 3 The mechanical strain of the door closure on the piezoelectric material of the piezoelectric harvester 68 can be used to generate power to charge the storage battery 300 (and indirectly, the primary battery 40). 3 may be incorporated into one or more hinges 16 or inside the door 14 and connected to a battery 300. Alternatively, vibrational or kinetic energy from slamming the door 14, or other natural vibrations found in the home, may be harvested to generate energy.

[0051] Alternatively, a mechanical energy harvester 66 3 can harvest energy using electromagnetic induction (or kinetic energy), and power can be generated by a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field can be generated by the rotation of the door 14 as it opens and closes. Alternatively, the changing magnetic field can be generated by the vibration of a door slamming or other natural vibrations found in a home. One or more electromagnetic induction devices can be used to generate power to charge the battery 300.

[0052] In addition to the energy harvester 68, each of the energy harvester systems 66 also includes a power conditioner 67 located between the energy harvester 68 and the plug-n-play interface (see Figures 4 and 16). The most efficient way to harvest as much energy as possible is to provide a separate energy harvester 68 and power conditioner 67 for each type of external energy source, and then combine the harvested energy after each independent power conditioner 67. The power conditioner 67 performs the functions of, but is not limited to: 1) conditioning the harvested power so that it can be efficiently stored; 2) adjusting the load characteristics to optimize the energy transfer of the harvester system; and 3) regulating the output voltage and current. The benefits of many harvester systems, especially solar, come from a process called Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) or similar technology. For this reason, it is usually most efficient to tune the energy harvester system 66 to harvest energy most efficiently from the particular source being used. Similarly, attempting to tune the energy harvester system 66 to harvest from two entirely different sources would simply result in a system that is significantly less optimized in operation compared to a similar system that used two separate energy processing pipelines. When harvesting from a particular source, only a small voltage may be induced, in some cases well below 0.5V. As such, most modern transistor technologies only function with a voltage difference of 0.7V or more, which means that custom components intended to function at low input voltages must be selected to efficiently harvest a particular energy source. It is therefore important to use components specifically selected for the energy source being harvested. Also, the power conditioner 67 may be powered from the door system (i.e., the primary battery 40 or the storage battery 300) rather than being powered directly from the harvested energy to allow certain integrated circuits (ICs) to start up properly. Certain ICs require a minimum input voltage to begin functioning before the input drops further to its normal operating voltage.For example, a chip may be rated to operate with an input of 0.2V, but may require a start-up voltage of 2.6V to begin functioning. This means that if a design can only generate 0.5V, other circuitry is required to get the chip to the 2.6V required to start, otherwise the chip will never begin functioning. Having the door system power the power regulator 67 allows for the use of more commonly available regulators, allowing for a lower cost system. To power the power regulator 67 directly from harvested energy may require the use of a custom power regulator with a very low start-up voltage, which may increase the cost of the system. In certain embodiments, the power regulator 67 can be turned off or put into a sleep mode to avoid consuming energy when not needed. For example, the solar energy harvester system 66. 2 Power regulator 67 2 may be controlled by the ECU to turn on at night so as not to consume any energy when there is no solar energy being collected.

[0053] Door Assembly 10 1 As best shown in Figure 5, the solar harvester 2 As solar panel 70 1 Includes 70 solar panels 1 Door 14 1 The solar panel 70 is integrated into the outer skin 23 of the solar panel 70. 1 Door 14 1 5, is located within door 14. 1 The solar panel 70 is oriented perpendicular to the exterior skin 23 so that it is visible from the outside of the solar panel 70. 1 The solar panels are exposed to ambient solar radiation and converted into electrical energy as is well known in the art. Solar panels are available in a variety of sizes and energy outputs.

[0054] Door assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 So, solar panel 70 1 70 solar panels2 Replaced by 70 solar panels 2 As best seen in FIG. 6, the door 114 2 Door 14 visible from outside 2 Door 14 2 When the solar panel 70 is in the retracted position, it slides vertically. 2 4. When in the raised position, the solar panel 70 is exposed. 2 The solar panel 70 further includes a door panel 71 that shields the solar panel 70 from harsh environments (rain, hail, flying debris, and extreme temperatures) that may cause damage. 2 The door panel 71 may be raised to protect the solar panel 70. The door panel 71 may be raised and lowered, for example, controlled by the ECU 48. Additionally, the door panel 71 may be raised when no sunlight is detected, thereby improving the aesthetics of the door when the solar panel 70 is not in use. For example, a light sensor may detect available sunlight and open the door panel 71 when sunlight is available. The door panel 71 is preferably motorized and can be activated by the homeowner, for example via an app, or by a sensor located on the door 14.

[0055] Door assembly 10 shown in FIG. 3 So, solar panel 70 1 70 solar panels 3 Replaced by 70 solar panels 3 Door 14 3 7, the door 14 is secured to the bottom of the exterior skin 23 of the door 14. 3 In this position, the solar panel 70 is visible from the outside of the door as a kick plate, a common feature on doors, reducing the possibility of adversely affecting the overall aesthetics of the door. The panel may be constructed of materials such as hardened panels to protect against harsh environments.

[0056] Door assembly 10 shown in FIG. 4 So, solar panel 70 1 70 solar panels4 Replaced by 70 solar panels 4 As shown in FIG. 8, the solar panel 70 is disposed in front of the door 14, such as a welcome mat. 4 may be connected to the door 14 by a cable that plugs into the plug-n-play interface 41. The amount of energy that a solar panel can capture is proportional to the surface area of ​​the solar panel. The larger the panel, the more energy it can capture. The size of the solar panel therefore depends on the energy consumption of the system. However, that consideration needs to be considered as a trade-off between aesthetics and additional power. Alternatively, the solar panel 70 4 may be replaced by a welcome mat with a piezoelectric plate embedded in the mat. In this embodiment, the mat acts as a piezoelectric energy harvester, generating energy every time a user steps on the mat.

[0057] Door assembly 10 shown in FIG. 5 So, solar panel 70 1 The solar panel 70 is provided to cover the door lite 78. 5 Replaced by 70 solar panels 5 As shown in Figure 9, door 14 5 As seen from the outside, door 14 5 The solar panel 70 is fixed to the 5 The window blinds are defined by a plurality of individual blind slats 72, each of which is covered by an individual photovoltaic (PV) module. 5 The window blinds slide vertically to open and close the door light 78. The window blinds preferably fold away from each other to save space inside the door. The photovoltaic (PV) modules each convert solar energy into electricity. The photovoltaic (PV) modules are interconnected and connected to the power conditioner 67 via appropriate wiring. 1 The blinds can be opened and closed automatically and manually. 5The blinds may be controlled by the ECU 48 which may use sensors located in the blinds. Commands received from the cloud / app may also trigger the opening or closing of the blinds.

[0058] FIG. 10 illustrates a piezoelectric harvester 68 disposed within the door 14. 3 An exemplary piezoelectric energy harvester system 66 including: 3 Piezoelectric Harvester 68 3 The door 14 includes a flexible cantilever beam 80 held by a fixed rigid support 82, front and rear piezoelectric plates 84 held on the front and rear sides of the flexible cantilever beam 80, and a proof mass 86 held at the free distal end of the cantilever beam 80. Upon opening and closing of the door 14, the proof mass 86 moves relative to the fixed rigid support 82, deforming the flexible cantilever beam 80 and the piezoelectric plate 84. As the piezoelectric plate 84 deforms, it generates an electrical current that is used to recharge the battery 300.

[0059] FIG. 11 illustrates a kinetic energy harvester 68 disposed within the door 14. 4 An exemplary kinetic energy harvester system 66 including: 4 Kinetic Energy Harvester68 4 The door 14 includes an elongated (e.g., cylindrical) casing 90, an electromagnetic coil 92 fixed to one of the opposing distal ends of the casing 90, and a magnet 94 linearly movable relative to the electromagnetic coil 92. The magnet 94 is resiliently biased toward the electromagnetic coil 92 by a coil spring 96. When the door 14 is opened or closed, the proof mass 86 moves relative to the fixed rigid support 82 and the magnet 94 slides linearly relative to the electromagnetic coil 92 within the casing 90, generating a current in the electromagnetic coil 92 that is used to recharge the primary battery 40 via the storage battery 300.

[0060] Thus, the door assembly of the present invention is less expensive and easier to install for the home owner or user (no electrician required) since it does not require a constantly present wired external power source. The door assembly of the present invention also solves the problem that the user must rely solely on manual operation to recharge the battery of the door or peripheral devices. Instead of trying to fully power the door using an external wireless energy source (where the available power is unstable and unpredictable), the wireless power system of the present invention slowly charges the battery. Thus, the wireless power transmission system of the present invention does not need to transmit a large amount of power in a short period of time, which allows the transmission assembly 500 to be compact. The convenient installation option of the plug-n-play interface allows the wireless power system of the present invention to be easily configured in the field and installed by unskilled individuals.

[0061] Preferably, the battery 300 is connected to an on-demand high voltage AC power source 60 (direct wired connection), a solar energy harvester system 66 2 , Radio or Magnetic Wave Energy Harvester System 66 1 , Mechanical Energy Harvester System 66 3 , or a combination thereof. In this configuration, the different embodiments described above are combined to recharge the battery 300 (and thus the primary battery 40). For example, the battery 300 can be powered by an external high voltage AC power source 60 (on-demand wired connection) and a solar energy harvester 66. 2 The solar energy harvester 66 may be charged by 2 , Mechanical Energy Harvester System 66 3 , and may be charged by an external high voltage AC power source 60 (wired on demand), and a solar energy harvester system 66 2 , Radio or Magnetic Wave Energy Harvester System 66 1 , and a mechanical wave energy harvester system 66 3 The solar energy harvester system 66 may be charged by 2, Radio or Magnetic Wave Energy Harvester System 66 1 , and mechanical energy harvester system 66 3 The battery may be charged by, for example,

[0062] In the exemplary system shown in FIG. 12, the primary battery 40 is charged by the storage battery 300 or the high voltage AC power source 60. As shown in FIG. 12, the high voltage AC power source 60 can be used to recharge the primary battery 40 by a temporary wired connection. In the case of a wired connection, the AC power is converted by the AC / DC converter 200. The DC power from the AC / DC converter 200 is then preferably wired to the door by plugging the power line from the AC / DC converter 200 into the plug-n-play interface 41 of the door 14 (see FIG. 4). The AC / DC converter 200 preferably includes a plug-n-play interface 502 that mates with the plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14. However, because a wire connected to the door 14 is unsightly and generally undesirable, a wired charging connection is only desirable in limited situations where the primary battery 40 requires power immediately (such as when both the primary battery 40 and the storage battery 300 are depleted). Once the primary battery 40 is sufficiently charged, the wiring may be removed. It should also be appreciated that the AC / DC converter 200 may also be used to recharge the storage battery 300.

[0063] Also in Fig. 12, a wireless power transmission system 50 as shown in Fig. 2 is used for wireless charging. The wireless power transmission system 50 includes a power transmitter 52, a transmitting antenna 54 operably connected to the power transmitter 52, a receiving antenna 56, and a power receiver 58 operably connected to the coupling device 56. The receiving antenna 56 and the power receiver 58 are located on or inside the door 14, while the power transmitter 52 and the transmitting antenna 54 are remote from the door 14, as described above and disclosed in Fig. 3. Essentially, as shown in Fig. 12, the receiving antenna 56 and the power receiver 58 are connected to a radio wave and electromagnetic wave harvester system 66. 1Each of the RF and electromagnetic energy harvesters 68 1 and power regulator 67 1 The receiving antenna 56 is preferably formed in the door skin 22 and / or 24 as described above and disclosed in Figures 13, 14 and 15. The power receiver 58 is electrically connected to the energy source selector 302 and ultimately to the central ECU 48 via the plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14 as described above. The solar energy harvester system 66 2 Preferably, as described above, the solar energy harvester system 66 2 The solar energy harvester system 66 is connected to the energy source selector 302 via a plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14, which connects the energy source selector 302 to the central ECU 48. The central ECU 48 monitors and controls the energy source selector 302 to select the solar energy harvester system 66. 2 and distributes power collected from the power receiver 58 to a storage battery 300 which is charged by a battery charger 304. The storage battery 300 is used to charge the primary battery 40 when the primary battery 40 runs out of power (insufficient power to run the ECU 48, smart lock 30, other electrical devices 36, power regulator 67, energy source selector, and other power consuming components of the door 14). Power from the primary battery 40 (or storage battery 300, described below) is distributed via a power output regulator 308 to the ECU 48, smart lock 30, other electrical devices 36, power regulator 67, energy source selector, and other power consuming components of the door 14.

[0064] FIG. 12 illustrates a solar energy harvester system 66 used to charge a battery 300. 2 , and radio and magnetic wave energy harvesters 66 1 , which shows a mechanical energy harvester system 66 3 and / or other energy harvester systems 66 4 Other energy harvester systems 66, such as the . 1 , 66 3 ~664 Solar Energy Harvester System 66 2 and a solar energy harvester system 66. 2 12 shows high voltage AC power supply 60 being used to recharge primary battery 40 via a direct wired connection, the use of AC power and wired charging is not preferred over the wireless options discussed above, but is used only in special cases where both storage 300 and primary 40 do not have enough power to run the system, as described above.

[0065] Please refer to FIG. 4 which illustrates the use of an energy harvester system 66) to charge the storage battery 300 (and thus the primary battery 40). As shown in FIG. 4, in conjunction with the energy harvester system 66, the storage battery 300 can also be charged by a wired connection to a high voltage AC power source 60 via an AC / DC converter. This wired connection is preferably plugged into a plug-n-play interface 41 on the door 14. FIG. 4 illustrates the radio and electromagnetic energy harvester system 66 connected to the plug-n-play interface 41 on the door. 1 , Solar Energy Harvester System 66 2 , Mechanical Energy Harvester System 66 3 , and other energy harvester systems 66 4 Although shown, it is not necessary to plug all of the energy harvester systems 66 into the door at once. More than one, and preferably more than two, can be used to provide a reliable source of energy. Additionally, as shown in Figures 4, 12 and 16, the primary battery 40 may be charged directly by a wired high voltage AC power source 60.

[0066] As mentioned above, the storage battery 300 is charged by the energy harvester system 66 and / or the wired high voltage AC power source 60 via the charger 304. The storage battery 300 is then used to charge the primary battery 40 via the charger 43. The system is designed to allow energy to be stored (in the storage battery 300) while the primary battery 40 is simultaneously discharged to power the system (power regulator, energy source selector, ECU 48, smart lock 30 and / or electrical device 36). When the primary battery 40 has enough power to operate the system, the storage battery 300 is charged by the energy harvester system 66 and / or the wired high voltage AC power source 60. When the primary battery 40 is depleted, charging of the storage battery 300 is disabled and the storage battery 300 is used to charge the primary battery 40 and power the system, as shown in Figures 4, 12 and 16. This allows for uninterrupted operation of the system. The electrical circuitry responsible for switching between battery operation of the primary battery 40 and the storage battery 300 is located in an Energy Source Selector Module (ESSM) 302 (see Figures 4, 12 and 16). The ECU 48 includes a Power Monitoring and Management Logic Module (MMLC) 306 that communicates with and controls the ESSM 302 (see Figure 16).

[0067] Overall, the ECU 48 acts as the nerve center of the system. It monitors signals received from the ESSM 302 to enable / disable battery charging, select an appropriate power source for charging the primary battery, select an appropriate power source for operating the system, and / or enable / disable the energy harvester system 66 when not needed. The central ECU 48 also manages the smart lock 30 and electrical devices 36 by providing and monitoring the appropriate power / communications required for normal operation.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 16, the combination of plug-n-play interfaces 74, 41 allows energy to be simultaneously harvested by different energy harvester systems 66 and then delivered to the ESSM 302. The ESSM 302 is located in the door 14 and includes hardware, but is not limited to, for providing four (4) main functions: 1) routing power to the systems (electrical equipment 36, smart lock 30, power regulator 67, energy source selector 302, and any other powered equipment), 2) routing power for recharging the primary battery, 3) enabling / disabling charging the storage battery 40, 300 (batteries that cannot be simultaneously discharged and recharged), and 4) combining energy harvested from the various energy harvester systems and using it to recharge the storage battery 300. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the ESSM 302 can also use software. The ESSM 302 interfaces with the ECU 48 to send and receive signals. Signals received from the ECU 48 include, for example, but are not limited to, a signal to enable / disable charging of the storage battery, a signal to change the power source for charging the primary battery 40, a signal to select a power source appropriate for powering the system, and a signal to enable / disable the energy harvester system when not needed. Signals sent to the ECU 48 include, but are not limited to, the charging state (low charge, full charge, etc.) of the primary battery 40 and / or the storage battery 300, the charging state (charging, not charging) of the primary battery 40 and / or the storage battery 300, and the presence or absence of a wired AC / DC converter 200.

[0069] Power is transmitted from the primary battery 40 or storage battery 300 to the ECU 48, which manages the power delivery to the door lock 30 and / or electrical device 36. During power transfer, as shown in Figures 4 and 16, the power passes through a power output regulator 308 between the ESSM 302 and the ECU 48. The power output regulator 308 regulates the power so that the system can use it efficiently. For example, the power output regulator 308 adjusts the voltage to meet the requirements of the different electrical devices 36 and / or to power the door lock 30. The power output regulator 308 also monitors and limits the current flow to prevent excessive current that may damage the power source.

[0070] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the logic used by the MMLC 306 to manage power usage in the system. This logic allows the ECU to directly source harvested power from different external energy sources to charge the storage batteries (300 and 40) and power the electrical devices of the system. The MMLC 306 first determines (box 400) whether line power (wired connection to the power source 60) is available. If line power is connected (wired directly to the power source 60), the line power is used to power the rest of the system (box 428) and, if necessary, charges the primary battery 40 (box 402) by enabling (box 401) that power is routed to the primary battery charger 43. At the same time, if necessary, the external energy harvester system 66 is enabled (box 404) only to charge the storage battery 300 (box 406). If the battery 300 does not need to be charged, the energy harvester is disabled (box 430), thereby stopping charging the battery (box 432).

[0071] In the absence of line power, line power to the primary battery charger 43 is disabled (box 408). If necessary, the primary battery 40 is charged (box 402) by routing power from the storage battery 300 to the primary battery 40 (box 410). However, at the same time, the external energy harvester system 66 is disabled (box 412), thereby disabling the charging of the storage battery 300, preventing the storage battery 300 from being charged and discharged at the same time (box 414). While the primary battery 40 is being charged with energy stored in the storage battery 300, the storage battery 300 is also used to power the rest of the system (box 416). If there is no need to charge the primary battery 40, the supply of power from the storage battery 300 to the primary battery 40 is disabled (box 418), thereby disabling the charging of the primary battery 40 (box 420). At the same time, power from the primary battery 40 is used to power the system (box 422). Once the primary battery 40 is used to power the system (box 422), an external energy harvester system (box 424) is enabled to charge (box 426) the rechargeable battery 300. If there is no need to charge the rechargeable battery 300, the energy harvester is disabled (box 434), thereby stopping charging the rechargeable battery (box 436).

[0072] The above description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention has been presented for illustrative purposes in accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments disclosed herein have been selected to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, so that those skilled in the art can best utilize the present invention with various embodiments and various modifications suited to the particular use intended, provided that they comply with the principles described herein. Thus, changes can be made to the invention as described above without departing from its spirit and scope. It is also intended that the scope of the present invention be defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. a door frame with a fixed opening; a door pivotally secured to the door frame; a plurality of DC electrical devices secured to at least a first side of the door; a rechargeable primary battery secured within the door and electrically connected to the electrical device; a first battery charger system configured to charge the primary battery; a rechargeable battery secured within the door and electrically connected to the electrical device and the first battery charger; a second battery charger system configured to charge the battery; and an energy harvester system including one or more of an RF and electromagnetic wave energy harvester, a solar energy harvester, a mechanical energy harvester, or a combination thereof; The door assembly, wherein the energy harvester system is configured to charge the storage battery via the second battery charger system.

2. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first battery charger is configured to receive power from the storage battery.

3. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the solar energy harvester is secured to the door such that a solar panel is exposed to ambient solar radiation.

4. The door assembly of claim 3 , wherein the door includes a door panel that is slidable over the solar energy harvester to cover the solar energy harvester.

5. 5. The door assembly of claim 4, wherein the door panel is powered.

6. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the solar energy harvester is secured to a bottom of the door.

7. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the solar energy harvester is disposed within a door light.

8. The door assembly of claim 7 , wherein a door slat within the door light includes the solar energy harvester.

9. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the solar energy harvester is positioned on an exterior side of the door, separate from the door.

10. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical energy harvester is fixed within the door.

11. 11. The door assembly of claim 10, wherein the mechanical energy harvester includes a flexible cantilever beam held on a fixed rigid support, a front piezoelectric plate held on a front surface of the flexible cantilever beam, a rear piezoelectric plate held on a rear surface of the flexible cantilever beam, and a proof mass held at a free distal end of the cantilever beam.

12. 10. The door assembly of claim 1, wherein the mechanical energy harvester includes an elongated casing, an electromagnetic coil secured to one distal end of the casing, and a magnet secured within the casing and linearly movable relative to the electromagnetic coil.

13. 13. The door assembly of claim 12, wherein the magnet is resiliently biased toward the electromagnetic coil by a coil spring.

14. The door assembly of claim 1 , wherein the energy harvester system further includes a power regulator and an energy capture circuit for each of the RF and electromagnetic wave energy harvester, the solar energy harvester, and the mechanical energy harvester.

15. A door assembly as described in claim 1, wherein at least one of the primary battery and the storage battery is located within a compartment within the door.

16. 10. The door assembly of claim 1, further comprising a wired connection from the door to a power source, the wired connection configured to charge the primary battery via the first battery charger and the storage battery via the second battery charger.

17. The frame and door skins fixed to both sides of the frame; a plurality of DC electrical devices fixed to the door skin or the frame; a rechargeable primary battery fixed between the door skins and connected to the electrical device; a first battery charger system configured to charge the primary battery; a rechargeable battery secured between the door skins and electrically connected to the electrical device and the first battery charger; a second battery charger system configured to charge the battery; an energy harvester system including one or more of an RF and electromagnetic wave energy harvester, a solar energy harvester, a mechanical energy harvester, or a combination thereof; The door, wherein the energy harvester system is configured to charge the storage battery via the second battery charger system.

18. 18. The door of claim 17, wherein the first battery charger is configured to receive power from the storage battery.

19. 18. The door of claim 17, wherein the solar energy harvester is secured to the door such that a solar panel is exposed to ambient solar radiation.

20. 20. The door of claim 19, wherein the door includes a door panel that is slidable over the solar energy harvester to cover the solar energy harvester.

21. 21. The door of claim 20, wherein the door panel is powered.

22. 20. The door of claim 19, wherein the solar energy harvester is secured to a bottom portion of the door.

23. 20. The door of claim 19, wherein the solar energy harvester is disposed within a door light.

24. 24. The door of claim 23, wherein a door slat within the door light includes the solar energy harvester.

25. 20. The door of claim 17, wherein the solar energy harvester is positioned on an exterior side of the door, separate from the door.

26. 18. The door of claim 17, wherein the mechanical energy harvester is fixed within the door.

27. 27. The door of claim 26, wherein the mechanical energy harvester includes a flexible cantilever beam held on a fixed rigid support, a front piezoelectric plate held on a front surface of the flexible cantilever beam, a rear piezoelectric plate held on a rear surface of the flexible cantilever beam, and a proof mass held at a free distal end of the cantilever beam.

28. 27. The door of claim 26, wherein the mechanical energy harvester includes an elongated casing, an electromagnetic coil secured to one distal end of the casing, and a magnet secured within the casing and linearly movable relative to the electromagnetic coil.

29. 27. The door of claim 26, wherein the magnet is resiliently biased toward the electromagnetic coil by a coil spring.

30. 18. The door of claim 17, wherein the energy harvester system further includes a power regulator and energy capture circuitry for each of the RF and electromagnetic wave energy harvester, the solar energy harvester, and the mechanical energy harvester.

31. A door as described in claim 17, wherein at least one of the primary battery and the storage battery is located within a compartment within the door.

32. 18. The door of claim 17, further comprising a wired connection from the door to a power source, the wired connection configured to charge the primary battery via the first battery charger and the storage battery via the second battery charger.

33. providing a frame; fastening door skins to both sides of the frame; securing a plurality of DC electrical devices to at least a first side of the door; securing a rechargeable primary battery within the door and electrically connecting it to the electrical device; providing a battery charger configured to charge the primary battery; securing a rechargeable battery within the door and electrically connecting the rechargeable battery to the electrical device and the first battery charger system; providing a second battery charger configured to charge the battery; providing an energy harvesting system including one or more of an RF and electromagnetic wave energy harvester, a solar energy harvester, a mechanical energy harvester, or a combination thereof; The method of manufacturing a door, wherein the energy harvester system is configured to charge the storage battery via the second battery charger system.

34. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising providing a wired connection from the door to a power source, the wired connection configured to charge the primary battery via the first battery charger and the storage battery via the second battery charger.

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