Threshold-Based Doorbell Switching for Remote Notification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional doorbell systems are limited in notifying remotely located individuals of a visitor's arrival, as the notification sound is typically only audible within a short distance from the chime, making it difficult for homeowners to be aware of a visitor when they are not nearby.
Innovation Solution
A doorbell system comprising an electronic doorbell with a camera and button, an electronic switch assembly, and a transformer, where the electronic switch assembly blocks or allows electricity to pass through to an electronic chime based on voltage thresholds, enabling remote notification sounds via a speaker, and potentially including digital music playback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional doorbell chimes are used, then the notification sound can be produced, but the sound can only be heard within a short distance from the chime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a notification device as an intermediary component between the chime and remote locations. This device receives the notification signal from the chime and re-transmits it through communication interfaces (wireless or wired) to reach occupants at various distances, effectively extending the audible range beyond the physical limitations of the chime itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If digital chimes are used to play a wider variety of sounds, then the notification capability is improved, but the electricity consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements selective activation where only the necessary notification components are activated based on the situation. The notification device can be configured to use only the minimal required sound variety and duration needed to alert occupants, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption from playing extended music sequences or using all available sound options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows configuration of notification parameters such as sound duration, volume level, and sequence patterns. By adjusting these parameters, the system can achieve effective notification with reduced energy consumption - for example, using shorter notification sequences or lower volume levels when occupants are nearby, thereby reducing the electricity required by digital chimes.
3Reliability
If the notification sound duration is extended to ensure remote occupants hear it, then the notification reliability is improved, but the electricity consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notification system implements conditional duration control where the sound plays only for the minimum time necessary to ensure reliable notification. The system can detect whether occupants are present and adjust the notification duration accordingly, avoiding excessive playing time when occupants are already aware, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the notification device monitors whether the notification has been successfully received by occupants (through sensors or communication interfaces). Based on this feedback, the system can terminate the notification early if occupants are already aware, or extend it if needed, optimizing the balance between reliability and energy consumption rather than using fixed extended durations.
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 remote notification of a visitor's arrival to individuals located further away from the doorbell, ensuring they are aware of the visitor regardless of their proximity, with the ability to customize notification duration and type.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic switch assembly may define a first state and a second state. The first state may occur in response to a first electricity that is less than a first threshold, and the second state may occur in response to a second electricity that is greater than the first threshold.
Implementation Method 2
In the first state the electronic switch assembly may block the first electricity from passing through the electronic chime so that the electronic chime does not emit a notification sound. In the second state the electronic switch assembly may allow the second electricity to pass through the electronic chime so that the electronic chime emits the notification sound.
Implementation Method 3
an electronic chime electrically coupled to the electronic switch assembly, wherein the electronic chime comprises a speaker configurable to emit a notification sound in response to the visitor pressing the button of the electronic doorbell
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using a doorbell system can block a first electricity that is less than a first threshold from entering an electronic chime. By blocking the first electricity from entering the electronic chime, the electronic chime is not allowed to emit a notification sound. The method for using the doorbell system can also allow a second electricity that is greater than the first threshold to enter the electronic chime. By allowing the second electricity to enter the electronic chime, this can allow the electronic chime to emit a notification sound in response to a visitor being present.