Wireless Doorbell Alert System Using Segmented Handheld Receivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless doorbell systems face issues such as limited sound coverage, high costs, energy consumption, vulnerability to vandalism, and privacy concerns due to WiFi video systems, as well as inefficiencies in delivering packages when recipients are not available.
Innovation Solution
A wireless alert system that includes a doorbell and chime connected to sensors capable of sending signals to handheld devices or computer-based communication systems, allowing for flexible alerting and delivery management, using Bluetooth or other low-energy technologies to improve range and security, and enabling two-way communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple receivers are installed to expand sound coverage, then alert coverage is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the alert delivery function by separating the doorbell signal generation from the alert notification delivery. The doorbell system sends signals to multiple handheld devices (smartphones, tablets, wearables) that can be distributed throughout the house, eliminating the need for installing multiple dedicated receivers while achieving wide coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing handheld communication devices universal alert receivers. These devices serve multiple functions: they act as alert notification devices, communication interfaces, and can trigger local notifications throughout the house. This eliminates the need for dedicated receivers and reduces system complexity.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If WiFi video doorbell systems are used to provide visual identification, then recognition capability is improved, but energy consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the video transmission function from the doorbell system itself and places it on the visitor's handheld device. The doorbell only captures local audio and visual data briefly when the button is pressed, then transmits this minimal data to the visitor's smartphone where the full video stream is played. This dramatically reduces energy consumption compared to continuous WiFi video monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous video monitoring, the system uses periodic action by capturing video only when the doorbell is activated and for limited durations. The doorbell system periodically checks for visitors and transmits data only when needed, rather than continuously streaming video, thereby reducing energy consumption.
3Reliability
If WiFi 2.4 Ghz spectrum is used for communication, then connectivity is achieved, but signal interference and connection performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the visitor's existing smartphone as a communication bridge. The doorbell system communicates with the smartphone through Bluetooth or other low-energy protocols, which then uses the smartphone's powerful Wi-Fi and cellular networks for long-range communication. This intermediary approach isolates the doorbell from direct WiFi interference while maintaining connectivity.
4Ease of operation
If traditional doorbell systems are used, then basic alerting is provided, but flexibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by allowing the alert delivery method to change based on real-time conditions. The system can adapt to different scenarios: sending alerts to multiple devices simultaneously, prioritizing different devices, adjusting notification methods based on time of day or weather conditions, and dynamically updating delivery addresses for packages. This provides high flexibility while maintaining basic alerting functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An alert device includes electronic circuitry and at least a first antenna. The circuitry is designed for sending out a first signal, for wireless communication with at least a first hand held communication device, and at least a second signal for wireless communication with at least a second hand held communication device. The second signal differs from the first signal, preferably in at least one of transmitting energy, transmitting frequency, coding and pulse length. The device includes a switch for switching between: a first mode in which only the first signal is transmitted and a second mode wherein the first and second signal are transmitted; or a first mode wherein only the first signal is transmitted and a second mode wherein only the second signal is transmitted.