U.S. patent application number 16/054961 was filed with the patent office on 2018-11-29 for doorbell communication systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is SkyBell Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Seton Paul Kasmir, Desiree Mejia, Joseph Frank Scalisi, Andrew Paul Thomas.
Application Number | 20180343141 16/054961 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64401882 |
Filed Date | 2018-11-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180343141 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Scalisi; Joseph Frank ; et
al. |
November 29, 2018 |
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
Doorbell systems can include a doorbell and a remote
communication device. In some embodiments, the remote communication
device can be communicatively coupled to a wireless network of a
building, to the doorbell, and to a remote computing device. In
several embodiments, the remote communication device facilitates
communication with at least one of the doorbell, the remote
computing device, and a remote sensor.
Inventors: |
Scalisi; Joseph Frank;
(Yorba Linda, CA) ; Kasmir; Seton Paul; (San
Diego, CA) ; Thomas; Andrew Paul; (Newport Beach,
CA) ; Mejia; Desiree; (Yorba Linda, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SkyBell Technologies, Inc. |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
64401882 |
Appl. No.: |
16/054961 |
Filed: |
August 3, 2018 |
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10044519 |
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16054961 |
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15815555 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 12/2818 20130101;
H04L 2012/2841 20130101; H04N 7/186 20130101; H04M 11/025 20130101;
H04L 2012/2849 20130101; H04L 12/2803 20130101; G08B 19/00
20130101; G08B 15/00 20130101; G08B 7/06 20130101; G08B 3/10
20130101; G08B 25/009 20130101; H04L 12/2823 20130101; G08B 7/064
20130101; H04L 12/2825 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04L 12/28 20060101
H04L012/28; G08B 7/06 20060101 G08B007/06; H04M 11/02 20060101
H04M011/02; H04N 7/18 20060101 H04N007/18; G08B 3/10 20060101
G08B003/10 |
Claims
1. A method of using a doorbell system comprising a doorbell and a
remote communication device, wherein the doorbell system is
configured to be coupled to a building, the method comprising:
coupling communicatively the remote communication device to a
wireless network of the building, to the doorbell, and to a remote
computing device; and detecting, by the doorbell, a trigger of a
button of the doorbell.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising electrically coupling
the remote communication device to a power outlet of the
building.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising mechanically coupling
the remote communication device to a power outlet of the building
such that the remote communication device is held by the power
outlet.
4. The method of claim 3, further comprising coupling the doorbell
to an exterior of the building and coupling the remote
communication device to an interior of the building.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving a first
communication, by the remote communication device, from the
wireless network, and then in response to receiving the first
communication, sending a second communication from the remote
communication device to the doorbell, and then in response to the
doorbell receiving the second communication, entering, by the
doorbell, a higher power state.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein entering the higher power state
comprises taking, by the doorbell, a video.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein entering the higher power state
comprises sending, by the doorbell, a third communication from the
doorbell to the wireless network of the building.
8. The method of claim 5, wherein entering the higher power state
comprises sending, by the doorbell, a third communication from the
doorbell to the remote computing device.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicatively
coupling the remote communication device to the doorbell via a
first wireless communication system, and communicatively coupling
the doorbell to the wireless network of the building via a second
wireless communication system that consumes more energy per unit of
operating time than the first wireless communication system.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising activating the second
wireless communication system, by the doorbell, in response to the
doorbell receiving a first communication from the remote
communication device.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising sending, by the
remote communication device, the first communication to the
doorbell in response to receiving, by the remote communication
device, a second communication from the remote computing
device.
12. The method of claim 1, further comprising entering, by the
remote computing device, a doorbell setting parameter, receiving,
by the remote communication device, the doorbell setting parameter,
sending the doorbell setting parameter from the remote
communication device to the doorbell, and then updating a doorbell
setting in response to the doorbell receiving the doorbell setting
parameter.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising sending a video from
the doorbell to the remote communication device, and then sending
the video from the remote communication device to the remote
computing device such that the remote communication device
communicatively couples the doorbell to the remote computing
device.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising sending the video
from the doorbell to the remote communication device while the
doorbell is located outside of the building and while the remote
communication device is located inside of the building.
15. The method of claim 1, wherein the remote communication device
comprises a speaker, the method further comprising emitting a
notification sound from the speaker in response to the doorbell
detecting the trigger of the button.
16. The method of claim 1, further comprising sending a visitor
alert from the remote communication device to the remote computing
device via the wireless network of the building.
17. The method of claim 1, further comprising electrically coupling
the doorbell to an Ethernet cable such that the Ethernet cable
electrically powers the doorbell.
18. A doorbell system configured to be coupled to a building having
a wireless network, the doorbell system comprising: a doorbell
having a button configured to be pressed by a visitor to notify
occupants of the building, wherein the doorbell comprises a first
wireless communication system and a second wireless communication
system, wherein the first wireless communication system consumes
less energy per unit of operating time than the second wireless
communication system; and a remote communication device coupled to
a power outlet of the building and located remotely relative to the
doorbell, wherein the remote communication device comprises a
speaker configured to emit a sound in response to the visitor
pressing the button, wherein the remote communication device
comprises a third wireless communication system and a fourth
wireless communication system, wherein the third wireless
communication system consumes less energy per unit of operating
time than the fourth wireless communication system.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the remote communication device
is communicatively coupled with the wireless network via the fourth
wireless communication system, and is communicatively coupled with
the first wireless communication system of the doorbell via the
third wireless communication system.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the doorbell is communicatively
coupled with the wireless network via the second wireless
communication system in response to receiving a communication from
the remote communication device via the first wireless
communication system.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/589,830; filed Jan. 5, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0002] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/748,054; filed Jun. 23, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNITIES.
[0003] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/139,497; filed Mar. 27, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0004] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/221,489; filed Sep. 21, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0005] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/813,479; filed Jul. 30, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0006] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/737,411; filed Jun. 11, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL CHIME SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0007] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/728,975; filed Jun. 2, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL BATTERY SYSTEMS.
[0008] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/714,577; filed May 18, 2015; and entitled
MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0009] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/671,677; filed Mar. 27, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL DIAGNOSTICS.
[0010] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/740,199; filed Jun. 15, 2015; and entitled
IDENTITY VERIFICATION USING A SOCIAL NETWORK.
[0011] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/743,849; filed Jun. 18, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0012] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: U.S. Nonprovisional patent
application Ser. No. 14/726,517; filed May 30, 2015; and entitled
DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0013] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International Application No.
PCT/US14/53506; filed Aug. 29, 2014 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0014] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International Application No.
PCT/US14/47622; filed Jul. 22, 2014 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0015] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 14/861,613; filed Sep. 22, 2015 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0016] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/060,282; filed Mar. 3, 2016 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled LIGHT SOCKET SURVEILLANCE
SYSTEMS.
[0017] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/608,825; filed May 30, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled SMART LOCK SYSTEMS AND METHODS.
[0018] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/806,322; filed Nov. 7, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0019] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/205,959; filed Jul. 8, 2016 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0020] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/701,451; filed Sep. 12, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0021] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/701,453; filed Sep. 12, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0022] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/990,601; filed May 26, 2018 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS.
[0023] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/719,543; filed Sep. 28, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0024] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/951,534; filed Apr. 12, 2018 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNITIES.
[0025] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/793,720; filed Oct. 25, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNITIES.
[0026] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/293,334; filed Oct. 14, 2016 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled GARAGE DOOR COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
AND METHODS.
[0027] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/785,605; filed Oct. 17, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL PACKAGE DETECTION SYSTEMS
AND METHODS.
[0028] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/815,555; filed Nov. 16, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL PACKAGE DETECTION SYSTEMS
AND METHODS.
[0029] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/214,451; filed Jul. 20, 2016 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
[0030] The entire contents of the following application are
incorporated by reference herein: International application Ser.
No. 15/811,829; filed Nov. 14, 2017 with the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND
METHODS.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0031] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to doorbells.
Certain embodiments relate to communication between a person near a
doorbell and a person in another location.
Description of Related Art
[0032] 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.
[0033] 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
[0034] This disclosure includes a method of using a doorbell system
to emit a sound from a chime. Methods can comprise selecting the
sound by a remote computing device; sending a data file comprising
information to a doorbell that is communicatively coupled to the
remote computing device, wherein the information represents the
sound; and sending the data file, by the doorbell, to the chime
that is communicatively coupled to the doorbell and remotely
located with respect to the doorbell.
[0035] Methods can include downloading, by at least one of the
doorbell and the chime, the data file from a web server. The method
can further include downloading, by the remote computing device,
the data file from a web server.
[0036] As well, methods can comprise emitting the sound from a
speaker of the chime at least partially in response to the chime
receiving the data file and at least partially in response to the
doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of a visitor. Even
still, methods can include receiving, by the doorbell, a sound
emission parameter from the remote computing device; and emitting
the sound from a speaker of the chime in response to the doorbell
system determining that the sound emission parameter has been
met.
[0037] Methods can include emitting an audible message from a
speaker of the chime, wherein the audible message is spoken by a
user and recorded by the doorbell. As well, methods can include
emitting an audible message from a speaker of the chime, wherein
the audible message is spoken by a user and recorded by the remote
computing device. In embodiments, the chime can be located along an
inside portion of a building. Accordingly, methods can include
detecting a first motion, by a motion detector of the chime, within
the inside portion of the building; and initiating a first
communication session with the remote computing device in response
to the chime detecting the first motion, wherein the first
communication session comprises a first notification of the first
motion detected by the motion detector of the chime. In
embodiments, the remote computing device is a first remote
computing device. Methods can further include detecting a second
motion, by the motion detector of the chime, within an inside
portion of the building, wherein the second motion is different
from the first motion; and initiating a second communication
session with a second remote computing device in response to the
motion detector of the chime detecting the second motion, wherein
the second communication session comprises a second notification of
the second motion detected by the chime, and wherein the first
remote computing device does not receive the second communication
session.
[0038] As well, methods can include selecting a second sound by the
remote computing device; sending a second data file comprising
second information to the doorbell, wherein the second information
represents the second sound; and sending the second data file to
the chime. The chime can be located along an inside portion of a
building and the doorbell can be located along an outside portion
of the building. Accordingly, methods can further include detecting
a first motion, by a motion detector of the doorbell, along the
outside portion of the building; emitting the first sound from a
speaker of the chime in response to the doorbell detecting the
first motion; detecting a second motion, by the motion detector of
the doorbell, along the outside portion of the building, wherein
the second motion is different from the first motion; and emitting
the second sound from the speaker of the chime in response to the
doorbell detecting the second motion.
[0039] The disclosure also includes a method of using a doorbell
system to emit a sound from a chime. Methods can include selecting
the sound by a remote computing device; sending a data file
comprising information to the chime that is communicatively coupled
to the remote computing device, wherein the chime is located within
an inside portion of a building, and wherein the information
represents the sound; detecting an indication of a presence of a
visitor with a doorbell that is communicatively coupled to the
chime, wherein the doorbell is located along an outside portion of
the building, and wherein the doorbell comprises a button
configurable to detect a button press to indicate the presence of
the visitor; and emitting the sound from a speaker of the chime in
response to detecting the indication of the presence of the
visitor.
[0040] As well, methods can include detecting a motion, by a motion
detector of the chime, within the inside portion of the building;
capturing an image, by a camera of the chime, within the inside
portion of the building; and sending the image to the remote
computing device. Even still, methods can include detecting a
motion, by a motion detector of the chime, within the inside
portion of the building; and flashing a light of the doorbell in
response to the chime detecting the motion within the inside
portion of the building.
[0041] Methods can also include recording a noise, by a microphone
of the chime, within the inside portion of the building; and
emitting the noise from a speaker of the remote computing device.
As well, methods can include detecting a motion, by a motion
detector of the chime, within the inside portion of the building;
and initiating a communication session with the remote computing
device in response to the motion detector of the chime detecting
the motion, wherein the communication session comprises a
notification of the motion detected by motion detector of the
chime.
[0042] Even still, methods can include sending the data file
comprising the information to the doorbell; and detecting a motion,
by a motion detector of the chime, within the inside portion of the
building. Methods can also include emitting the sound from a
speaker of the doorbell in response to the chime detecting the
motion within the inside portion of the building.
[0043] The disclosure also includes a doorbell system, comprising:
a doorbell comprising a button configurable to detect a button
press to indicate a presence of a visitor; a chime communicatively
coupled to the doorbell; a remote computing device communicatively
coupled to at least one of the doorbell and the chime; and a sound
emitted by a speaker of the chime in response to the doorbell
detecting an indication of a presence of a visitor. Embodiments of
the chime can comprise a motion detector configurable to detect
motion along an inside portion of a building; a camera assembly
configurable to capture an image along the inside portion of the
building; the speaker configurable to emit the first sound; and a
microphone configurable to receive an audible message spoken by a
user along the inside portion of the building.
[0044] Embodiments of the chime can comprise a thermometer
configurable to determine temperature along the inside portion of
the building; and a humidity sensor configurable to determine
humidity along the inside portion of the building. As well,
embodiments can include a communication system configurable to
communicatively couple the chime to the doorbell.
[0045] The sound can be a first sound. The doorbell system can
further include a second sound emitted by the speaker of the chime
in response to the motion detector detecting the motion along the
inside portion of the building. As well, embodiments of the
doorbell system can include a third sound emitted by the speaker of
the chime in response to the thermometer detecting that a
predetermined temperature has been met; and a fourth sound emitted
by the speaker of the chime in response to the humidity sensor
detecting that a predetermined humidity has been met.
[0046] The disclosure can include a method of using a doorbell
system to emit a first sound from a chime. Methods can include
recognizing, by a doorbell, a first visitor; emitting the first
sound from the chime in response to recognizing the first visitor;
and emitting a second sound from the chime in response to not
recognizing, by the doorbell, a second visitor, wherein the first
sound and the second sound are different.
[0047] Methods can include selecting, by the remote computing
device, the first sound and the second sound; and sending the first
sound and the second sound to the chime. As well, methods can
include selecting, by the remote computing device, the first sound
and the second sound; and sending the first sound and the second
sound to the doorbell, and then sending the first sound and the
second sound from the doorbell to the chime.
[0048] Even still, methods can include sending the first sound and
the second sound from the doorbell to the chime via wireless
communication. Methods can also include sending the first sound and
the second sound from the doorbell to the chime via an electrical
wire that electrically couples the doorbell and the chime while the
doorbell is located outside a building and the chime is located
inside the building.
[0049] As well, methods can include recognizing the first visitor
by the doorbell detecting a physical trait of the first visitor.
Methods can also include recognizing the first visitor by the
doorbell detecting a trait of an electronic device in the
possession of the first visitor.
[0050] This disclosure includes a doorbell system configured to be
electrically coupled to a doorbell power supply of a building. The
doorbell system can comprise a doorbell comprising a button
configurable to sound a chime, wherein a first wire electrically
couples the doorbell to the power supply; the chime electrically
coupled to the doorbell by a second wire; and a third wire that
electrically couples the chime to the power supply to form a
circuit comprising the first wire, the doorbell, the second wire,
the chime, the third wire, and the power supply.
[0051] The doorbell can be communicatively coupled to the chime via
the second wire such that the chime is configured to receive a
first data file from the doorbell via the second wire. Doorbell
systems can further include a sound file communication sent from
the doorbell to the chime via the second wire. In embodiments, the
sound file communication can comprise at least one thousand
bytes.
[0052] In embodiments, the first data file comprises a command
configured to place the chime in silent mode. In some embodiments,
the first data file comprises a command configured to adjust a
volume setting of the chime. As well, in some embodiments, the
first data file comprises a command configured to adjust a duration
of a notification sound emitted by the chime. Furthermore, in some
embodiments, the first data file comprises a video recorded by the
doorbell. Even still, in embodiments, the first data file comprises
a video recorded by the chime. In embodiments, the first data file
comprises information regarding an event that occurred outside of
the chime. Accordingly, in embodiments, the first data file
comprises information regarding a person detected by the chime.
[0053] As well, in embodiments, the doorbell is located outside of
the building and the chime is located inside of the building. Even
still, in embodiments, the doorbell is communicatively coupled to
the chime via the second wire such that the doorbell is configured
to receive a first data file from the chime via the second
wire.
[0054] Even still, in embodiments, the doorbell system can include
a remote computing device communicatively coupled with the doorbell
via a wireless communication, wherein the wireless communication
comprises a first information regarding a notification sound; a
wired communication sent from the doorbell to the chime via the
second wire, wherein the wired communication comprises a second
information regarding the notification sound; and the notification
sound emitted from a speaker of the chime. Yet, in embodiments, the
doorbell can include a first camera, a first speaker, and a first
microphone. The chime can comprise a second camera, a second
speaker, and a second microphone.
[0055] The disclosure also includes a method of using a doorbell
system configured to be electrically coupled to a doorbell power
supply of a building. Methods can include coupling a doorbell to a
remote chime via a first wire; receiving, by the doorbell, a first
data file comprising information; and sending a second data file
comprising the information from the doorbell to the remote chime
via the first wire.
[0056] The information can represent a sound that was unknown to
the chime prior to receiving the second data file. Methods can
further include emitting the sound from the chime at least
partially in response to receiving the second data file.
[0057] As well, methods can include emitting the sound from the
chime at least partially in response to the chime receiving a sound
emission parameter from the doorbell. Methods can also include the
doorbell receiving a sound emission parameter from a remote
computing device; and emitting the sound from the chime in response
to the doorbell system determining that the sound emission
parameter has been met.
[0058] Even still, methods can include the doorbell receiving the
first data file from a remote computing device. Furthermore,
methods can include the doorbell receiving a video recorded by the
chime via the first wire. As well, methods can include the chime
receiving a video recorded by the doorbell via the first wire. The
second data file can comprise at least one thousand bytes. Methods
can include the chime using the second data file to emit a
sound.
[0059] This disclosure includes a method for emitting a custom
message with a doorbell system, wherein the doorbell system
comprises a doorbell having a speaker. The may method comprise:
receiving a custom message with the doorbell system; and detecting,
by the doorbell, an indication of a presence of a visitor, and then
in response to detecting the indication of the presence of the
visitor, emitting the custom message with the speaker.
[0060] The visitor may be a predetermined visitor and the method
may further comprise assigning, by the doorbell system, the custom
message to the predetermined visitor.
[0061] Methods may include determining, by the doorbell system,
that the visitor is a predetermined visitor type, and selecting the
custom message from a first message and a second message in
response to determining that the visitor is the predetermined
visitor type. As well, methods may include downloading the custom
message from a smart phone that is communicatively coupled to the
doorbell system.
[0062] The doorbell system may further comprise a remote computing
device, and methods may further comprise recording the custom
message with the remote computing device.
[0063] The doorbell may further comprise a microphone and a button,
and methods may further comprise receiving an indication of a
button press of the button, and then in response to receiving the
button press, recording the custom message with the microphone.
[0064] The doorbell system may be operated by a homeowner and the
visitor may be included on a contact list of the homeowner, and
wherein the custom message may comprise a name of the visitor.
[0065] The doorbell may comprise a microphone, and wherein the
custom message may comprise a question. Methods may further
comprise receiving, by the microphone, an audible response to the
question as spoken by the visitor.
[0066] Methods may further comprise determining, by the doorbell
system, whether the audible response spoken by the visitor
comprises a first meaning or a second meaning that is different
from the first meaning; in response to determining that the audible
response spoken by the visitor comprises the first meaning,
emitting a first response message with the speaker; and in response
to determining that the audible response spoken by the visitor
comprises the second meaning, emitting a second response message
with the speaker, wherein the second response message is different
from the first response message.
[0067] The visitor may comprise a criminal, and the custom message
may comprise a warning message. Methods may further comprise
initiating, by the doorbell system, a communication session with a
law enforcement agency.
[0068] Methods may include initiating, by the doorbell system, a
communication session with a remote computing device of the
visitor, wherein the communication session comprises a written
message that substantially matches a content of the custom
message.
[0069] The disclosure also includes a method for emitting a custom
message with a doorbell system, wherein the doorbell system
comprises a doorbell having a speaker. The method may comprise
detecting, by the doorbell, an indication of a presence of a
visitor; and determining, by the doorbell system, an occurrence of
a predetermined condition and then in response to detecting the
indication of the presence of the visitor and determining the
occurrence of the predetermined condition, emitting the custom
message with the speaker. Methods may also include recording the
custom message with the doorbell system.
[0070] The custom message may be a first custom message, and the
doorbell may be attached to a building that is occupied by a
resident. As well, determining, by the doorbell system, the
occurrence of the predetermined condition may comprise determining
whether the resident is located within the building or whether the
resident is not located within the building. Methods may further
comprise recording a second custom message with the doorbell
system, wherein the second custom message is different from the
first custom message; in response to both detecting the indication
of the presence of the visitor and determining the resident is
present within the building, emitting the first custom message with
the speaker; and in response to both detecting the indication of
the presence of the visitor and determining the resident is not
present within the building, emitting the second custom message
with the speaker.
[0071] The doorbell system may further comprise a remote computing
device. Methods may further include recording the custom message
with the remote computing device. The doorbell may comprise a
microphone, and methods may further comprise recording the custom
message with the microphone.
[0072] The doorbell may further comprise a button. As well, methods
may further comprise receiving an indication of a first button
press of the button, and then in response to receiving the first
button press, recording the custom message with the doorbell system
and thereby storing the custom message within memory of the
doorbell system; and receiving an indication of a second button
press of the button, and then in response to receiving the second
button press, erasing the custom message from the memory of the
doorbell system.
[0073] The predetermined condition may comprise at least one of a
predetermined timeframe and a predetermined time of day. The
doorbell may be attached to a building occupied by a resident. The
predetermined timeframe may comprise a time during which the
resident is hosting a party within the building. As well, the
custom message may comprise a welcome message to the party.
[0074] The custom message can be a second custom message, and the
doorbell can comprise a microphone. Methods can further comprise
recording a first custom message with the microphone, wherein the
first custom message can be spoken by a first voice, wherein the
second custom message emitted by the speaker can be spoken by a
second voice, and wherein a content of the first custom message
substantially matches a content of the second custom message.
[0075] Methods can further include taking, by the doorbell, a
picture of the visitor, wherein determining the occurrence of the
predetermined condition can comprise determining, based on the
picture, that the visitor is included in a database of suspicious
visitors that previously visited other doorbells.
[0076] Methods can further include creating 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, wherein
determining the occurrence of the predetermined condition can
comprise determining that a visitation time of the visitor is
within the first timeframe, and emitting the custom message
comprises emitting the first sound in response to determining that
the visitation time of the visitor is within the first
timeframe.
[0077] The disclosure also includes a doorbell system, comprising:
a doorbell including a button, a speaker and a microphone, wherein
the doorbell is configurable to attach to an exterior of a
building, and wherein the button is configurable to receive a first
button press and a second button press; and a custom audible
message received by the microphone in response to the first button
press, wherein the custom audible message is then emitted by the
speaker in response to the second button press.
[0078] The custom audible message may comprise a name of a select
visitor, and the custom audible message may be emitted by the
speaker in response to both the second button press and the
doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of the select
visitor. Doorbell systems may further comprise a predetermined
audible message emitted by the speaker in response to the first
button press. The custom audible message may be received by the
microphone in response to the first button press and after the
predetermined audible message is emitted by the speaker.
[0079] The first button press may comprise two button presses and
the second button press may comprise one button press. The first
button press may comprise the button being pressed for a first
duration and the second button press may comprise the button being
pressed for a second duration. The first duration may be greater
than the second duration.
[0080] The doorbell may further comprise a memory communicatively
coupled to the microphone and speaker, wherein the memory may be
configurable to store the custom audible message and the
predetermined audible message.
[0081] The disclosure also include a doorbell system, comprising: a
doorbell including a button, a speaker and a microphone, wherein
the doorbell is configurable to attach to an exterior of a
building; a first custom audible message emitted by the speaker in
response to the doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of a
first visitor; and a second custom audible message emitted by the
speaker in response to the doorbell detecting an indication of a
presence of a second visitor.
[0082] The doorbell system may be communicatively coupled to a
second doorbell system attached to an exterior of a second building
that is remotely located with respect to the first building. As
well, detecting the indication of the presence of the first visitor
may comprise the doorbell system receiving a first notification
from the second doorbell system, and detecting the indication of
the presence of the second visitor may comprise the doorbell system
receiving a second notification from the second doorbell
system.
[0083] The first custom audible message may comprise a first name
of the first visitor. The second visitor may be a solicitor and the
second custom audible message may comprise an apology and a message
that a resident of the building does not patronize solicitors.
[0084] Doorbell systems may comprise a wireless communication
system communicatively coupled to the doorbell, wherein the
wireless communication system is configurable to retrieve data from
a remote computer; a third custom audible message emitted by the
speaker in response to the doorbell detecting an indication of a
presence of a third visitor, wherein the third custom audible
message comprises a first name of the third visitor; and a camera
coupled to the doorbell, wherein the camera is configurable to
capture a facial image of the third visitor, wherein the first name
of the third visitor is thereby determined through the wireless
communication system communicating with the remote computer to
match facial recognition data from the facial image of the third
visitor as captured by the camera with facial recognition data from
a facial image of the third visitor from an online social
network.
[0085] Detecting the indication of the presence of the first
visitor may comprise determining an identity of the first visitor,
and wherein detecting the indication of the presence of the second
visitor may comprise determining an identity of the second visitor.
Doorbell systems may further comprise: a remote computing device
communicatively coupled to the doorbell; and a text message
received by the remote computing device, wherein the text message
comprises at least one of the identity of the first visitor and the
identity of the second visitor.
[0086] This disclosure also includes a method of using a doorbell
system comprising a doorbell and a chime, wherein the doorbell
system is configured to be coupled to a building. Methods can
include coupling communicatively the chime to a wireless network of
the building, to the doorbell, and to a remote computing device;
and detecting, by the doorbell, a trigger of a button of the
doorbell.
[0087] Methods can include sending a visitor alert from the
doorbell to the chime, and then sending the visitor alert from the
chime to the remote computing device such that the chime
communicatively couples the doorbell to the remote computing
device. In embodiments, the visitor alert comprises a video.
Accordingly, methods can further include the doorbell taking the
video.
[0088] As well, methods can include sending the visitor alert from
the doorbell to the chime while the doorbell is located outside of
the building and while the chime is located inside of the building.
Methods can also include sending the visitor alert from the chime
to the remote computing device via the wireless network of the
building.
[0089] Even still, methods can include sending the visitor alert
from the chime to the remote computing device in response to the
doorbell system detecting that the doorbell comprises inadequate
wireless performance to send the visitor alert to the remote
computing device via at least one of the wireless network and a
cellular network. Methods can also include sending the visitor
alert from the chime to the remote computing device in response to
the doorbell system detecting that a wireless signal of the
doorbell is below a threshold.
[0090] In embodiments, a wire communicatively couples the doorbell
to the chime. Methods can also include taking a video, by the
doorbell, and then sending the video to the chime via the wire. As
well, methods can include sending the video from the chime to the
remote computing device via the wireless network of the building.
Even still, methods may include sending the video from the chime to
the remote computing device while the doorbell is located outside
of the building and while the chime is located inside of the
building.
[0091] Methods can include coupling communicatively the chime to a
doorlock via the wireless network of the building. As well, methods
can include coupling communicatively the chime to a remote sensor
via the wireless network of the building. The remote sensor can
thereby comprise at least one of a fire alarm, a smoke alarm, a
carbon monoxide detector, and a burglar alarm.
[0092] Even still, methods can include detecting an adverse event
with the chime, wherein the adverse event comprises at least one of
a motion, breaking glass, fire, a fire alarm sound, and smoke. As
well, methods can include sending an adverse event alert to the
remote computing device in response to detecting the adverse event,
wherein the adverse event alert comprises a notification of the
adverse event.
[0093] The disclosure includes a doorbell system including a chime;
a remote computing device communicatively coupled to the chime; and
a doorbell communicatively coupled with the remote computing device
via the chime. In embodiments, the chime can be plugged into a
power outlet of a building.
[0094] Doorbell systems can include a first communication from the
doorbell to the chime. The first communication can comprise a video
taken by a camera of the doorbell. As well, doorbell systems can
include a second communication from the chime to the remote
computing device. The second communication can comprise the video.
As well, in embodiments, the remote computing device can comprise a
display configurable to display the video.
[0095] The doorbell system can also include a sound emitted by a
speaker of the chime in response to the doorbell detecting an
indication of a presence of a visitor. The chime can also comprise
a speaker configurable to play a sound file from the remote
computing device. As well, the chime can comprise a light
configurable to illuminate.
[0096] In embodiments, the chime can include a motion detector; a
camera assembly; and a microphone configurable to receive an
audible message spoken by a user. Even still, in embodiments, the
chime can include a thermometer; a humidity sensor; and a
communication system configurable to communicatively couple the
chime to at least one of the doorbell and the remote computing
device.
[0097] The embodiments described above include many optional
features and aspects. Features and aspects of the embodiments can
be combined.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0098] 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.
[0099] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system,
according to some embodiments.
[0100] FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device running software,
according to some embodiments.
[0101] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system
is connected to a building, according to some embodiments.
[0102] 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.
[0103] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram showing a method of
operating a security system, according to some embodiments.
[0104] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram showing another method of
operating a security system, according to some embodiments.
[0105] FIGS. 7, 8, 9 and 10 illustrate visitors being detected by
security systems, according to various embodiments.
[0106] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a security system
that is communicatively coupled to a communication system,
according to some embodiments.
[0107] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of various event
detection devices that are communicatively coupled to a
communication system, according to some embodiments.
[0108] FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method of monitoring
for an event through a communication system, according to some
embodiments.
[0109] 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.
[0110] 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.
[0111] FIG. 29 illustrates a back view of the doorbell from FIG. 1
without a mounting bracket, according to some embodiments.
[0112] FIG. 30 illustrates a diagrammatic view of a doorbell and a
doorbell control software application running on a computing
device, according to some embodiments.
[0113] FIG. 31 illustrates a front view of a doorbell chime,
according to some embodiments.
[0114] FIG. 32 illustrates a side perspective view of a doorbell
chime, according to some embodiments.
[0115] FIG. 33 illustrates a front view of a doorbell chime coupled
to a power outlet, according to some embodiments.
[0116] FIGS. 34, 35, and 36 illustrate diagrammatic views of
doorbell systems, according to some embodiments.
[0117] 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.
[0118] FIGS. 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, and 43 illustrate method
flowcharts, according to some embodiments.
[0119] FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate diagrammatic views of doorbell
systems, according to some embodiments.
[0120] FIG. 46 illustrates a front view of a doorbell, according to
some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0121] 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.
[0122] 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
[0123] 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.
[0124] Communication between a remotely located person and a
visitor can occur via the Internet, cellular networks,
telecommunication networks, and wireless networks.
[0125] 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.
[0126] 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.
[0127] 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.
[0128] 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.
[0129] 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.
[0130] 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.
[0131] 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).
[0132] 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.
[0133] 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.
[0134] 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.
[0135] 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).
[0136] 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.
[0137] 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.
[0138] 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.
[0139] 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.
[0140] 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.
[0141] 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).
[0142] 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.
[0143] 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).
[0144] 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.
[0145] 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.
[0146] 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.
[0147] 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.
[0148] 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.
[0149] 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.
[0150] 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. 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.
[0151] 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.
[0152] 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.
[0153] 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.
[0154] 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.
[0155] 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.
[0156] 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.
[0157] 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.
[0158] 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.
[0159] 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.
[0160] 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.
[0161] 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.
[0162] 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.
[0163] 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.
[0164] 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.
[0165] 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.
[0166] 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.
[0167] 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
[0168] 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.
[0169] 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
[0170] 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.
[0171] 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.
[0172] 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.
[0173] 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.
[0174] 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.").
[0175] 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.
[0176] 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.
[0177] 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.
[0178] 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.
[0179] 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.
[0180] 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).
[0181] 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.
[0182] 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.
[0183] 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!").
[0184] 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.
[0185] 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.
[0186] 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.
[0187] 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.
[0188] 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.
[0189] 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.
[0190] 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.
[0191] 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.
[0192] 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.
[0193] 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.
[0194] 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.
[0195] 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.
[0196] 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.
[0197] 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
[0198] 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.
[0199] 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.
[0200] 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.
[0201] 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.
[0202] 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.
[0203] 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.
[0204] 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.
[0205] 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).
[0206] 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).
[0207] 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.
[0208] 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.
[0209] 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).
[0210] 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.
[0211] 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.
[0212] 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.
[0213] 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.
[0214] 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.
[0215] 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.
[0216] 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.
[0217] 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.
[0218] 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.
[0219] 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.
[0220] 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.
[0221] 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.
[0222] 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.
[0223] 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).
[0224] 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.
[0225] 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.
[0226] 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.
[0227] 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.
[0228] 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.
[0229] 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.
[0230] 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.
[0231] 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).
[0232] 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.
[0233] 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).
[0234] 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.
[0235] 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
[0236] 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."
[0237] 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.
[0238] 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.
[0239] 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.
[0240] 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.
[0241] 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.
[0242] 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.
[0243] 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.
[0244] 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.
[0245] 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."
[0246] 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.
[0247] 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.
[0248] 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."
[0249] 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).
[0250] 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.
[0251] 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.
[0252] 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.
[0253] 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.
[0254] 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.
[0255] 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).
[0256] 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.
[0257] 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
[0258] 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.
[0259] The chime 302 is a remote communication device that can be
configured to communicate with any doorbell 202 described herein or
incorporated by reference.
[0260] 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.
[0261] 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.
[0262] 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.
[0263] 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.
[0264] 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).
[0265] 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.
[0266] 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.
[0267] 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.
[0268] 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.
[0269] 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
[0270] 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.
[0271] 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.
[0272] 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.
[0273] 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.
[0274] 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.
[0275] 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.
[0276] 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.
[0277] 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.
[0278] 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.
[0279] 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.
[0280] 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.
[0281] 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).
[0282] 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.
[0283] 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.
[0284] 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.
[0285] 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.
[0286] 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.
[0287] 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.
[0288] 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
[0289] 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.
[0290] 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.
[0291] 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.
[0292] 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.
[0293] 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.
[0294] 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).
[0295] 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.
[0296] 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
[0297] 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.
[0298] 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).
[0299] 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).
[0300] 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.
[0301] 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).
[0302] 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).
[0303] 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.
[0304] 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.
[0305] 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.
[0306] 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.
[0307] 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.
[0308] 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.
[0309] 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.
[0310] 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.
[0311] 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.
[0312] 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.
[0313] 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.
[0314] 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.
[0315] 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.
[0316] 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.
[0317] 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.
[0318] 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.
[0319] 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.
[0320] 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.
[0321] 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.
[0322] 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.
[0323] 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.
[0324] 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.
[0325] 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.
INTERPRETATION
[0326] 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.
[0327] 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.
[0328] 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.
[0329] 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.
[0330] 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.
[0331] 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.
[0332] 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.
* * * * *