Peephole Viewer Camera System with External Motion Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door-mounted camera systems for home monitoring, such as video doorbells, often require installation outside the door, which is not allowed by many homeowners' associations and landlords, and they alert passersby to being recorded, whereas peephole viewer camera devices need to replace the existing peephole viewer and are bulky.
Innovation Solution
A door-mounted peephole viewer camera system that does not require replacing the existing peephole viewer, is simpler and easier to install, remains unobtrusive, and uses external motion sensors to extend battery life, allowing for temporary use without alerting passersby to being recorded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a camera module with button is mounted on the outside-facing side of the door over the peephole, then remote monitoring is enabled, but passersby are alerted to being recorded and the door appearance is altered
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is nested inside a housing that fits over the existing peephole viewer from the inside of the door. The peephole viewer itself acts as part of the housing structure, providing camouflage and blending the camera system into the existing door assembly. This nesting approach allows the camera to remain hidden while maintaining monitoring functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The peephole viewer serves as an intermediary element between the camera module and the external environment. It provides a structural interface that allows the camera to observe through the peephole opening while the housing obscures the camera from external view. The peephole mechanism mediates both the optical path for monitoring and the aesthetic appearance of the door.
2Reliability
If a bulky module is installed over the peephole on both sides of the door, then camera functionality is achieved, but the installation becomes complex and the door appearance is altered
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is segmented into two main parts: a camera module that attaches to the existing peephole viewer from the inside, and a separate housing that fits over the peephole from the outside. This segmentation allows the camera functionality to be added without requiring modification of the door structure itself, simplifying installation and removal while maintaining full camera functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the camera module, acts as a camouflage cover to hide the camera from view, and integrates with the existing peephole mechanism. By making the housing multi-functional, the design avoids adding unnecessary complexity while achieving camera monitoring goals.
3Duration of action of moving object
If PIR sensor is used to detect activity, then battery life is extended, but the sensor cannot operate through opaque materials or glass
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a PIR sensor that would require direct line of sight through the peephole, the system uses the existing peephole optical path as a 'copy' or alternative detection mechanism. The camera captures visual information that serves the same purpose as PIR motion detection, allowing activity monitoring without the limitations of infrared sensor operation through opaque materials.
Data Source
AI summary
Assemblies, sensors, methods of attachment, communication networks, and operational processes of a door-mounted camera apparatus 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. Another embodiment includes a key-holder magnet.