U.S. patent application number 15/341125 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-23 for doorbell communication systems and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to SkyBell Technologies, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is SkyBell Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Seton Paul Kasmir, Jeremy Norberg, Joseph Frank Scalisi.
Application Number | 20170085843 15/341125 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58283596 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170085843 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Scalisi; Joseph Frank ; et
al. |
March 23, 2017 |
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
The disclosure includes a doorbell system having a doorbell, a
doorbell housing, a visitor detection system, and a chime. The
visitor detection system can be coupled to the doorbell housing and
can include at least one of a camera and a motion detector. The
doorbell can also comprise a first low-energy transceiver and a
first high-energy transceiver that can be coupled to the doorbell
housing. The first and second low-energy transceivers and the first
and second high-energy transceivers can be configured to transmit
data.
Inventors: |
Scalisi; Joseph Frank;
(Yorba Linda, CA) ; Kasmir; Seton Paul; (San
Diego, CA) ; Norberg; Jeremy; (Irvine, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SkyBell Technologies, Inc. |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SkyBell Technologies, Inc.
Irvine
CA
|
Family ID: |
58283596 |
Appl. No.: |
15/341125 |
Filed: |
November 2, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15167831 |
May 27, 2016 |
9508239 |
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15341125 |
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14861613 |
Sep 22, 2015 |
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15167831 |
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62400611 |
Sep 27, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 7/186 20130101;
G06Q 10/0833 20130101; G06Q 50/265 20130101; G06Q 90/20 20130101;
H04W 88/02 20130101; G08B 15/00 20130101; H04W 4/80 20180201; H04W
84/042 20130101; G08B 19/005 20130101; G08B 13/1472 20130101; H04L
67/12 20130101; G08B 13/19619 20130101; H04N 7/188 20130101; G08B
13/1966 20130101; H04N 7/147 20130101; G08B 13/248 20130101; G08B
3/10 20130101; G08B 13/19695 20130101; G06Q 50/163 20130101; H04W
84/12 20130101; G06K 9/00771 20130101; G08B 13/2462 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18; G08B 13/196 20060101 G08B013/196; H04L 29/08 20060101
H04L029/08 |
Claims
1. A doorbell system comprising a doorbell, wherein the doorbell
comprises: a doorbell housing; a visitor detection system coupled
to the doorbell housing, the visitor detection system including at
least one of a camera and a motion detector; a first low-energy
transceiver coupled to the doorbell housing; and a first
high-energy transceiver coupled to the doorbell housing, wherein
the first low-energy transceiver and the first high-energy
transceiver are configurable to transmit data.
2. The doorbell system of claim 1, further comprising a chime
communicatively coupled to the doorbell, the chime comprising: a
chime housing; a second low-energy transceiver coupled to the chime
housing; and a second high-energy transceiver coupled to the chime
housing, wherein the second low-energy transceiver and the second
high-energy transceiver are configurable to transmit data to the
first low-energy transceiver and the first high-energy
transceiver.
3. The doorbell system of claim 2, further comprising a Wi-Fi
communication hub communicatively coupled to at least one of the
doorbell and the chime.
4. The doorbell system of claim 3, wherein the Wi-Fi communication
hub comprises a Wi-Fi router.
5. The doorbell system of claim 3, wherein the first low-energy
transceiver comprises a first Bluetooth low-energy transceiver and
the second low-energy transceiver comprises a second Bluetooth
low-energy transceiver, and the first high-energy transceiver
comprises a first Wi-Fi transceiver and the second high-energy
transceiver comprises a second Wi-Fi transceiver.
6. The doorbell system of claim 5, wherein the doorbell is powered
by a battery located within the doorbell housing.
7. The doorbell system of claim 3, further comprising a remote
computing device communicatively coupled to at least one of the
doorbell, the chime, and the Wi-Fi communication hub.
8. The doorbell system of claim 7, wherein at least one of the
first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver
are configured to activate in response to a first request from the
remote computing device, and the first high-energy transceiver and
the second high-energy transceiver are configured to activate in
response to a second request from the remote computing device.
9. The doorbell system of claim 3, wherein the first high-energy
transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver are configured
to activate in response to a second event detected by the visitor
detection system.
10. The doorbell system of claim 3, wherein the doorbell comprises
a light source that illuminates light, and wherein at least one of
the first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy
transceiver are configured to activate in response to a request
from the remote computing device to change a color of the
light.
11. The doorbell system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the
first high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy
transceiver are configured to activate in response to the doorbell
detecting a presence of a visitor.
12. A method of using a doorbell system comprising a doorbell
having a visitor detection system, a first low-energy transceiver,
and a first high-energy transceiver, the doorbell system comprising
a chime communicatively coupled to the doorbell, the chime having a
second low-energy transceiver and a second high-energy transceiver,
the method comprising: activating at least one of the first
low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver in
response to a first event; and activating at least one of the first
high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver in
response to a second event.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the doorbell system further
comprises a remote computing device communicatively coupled to at
least one of the doorbell and the chime, and wherein the first
event comprises a first request from the remote computing device
and the second event comprises a second request from the remote
computing device.
14. The method of claim 12, further comprising: activating both the
first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver
in response to the first event; and deactivating the first
high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver in
response to activating both the first low-energy transceiver and
the second low-energy transceiver.
15. The method of claim 12, further comprising: activating both the
first high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy
transceiver in response to the second event; and deactivating the
first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver
in response to activating both the first high-energy transceiver
and the second high-energy transceiver.
16. A method of using a doorbell system comprising a doorbell
having a visitor detection system, a first low-energy transceiver,
and a first high-energy transceiver, the doorbell system comprising
a chime communicatively coupled to the doorbell, the chime having a
second low-energy transceiver and a second high-energy transceiver,
the method comprising: activating the first low-energy transceiver;
activating the second low-energy transceiver; and transmitting data
between the first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy
transceiver to thereby enable communication between the doorbell
and the chime.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: deactivating the
first high-energy transceiver in response to activating the first
low-energy transceiver; and deactivating the second high-energy
transceiver in response to activating the second low-energy
transceiver.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: activating the
first low-energy transceiver in response to the doorbell performing
at least one of sending a first transmission that is less than a
predetermined transmission threshold and receiving a second
transmission that is less than the predetermined transmission
threshold; and activating the second low-energy transceiver in
response to the chime performing at least one of sending the first
transmission that is less than the predetermined transmission
threshold and receiving the second transmission that is less than
the predetermined transmission threshold.
19. A method of using a doorbell system comprising a doorbell
having a camera, a motion detector, a first low-energy transceiver,
and a first high-energy transceiver, the doorbell system comprising
a chime communicatively coupled to the doorbell, the chime having a
second low-energy transceiver and a second high-energy transceiver,
the method comprising: activating the first high-energy
transceiver; activating the second high-energy transceiver; and
transmitting data between the first high-energy transceiver and the
second high-energy transceiver to thereby enable communication
between the doorbell and the chime.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: deactivating the
first low-energy transceiver in response to activating the first
high-energy transceiver; and deactivating the second low-energy
transceiver in response to activating the second high-energy
transceiver.
21. The method of claim 20, further comprising: activating the
first high-energy transceiver in response to the doorbell
performing at least one of sending a first transmission that is
greater than a predetermined transmission threshold and receiving a
second transmission that is greater than the predetermined
transmission threshold; and activating the second high-energy
transceiver in response to the chime performing at least one of
sending the first transmission that is greater than the
predetermined transmission threshold and receiving the second
transmission that is greater than the predetermined transmission
threshold.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/400,611; filed Sep. 27, 2016; and
entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This application claims the benefit of and is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser.
No. 15/167,831; filed May 27, 2016; and entitled DOORBELL PACKAGE
DETECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
[0003] This application claims the benefit of and is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser.
No. 14/861,613; filed Sep. 22, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL
COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS; the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Field
[0005] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to doorbells.
Certain embodiments relate to communication between a person near a
doorbell and a person in another location.
[0006] Description of Related Art
[0007] Homes, offices, and other buildings sometimes include
communication and surveillance systems to enable friendly visitors
to summon occupants of the buildings and to deter unwanted
visitors. Communication and surveillance systems can include video
cameras and doorbells.
[0008] Doorbells can enable a person located outside of an entry
point, such as a door, to alert a person inside of an entry point
that someone outside would like to talk to someone inside.
Doorbells sometimes include a button located near a door, such as a
front door, side door, or back door of a home, office, dwelling,
warehouse, building, or structure. Doorbells are sometimes used
near a gate or some other entrance to a partially enclosed area.
Pushing the doorbell sometimes causes a chime or other alerting
sound to be emitted. In some cases, this alerting sound can
typically be heard within a short distance from the entry point or
sound source. For example, a homeowner located remotely from her
home likely would not be able to hear the alerting sound, and thus,
would not be aware that someone is ringing her doorbell. Thus,
there is a need for devices and methods to alert remotely located
individuals that someone seeks the attention of the homeowner,
tenant, building guardian, or steward.
SUMMARY
[0009] In some embodiments, a doorbell system can comprise a
doorbell. The doorbell can comprise a doorbell housing and a
visitor detection system that can be coupled to the doorbell
housing. The visitor detection system can include at least one of a
camera and a motion detector. The doorbell can also comprise a
first low-energy transceiver that can be coupled to the doorbell
housing. Additionally, the doorbell can comprise a first
high-energy transceiver that can be coupled to the doorbell
housing. The first low-energy transceiver and the first high-energy
transceiver can be configurable to transmit data.
[0010] In several embodiments, the doorbell system can further
comprise a chime that can be communicatively coupled to the
doorbell. The chime can comprise a chime housing, a second
low-energy transceiver coupled to the chime housing, and a second
high-energy transceiver coupled to the chime housing. The second
low-energy transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver can
be configurable to transmit data to the first low-energy
transceiver and the first high-energy transceiver.
[0011] In some embodiments, the doorbell system can further
comprise a Wi-Fi communication hub that can be communicatively
coupled to at least one of the doorbell and the chime. The Wi-Fi
communication hub can comprise a Wi-Fi router.
[0012] In several embodiments, the first low-energy transceiver can
comprise a first Bluetooth low-energy transceiver. The second
low-energy transceiver can comprise a second Bluetooth low-energy
transceiver. The first high-energy transceiver can comprise a first
Wi-Fi transceiver. The second high-energy transceiver can comprise
a second Wi-Fi transceiver. In some embodiments, the doorbell can
be powered by a battery located within the doorbell housing. In
several embodiments, the doorbell system can further comprise a
remote computing device that can be communicatively coupled to at
least one of the doorbell, the chime, and the Wi-Fi communication
hub.
[0013] In some embodiments of the doorbell system, at least one of
the first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy
transceiver can be configured to activate in response to a first
request from the remote computing device. The first high-energy
transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver can be
configured to activate in response to a second request from the
remote computing device.
[0014] In several embodiments of the doorbell system, the first
high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver can
be configured to activate in response to a second event detected by
the visitor detection system. In some embodiments, the doorbell can
comprise a light source that can illuminates light. At least one of
the first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy
transceiver can be configured to activate in response to a request
from the remote computing device to change a color of the light. In
several embodiments, at least one of the first high-energy
transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver can be
configured to activate in response to the doorbell detecting a
presence of a visitor.
[0015] In some embodiments, a doorbell system can comprise a
doorbell having a visitor detection system, a first low-energy
transceiver, and a first high-energy transceiver. The doorbell
system can comprise a chime that can be communicatively coupled to
the doorbell. The chime can have a second low-energy transceiver
and a second high-energy transceiver. The method for using the
doorbell system can comprise activating at least one of the first
low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver. This
activation can be in response to a first event. At least one of the
first high-energy transceiver and the second high-energy
transceiver can be activated in response to a second event.
[0016] In several embodiments, the doorbell system can further
comprise a remote computing device that can be communicatively
coupled to at least one of the doorbell and the chime. The first
event can comprise a first request from the remote computing
device. The second event can comprise a second request from the
remote computing device.
[0017] In some embodiments, the method of using the doorbell system
can further comprise activating both the first low-energy
transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver in response to
the first event. The first high-energy transceiver and the second
high-energy transceiver can be deactivated in response to
activating both the first low-energy transceiver and the second
low-energy transceiver.
[0018] In several embodiments, the method of using the doorbell
system can further comprise activating both the first high-energy
transceiver and the second high-energy transceiver, in response to
the second event. The method can then comprise deactivating the
first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy transceiver
in response to activating both the first high-energy transceiver
and the second high-energy transceiver.
[0019] In some embodiments, a doorbell system can comprise a
doorbell having a visitor detection system, a first low-energy
transceiver, and a first high-energy transceiver. The doorbell
system can comprise a chime communicatively coupled to the
doorbell. The chime can have a second low-energy transceiver and a
second high-energy transceiver. The method for using the doorbell
system can comprise activating the first low-energy transceiver,
activating the second low-energy transceiver, and transmitting data
between the first low-energy transceiver and the second low-energy
transceiver. This method can thereby enable communication between
the doorbell and the chime.
[0020] In several embodiments, the method of using the doorbell
system can further comprise deactivating the first high-energy
transceiver in response to activating the first low-energy
transceiver. The second high-energy transceiver can be deactivated
in response to activating the second low-energy transceiver.
[0021] In some embodiments, the method of using the doorbell system
can further comprise activating the first low-energy transceiver.
The first low-energy transceiver can be activated in response to
the doorbell performing at least one of sending a first
transmission that is less than a predetermined transmission
threshold, and receiving a second transmission that is less than
the predetermined transmission threshold, and activating the second
low-energy transceiver. The activation of the second low-energy
transceiver can be in response to the chime performing at least one
of sending the first transmission that is less than the
predetermined transmission threshold and receiving the second
transmission that is less than the predetermined transmission
threshold.
[0022] In several embodiments, a doorbell system can comprise a
doorbell having a camera, a motion detector, a first low-energy
transceiver, and a first high-energy transceiver. The doorbell
system can comprise a chime that can be communicatively coupled to
the doorbell. The chime can have a second low-energy transceiver
and a second high-energy transceiver. The method for using the
doorbell system can comprise activating the first high-energy
transceiver, activating the second high-energy transceiver, and
transmitting data between the first high-energy transceiver and the
second high-energy transceiver. This method can thereby enable
communication between the doorbell and the chime.
[0023] In some embodiments, the method of using the doorbell can
further comprise deactivating the first low-energy transceiver in
response to activating the first high-energy transceiver, and
deactivating the second low-energy transceiver in response to
activating the second high-energy transceiver.
[0024] In several embodiments, the method of using the doorbell can
further comprise activating the first high-energy transceiver in
response to the doorbell performing at least one of sending a first
transmission that is greater than a predetermined transmission
threshold and receiving a second transmission that is greater than
the predetermined transmission threshold. The method can also
comprise activating the second high-energy transceiver in response
to the chime performing at least one of sending the first
transmission that can be greater than the predetermined
transmission threshold and receiving the second transmission that
can be greater than the predetermined transmission threshold.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] These and other features, aspects, and advantages are
described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended
to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. In the drawings,
like reference characters denote corresponding features
consistently throughout similar embodiments.
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system,
according to some embodiments.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device running software,
according to some embodiments.
[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system
is connected to a building, according to some embodiments.
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates a communication system that includes a
security system, a doorbell button, a wireless router, a server,
and users, according to some embodiments.
[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram showing a method of
operating a security system, according to some embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram showing another method of
operating a security system, according to some embodiments.
[0032] FIGS. 7, 8, 9 and 10 illustrate visitors being detected by
security systems, according to various embodiments.
[0033] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a security system
that is communicatively coupled to a communication system,
according to some embodiments.
[0034] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of various event
detection devices that are communicatively coupled to a
communication system, according to some embodiments.
[0035] FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method of monitoring
for an event through a communication system, according to some
embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of various alarm types that
may be used based on the certainty and severity of the event,
according to some embodiments.
[0037] FIGS. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and
28 illustrate flow diagrams showing methods of operating a security
system, according to various embodiments.
[0038] FIG. 29 illustrates a back view of the doorbell from FIG. 1
without a mounting bracket, according to some embodiments.
[0039] FIG. 30 illustrates a diagrammatic view of a doorbell and a
doorbell control software application running on a computing
device, according to some embodiments.
[0040] FIG. 31 illustrates a front view of a doorbell chime,
according to some embodiments.
[0041] FIG. 32 illustrates a side perspective view of a doorbell
chime, according to some embodiments.
[0042] FIG. 33 illustrates a front view of a doorbell chime coupled
to a power outlet, according to some embodiments.
[0043] FIGS. 34, 35, and 36 illustrate diagrammatic views of
doorbell systems, according to some embodiments.
[0044] FIG. 37 illustrates a back view of a chime without a back
cover to show various components of the chime's electrical system,
according to some embodiments.
[0045] FIGS. 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, and 43 illustrate method
flowcharts, according to some embodiments.
[0046] FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate diagrammatic views of doorbell
systems, according to some embodiments.
[0047] FIG. 46 illustrates a front view of a doorbell, according to
some embodiments.
[0048] FIG. 47 illustrates wireless communication between the
transceivers of the doorbell and the chime, according to some
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed
below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically
disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses,
and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of
the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular
embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process
disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process
may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily
limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations
may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a
manner that may be helpful in understanding certain embodiments;
however, the order of description should not be construed to imply
that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the
structures, systems, and/or devices described herein may be
embodied as integrated components or as separate components.
[0050] For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain
aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not
necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any
particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may
be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage
or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily
achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or
suggested herein.
Introduction
[0051] Communication systems can provide a secure and convenient
way for a remotely located individual to communicate with a person
who is approaching a sensor, such as a proximity sensor or motion
sensor, or with a person who rings a doorbell, which can be located
in a doorway, near an entrance, or within 15 feet of a door. Some
communication systems allow an individual to hear, see, and talk
with visitors who approach at least a portion of the communication
system and/or press a button, such as a doorbell's button. For
example, communication systems can use a computing device to enable
a remotely located person to see, hear, and/or talk with visitors.
Computing devices can include computers, laptops, tablets, mobile
devices, smartphones, cellular phones, and wireless devices (e.g.,
cars with wireless communication). Example computing devices
include the iPhone, iPad, iMac, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro made
by Apple Inc. Communication between a remotely located person and a
visitor can occur via the Internet, cellular networks,
telecommunication networks, and wireless networks.
[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system
embodiment. The communication system 200 can include a security
system 202 (e.g., a doorbell) and a computing device 204. Although
the illustrated security system 202 includes many components in one
housing, several security system embodiments include components in
separate housings. The security system 202 can include a camera
assembly 208 and a doorbell button 212. The camera assembly 208 can
be a video camera, which in some embodiments is a webcam.
[0053] The security system 202 can include a diagnostic light 216
and a power indicator light 220. In some embodiments, the
diagnostic light 216 is a first color (e.g., blue) if the security
system 202 and/or the communication system 200 is connected to a
wireless Internet network and is a second color (e.g., red) if the
security system 202 and/or the communication system 200 is not
connected to a wireless Internet network. In some embodiments, the
power indicator 220 is a first color if the security system 202 is
connected to a power source. The power source can be power supplied
by the building 300 to which the security system 202 is attached.
In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 is a second color or
does not emit light if the security system 202 is not connected to
the power source.
[0054] The security system 202 (e.g., a doorbell) can receive power
and/or information from an Ethernet cable 221 that can be
electrically coupled to the doorbell. The Ethernet cable 221 can
exit a hole in an exterior of a building near an entryway to enable
electrically coupling the doorbell to the Ethernet cable 221.
[0055] As well, the security system 202 can include at least one
speaker 488. The speaker 488 can be located along any portion of
the security system 202. For example, the speaker 488 can be
located within an inner portion of the security system 202 or along
an outer portion of the security system 202. The speaker 488 can be
any type of sound output device configured to emit sound, such as a
digital speaker, an analog speaker, and the like.
[0056] Furthermore, the security system 202 (e.g., a doorbell) can
include an outer housing 224, which can be water resistant and/or
waterproof. The outer housing can be made from metal or plastic,
such as molded plastic with a hardness of 60 Shore D. In some
embodiments, the outer housing 224 is made from brushed nickel or
aluminum.
[0057] Rubber seals can be used to make the outer housing 224 water
resistant or waterproof. The security system 202 can be
electrically coupled to a power source, such as wires electrically
connected to a building's electrical power system. In some
embodiments, the security system 202 includes a battery for backup
and/or primary power.
[0058] Wireless communication 230 can enable the security system
202 (e.g., a doorbell) to communicate with the computing device
204. Some embodiments enable communication via cellular and/or WiFi
networks. Some embodiments enable communication via the Internet.
Several embodiments enable wired communication between the security
system 202 and the computing device 204. The wireless communication
230 can include the following communication means: radio, WiFi
(e.g., wireless local area network), cellular, Internet, Bluetooth,
telecommunication, electromagnetic, infrared, light, sonic, and
microwave. Other communication means are used by some embodiments.
In some embodiments, such as embodiments that include
telecommunication or cellular communication means, the security
system 202 can initiate voice calls or send text messages to a
computing device 204 (e.g., a smartphone, a desktop computer, a
tablet computer, a laptop computer).
[0059] Several embodiments use near field communication (NFC) to
communicate between the computing device 204 and the doorbell 202.
The doorbell 202 and/or the computing device 204 can include a NFC
tag. Some NFC technologies include Bluetooth, radio-frequency
identification, and QR codes.
[0060] Some embodiments include computer software (e.g.,
application software), which can be a mobile application designed
to run on smartphones, tablet computers, and other mobile devices.
Software of this nature is sometimes referred to as "app" software.
Some embodiments include software designed to run on desktop
computers and laptop computers.
[0061] The computing device 204 can run software with a graphical
user interface. The user interface can include icons or buttons. In
some embodiments, the software is configured for use with a
touch-screen computing device such as a smartphone or tablet.
[0062] FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device 204 running software.
The software includes a user interface 240 displayed on a display
screen 242. The user interface 240 can include a security system
indicator 244, which can indicate the location of the security
system that the user interface is displaying. For example, a person
can use one computing device 204 to control and/or interact with
multiple security systems, such as one security system located at a
front door and another security system located at a back door.
Selecting the security system indicator 244 can allow the user to
choose another security system (e.g., the back door security system
rather than the front door security system).
[0063] The user interface 240 can include a connectivity indicator
248. In some embodiments, the connectivity indicator can indicate
whether the computing device is in communication with a security
system, the Internet, and/or a cellular network. The connectivity
indicator 248 can alert the user if the computing device 204 has
lost its connection with the security system 202; the security
system 202 has been damaged; the security system 202 has been
stolen; the security system 202 has been removed from its mounting
location; the security system 202 lost electrical power; and/or if
the computing device 204 cannot communicate with the security
system 202. In some embodiments, the connectivity indicator 248
alerts the user of the computing device 204 by flashing, emitting a
sound, displaying a message, and/or displaying a symbol.
[0064] In some embodiments, if the security system 202 loses power,
loses connectivity to the computing device 204, loses connectivity
to the Internet, and/or loses connectivity to a remote server, a
remote server 206 sends an alert (e.g., phone call, text message,
image on the user interface 240) regarding the power and/or
connectivity issue. In several embodiments, the remote server 206
can manage communication between the security system 202 and the
computing device. In some embodiments, information from the
security system 202 is stored by the remote server 206. In several
embodiments, information from the security system 202 is stored by
the remote server 206 until the information can be sent to the
computing device 204, uploaded to the computing device 204, and/or
displayed to the remotely located person via the computing device
204. The remote server 206 can be a computing device that stores
information from the security system 202 and/or from the computing
device 204. In some embodiments, the remote server 206 is located
in a data center.
[0065] In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the
remote server 206 attempts to communicate with the security system
202. If the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 is
unable to communicate with the security system 202, the computing
device 204 and/or the remote server 206 alerts the remotely located
person via the software, phone, text, a displayed message, and/or a
website. In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the
remote server 206 attempts to communicate with the security system
202 periodically; at least every five hours and/or less than every
10 minutes; at least every 24 hours and/or less than every 60
minutes; or at least every hour and/or less than every second.
[0066] In some embodiments, the server 206 can initiate
communication to the computer device 204 and/or to the security
system 202. In several embodiments, the server 206 can initiate,
control, and/or block communication between the computing device
204 and the security system 202.
[0067] In several embodiments, a user can log into an "app,"
website, and/or software on a computing device (e.g., mobile
computing device, smartphone, tablet, desktop computer) to adjust
the security system settings discussed herein.
[0068] In some embodiments, a computing device can enable a user to
watch live video and/or hear live audio from a security system due
to the user's request rather than due to actions of a visitor. Some
embodiments include a computing device initiating a live video feed
(or a video feed that is less than five minutes old).
[0069] In some embodiments, the user interface 240 displays an
image 252 such as a still image or a video of an area near and/or
in front of the security system 202. The image 252 can be taken by
the camera assembly 208 and stored by the security system 202,
server 206, and/or computing device 204. The user interface 240 can
include a recording button 256 to enable a user to record images,
videos, and/or sound from the camera assembly 208, microphone of
the security system 202, and/or microphone of the computing device
204.
[0070] In several embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a
picture button 260 to allow the user to take still pictures and/or
videos of the area near and/or in front of the security system 202.
The user interface 240 can also include a sound adjustment button
264 and a mute button 268. The user interface 240 can include
camera manipulation buttons such as zoom, pan, and light adjustment
buttons. In some embodiments, the camera assembly 208 automatically
adjusts between Day Mode and Night Mode. Some embodiments include
an infrared camera and/or infrared lights to illuminate an area
near the security system 202 to enable the camera assembly 208 to
provide sufficient visibility (even at night).
[0071] In some embodiments, buttons include diverse means of
selecting various options, features, and functions. Buttons can be
selected by mouse clicks, keyboard commands, and touching a touch
screen. Many embodiments include buttons that can be selected
without touch screens.
[0072] In some embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a
quality selection button, which can allow a user to select the
quality and/or amount of the data transmitted from the security
system 202 to the computing device 204 and/or from the computing
device 204 to the security system 202.
[0073] In some embodiments, video can be sent to and/or received
from the computing device 204 using video chat protocols such as
FaceTime (by Apple Inc.) or Skype (by Microsoft Corporation). In
some embodiments, these videos are played by videoconferencing apps
on the computing device 204 instead of being played by the user
interface 240.
[0074] The user interface 240 can include a termination button 276
to end communication between the security system 202 and the
computing device 204. In some embodiments, the termination button
276 ends the ability of the person located near the security system
202 (i.e., the visitor) to hear and/or see the user of the
computing device 204, but does not end the ability of the user of
the computing device 204 to hear and/or see the person located near
the security system 202.
[0075] In some embodiments, a button 276 is both an answer button
(to accept a communication request from a visitor) and is a
termination button (to end communication between the security
system 202 and the computing device 204). The button 276 can
include the word "Answer" when the system is attempting to
establish two-way communication between the visitor and the user.
Selecting the button 276 when the system is attempting to establish
two-way communication between the visitor and the user can start
two-way communication. The button 276 can include the words "End
Call" during two-way communication between the visitor and the
user. Selecting the button 276 during two-way communication between
the visitor and the user can terminate two-way communication. In
some embodiments, terminating two-way communication still enables
the user to see and hear the visitor. In some embodiments,
terminating two-way communication causes the computing device 204
to stop showing video from the security system and to stop emitting
sounds recorded by the security system.
[0076] In some embodiments, the user interface 240 opens as soon as
the security system detects a visitor (e.g., senses indications of
a visitor). Once the user interface 240 opens, the user can see
and/or hear the visitor even before "answering" or otherwise
accepting two-way communication, in several embodiments.
[0077] Some method embodiments include detecting a visitor with a
security system. The methods can include causing the user interface
to display on a remote computing device 204 due to the detection of
the visitor (e.g., with or without user interaction). The methods
can include displaying video from the security system and/or audio
from the security system before the user accepts two-way
communication with the visitor. The methods can include displaying
video from the security system and/or audio from the security
system before the user accepts the visitor's communication request.
The methods can include the computing device simultaneously asking
the user if the user wants to accept (e.g., answer) the
communication request and displaying audio and/or video of the
visitor. For example, in some embodiments, the user can see and
hear the visitor via the security system before opening a means of
two-way communication with the visitor.
[0078] In some embodiments, the software includes means to start
the video feed on demand. For example, a user of the computing
device might wonder what is happening near the security system 202.
The user can open the software application on the computing device
204 and instruct the application to show live video and/or audio
from the security device 202 even if no event near the security
system 202 has triggered the communication.
[0079] In several embodiments, the security device 202 can be
configured to record when the security device 202 detects movement
and/or the presence of a person. The user of the computing device
204 can later review all video and/or audio records when the
security device 202 detected movement and/or the presence of a
person.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the server 206
controls communication between the computing device 204 and the
security system 202, which can be a doorbell with a camera, a
microphone, and a speaker. In several embodiments, the server 206
does not control communication between the computing device 204 and
the security system 202.
[0081] In some embodiments, data captured by the security system
and/or the computing device 204 (such as videos, pictures, and
audio) is stored by another remote device such as the server 206.
Cloud storage, enterprise storage, and/or networked enterprise
storage can be used to store video, pictures, and/or audio from the
communication system 200 or from any part of the communication
system 200. The user can download and/or stream stored data and/or
storage video, pictures, and/or audio. For example, a user can
record visitors for a year and then later can review conversations
with visitors from the last year. In some embodiments, remote
storage, the server 206, the computing device 204, and/or the
security system 202 can store information and statistics regarding
visitors and usage.
[0082] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a doorbell 202 is
connected to a building 300, which can include an entryway 310 that
has a door 254. A visitor 388 can approach the doorbell 202 and
then can be detected by the doorbell 202. The visitor 388 can press
the doorbell button 212. The user of the doorbell 202 can configure
the doorbell 202 such that when the visitor 388 presses the
doorbell button 212, the user receives a notification regarding the
visitor 388.
[0083] Electrical wires 304 can electrically couple the doorbell
202 to the electrical system of the building 300 such that the
doorbell 202 can receive electrical power from the building 300.
The building can include a door lock 250 to lock the door 254.
[0084] A wireless network 308 can allow devices to wirelessly
access the Internet. The security system 202 can access the
Internet via the wireless network 308. The wireless network 308 can
transmit data from the security system 202 to the Internet, which
can transmit the data to remotely located computing devices 204.
The Internet and wireless networks can transmit data from remotely
located computing devices 204 to the security system 202. In some
embodiments, a security system 202 connects to a home's WiFi.
[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 3, one computing device 204 (e.g., a
laptop, a smartphone, a mobile computing device, a television) can
communicate with multiple security systems 202. In some
embodiments, multiple computing devices 204 can communicate with
one security system 202.
[0086] In some embodiments, the security system 202 can communicate
(e.g., wirelessly 230) with a television 306, which can be a smart
television. Users can view the television 306 to see a visitor
and/or talk with the visitor.
[0087] FIG. 4 illustrates a communication system 310 that includes
a security system 320, a doorbell button 212, a WiFi router 328, a
server 332, and users 336. In step 340, a visitor initiates a
communication request by pressing the doorbell button 212 or
triggering a motion or proximity sensor. The visitor can trigger
the motion or proximity sensor by approaching the security system
320. In step 350, the security system 320 connects or otherwise
communicates with a home WiFi router 328. In step 360, the server
332 receives a signal from the WiFi router 328 and sends video
and/or audio to the users 336 via a wireless network 364. In step
370, the users see the visitor, hear the visitor, and talk with the
visitor. Step 370 can include using a software application to see,
hear, and/or talk with the visitor. The visitor and users 336 can
engage in two-way communication 374 via the internet or other
wireless communication system even when the visitor and the users
336 are located far away from each other. Some embodiments enable
users to receive communication requests and communicate with
visitors via diverse mobile communication standards including third
generation ("3G"), fourth generation ("4G"), long term evolution
("LTE"), worldwide interoperability for microwave access ("WiMAX"),
and WiFi.
[0088] In some cases, the users 336 utilize the communication
system 310 to communicate with visitors who are in close proximity
to the users 336. For example, a user 336 located inside her home
can communicate with a visitor located just outside the home via
the communication system 310.
[0089] FIG. 29 illustrates an internal view of the doorbell 202.
Doorbells 202 can include a chip 480 (e.g., integrated circuits,
microprocessor, computer) and a memory 492. Doorbells 202 can also
include a microphone 484 and a speaker 488. The speaker 488 can
comprise a flat speaker and a sound chamber 460 configured to
amplify an emitted sound. The flat speaker can be located in the
sound chamber. Some doorbell embodiments include a proximity sensor
500. In several embodiments, doorbells 202 include a wireless
communication module 504, such as a WiFi module. The communication
module 504 can have an integrated antenna. In some embodiments, an
antenna is contained within the outer housing 224.
[0090] The doorbell 202 can include one or more heating elements
508 configured to regulate the temperature of the doorbell 202. For
example, doorbells 202 can be used in very cold environments, such
as in Alaska. The heating element 508 can be used in various
methods to protect temperature sensitive portions of the doorbell
202 from cold weather.
[0091] While protecting the doorbell 202 from cold weather can be
important in some embodiments, protecting visitors from excessive
heat can also be important in some embodiments. Excessive heat
could burn visitors as they "ring" the doorbell (e.g., press the
doorbell button 212 shown in FIG. 35). The doorbell 202 can include
a thermometer 512 to enable the system to determine the temperature
inside a portion of the doorbell 202 and/or outside the doorbell
202.
[0092] Several embodiments can be configured for 9 to 40 volts
alternating current ("VAC") and/or 9 to 40 volts direct current
("VDC"). Some embodiments convert input electricity into direct
current (DC), such as 12 VDC. Several embodiments include a
converter 494 for power conversion (e.g., converting electrical
energy from one form to another). The converter 494 can convert
input power (e.g., from wiring in a building) to a suitable power
form for the doorbell 202. The power conversion can convert between
AC and DC, change the voltage, and/or change the frequency. The
converter 494 can include a transformer and/or a voltage regulator.
In several embodiments, the converter 494 can include a DC to DC
converter, a voltage stabilizer, a linear regulator, a surge
protector, a rectifier, a power supply unit, a switch, an inverter,
and/or a voltage converter. In some embodiments, the converter 494
converts 50 Hertz ("Hz") power into 60 Hz power.
[0093] The electrical components of the doorbell 202 (e.g., the
camera assembly 208, the memory 492, the chip 480, the speaker 488,
the converter 494, the microphone 484, the lights 458, the
rectifier 524, the proximity sensor 500, the communication module
504, the heating element 508, the electrical connectors 510, the
thermometer 512, the image analysis system 520, and the battery
642) can be electrically coupled to a printed circuit board ("PCB")
516 and can receive electrical power from the PCB 516.
[0094] The PCB 516 and the electrical components of the doorbell
202 can be the electrical system 456 of the doorbell 202.
Additional details regarding the PCB 516 and the electrical
components of the doorbell 202 are described in U.S. Nonprovisional
patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376; filed Feb. 3, 2015; and
entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire
contents of patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376 are incorporated
by reference herein.
[0095] Although some embodiments are described in the context of
methods, the method embodiments can also be formulated as devices
and systems. Methods described herein can be applied to the devices
and systems incorporated by references herein.
Video Embodiments
[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, software can start the video
feed on demand. For example, a user of the computing device might
wonder what is happening near the security system 202. The user can
open the software application (e.g., an "app") on the computing
device 204 and instruct the application to show live video and/or
audio from the security device 202 even if no event near the
security system 202 has triggered the communication.
[0097] Several embodiments include "on-demand" service. For
example, a user can initiate communicate via a doorbell and/or can
initiate live video from the doorbell by pressing a button 260 on a
user interface (shown in FIG. 2). Pressing the on-demand button 260
again can terminate the communication and/or the live video.
Situational Sound Embodiments
[0098] The security system 202 may be configured to play unique
sounds in response to detecting specific situations and/or during
certain times of day. The sounds may be preprogrammed sounds or
completely customizable by a user of the security system 202. As
well, the security system 202 may be configured to play any of the
sounds according to specific situations. For example, the security
system 202 may be configured to play a specific message for a
specific visiting individual, and/or may be configured to play a
specific message when a potential visitor is identified as a
specific person or is included in a list of specific people.
[0099] The security system 202 may include a speaker 488 configured
to emit any type of sound. The security system 202 may also include
a visitor detection system that may include at least one of a
button 212, a camera 208, and a motion detector 218. Accordingly,
the visitor detection system may be configurable to receive various
indications of a visitor's presence. As well, the speaker 488 and
the visitor detection system may be directly or indirectly coupled
to the security system 202. Even still, the speaker 488 and the
visitor detection system may be mechanically, electrically, and/or
communicatively coupled to the security system 202.
[0100] The security system 202 may detect different indications of
a visitor's presence. As shown in FIG. 5, the security system 202
can be configured to receive a first indication of a visitor's
presence (at step 560). In response to receiving the first
indication of the visitor's presence, the security system 202 can
emit a first sound with the speaker 488 (at step 562). The security
system 202 can be configured to receive a second indication of a
visitor's presence (at step 564). In response to receiving the
second indication of the visitor's presence, the security system
202 can emit a second sound with the speaker 488 (at step 566). The
first sound can be audibly different than the second sound.
[0101] Some of the indications can be interpreted as being
associated with a friendly or welcome visitor, while other
indications can be interpreted as being associated with an
unfriendly or unwelcome visitor. According to these different
indications, the security system 202, by the speaker 488, can emit
different sounds.
[0102] With reference to FIG. 7, when the security system 202
receives an indication that a visitor 580 has pressed the button
212 (at step 582), this can be interpreted as an indication of a
friendly, or welcome visitor. In response to receiving the
indication that the button 212 has been pressed, the speaker 488
can emit a first sound (at step 584), such as a friendly sound
(e.g. "Welcome to our humble abode.").
[0103] As illustrated in FIG. 8, when the security system 202
receives an indication that a visitor 586 has been moving in front
of the security system 202 for a prolonged or predetermined time
(e.g. 15 seconds or any time that indicates that the visitor is
loitering) without pressing the button 212 (at step 588), this can
be interpreted as an unfriendly or unwelcome visitor. In response
to receiving the indication that the visitor has been moving in
front of the security system 202 without pressing the button 212,
the speaker 488 can emit a second sound (at step 590). The second
sound can be an alert sound (e.g. a warning to move away from the
building 300--"Step away from the house!"). It should be
appreciated that the security system 202 can be configured to emit
any number of sounds, such as a third sound, a fourth sound, a
fifth sound, and any number of additional sounds.
[0104] The security system 202 can be configured to receive any
number of indications. For example, in addition to a button press
and a motion of a visitor, the indications can include indications
of a remote computing device 204, a noise, a thermal signature
(such as a thermal gradient indicating the presence of a person or
animal), a retina scan, a fingerprint scan, a ground vibration, and
the like. It should be appreciated that the indication can include
any indication of a presence of any visitor, such as a person or
animal.
[0105] In some embodiments, the security system 202 can emit
different sounds for a first visitor. For example, as the first
visitor approaches the building 300, the security system 202 can
emit a first sound based upon the motion of the first visitor. As
well, the security system 202 can emit a second sound once the
first visitor pushes the button 212 of the security system 202.
[0106] Furthermore, any of the indications described in this
disclosure can be associated with a visitor that is either welcome
or unwelcome at the building. Accordingly, the security system 202
can be configured to any environment in which the building 300 is
situated. For example, some buildings 300 can be located in high
traffic areas where it is common for people to walk by the front of
the security system 202 without pressing the button 212. In this
regard, the security system 202 can be configured to ignore
indications of motion and only emit sounds in response to
affirmative indications that the visitor is visiting the building
300, such as an indication that the button 212 has been pressed. In
some embodiments, the security system 202 can be configured to only
respond to motion in certain zones. For example, if the security
system 202 is located 20 feet from a busy sidewalk, then the
security system 202 can be configured to ignore all motion that
occurs more than 15 feet from the security system 202. In this
manner, the security system 202 can only respond to movements
occurring on the building property.
[0107] As well, combinations of indications can be interpreted in
various manners. For example, a combination of an indication of
motion (i.e. movement) of a visitor in front of the security system
202 and an indication that the visitor has pressed the button 212
can indicate that the visitor is welcome at the building 300. As
previously described, the speaker 488 of the security system 202
can emit a friendly message in response to the combination of
indications.
[0108] Even still, the security system 202 can be configured to
emit different sounds in response to a positive detection of one
indication and a negative detection of another indication. For
example, if the security system 202 detects motion of a visitor but
does not detect sound, this can be interpreted as an unwelcome
visitor, such as a prowler sneaking around the outside of the
building 300. In response, the speaker 488 of the security system
202 can emit an alert sound (e.g. a warning to exit the premise
before the authorities are notified).
[0109] Furthermore, the time of day and/or day when a visitor
approaches the building 300 can also indicate whether the visitor
is welcome or not. As shown in FIG. 6, the security system 202 can
be configured to receive an indication of a visitor's presence at a
first time of day (at step 570). The first time of day can occur
between sunrise and sunset, or any other time of day. In response
to receiving the indication of the visitor's presence at the first
time of day, the security system 202 can emit a first sound with
the speaker 488 (at step 572). In some embodiments, the first sound
comprises an audible message spoken by a female voice, while some
embodiments may comprise an audible message spoken by a male
voice.
[0110] Furthermore, the security system 202 can be configured to
receive an indication of the visitor's presence at a second time of
day (at step 574). It should be appreciated that the second time of
day can occur between sunset and sunrise, or any other time of day.
In response to receiving the indication of the visitor's presence
at the second time of day, the security system 202 can emit a
second sound with the speaker 488 (at step 576). In some
embodiments, the second sound comprises an audible message spoken
by a male voice, while some embodiments may comprise an audible
message spoken by a female voice.
[0111] To illustrate a more specific example, such as the one shown
in FIG. 9, if a visitor 592 presses the button 212 at noon on a
weekend day (at step 594), the speaker 488 can emit a welcome
message (e.g. "Welcome. We'll be right there.) (at step 596). In
another example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, if a visitor 597
presses the button 212 at midnight on a workday (at step 598), the
speaker 488 can emit a do not disturb message or a message
instructing the visitor to come back another time (e.g. "Please
come back tomorrow!").
[0112] Combinations of indications can be interpreted differently
depending on the time of day. For example, in response to an
indication of a motion and a noise during the day, the speaker 488
of the security system 202 can emit a friendly message. However, in
response to an indication of a motion and a noise during the night,
the speaker 488 can emit a warning message.
[0113] Even still, the security system 202 can be configured to
respond differently based on the unique circumstances of the
indication. For example, if the motion detector 218 of the security
system 202 detects a slow movement versus a faster movement, then
the speaker 488 can emit different sounds based upon these various
circumstances. A slow movement can be interpreted as a prowler
approaching the building, while a faster movement, such as a
movement of a person walking at 3.5 miles per hour, can be
interpreted as a friendly visitor approaching the building 300.
[0114] The time of day can be any selected time of day and any
number of time ranges can be used. For example, the security system
202 can emit a welcome message during sunrise to sunset and an
alert or warning message during sunset to sunrise. Accordingly,
because sunrise and sunset change on a daily basis, the security
system 202 can be communicatively coupled to an outside database(s)
to allow the security system 202 to thereby automatically respond
to these ever-changing conditions.
[0115] The security system 202 (e.g. doorbell) can elect to emit a
particular sound, such as a first sound or a second sound, based on
a time at which the security system 202 detects an indication of a
presence of a visitor. In some embodiments, the security system 202
is configured to detect an amount of light, which may indicate a
time of day. In response to detecting the amount of light, the
security system 202 can elect to emit the first sound or the second
sound based on the amount of light.
[0116] As well, the security system 202 can be configured to
provide unique responses during different time ranges on specific
days. For example, the user may have a bowling league every third
Monday of the month. Accordingly, during that time, (e.g. from 6
pm-8:30 pm) on the third Monday of the month, in response to
detecting an indication of a presence of a friendly visitor, the
speaker 488 of the security system 202 can emit a friendly message
telling the visitor that their presence is appreciated but the
visitor should come back another time. In another example, the user
may be on vacation from the 1.sup.st to the 10.sup.th and the user
may wish to emit more intimidating warnings to secure the building
300. Generally speaking, the security system 202 can be configured
to emit any type of sound in response to any time of day and/or
day.
[0117] The security system 202 can be configured to detect specific
visitors and emit certain sounds in response to detecting the
specific visitors. For example, if the security system 202 detects
a first visitor, such as a relative of the homeowner, the security
system 202 can always emit a friendly sound, no matter how the
first visitor approaches the home, or during what time of day. As
well, if the security system 202 detects a second visitor, such as
an unknown party (e.g. a solicitor), the security system 202 can
emit an unfriendly sound, no matter how the second visitor
approaches the home, or during what time of day.
[0118] To determine the identity of a visitor, the security system
202 can use any type of identity recognition technology, such as
facial recognition, to determine an indication of an identity of a
visitor. Some of these types of identity recognition technologies
are disclosed in U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
14/612,376; filed Feb. 3, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION
SYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire contents of patent application Ser.
No. 14/612,376 are incorporated by reference herein.
[0119] The different types of sounds emitted by the speaker 488 can
be configured to match the appropriate indication as detected by
the security system 202. For example, if the security system 202
detects an unfriendly visitor, the speaker 488 can emit a message
spoken by a male voice to thereby intimidate the unfriendly
visitor. Contra, if the security system 202 detects a friendly
visitor, the speaker 488 can emit a message spoken by a female
voice to thereby welcome the visitor. As well, the security system
202 can be configured to emit any other type of sound. For example,
a welcome visitor can be greeted by a pleasant melody or a
ding-dong, while an unwelcome visitor can be greeted by an alarm
sound or a warning message.
[0120] As well, messages can be spoken in any language, volume,
pitch, accent, and the like. Users may find that various
combinations of vocal characteristics to be useful in different
situations. For example, if a user is hosting a Mardi gras party,
the user can configure the security system 202 to emit a message
spoken by a person with a southern accent. Generally, it should be
appreciated that the speaker 488 of the security system 202 can be
configured to emit any type of sound for any type of specific
situation.
[0121] Likewise, the security system 202 can be configured to play
a specific message if the potential visitor is not included in a
list. For example, where a potential visitor is not included in a
list of the resident's contacts, the security system 202 can be
configured to indicate that the resident does not accept solicitors
and/or request the visitor to provide identifying information or
describe the purpose of the visit.
[0122] In some embodiments, the security system 202 can be
configured to play a specific message if the potential visitor has
a criminal background. For example, a user can configure the
security system 202 to play a specific message where a potential
visitor is a registered sex offender.
[0123] The sounds emitted by the security system 202 can be
recorded by the user him/herself. As well, the sounds can be
downloaded from another source, such as a remote computer (e.g. a
remote server), a remote computing device (e.g. a smart phone), a
website, a database (e.g. iTunes.RTM.), and the like. Also, methods
can include selecting the first sound and the second sound with a
remote computing device that is configured to receive alerts from
the doorbell. The selected sounds can be wirelessly transmitted to
the doorbell.
[0124] As well, the sounds can be recorded with a remote computing
device 204 and the sounds can be set up for temporary use whereby
the sounds can expire upon a predetermined time. For example, a
user can enter an expiration date of the recorded sound with the
remote computing device 204. Furthermore, the user can wirelessly
send the first sound and the expiration date from the remote
computing device to the doorbell. Once the expiration date passes,
the security system 202 can then cease to emit the recorded sound
from the security system 202.
[0125] As well, the security system 202 can be configured to
receive sound emitting parameters from a remote computing device
204. The security system 202 can emit a predetermined sound based
upon the sound emitting parameter. In some embodiments, the sound
emitting parameter includes at least one of an identity of the
first visitor, data associated with the first visitor, a time, a
location of a user of the remote computing device. In some
embodiments, the security system 202 can automatically download a
third sound based on the sound emitting parameters. The security
system 202 can emit the third sound from the speaker according to
rules associated with the third sound.
Alert Communication Embodiments
[0126] Embodiments of the security system 202 can be configured to
alert individuals located outside of a building (e.g. a home). For
example, the security system 202 can be configured to flash a
light, emit a sound (e.g. alternating high pitch and low pitch
sounds), initiate a communication session with a remote computing
device 204, and the like. These various alerts can be useful to
individuals, such as first responders, seeking to identify the
location of an event, such as an emergency event(s) occurring
within or outside the home. Home, as used herein, may refer to a
building whereby one or more occupants sleep in the building on a
permanent basis. Home may distinguishable from an office building
by the lack of permanent occupants that sleep in the office
building. Home may refer to an apartment building due to the
permanent nature of an occupant for the duration of a lease. Home
may be distinguishable from a hotel due to the lack of permanent
occupants.
[0127] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system
202 is communicatively coupled to a communication device 416. The
security system 202 may be part of a communication system 400. The
communication system 400 can be similar to that of the
communication system 200 except, the communication system 400 may
also be configured to allow communication between the security
system 202 and the communication device 416.
[0128] In various embodiments, the security system 202 can be
communicatively coupled, directly and/or via the cloud, to a
communication device 416, such as a hub device, a communication
system, and/or an event detection device 418, such as a sensor,
(e.g., a peripheral device, such as a Nest Protect.RTM. (registered
by Google Inc.), Nest Learning Thermostat.RTM. (registered by
Google Inc.), DropCam.RTM. (registered by Google Inc.), and the
like. The communication device 416, event detection device 418
and/or the security system 202 can be used to monitor various
events within the building 300 (e.g., home). Specifically, the
communication device 416 and/or event detection device 418 can
detect emergency events and then notify the security system 202. In
some embodiments, the communication device 416 is communicatively
coupled to the event detection device 418 that detects the
emergency event or adverse event (which is discussed further
herein). In this manner, the security system 202 may directly or
indirectly receive a notification of the emergency event from the
event detection device 418 and/or the communication device 416.
[0129] The security system 202 can communicate with the
communication device 416 via a communication network 414. The
communication network 414 can be similar to the wireless
communication 230, however, the communication network 414 can be
wired or wireless. In embodiments, the communication network 414
can utilize the existing electrical wires in the doorbell wires to
communicate with the security system 202 (e.g., powerline
networking). The communication network 414 can also utilize a wired
Local Area Network. In embodiments, the communication network 414
can include a Wide Area Network (WAN) that connects the
communication device 416 to the security system 202 over the
Internet.
[0130] In embodiments, the communication device 416 is a type of
device that is configured to connect multiple devices and
facilitate communication between the multiple devices. The security
system 202 may be a device that also is communicatively coupled to
the communication device 416. The communication device 416 may
receive a transmission from one device (i.e., an event detection
device 418), make a determination on what type of communication to
perform (e.g., an alert), and transmit the communication to a
second device (e.g., the security system 202) to take further
action.
[0131] The security system 202 can be configured to communicate
with remote computing devices (i.e., the computing device 204). The
computing device 204 may refer to a remote computing device in
embodiments. The security system 202 can initiate a communication
session through the communication network 414 by sending a request
to the computing device 204 to establish a secure connection (e.g.,
a virtual private network) to enhance security. In embodiments, the
communication session may also include an indication that an event
(as discussed further herein) has been initiated.
[0132] The security system 202 can have an outer housing 224. The
outer housing 224 may be configurable to attach to a building 300.
The outer housing 224 of the security system 202 can attach to the
building 300 using a variety of permanent or temporary mounting
mechanisms. In embodiments, the permanent mounting mechanism may
prevent the removal of the security system 202. The building 300
may include a variety of structures. For example, the building 300
includes a home, which is a type of building 300. The home can
include various types of structures in various square footages. For
example, a home can be a wooden framed building with an exterior of
stucco, brick, or siding. In embodiments, a home can be
distinguished from other types of buildings based on the livable
area (e.g., 500 square feet to 5000 square feet). In embodiments, a
home can also be defined as being a freestanding structure without
shared walls. A home may also be defined by zoning constraints. For
example, the home may be zoned residential instead of commercial or
industrial.
[0133] The outer housing 224 can also include a visitor detection
system 412 coupled to the outer housing 224. The visitor detection
system 412 can be an assembly of components that are collectively
configured to detect visitors in the immediate vicinity (e.g.,
within 0.5 to 50 feet) of the security system 202. The visitor
detection system 412 can include the doorbell button 212, the
camera assembly 208, and an audio input device 410. In addition,
the visitor detection system 412 can also include the motion
detector 218 and fingerprint sensor 210. The audio input device 410
can be a device that captures audio (e.g., a microphone). The audio
input device 410 can have various sensitivity ranges depending on
the application. In embodiments, the audio input device 410 can
include multiple microphones to extend the coverage area of audio
capture. For example, the audio input device can have one
microphone on board the outer housing 224 and receive input from
another microphone located within the house (e.g., through the
communication network 414).
[0134] The outer housing 224 may also include a deactivation unit
411. The deactivation unit 411 can be a component that is
communicatively coupled to the security system 202. The
deactivation unit 411 may be responsible for disabling the alert
communication system 402. In embodiments, the deactivation unit 411
is part of the alert communication system 402. The alert
communication system 402 may work passively or actively. In an
active configuration, the security system 202 can actively monitor
for a command to deactivate. For example, the security system 202
can send "activation status requested" signal to a deactivation
unit 411 in regular intervals along with a unique randomized code
and receive an "activation=True" signal from the deactivation unit
411 along with the unique randomized code. When communication is
interrupted, then a non-response of the activation status may
indicate "activation=True". When deactivated, the deactivation unit
411 transmits an "activation=False" signal along with the unique
randomized code. The actively monitoring for the command can be
advantageous where communication is lost with the deactivation unit
411 (i.e., the communication is modified or the deactivation is
spoofed by an intruder).
[0135] The deactivation unit 411 may also passively monitor for the
command. For example, an occupant may input a command through the
deactivation unit 411 that is transmitted to the security system
202. The security system 202 can receive the command passively. In
embodiments, the deactivation unit 411 may also be communicatively
coupled with a remote computing device 204. The deactivation
command may originate from the remote computing device 204 to
deactivate the alert communication system 402 in either actively or
passively.
[0136] The outer housing 224 can also include an alert
communication system 402 coupled to the outer housing 224. The
alert communication system 402 can be configurable to activate in
response to an initiation of an event. For example, an alert from
the communication device 416 that is transmitted to the security
system 202 can activate various components on the security system
202 through the alert communication system 402. The alert
communication system 402 can include components to communicate
alerts to a user (e.g., an occupant of the home). In embodiments,
the alert communication system 402 is the security system 202 or
part of the security system 202. In embodiments, the alert
communication system 402 includes a light 406 and a speaker 404.
The light 406 can comprise the diagnostic light 216 and/or the
power indicator light 220, as shown in FIG. 1, and/or any other
light coupled to the security system 202. As well, the speaker 404
may comprise the speaker 488, as illustrated in FIG. 1, and/or any
other speaker coupled to the security system 202.
[0137] In embodiments, the alert communication system 402 refers to
a collection of components for the purpose of alerting an occupant
of the building 300. The alert communication system 402 can also
refer to a control unit for the components that alert an occupant
of the building 300. The control of the alert communication system
402 can be separate from the control for the security system 202.
In embodiments, the alert communication system 402 is attached to
an exterior surface of the home (i.e., a building 300). The outer
housing 224 may be attached to an interior surface of the home
(i.e., a building 300). The remote computing device 204 can be
operated by the homeowner (i.e., a type of occupant).
[0138] The speaker 404 of the alert communication system 404 can be
configured to emit a sound in response to the initiation of the
event. For example, if the communication device 416 transmits an
alert that indicates an emergency, then the security device 202 can
emit a sound in the speaker 404 that indicates danger. The speaker
404 can be configured to emit a wide-range of sounds and various
decibel levels depending on the application. For example, a more
severe alert can be louder than a less severe alert. The security
system 202 can alert an occupant of suspicious smoke by saying the
location of the smoke and the time the smoke was detected.
[0139] The speaker 404 can simply emit a voice that says "Danger,
Danger, Danger" to alert an occupant of the building 300. The sound
emitted by the security device 202 can be unique to the type of
alert. For example, if a fire alert is transmitted by the
communication device 416, then the security device 202 can emit a
voice that says "Fire, Fire, Fire" and repeats at a set interval.
Various sounds can also be used to selectively alert other
occupants. For example, a high frequency sound of 24 kHz to 45 kHz
can selectively alert canine occupants of the building 300 without
alerting a human. In another example, a sound from 17 kHz to 23 kHz
may selectively alert children but not adults. Various patterns of
sounds can also be produced. For example, the "SOS" Morse code
pattern may be used to indicate distress.
[0140] The light 406 of the security system 202 may be configurable
to illuminate in response to the initiation of the event. The light
406 can emit a variety of colors in a variety of patterns. For
example, the light 406 can emit both a green light, a white light,
and a red light. A green light can be lit during normal operation.
A white light color can be used for ordinary alerts, such as a
power outage. A red light color can be used to indicate an imminent
emergency that alerts the occupant to leave the building 300
immediately. For example, the red light color can be used to alert
the occupant of a gas leakage or a fire or armed intruders.
[0141] In embodiments, the light 406 can flash at various
frequencies to indicate a pattern. For example, three short
flashes, followed by three long flashes, followed by three short
flashes, can indicate distress. While rapid flashes can indicate a
higher priority than slower flashes of light. The light 406 can be
coordinated with the speaker 404. For example, the light 406 can
flash at the same time that the speaker 404 makes a sound. The
light 406 can also flash before or after the emission of sound from
the speaker 404.
[0142] The alert communication system 402 can also include emission
of an odor. The odor can be discernable by an occupant to know that
something is wrong or can ward away an intruder. For example, if
the communication device 416 alerts the security system 202 of an
intruder, then a strong smell (such as that of a skunk) can trigger
a silent alarm. Various smells can be used. For example, flowery
odors can be used for non-urgent alerts (such as a water leak)
while mercaptan-based odors can be used for urgent alerts.
[0143] The alert communication system 402 can include remote
communication 407. The remote communication 407 can be responsible
for communicating with a remote computing device 204 the status of
the alarm. In embodiments, the remote communication 407 can be a
module that communicates with a security monitoring service, which
can also have a dedicated communication channel that is different
than the communication network 414 in order to alert authorities in
the event of a power outage.
[0144] In embodiments, the security system 202 is powered by an
electrical power input 408. The electrical power input 408 can be a
battery. The electrical power input 408 can also be from an
electrical source such as from a household Alternating Current. The
electrical power input 408 can also be configured to receive a
step-down voltage (e.g., around 8V to 24V) from doorbell wires 304.
The alert communication system 402 may be electrically coupled to
electrical wires 409 (through the electrical power input 408). The
electrical wires 409 can be configurable to be coupled to the
doorbell wires 304 of a home(e.g., the building 300). The alert
communication system 402 can be configurable to activate in
response to a determination that an event has been initiated
through the electrical wires 409. In embodiments, the communication
can happen over powerline networking. Various spikes in electrical
signals from the electrical wires 409 can also signal the alert
communication system 402. In embodiments, a lack of electrical
signal from the electrical wires 409 can also activate the alert
communication system 402. For example, the lack of electrical power
input 408 from the electrical wires 409 can activate the alert
communication system 402. The alert communication system 402 can
further utilize a backup battery system through the electrical
power input 408 and cause the light 406 to emit white colored light
so that an occupant can see.
[0145] The security system 202 may be configured as a passive or
active device. As a passive device, the security system 202 may
receive notifications of emergency events from the communication
device and/or the event detection device 418. For example, a smoke
detector event detection device 418 can transmit a smoke event to
the communication device, which may communicate to the security
system 202 an indication that the smoke event is occurring. The
security system 202 can be monitoring for notifications from the
communication device whenever a communication channel is
established.
[0146] As an active device, the security system 202 may be
configured to actively monitor whether the communication device
and/or event detection device 418 has detected the occurrence or
initiation of an emergency event (or adverse event). For example,
the security system 202 can periodically request from the
communication device a status of events. If there is no status,
then the security system 202 can wait until another request is
filled.
[0147] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an enhanced view of
various event detection devices 418, according to some embodiments.
The event detection devices 418 can be communicatively coupled to
the communication device. Types of event detection device 418 can
include a smoke alarm 420 or a burglar alarm 422. The event
detection device 418 can be configured to communicate with a
communication device or to the remote device 204 through the
communication network 414. In embodiments, the event detection
device 418 can be "smart" and communicate with a variety of
devices. The event detection device 418 can connect via the
Internet of Things (IoT) and may each have a unique network
identifier. The IoT may encompass various standards. For example,
standards may include ALLJOYN.RTM. (Registered by Qualcomm
Innovation Center Inc.), Thread Group, IEEE.RTM. (Registered by the
Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers, Inc.) P2413
working group, IoTivity.RTM. (Registered by Samsung Electronics
Co., Ltd.), or Representational State Transfer.
[0148] The security system 202 may comprise an alert communication
system 402 that may include a light 406, a speaker 404, and a
wireless communication system 230 that may be configured to
initiate a transmission with a remote computing device 204. For
example, the communication device may comprise a smart smoke
detector 420 (e.g. Nest Protect.RTM., registered by Google Inc.),
and in response to the smart smoke detector detecting elevated
levels of smoke 434, or elevated levels of other toxic gases, the
security system 202 may activate its alert communication system 402
(e.g. flashing a light and/or emit a sound). This may thereby alert
individuals outside the home as to the location of the home where
the emergency event is occurring.
[0149] As well, it should be appreciated that the emergency event
can comprise any type of event 424 that may require the attention
of another party. As used, event can refer to an emergency event or
an adverse event, which indicates harm to an occupant or requires
the attention of a party other than the occupant. For example, the
emergency event may comprise at least one of a fire 426, a gas leak
428, a break-in 436, elevated levels of smoke 434, elevated levels
of radon 432, elevated levels of carbon monoxide 430, and the
like.
[0150] The alert communication system 402 can be configured to
alert individuals located outside the home in any variety of ways.
For example, the alert communication system 402 can flash a bright
light emitting diode and/or a light located behind the doorbell
button 212, such as the diagnostic light 216, on the security
system 202. In some examples, the alert communication system 402
can emit a loud sound from the speaker 404. For example, the loud
sound can be alternating high and low pitch sounds that may be
heard by individuals located within 300 feet of the home. The high
and low pitch sounds can be of high and low frequencies that may be
heard by individuals located within a neighboring home and/or a
vehicle passing by. The loud sound can be a unique sound easily
detectable by individuals. As well, the sound can comprise a noise
that indicates danger or help is required.
[0151] Furthermore, the alert communication system 402 can be
configured to initiate a transmission to a remote computing device
204. For example, if the security system 202 determines that a
break-in has occurred, the security system 202 may initiate a
computing session and/or a notification with the remote computing
device 204 to alert an individual that is operating the remote
computing device 204 of the break-in 436 at the home. As well, it
should be appreciated that the security system 202 can initiate a
transmission to any other party, such as an emergency dispatcher
(e.g. 911).
[0152] The security system 202 may be configured to activate its
alert communication system 402 after a predetermined amount of
time. The predetermined amount of time may be 0 seconds, 10
seconds, 20 seconds, 1 minute, and the like. Generally, it should
be appreciated that the alert communication system 402 may activate
nearly at the same time as the communication device 416 detecting
the emergency event 424 or any time thereafter.
[0153] FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method 500 of
monitoring for an event through a communication device 416,
according to some embodiments. The method 500 can generally involve
connecting to a communication device 416 and receiving a
notification of an event from the communication device 416. The
security system 202 can react based on the event from the
communication system. The method 500 begins at block 510.
[0154] In block 510, the security system 202 can establish a
connection with the communication system. As mentioned herein, the
communication device 416 may utilize either a wired or wireless
connection 230 to communicate with the security system 202. For
example, a wireless home network that utilizes Wi-Fi may be used or
local Bluetooth.TM. pairing may be used. Once connection is
established, then the communication device 416 may be configured to
only communicate with security system 202 at the ID provided by the
security system 202. For example, the security system 202 may have
a unique IPv6 address that the communication device 416 transmits
to. The communication device 416 may also have a unique IPv6
address that the security system 202 transmits to. The security
system 202 may also be configured to receive alerts from only the
IPv6 address that belongs to the communication device 416, thus
preventing spoofing type alarms. Various permissions may be set up
using an Application Programming Interface (API) of the
communication device 416. For example, the security system 202 can
be set up as a client with read/write permissions which identifies
the security system 202 that has permission to share data with the
communication device 416.
[0155] In block 512, the security system 202 may monitor for an
event. In embodiments, the security system 202 monitors for an
event from the communication device 416. For example, the
communication device 416 may receive a notification of an event
from an event detection device 418. In embodiments, the security
system 202 can monitor for an event using localized components. For
example, the security system 202 may have a camera that is used to
monitor for suspicious activity. The event may be communicated with
the communication device 416 and the communication device 416 may
take appropriate action (e.g., notify emergency services). As
mentioned herein, the types of events may be selected from at least
one of a fire, a gas leak, a break-in, elevated levels of smoke,
elevated levels of radon, elevated levels of carbon monoxide, and
the like.
[0156] The event detection device 418 may detect an event using a
variety of methods. For example, various thresholds may be employed
to detect an event 424. For example, the elevated levels of smoke
event 434 can be based off of optical obscuration or electrostatic
precipitation. The smoke can be based off of a threshold of parts
per million or percentage of optical transmittance. The radon event
432 can be based off of PicoCuries per Liter reading from a radon
detection unit. The gas leak event 428 can be based off of an 80%
Lower Explosive Limit. Various gas detectors can be used (e.g.,
electrochemical, infrared point, infrared imaging, semiconductor,
ultrasonic, holographic, etc.). A fire event 426 may be detected
using temperature or a combination of readings from a smoke event
434 and a carbon monoxide event 430. The break-in event 436 may
utilize various sensors present in the security system 202 or
external sensors to the security system 202 (e.g., motion sensors).
The event 424 is associated with a home (i.e., building 300), and
the doorbell (i.e., security system 202) is attached to the home of
a homeowner.
[0157] In block 514, the security system 202 can determine whether
an event has been initiated. The event may be initiated whenever
the security system 202 receives a transmission from a
communication device 416 communicatively coupled to the security
system. The transmission may be over various forms of communication
and provide an indication that the event has been initiated. The
security system 202 may monitor the communication system to detect
whether the event has been initiated. In embodiments, the security
system 202 (e.g., the doorbell) can interface with a remote
computing device 204 to further communicate to an occupant that
there is an alert at the home. Communicating via the remote
computing device 204 may have the benefit of keeping occupants
informed while away from the home. The security device 202 can
establish a communication session with a remote computing device
204 in a similar manner as to the communication device 416. The
communication session may include an indication that the event that
has been initiated. For example, an occupant can receive a
communication of a fire alert on a local application on their
remote computing device 204 from the security system 202.
[0158] In block 516, the security system 202 can determine the
alarm type. In embodiments, block 516 may be optional. Despite a
variety of devices available to the security system 202, not all
devices or tools may be appropriate in certain settings. For
example, a non-urgent alert (such as elevated radon levels) may not
warrant a high-pitched, high-volume noise in the middle of the
night. The security system 202 can balance the severity of the
alert with the certainty for the alert. For example, significant
amounts of dust can trigger a smoke detector but the certainty of a
fire can be determined using a carbon monoxide detector in
conjunction with the smoke detector. The severity of a fire may be
high but if the certainty that a fire is occurring is low, then the
security system 202 can determine that another alarm type is more
appropriate. Examples of determining an alarm type are described
further herein.
[0159] In block 518, the security system 202 can activate the alert
communication system 402 in response to determining that the event
has been initiated in block 514. In embodiments, activating the
alert communication system 402 can include activating selected
components of the alert communication system 402 (e.g., the speaker
404 or the light 406). As mentioned herein, the alert communication
system 402 can include a light 406 which, when the alert
communication system 402 is activated, can cause the light 406 to
illuminate in a variety of patterns and colors. The alert
communication system 402 can also include a speaker 404 that emits
a sound in a variety of intensities, frequencies, and patterns. The
activating can also include activating a control element for the
alert communication system 402. The control element for the alert
communication system 402 can instigate a variety of patterns and
alerts for multiple components (e.g., a flashing light followed by
emission of selected sound frequencies).
[0160] In block 520, once the alert communication system 402 is
activated, the security system 202 can monitor for a command to
deactivate the alert communication system 402. In embodiments,
block 520 may be optional. For example, a user of the security
system 202 may not desire the security system 202 to alert
occupants (e.g., a false positive). The command can be a sequence
of instructions that is understood by the security system 202 to
deactivate the alert communication system 402. In embodiments, the
command can be a button press and an audible predetermined message.
For example, an occupant can push a button (e.g., the door bell
button 220) and speak an audible predetermined message such as
"Alarm Deactivate" to deactivate the alert communication system
402. In various embodiments, the deactivation unit 411 can be
configured to perform vocal recognition in order to distinguish
between the voice of the occupant with the voice of a non-occupant,
such as a prowler. Once the command is received, then the method
500 can continue to operation 522.
[0161] In block 522, the security system 202 can deactivate the
alert communication system 402 in response to receiving the command
to deactivate the alert communication system. The alert
communication system 402 may be deactivated in a variety of ways.
For example, the alert communication system 402 may deactivate
(e.g. turn off the current alert) in response to the security
system 202 receiving an indication that the doorbell button 212 has
been pressed. In some embodiments, the security system 202 may be
configured to turn off the alert communication system 402 in
response to receiving an audible predetermined message, such as a
spoken safety message or a spoken password that indicates that the
event is being attended to or has ended. In some embodiments, the
security system 202 can receive a deactivation command from the
remote computing device 204. In this manner, the individual
operating the remote computing device 204 may send a command
through the remote computing device 204 to terminate the ongoing
alert. The deactivation of the alert communication system 402 can
include selectively deactivating less than all of the components of
the alert communication system 402. For example, the deactivating
of the alert communication system 402 can include deactivating only
the localized communication (i.e., the speaker 404 and the light
406) but not the remote communication 407 with law enforcement
(e.g., a silent alarm).
[0162] FIG. 14 illustrates an example table 600 of various alarm
types that are used based on the certainty and severity of the
event, according to some embodiments. The table 600 can correspond
to block 516 in FIG. 13 where a security system 202 can determine
the alarm type. In embodiments, the alarm type may be pre-assigned
depending on the certainty and the severity of the event. For
example, an occupant may desire that a gas leak is always
associated with an audible alarm and a red light, despite a low
certainty.
[0163] The alarm type can also be based on threshold values. For
example, if the certainty of a fire is 20% but the severity is
high, the security system 202 can create a score that is based on
the severity and the certainty. The security system 202, based on
the score, can determine the type of alarm. For example, a high
severity event with a low certainty may (such as the fire) may be
associated with a sound to invite an occupant to investigate
further. A high severity event such as a gas leak but with a higher
certainty may trigger a red flash along with the sound. A low
severity event such as a baby crying can trigger a different set of
alarm types such as playing comforting music.
Customized Sound Embodiments
[0164] The security system 202, or doorbell 202, may be configured
to receive a custom sound(s) from a user and thereby emit the
custom sound in response to a particular situation(s). For example,
as illustrated in FIG. 15, a doorbell system 200 may receive a
custom message (at step 1500). A user of the system may then
optionally assign the custom message to a select visitor (at step
1502). Thereby when an indication of a presence of the select
visitor is detected by the doorbell 202 (at step 1504), the
doorbell 202 may then respond by emitting the custom message with a
speaker 404, 488 of the doorbell 202 (at step 1506). It should be
appreciated that the term "detecting" may be defined as discovering
or identifying the presence or existence of a visitor. As such, the
term "detecting" may be used interchangeably with the term
"determining."
[0165] The custom sound, or custom message, may be received by the
doorbell system 200 in a variety of ways. As shown in FIG. 16, the
doorbell system 200 may download the custom message from a remote
computer, such as a remote computing device (e.g. a smart phone)
(at step 1600). As well, the doorbell system 200 may record the
custom message (at step 1602). For example, a user of the doorbell
system 200 may record the custom message on his or her remote
computing device, such as a smart phone, (at step 1602) and then
download the custom message from the smart phone onto the doorbell
system 200. In some embodiments, the custom message may be directly
recorded by the doorbell 202 (at step 1602), such as recorded by a
microphone of the doorbell 202. Generally, it should be appreciated
that the custom message may be recorded by any type of recording
device that is communicatively coupled to the doorbell system 200
(at step 1602). In this manner, the doorbell system 200 may
download the custom message from the recording device.
[0166] As further illustrated in FIG. 16, any number of custom
messages may be recorded and/or downloaded by the doorbell system
200. For example, the doorbell system may record and/or download a
second custom message (at step 1604), a third custom message, a
fourth custom message, and any number of additional custom
messages.
[0167] The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to interact
with a visitor whereby the doorbell system 200 gives and receives
audible information. In this manner, the doorbell system 200 may
interpret information from the visitor. With reference to FIG. 17,
the doorbell system 200 (e.g. a speaker 404, 488 of the the
doorbell 202) may be configured to emit an audible question(s) (at
step 1700). The doorbell system 200 (e.g. via a microphone of the
doorbell 202) may then receive an audible response from the visitor
(at step 1702). The doorbell system 200 may thereby determine the
meaning of the audible response given by the visitor. For example,
the doorbell system 200 may determine whether the audible response
comprises a first meaning or a second meaning (at step 1704). For
example, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the audible
response comprises the first meaning, the doorbell 202 may then
emit a first audible response, via the speaker 404, 488, (at step
1706). As well, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the
audible response comprises the second meaning, the doorbell 202 may
then emit a second audible response, via the speaker 404, 488, (at
step 1708). In this manner, the doorbell system 200 may be a smart
system that is able to interpret and respond to different responses
given by the visitor.
[0168] The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to initiate a
communication session with a remote computing device 204, such as a
remote computing device 204 associated with the visitor and/or a
user of the doorbell system 200 (e.g. a resident of the building
300). For example, the doorbell system 200 may detect an indication
of a presence of a visitor (at step 1800). The doorbell system 200
may then initiate a communication session with the remote computing
device of the visitor and/or the resident (at step 1802). The
communication session may comprise any type of communication and/or
transmission to the remote computing device, such as a text
message, phone call, voicemail, email, and the like. For example,
the communication session may comprise a written message that
substantially matches a content of the custom message as emitted by
the speaker 404, 488. In this manner, hearing impaired visitors may
be able to receive the message.
[0169] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the doorbell system 200
may be configured to determine an identity of a first visitor
and/or a second visitor. Accordingly, the doorbell system 200 may
initiate a communication session, such as transmit a text message,
to a remote computing device 204 that includes at least one of the
identity of the first visitor and/or the identity of the second
visitor. Generally, it should be appreciated that the communication
session may include any type of information relating to the visitor
and/or the visitor's presence at the doorbell 200.
[0170] The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to detect
various types of visitors. In some embodiments, as illustrated in
FIG. 19, the doorbell system 200 may be referred to as a first
doorbell system 200a, which may be configured to detect an
indication of a presence of a criminal (at step 1900). The first
doorbell system 200a may detect the indication of the presence of a
visitor, such as a criminal, by receiving a notification from a
second doorbell system 200b that is communicatively coupled to the
first doorbell system 200a and remotely located with respect to the
first doorbell system 200a. For example, the second doorbell system
200b may determine that a criminal is in the area and then alert
all other doorbell systems 200 located within the vicinity,
including the first doorbell system 200a.
[0171] With reference to FIG. 19, in response to the doorbell 202
and/or doorbell system 200 detecting the indication of the presence
of the criminal, the doorbell 202 may emit a warning message with a
speaker 404, 488 of the doorbell 202 (at step 1902). The doorbell
system 200 may then initiate a communication session with a law
enforcement agency to notify the agency of the presence of the
criminal (at step 1904). It should be appreciated that the warning
message may include a message to scare away the criminal and/or
inform the criminal that the law enforcement agency has been
contacted.
[0172] As shown in FIG. 20, the doorbell system 200 may also be
configured to identify a visitor, such as a criminal or suspicious
person, by taking a picture of the visitor (at step 2000). The
doorbell system 200 may then determine, based on the picture, that
the visitor is included in a database of suspicious visitors, such
as a database of criminals, that previously visited other doorbells
202 (at step 2002). The doorbell system 200, and/or a remote
computer, may use facial recognition software to match the facial
data of the criminal with facial data from a law enforcement
database. As well, the doorbell system 200 may detect the
indication of the presence of the criminal by detecting body
language of the criminal, such as detecting evasive or suspicious
moves, detecting a fingerprint of the criminal, detecting a retina
of the criminal, and the like.
[0173] As well, the doorbell system 200 may be configured to
determine various types of visitors. As shown in FIG. 21, for
example, the doorbell system 200 may determine that a visitor is a
predetermined visitor type (at step 2100). The predetermined
visitor type may comprise any type of visitor, such as a known
visitor (e.g. a friend, a family member, and/or anyone included on
a smart phone contact list of a user), a known visitor, a
suspicious visitor, a criminal, and the like. In response to
determining that the visitor is the predetermined visitor type, the
doorbell system 200, via the doorbell 202, can select a custom
message from a first message and a second message (at step 2102).
In response to determining that the visitor is a known person, the
doorbell system 200 may emit the first message (at step 2104). In
some embodiments, the first message optionally includes a name of
the known person. For example, the doorbell system 200 may
determine that a known person named Tim, who is a friend of the
resident, is present. Accordingly, the doorbell 202 may audibly
announce, "Welcome, Tim."
[0174] Likewise, in response to determining that the visitor is a
stranger, the doorbell 202 may emit the second message (at step
2106). For example, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the
stranger is a solicitor, the doorbell 202 may emit an audible
message informing the solicitor that the resident does not purchase
items from solicitors, an apology, and an invitation to exit the
premise. Generally, it should be appreciated that the doorbell
system 200 may be configured to determine any type of visitor and
emit any type of custom message in response to the type of
visitor.
[0175] The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to emit
custom messages in response to the occurrence of predetermined
conditions. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the doorbell system 200 may
detect an indication of a presence of a visitor (at step 2200). The
doorbell system 200 may thereby determine that a predetermined
condition has occurred (at step 2202). For example, the
predetermined condition may be a time of day, a period of days,
such as a time when the resident(s) is on vacation, an event (e.g.
a birthday party, during a football game, etc.), and the like.
Accordingly, in response to the indication of the presence of the
visitor and the occurrence of the predetermined condition, the
doorbell 202 may thereby emit a custom message (at step 2204). It
should be appreciated that the custom message may correspond with
the occurrence of the predetermined condition. For example, if the
predetermined condition is the occurrence of a game in which the
resident's favorite football team is competing, then the custom
message may be the fight song for the football team.
[0176] The predetermined condition may also be an occurrence when
the resident(s) is away from the building 300 or when the
resident(s) is located within the building 300. With specific
reference to FIG. 23, the doorbell system 200 may be configured to
record and/or download more than one custom message, such as a
first custom message and/or a second custom message, and then emit
the respective custom message in particular situations (at step
2300). Accordingly, the method may thereby include determining
whether a resident is located within the building 300 or whether
the resident is not located within the building 300 (at step 2302).
In response to determining that the resident is present within the
building 300, the doorbell 202 may thereby emit the first custom
message (at step 2304). For example, the first custom message may
be a message informing the visitor that the resident will be right
there, such as, "Please wait a moment. Mr. Banks will be right
there" (whereby Mr. Banks is the resident). In response to
determining that the resident is not present within the building,
the doorbell 202 may thereby emit the second custom message (at
step 2306). The second custom message may include a message
informing the visitor that the resident is busy (if the visitor is
a suspicious person--to avoid a robbery) or away from the building
300 (if the visitor is a known person). For example, the second
custom message may state, "I'm sorry. Mr. Banks is currently
occupied. Please come back another time."
[0177] The doorbell system 200, via the doorbell 202, may be
configured to receive the custom message in response to a variety
of inputs as received by the doorbell system 200. For example, as
shown by FIG. 24, the doorbell 202 may receive an indication of a
first button press from a button 212 of the doorbell 202 (at step
2400). In response to receiving the first button press, the
doorbell 202 may thereby record the custom message and store the
custom message within a memory of the doorbell system 200 (at step
2402). As well, the doorbell system 200 may be configured to
receive an input, such as receive an indication of a second button
press from the doorbell 202 (at step 2404). In response to
receiving the second button press, the doorbell system 200 can
thereby erase the custom message from the memory of the doorbell
system 200 (at step 2406).
[0178] It should be appreciated that any reference to first button
press, second button press, and the like, can refer to any number
of button presses or duration of respective button presses. For
example, the first button press can comprise two button presses and
the second button press can comprise one button press. As well, the
first button press can comprise one button press and the second
button press can comprise two button presses. In some embodiments,
the first button press can comprise the button 212 being pressed
for a first duration and the second button press can comprise the
button 212 being pressed for a second duration. It should be
appreciated that the first duration can be greater than, equal to,
or less than the second duration.
[0179] However, it should be appreciated that the inputs may be any
type of inputs into the doorbell system 200. For example, in
conjunction or instead of a first and second button press, the
doorbell system 200 may be configured to receive various motions
from the user. In some embodiments, the camera 208 of the doorbell
202 may detect a first motion from the user, such as the user
waving a hand once. In response to detecting the first motion, the
doorbell 202 may thereby record the custom message and store the
custom message within a memory of the doorbell system 200. As well,
the camera 208 may detect a second motion from the user, such as
the user waving a hand twice. In response to detecting the second
motion, the doorbell 202 may thereby erase the custom message from
the memory of the doorbell system 200. Generally, it should be
appreciated that any type of input, such as a bodily motion, may be
received by the doorbell system 200.
[0180] The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to provide
security and anonymity to a user of the doorbell system 200. For
example, as shown in FIG. 25, the doorbell system 200 may record
and/or download a first custom message (at step 2500). The first
custom message may be spoken by a first voice. The doorbell system
200 may be configured to effectively convert the first message into
a second message, whereby the second message is spoken by a second
voice that is different from the first voice. The content of the
first custom message can substantially match the content of the
second custom message. As such, the doorbell system 200 may emit
the second custom message (at step 2502) that is spoken by the
second voice. In this manner, the doorbell system 200 may
effectively protect the identity of the user (e.g. resident) of the
doorbell system 200.
[0181] With respect to the various predetermined conditions, as
shown in FIG. 26, the doorbell system 200 may create a schedule of
a first timeframe to emit a first sound, a second timeframe to emit
a second sound, and a third timeframe to emit a third sound (at
step 2600). The doorbell system 200 may thereby determine that a
visitation time of the visitor is within the first timeframe (at
step 2602), and in response to determining that the visitation time
of the visitor is within the first timeframe, the doorbell 202 may
emit the first sound (at step 2604). Accordingly, if the doorbell
system 200 determines that the visitation time of the visitor is
within the second timeframe, the doorbell 202 may emit the second
sound. Likewise, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the
visitation time of the visitor is within the third timeframe, the
doorbell 202 may emit the third sound.
[0182] For example, the first timeframe might include overnight and
morning hours when the resident is either sleeping or getting ready
for work. The first sound may thereby inform a visitor that the
resident is busy and that the visitor should come back another
time. As well, the second timeframe might include daytime hours,
when the resident is away at work. The second sound might include a
message that the resident is not available and that the visitor can
reach the resident at work or on the resident's smart phone, if the
visitor is a known or trusted visitor. Finally, the third timeframe
might include a time during evening hours when the resident is home
from work. The third sound may thereby inform the visitor that the
resident will answer the door shortly. Generally, it should be
appreciated that the doorbell system 200 may be configured to
accommodate any timeframe or number of timeframes. As well, the
doorbell system 200 may be configured to receive and thereby emit
any sound in response to any of the respective timeframes.
[0183] With reference to FIG. 27, the doorbell system 200 may be
configured to receive any number of custom messages and then emit
respective messages in response to the doorbell system 200 (e.g.
the doorbell 202) detecting an indication of a presence of any
number of respective visitors. The doorbell 202 may emit a first
custom audible message with a speaker 404, 488 in response to the
doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of a presence of a
first visitor (at step 2700). As well, the doorbell 202 may emit a
second custom audible message with the speaker 404, 488 in response
to the doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of a presence of
a second visitor (at step 2702). Likewise, the doorbell 202 may
emit a third custom audible message with the speaker 404, 488 in
response to the doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of a
presence of a third visitor (at step 2704).
[0184] The first, second and third custom audible messages can be
assigned to specific visitors or groups of visitors. For example,
the first custom audible message may be assigned to a specific
first visitor. As well, the first custom audible message may be
assigned to a specific group or type of visitor, such as any known
visitor.
[0185] As shown in FIG. 28, the doorbell system 200 may be referred
to as a first doorbell system 200a that is attached to a first
building 300a. The first doorbell system 200a may be
communicatively coupled to a second doorbell system 200b that is
attached to an exterior of a second building 300b that is remotely
located with respect to the first building 300a. Accordingly, the
first doorbell 202a may also be communicatively coupled to the
second doorbell 202b. Thereby, the first doorbell system 202a may
detect an indication of a presence of a first visitor by receiving
a first notification from the second doorbell system 202b (at step
2800). As well, the first doorbell system 202a may detect an
indication of a presence of a second visitor by receiving a second
notification from the second doorbell system 202b (at step 2802).
In this manner, the first doorbell system 202a and the second
doorbell system 202b may be networked. This may allow doorbell
systems 200 that are located within a specific area, such as a
neighborhood, to communicate and transmit data to each other. The
network of doorbell systems may exchange information and/or data to
thereby monitor the entire neighborhood.
Chime Embodiments
[0186] Chimes 302 (shown in FIGS. 3 and 31-37) can include all of
the features, assemblies, parts, systems, and components of any
doorbell 202 described herein or incorporated by reference. Chimes
302 can include all the items shown in FIG. 12.
[0187] The chime 302 is a remote communication device that can be
configured to communicate with any doorbell 202 described herein or
incorporated by reference.
[0188] Referring now to FIGS. 31-37, a user can use the remote
computing device 204 to select a sound emitted by the chime 302
(e.g., a remote communication device) located inside the building
or silence the chime 302 located inside the building. Several
embodiments include many different sounds that the chime 302 can
emit when someone "rings" the doorbell 202 or is detected by the
doorbell 202.
[0189] As illustrated in FIG. 31, the chime 302 may receive backup
or primary power from a power source of a building 300 and/or a
battery 462b located within the chime. As well, the chime 302 may
include various components to detect different events within the
vicinity of the chime 302. For example, embodiments may include a
motion detector 218 configurable to detect motion along an inside
portion of the building 300. The chime 302 may also include a
camera assembly 208b configurable to capture an image along the
inside portion of the building 300. As well, the chime 302 may
include a speaker 488b configurable to emit sounds and a microphone
484b configurable to receive an audible message spoken by a
user.
[0190] Even still, in embodiments, the chime 302 (e.g., a remote
communication device) may include additional components including,
but not limited to, a thermometer 512b configurable to determine
temperature along the inside portion of the building 300 and a
humidity sensor 305 configurable to determine humidity along the
inside portion of the building 300. The chime 302 may include a
detection system 528b that may include miscellaneous detection
components to monitor and detect various other events. As well, the
chime 302 may include a communication system 504b configurable to
communicatively couple the chime to the doorbell 202, the remote
computing device 204, and/or any other communication device. The
communication system 504b may communicate via WiFi, Bluetooth,
Bluetooth Low Energy, Thread, ZigBee, and the like. It should be
appreciated that the chime 302 may utilize none, some, or all the
same components as utilized by the doorbell 202.
[0191] A user can select a sound to be emitted by the chime 302 on
her remote computing device 204 by using a control application 600.
The remote computing device 204 can then send the sound to the
chime 302 via the doorbell 202 (and/or via a server 206 and a
wireless network 308). The sound can be a song, a greeting recorded
by the user, or any other type of sound. Some embodiments include
using a remote computing device 204 to download a sound from the
Internet, sending the sound (or data associated with the sound) to
the doorbell 202 (e.g., in response to using the remote computing
device 204 to select the sound), sending the sound (or data
associated with the sound) from the doorbell 202 to the chime 302,
and/or emitting the sound from the chime 302.
[0192] As shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the chime 302 can include an
electrical plug 307. The plug 307 can be mechanically and
electrically coupled to a power outlet 309 (as shown in FIG.
33).
[0193] As illustrated in FIG. 34, the doorbell 202 can serve as a
communication bridge between the remote computing device 204 and
the chime 302. The doorbell 202 can be used to enable the remote
computing device 204 to control the chime 302. A user can select an
option (e.g., a song or a chime setting) on the remote computing
device 204, then the system can send information regarding the
option to and/or from the computing device 204. Then, the system
can send information regarding the option from the doorbell 202 to
the chime 302 in response to the user selecting the option via the
remote computing device 204. The communication 230 between the
computing device 204 and the doorbell 202 can be wireless. The
communication 230 between the doorbell 202 and the chime 302 can be
wireless.
[0194] As illustrated in FIG. 36, the chime 302 (e.g., a remote
communication device) can serve as a communication bridge between
the remote computing device 204 and the doorbell 202. This can be
especially helpful when the doorbell 202 cannot access the wireless
network 308 of the building 300 to which the doorbell is
mechanically and/or electrically coupled. The chime 302 can be
located inside the building 300, and thus, is more likely to access
the wireless network 308 of the building 300 (due to a superior
signal strength of the wireless network 308 at the chime 302
compared to the signal strength at the doorbell 202, which can be
located much farther from a router of the wireless network 308).
Some embodiments include configuring the chime 302 to serve as a
communication bridge between the remote computing device 204 and
the doorbell 202 in response to a first wireless signal strength of
the wireless network 308 at a first location of the chime 302 being
greater than a second wireless signal strength of the wireless
network 308 at a second location of the doorbell 202.
[0195] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the chime 302 (e.g., a remote
communication device) can serve as a communication bridge between
the doorbell 202 and a wireless network 308 of a building 300.
[0196] FIG. 32 illustrates embodiments of the chime 302 (e.g., a
remote communication device) that include at least one plug 307
that may be electrically, mechanically and/or communicatively
coupled to a power outlet 309. The one plug 307 can thereby
electrically and/or communicatively couple the doorbell 202 to the
wires of the power outlet 309.
[0197] The system 200 can be configured to communicate in various
manners. In some embodiments, the remote computing device 204
communicates directly with the doorbell 202, while the doorbell 202
communicates directly with the chime 302. In some embodiments, the
remote computing device 204 communicates directly with the chime
302, while the doorbell 202 communicates directly with the chime.
Generally, it should be understood that the system 200 can be
configured in any manner by the user.
Methods of Using a Chime
[0198] According to various embodiments, the doorbell system 200
can emit sounds from a chime 302. As illustrated in FIG. 38, the
method can include selecting the sound by a remote computing device
204 (at step 1300). For example, the remote computing device 204
can allow a user to select the sound by toggling a radio button
(not shown) as displayed on a screen of the remote computing device
204. In some examples, the user can select the sound by selecting a
song or any type of audio file from a database, such as a music
database (e.g. iTunes.RTM.), that is accessible through the remote
computing device 204. In some embodiments, the remote computing
device 204 can be a server 206, a communication device with a user
interface (e.g. smart phone, tablet, etc.), and the like.
[0199] With continued reference to FIG. 38, methods can also
include sending a data file, which can include a first data file
213 and/or a second data file 211, to a doorbell 202 that is
communicatively coupled to the remote computing device 204 (at step
1302). The data file 211, 213 can include information that can
represent the sound. The data file 211, 213 can be sent by the
remote computing device 204 to the server 206 to the doorbell 202.
However, in some embodiments the data file 211, 213 can be sent by
the remote computing device 204 to the doorbell 202. As shown in
FIG. 30, the remote computing device 204 can instruct the server
206, via a wireless communication 230 including a signal 604, to
send the data file 211, 213 to the doorbell 202.
[0200] As well, methods can include the doorbell 202 sending the
data file 211, 213 to the chime 302 that is communicatively coupled
to the doorbell 202 and remotely located with respect to the
doorbell 202 (at step 1304). In embodiments, the data file 211, 213
is transmitted wirelessly to the chime 302. As well, in
embodiments, the data file 211, 213 is transmitted via a wire, such
as wire 304b, as shown in FIG. 38. In this manner, the data file
211, 213 is transmitted via a sound file communication 209.
[0201] There are various ways that the chime 302 can receive the
data file 211, 213. In some methods, the data file can be
downloaded from a web server, by at least one of the doorbell and
the chime. Even still, in some embodiments, the remote computing
device 204 can download the data file from the web server.
[0202] Methods can also include emitting the sound from a speaker
488b of the chime 302 at least partially in response to the chime
302 receiving the data file 211, 213 and at least partially in
response to the doorbell 202 detecting an indication of a presence
of a visitor. In this manner, when a visitor visits the building
300, the doorbell system 200 can alert the user by playing any type
of customized or prerecorded sound through the speaker 488b of the
chime 302.
[0203] As well, users of the doorbell system 200 may configure the
system 200 to emit the sound in accordance with certain parameters,
such as sound emission parameters. Accordingly, methods may include
receiving, by the doorbell 202, a sound emission parameter from the
remote computing device 204. Methods may also include emitting the
sound from a speaker 488b of the chime 302 in response to the
doorbell system 202 determining that the sound emission parameter
has been met. In some embodiments, the sound emission parameters
may comprise predetermined timeframes. For example, the user may
elect a sound emission parameter, such as a "do not disturb"
parameter, so that the chime 302 does not emit the sound during
predetermined hours of the day. As well, in embodiments, the sound
emission parameters 302 may comprise specific visitors. For
example, if an unknown visitor or unwelcome visitor (e.g. a
door-to-door salesperson) visits the building 300, the sound
emission parameters can instruct the chime 302 not to emit the
sound when the doorbell system 200 detects the presence of the
unknown or unwelcome visitor.
[0204] The chime 302 may also be configured to emit an audible
message from a speaker 488b of the chime 302. The audible message
may be a message that is spoken by a user and recorded by the
doorbell 202, the remote computing device 204, and/or the chime 302
itself. In embodiments, a user of the system 200 may wish to
transmit an audible message through the chime 302. For example, a
first resident may speak an audible message such as, "Honey, I'll
be home in 30 minutes," into his/her remote computing device 204.
Accordingly, the system 200 may emit the audible message from the
chime 302. Furthermore, in embodiments, the first resident my type
a message into his/her remote computing device 204, and the system
200 may thereby announce an audible message that comprises the
contents of the typed message.
[0205] The chime 302 may also be used to detect motion and capture
audio and video recordings along an inside portion of a building
300. Specifically, the method may include the motion detector 218b
of the chime 302 detecting a first motion within the inside portion
of the building 300. Methods may also include initiating a first
communication session with the remote computing device 204 in
response to the motion detector 218b of the chime 302 detecting the
first motion. The first communication session may include a first
notification of the first motion detected by the motion detector of
the chime. For example, the chime 302 may detect a prowler within
the inside portion of the building 300 and the system 200 may
thereby send an alert to the remote computing device 204 of the
user.
[0206] In embodiments, the method may also include the motion
detector 218b of the chime 302 detecting a second motion within an
inside portion of the building 300. It should be appreciated that
the second motion may be different from the first motion, or the
same. The system 200 may thereby initiate a second communication
session with a second remote computing device 204b in response to
the motion detector 218b of the chime 302 detecting the second
motion. The second communication session can comprise a second
notification of the second motion detected by the chime 302. In
this regard, the first remote computing device 204a may not receive
the second communication session. Accordingly, the system 200 can
be configured to alert different users based on different motions
within the building 300. For example, the chime 302 may detect
suspicious motions and thereby alert the police. In some examples,
the chime 302 may detect non-suspicious motions within the building
300, such as the dog walking around, whereupon an alert is sent to
the remote computing device 204 of the resident.
[0207] As well, methods may include selecting more than one sound
and sending the more than one sound to the chime 302. For example,
methods may include selecting a second sound by the remote
computing device 204 and thereby sending a second data file
comprising second information to the doorbell 202. The second
information may represent the second sound. As well, methods may
include sending the second data file to the chime 302.
[0208] In embodiments, the chime 302 may be configured to emit
different sounds in response to different motions detected by the
motion detector 218 of the doorbell along an outside portion of the
building 300. For example, methods may include detecting a first
motion, by a motion detector 218 of the doorbell 202, along the
outside portion of the building 300. In response to the doorbell
202 detecting the first motion, the chime may thereby emit the
first sound from a speaker 488b of the chime 302. As well, the
motion detector 218 of the doorbell 202 may detect a second motion
along the outside portion of the building 300. It should be
appreciated that the second motion may be different from the first
motion, or the same. Accordingly, methods may include emitting the
second sound from the speaker 488 of the chime 302 in response to
the doorbell 202 detecting the second motion. In this manner, the
chime 302 may be configured to audibly alert people within the
building 300 as to whether various motions have been detected by
the doorbell 202. In embodiments, the chime 302 may emit an audible
alarm if the doorbell 202 detects a suspicious motion. In
embodiments, the chime 302 may emit a more friendly sound (e.g.
"ding-dong") if the doorbell 202 detects a non-suspicious
motion.
[0209] As illustrated in FIG. 39, this disclosure also includes a
method of using a doorbell system 200 to emit a sound from a chime
302. The method may include selecting a sound by a remote computing
device 204 (at step 1400) and sending a data file 211, 213
comprising information to the chime 302 (at step 1402). It should
be appreciated that the information may represent the sound. As
well, the data file 211, 213 may be sent to the chime 302 by the
remote computing device 204 and/or the server 206. Furthermore,
methods may include detecting an indication of a presence of a
visitor with a doorbell 202 (at step 1404) and emitting the sound
from a speaker 488b of the chime 302 in response to detecting the
indication of the presence of the visitor (at step 1406).
[0210] In addition to detecting motion, the chime 302 and/or the
doorbell 202 may also capture audio, images and/or video. For
example, as shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, in response to detecting a
motion with the motion detector 218b of the chime 302, methods may
include using the camera 208b of the chime 302 to capture an image
and/or video within the inside portion of the building 300. It
should be appreciated that the image and/or video may correspond to
the motion detected by the chime 302. The image and/or video may
thereby be sent to the doorbell 202 and/or the remote computing
device 204 where the image and/or video can be viewed via a control
application 600 viewed on a display 603 of the computing device
204.
[0211] As well, the method may use a microphone 484b of the chime
to detect and record audio within the inside portion of the
building 300. The audio recording may thereby be transmitted to the
doorbell 202 and/or the remote computing device 204, where it can
be played back.
[0212] As well, the system 200 may be configured to respond in
other various ways in response to detecting a motion. For instance,
in embodiments, in response to detecting a motion with the motion
detector 218b of the chime 302, the doorbell 202 may flash a light
216, 220 to thereby indicate to people passing by the building 300
that there is an event underway at the building 300. This may serve
useful to personnel (e.g. law enforcement) to thereby determine the
exact location of the building 300.
[0213] The chime 302 may be configured to emit any various type of
sound in response to any of the previously mentioned components
detecting various events. In embodiments, the chime 302 may emit a
first sound in response to the doorbell detecting an indication of
a presence of a visitor. As well, the chime 302 may emit a second
sound in response to the motion detector 218b detecting motion
along the inside portion of the building 300. Furthermore, if
thermometer 512b detects that the temperature has exceeded a
predetermined threshold, the chime 302 may emit a third sound, such
as an announcement of the temperature as detected by the
thermometer 528b. Even still, the chime 302 may be configured to
emit a fourth sound in response to the humidity sensor 305
detecting that a predetermined humidity has been met.
[0214] As illustrated in FIG. 40, the disclosure also includes
methods of identifying visitors and emitting different sounds
according to the visitor detected. For example, methods may include
recognizing, by a doorbell 202, a first visitor (at step 1500). The
method may include emitting the first sound from the chime 302 in
response to recognizing the first visitor (at step 1502). As well,
the method may include emitting a second sound from the chime in
response to not recognizing, by the doorbell 202, a second visitor
(at step 1506). It should be appreciated that the first sound and
the second sounds can be different, or the same.
[0215] In order to detect the visitor, methods may include
recognizing the first visitor and/or the second visitor by
detecting various traits, such as a physical trait of the
respective visitor. Physical traits can include traits such as a
fingerprint, gait, body type, height, silhouette traits, silhouette
volume, silhouette dimensions, other physical characteristics, and
the like. As well, the system 200 may be configured to recognize
the first visitor and/or the second visitor by the doorbell 202
detecting a trait of an electronic device in the possession of the
first visitor and/or the second visitor. For example, the system
200 may be configured to detect a first remote computing device
204d associated with the first visitor and/or a second remote
computing device 204e associated with the second visitor. In
response to detecting a visitor by physical traits and/or
electronic traits, the chime 302 may emit a sound associated with
the particular visitor.
[0216] The following patent applications, which are incorporated by
reference herein, describe additional embodiments of recognizing
visitors: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/135,133; filed
Mar. 18, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/016,050; filed
Jun. 23, 2014; and entitled IDENTITY VERIFICATION USING A SOCIAL
NETWORK; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/016,053; filed
Jun. 23, 2014; and entitled IDENTITY VERIFICATION USING A SOCIAL
NETWORK AND A NAME OF A VISITOR; and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/016,057; filed Jun. 23, 2014; and entitled
IDENTITY VERIFICATION OF FREQUENT AND NON-FREQUENT VISITORS.
Wired Communication Embodiments
[0217] In addition to the doorbell system 200 being configured to
be electrically and communicatively coupled via any wireless
communication standard, the doorbell system 200 may also be
electrically and communicatively coupled via any type of wired
communication standard (e.g. wires). In embodiments, the wires may
be the copper wires of the building 300.
[0218] As shown in FIG. 36, the doorbell system 200 may be coupled
to a doorbell power supply 312 of a building 300. Accordingly, the
doorbell system 200 may include a first wire 304c that may
electrically couple the doorbell 202 to the power supply 312 of the
building 300. As well, the doorbell system 200 may include a second
wire 304b that may electrically and/or communicatively couple the
chime 302 to the doorbell 202. As well, the doorbell system 200 may
include a third wire 304a that may electrically couple the chime
302 to the power supply 312 to form a circuit comprising the first
wire 304c, the doorbell 202, the second wire 304b, the chime 302,
the third wire 304a, and the power supply 312.
[0219] Because the doorbell 202 may be communicatively coupled to
the chime 302 via the second wire 304b, the chime 302 may be
configured to receive a first data file from the doorbell 202 via
the second wire 304b. As well, the doorbell system 200 may include
a sound file communication 209 that may be sent from the doorbell
202 to the chime 302 via the second wire 304b. In some embodiments,
the sound file communication 209 may comprise at least one thousand
bytes. As well, in embodiments, the sound file communication 209
may comprise less than one thousand bytes. It should also be
appreciated that the second wire 304b may enable two-way
communication from the doorbell 202 to the chime 302 and/or from
the chime 302 to the doorbell 202.
[0220] In embodiments, the first data file may comprise commands to
perform various operations or put the doorbell system 200 into
various settings. For example, the first data file may comprise a
command configured to place the chime 302 into silent mode, such
that the chime 302 does not emit a sound. Likewise, the first data
file may comprise a command configured to adjust a volume setting
of the chime 302. Even still, the first data file may comprise a
command configured to adjust a duration of a notification sound
emitted by the chime 302. Generally, it should be appreciated that
the first data file may command the chime 302 to perform any such
operation.
[0221] Even still, the data file may comprise data gathered by the
doorbell system 200, such as a video recorded by the doorbell 202.
Accordingly, the data file may include information regarding an
event that occurred outside the chime 302, such as the presence of
a prowler or an image of an object associated with a motion
detected by the system 200. In this regard, the data file may
comprise identifying information regarding the person and/or object
detected by the chime 302. For example, the doorbell 202 and/or
chime 302 may detect a person located outside or inside the
building 300. The chime may then receive the data file that
comprises the identity of the person as detected by the doorbell
202 and/or chime 302. As well, the doorbell 202 may wirelessly
receive the first data file from the remote computing device 204.
In this manner, the doorbell 202 may receive various files, such as
audio, and an image and/or video as recorded by the chime via the
first wire. It should also be appreciated that the chime 302 may
receive the various files from the doorbell 202 and/or the remote
computing device 204.
[0222] As illustrated in FIG. 41, the disclosure also includes a
method of electrically coupling a doorbell system 200 to a doorbell
power supply 312 of a building 300. The method may include coupling
a doorbell 202 to a remote chime 302 via a first wire 304c (at step
1600). As well, the method may include receiving, by the doorbell
202, a first data file comprising information (at step 1602). As
further shown in FIG. 41, the method may include sending a second
data file comprising the information from the doorbell to the
remote chime via the first wire (at step 1604).
[0223] The information may represent a sound that was unknown to
the chime 302 prior to receiving the second data file. In this
regard, the method may include emitting the sound from the chime
302 at least partially in response to receiving the second data
file. In this regard, the method may include the chime using the
second data file to emit a sound. In some embodiments, the second
data file may comprise at least one thousand bytes. As well, in
embodiments, the second data file may comprise less than one
thousand bytes.
[0224] As well, the method may include emitting the sound from the
chime 302 at least partially in response to the chime 302 receiving
a sound emission parameter from the doorbell 202 and/or the remote
computing device 204. For example, the chime 302 may receive a
sound emission parameter to only emit the sound between the hours
of 9 am and 9 pm. Accordingly, if the system 200 detects a presence
of a visitor between 9 am and 9 pm, and in response to the chime
302 having received the data file, the chime 302 may emit a sound
in response to the doorbell system 200 having determined that the
sound emission parameter has been met.
Chime-Hub Communication Embodiments
[0225] In embodiments, the chime 302 can serve as the communication
hub that links the doorbell 202 to the remote computing device 204,
and vice versa. The chime 302 can be configured as the
communication hub for a variety of reasons. For example, in certain
situations, the doorbell system can be configured to detect whether
the doorbell 202 comprises inadequate wireless performance to
communicate with a remote computing device 204 via at least one of
the wireless network and a cellular network. Accordingly, when the
doorbell 202 receives inadequate wireless performance, the doorbell
202 can thereby communicate with the chime 302, which in turn
communicates with the remote computing device 204 to thereby
communicatively couple the doorbell 202 to the remote computing
device 204.
[0226] Accordingly, and as illustrated in FIG. 42, methods of using
the doorbell system can include coupling communicatively the chime
302 to a wireless network of the building 300 (at step 1700). The
chime 302 can thereby be communicatively coupled to the doorbell
202 and to a remote computing device 204 (at step 1700).
[0227] In embodiments, the doorbell system can be used to detect an
indication of a presence of a visitor and thereby transmit the
indication from the doorbell 202 to the remote computing device 204
via the chime 302. The presence of the visitor can be detected via
a variety of indications. For example, methods can include
detecting, by the doorbell 202, a trigger of a button 212 of the
doorbell 202 (at step 1702).
[0228] As further illustrated in FIG. 42, methods can also include
sending an alert 232a, such as a visitor alert 232a, from the
doorbell 202 to the chime 302 and thereby sending the visitor alert
232a from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 (at step
1706). In this manner, the chime 302 can communicatively couple the
doorbell 202 to the remote computing device 204. As such, the chime
302 can serve as the hub that communicatively couples the doorbell
202 to the remote computing device 204. In some embodiments, the
visitor alert 232a, 232b can be transmitted via the data file 213,
first data file 213b, second data file 213a, and/or the data file
211.
[0229] Accordingly, the visitor alert 232a can be sent from the
doorbell 202 to the chime 302 and/or the remote computing device
204 by a variety of methods. For example, in some embodiments, the
doorbell 202 can be communicatively coupled to the chime 302 via a
wire, a wireless network of the building 300, and/or a cellular
network. As well, the chime 302 can be communicatively coupled to
the remote computing device 204 via the wireless network of the
building 300 and/or a cellular network. Methods can thereby include
sending the visitor alert 232a from the doorbell 202 to the chime
302 via any combination of transmission systems including the wire,
wireless network of the building 300, and/or cellular network (at
step 1708). As well, methods can include sending the visitor alert
232a from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 via any
combination including the wireless network of the building 300
and/or cellular network (at step 1708).
[0230] In some situations, the doorbell 202 may receive a wireless
signal, but the wireless signal may be inadequate to transmit
specific communications from the doorbell 202 to the remote
computing device 204. In these situations, the chime 302 may serve
as the communication hub between the doorbell 202 and the remote
computing device 204. Accordingly, methods may include sending the
visitor alert 232a from the chime 302 to the remote computing
device 204 in response to the doorbell system detecting that the
doorbell 202 comprises inadequate wireless performance to send the
visitor alert 232a to the remote computing device 204 via at least
one of the wireless network and a cellular network (at step 1710).
Described differently, some methods can include sending the visitor
alert 232a from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 in
response to the doorbell system detecting that a wireless signal of
the doorbell 202 is below a threshold (at step 1712).
[0231] The doorbell 202, remote computing device 204, and the chime
302 may be located in different locations with respect to each
other. For example, the doorbell 202 may be located outside of the
building 300, the chime 302 may be located inside the building 300,
and the remote computing device 204 can be remotely located with
respect to the building 300. As illustrated in FIG. 43, methods may
include sending the visitor alert 232a from the doorbell 202 to the
chime 302 while the doorbell 202 is located outside the building
300 and while the chime 302 is located inside the building 300 (at
step 1800). As well, methods may include sending the visitor alert
232a from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 that may
be located inside or outside of the building 300.
[0232] The visitor alert 232a can take various forms that alert a
user that a visitor is present at the doorbell 202 or that a
visitor has left a message for the user via the doorbell 202. In
this regard, the visitor alert 232a can comprise a video, an image,
a sound, a text message, an email, a phone call, and the like. With
reference to FIG. 42, methods can include capturing the video
and/or image via a camera assembly 208 of the doorbell 202 (at step
1704). As well, in embodiments where the visitor alert 232a
comprises a sound, methods can include recording the sound with a
microphone 484 of the doorbell 202. Methods can even include the
visitor making a phone call through the doorbell 202 to the remote
computing device 204, whereby the chime 302 communicatively couples
the doorbell 202 to the remote computing device 204 to enable the
phone call.
[0233] Upon the doorbell 202 capturing video, images, sounds, and
the like, the doorbell system can thereby include various
communications between the doorbell 202 and the chime 302, and
between the chime 302 and the remote computing device 204. For
example, the doorbell system can include a first communication from
the doorbell 202 to the chime 302. The first communication can
include a video and/or image taken by a camera 208 of the doorbell
202. Accordingly, the doorbell system can include a second
communication from the chime 302 to the remote computing device
204. The second communication can also comprise the video.
[0234] Even still, the chime 302 can be communicatively coupled via
the wireless network and/or cellular network to other peripheral
devices, such as a door lock (e.g. a smart door lock) (at step
1802), a remote sensor (e.g. a fire alarm, a smoke alarm, a carbon
monoxide detector, and a burglar alarm) (at step 1804), and the
like. In this regard, the chime 302 can serve as the communication
hub, not only between the doorbell 202 and the remote computing
device 204, but also between the doorbell 202, the remote computing
device 204, the door lock, the remote sensor, and any other
peripheral device.
[0235] By configuring the chime 302 as the communication hub
between such devices, the chime 302 may be used to transmit and
communicate messages and instructions between devices. For example,
a user may enter an instruction on a remote computing device 204 to
lock a front door lock. The instruction may then be sent from the
remote computing device 204 to the chime 302 whereby the chime 302
sends the instruction to the front door lock to move to a locked
position. In response, the front door lock may lock the front
door.
[0236] In another example, the chime 302 may detect an indication
of an adverse event and/or receive the indication of the adverse
event from the remote sensor. The adverse event can comprise
various events, such as a motion, breaking glass, fire, a fire
alarm sound, smoke, and the like. Accordingly, methods can include
directly detecting an adverse event with the chime 302 (at step
1806), such as detecting the sound of glass breaking via a
microphone of the chime 302. As well, methods can include the chime
302 receiving an indication of the adverse event from the remote
sensor that is communicatively coupled to the chime 302, whereby
the remote sensor is configured to detect adverse events. As
illustrated in FIG. 43, methods can include sending an alert 232b
of the adverse event (e.g. an adverse event alert 232b) to the
remote computing device 204 in response to detecting the adverse
event (at step 1808). As should be appreciated, the adverse event
alert 232b can comprise a notification of the adverse event to
thereby put the user on notice of the adverse event.
[0237] The chime 302 can be configured to communicate with other
devices, such as the remote computing device 204, remote sensors,
and the like, via any wireless personal area network. For example,
the chime 302 can be configured to communicate via Bluetooth,
Bluetooth low energy, and the like. In this manner the chime 302
can communicate with Bluetooth low energy tags.
[0238] In various embodiments, the chime 302 may include a light
configurable to illuminate an area or provide ambient lighting for
comfort, such as a nightlight. The light may comprise the
diagnostic light 216, the power indicator light 220, and/or any
other light electrically coupled to the chime 302. As well, the
light may be activated by various means, such as in response to an
audible message from a user (e.g. "Max, turn on the light"). Even
still, the light may be configurable to activate in response to
external conditions, such as darkness of an adjacent area, much
like a nightlight.
[0239] Referring now to FIG. 36, a system can include a remote
sensor 418 that is located outside of the doorbell 202, outside of
the chime 302, and outside of the remote computing device 204. The
remote sensor 418 can be located inside or outside of the building
300. The remote sensor 418 can include a speaker 488c that can emit
sounds 236 (e.g., alarm sounds). A microphone 484b (shown in FIG.
31) of the chime 302 can detect (e.g., "hear") the sounds 236.
Then, the chime 302 can send a notification to the remote computing
device 204 in response to detecting the sounds 236 and/or in
response to receiving a wireless communication 230 from the remote
sensor 418.
[0240] Remote sensors 418 can include a fire alarm, a smoke alarm,
a carbon monoxide detector, a motion sensor, a glass-break sensor,
and a burglar alarm. For example, the chime 302 can listen for a
smoke alarm. Then, the chime 302 can send a notification to the
remote computing device 204 in response to hearing the alarm sound
of the smoke alarm.
[0241] Some embodiments include sending a second alert from the
chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 in response to
receiving, by the chime 302, a communication from the remote sensor
418. Several embodiments include coupling communicatively the chime
302 to a remote sensor 418. The remote sensor 418 can comprise at
least one of a fire detector, a smoke detector, and a carbon
monoxide detector. Embodiments can also include sending a second
alert from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 in
response to receiving, by the chime 302, a communication from the
remote sensor 418.
[0242] Several embodiments comprise detecting, by a microphone 484b
(shown in FIG. 31) of the chime 302, an alarm sound emitted by a
remote sensor 418, and then sending a second alert from the chime
302 to the remote computing device 204 in response to detecting the
alarm sound. Some embodiments include detecting, by a microphone
484b of the chime 302, an alarm sound emitted by a remote smoke
detector (e.g., 418), and then sending a second alert from the
chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 in response to
detecting the alarm sound. Several embodiments include detecting,
by a microphone 484b of the chime 302, an alarm sound emitted by a
remote motion sensor device (e.g., 418), and then sending a second
alert from the chime 302 to the remote computing device 204 in
response to detecting the alarm sound.
[0243] Burglars often break glass windows and glass doors to enter
homes and other buildings. Some embodiments include detecting, by a
microphone 484b of the chime 302, glass breaking, and then sending
a second alert from the chime 302 to the remote computing device
204 in response to detecting the glass breaking.
[0244] Some systems include a remote sensor 418 having at least one
of a fire detector, a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector, a
motion detector, and a glass-break detector. The remote sensor 418
can be communicatively coupled to the chime 302 (e.g., via wireless
communication 230). Systems can include a third communication from
the remote sensor 418 to the chime 302.
[0245] Several systems include a chime 302 that has a microphone
484b (shown in FIG. 31). Systems can also include a remote sensor
418, an alarm sound 236 emitted by the remote sensor 418, and a
third communication sent from the chime 302 to the remote computing
device 204 in response to the microphone 484b of the chime 302
detecting the alarm sound 236.
[0246] FIG. 36 illustrates a doorbell system configured to be
coupled to a building 300 having a wireless network 308. The
doorbell system can include a doorbell 202 having a button 212
configured to be pressed by a visitor to notify occupants of the
building 300. The doorbell 202 can comprises a first wireless
communication system 503 and a second wireless communication system
507 (as shown in FIG. 44). The first wireless communication system
503 can consume less energy per unit of operating time than the
second wireless communication system 507.
[0247] The doorbell system also includes a remote communication
device (e.g., the chime 302) coupled to a power outlet 309 (as
shown in FIG. 33) of the building 300 and located remotely relative
to the doorbell 202. The remote communication device 302 comprises
a speaker 488b configured to emit a sound in response to the
visitor pressing the button 212. The remote communication device
302 comprises a third wireless communication system 509 and a
fourth wireless communication system 511 (as shown in FIG. 44). The
third wireless communication system 509 can consume less energy per
unit of operating time than the fourth wireless communication
system 511.
[0248] In some embodiments, the second 507 and fourth 511 wireless
communication systems can be Wi-Fi systems. The first 503 and third
509 wireless communication systems can be Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low
Energy, Thread, ZigBee, and or any other suitable system. An
advantage of some embodiments is that more power-hungry
communication systems are used less often than more energy
efficient systems. This can be especially helpful when the doorbell
202 runs on battery power.
[0249] As shown in FIG. 44, the remote communication system 302 is
communicatively coupled with the wireless network 308 via the
fourth wireless communication system 511, and is communicatively
coupled with the first wireless communication system 503 of the
doorbell 202 via the third wireless communication system 509. The
doorbell 202 is communicatively coupled with the wireless network
308 via the second wireless communication system 507 in response to
receiving a communication from the remote communication device 302
via the first wireless communication system 503.
[0250] FIG. 45 illustrates how a remote computing device 204 can
send a communication to a wireless network 308 of a building, which
can then send a wireless communication to the fourth wireless
communication system 511. The remote communication device 302 can
then use its third wireless communication system 509 to send a
communication to the first wireless communication system 503 of the
doorbell. The doorbell 202 can then use its second wireless
communication system 507 to send a communication to the wireless
network 308 and/or to the remote computing device 204.
[0251] The communication can be a doorbell setting parameter that a
user "sets" by selecting an option on an "app" run by the remote
computing device 204. The doorbell 202 can update a doorbell
setting (e.g., power management settings, camera settings,
notification preferences, doorbell light settings) in response to
receiving the doorbell setting parameter.
[0252] In some embodiments, the doorbell 202 "wakes up" in response
to receiving a communication from the remote communication device
302. The remote communication device 302 can send the doorbell 202
a wake up command in response to receiving a wake up command from
the remote computing device 204. The doorbell 202 can "wake up" by
turning on the camera, starting to record a video, and/or beginning
wireless communication with the wireless network 308.
[0253] FIG. 46 illustrates a front view of another doorbell 202m.
This doorbell 202m includes a battery 462. The battery 462 can
provide electrical power such that the doorbell 202m does not need
to be connected to a building's electrical system to receive
electricity. This doorbell 202m can include any of the items
described in the context of other doorbells 202 illustrated herein
or incorporated by reference.
Transceiver Embodiments
[0254] A transceiver is a device that can both transmit and receive
data. These devices are used to send or receive a variety of
wireless signals, or transmissions, over radio waves. Some examples
of technologies that use wireless signals include AM or FM radio,
cellular phones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth devices, satellite signals, and
two-way radios. In some embodiments, transceivers can be used in
doorbell systems to send and receive wireless communications to
and/or from a user. This can allow a user to view and/or
communicate with a visitor who is approaching a doorbell system at
a location, such as their home or business. The user can then
communicate with a visitor through a remote computing device, even
though the user may be at a different location than the visitor.
Remote computing devices can include smartphones, tablets,
computers, or other devices that can connect to a wireless network,
such as the internet and cellular networks.
[0255] Referring to FIG. 29, in some embodiments, a doorbell system
200 can include a doorbell 202 that can comprise a doorbell housing
560, a visitor detection system 528, a first low-energy transceiver
550, and a first high-energy transceiver 552. The visitor detection
system 528 can be coupled to the doorbell housing 560 and can
include at least one of a camera 208 and a motion detector 218.
Both the first low-energy transceiver 550 and the first high-energy
transceiver 552 can be coupled to the doorbell housing 560 and be
configurable to transmit data 213, as shown in FIG. 47.
[0256] In several embodiments, the doorbell system 200 can comprise
a doorbell 202 and a chime 302. Referring to FIG. 31, The chime 302
can comprise a chime housing 558, a second low-energy transceiver
554, and a second high-energy transceiver 556. The second
low-energy transceiver 554 and the second high-energy transceiver
556 can be coupled to the chime housing 558 and can be configured
to transmit data 213 to the first low-energy transceiver 550 and
the first high-energy transceiver 552, as illustrated in FIG.
47.
[0257] As illustrated in FIG. 47, the doorbell system 201 can
comprise a doorbell 202, a chime 302, and a Wi-Fi communication hub
330. The Wi-Fi communication hub 330 can be coupled to at least one
of the doorbell 202 and the chime 302. In some embodiments the
Wi-Fi communication hub 330 can comprise a Wi-Fi router 328.
[0258] In several embodiments of the doorbell system 200, the first
low-energy transceiver 550 can comprise a first Bluetooth
low-energy transceiver 550a, as illustrated in FIG. 31. The second
low-energy transceiver 554 can comprise a second Bluetooth
low-energy transceiver 554a. The first high-energy transceiver 552
can comprises a first Wi-Fi transceiver and the second high-energy
transceiver 556 can comprises a second Wi-Fi transceiver 556a.
[0259] In some embodiments, a battery 462 located within the
doorbell housing 560 can power the doorbell 202, as shown in FIG.
29. In several embodiments with a battery 462, it may be beneficial
to conserve power. This can ensure that the battery 462 is not
drained and the doorbell 202 can operate for an extended period of
time. In these embodiments, Bluetooth low energy, or BLE,
transceivers can lend themselves well to energy preservation and
may allow a longer operation period before it is necessary to
recharge the battery. Operations that require low-energy can use
BLE transceivers to complete tasks, while doorbell functions that
may require a high-energy can utilize Wi-Fi signals. For example,
if a user would like to upload a new chime sound or change the LED
color on the doorbell, the doorbell system can assign BLE
transceivers to complete these tasks. For functions that require
high-energy, such as streaming video from the doorbell camera to a
computing device, a high-energy Wi-Fi transceiver can be
employed.
[0260] Referring to FIG. 47, in several embodiments, the doorbell
system 200 can further comprise a remote computing device 204. This
remote computing device 204 can be communicatively coupled to at
least one of the doorbell 202, the chime 302, and the Wi-Fi
communication hub 330.
[0261] In some embodiments, at least one of the first low-energy
transceiver 550 and the second low-energy transceiver 554 can be
configured to activate in response to a first request 211a from the
remote computing device 204. The first high-energy transceiver 552
and the second high-energy transceiver 556 can be configured to
activate in response to a second request 211b from the remote
computing device 204. The different doorbell system 201 functions
can be assigned to different doorbell 202 tasks. For example,
doorbell 202 functions that require a high-energy signal can be
assigned to a Wi-Fi transceiver, while tasks requiring or a
low-energy signal would use a BLE transceiver.
[0262] In some embodiments, the first high-energy transceiver 552
and the second high-energy transceiver 556 can be configured to
activate in response to a second event 424b detected by the visitor
detection system 528. For example, the high-energy Wi-Fi
transceivers can activate in response to a motion at the door. On
the other hand, in some embodiments where the doorbell 202 can
comprise an illuminated light source, at least one of the first
low-energy transceiver 550 and the second low-energy transceiver
554 can be configured to activate in response to a request 211 from
the remote computing device 204 to change a color of the light. For
example, a low-energy BLE transceiver may activate if the user
requests a color change of the doorbell light.
[0263] In several embodiments, at least one of the first
high-energy transceiver 552 and the second high-energy transceiver
556 can be configured to activate in response to the doorbell 202
detecting a presence of a visitor 580 (shown in FIG. 7). In this
case, a Wi-Fi transceiver can activate to complete the doorbell 202
function.
[0264] Referring to FIG. 29, in some embodiments, a doorbell system
200 can comprise a doorbell 202 having a visitor detection system
528. This doorbell detection system 528 can comprise of at least
one of a camera 208, motion detector 218 (shown in FIG. 3), or
microphone 484. In several embodiments with a first low-energy
transceiver 550 and a first high-energy transceiver 552, the
doorbell system 200 can comprise a chime 302 that can be
communicatively coupled to the doorbell 202. As illustrated in FIG.
31, the chime 301 can have a second low-energy transceiver 554 and
a second high-energy transceiver 556. FIG. 47 illustrates a method
for activating the transceivers that can comprise activating at
least one of the first low-energy transceiver 550 and the second
low-energy transceiver 554 in response to a first event 424a. Then,
in response to a second event 424b, at least one of the first
high-energy transceiver 552 and the second high-energy transceiver
556 can be activated. In other words, different events 424 can
activate different transceivers. Events 424 may include a variety
of wireless communications or alarms. These wireless communications
can include, but are not limited to, the detection of a visitor
580, communication with a visitor 580, and requests 211 made by the
user 336 to the doorbell system 200 from a remote computing device
204. Events 424 may also include requests 211 to change the chime
sound and doorbell button light color, or alarms, such as fire or
security alarms.
[0265] In several embodiments, the doorbell system 200 can further
comprise a remote computing device 204 such as a computer or
smartphone. The remote computing device 204 can be communicatively
coupled to at least one of the doorbell 202 and the chime 302. The
first event 424a can comprise a first request 211a from the remote
computing device 204, and the second event 424b can comprise a
second request 211b from the remote computing device 204.
[0266] FIG. 47 illustrates a methods of wireless communications in
response to events for several embodiments of doorbell systems. In
some embodiments, the activation of the first low-energy
transceiver 550 and the second low-energy transceiver 554, in
response to the first event 424a, can deactivate the first
high-energy transceiver 552 and the second high-energy transceiver
556. The high-energy transceiver can be deactivated when at least
one of the low-energy transceivers is activated.
[0267] In several embodiments, the low-energy transceivers can be
deactivated when at least one of the high-energy transceivers is
activated. The method of using the doorbell 202 can entail
activating both the first high-energy transceiver 552 and the
second high-energy transceiver 556 in response to the second event
424a. The first low-energy transceiver 550 and the second
low-energy transceiver 554 can be deactivated in response to
activating both the first high-energy transceiver 552 and the
second high-energy transceiver 556.
[0268] Referring to FIG. 47, in some embodiments, the method of
using a doorbell system 200 can comprise a doorbell 202 having a
visitor detection system 528, a first low-energy transceiver 550,
and a first high-energy transceiver 552. The doorbell system 200
can comprise a chime 302 communicatively coupled to the doorbell
202. The chime 302 can have a second low-energy transceiver 554 and
a second high-energy transceiver 556. The method for using the
doorbell system 200 can comprise activating the first low-energy
transceiver 550, activating the second low-energy transceiver 554,
and transmitting data 213 between the first low-energy transceiver
550 and the second low-energy transceiver 554. This method can
thereby enable communication between the doorbell 202 and the chime
302.
[0269] In several embodiments, the method for operating the
doorbell 202 can further comprise deactivating the first
high-energy transceiver 552 in response to activating the first
low-energy transceiver 550, and deactivating the second high-energy
transceiver 556 in response to activating the second low-energy
transceiver 554. In other words, high-energy transceivers can be
deactivated in response to activating the low-energy
transceivers.
[0270] In some embodiments, the method for operating the doorbell
system 200 can further comprise activating the first low-energy
transceiver 550 in response to the doorbell 202 either the sending
or receiving a transmission 231 that is less than a predetermined
transmission threshold, or both. The second low-energy transceiver
554 can be activated in response to the chime 302 performing at
least one of sending the first transmission 233 that is less than
the predetermined transmission threshold and receiving the second
transmission 234 that is less than the predetermined transmission
threshold.
[0271] Referring to FIG. 47, in some embodiments the doorbell
system 200 can comprise a doorbell 202. The doorbell 202 can have a
camera 208, a motion detector 218, a first low-energy transceiver
550, and a first high-energy transceiver 552. The doorbell system
200 can comprise a chime 302 communicatively coupled to the
doorbell 202. The chime 302 can have a second low-energy
transceiver 554 and a second high-energy transceiver 556. As
illustrated in FIG. 47, the method for operating a doorbell system
202 can comprise activating the first high-energy transceiver 552,
activating the second high-energy transceiver 556, and transmitting
data 213 between the first high-energy transceiver 552 and the
second high-energy transceiver 556. This transmission of data 213
can thereby enable communication between the doorbell 202 and the
chime 302.
[0272] In several embodiments, operating the doorbell system 200
can include deactivating the first low-energy transceiver 550 in
response to activating the first high-energy transceiver 552 and
deactivating the second low-energy transceiver 554 in response to
activating the second high-energy transceiver 556. Low energy
transceivers can be deactivated when high energy transceivers are
activated.
[0273] In some embodiments, operating the doorbell system 200 can
consist of activating the first high-energy transceiver 552 when
the doorbell 202 either sends or receives a transmission 231 that
is greater than a predetermined transmission threshold and
activates the second high-energy transceiver 556 in response to the
chime 302 either sending or receiving the first transmission 233
that is greater than the predetermined transmission threshold.
Interpretation
[0274] None of the steps described herein is essential or
indispensable. Any of the steps can be adjusted or modified. Other
or additional steps can be used. Any portion of any of the steps,
processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated in
one embodiment, flowchart, or example in this specification can be
combined or used with or instead of any other portion of any of the
steps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or
illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart, or example. The
embodiments and examples provided herein are not intended to be
discrete and separate from each other.
[0275] The section headings and subheadings provided herein are
nonlimiting. The section headings and subheadings do not represent
or limit the full scope of the embodiments described in the
sections to which the headings and subheadings pertain. For
example, a section titled "Topic 1" may include embodiments that do
not pertain to Topic 1 and embodiments described in other sections
may apply to and be combined with embodiments described within the
"Topic 1" section.
[0276] Some of the devices, systems, embodiments, and processes use
computers. Each of the routines, processes, methods, and algorithms
described in the preceding sections may be embodied in, and fully
or partially automated by, code modules executed by one or more
computers, computer processors, or machines configured to execute
computer instructions. The code modules may be stored on any type
of non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or tangible
computer storage device, such as hard drives, solid state memory,
flash memory, optical disc, and/or the like. The processes and
algorithms may be implemented partially or wholly in
application-specific circuitry. The results of the disclosed
processes and process steps may be stored, persistently or
otherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage such as,
e.g., volatile or non-volatile storage.
[0277] The various features and processes described above may be
used independently of one another, or may be combined in various
ways. All possible combinations and subcombinations are intended to
fall within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain
method, event, state, or process blocks may be omitted in some
implementations. The methods, steps, and processes described herein
are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks,
steps, or states relating thereto can be performed in other
sequences that are appropriate. For example, described tasks or
events may be performed in an order other than the order
specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a single
block or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in
serial, in parallel, or in some other manner. Tasks or events may
be added to or removed from the disclosed example embodiments. The
example systems and components described herein may be configured
differently than described. For example, elements may be added to,
removed from, or rearranged compared to the disclosed example
embodiments.
[0278] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others,
"can," "could," "might," "may," "e.g.," and the like, unless
specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the
context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain
embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include,
certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional
language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements
and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or
that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for
deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these
features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed
in any particular embodiment. The terms "comprising," "including,"
"having," and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in
an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements,
features, acts, operations and so forth. Also, the term "or" is
used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so
that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the
term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.
Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and
Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood
with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term,
etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is
not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at
least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be
present.
[0279] The term "and/or" means that "and" applies to some
embodiments and "or" applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B,
and/or C can be replaced with A, B, and C written in one sentence
and A, B, or C written in another sentence. A, B, and/or C means
that some embodiments can include A and B, some embodiments can
include A and C, some embodiments can include B and C, some
embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can include only
B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments
include A, B, and C. The term "and/or" is used to avoid unnecessary
redundancy.
[0280] While certain example embodiments have been described, these
embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not
intended to limit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein.
Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply
that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block
is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and
systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other
forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes
in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made
without departing from the spirit of the inventions disclosed
herein.
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