AC Waveform Communication in Doorbell Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional doorbell systems do not provide a means for advanced audio and video (A/V) devices to communicate with signaling devices without inadvertently causing the signaling device to emit sound, and they lack electronics for data communication between devices.
Innovation Solution
The use of alternating current (AC) power waveforms to communicate between A/V devices and signaling-control devices in a doorbell circuit, where the A/V device and signaling-control device modulate the AC current waveform to transmit instructions and data, using signal relays to control the flow of current and bypass the signaling device when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If A/V devices are integrated into traditional doorbell circuits, then advanced functionality (audio/video communication) is added, but the signaling device may be inadvertently triggered to emit sound
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the doorbell circuit into distinct functional components: a signaling device for sound emission, a signaling-control device for controlling the signaling device, and A/V devices for audio/video communication. This segmentation allows each component to operate independently with defined communication protocols, preventing unintended sound emission while maintaining advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a signaling-control device as an intermediary between the A/V devices and the signaling device. This intermediary modulates AC power waveforms to communicate with A/V devices and controls the flow of current to the signaling device, ensuring that sound is emitted only when intentionally triggered through proper communication protocols.
2Device complexity
If traditional doorbell circuits are used, then simplicity is maintained, but no data communication between devices is possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the AC power waveform serve multiple functions: it simultaneously provides power to the devices and carries communication data through modulation. The signaling-control device modulates the AC power waveform to transmit instructions and data to A/V devices, eliminating the need for separate communication wiring while enabling full data exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters of the AC power waveform (such as voltage levels, frequency modulation, or timing characteristics) to encode communication data. By varying these parameters, the system can transmit multiple types of information through the existing power lines without adding complex communication infrastructure.
3Reliability
If signal relays are used to control current flow, then communication between devices is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of communication control and power management into a single signaling-control device. This device uses signal relays to control current flow to both the signaling device and A/V devices, consolidating control functions and reducing overall system complexity despite the addition of relay components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables A/V devices to operate without triggering the signaling device unnecessarily, allowing for effective communication between devices while ensuring the signaling device is only activated when intended, thus enhancing the functionality of A/V doorbell systems without unintended sound emission.
Implementation Method 1
the A/V device and signaling-control device may use AC power waveforms to communicate instructions and/or data between each other using the doorbell circuit. In some examples, the A/V device and signaling-control device may modulate phase portions of an AC current waveform, or a sequence of phases of the AC current waveform, to communicate with each other
Implementation Method 2
using signal relays to control the flow of current and bypass the signaling device when necessary
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes techniques for using alternating current (AC) power waveforms to communicate between devices in a doorbell circuit. A signaling device that emits sound may be positioned in the doorbell circuit between an AC power source and a doorbell device (such as an A/V device including a doorbell). A signaling device may be coupled in parallel to a signaling-control device that includes electronic circuitry that provides a selective bypass to allow for larger amounts of current drawn by the A/V device to bypass the signaling device without causing the signaling device to emit the sound. The A/V device and the signaling-control device may use AC power waveforms to communicate data and/or data between each other. For example, the A/V device and the signaling-control device may control respective signal relays to selectively open and close the doorbell circuit in order to communicate with each other using the AC current waveform.