Threshold-Based Electronic Switch for Doorbell Chime Protection

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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 ringing the doorbell when they are not nearby.

Innovation Solution

A doorbell system comprising an electronic doorbell with a camera and button, an electronic switch assembly, and an electronic chime with a speaker, where the switch assembly blocks or allows electricity to pass through the chime based on a threshold voltage, enabling the chime to emit a notification sound only when a predetermined higher voltage is maintained, allowing remote notification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenotification sound intensityVSAvoidaudible distance
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (electronic doorbell with camera and microphone, wireless transmitter) that mediates between the visitor at the door and the remote homeowner. The electronic doorbell captures visual and audio signals, transmits them wirelessly to a remote device, enabling notification beyond the limited audible range of traditional chimes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If digital chimes are used to play a wider variety of sounds, then the notification capability is enhanced, but the electricity consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenotification sound varietyVSAvoidelectricity consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic doorbell system operates periodically rather than continuously - the camera and microphone activate only when motion is detected or the doorbell button is pressed. The wireless transmission occurs in periodic bursts rather than continuous operation, reducing overall electricity consumption while maintaining diverse notification capabilities when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Productivity

If the electronic switch assembly allows electricity to pass through the electronic chime, then the notification sound is emitted, but the chime cannot be protected from excessive electricity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenotification sound emissionVSAvoidchime protection
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic switch assembly acts as an intermediary between the power source and the electronic chime. It monitors electricity levels and selectively allows or blocks current flow based on detected voltage thresholds, protecting the chime from excessive electricity while enabling normal operation when appropriate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic switch assembly changes its electrical state based on detected voltage parameters. When excessive voltage is detected, the switch changes state to block current flow, protecting the chime. When normal voltage is present, the switch allows current flow to enable notification sound emission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 individuals to be alerted of a visitor's arrival through a notification sound, even when they are not in close proximity to the doorbell, enhancing awareness and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage threshold detection: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

an electronic chime comprising a speaker configurable to emit a notification sound in response to the visitor pressing the button of the electronic doorbell

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroacoustic conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS8953040B1Doorbell communication and electrical systems
Publication Date: 2015.02.10 SKYBELL TECH IP LLC
  • US8953040B1 patent drawing
  • US8953040B1 patent drawing
  • US8953040B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A doorbell system can be used to 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 doorbell system can also be used to 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.