ES2956852B2 - Doorbell video camera device - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

Doorbell video camera device

Technical field

The present invention relates to a doorbell video camera device configured to function as a controller of a security surveillance system, and to security surveillance systems that include such a doorbell video camera device.

Background

Burglary, theft, shoplifting, and criminal damage to premises such as homes and businesses are problems that have preoccupied human society for centuries, and possibly millennia. It may be surprising that burglar alarms have existed in some form since the 18th century, while the first electric burglar alarm was apparently patented in 1853 by Reverend Augustus Russell Pope and sounded a bell if a door or window was opened. But what is most surprising is that Pope's invention was quickly commercialized and used as the basis for a monitored alarm service in which signals from alarm installations were transmitted over telephone lines to personnel working at a remote control station.

In the 21st century, the best security surveillance systems still involve remote monitoring of alarm events, but they also include some element of video capture on protected premises, with video footage related to events sent to a remote monitoring station for review. These systems typically require professional installation and a monthly or annual subscription, which can make them unattractive or unaffordable for some people, even those interested in home security. While cheaper, usually unsupervised, systems exist for both professional installation and DIY use, in recent years many people have been drawn to the potential of providing a form of self-monitored video surveillance using motion-activated video cameras and doorbell cameras that connect to cloud-based end systems, typically via Wi-Fi, to provide push notifications that include motion-triggered video clips. These cameras also often allow the homeowner to log in to view live video feeds from all cameras installed on the premises. Doorbell cameras can also notify a homeowner of a presence at the front door of the monitored premises, allow them to answer a doorbell, and converse with a visitor through the doorbell.

Some doorbell camera and related video camera providers offer subscription services for video storage systems. They also provide hardware and kits for adding a system controller and alarm peripherals, such as door/window contact switches, motion sensors, etc., which can be combined to allow the user to create a complete security surveillance system, typically installed using a DIY approach. Users of these DIY security surveillance systems can also subscribe to a remote monitoring service, but this can incur costs not significantly different from those of a professionally installed surveillance system, even though a DIY system is unlikely to offer the same level of security. This may explain why, generally, most people who install doorbell cameras and home video cameras do not opt for any kind of security monitoring system, instead relying on motion-activated push notifications. The perceived difficulty of performing an effective DIY installation to create a professional-quality security surveillance system is also likely to be a deterrent.

Therefore, it is necessary to find a solution to the problem of offering a security surveillance system that is effective and easy to install, but that avoids at least some of the adoption barriers of existing solutions for some customers.

Summary

According to a first aspect, a doorbell video camera device is provided that includes a camera capable of capturing video images, a first and a second RF transceiver, a processor coupled to the camera and the RF transceivers, and a memory that stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to function as the controller of a security surveillance system with an on mode and an off mode, and which:

Receive event notifications, via the first RF transceiver, from one or more alarm peripherals and, in armed mode, in response to receiving an event notification from one of the alarm peripherals, transmit an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver; and, in both armed and disarmed modes, transmit the video images captured by the camera via the second RF transceiver. By providing the functionality of a security surveillance system in a doorbell video camera device, it is possible to install a security surveillance system quickly, easily, and inexpensively, encouraging adoption and providing the basis for an attractive upgrade path to a complete remote monitoring system.

Optionally, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause it to also function as a controller for an electronic door lock and to exchange messages with the lock using the first transceiver. By providing an electronic door lock in conjunction with the specially configured doorbell video camera device, the user experience and convenience are further enhanced.

Optionally, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause it to respond to a tamper message received from the lock by transmitting a tamper warning using the second transceiver (and also transmitting an alert in response to receiving an alert from the lock). Preferably, in response to receiving the tamper message (or the alert), the processor is also configured to: transmit an instruction, using the first transceiver, to activate a standalone video camera in the security surveillance system, causing the standalone video camera to transmit the captured video for reception via the second transceiver; the processor is further configured to transmit the captured video received via the second transceiver.

Optionally, the processor is further configured to receive event alerts, via the second RF transceiver, from the standalone video camera and, in the enabled mode, in response to receiving an event alert from the standalone video camera to transmit an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver.

Optionally, the doorbell video camera device described in the first aspect is combined with an electronically controlled, door-mounted lock. The lock includes a lock transceiver for communication with the first transceiver of the doorbell video camera device. Preferably, the doorbell video camera device is configured to transmit a command to the lock, using the first transceiver, to allow the door to be opened. Optionally, the lock is configured to transmit a tamper signal, using the lock transceiver, if an attempt is made to remove the door lock. The security monitoring system controller can be notified in advance (e.g., via a system user interface or a system maintenance application) if the door lock needs to be removed, so that the controller does not send a false alarm to the alarm control panel.

Preferably, in the doorbell and lock combination video camera device, the lock further comprises an accelerometer configured to function as a shock sensor. The lock processor and the accelerometer work together as a shock detector to generate a tamper signal in the event of an attempt to force or interfere with the lock. The lock is configured to transmit any tamper signal using the lock transceiver. Preferably, the lock processor and the accelerometer work together as a shock detector to generate an alert signal in the event of an attempt to force the door, and the lock processor is configured to transmit the alert signal using the lock transceiver. Under certain circumstances, the alert may indicate an intrusion, but under other circumstances, the alert may indicate tampering, potentially depending on the nature of the detected shocks, the regulatory framework, and the installation or configuration of the accelerometer and the processor. If an intrusion is detected, it should be flagged as such, whereas an attack that is not sufficient to constitute an intrusion should preferably be flagged as a tampering event.

A lock of this type can be configured to meet the requirements of EN 50131-2-8 Grade 2 (especially those relating to shock sensors and shock detection), meaning that the lock can be conveniently integrated into a Grade 2 (or higher) security monitoring system without jeopardizing the system's classification. The grade or category of an installed intruder alarm system indicates how easily the system can be bypassed and the level of security provided, which are important for insurance coverage. The grade of an alarm installation is determined by the grade of the lowest-category component in the system.

Optionally, the lock includes a magnetometer configured to detect the presence of one or more magnets located outside the lock but inside or attached to the door. The magnetometer generates a tamper signal as a result of increased separation between the magnetometer and the one or more magnets, caused by the lock being removed from the door. Preferably, the door is mounted in a frame, with at least one magnet associated with the frame to provide a magnetic field that is detected by a magnetometer in the lock to determine whether the door is open or closed. The lock is configured to transmit door status alerts to the doorbell video camera device. Preferably, the lock includes an audio output device, and the doorbell video camera device is configured to respond to a chime activation event by transmitting, using the first transceiver, a chime signal to cause the lock to produce a chime sound using the audio output device.

Ideally, the lock processor is configured to indicate the nature of the attack that triggered the signal transmission in alerts and tamper signals. For example, it is desirable to distinguish between signals resulting from a mechanical impact due to a forced entry into the door or door frame, those caused by attempts to force the lock, and those caused by attempts to separate the lock from the door. This information can be useful in distinguishing between genuine attacks and false alarms, thus verifying that a security alert can be transmitted to the police for appropriate action.

Ideally, the lock's processor is configured to indicate, in the tamper and alarm signals, which sensor triggered the signal transmission. This information can also be useful for distinguishing between genuine attacks and false alarms, for example, between vibrations caused by an attack and those caused by road or rail traffic, or the impact of a kicked soccer ball.

In a doorbell video camera device according to any variant of the first aspect, the memory can also store additional instructions for an alternative mode of operation in which the doorbell video camera device itself functions as a peripheral of an independent controller of a security surveillance system, making the additional instructions, when executed by the processor, that the processor:

Exchange messages with the independent controller using the first transceiver, and transmit the video images captured by the camera to the independent controller via the second RF transceiver. Preferably, the processor is configured in alternate operating mode to respond to the reception of a bell activation event by transmitting, via the first transceiver, a bell signal to the independent controller to cause an audio output device of the security surveillance system to produce a bell sound in response to the bell activation event.

According to a second aspect, a premises security monitoring system installation is provided comprising a doorbell video camera device and a combination lock as previously disclosed in combination with an installed alarm peripheral comprising a door/window contact for detecting the status of a door or window, or a standalone motion-activated video camera, the alarm peripheral including a transceiver for communication with the first transceiver of the doorbell video camera device.

According to a third aspect, a procedure is provided for updating a security surveillance system installation that includes one or more alarm peripherals and a doorbell video camera device according to the first aspect, the procedure comprising: reconfiguring the doorbell video camera device so that its processor ceases to function as the controller of the security surveillance system; providing a standalone controller for the security surveillance system; configuring the doorbell video camera device to function as a peripheral of the standalone controller; and registering the alarm peripherals of the security surveillance system with the standalone system controller.

In the third aspect of the procedure, the reconfiguration of the doorbell video camera device may involve storing additional instructions in memory. When executed by the processor, these instructions cause it to: exchange messages with the independent controller using the first transceiver, and transmit the video images captured by the camera to the independent controller via the second RF transceiver. Storing these additional instructions could, for example, result from a firmware update.

According to a fourth aspect, an operating procedure for a doorbell video camera device is provided, the device comprising a camera capable of capturing video images, a first and a second RF transceiver, a processor coupled to the camera and the RF transceivers, and a memory that stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause it to function as the controller of a security surveillance system with an activated mode and a deactivated mode, the procedure comprising: receiving event notifications, through the first RF transceiver, from one or more alarm peripherals; in the activated mode, in response to the receipt of an event notification from one of the alarm peripherals, transmitting an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver; and in both the activated and deactivated modes, transmitting, through the second RF transceiver, video images captured by the camera.

The procedure of the fourth aspect may also include, in the activated mode, the receipt of an event notification, through the second RF transceiver, from a video camera independent of the security surveillance system, and in response the transmission of an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver.

According to a fifth aspect, a kit of parts is provided that includes:

a doorbell video camera device according to the first aspect; and an electronic control lock, including a lock transceiver for communication with the first transceiver of the doorbell video camera device.

In the fifth aspect parts kit, the electronic control lock may include a magnetometer that is configured to detect the presence of one or more magnets located outside the lock but inside a door on which the lock is mounted, the magnetometer generating the tamper signal as a result of increased separation, between the magnetometer and the magnet(s), caused by the removal of the lock from the door.

In the fifth aspect parts kit, a lock magnetometer can be coupled to a lock processor and configured to detect a magnetic field from a magnet associated with a frame receiving a door to which the lock is mounted, the lock processor being configured to detect a door status based on whether the door is open or closed, the door status being derived from the signals received from the coupled magnetometer, and the lock being configured to transmit door status alerts to the doorbell video camera device.

In the fifth aspect kit, the lock preferably further comprises an accelerometer configured to function as a shock sensor, with the lock processor and the accelerometer working together as a shock detector to generate a tamper signal in the event of an attempt to force or interfere with the lock. The lock is configured to transmit any tamper signal using the lock transceiver. Preferably, the lock processor and the accelerometer work together as a shock detector to generate an alert signal if the door is forced, and the processor is configured to transmit the alert signal using the lock transceiver. Under certain circumstances, the alert may indicate an intrusion, but under other circumstances, the alert may indicate tampering, potentially depending on the nature of the detected shock(s), the regulatory framework, and the installation or configuration of the accelerometer and the processor. If an intrusion is detected, it should be flagged as such, whereas an attack that is not sufficient to constitute an intrusion should preferably be flagged as a tampering event.

In the fifth aspect parts kit, the lock may be pre-installed on the door before it is installed in a building.

In the fifth aspect kit, the door may incorporate one or more magnets provided for tamper detection.

In the fifth aspect parts kit, the door is pre-installed in the frame before the door and frame are installed in a building, including the frame magnet that is provided for deriving information on the status of the door.

Brief description of the figures

The embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which

Figure 1 schematically shows a house with a doorbell video camera installation;

Figure 2 schematically illustrates the main components of a doorbell video camera device and a smart lock according to embodiments of the invention;

Figure 3 schematically illustrates some construction details and lock arrangements according to aspects of the invention;

Figure 4 schematically illustrates several of the parts that make up an installation and a system according to one embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 5 schematically illustrates several of the parts that form another installation and system according to another embodiment of the invention.

Specific description

Figure 1 schematically shows a dwelling with a doorbell video camera system. A doorbell video camera 100 is located next to the main entrance door 102, in this case the front door, of house 104. The front door 102 is equipped with a "smart" lock 106 that can be locked and unlocked by electrical control signals, received, for example, from a personal communication device 108 belonging to the homeowner. For example, the doorbell video camera 100 can cooperate with a backend service 110 that sends push notifications to the user's personal communication device 108 when the doorbell is pressed (or optionally when someone approaches the doorbell 100). To support these communications, the doorbell video camera device can use Wi-Fi to connect to a Wi-Fi router 112 that has a broadband connection 114 to the Internet 115. The backend service 110 sends push notifications to a public land mobile network (PLMN) 116, through which the notifications are delivered to the user's personal communication device 108. The same communication path can be used to transmit live video (and audio) from the doorbell video camera device 100 to the user. A reverse communication path is also supported to allow the user to speak to a person at doorbell 100, and also to allow the user to activate (i.e., release) lock 106 to allow the person at the door to open door 102. Signals to activate (release) the lock can be passed to lock 106 directly, but preferably (in this configuration) they are passed through the doorbell video camera device 100 which in turn communicates with lock 106.

Figure 2 schematically illustrates the main components of a doorbell video camera device 100 and a smart lock 106, as shown in Figure 1, according to embodiments of the invention. A doorbell video camera device 100 includes a processor 200, which may be a microcontroller, with an associated memory 202 that stores program instructions ("software") which, when executed by the processor 200, control the operation of the doorbell video camera device 100. A pair of transceivers 204, 206 are provided. The first transceiver 204 supports Wi-Fi communication with a Wi-Fi access point (AP), such as the Wi-Fi router 112 in Figure 1, for the transmission of video signals from the video camera 208 and audio signals from the microphone 210. The second transceiver 206 supports a lower-bandwidth channel that supports the transmission of control signals and event alerts from alarm peripherals such as the smart lock 106, external video cameras, door/window contacts (which detect the open or closed state of windows or doors), etc. Typically, the low-bandwidth channel(s) can be provided using a suitable frequency allocated in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands, such as 868 MHz (in Europe). Preferably, communications on the low-bandwidth channel(s) are encrypted. The primary reason for using a low-bandwidth transmission channel is to enable the use of low-power transceivers (in alarm peripherals) (specifically, lower power consumption than high-power Wi-Fi transceivers), so that battery-powered alarm peripherals can achieve the minimum required battery life of 3 to 5 years. Transceivers 204 and 206 are coupled to an antenna arrangement 212 that typically comprises (multiple) independent antenna elements for the two transceivers 204 and 206. One or both transceivers 204, 206, may support other transmission bands/protocols, such as Bluetooth (RTM) or BLE, for example.

The doorbell video camera device 100 also includes a doorbell activation device 214, which may comprise a mechanical switch or "doorbell button," and preferably one that provides tactile feedback upon activation. Knownly, the doorbell activation device 214 may be located together with a video camera lens 208, but it may also be provided separately so that the video camera lens does not have to move when the doorbell activation device 214 is activated.

The doorbell video camera device 100 preferably also includes (or may be connected to) a keypad 216 for entering digits (such as access codes or PINs). Preferably, the keypad 216 is a mechanical device that provides tactile feedback upon activation.

The doorbell video camera device 100 also includes a motion detection device 217 that can be used to activate the video camera for motion-triggered video capture and motion signaling (alert), although the video camera can be configured to always be live to provide continuous surveillance. The motion detection arrangement can include one or more passive infrared sensors. The motion detection arrangement can use radar or ultrasound to determine the distance of an object (e.g., a person) from the doorbell video camera device, and this can be combined with passive infrared presence detection and/or other types of presence detection. The video doorbell may have an associated application or online tool that allows the user to set activity zones, ranges, configure sensitivities, etc., so that alerts relating to detected movement or presence are not transmitted, for example, with respect to movement detected in public spaces (e.g., by people walking on a sidewalk outside the premises, or vehicles passing on a road outside the protected premises).

The doorbell video camera device 100 preferably includes illumination 218 (in the form of one or more light sources), in particular infrared illumination, but optionally also illumination that provides visible light.

The doorbell video camera device 100 can also include a display 219 for viewing messages and information to the user. Although it would be possible to integrate the keypad function 216 into the display 219 using a touchscreen, it is preferable to keep these functions separate and use a separate mechanical keypad 216, both for reasons of durability and power consumption.

The doorbell video camera device 100 also includes a speaker 220 to reproduce a user's voice on the user device 108, for processor 200 alerts, and to function as an alarm sound or siren in the event of an alarm event, as explained later. The provision of at least one speaker (two or more may be provided) along with at least one microphone (two or more may be provided) enables two-way audio between a person on the doorbell video camera device and another person, for example, a designated user via a user device (for example, a smartphone with a doorbell video camera device application or a security surveillance system application). The presence of one or more 210 microphones also enables the use of voiceprint identification as a form of access control. For example, a resident or trusted visitor (such as a nurse, caregiver, cleaner, etc.) who has stored a voiceprint in the system can gain access to the house by speaking into the doorbell camera device. The system compares the given voice sample with known stored voice samples to identify the speaker. If the identified speaker is on an approved list, the doorbell camera device sends an instruction to a smart lock on the corresponding access door, allowing the speaker to unlock the door and enter the protected premises.

Preferably, the doorbell video camera device 100 also includes a near field communication (NFC) antenna 220 to enable near field communication with an NFC device, such as a dongle, smartwatch, NFC sticker, or suitably equipped mobile phone, for example, to authenticate a user and possibly to unlock an associated smart lock 106 for access to the protected premises.

The doorbell camera device 100 is provided with an external housing or enclosure 221 to protect the doorbell components. Preferably, the housing 221 is provided with a tamper detection system 213 that functions to generate a tamper alert if the housing of the doorbell camera device 100 is removed. This tamper alert is preferably handled by the security surveillance system controller (the controller may be provided by the doorbell camera device itself or by an independent entity), regardless of the armed status of the security surveillance system. The users (or the owner(s) of the security surveillance system may have an application through which the security surveillance system controller can be notified in advance of a predicted event that would otherwise be treated as an alarm event, so that the security surveillance system controller can be configured to ignore the predicted event when it occurs. For example, it may be necessary to remove the housing 221 from the doorbell video camera device to replace a faulty battery 226. Using the application, a user or service engineer can prevent the security surveillance system controller from treating the removal of the housing as a tampering event that should be reported as an alarm event. The same principle applies equally to the lock 106 and its tamper detection.

The doorbell video camera device 100 is preferably provided with a mains power supply 222 coupled to a power source 224 that includes a rechargeable battery 226 (as an auxiliary power source for use in the event of a mains failure) and a charging device 228 for managing the charging of the rechargeable battery 226. Preferably, as shown, the doorbell video camera device 100 also includes an interface 230 (such as a micro USB port, a USB-C port, or a "light" socket) to accept a low-voltage supply (e.g., 5V or 20V) (e.g., from a power bank or external charger) which, in the absence of a mains power supply (or in the event of a mains power failure), can be used to recharge the rechargeable battery 226 on-site, instead of having to remove the battery for recharging, so that the doorbell video camera device can always be powered, which is an important consideration when the doorbell video camera device also functions as a controller of a security surveillance system. Before describing the use of the doorbell video camera device as a controller for a security surveillance system, we will first describe the 106 lock, which, although not an essential part of the security surveillance system installation, is a very desirable and useful complement to a doorbell video camera device functioning as a controller for a security surveillance system.

Returning to lock 106, it is shown installed on a door 240, with a cooperating strike plate 242 and receiving at least one latch 244. Lock 106 can be configured as a mortise lock, in which case the lock will normally include a latch or mortise bolt (not shown) in addition to the latch 244. Providing lock 106 as a mortise lock is particularly attractive if the lock is to be pre-installed in a door (or if the door is to be manufactured with mortise elements provided for on-site installation of the lock) rather than subsequently fitted to a previously hung door as a replacement for an existing lock. However, in some cases, especially when replacing a surface-mounted lock, it is desirable to surface-mount the lock 106 (on the protected, usually interior, side of the door 240) because installation is often much easier and faster if it is not necessary to create a mortise inside the door to accept the new lock. In any case, the latch 224 can be housed in a mortise inside the door, but with a surface-mounted lock, the latch can also be external to the door. The lock 106 is provided with an actuator 246, which can be a solenoid or a motor, that operates the latch in the locked or unlocked positions, or that engages or disengages a clutch which engages or disengages a knob or handle 248 on the exposed face of the door, allowing the latch to be withdrawn to the unlocked position and permitting the door to be opened from the exposed (unprotected) side. Normally, if lock 106 is fitted with a clutch handle, the actuator will be a solenoid rather than a motor. Lock 106 may, of course, be fitted with another handle or knob (not shown) on the protected side of door 240 to operate the latch 244 for opening and locking door 240 from the protected (usually interior) side.

The lock 106 includes a power supply 250 comprising a rechargeable battery 252, and a charging device 254 for managing the charging of the rechargeable battery 252. The charging arrangement can be coupled to a mains power supply, but for ease and simplicity, it may be preferable to include an interface 256 (such as a micro USB port, a USB-C port, or a "light" socket) to accept a low-voltage supply (e.g., 5V or 20V) (e.g., from a power bank or external charger) which, in the absence of a mains power supply (or in the event of a mains power failure), can be used to recharge the rechargeable battery 252 in situ, instead of having to remove the battery for recharging, so that the lock 106 can always be powered.

The actuator 246 is coupled to and controlled by a processor 258, which has an associated memory 260 that stores program instructions ("software") that, when executed by the processor 258, control the operation of the lock 106. The processor 258 may be a microcontroller. Also coupled to and controlled by the processor 258 is a transceiver 262 configured to receive control signals and transmit event information to a security monitoring system controller (e.g., from the doorbell video camera device 100). These transmissions may be of relatively low bandwidth (e.g., compared to the video transmissions from the doorbell 100), so a low-bandwidth channel is appropriate, which means a low-power transceiver can be used, thus facilitating an acceptably long battery life. For example, the 262 transceiver can be configured to operate using a suitable assigned frequency in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands, such as (in Europe) 868 MHz. Preferably, communications to and from the lock are encrypted.

The lock 106 preferably also includes a doorbell or speaker (more generally, a sound output device) 263 that is coupled to the processor 258. This doorbell can be used instead of, or in addition to, a separate doorbell that sounds whenever the doorbell trigger device 214 of the doorbell video camera device is activated, the doorbell video camera device 100's processor 200 being configured to use the second transceiver 206 to transmit a doorbell trigger signal tagged with a flag to which the lock processor 258 and/or the processor of a separate doorbell sounding device (not shown) responds by using an internal sound output device to ring in response to the activation of the doorbell trigger device 214.

The lock 106 may be provided with a housing 259 through which the latch 244 and any mortise lock are free to protrude, the knob or handle 248 being, of course, outside the housing 259. Preferably, the housing is made of an industrial plastic material or a non-ferromagnetic material so as not to interfere with the operation of one or more magnetometers provided as part of the lock 106.

The lock 106 further includes a magnetometer 264 that is configured to detect and monitor a first magnetic field provided by a first magnet 266 that is fixedly mounted with respect to the frame 268 or another pillar against which the door 240 is closed. The same magnetometer 264, or an additional magnetometer (not shown), is configured to detect and monitor a second magnetic field provided by a second magnet 270 that is fixed to the door, preferably mounted inside the door, i.e., between the protected face and the unprotected face of the door, although it is also possible to fix (e.g., glue) a magnet to the face of the door (the face of the protected inner side (e.g., the inside) of the door). This second magnet 270 is external to the lock 106 and is provided so that the magnetometer configured to detect the magnetic field of the second magnet 270 can generate a tamper signal to indicate an attempt to remove the lock 106 from the door 240. Meanwhile, the magnetometer 264, configured to detect and monitor the first magnetic field provided by a first magnet 266, can provide a signal to indicate the status of the door, for example, whether the door 240 is open or closed. The processor 258 can be configured to generate an alert signal, which is transmitted to the controller of the security monitoring system, for example, the doorbell video camera device improved according to aspects of the invention, to inform a monitoring service or the homeowner/occupant if the door is detected being opened without the lock having been unlocked and/or the alarm having been deactivated, as this indicates that the door 240 has been forced.

The 106 lock also includes an accelerometer 275, which is also coupled to the processor 258, and is configured to function as a shock sensor. This provides the processor with signals that detect attempts to force the lock, drill the lock cylinder, and other mechanical attacks, as well as signals in the event of attempts to break down the door (or force the lock open) with a sledgehammer or battering ram, for example. Preferably, the processor 258 is configured to distinguish accelerometer signals generated by a normal knock on the door from signals generated by much more forceful impacts, which are characteristic of attempts to force the door open. The inclusion of the accelerometer 275 provides a basis for certifying the lock as an alarm detector, or an alarm peripheral (for an alarm system of at least Grade 2 or Grade 3) according to EN 50131.

While the preceding description assumes the lock electronics are housed within a lock case along with the main mechanical components, the invention also contemplates alternative arrangements where the smart lock electronics are provided in a unit separate from the lock case. For example, in a mortise lock where the main mechanical parts are housed within a recessed element in a door (preferably contained within a lock case inside the door), a separate unit (preferably) may be provided on the protected (e.g., interior) face of the door to house the smart lock electronics. This separate unit is mechanically coupled to the mechanical parts of the lock inside the door. This arrangement can be used to allow the smart lock functionality to be retrofitted to a previously installed lock, for example, by removing the existing lock cylinder and replacing it with a new cylinder that provides a mechanical connection to the new separate unit, enabling the lock to be locked or unlocked remotely. If the lock assembly includes a latch, this can also be coupled to the new standalone unit to allow a motor or other actuator (e.g., a solenoid) to operate both the latch and the bolt, potentially enabling contactless door opening. This approach is best understood with reference to Figure 3.

Figure 3A shows a mortise lock 300 installed in a mortise (cavity) formed within a door 302, viewed from the protected side, e.g., the inside, of the door. The lock includes a lock case 304, shown in outline, within which are housed the bolt 306 and a latch 308. The bolt 306 is shown here retracted, so that only the free end of the bolt is visible at the front 310 of the lock, in which state the door 302 can be opened from the closed position. The lock 300 is secured within the mortise by screws 312, 312' passing through the front end 310 into the door material. The lock can be locked and unlocked by means of the keyed cylinder 314, which is shown here pulled out of its hole 315 in the lock towards the inside (protected) side of the door. The cylinder shown is a European-type cylinder in which a key operates a pin and hammer arrangement (other types of cylinders are, of course, used, and the invention is equally applicable to locks using these other types of cylinders). At each end of the cylinder is a keyhole 316, and by inserting a properly coded key into the keyhole 316, it is possible to rotate a rotating cam 318 having an integral tongue 320 which, when installed in the lock, is effective in moving the latch 306 in and out of the lock case 304, and thus unlocking and locking the door 302 to an associated door frame (not shown). The free end of the latch engages an opening or "guard" in the door frame to lock the door in the closed position.

The cylinder 314 is held in position in the lock by a retaining screw, not shown, which passes through an opening 322 in the front of the lock. Notice that the lock is shown without the usual cover plate that would normally cover the front 310 of the lock. The latch 308 is opened and closed by a latch drive that engages with a square-section opening 324 in the latch (or with a latch driver inside the lock). The latch may be attached to a handle or knob (one on each side of the door) by which the latch can be retracted. Often, the latches are spring-loaded, so that they return to the position shown, with the latch tongue protruding from the lock, when pressure on the handle or knob is released. Sometimes, the latch is coupled to be operated by the cylinder, so that further rotation of the cylinder in one direction retracts the latch, and rotation in the opposite direction does the opposite, in which case there may be no latch handle, or a latch handle only on the protected side of the door.

Figure 3A shows two European-type cylinders: on the left, a conventional cylinder 314 with a lock 316 at each end; on the right, a new cylinder 314' in which, instead of the lock on the protected side of the door, an elongated tongue 326 protrudes. The tongue 326 will be coupled to the mechanism of an assembly that includes the mechanism and electronics of an electronic lock. This assembly, which will be described with reference to Figures 3B and 3C, will be installed in place of the escutcheon 328 that surrounds the bore 315 for the cylinder 314.

In Figure 3B, an assembly comprising the mechanism and electronics of an electronic lock is housed within a knob 330, which is fixed to the door 302 by means of a mounting plate 332. The mounting plate 332 is mounted to the inside face of the door by a pair of fixing screws 334. The mounting plate includes engagement portions, shown here as projections 336, which may be flange-shaped. These engage and lock into corresponding formations within the knob 330. The mounting plate 332 and the knob may be held together by one or more concealed fixing screws, each concealed in respective holes 338 through the curved surface (here) of a first portion 340 of the knob 330. Most of the knob's length forms a body 339 that extends about the first part 340 (or interior) and receives it.

Figure 3B also shows a set of one or more visual indicators 341, for example, in the form of several RGB LEDs, which can indicate the status of the electronic lock and/or its mode or state. Finally, Figure 3B shows one or more openings 342 formed in the main surface of the mounting plate 332. Each opening 342 provides a window through which the magnetic field of a magnet 270 can pass unobstructed. The magnet 270 can be mounted on the door surface within the window provided by an opening 342, or the mounting plate can be used as a template to allow a recess or hole (for example, drilled, machined, or carved) to be formed in the door structure so that a magnet can be inserted into the door body. If the recess or hole is deep enough, the magnet can be embedded in the door and concealed under a wooden or plastic cover, possibly before attaching the mounting plate to the door. As noted, one or more magnets 270 can thus be mounted in the door to cooperate with the magnetometer(s) 264 of the electronic lock, as described with reference to Figure 2. It is understood that the position of the opening(s) 342 with respect to the engagement portions 336, and the position of the complementary features of the assembly with respect to the accelerometer used to detect the magnetic field of the magnet 270, are chosen so that, when the assembly is mounted in the door, the magnetometer 264 and the magnet 270 are aligned for optimal sensitivity.

Figure 3C schematically shows a longitudinal section through assembly 330, mounting plate 332, lock case 304, door 302, and door frame. The assembly comprises the knob 330, which fits onto an inner portion 340. The inner portion 340 includes the latching portions 350, which engage and lock into place with the latching portions 336 of the mounting plate 332. As shown, approximately half the length of the knob overlaps the inner portion 340, and the inner portion provides an enclosure or housing for the smart lock electronics, although many configurations are possible. The tongue 326 of the cylinder 314' extends through an opening in a printed circuit board 251 (or between a pair of printed circuit boards) that carries most of the smart lock's electronics, including the processor 258, memory 260, RF transceiver 262, magnetometers 264, and accelerometer 275. As illustrated, two magnetometers are used: one for tamper detection using a magnetic field from a magnet mounted on the door 270, and the other 264' for detecting the door's open status using a magnetic field from a magnet mounted on the frame 266, although the same functionality can be provided using a single magnetometer. Connected to the processor, but optionally mounted outside the printed circuit board 251, are the speaker/probe 263 and indicators 341.

The set includes a battery power supply 252, a charging device 254, along with a charging socket 256 (preferably at the bottom of the knob).

In the example shown in Figure 3C, the locking mechanism includes an electrically controlled actuator 246 (e.g., a motor or solenoid) and an optional associated mechanism 352 configured to apply a rotary torque between the inner portion 340 of the knob and the tongue 326, to rotate the cylinder 314 in the lock—to retract the latch 244 into the locking case 304 or to extend the latch 244 from the locking case 304. A force transfer arrangement 354 can be provided between the cam tongue 320 and the latch. Similarly, the lock can be configured so that rotation (over-rotation) of the cam 318 can also actuate the latch 308.

Although Figure 3 shows the appropriate arrangements for a conventional door, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the same assembly and modified cylinder could equally be used in conjunction with a door (or French window, patio door, etc., or similar) that has a multi-point locking system (which typically has a minimum of three locking points that engage simultaneously when the mechanism is activated). These usually operate in conjunction with a cylinder lock (e.g., a European-type cylinder lock), although locking typically involves manually operating a door handle to engage the various locking points with their counterparts before the lock engages. While this engagement phase may require the application of excessive torque for the sensitive application of the described electronic lock addition (if not for reasons other than short battery life), the locking and unlocking steps, distinct from the engagement/disengagement operations, could potentially be handled using a system such as the one just described.

In an alternative arrangement, the smart lock is provided with a clutched handle or knob on each side of the door. The smart lock mechanism is configured to control the clutch arrangement so that, in the unlocked condition, it allows the latch to be withdrawn, and in the locked position, it disengages the handles/knobs from the latch, preventing them from releasing the latch to unlock the door. It is also evident that, instead of providing the additional knob assembly, a larger, non-knob-shaped body (though potentially including a knob to facilitate door opening) can be used to house the added mechanism, and such an arrangement can be configured to include an actuated latch actuator.

Next, we will consider the operation of the doorbell video camera device as a controller of a security surveillance system in the context of Figure 4.

Figure 4 schematically illustrates a home security surveillance system (home alarm) 400 built around a doorbell video camera device 100 that functions as the system controller 400. In the illustrated example, the system 400 includes a smart lock 106, as described in Figure 2 and/or Figure 3, so that the system user (e.g., the homeowner) can remotely unlock the door 240 to which the lock 106 is connected to admit a visitor, after verifying that the visitor is legitimate via the doorbell video camera 100.

The 400 system includes alarm peripherals such as a door contact 402, for example on the back door 404 of the house, which may be a magnetic detection switch (such as a reed relay) that detects whether the door 404 is open or closed and transmits an alert that is received by the second transceiver 206 (for example 868MHz) of the doorbell video camera device 100 and processed by the processor 200 to generate, if the system is activated, an alarm event signal that is directed to a remote alarm notification service (for example, cloud-based) 110 and transmitted by the first transceiver (for example, Wi-Fi) 204 (the speaker of the doorbell video camera device may also be activated immediately as a siren or to provide some other sound deterrent). The transmitted alarm event signal is received by the premises' Wi-Fi access point (AP) 112 and transmitted via a broadband Internet connection 115 and thus to the cloud-based alarm notification service 110.

In the cloud-based alarm notification service 110, the identity of the security monitoring system (which may be that of the doorbell camera device 100) included in the alarm event signal is checked against a database of registered system identities to retrieve an address (e.g., a SIP address, a mobile phone number, an email address) corresponding to the registered alarm system's identity. The alarm notification service 110 then sends a notification to the registered address so that the user receives, for example, a notification (e.g., a local notification) on their smartphone 108 or other personal electronic device, and/or an automated phone call providing details of the alarm event, such as the identity/type/location of the sensor (e.g., the rear door contact sensor) that was triggered. A user receiving such a notification may request the transmission of video or images from cameras 406, 406' installed on the premises (e.g., a push notification may include one or more "action buttons" which, when activated by the user, cause the user's device 108 to transmit an instruction to the alarm notification service 110, which then sends an instruction to the security surveillance system controller 400 (i.e., the doorbell camera device processor) to transmit activation signals to wake up cameras 406, 406', causing them to capture and transmit images and/or video. The security surveillance system controller 400 (i.e., the doorbell camera device processor) receives these video transmissions using the first transceiver (Wi-Fi) 204, and the same transceiver is used to transmit the images/videos to the alarm notification service 110 via access point 112 and the Internet 115. The 110 alarm notification service then transmits the images/videos to the user's 108 device. The 110 alarm notification service is preferably configured to store (if the user has paid the required subscription fee) the images/videos captured in this way.

Each of the 406 and 406' video cameras can, in effect, be a "standard" video camera (to keep costs down) that includes only one transceiver. This transceiver may support Wi-Fi but not a secondary, low-bandwidth channel. In such a case, the doorbell camera device, acting as the security monitoring station's system controller, must communicate with and receive communications from the cameras solely via Wi-Fi, i.e., using the first 204 transceiver (either directly or through a backend-to-backend integration). However, it is preferable that the 406 and 406' video cameras support both Wi-Fi and a second channel relevant for communication with the doorbell camera device's second 206 transceiver. Ideally, this functionality is provided by including a second transceiver in each camera.

The user's device can also be programmed with a companion application that allows the user to send instructions to the doorbell video camera device (which functions as a security surveillance system controller) to trigger the selected video cameras, so that the user can "check" the status of the house while away, and also to arm/disarm the alarm system. Images and video from cameras 406 and 406' are primarily transmitted via Wi-Fi between cameras 406 and 406' and the doorbell video camera device 100. Therefore, these images and video will be received by the first transceiver 204, which is also used for subsequent transmission to access point 112. However, in some implementations, the system may also be configured to send lower resolution images and/or lower frame rate video using the low-bandwidth channel (e.g., 868MHz) received by the second transceiver. This serves as a backup in case the higher bandwidth channel (e.g., Wi-Fi) becomes unavailable. The doorbell video camera device's processor is configured to subsequently transmit the first image/video received and then the corresponding higher resolution/higher frame rate image/video if it arrives.

Similarly, it is preferable that alerts be provided to the alarm notification service 110 (and subsequently to the user device 108) regarding alerts received from other alarm peripherals, such as motion-activated cameras 406, 406', and the window contact sensor (which may also function as a window shock sensor) 408 that is associated with a window 410. Likewise, a tamper alert received from the door lock as a result of, for example, an attempt to separate the lock 106 from the door 240 or as a result of the lock's magnetometer detecting the door being opened when the lock has not been unlocked, or the detection of a tampering event (such as an attempt to force the lock or other attack on the lock) can be detected and reported by the accelerometer 275 of the smart lock, processed by the processor 200 of the doorbell video camera device, and thus reported. The user is notified via the 110 alarm notification service. Event notifications from alarm peripherals are generally provided through a low-bandwidth channel for reception by the second transceiver 206 of the video intercom. This is because most simpler peripherals (e.g., door contacts, motion sensors, shock sensors) do not require a high-bandwidth channel (e.g., they don't require something like Wi-Fi), but they do need to be low-cost and have a very long battery life. Therefore, each of these will generally contain a single transceiver, configured for communication with the second transceiver 206. As already mentioned, alarm peripherals in the form of video cameras benefit from the provision of a high-bandwidth channel, such as Wi-Fi, because the timely transmission of good-quality video images (in color, with high resolution and an acceptable frame rate) requires a fairly high bandwidth. Video cameras will almost always include a Wi-Fi transceiver and, consequently, will almost always be primarily powered by mains electricity (but with battery backup). Although the Wi-Fi transceiver could be used for transmitting event notification signals, which would be received by the doorbell camera device via the first transceiver 204, it is preferable (budget permitting) to provide video cameras that can report events using a low-bandwidth channel (for reception by the second transceiver 206) and that preferably include an additional transceiver to enable this (although, of course, a single multifunction transceiver could be used instead). By providing the video camera peripherals with both narrowband and broadband communication capabilities, we make upgrading from a system like the one in Figure 4 to the improved system in Figure 5, as described later, easier and more convenient, and also make it more energy efficient.

The doorbell video camera's ability to detect presence (for example, using a PIR sensor and/or radar, or using the camera itself) allows the video doorbell to function as an alarm peripheral for the system. Thus, when the system is armed, the video doorbell can transmit an alert just as another alarm peripheral would. While this may only be appropriate in certain circumstances (especially those dictated by the likelihood of false alarms caused by "safe" actors), it is a potentially valuable option.

The 200 processor of the doorbell 100 video camera device, in its capacity as the controller of the security surveillance system, is also configured to check the status of peripherals, including the quality of the communication channel, the battery status of peripherals, etc.

It is envisaged that the doorbell video camera device with the functionality of a security surveillance system controller, in addition to being adapted to existing homes, will also be installed in newly constructed homes, preferably together with the smart lock as described with reference to figure 2, together with at least one alarm peripheral, preferably in the form of a video camera with motion detection, such as 406, 406', and preferably another alarm peripheral in the form of a door contact to detect the status (open or closed) of the back door (or other secondary access door of the premises). This system could be installed at a relatively low cost, and the 106 lock and its 270 door magnet could, for example, be factory-installed—or at least the door could be factory-prepared for on-site installation of the 106 lock and 270 door magnet. The first occupant of the dwelling would then benefit from the enhanced security of a professionally installed alarm, albeit with a subset of all the possible features of such a system, and in particular without professional monitoring. The design and configuration of the doorbell camera and alarm peripherals—including the 106 smart lock—are such that, once a usage-based security monitoring system, such as the one schematically illustrated in Figure 4, is installed, upgrading the system to include professional monitoring by means of a remote alarm receiving center (RAC) can be done quite easily. Of course, this improvement may also be attractive to an occupant who has already installed a system like the one shown in Figure 4. This upgrade will then be analyzed with reference to Figure 5.

Figure 5 generally corresponds to Figure 4, as it is based on the assumption that a system like the one illustrated in Figure 4 has been enhanced to include the advantages of professional monitoring by means of a remote alarm receiving station 502. The security monitoring system 500 differs from the system 400 in Figure 4 in that it includes a separate alarm control unit 504 that is configured to control the security monitoring system 500, rather than relying on the doorbell video camera device to act as the controller. The doorbell video camera device 506 of the system 500 can be, and preferably is, the doorbell video camera device 100 that controlled the system 400, but with its processor reconfigured (for example, by appropriate reprogramming or system updates) to function (at least in part) as a peripheral device that reports to the alarm control unit 504 instead of continuing to act as the controller of the system 400.

This disclosure therefore contemplates an initial installation comprising a doorbell video camera device as described above, functioning as the controller of a security surveillance system that preferably includes a lock, such as the lock described above with reference to Figures 2 or 3, and at least one other installed alarm peripheral comprising a door/window contact for detecting the status of a door or window, or a standalone motion-activated video camera, the alarm peripheral including a transceiver for communication with the first transceiver of the doorbell video camera device. And this disclosure further contemplates a procedure comprising upgrading the initial installation by introducing a standalone alarm control unit 504 configured to control the security surveillance system 500, and reconfiguring the doorbell video camera device so that its processor is reconfigured to function (at least in part) as a peripheral that reports to the alarm control unit 504 instead of continuing to act as the controller of the system 400. Once the system is upgraded, the doorbell video camera device can act as the system control interface, so that a user (e.g., an occupant) can send arm/disarm and lock/unlock commands from it that are received and executed by the standalone alarm control unit 504.

The alarm control unit 504 includes, like the doorbell video camera device described with reference to Figure 2, a processor 510, which may be a microcontroller, with an associated memory 512 that stores program instructions ("software") which, when executed by the processor 510, control the operation of the alarm control unit 504 and the security monitoring system 500. At least one pair of transceivers 514, 516 is provided. One of the transceivers 514 supports Wi-Fi communication, and the alarm control unit is configured to function as an access point for a Wi-Fi network (which has a first SSID dedicated to the security monitoring system) that can operate in parallel with another Wi-Fi network (which has a second SSID) that can support "home Wi-Fi needs," such as video streaming services (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime, RTM), working from home, etc. The alarm control unit 504 is configured to receive video signals from video cameras 406 and 406' using the first transceiver 514. The second transceiver 516 supports a lower bandwidth channel that allows the transmission of control signals and event alerts from alarm peripherals such as the doorbell video camera device 506, the smart lock 106, video cameras 406 and 406' (if they have the relevant functionality; otherwise, event alerts, etc., are received via Wi-Fi), door/window contacts such as 402 and 408, etc. Typically, the lower bandwidth channel(s) can be provided using a suitable frequency allocated in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands, such as 868 MHz (in Europe). Preferably, communications on the lower bandwidth channel(s) are encrypted. The primary reason for using a low-bandwidth transmission channel is to enable the use of low-power transceivers (in the alarm peripherals) (specifically, lower power consumption than the high-power Wi-Fi transceivers), so that battery-powered alarm peripherals can achieve the minimum required battery life of 3 to 5 years. The 514 and 516 transceivers are coupled to a suitable antenna array (not shown) that typically comprises multiple independent antenna elements for the two 514 and 516 transceivers. One or both of the 514 and 516 transceivers may support other transmission bands/protocols, such as Bluetooth (RTM) or BLE, etc. Preferably, at least one transceiver is provided that is configured or can be configured to communicate using 4G or 5G (or using any other suitable PLMN data protocol) to communicate with the ARC 502, for example, in the event of a loss of power to the premises or loss of the wired Internet connection 115, for example, as a result of the deliberate action of a criminal.

The 504 alarm control unit is preferably configured to operate in at least one "armed away" mode, in which the perimeter security of the premises is monitored by door and window sensors, such as the 402 door sensor, the 106 smart lock, and the 408 window sensors, and in which at least one presence sensor monitors the interior of the premises. For example, the internal presence sensor can be a passive infrared sensor, which may or may not be associated with a video camera. Alternatively, internal presence can be detected using Wi-Fi detection, in which the alarm control unit runs a Wi-Fi detection algorithm and the doorbell video camera and/or another static Wi-Fi node (or access point) acts as an illuminator for Wi-Fi detection. The alarm control unit 504 is also preferably configured to operate in a disabled mode in which internal presence is not monitored and alert signals received from door and window sensors are largely ignored by the alarm control unit 504. However, the alarm control unit 504 is preferably configured to respond to tamper signals from, for example, lock 106, or other alarm peripherals, even in disabled mode – because criminals and other intruders can exploit the disabled state to attempt to sabotage or disable peripherals and other components of the 500 system. The alarm control unit 504 is also preferably configured to operate in at least one "home armed" mode, in which internal presence is generally not monitored (or at least alerts received regarding detected presence are ignored by the alarm control unit 504), but in which the security of the perimeter or part of the perimeter is monitored, so that Signals of events regarding detected door and window openings are alerted and possibly also reported as alarm events (optionally after allowing time for an on-site user to mark the detected event as a false alarm, for example by entering a security code in a user interface, or by presenting a dongle, identifier or mobile phone, for example in an NFC interface).

The alarm control unit 504 is operationally coupled to a remote Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) 502, preferably via both a wired connection (e.g., broadband) and one or more wireless connections (e.g., SigFox (RTM), PLMN using, for example, GPRS, LTE, 4G, or 5G). Alerts received by the alarm control unit 504 that match the profile of possible "alarm events" (based on one or more of the sensor's identity, the nature of the alert, the armed status of the alarm system 500, the time of day, the day of the week, etc.) are communicated to the ARC 502 along with the identity of the alarm system 500. If the alert is associated with images or video, for example, because the activated sensor was a camera or was associated with a camera, then the images/video can also be sent to the ARC. Typically, human operators at the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) will review the reported event and attempt to verify that it is an actionable alarm event, based, for example, on the content of images/videos, sounds received from the premises microphones, or interactions with an on-site user (e.g., via a user interface at the monitored premises). If a reported event is verified as an actionable event (e.g., a burglary, fire, etc., or a medical emergency), an alert is issued to the local police and/or other emergency response personnel/services (e.g., fire brigade, paramedics, etc.). In addition, the ARC may contact a registered user or other human contact (family member, support person, caregiver, etc.) by sending a push notification (or other type of notification) to a user device, for example, using a technique like the one described above.

In a system like the one illustrated in Figure 4, the doorbell video camera device 506 communicates events to the alarm control unit 504 and receives control signals from it, preferably using a low-bandwidth channel through the second transceiver 516. The higher bandwidth of a Wi-Fi channel, provided by the first transceiver, is preferably used for transmitting images/videos from the doorbell video camera device to the control unit 504, with the control unit transmitting the images/videos to the CRA 502 and, optionally, to a user device such as 108 through a backend service 110 that sends push notifications to the user's personal communication device 108 when the doorbell is pressed (or optionally when someone approaches the doorbell 100). To support these communications, the control unit 504 can use its broadband connection 114 to the Internet 115, and the backend service 110 sends push notifications to a public land mobile network (PLMN) 116, through which the notifications are delivered to the user's personal communication device 108. The same communication path can be used to transmit live video (and audio) from the doorbell video camera device 100 to the user. A reverse communication path is also supported to allow the user to speak to a person at the doorbell 100, and also to allow the user to activate (i.e., release) the lock 106 to enable the person at the door to open door 102. The signals to activate (release) the lock are transmitted to the lock 106 via the control unit 504, which communicates with the lock 106.

The video camera, processor, and software of the doorbell video camera device are preferably configured to capture and transmit (on demand, or as needed) Full HD video (e.g., 1080p).

The system controller, whether provided by the doorbell camera device 100 or the alarm control unit 504, is preferably configured to respond to the entry of a "duress code" on the doorbell camera device's keypad by alerting the central monitoring station 502, if the controller is the control unit 504, or by alerting designated individuals via calls (e.g., SIP calls) or notifications, preferably in each case providing images or video captured at the moment the duress code was entered (and perhaps from 30 seconds or more prior to the entry of the duress code). A duress code is a code (e.g., a PIN) that can be used to disable the security surveillance system, or to gain access to the premises, or both, but is in addition to a "normal" access code. The idea is that, under normal circumstances, a normal code will be used, and the use of such a code does not trigger any special notification. However, if a user feels threatened (for example, by an abusive partner or ex-partner, a burglar, or some other type of criminal) and is forced to enter the protected premises, the user enters the duress code instead of the normal code, thus indicating a duress situation. Upon receiving a duress alert, the CRA operators can contact the police or other security personnel to enable intervention. Similarly, if a friend, neighbor, or family member receives the duress alert (for example, if the doorbell camera device acts as a security surveillance system controller), that person can intervene or involve the police.

The system controller, whether provided by the doorbell video camera device 100 or by the alarm control unit 404, is preferably configured to allow access to the protected premises (e.g., by unlocking the lock 106 and disarming the system or by ignoring, at least temporarily, an open door signal with respect to the relevant access door) based on facial identification, i.e., recognizing a visitor's face as corresponding to the face of a stored identity (the controller stores, or has access to, a facial recognition data store for one or more known identities to whom access is to be granted).

The system controller, whether provided by the doorbell video camera device 100 or the alarm control unit 504, is preferably configured to allow access to protected premises (e.g., by unlocking lock 106 and disarming the system or by ignoring, at least temporarily, an open door signal with respect to the relevant access door) based on the recognition of a QR code, for example, a dynamic QR code, presented to the doorbell video camera device—for example, by a visitor (or occupant) displaying a QR code on the screen of a phone or other wearable device (such as a smartwatch). Preferably, any QR code generated by or in association with the system (e.g., by a relevant back-end system or by the user's doorbell video camera device or system application) has a limited lifespan of 24 hours or less (shorter lifespans, e.g., 12 hours, 6 hours, 4 hours, can also be used) to enhance system security.

Condominium variant

In condominiums and other residential complexes where multiple dwelling units are accessed through a common area protected from unauthorized access by a locked common entrance, it is not uncommon for each dwelling unit to have an intercom terminal connected to a shared intercom unit located on the unsecured side of the common entrance. Often, these intercom systems are equipped with video so that a resident can see a visitor's face at the common entrance before deciding whether to admit them. If the visitor is admitted, the resident activates a control, such as pressing a button, on their intercom unit, which releases the lock on the secure common door, allowing the visitor access to the protected common area (e.g., the lobby or reception area). The visitor will then, of course, arrive at the entrance of their dwelling unit, where they may need to ring the unit's doorbell if the resident is not already waiting with the unit door open. In this case, even if a resident installs a video doorbell device and a smart lock on the entrance door of their individual residential unit, the resident cannot grant a visitor remote access to the unit unless the visitor is able to bypass the security of the secure communal entrance. It should be noted that it is generally not possible for individual residents to add additional hardware or equipment to the communal entrance, and therefore it is not possible for a user to add their own video doorbell device to the secure communal entrance.

In one respect, this disclosure offers a solution to this problem by providing an adapter in the intercom unit of a residential unit for the secured communal entrance. The adapter is coupled to both the intercom unit and the controller of a doorbell video camera device in the residential unit, or to a controller of a security surveillance system in the residential unit. The controller is configured to both activate a smart lock on the entrance door of the residential unit and communicate with a user terminal, such as a smartphone, through which a user can remotely activate the lock to grant the visitor access to the residential unit. The adapter in the intercom unit of the residential unit allows a user to unlock the communal entrance lock, even when the user is away from home, and preferably also allows a remote user to see and speak with visitors at the secured communal entrance. Ideally, the adapter includes an RF transceiver for communication with the controller (using, for example, a narrowband transceiver from the controller, such as 868MHz or similar, although a widerband transmission channel, such as Wi-Fi, is also possible). Since intercom units are typically mains-powered, the intercom adapter should have a power supply ready. And since security surveillance system controllers are also typically mains-powered, the higher power consumption inherent in using Wi-Fi instead of a low-bandwidth protocol (such as a low-bandwidth 868MHz channel) should not be an issue.

The same approach can also be used to allow a resident to grant a visitor access to a secure space—such as a back garden—protected by a lockable entrance, like a gate or fence, equipped with a smart lock and an intercom that connects to an intercom unit inside the residence. By adding an adapter between the internal intercom unit and the controller of a doorbell camera device in the residential unit, a user away from home can speak to and see a visitor at the lockable entrance (e.g., the garden gate) and remotely activate the lock to grant the visitor access to the protected space (e.g., the back garden). This can be useful for deliveries or collections to be made in the protected (external) space while the resident is away, but it can also be useful for allowing a resident to grant access to a security guard for a gate inspection. Of course, this approach works equally well for any electrified gate or similar barrier.

It should be noted that smart garden gate locks are often not motorized, meaning the lock cannot be released remotely by pulling the latch. Instead, these locks are typically "clutched" locks, where a knob or handle engages the latch via an electrically controlled clutch. In the secure state, the clutch is set to disconnect the handle from the latch, allowing the handle or knob to be turned or moved without affecting the latch. However, the clutch can also be engaged to connect the handle and latch, meaning that rotating the knob or operating the handle allows the latch to engage and open the barrier (gate or fence). Such locks are also used on residential entrance doors, and this disclosure covers the activation of clutches in such locks, as well as the activation of motors in motorized locks, in all relevant embodiments of the invention.

Claims (27)

1. A doorbell video camera device comprising a camera capable of capturing video images, a first and a second RF transceiver, a processor coupled to the camera and the two RF transceivers, and a memory that stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to function as the controller of a residential premises security surveillance system, the security monitoring system having an on mode and an off mode, and which: Receive event notifications, via the first RF transceiver, from one or more remote alarm peripherals and, in armed mode, in response to receiving an event notification from one of the remote alarm peripherals, transmit an alert to a monitoring entity, the monitoring entity being located away from the premises, using the second RF transceiver; and, in both armed and disarmed modes, transmit via the second RF transceiver video images captured by the camera. 2. The doorbell video camera device of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to also function as a controller of an electronic control lock of a residential premises entrance door and to exchange messages with the lock using the first RF transceiver. 3. The doorbell video camera device of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to respond to the reception of a tamper message from the lock entrance door transmitting a tamper warning using the second RF transceiver. 4. The doorbell video camera device of claim 3, wherein, in response to receiving the tamper message, the processor is also configured to: transmit an instruction, using the first RF transceiver, to activate an independent video camera of the security surveillance system to cause the independent video camera to transmit the captured video for reception via the second RF transceiver; and the processor is also configured to transmit the captured video received through the second RF transceiver. 5. The doorbell video camera device of claim 3, wherein the processor is further configured to receive event alerts, via the second RF transceiver, from the independent video camera and, in the activated mode, in response to receiving an event alert from the independent video camera, transmit an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver. 6. The video doorbell device of any of claims 2 to 5 in combination with an electronically controlled lock mounted on the entrance door of the residential premises, the lock including an RF lock transceiver configured to communicate with the first RF transceiver of the video doorbell device, and the video doorbell device is mounted on an exterior surface of the residential premises adjacent to the entrance door. 7. The doorbell video camera device and lock combination of claim 6, wherein the doorbell video camera device is configured to transmit a command to the lock, using the first RF transceiver, to allow the entrance door of the premises to be opened. 8. The doorbell and lock video camera device combination of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the lock is configured to transmit a tamper signal, using the lock's RF transceiver, if the lock is removed from the door. 9. The doorbell and lock video camera device combination of claim 8, wherein the lock includes a magnetometer configured to detect the presence of one or more magnets located outside the lock but inside or attached to the door, the magnetometer generating the tamper signal as a result of increased separation between the magnetometer and the one or more magnets caused by the removal of the lock from the door. 10. The doorbell video camera and lock combination of claim 9, wherein the door is mounted in a frame, at least one magnet is associated with the frame to provide a magnetic field that is detected by a magnetometer in the lock to detect whether the door is open or closed, and the lock is configured to transmit door status alerts to the doorbell video camera device. 11. The doorbell and lock video camera device combination of any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the lock further comprises an accelerometer configured to function as a shock sensor, a lock processor and the accelerometer functioning together as a shock detector to generate a lock tamper signal in the event of an attempt to force or interfere with the lock, wherein the lock is configured to transmit any lock tamper signal using the lock's RF transceiver. 12. The doorbell video camera device and lock combination of any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the lock includes an audio output device, and the doorbell video camera device is configured to respond to the reception of a bell activation event by transmitting, using the first RF transceiver, a bell signal to cause the lock to produce a bell sound using the audio output device. 13. The doorbell video camera device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the memory also stores additional instructions for an alternative mode of operation in which the doorbell video camera device itself functions as a peripheral of a standalone controller of a security surveillance system, the additional instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the processor to: exchange messages with the independent controller using the first RF transceiver, and transmit the video images captured by the camera to the independent controller via the second RF transceiver. 14. The doorbell video camera device of claim 13, wherein the processor is configured in the alternate operating mode to respond to the reception of a doorbell triggering event by transmitting, using the first transceiver, a doorbell signal to the independent controller to cause an audio output device of the security surveillance system to produce a doorbell sound with respect to the doorbell triggering event. 15. A premises security surveillance system installation comprising a doorbell video camera device and a lock combination of any one of claims 6 to 12 in combination with an installed alarm peripheral, comprising a dwelling door/window contact for detecting the status of a door or window, or a motion-activated video camera that is independent of the doorbell video camera device, the alarm peripheral including an RF transceiver for communication with the first RF transceiver of the doorbell video camera device. 16. A method for improving a premises security surveillance system installation that includes one or more alarm peripherals and a doorbell video camera device as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising: reconfigure the doorbell video camera device so that its processor stops functioning as the controller of the premises security surveillance system; provide an independent controller for the premises security surveillance system; Configure the doorbell video camera device to function as a standalone controller peripheral; and Register the alarm peripherals of the premises security surveillance system with the independent system controller. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the reconfiguration of the doorbell video camera device comprises storing additional instructions in memory, the additional instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the processor to: exchange messages with the independent controller using the first RF transceiver, and transmit the video images captured by the camera to the independent controller via the second RF transceiver. 18. A method for operating a doorbell video camera device, the device comprising a camera capable of capturing video images, a first and a second RF transceiver, a processor coupled to the camera and the two RF transceivers, and a memory that stores instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to function as the controller of a premises security surveillance system with an on mode and an off mode, the method comprising: receive event notifications, through the first RF transceiver, from one or more alarm peripherals; in the activated mode, in response to the receipt of an event notification from one of the alarm peripherals, transmit an alert to a remote monitoring entity using the second RF transceiver, the monitoring entity being located away from the premises; and, in both the activated and deactivated modes, transmit, through the second RF transceiver, the video images captured by the camera. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising, in the activated mode, receiving an event notification, via the second RF transceiver, from a video camera independent of the premises security surveillance system, and in response transmitting an alert to the remote surveillance entity using the second RF transceiver. 20. A kit of parts that includes: a doorbell video camera device according to claim 1; and an electronically controlled door lock, including the lock and an RF lock transceiver for communication with the first RF transceiver of the doorbell video camera device. 21. The kit of parts of claim 20, wherein the electronic control lock includes a magnetometer that is configured to detect the presence of one or more magnets located outside the lock but inside a door of the premises entrance on which the lock is mounted, the magnetometer generating the tamper signal as a result of a greater separation, between the magnetometer and the one or more magnets, caused by the removal of the lock from the door of the premises entrance. 22. The kit of parts of claim 20 or 21, wherein a lock magnetometer is coupled to a lock processor and is configured to detect a magnetic field from a magnet associated with a door frame receiving a door at the entrance of the premises on which the lock is mounted, the lock processor being configured to detect a door state based on whether the door at the entrance of the premises is open or closed, the door state being derived from the signals received from the coupled magnetometer, and the lock being configured to transmit door state alerts to the doorbell video camera device. 23. The kit of parts of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the lock further comprises an accelerometer configured to function as a shock sensor, a lock processor and the accelerometer functioning together as a shock detector to generate a tamper signal in the event of an attempt to force or interfere with the lock, wherein the lock is configured to transmit any tamper signal using the lock transceiver. 24. The parts kit of claim 23, wherein the lock processor and the accelerometer work together as a shock detector to generate an alert signal in the event of an attempt to force the door open, and the processor is configured to transmit the alert signal using the lock transceiver. 25. The kit of parts of any one of claims 21 to 24, dependent on claim 21, wherein the lock is pre-installed on the door before the door is installed in a building. 26. The kit of parts of any one of claims 22 to 25, dependent on claim 21, wherein the door incorporates one or more magnets provided for tamper detection. 27. The kit of parts of claim 25 or claim 26, dependent on claim 22, wherein the door is pre-installed in the frame before the door and frame are installed in a building, the frame including the magnet provided for deriving information on the status of the door.