Doorbell Chime Rectifier Switching for AC Wiring Direction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing doorbell systems, particularly electronic ones, face inconvenience during installation due to the need to determine the direction of AC current, which is not clearly indicated, leading to inefficiencies and wasted time and effort.

Innovation Solution

A smart doorbell system with a chime circuit that includes a first and second rectifier circuit, allowing selection of the applicable current direction through a control signal, enabling the correct direct current to be provided to the ring circuit, thus simplifying the installation process without requiring disassembly or reinstallation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an electronic doorbell driven by DC direct voltage is installed using household AC current, then the doorbell can function with beautiful musical ringing sounds, but the worker cannot determine the current direction in advance during installation, causing inconvenience and wasted time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoorbell functionVSAvoidinstallation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a switchable rectifier circuit configuration that can dynamically change its current direction adaptability. The control module switches between first and second rectifier circuits based on the detected AC current direction, enabling the doorbell to adapt to different wiring scenarios without requiring disassembly or reinstallation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameter adaptability by using two rectifier circuits with opposite current direction configurations. The control module detects the AC current direction and switches between rectifier circuits accordingly, allowing the system to accommodate both possible AC current directions without fixed wiring requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a fixed rectifier circuit configuration is used in the doorbell, then the circuit structure is simple, but the installation requires determining AC current direction and may require disassembly if the direction is incorrect

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit structureVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent prepares both first and second rectifier circuits in advance within the doorbell device, each configured for different AC current directions. The control module detects the actual AC current direction during installation and activates the appropriate rectifier circuit, eliminating the need for preliminary direction determination or potential disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the doorbell circuit universally adaptable to both AC current directions by incorporating two rectifier circuits with opposite configurations. The control module selects the appropriate rectifier circuit based on the detected current direction, allowing the same device to function correctly regardless of wiring orientation without requiring disassembly or reinstallation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This solution allows for efficient and convenient installation by enabling the selection of the correct direct current direction, simplifying the construction process and achieving smart installation by adjusting the control signal, thereby reducing installation complexities.

Implementation Method 1

The chime circuit at least includes a power connection terminal IN, a first rectifier circuit 140, and a second rectifier circuit 150. The power connection terminal IN receives an alternating current AC from a power device 102. The alternating current AC includes a first direction current I1 and a second direction current I2 that alternate.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentEP3879504B1Smart doorbell system and chime circuit
Publication Date: 2023.12.27 PEGATRON
  • EP3879504B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3879504B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3879504B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A smart doorbell system includes a doorbell switch, an input device, a chime circuit, and a ring circuit. A chime circuit includes a power connection terminal and a first rectifier circuit and a second rectifier circuit coupled to the power connection terminal and connected in parallel. The power connection terminal receives an alternating current including a first direction current and a second direction current that alternate. The input device is coupled to the chime circuit and generates a control signal. The control signal controls one of the first and second direction currents to pass through a corresponding one of the first and second rectifier circuits. The doorbell switch is coupled to the chime circuit and the ring circuit. A trigger signal is generated through the other one of the first and second direction currents when the doorbell switch is pressed, such that the ring circuit produces a ringing sound.