Dual Camera Peephole Viewer with Rotating Mirror
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door peephole viewer camera systems require installation over the peephole, are bulky, and alert passers-by to monitoring, and high-resolution image sensors consume too much power, making continuous operation infeasible.
Innovation Solution
A dual-camera system with a low-resolution, ultra-low power sensor for continuous operation and a high-resolution sensor activated on detection, integrated with a rotating mirror to switch between views, allowing unobtrusive installation without altering the peephole viewer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-resolution image sensor is used for continuous monitoring, then video quality is improved, but power consumption increases making continuous operation infeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two camera modules based on operational needs. The low-resolution camera operates continuously for motion detection and basic monitoring, while the high-resolution camera is activated only when motion is detected or upon user request, optimizing the balance between video quality and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring function is segmented into two distinct camera modules with different resolutions. The low-resolution camera handles continuous operation and motion detection, while the high-resolution camera handles detailed recording only when needed, dividing the workload to reduce overall power consumption
2Ease of operation
If a camera module with button is mounted on the outside-facing side of the door, then remote monitoring capability is improved, but it alerts passers-by to being recorded
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is nested within the existing peephole viewer structure. The camera module is positioned inside the door behind the peephole, using the peephole's housing and structure to conceal the camera. This allows the camera to capture images of visitors approaching the door without being visible to them, eliminating the alerting effect while maintaining monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The peephole viewer structure serves as an intermediary that conceals the camera from visitors while still allowing it to capture their images. The camera is positioned to view through or near the peephole area, using the peephole's physical structure as a natural camouflage that prevents visitors from noticing the monitoring device
3Adaptability or versatility
If the current peephole viewer is removed or altered to install a camera system, then camera functionality is improved, but the door's appearance is altered and installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with existing peephole viewers, making the camera system compatible with doors that already have peepholes installed. The camera module integrates with the peephole's existing structure and housing, allowing the peephole to serve both its original viewing function and the new camera monitoring function simultaneously, avoiding the need to remove or alter the peephole
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module is pre-configured to interface with standard peephole viewer structures. The mounting mechanism and housing are designed in advance to fit within existing peephole assemblies, eliminating the need for complex installation procedures that would require removing or modifying the original peephole viewer
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
Provides high-quality video monitoring without altering the door's appearance, extends battery life, and allows easy installation and removal, suitable for rental units where camera installation is restricted.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating mirror to switch between views
Data Source
AI summary
Assemblies, sensors, methods of attachment, communication networks, and operational processes of a door-mounted camera apparatus with two integrated camera modules, for use with a door's peephole viewer. Some embodiments include a door bracket for attaching the camera apparatus to the door using removable adhesive or embedded magnets. Embodiments may include a movable mirror assembly which may be operated by a hand or by electrically powered mechanical actuator. Some embodiments include a peephole viewer apparatus with integrated sensors. Embodiments can include a digital display for viewing the camera's video output. Some embodiments can include a wired or wireless external sensor module which may detect whether a person is present in front of the door.