Doorbell Button Integrating Image Sensor and Infrared Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio/video doorbell systems are bulky and lack a streamlined design, which can hinder their aesthetic appeal and space efficiency, while also not effectively capturing images in low-light conditions.
Innovation Solution
Integrating an image sensor or camera into the doorbell button, allowing it to actuate the doorbell's tone and initiate recording or transmission, and incorporating infrared light-emitting components to enhance low-light image capture, thus reducing the doorbell's size and improving its appearance and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the image sensor is integrated into the doorbell button, then the doorbell size is reduced and appearance is improved, but the button structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor is integrated into the doorbell button assembly, merging the imaging function with the existing button structure. This allows the button to serve dual purposes: as a physical actuator for doorbell activation and as a housing for the image sensor, thereby reducing overall device size while consolidating components
Solution Approach 2:
The doorbell button is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a mechanical switch for doorbell activation, provides structural housing for the image sensor, and allows light transmission for image capture. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall device volume
2Illumination intensity
If the button is made optically transparent or translucent, then light can pass through to the image sensor, but the button material options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The button material is selected and engineered with specific optical parameters (transparency or translucency) to allow light transmission to the image sensor. This parameter change in material properties enables the button to fulfill both mechanical actuation and optical transmission functions, though it does constrain material selection
3Measurement precision
If infrared light-emitting components are added, then low-light image capture is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infrared light-emitting components are integrated into the existing doorbell structure, merging the illumination function with the housing and button assembly. This reduces the need for separate external lighting components and minimizes overall device complexity while enabling low-light imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The infrared light-emitting components are positioned and configured in advance within the doorbell structure to provide illumination before the image sensor needs to capture low-light images. This preliminary preparation of lighting conditions ensures optimal image capture quality in low-light environments
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
The solution allows for a more compact and visually appealing doorbell design while enabling clear image capture under various lighting conditions, enhancing home security and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
the button comprises an optically transparent or translucent material such that ambient light may pass through the button to impinge upon the image sensor
Implementation Method 2
infrared (IR) light-emitting components configured to enable the image sensor to clearly capture images under conditions of low ambient light
Data Source
AI summary
Audio/video recording and communication doorbells, comprising a housing and an image sensor or camera. The image sensor or camera may be located behind or integrated with an actuating button of the doorbell, and may serve the actuating function of the doorbell so that the doorbell does not require a discrete button separate from the image sensor or camera.