Image capture doorbell device

Abstract

To provide a compact, space-efficient battery-powered doorbell camera.SOLUTION: The architecture of an image capture doorbell device is optimized by concentrating sensors on one end of a device and a user input mechanism on the opposite end, with a thin, narrow central portion between the two opposing ends. The sensors include an image sensor and a PIR sensor mounted on the same PCB to save space. A camera lens protrudes from the outer surface of the IR window, aligned with the IR LEDs, to mitigate IR flare. The PIR sensor is aligned with a lens that enhances radial motion detection by implementing two stacked rows of lenslets. The user input mechanism includes a light ring, which is formed with the button via a two-shot molding technique to bond the light ring to the button for enhanced waterproofing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] background With the advancement of electronic doorbells to capture images and / or video, many users have begun to rely on their doorbell image data to determine whether a package has been delivered or taken. Package detection algorithms can be applied to the doorbell data to generate and send a notification to the user when a package is detected (e.g., a package is delivered to the user's front steps) or when a package on their front steps is no longer detected (e.g., the package is collected for delivery or stolen). Users can also use the doorbell image data to see and / or identify people approaching their front steps.

[0002] Many conventional electronic doorbells can be large and bulky, which can degrade the user experience. Some challenges that arise when building an electronic doorbell with a small form factor can include thermal management, antenna isolation, interference between different sensors, and infrared (IR) flare in the camera lens. Summary of the Invention

[0003] overview This document describes an image capturing doorbell device. In several aspects, the image capturing doorbell device provides a compact, space-efficient, battery-powered doorbell camera. The architecture of the image capturing doorbell device is optimized by concentrating the sensors on one end of the device and the user input mechanism on the opposite end of the device, and including a thin, narrow central section between the two opposing ends. The sensors include an image sensor and a passive infrared (PIR) sensor mounted on the same printed circuit board (PCB) to save space. The camera lens is configured to capture IR signals to mitigate IR flare. The PIR sensor is mounted on a lenslet (e.g., a Fresnel-type lens) protruding from the outer surface of the IR window aligned with a light-emitting diode (LED). The sensor is aligned with a lens that enhances radial motion detection by realizing two stacked rows of 1000x ...

[0004] According to one aspect, an image capturing doorbell device includes a housing and an IR cover that forms an annular shape with a central aperture. The IR cover can be located on a front surface of the housing. The image capturing doorbell device also includes a camera module that includes a camera lens with an axis center perpendicular to the front surface of the housing. The camera lens extends through the annular central aperture of the IR cover and protrudes a predetermined distance from an outer surface of the IR cover to mitigate IR flare.

[0005] According to one aspect, an image capturing doorbell device includes a housing having an elongated shape with opposing first and second ends. Each of the first and second ends may have a generally radial curvature and intersect a longitudinal axis of the housing. The housing includes a generally planar front surface having a generally oval shape. The image capturing doorbell device also includes a button located on the front surface proximate the second end of the housing, the button having an oval shape. The image capturing doorbell device also includes a light ring located along a periphery of the button, the light ring configured to diffuse light generated by one or more light sources within the housing.

[0006] According to one aspect, an image capture doorbell device includes a housing, an IR lens located on a front surface of the housing, and a PIR sensor positioned within the housing and aligned with the IR lens. The IR lens includes an array of lenslets, each including a set of concentric annular segments usable to create a field of view for the PIR sensor, the array of lenslets including a first row of lenslets stacked on top of a second row of lenslets. Furthermore, each lenslet in the first row is paired with a respective lenslet in the second row to form a vertically stacked pair of lenslets, each pair of vertically stacked lenslets providing a pair of overlapping field of view cones for increased sensitivity. The lenslets in the second row of lenslets may be larger in size than the lenslets in the first row of lenslets. The PIR sensor may have increased sensitivity to motion detection through the second row of lenslets compared to the first row of lenslets based on the larger size of the lenslets in the second row compared to the lenslets in the first row. Additionally, a second row of lenslets may provide a field of view cone for the PIR sensor that is focused at a downward angle relative to the axial center of the PIR sensor.

[0007] According to one aspect, an image capturing doorbell device includes a housing, a button, and a light ring architecture. The button has an oval shape, and the light ring architecture includes a light ring positioned along the periphery of the button. The light ring architecture is configured to diffuse light generated by one or more light sources within the housing. The light ring may be concentric with the button and flush with an outer surface of the button. The light ring may also include a diffusing material to allow light generated by the one or more light sources within the housing to pass through the light ring. The light ring may be bonded to the button via a two-shot molding technique. The light ring architecture may also include a light guide positioned between one or more LEDs and the button. The light guide is configured to guide light from the one or more LEDs toward the light ring. The light ring architecture may also include multiple diffusing flanges. The multiple diffusing flanges provide structural support to the button and are distributed around the periphery of the light guide, allowing light exiting the light guide to pass through the multiple diffusing flanges toward the light ring.

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce simplified concepts related to image capturing doorbell devices, which are further described below in the detailed description and drawings. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for use in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Details of one or more aspects of the image capturing doorbell device are described in this document with reference to the following drawings: The use of the same reference numbers in different instances in the description and drawings indicates similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary electronic device and an exploded view of some of its components. [Figure 2]2 is an exploded view of some components of the electronic device of FIG. 1, including a camera module and a PIR sensor. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the electronic device of FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic device taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 5 is an enlarged view of a first portion (eg, the camera end) of the cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates an example implementation of the sensor printed circuit board of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 5 is an enlarged view of a second portion (eg, the button end) of the cross-sectional view of the electronic device of FIG. 4. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a rear view of an example implementation of the PIR lens of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a top view of the FOV of a PIR sensor using the PIR lens of FIG. 8. [Figure 10A] 9 is an exemplary side view of the FOV of a PIR sensor using the PIR lens of FIG. 8 following the radial movement of an adult. [Figure 10B] 9A-9C are exemplary side views of the FOV of a PIR sensor using the PIR lens of FIG. 8 following the radial movement of a child. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system including an exemplary device that may be implemented as any electronic device (e.g., the electronic device of FIG. 1) that implements aspects of asymmetric camera sensor positioning as described with reference to FIGS. 1-10B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Detailed Description Overview This document describes an image capturing doorbell device. The techniques described herein provide an image capturing doorbell device including a housing, an IR cover, a button, a light ring, and a camera module. The housing has an elongated shape with opposing first and second ends, each of which has a generally radial curvature and intersects a longitudinal axis of the housing. The housing also includes a generally planar front surface having a generally oval shape. The IR cover forms an annular shape with a central aperture. The IR cover is located on the front surface of the housing proximate the first end. A button is located on the front surface proximate the second end of the housing, the button having an oval shape. The light ring is located along the periphery of the button and configured to diffuse light generated by a light source within the housing. The camera module is located proximate the first end of the housing. The camera module includes a camera lens having an axis centered approximately perpendicular to the front surface of the housing. Additionally, the camera lens extends through an annular-shaped central aperture of the IR cover and protrudes a predetermined distance from the outer surface of the IR cover to mitigate IR flare.

[0012] The IR cover includes a PIR lens having an array of lenslets, each lenslet forming at least a portion of a Fresnel lens. The lenslet array includes two stacked rows of lenslets for enhanced radial motion detection. For example, the two stacked rows of lenslets provide a pair of vertically overlapping field of view cones, with the PIR sensor biased for increased sensitivity in the bottom field of view cone of the pair, and the bottom field of view cone focused at a downward angle from horizontal (and below the top field of view cone of the pair).

[0013] To save space, the image capturing doorbell device also includes an image sensor and a PIR sensor mounted on the same side of a PCB, with the PCB having separate ground planes separated by a physical cutout in the PCB. Additionally, the image capturing doorbell device also includes a light ring architecture that allows for a relatively large, waterproof button and a bright light ring. In some aspects, the light ring architecture includes a diffusing flange that provides structural support for the button and allows light to pass through the diffusing flange toward the light ring and exit the housing.

[0014] Although the features and concepts of the described image capturing doorbell device may be implemented in any number of different environments, aspects are described in the context of the following example.

[0015] Exemplary Apparatus 1 illustrates an exemplary electronic device 100 (e.g., a doorbell camera) and an exploded view 102 of some of its components. Electronic device 100 connects to a wireless network 104 (e.g., via a wireless router) to capture audio and / or video data (including images or streaming video) and transmit the captured data to online storage. They may support a variety of functions, including capturing and storing captured data in local memory, playing audio (e.g., music, news, podcasts, sports), and interacting with virtual assistants to perform tasks (e.g., searching the internet, scheduling events and alarms, controlling home automation, controlling internet-of-things (IoT) devices).

[0016] The electronic device 100 includes a housing formed by one or more housing members, including a front housing member 106 (e.g., a front cover) and a rear housing member 108 (e.g., a rear component), and multiple PCBs, including at least a main logic board (MLB) 110, a sensor PCB 112, and an IR PCB 114. Additional PCBs may also be used. The PCBs may include a system-on-chip (SoC) device, a processor, and various integrated circuit (IC) components, including LEDs, a microphone, or sensors for detecting inputs such as touch input, button presses, motion, light, or voice commands. In one example, the SoC device and antenna system 116 may be mounted on the MLB 110. A camera module 118 (e.g., a camera) and a PIR sensor 120 may both be mounted on the sensor PCB 112. One or more IR LEDs may also be mounted on the IR PCB 114, for example to provide IR light for motion detection by the PIR sensor 120. Electronic device 100 also includes a battery 122, a user input mechanism (e.g., button 124), a speaker module 126, and a wall plate 128. In addition, electronic device 100 includes a thermal control system, which may include one or more heat spreaders (e.g., heat spreaders 130, 132, and 134) and one or more thermal interface materials (TIMs) (e.g., TIMs 136, 138, and 140), such as thermal gels, thermal pastes, thermal adhesives, or thermal tapes having high thermal conductivity. In some aspects, heat spreader 130 may also serve as an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield for the SoC devices mounted on MLB 110.

[0017] The housing members 106 and 108 may comprise a plastic material and be formed, for example, using plastic injection molding techniques. The housing members 106 and 108 may comprise any suitable geometry, including the exemplary geometry shown in FIG. 1 . For example, the front housing member 106 and the rear housing member 108 may form complementary portions of shells (e.g., hollow, generally oval shells) that fit together (e.g., snap together) to form cavities for housing various components of the electronic device 100. In some implementations, the front housing member 106 and / or the rear housing member 108 may include multiple parts that are assembled together. The front housing member 106 may also include an aperture. The aperture is aligned with the camera lens 142 of the camera module 118 to allow the camera module 118 to look through the aperture and capture an image or video of a scene. As described in more detail herein, the lens 142 may extend through an aperture in the front housing member 106 so as to protrude a predetermined distance from the outer surface of the front housing member 106 to reduce or prevent IR flare (e.g., leakage of IR light from the IR LEDs on the IR PCB 114 into the camera lens 142).

[0018] Button 124 may include any suitable button that can be used to initiate a function (e.g., a mechanical button for opening and closing a switch, a capacitive sensor for detecting a user touch). For example, actuation of button 124 may initiate functions including ringing an audible doorbell, sending an electronic notification to the doorbell owner's smartphone, initiating camera module 118, etc. Activating button 124 may initiate any suitable function. Button 124 may be used to reduce space and maintain a small form factor for electronic device 100. The button 124 may be aligned with the MLB 110 so as to hold the button 124 in place. The button 124 may have an outer shape that is any suitable two-dimensional shape, including an oval, a rectangle, or any other polygonal shape. In some aspects, the oval shape may have a circular shape with two concentric foci.

[0019] As described in further detail herein, the button 124 includes a light ring 144 positioned along the periphery of the button 124. In aspects, the light ring 144 is concentric with the button 124 and provides a cosmetic outline for the button 124. The light ring 144 is configured to allow light (e.g., light generated by one or more LEDs mounted on the MLB 110 and positioned to emit light toward the rear side of the button 124) to exit the housing through the front housing member 106. As light passes through the light ring 144 surrounding the button 124, the light can be used to indicate the location of the button and to provide visual feedback to the user (e.g., by increasing and / or decreasing brightness, flashing, changing color).

[0020] Speaker module 126 may output sound waves toward the front and / or sides of electronic device 100 (e.g., lateral sides perpendicular to front surface 146 of front housing member 106). Speaker module 126 may allow a person (e.g., a user pressing button 124) to hear an audible message, including a recorded voice message or a real-time voice transmission, from the owner of the doorbell.

[0021] Battery 122 provides power to electronic device 100, allowing electronic device 100 to be wireless. Because electronic device 100 is battery-powered, electronic device 100 can be mounted in any suitable location without the need to wire electronic device 100 to a power source. For example, electronic device 100 (e.g., a recording doorbell) can be mounted in a home near the front door without the need to drill holes in the home to connect wiring to a power source inside the user's home.

[0022] The PCBs (e.g., MLB 110, sensor PCB 112, IR PCB 114) may be formed from, for example, a glass-reinforced epoxy material such as FR4. In some cases, the PCBs include a single layer of conductive traces and may be single-layer boards. In other cases, the PCBs may be multi-layer boards that include multiple layers of conductive traces separated by layers of dielectric material.

[0023] As described herein, the housing of electronic device 100 includes an elongated shape (e.g., generally oval in front view) having a longitudinal axis 148 intersecting first and second opposing ends of the housing, each end having a generally radial curvature. In one example, each of the first and second opposing ends is curved about at least one axis generally perpendicular to longitudinal axis 148. Camera module 118 is positioned proximate the first end (e.g., camera end 150) of electronic device 100. For example, the optical axis of camera module 118 may be aligned with the radial center of curvature of camera end 150 of electronic device 100. Button 124, antenna system 116, and speaker module 126 are positioned proximate the second end (e.g., button end 152) of the housing. For example, the central axis of button 124 may be aligned with the radial center of curvature of button end 152 of electronic device 100. In one aspect, the edge of button 124 can be located within a range of 0.5 millimeters (mm) to 2 mm (including, for example, 1.0 mm) from the edge of the second end of the housing. When electronic device 100 is assembled, battery 122 is positioned between camera end 150 and button end 152 and within central portion 154 of the housing.

[0024] The antenna system 116 can be any suitable antenna system mounted on a PCB (e.g., MLB 110). For example, the antenna system 116 can be a conductive trace (e.g., copper) forming one or more antennas (e.g., a dual antenna system). 1. Therefore, the antenna of the antenna system 116 may be printed on the MLB 110. In some aspects, the antenna of the antenna system 116 may be printed on the side of the MLB 110 that faces the button 124 and that also has one or more IC components (e.g., an SoC) mounted thereon. The antenna system 116 may be located proximate to the button-side end 152 of the electronic device 100. Locating the antenna system 116 on the button-side end 152 mitigates the adverse effects on antenna efficiency caused by the camera module 118. To mitigate the adverse effects of the wall plate 128 on antenna performance and efficiency, the MLB 110 on which the antenna system 116 rests is positioned proximate to the front housing member 106 such that the antenna system 116 is positioned between the battery 122 and the front housing member 106. Thus, the battery 122 is positioned between the MLB 110 and the rear housing member 108, and the rear housing member 108 is positioned between the battery 122 and the wall plate 128. Thus, the wall panel 128 may be mounted to a rear exterior surface 156 of the rear housing member 108. When the rear housing member 108 is assembled with the front housing member 106, the rear exterior surface 156 is opposite the front surface 146 of the front housing member 106.

[0025] 2 shows an exploded view 200 of several components of the electronic device 100 of FIG. 1, including the camera module 118 and the PIR sensor 120. The exploded view 200 shows the sensor PCB 112, which has a first surface 202 and an opposing second surface 204. The PIR sensor 120 and the camera module 118 are mounted to the first surface 202 of the sensor PCB 112. In particular, an image sensor (not shown in FIG. 2) of the camera module 118 is mounted to the sensor PCB 112. The image sensor is positioned behind the camera lens 142 to capture image data of a scene within the field of view of the camera lens 142.

[0026] The exploded view 200 also shows the TIM 140 positioned between the heat spreader 134 and the second side 204 of the sensor PCB 112. In the assembled state, the TIM 140 is in thermal contact with the sensor PCB 112 and the heat spreader 134. In particular, the TIM 140 is positioned proximate the second side 204 of the sensor PCB 112 and directly across from the camera module 118. With this arrangement, the TIM is configured to conduct heat from the camera module 118 to the heat spreader 134, which in turn conducts the heat to a heat sink and / or to the housing of the doorbell camera.

[0027] In some cases, the heat spreader 134 may include one or more flanges 206 and / or one or more alignment pins 208. The flanges 206 and alignment pins 208 may, in some cases, position the heat spreader 134 relative to the sensor PCB 112 such that thermal contact (e.g., for thermal conduction) between the features of the sensor PCB 112 and the heat spreader 134 is optimized. In some cases, the flanges 206 may also function as mechanical ridges that contribute to a desired thickness and / or compression of the TIM 140.

[0028] In some aspects, the TIM 140 may include a thermal pad. Examples of thermal pads include silicone- or paraffin-wax-based preformed solid materials. The TIM 140 may provide a path for conducting heat generated by the PIR sensor 120 and the image sensor of the camera module 118 to the heat spreader 134. The heat spreader 134 may transfer the generated heat to other elements (e.g., the first housing component 106 and / or the second housing component 108 shown in FIG. 1 ) through convection and / or radiation. In some cases, a hybrid graphite sheet (not shown in FIG. 2 ) may also be attached to one or more surfaces of the heat spreader 134.

[0029] FIG. 3 shows an isometric view 300 of the electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration. The camera-side end 150 of the electronic device 100 includes an IR cover that protrudes from the first face 146 of the electronic device 100. For example, the IR cover includes a PIR lens 302 and an IR window 304. The PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304 together form an annular shape (e.g., a ring shape having an outer diameter and an inner diameter) that defines a central aperture 306. The PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304 may be separate components assembled together or positioned adjacent to each other. In another example, the PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304 may be different parts of a single component or may be joined together to form a single component. When the electronic device 100 is assembled, the camera lens 142 of the camera module 118 (of FIG. 2) extends through the central aperture 306 and protrudes from the outer surfaces of the PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304. In some aspects, the camera lens 142 is positioned relative to the surrounding components so that the axial center of the camera lens 142 is approximately perpendicular to the front surface 146 of the housing 106 .

[0030] The IR window 304 may include an IR-transmissive material that allows IR light from the IR LEDs on the IR PCB 114 (of FIG. 1 ) to pass through the IR window 304. In another example, the IR window 304 may (i) include an IR-opaque material to prevent the IR light from passing through the material itself, and (ii) define one or more apertures 308 through which the IR LEDs may provide the IR light. The IR-opaque material may prevent the IR light from leaking into the camera lens 142 of the camera module 118.

[0031] The PIR lens 302 may include an IR-transmitting material that allows IR light reflecting from one or more objects to pass through the PIR lens 302. The PIR sensor 120 (of FIG. 2) is positioned behind the PIR lens 302 and can receive the IR light that passes through the PIR lens 302 to detect object motion. The PIR lens 302 may include any suitable lens usable by the PIR sensor 120 to receive IR reflections, examples of which include a Fresnel lens.

[0032] At the button-side end 152 of the electronic device 100, the button 124 and the light ring 144 may be substantially flush with the front surface 146 of the electronic device 100. The button 124 and / or the light ring 144 may have a shape and / or size that substantially matches the outer shape and / or size of the IR cover (e.g., the PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304). In one example, the button 124 may have a diameter that is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the IR cover at the camera-side end 150. In another example, the light ring 144 has an outer diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the IR cover.

[0033] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view 400 of electronic device 100 taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3. A first portion 402 (e.g., camera end 150) of cross-sectional view 400 of electronic device 100 of Figure 4 is shown in Figure 5. A second portion 404 (e.g., button end 152) of cross-sectional view 400 of electronic device 100 of Figure 4 is shown in Figure 7.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 4 , the speaker module 126 is aligned with a portion (e.g., bottom portion 406) of the button 124 when the MLB 110 is positioned between the speaker module 126 and the button 124. Another portion (e.g., top portion 408) of the button 124 is aligned with or overlaps the battery 122 in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the front surface 146 (e.g., horizontally) when the MLB 110 is positioned between the button 124 and the battery 122. The battery 122 is positioned in a central portion 154 of the housing and extends partially into a camera-side end 150 and a button-side end 152. The battery 122 is also positioned longitudinally between the speaker module 126 at the button-side end 152 and the camera module 118 at the camera-side end 150. Further details of the camera-side end 150 are described with respect to FIG. 5 .

[0035] FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view 500 of a first portion 402 (e.g., camera end 150) of the cross-sectional view 400 of the electronic device 100 of FIG. 4 . As shown, a camera lens (e.g., camera lens 142) is positioned between the IR window 304 and the PIR lens 302. Thus, the camera lens 142 is positioned between the IR LED 502 configured to provide IR light for passing through the IR window 304 and the PIR sensor 120 configured to receive IR light reflected from an object and passing through the PIR lens 302. The camera lens 142 protrudes a first distance 504 from the outer surface of the IR cover (e.g., the PIR lens 302 and the IR window 304). Thus, the camera lens 142 is not positioned behind a cover material (e.g., a cover glass), resulting in fewer components and reduced manufacturing costs. The first distance 504 is predetermined based on the characteristics (e.g., FOV) of the camera lens 142 and the proximity and relationship of the camera lens 142 to the IR window 304. For example, first distance 504 is sufficient to mitigate IR flare (e.g., IR light traveling through IR window 304 and leaking into camera lens 142). In some aspects, first distance 504 is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. In this manner, IR light traveling through IR window 304 cannot enter the camera lens. First distance 504 may be greater for a 160° lens than for a 140° lens, for example.

[0036] Central portion 154 (shown in FIG. 4 ) is narrower in the front-to-back dimension than camera-side end 150. For example, IR cover (e.g., PIR lens 302 and IR window 304) protrudes a second distance 506 from front surface 146 of front housing member 106. Second distance 506 may be any suitable distance sufficient to allow central portion 154 and button-side end 152 (shown in FIG. 4 ) to be as thin as possible while providing sufficient interior space for camera module 118 and PIR sensor 120 at camera-side end 150.

[0037] The camera module 118 includes an image sensor 508 mounted to the sensor PCB 112. As described further herein, the PIR sensor 120 and the image sensor 508 are mounted on the same PCB (e.g., the sensor PCB 112). Also, both the PIR sensor 120 and the image sensor 508 are mounted on the same side (e.g., the first side 202) of the sensor PCB 112. In some aspects, the image sensor 508 may be mounted on a substrate 510 that is mounted directly to the sensor PCB 112.

[0038] Typically, the image sensor (for image capture) and the PIR sensor (for motion detection) each use a lens to better perform their respective functions. Each sensor and lens combination has a different focal length. Mounting the PIR sensor 120 and the image sensor 508 on the same PCB is more space- and cost-efficient than conventional devices that use different PCBs and planes for the image sensor and the PIR sensor. However, if both sensors are mounted on the same PCB, the focal lengths of both sensor and lens combinations may need to be coordinated, which is not trivial because both sensors, although independent, are located on the same plane and their respective lenses are also on the same plane.

[0039] 6 shows an example implementation 600 of the sensor PCB 112 of FIG. 1. The PIR sensor 120 (of FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5) is sensitive to heat not only from absolute steady-state temperature, but also from thermal loads from a transient standpoint, to the extent that some rapid transient thermal loads can cause significant damage to the PIR sensor 120. As an example, a transient thermal load greater than, for example, a temperature rise of 1 Kelvin / second can cause significant damage to the PIR sensor 120. When an object is detected and the image sensor 508 is activated (e.g., turned on), the image sensor 508 dissipates power (e.g., approximately 290 milliwatts of power), which generates heat. To provide a buffer and prevent heat from reaching the PIR sensor 120, the sensor PCB 112 includes a recessed ground plane and physical cutouts (e.g., apertures). The plane separation and physical cutouts in the sensor PCB 112 isolate the heat from the PIR sensor 120.

[0040] In the illustrated example, the sensor PCB 112 includes a first ground plane 602 and a second ground plane 604 that is thermally isolated from the first ground plane 602. In one example, the metal layering features forming the first ground plane 602 and the second ground plane 604 are independent of one another without a shared metal path for conducting electrical and / or thermal energy. Additionally, the sensor PCB 112 defines a cutout (e.g., a slot 606) that thermally separates the first ground plane 602 from the second ground plane 604. As shown, the slot 606 is oriented longitudinally in a direction substantially perpendicular to a line connecting the first ground plane 602 to the second ground plane 604.

[0041] The first ground plane 602 and the second ground plane 604 are ground planes for different sensors. For example, the first ground plane 602 may be a ground plane for a PIR sensor (e.g., PIR sensor 120 of FIGS. 1 and 2), and the second ground plane 604 may be a ground plane for an image sensor (e.g., image sensor 508 of FIG. 5). Due to the thermal isolation of the first ground plane 602 from the second ground plane 604, heat transfer between the sensors is significantly reduced or prevented. In some cases, the first ground plane 602 and the second ground plane 604 may be formed from a material (e.g., a copper material) having thermal conductivity and / or thermal capacitance.

[0042] FIG. 7 shows a close-up view 700 of the second portion 404 (e.g., button end 152) of the cross-sectional view 400 of the electronic device 100 of FIG. 4 . Here, the button 124 includes a light ring architecture with a light ring (e.g., light ring 144) integrated with the button 124. Both the button 124 and the light ring architecture have a small z-stack but a relatively large outer diameter. The light ring architecture may include an array of LEDs 702 and a light guide 704. The light path (e.g., the path along which light generated by the array of LEDs 702 travels) is shared with the button travel area (e.g., the area within the housing along which the button 124 travels when subjected to an external compressive force). The LEDs 702 may be top-emitting LEDs that emit light toward the light guide 704 positioned on the rear side of the button 124. Any suitable number of LEDs may be implemented, including four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, etc. In one example, eight LEDs are implemented, which may have intensities substantially within the range of 500 to 3000 millicandela (mcd).

[0043] The light guide 704 is positioned directly above (e.g., in the z-direction) the array of LEDs 702. In some aspects, the light guide 704 has total internal reflection (TIR) ​​for light at the 45° surface 706, and the light inside (e.g., The light guide 704 also has a TIR on the inner surface (e.g., inner surface 708). Additionally, a reflective material (e.g., reflective tape 710) can be positioned between the light guide 704 and the button 124 to reduce light leakage and increase optical efficiency. In the illustrated example, the reflective tape 710 is located on the opposite side of the light guide 704 from the array of LEDs 702.

[0044] The light ring architecture also includes a plurality of diffusing flanges 712 that diffuse and transmit light. In aspects, the diffusing flanges 712 are transparent to allow light to pass through. The diffusing flanges 712 do not block light from exiting through the light ring 144. Any suitable number of diffusing flanges 712, including two, three, four, etc., may be arranged around the periphery of the light guide 704. The diffusing flange 712 may be implemented around the periphery of the button 124. The diffusing flange 712 may mitigate hot spots based on the diffusing resin used to form the diffusing flange 712 and their geometry. The diffusing flange 712 also provides structural support to the button 124 (e.g., "snap" fit onto the light guide 704 to support the button 124 in place). The diffusing flange 712 provides a resistive force against the light guide 704 in a direction toward the interior of the electronic device 100, while the flexible button component 714 applies a biasing force against the central region of the light guide 704 in an opposite direction (e.g., outward toward the back side of the button 124). When the button 124 is pressed, the flexible button component 714 moves in a direction perpendicular to the MLB 110 and may directly connect to a switch on the MLB 110 to open or close the switch. Connecting the button 124 and its components directly to the MLB 110 enhances space savings in the architecture of the electronic device 100.

[0045] The light ring 144 is formed with the button 124 via a two-shot molding technique. Specifically, the button 124 is a first shot of plastic material, and the light ring 144 is a second shot of plastic material that is diffusive and formed in a ring shape around the button 124 (when viewed from the front). In some aspects, the light ring 144 is flush with the outer surface of the button 124. The button 124 and the light ring 144 may be flush with the front surface 146 of the front housing member 106. Using the two-shot molding technique, the light ring 144 and the button 124 are chemically bonded together without any gaps or seams between them, which reduces the number of parts involved and also enhances waterproofing. The light ring 144 may have any suitable width (e.g., the distance between the inner and outer diameters). Exemplary widths of the light ring 144 include widths substantially within the range of 0.25 mm to 1.0 mm (including widths of 0.5 mm). The light generated by the array of LEDs 702 exits through the light ring 144 .

[0046] Arrow 716 represents the general path of light generated by the array of LEDs 702. For example, light is emitted directly from the LEDs 702 into the light guide 704 (e.g., in the z-direction), reflects off a 45° surface 706 within the light guide 704, and travels in a direction toward the perimeter of the light guide 704 (and toward the perimeter of the button 124). The light continues through the light guide 704 and reflects off the interior 708 of the light guide 704. The light may travel through and / or around the diffusing flange 712 toward the light ring 144. The light ring 144 diffuses the light, and the diffused light exits the light guide 704 toward the exterior of the housing.

[0047] Additionally, a reflective material 718 (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET)) may be positioned between the diffusing flange 712 and the housing's structural support 720 (and between the structural support 720 and the light ring 144). The reflective material 718 reduces light leakage by reflecting light toward the light ring 144.

[0048] 8 shows a back view 800 of an example implementation of the PIR lens 302 of FIG. 3. A typical motion sensor has a high detection capability for objects moving laterally across the sensor's FOV (e.g., from left to right or right to left from the sensor's perspective). This lateral motion may be referred to as tangential motion. In contrast, conventional motion sensors have a lower detection capability for objects moving directly toward (or away from) the sensor, which is referred to herein as radial motion.

[0049] In the illustrated example, PIR lens 302 includes Fresnel lens features that enhance the FOV of PIR sensor 120 (of FIG. 1). In particular, PIR lens 302 as described herein provides (i) enhanced radial motion detection for adults assuming a flat approach to electronic device 100, (ii) enhanced radial motion detection for adults when there are stairs leading to electronic device 100, and (iii) enhanced (tangential and radial) motion detection for children. Enables exit.

[0050] Continuing, the PIR lens 302 includes an array of lenslets 802 (e.g., lenslets 802-1 through 802-8). Each lenslet 802 includes a set of concentric annular sections that form at least a portion of a Fresnel lens. From the perspective of the PIR sensor 120, the lenslets 802 provide a FOV that is narrower than the sensor FOV. Using multiple lenslets 802 creates multiple separate, smaller FOVs for the PIR sensor 120, which are called field-of-view cones. Depending on the arrangement of the lenslets 802, adjacent field-of-view cones may overlap or have gaps between them. Further details of field-of-view cones are described below with respect to FIG. 9.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8 , the PIR lens 302 includes multiple rows of lenslets 802, including a first row 804 (e.g., lenslets 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, and 802-4) stacked on top of a second row 806 (e.g., lenslets 802-5, 802-6, 802-7, and 802-8). A single row of lenslets 802 enhances the horizontal FOV for the PIR sensor 120 and is effective at detecting tangential motion, but is less efficient at detecting radial motion because the PIR sensor 120 detects changes in incident heat. Generally, a person approaching radially (e.g., directly toward the PIR sensor 120) provides a slow change in incident heat, and the PIR sensor 120 responds by providing a low signal corresponding to the slow change in incident heat. By implementing the first row 804 of lenslets 802 with the second row 806 of lenslets 802, detection of radial motion is significantly enhanced. In aspects, PIR sensor 120 detects a more rapid change in incident heat corresponding to a radially approaching person through second row 806 of lenslets 802 than through first row 804 of lenslets 802. This is because second row 806 of lenslets 802 is focused at a downward angle from horizontal and because more parts of the person's body are detected as the person approaches electronic device 100 (e.g., feet are detected first, then legs, then torso). As described in more detail herein, second row 806 of lenslets 802 also enhances motion detection for shorter people (e.g., children) or for people approaching from below, for example, up porch steps.

[0052] PIR sensor 120 may be aligned with PIR lens 302 at location 808 to provide an optimal FOV for PIR sensor 120 when electronic device 100 is mounted at a reasonable height for a doorbell. Note that sensor alignment location 808 is offset from a dividing line 810 between lenslets 802-2 and 802-6 (and between lenslets 802-3 and 802-7). This offset, combined with the distance (e.g., focal length) between PIR lens 302 and PIR sensor 120, defines the direction of the field of view cone created by each lenslet 802. PIR sensor 120 may also have multiple (e.g., two) sensor elements positioned horizontally alongside PIR lens 302. Using two sensor elements doubles the number of field of view cones relative to the number of lenslets 802. In the illustrated example, the PIR lens 302 includes eight lenslets 802 and the PIR sensor 120 has two sensor elements, which results in a 16 field of view cone.

[0053] In addition, each of the vertical pairs of lenslets 802 (e.g., lenslets 802-1 and 802-5, lenslets 802-2 and 802-6, lenslets 802-3 and 802-7, and lenslets 802-4 and 802-8) provide vertically overlapping field of view cones, further details of which are shown in FIG. 10. The lenslets 802 in the second row 806 are larger than the lenslets in the first row 804. In particular, the lenslets 802 in the second row have larger areas and / or heights than the lenslets 802 in the first row 804. The larger areas and / or larger heights of the lenslets may increase the amount of light produced by the lenslets. 10 , the vertical offset of the PIR sensor 120 relative to the vertical center of the second row 806 of lenslets 802 creates a cone of view that is directed downward from the horizontal, which is useful in detecting motion at smaller distances. Additionally, the lenslets 802 are shaped, sized, and configured to have a substantially uniform sensitivity across the cone of view created by the first row 804 of lenslets 802 and a substantially uniform sensitivity across the cone of view created by the second row 806 of lenslets 802.

[0054] Continuing, FIG. 9 shows a top view 900 of the FOV of a PIR sensor 120 using the PIR lens 302 of FIG. 8. The illustrated example shows eight field of view cones 902, which correspond to the first row of lenslets 804 of FIG. 8. The PIR sensor 120 can have an overall horizontal FOV (hFOV) 904 of any suitable range, and each field of view cone 902 can have an hFOV 906 of any suitable range that is smaller than the overall hFOV 904. In one example, the overall hFOV 904 of the PIR sensor 120 is substantially within the range of 90° to 180° (e.g., 110°). In yet another example, the hFOV 906 of each field of view cone 902 is substantially within the range of 5° to 12° (e.g., 8°). In some aspects, gaps 908 exist between the field of view cones 902, and the PIR sensor 120 cannot detect motion in the gaps 908. The gaps 908 may have a gap size 910 that is substantially in the range of 1° to 10° (e.g., 7°). Including gaps 908 between the field of view cones 902 provides horizontally independent and separate field of view cones, increasing the efficiency of tangential motion detection by the PIR sensor 120. For example, a person crossing multiple field of view cones 902 may be easily detected based on changes in radiation (e.g., heat) generated by the user and detected by the PIR sensor 120.

[0055] Generally, a PIR sensor is more sensitive toward the center of the overall hFOV 904 and less sensitive toward the sides of the overall hFOV 904. Using PIR lens 302, for example, central inner field of view cone 902-1 may have a radius 912 of approximately 25 feet (ft) (7.62 meters (m)), and outer field of view cone 902-2 may have a radius 914 of approximately 20 ft. Because users typically mount electronic device 100 close to the standard location for a doorbell (next to the front door of a home), visitors typically approach the home (and electronic device 100) in the inner field of view cone and less in the outer field of view cone.

[0056] 10A and 10B, which show example side views 1000 and 1050 of the FOV of PIR sensor 120 using PIR lens 302 of FIG. 8, following the radial motion of an adult ( FIG. 10A ) and a child ( FIG. 10B ). In the illustrated example, a pair of vertically stacked field of view cones 902 (e.g., top field of view cone 902-3 and bottom field of view cone 902-4) are shown for electronic device 100. Top field of view cone 902-3 corresponds to field of view cone 902 in first row 804 of lenslets 802 in PIR lens 302 of FIG. 8, which includes field of view cones 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, and 902-4. 8, including 902-5, 902-6, 902-7, and 902-8. In the illustrated example, electronic device 100 is mounted to a wall at a height 1002 of approximately 4 ft 2.8 inches (in) (1.29 m) such that the axis center (e.g., axis 1004) of PIR sensor 120 is approximately 5 feet (1.524 m) above the ground at a distance 1006 of 25 ft, with the ground having a downward slope 1008 of approximately 2° from a horizontal axis 1010 that is perpendicular to the wall on which electronic device 100 is mounted. However, electronic device 100 is mounted to a wall at a height 1002 of approximately 4 ft 2.8 inches (in) (1.29 m) such that the axis center (e.g., axis 1004) of PIR sensor 120 is approximately 5 feet (1.524 m) above the ground at a distance 1006 of 25 ft. It may be mounted at any suitable height. Generally, the doorbell may be mounted at a height within the range of 3.5 ft (1.067 m) to 4.5 ft (1.372 m).

[0057] The upper field of view cone 902 is oriented to include a volume above an axis 1004 of the PIR sensor 120. In one example, the upper boundary of the upper field of view cone 902 (e.g., upper boundary 1012) can be substantially within the range of 1° to 10° above the axis 1004 (including 3°). In addition, the bottom field of view cone 902 is oriented below the upper field of view cone 902 at a downward angle, which can be any suitable angle below the axis 1004. For example, the bottom field of view cone 902 can be oriented at a downward angle within the range of 10° to 30° below the axis 1004 (including 13°). In one example, the lower boundary of the bottom field of view cone 902 (e.g., lower boundary 1014) can be substantially within the range of 20° to 45° below the axis 1004 (including 27°). The example 1000 also shows a person 1016 (eg, an adult) approximately 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) tall approaching the electronic device 100 .

[0058] Note that there is an overlap 1018 between the top field of view cone 902-3 and the bottom field of view cone 902-4, which enhances the detection of radial motion. The upper limit of the bottom field of view cone 902 may reach a distance 1006 of approximately 25 feet (assuming a downward slope 1008 of the ground). Thus, if a person 1016 approaches within distance 1006, the person 1016 enters the bottom field of view cone 902-4, and the amount of radiation (e.g., heat) detected by the PIR sensor 120 increases rapidly. The detected increase is due to the overlap 1018 and the bottom field of view cone 902 because the PIR lens 302 is adjusted to allow the PIR sensor 120 to have higher sensitivity in the bottom field of view cone 902-4 than in the top field of view cone 902-3. If there is a rapid change in incident radiation, the PIR sensor 120 may output a signal. The increase in detected radiation caused by the bottom field of view cone 902-4 allows the person 1016 to be detected sooner. Also, as the person 1016 moves radially closer to the PIR sensor 120, more of the person's body falls into the bottom field of view cone 902-4, which causes a rapid change in the incident radiation detectable by the PIR sensor 120.

[0059] Similarly, a short person (e.g., a child 1020) approaching the electronic device 100 in a radial direction may be detected as they enter the bottom field of view cone 902-4. In a radial approach, the PIR sensor 120 of a conventional camera doorbell having only a single row of lenslets may have difficulty detecting the child 1020 because much of the child's body is below the corresponding field of view cone. However, by implementing the second row 806 of lenslets 802 to create the bottom field of view cone 902-4, the PIR sensor 120 detects a rapid change in incident heat corresponding to the child 1020 as the child 1020 enters one or more of the bottom field of view cones 902-4 and moves radially closer to the PIR sensor 120, causing a greater portion of the child's body to enter the bottom field of view cone 902-4.

[0060] In some cases, there may be a staircase leading up to the electronic device 100 that allows the person to be substantially below the upper field of view 902. The bottom field of view 902 allows for enhanced motion detection of the person 1016 or child 1020 as they climb the staircase because they are radially approaching the electronic device 100 from substantially within the bottom field of view 902.

[0061] Exemplary Computing System 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example system 1100 including an example device 1102 that may be implemented as any electronic device (e.g., the electronic device of FIG. 1) that implements aspects of an image capturing doorbell device as described with reference to FIGS. 1-10B. The example device 1102 may be any type of computing device, client device, mobile phone, tablet, communication, entertainment, gaming, media playback, and / or other type of device. The exemplary device 1102 may also be implemented as any other type of electronic device configured for communication over a network, such as a thermostat, doorbell, hazard detector, camera, light unit, commissioning device, router, border router, joiner router, junction device, terminal device, reader, access point, hub, and / or other electronic device. The exemplary device 1102 may be integrated with electronic circuitry, a microprocessor, memory, input / output (I / O) logic control, communication interfaces and components, and other hardware, firmware, and / or software for communicating over the network. The device 1102 may also be implemented using a variety of components, for example, any number and combination of different components as described further below.

[0062] The device 1102 includes a communications unit 1104 that enables wired and / or wireless communication of device data 1106, such as data communicated between devices in a network, data being received, data scheduled for broadcast, data packets, data synchronized between devices, etc. Device data may include any type of communications data, as well as audio, video, and / or image data generated by applications running on the device. The communications unit 1104 may also include a transceiver for cellular communications and / or network data communications. The communications unit 1104 may include radio systems for multiple different wireless communication systems. The wireless systems may include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile broadband, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and / or point-to-point IEEE 802.15.4. Each of the different wireless systems may include a radio, antenna, and chipset implemented for a specific wireless communication technology.

[0063] The device 1102 also includes input / output (I / O) interfaces 1108, such as data network interfaces that provide connections and / or communication links between the device and data networks (e.g., internal networks, external networks, etc.) and other devices. The I / O interfaces may be used to couple the device to any type of component, peripheral, and / or accessory device. The I / O interfaces also include data input ports through which any type of data, media content, and / or input, e.g., user input to the device, and any type of communication data, such as audio, video, and / or image data received from any content and / or data source, may be received.

[0064] The device 1102 includes a processing system 1110, which may be implemented at least in part in hardware, such as having any type of microprocessor, controller, etc., that processes executable instructions. The processing system may include integrated circuits, programmable logic devices, logic devices formed using one or more semiconductors, and other silicon and / or hardware implementations, such as processor and memory system components implemented as a system-on-a-chip (SoC). Alternatively, or in addition, the device may be implemented using any one or combination of software, hardware, firmware, or fixed logic that may be implemented using processing and control circuits. The device 1102 may also include any type of system bus or other data and command transfer system that couples various components within the device. The system bus may include any one or combination of different bus structures and architectures, and control and data lines.

[0065] The apparatus 1102 may also include computer-readable storage devices, such as data storage devices, that are accessible by a computing device and that provide persistent storage of data and executable instructions (e.g., software applications, modules, programs, functions, etc.). The computer-readable storage memory 1112 includes a functional storage memory 1112. Computer-readable storage memory as described herein excludes propagating signals. Examples of computer-readable storage memory include volatile and non-volatile memory, fixed and removable media devices, and any suitable memory device or electronic data storage that maintains data for computing device access. Computer-readable storage memory may include various implementations of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory, and other types of storage memory in a variety of memory device configurations.

[0066] The computer-readable storage memory 1112 provides storage for device data 1106 and various device applications 1114, e.g., an operating system, which is maintained as a software application using the computer-readable storage memory and executed by the processing system 1110. The device applications may also include a device manager, such as any form of control application, software application, signal processing and control module, code specific to a particular device, a hardware abstraction layer for a particular device, etc. In this example, the device applications also include a smart home application 1116 that, for example, implements aspects of an image capturing doorbell device when the exemplary device 1102 is implemented as any of the electronic devices described herein. The device 1102 also includes a power source 1118, such as a battery 122. An alternating current (AC) power source is also used to charge the device's battery. This may be done.

[0067] In aspects, at least some of the techniques described for electronic device 100 may be implemented in a distributed system, such as through a “cloud” 1120, in a platform 1122. Cloud 1120 includes and / or represents a platform 1122 for services 1124 and / or resources 1126.

[0068] Platform 1122 abstracts the underlying functionality of the hardware, such as server devices (e.g., included in services 1124) and / or software resources (e.g., included as resources 1126), and communicatively connects the exemplary device 1102 to other devices, servers, etc. Resources 1126 may also include applications and / or data that may be utilized while computer processing is running on a server remote from the exemplary device 1102. In addition, services 1124 and / or resources 1126 may facilitate subscriber network services, such as over the Internet, a cellular network, or a Wi-Fi network. Platform 1122 may also function to abstract and scale resources to service demand for resources 1126 implemented via the platform, such as in an implementation of interconnected devices with functionality distributed throughout system 1100. For example, functionality may be implemented in part in the exemplary device 1102 and via platform 1122 abstracting the functionality of cloud 1120.

[0069] Some examples are provided below. The image capturing doorbell device includes a housing having an elongated shape with opposing first and second ends, each of the first and second ends having a generally radial curvature intersecting a longitudinal axis of the housing, the housing including a generally planar front surface having a generally oval shape, the image capturing doorbell device further including an IR cover forming an annular shape with a central aperture, the IR cover being located on the front surface of the housing proximate the first end, the image capturing doorbell device further including a button positioned on the front surface proximate the second end of the housing, the button having an oval shape, and the image capturing doorbell device further including a light ring positioned along a periphery of the button, the light ring being generated by a light source within the housing. The image capturing doorbell device is configured to diffuse the generated light, and further includes a camera module positioned proximate the first end of the housing, the camera module including a camera lens having an axis center substantially perpendicular to the front surface of the housing, the camera lens extending through an annular-shaped central aperture of the IR cover and protruding a predetermined distance from an outer surface of the IR cover to mitigate IR flare.

[0070] An IR cover may protrude from the front surface of the housing. The IR cover may include a PIR lens and an IR window. The PIR lens and the IR window may each include an IR-transmitting material.

[0071] The image capturing doorbell device may further include one or more IR LEDs aligned with the IR window, a PIR sensor aligned with the PIR lens, and an image sensor aligned with the camera lens.

[0072] The camera lens may protrude from the outer surface of the IR cover in a direction generally perpendicular to the front surface of the housing.

[0073] The PIR lens can be aligned with the PIR sensor. The PIR lens can include an array of lenslets, each including a set of concentric annular segments usable to create a field of view cone for the PIR sensor. The array of lenslets can include a first row of lenslets stacked on top of a second row of lenslets.

[0074] Each lenslet in the first row can be paired with a respective lenslet in the second row to form a vertically stacked lenslet pair, and each pair of vertically stacked lenslets can provide a pair of overlapping field cones for increased sensitivity.

[0075] The lenslets in the second row of lenslets may have a larger size than the lenslets in the first row of lenslets, and the PIR sensor may have increased sensitivity to motion detection through the second row of lenslets compared to the first row of lenslets based on the larger size of the lenslets in the second row compared to the lenslets in the first row.

[0076] A second row of lenslets may provide a field of view cone for the PIR sensor that is focused at a downward angle relative to the axial center of the PIR sensor.

[0077] The PIR lens may be shaped as part of a ring having a curved outer edge and a curved inner edge, and the array of lenslets may be located between the curved outer edge and the curved inner edge.

[0078] The image capturing doorbell device may further include a sensor printed circuit board (PCB), where the PIR sensor and the image sensor are mounted on the same side of the sensor PCB.

[0079] The sensor PCB may include a separate ground plane for each of the PIR sensor and the image sensor. The sensor PCB may define a slot that separates the ground planes.

[0080] The light ring may be concentric with the button and flush with an outer surface of the button. The light ring may include a diffusive material to allow light generated by the one or more light sources within the housing to pass through the light ring.

[0081] The light ring may include a diffusive material to allow light generated by the one or more light sources within the housing to pass through the light ring.

[0082] The image capturing doorbell device may further include one or more LEDs mounted on the main logic board and oriented to emit light toward a rear side of the button, and a light guide positioned between the one or more LEDs and the button, the light guide configured to guide light from the one or more LEDs toward the light ring.

[0083] The image capturing doorbell device may further include a plurality of diffusing flanges that provide structural support to the button and are distributed around the periphery of the light guide to allow light exiting the light guide to pass through the plurality of diffusing flanges toward the light ring.

[0084] conclusion Although aspects of the image capturing doorbell device have been described in feature and / or method-specific language, the subject matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the particular features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as example implementations of the claimed image capturing doorbell device, and other equivalent features and methods are intended to be within the scope of the appended claims. Also, it should be understood that a variety of different aspects have been described, and that each described aspect can be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more other described aspects.

Claims

1. An image capturing doorbell device, comprising: a housing having an elongated shape with opposing first and second ends, each of the first and second ends having a generally radial curvature intersecting a longitudinal axis of the housing, the housing including a generally planar front surface having a generally oval shape, the image capturing doorbell device further comprising: an infrared (IR) cover forming an annular shape with a central aperture, the IR cover positioned on the front surface of the housing adjacent the first end, the image capturing doorbell device further comprising: a button on the front surface positioned proximate the second end of the housing, the button having an oval shape; a light ring positioned along a periphery of the button, the light ring configured to diffuse light generated by one or more light sources within the housing; an image capturing doorbell device including a camera module positioned proximate the first end of the housing, the camera module including a camera lens having an axis centered substantially perpendicular to the front surface of the housing, the camera lens extending through the annular-shaped central aperture of the IR cover and protruding a predetermined distance from an outer surface of the IR cover;

2. the IR cover protrudes from the front surface of the housing; the IR cover includes a PIR lens and an IR window; The image capturing doorbell device of claim 1 , wherein the PIR lens and the IR window each comprise an IR-transmitting material.

3. one or more IR light emitting diodes (LEDs) aligned with the IR window; a passive infrared (PIR) sensor aligned with the PIR lens; The image capturing doorbell device of claim 2 further comprising an image sensor aligned with the camera lens.

4. The image capturing doorbell device of claim 3 , wherein the camera lens protrudes from the outer surface of the IR cover in a direction generally perpendicular to the front surface of the housing.

5. the PIR lens includes an array of lenslets each including a set of concentric annular segments usable to create a field of view cone for the PIR sensor; 5. The image capturing doorbell device of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the array of lenslets comprises a first row of lenslets stacked on top of a second row of lenslets.

6. each lenslet in the first row is paired with a respective lenslet in the second row to form a vertically stacked lenslet pair; 6. The image capture doorbell device of claim 5, wherein each pair of vertically stacked lenslets provides a pair of overlapping field of view cones for increased sensitivity.

7. the lenslets in the second row of lenslets have a larger size than the lenslets in the first row of lenslets; 7. The PIR sensor according to claim 6, wherein the PIR sensor has increased sensitivity to motion detection through the second row of lenslets compared to the first row of lenslets based on the larger size of the lenslets in the second row compared to the lenslets in the first row. The image capturing doorbell device described.

8. 8. An image capturing doorbell device as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the second row of lenslets provides a field of view cone for the PIR sensor that is focused at a downward angle relative to an axial centre of the PIR sensor.

9. the PIR lens is shaped as part of a ring having a curved outer edge and a curved inner edge; The image capturing doorbell device of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the array of lenslets is located between the curved outer edge and the curved inner edge.

10. The image capturing doorbell device of any one of claims 3 to 9, further comprising a sensor printed circuit board (PCB), wherein the PIR sensor and the image sensor are mounted on the same side of the sensor PCB.

11. the sensor PCB includes a separate ground plane for each of the PIR sensor and the image sensor; The image capturing doorbell device of claim 10 , wherein the sensor PCB defines a slot separating the ground planes.

12. the light ring is concentric with the button and flush with the outer surface of the button; 10. The image capturing doorbell device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light ring includes a diffusing material to allow light generated by the one or more light sources within the housing to pass through the light ring.

13. The image capturing doorbell device of claim 12 , wherein the light ring is bonded to the button via a two-shot molding technique.

14. one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on the main logic board and oriented to emit light toward the rear side of said button; 14. The image capturing doorbell device of claim 12 or claim 13, further comprising a light guide positioned between the one or more LEDs and the button, the light guide configured to guide the light from the one or more LEDs towards the light ring.

15. The method further includes a plurality of diffusion flanges, the plurality of diffusion flanges comprising: providing structural support for the button; distributed around the periphery of the optical waveguide; The image capturing doorbell device of claim 14 , wherein the light exiting the light guide is allowed to travel through the plurality of diffusing flanges toward the light ring.

Images