Connected knife block

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer-storage media, for an electronic knife holder. In some implementations, the electronic knife holder includes a microprocessor, a base member that has a first exterior surface containing multiple slots, a lock, and sensors corresponding to the multiple slots. Each of the multiple slots defines an interior space of the base member and is configured to receive a knife blade. When the lock is placed in a locked position, the lock locks one or more knives placed in one of the multiple slots. The sensors are configured to detect if a knife is present in one of the multiple slots.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present specification relates to knife blocks.

BACKGROUND

Knife blocks are typically used in residential and commercial settings to hold kitchen knives.

SUMMARY

In some implementations, a knife block includes a locking mechanism that is capable of locking knives that are present in the knife block in place to prevent removal. The knife block may also include a number of sensors capable of detecting the presences of knives in the knife block. The knife block may also include a number of other sensors capable of detecting if the knives present in the knife block are dull.

In some implementations, a knife block is capable of communicating with a security system of a property. The security system receives data collected from one or more sensing devices including, for example, the knife block itself, and uses the collected data to automatically determine if a state of the knife block should be changed. If a state of the knife block is determined to be changed, the security system sends instructions to the knife block to effectuate the state change.

In some implementations, a state change of the knife block includes changing the knife block from an unlocked state to a locked state so that one or more knives in the knife block are locked in place, or changing the knife block from a locked state to an unlocked state so that one or more knives in the knife block are removable. A state change of the knife block may also include turning on an onboard camera to initiate the capture and/or streaming of image data, or turning off an onboard camera to end the capture and/or streaming of image data.

In some implementations, an authorized user instructs a state change through an application, such as a mobile application, on a computing device.

In some implementations, the security system provides notifications corresponding to the knife block to a computing device of an authorized user, e.g., through a mobile application. The notifications may indicate a state change of the knife block, a removal of one or more knives, an identity of a user removing or attempting to remove a knife, and/or an indication that one or more knives are dull. The notifications may request input from the authorized user, such as an acknowledgment.

In some implementations, the knife block is capable of collecting and sending sensor data to the security system. This sensor data may include image data that indicates one or more users interacting with the knife block, acceleration data that indicates whether a user attempted to remove a locked knife, and touch or proximity data collected from one or more sensors that indicates the presence of a knife in the knife block and/or the sharpness of a knife in the knife block.

In one general aspect, an electronic knife holder includes: a microprocessor; a base member having a first exterior surface that contains multiple slots, each of the multiple slots defining an interior space of the base member and configured to receive a knife blade; a lock that, when placed in a locked state, locks one or more knives placed in one or more of the multiple slots, the lock preventing the one or more knives from being removed from the base member; and sensors corresponding to the multiple slots, the sensors configured to detect if a knife is present in one or more of the multiple slots, where the sensors are electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

Implementations include one or more of the following features. For example, in some implementations, the lock is located in a housing that is coupled to a second surface of the base member.

In some implementations, the lock is housed in the base member.

In some implementations, the base member includes an interior channel that passes through at least a subset of the multiple slots; and the lock includes: a bolt; and an actuator that is configured to move the bolt through the interior channel to lock or unlock one or more knives placed in the subset of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the sensors include, for each of the slots, a sensor disposed in the first exterior surface of the base member adjacent to a corresponding slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the sensors include, for each of the slots, one or more sensors coupled to an interior surface of the base member in a corresponding slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the sensors include a proximity sensor configured to detect if a knife is present in one or more of the multiple slots by detecting when a knife having a permanent magnet coupled to the knife or embedded in the knife is brought within a detection range of the proximity sensor.

In some implementations, the proximity sensor is a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect if a knife is present in one or more of the multiple slots by detecting when a knife having a permanent magnet coupled to the knife or embedded in the knife is brought within a detection range of the Hall Effect sensor.

In some implementations, the sensors include a contact sensor configured to detect if a knife is present in one or more of the multiple slots by coming into contact with one or more surfaces of a knife inserted into one of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the electronic knife holder includes a transceiver electronically coupled to the microprocessor, where the microprocessor is configured to: wirelessly send data using the transceiver to a remote computing system, the data including at least one of the following: data indicating that a knife has been removed from one of the multiple slots; data indicating that a knife has been placed in one of the slots; data indicating that the lock is in a locked state; data indicating that the lock is in an unlocked state; or sensor data, or wirelessly receive data using the transceiver from the remote computing system, the data including at least one of the following: instructions to lock the lock; instructions to unlock the lock; a request for a state of the lock; a request for data indicating a number of knives removed from the electronic knife holder; a request for data indicating the slots of the multiple slots that have knives placed in them; or a request for sensor data.

In some implementations, the sensors include a camera disposed in the exterior surface of the base member, where the camera is configured to capture image data of an area in which the electronic knife holder is located.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: process the image data captured using the camera; perform facial recognition using the processed image data; and perform one or more of the following: modify a state of the lock to unlock the lock if results of facial recognition indicate a user is recognized and if the recognized user is determined to be permitted to retrieve a knife; modify a state of the lock to lock the lock if results of facial recognition indicate a user is not recognized; and modify a state of the lock to lock the lock if results of facial recognition indicate a user is recognized and if the recognized user is determined to not be permitted to retrieve a knife.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: transmit image data captured using the camera to a remote computing device; receive, from the remote computing device, data indicating that (i) a user is recognized from the image data and (ii) the user is permitted to retrieve a knife from the electronic knife holder; and modify a state of the lock to unlock the lock to allow the user to retrieve a knife from a slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: transmit image data captured using the camera to a remote computing device; receive, from the remote computing device, data indicating that (i) a user is recognized from the image data and (ii) the user is not permitted to retrieve a knife from the electronic knife holder; and modify a state of the lock to lock the lock to prevent the user from retrieving a knife from a slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: transmit image data captured using the camera to a remote computing device; receive, from the remote computing device, data indicating that a user is not recognized from the image data; and modify a state of the lock to lock the lock to prevent the user from retrieving a knife from a slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the microprocessor or processor is configured to turn on the camera and instruct the camera to capture the image data in response to receiving sensor data from at least one of the sensors indicating that a knife has been removed or partially removed from a slot of the multiple slots.

In some implementations, the microprocessor or processor is configured to turn on the camera and instruct the camera to capture the image data in response to receiving sensor data from at least one of the sensors indicating that movement has been detected in a vicinity of the electronic knife holder.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to receive instructions to lock the lock based on one or more of the following: time of day; users in a property where the electronic knife holder is located; users in a vicinity of the electronic knife holder; a schedule; a mode of a security system in a property where the electronic knife holder is located; or a detected security event.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: receive first sensor data; determine that a knife is present in one of the multiple slots of the electronic knife holder based on the first sensor data; receive second sensor data; determine that the knife is dull based on the second sensor data; actuate a lock that locks the knife into the electronic knife holder; and send a notification indicating at least one of that the knife is dull or that the knife has been locked.

In some implementations, the microprocessor is configured to: receive sensor data; in response to the sensor data, turn on a camera of the electronic knife holder; capture image data using the camera; based on the image data, determine that a person in view of the camera is either unknown or is unauthorized to remove a knife; actuate a lock that locks the knife into the knife holder; and send a notification indicating at least on of that an unknown person attempted to remove the knife, that an unauthorized person attempted to remove the knife, or that the knife has been locked.

Other embodiments of these and other aspects disclosed herein include corresponding methods for using electronic knife holder, systems that include the electronic knife holder, and computer programs encoded on computer storage devices, configured to perform the actions of the methods for using the electronic knife holder. A system of one or more computers can be so configured by virtue of software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that, in operation, cause the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs can be so configured by virtue having instructions that, when executed by a data processing apparatus such as the electronic knife h older, cause the apparatus to perform the actions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A security system of a property may be integrated with numerous security sensors and equipment. These sensors and equipment can be used to monitor all or a portion of a property, and include a connected knife block. The security system can leverage one or more machine learning models to analyze data collected by the sensors and equipment, e.g., to identify persons in the property who have removed a knife from the knife block or attempted to remove a knife from the knife block. The security system can receive data from the knife block that indicates a current state of the knife block, persons who have removed a knife from the knife block or attempted to remove a knife from the knife block, the presence of one or more knives in the knife block, the sharpness of one or more knives in the knife block, a state of charge of a battery of the knife block, etc. Based on the collected data and/or the outputs of the one or more machine learning models, the security system may determine one or more actions to perform. These actions may include, for example, to change the state of the knife block, and/or to generate and send a notification to an authorized user (e.g., an occupant or owner of the property).

The knife block includes a locking mechanism that is capable locking knives that are present in the knife block in place to prevent removal. The knife block may also include a number of sensors capable of detecting the presences of knives in the knife block. The knife block may also include a number of other sensors capable of detecting if the knives present in the knife block are dull. Additionally, the knife block may also include a camera to capture faces of persons who have removed knives from the knife block or have attempted to remove knives from the knife block.

The one or more machine learning models can be updated using input from one or more authorized users. The input may be requested by the security system. The input may be entered by an authorized user through an application on a computing device.

FIG. 1is a diagram showing an example security system100with a connected knife block110. The system100includes a control unit102, a monitoring server130, security equipment104, and security sensors106. The equipment104and sensors106are installed at a property150. Various components of the system100may communicate over a network140.

The control unit102may include one or more computing devices. The control unit102may communicate with equipment104and sensors106through a wired and/or wireless connection. The control unit102may receive equipment and sensor output information from the equipment104and the sensors106, respectively. The control unit102can communicate with the monitoring server130over the network140. The control unit102may communicate with a computing device132of an authorized user134, such as occupants of the property150in which the equipment104and the sensors106are installed. The control unit102may leverage one or more machine learning models to, for example, identify persons in the property150, persons removing a knife from the knife block110or persons that have removed a knife from the knife block110, and/or persons that have attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110. The control unit102may send instructions to the knife block110, such as instructions to change a state of the knife block110from an unlocked state to a locked state.

The sensors106may include, for example, one or more visible-light cameras such as the cameras158aand158b, infrared-light cameras (IR cameras), magnetic sensors/contact sensors (e.g., that are installed on one or more doors and/or windows) such as door sensor156, motion detectors, temperature sensors, water sensors, accelerometers, Hall effect sensors, capacitive touch sensors, physical switches, inductive proximity sensors, etc.

The equipment104may include, for example, the knife block110, one or more security panels, electronic vehicle chargers, energy monitoring devices, smart plugs, thermostats, smart HVAC system, smoke detectors, CO detectors, energy meters, smart locks, garage door controllers, etc. One or more pieces of equipment104may integrate or utilize one or more sensors of the sensors106. For example, as will be discussed in more detail below, the knife block110includes a visible-light camera112.

The monitoring server130may include one or more computing devices. The monitoring server130may also include one or more data storage devices. The monitoring server130may communicate with the control unit102and/or the computing device132of the authorized user134. For example, the monitoring server130may receive sensor and/or equipment data from the control unit102. The monitoring server130may leverage one or more machine learning models to, for example, identify persons in the property150, persons removing a knife from the knife block110or persons that have removed a knife from the knife block110, and/or persons that have attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110. The monitoring server130may send instructions to the knife block110, such as instructions to change a state of the knife block110from an unlocked state to a locked state.

The network140can include public and/or private networks and can include the Internet.

The property150includes a front door154and a kitchen142where the knife block110is located. The property150may be a residential property such as a house. The property150may be a commercial property such as a restaurant.

The authorized user134may be an owner or occupant of the property150.

The computing device132may be, for example, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or the like.

The disclosed techniques can improve the safety for the occupants of a given property in a number of ways. For example, an authorized user can lock the knife block, e.g., in person or through an application on their computing device, to prevent others, e.g., kids, from removing knives and possibly cutting themselves. In addition, the knife block may automatically lock knife block when certain events occur or situations are detected. For example, the knife block itself or the security system may determine, e.g., based on image data obtained from a camera on the knife block, that an unauthorized user is attempting to remove a knife, and, in response, automatically lock the knife block. Accordingly, an unauthorized user such as a child or an unknown person, e.g., a guest or criminal, may be prevented from removing a knife from the knife block. As another example, the knife block itself or the security system may determine, e.g., based on sensor data obtained from sensors in the knife block, that one or more knives in the knife block are dull, and, in response, automatically lock the knife block to prevent the one or more dull knives from being removed. This is to help prevent many kitchen accidents that arise as a result of persons using dull knives.

FIGS. 2A through 2Dare diagrams showing examples of the connected knife block110. The connected knife block110is an electronic knife holder that includes one or more electronic components. These components are discussed in more detail below and may include a microprocessor, sensors such as proximity sensors and/or contact sensors, and a transceiver. The connected knife block110may use the transceiver to communicate with one or more remote computing systems. The connected knife block110may also include in some implementations LEDs, push buttons, or a display with corresponding GUI (e.g., LCD display, LED display, OLED display, etc.).

In general, as depicted inFIGS. 2A through 2D, the connected knife block110can include a base member160that has multiple surfaces162a-162e. The base member160may serve as a housing for one or more components of the connected knife block110. For example, the base member160may house the electronics, such as a microprocessor, a transceiver, and various wires for electrically coupling the microprocessor to the transceiver and to various sensors of the connected knife block110. Similarly, the base member160may include one or more cavities. These cavities may include, for example, cavities configured to receive one or more knives or one or more knife inserts (e.g., replicable plastic inserts that themselves include slots configured to receive one or more knives). Similarly, the base member160may house all or a portion of a lock used to lock one or more knives inserted into the connected knife block110.

The base member160may include a first surface162a. The first surface162amay be a face surface of the connected knife block110. This first surface162amay include one or more openings that are configured to receive knife inserts or knives directly. The base member160may include a second surface162b. The second surface162amay be a side surface of the connected knife block110. As described in more detail with respect toFIG. 3A, a housing330that houses a locking mechanism (e.g., a lock configured to lock one or more knives in the connected knife block110) may be connected to the second surface162bof the base member160. The base member160may include a third surface162c. The third surface162cmay be a side surface of the connected knife block110. As described in more detail with respect toFIG. 3A, the housing330that houses a locking mechanism (e.g., a lock configured to lock one or more knives in the connected knife block110) may be connected to the third surface162cof the base member160. The base member160may include a fourth surface162d. The fourth surface162dmay be a front or forward surface of the connected knife block110. The base member160may include a fifth surface162e. The fifth surface162emay be an interactive surface of the connected knife block110. As described below with respect toFIGS. 2A-2D, the fifth surface162emay have buttons or a display embedded in the fifth surface162ethat allow a user to interact with the connected knife block110.

The base member160of the connected knife block110may include one or more additional surfaces. For example, the base member160may include one or more rear surfaces.

Various components of the connected knife block110may be disposed in one or more of the surfaces162a-162eof the base member160, or otherwise coupled to the base member160. For example, the camera112may be disposed in the first surface162aof the connected knife block110adescribed in more detail below. Similarly, various sensors118a-118c(e.g., used to detect if a knife is present in various openings formed in the first surface162aof the base member160) may be disposed in the first surface162aof the connected knife block110a. The sensors118a-118cmay be secured using one or more layers of glue or resin. For example, the sensors118a-118cmay be embedded in epoxy resin placed in recesses of the first surface162a.

FIG. 2Ashows a first embodiment of the connected knife block110a. The knife block110aincludes the camera112, openings116a-116c(e.g., knife slots) that are formed in inserts114a-114crespectively, the sensors118a-118cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings116a-116crespectively, a keypad124, a lock/unlock button120, an unlocked indicator122a, and a locked indicator122b. The openings116a-116care each designed to receive a single knife.

The sensors118a-118cmay be magnetic/contact sensors that are each triggered when they come into contact with or close proximity to a magnet coupled to a corresponding knife. The sensors118a-118cmay be Hall effect sensors that each detect when a magnet coupled to a corresponding knife is in close proximity. The sensors118a-118cmay be inductive proximity sensors that each detect when the metal of a knife (such as the bolster of a knife) is in close proximity. When the sensors118a-118care inductive proximity sensors, the corresponding knives need not have magnets coupled to them.

The keypad124includes five buttons that allow a user to enter a code to, for example, change the state of the knife block from a locked state to an unlocked state. The code may be set by the authorized user134, e.g., upon initial setup of the knife block110aor through an application on their computing device132. The five buttons may each be labelled with and correspond to, for example, a number (e.g., numbers one through five) or a letter (e.g., letters A through E). In some implementations, the keypad124includes more than five buttons. In other implementations, the keypad124includes less than five buttons. The buttons of the keypad124may be physical buttons (e.g., mechanical switches, membrane switches, or the like). The buttons of the keypad124may be capacitive touch buttons.

The lock/unlock button120may be a physical buttons, e.g., a mechanical switch, a membrane switch, or the like. The lock/unlock button120may be a capacitive touch button. When a user presses the lock/unlock button120while the knife block is in an unlocked state, the knife block110awill change to a locked state, e.g., the knife block110awill actuate a locking mechanism to lock the knives that are present in the knife block110ain place. In some implementations, if no knives are present in the knife block110, the knife block110will not change to a locked state. In some implementations, a user will be prevented from using the lock/unlock button120to place the knife block110ain an unlocked state until the user has entered a particular code through the keypad124, or until the knife block110aor the system100has identified the user using image data obtained from the camera112or from one or more other cameras (e.g., the cameras158aand/or158bshown inFIG. 1) and determined that the user is an authorized user.

The unlocked indicator122aand the locked indicator122bmay each be an LED. The unlocked indicator122alights up when the knife block110ais in an unlocked state as shown. The locked indicator122blights up when the knife block110bis in a locked state.

The inserts114a-114cmay be made from a different material than the body of the knife block110a. For example, the inserts may be made out of plastic while the body of the knife block110ais made from wood. The inserts114a-114cmay be removable and may contain sensors, in addition to the sensors118a-118crespectively, as detailed in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E.

In some implementations, the knife block110does not include the inserts114a-114c. Instead, the knife block110the multiple openings (e.g., slots) of the knife block110may be configured to receive one or more knives instead of inserts. For example, the openings116a-116cmay be formed in the base member160of the knife block110.

In some implementations, the openings116a-116care the same as one another, e.g., they are each designed to receive the same knife or the same type of knife. In some implementations, the openings116a-116care each different from one another, e.g., they are each designed to receive a different knife or a different type of knife (e.g., to account for knives of different lengths, different depths, etc.).

FIG. 2Bshows a second embodiment of the connected knife block110b. The knife block110bincludes the camera112, the openings116a-116cthat are formed in the inserts114a-114crespectively, the sensors118a-118cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings116a-116crespectively, and a touchscreen display126.

The touchscreen display126may indicate the state of the knife block110b. For example, as shown, the touchscreen display126indicates that the “Knife Block is Unlocked.” The touchscreen display126may also indicate information associated with the knives of the knife block110b. For example, the touchscreen display126may indicate which knives are present (e.g., “Knives A, B, & C [corresponding to openings116a,116b, and116crespectively] are removed”), and/or may indicate which knives are dull.

A user may use the touchscreen display126to change the state of the knife block110b. For example, the touchscreen display126may display a digital keypad which a user may use to enter a code to unlock the knife block110b. The touchscreen display126may display a digital lock/unlock button which a user may use to lock and/or unlock the knife block110b. Alternatively, in some implementations, the knife block110bincludes the keypad124and/or the lock/unlock button120in addition a display. The display does not necessarily need to be a touchscreen display.

The touchscreen display126may be an LCD display. The touchscreen display126may be an LED display.

FIG. 2Cshows a third embodiment of the connected knife block110c. The knife block110cincludes the camera112, the openings116a-116cthat are formed in the inserts114a-114crespectively, the sensors118a-118cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings116a-116crespectively, the keypad124, the lock/unlock button120, the unlocked indicator122a, the locked indicator122b, and a sharpening block128. The knife block110cmay include the touchscreen display126shown inFIG. 2B, e.g., in place of the keypad124, the unlocked indicator122a, and the locked indicator122b.

The sharpening block128allows a user to sharpen knives including those that the knife block110cis designed to receive. The system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may monitor the user using the camera112on the knife block110cand/or using the cameras158a-158bto keep track of how often the knives of the knife block110care being sharpened. In some implementations, as will be discussed in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E, the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may use this information to estimate the sharpness of the knives of the knife block110c. The system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may monitor the user using the camera112on the knife block110cand/or using the cameras158a-158bto ensure that the user sharpens a knife that is determined to be dull.

For example, as will be described in more detail below with respect toFIG. 6F, the knife block110cmay be automatically locked, e.g., by the knife block110citself or by the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130), when it is determined that that one or more knives in the knife block110care dull, e.g., when sensor data indicates that the one or more knives in the knife block110care dull. The control unit102or the monitoring server130may notify the user that one or more knives are dull through a notification sent to a computing device of the user, and/or through a display on the knife block110c. The user may have to acknowledge the notification in order to unlock the knife block110c. Upon acknowledgement of the notification, e.g., through one or more touch inputs made through a computing device of the user or through a display of the knife block110c, the knife block110cis unlocked, allowing the user to remove the knives that are present in the knife block110c. Upon removal of the dull knife by the user, e.g., as indicated by one of the sensors118a-118c, the monitoring server130may instruct the knife block110c(e.g., through the control unit102) to turn on the camera112and to stream image data to the monitoring server130, and/or to the control unit102which, in turn, passes the image data to the monitoring server130. Based on the received image data, the monitoring server130determines whether or not the user is sharpening the dull knife using the sharpening block128.

If the monitoring server130determines that the user has not sharpened the dull knife using the sharpening block128(or using another sharpening block or device), the monitoring server130may generate and send a notification to a computing device of the user and/or send instructions to the knife block110cto present a notification on a display of the knife block110c. The notification may indicate that the user should immediately sharpen the knife or place it back in the knife block110c. If the user reinserts the dull knife in the knife block110cwithout sharpening it, the monitoring server130may send instructions to the knife block110cto lock the knife block110c.

FIG. 2Dshows a fourth embodiment of the connected knife block110d. The knife block110dincludes the camera112, the openings116a-116cthat are formed in the inserts114a-114crespectively, the sensors118a-118cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings116a-116crespectively, the keypad124, the lock/unlock button120, the unlocked indicator122a, the locked indicator122b, additional opening116d-gthat are formed in additional inserts114d-114grespectively, and additional sensors118d-118g. The knife block110dmay include the touchscreen display126shown inFIG. 2B, e.g., in place of the keypad124, the unlocked indicator122a, and the locked indicator122b. The openings116d-116gare each designed to receive a single knife.

As shown, the openings116d-116gmay be a different size than the openings116a-116c. For example, the openings116d-116gmay be smaller than the openings116a-116cand designed to receive smaller knives that the openings116a-116c.

In some implementations, the openings116d-116gare the same as one another, e.g., they are each designed to receive the same knife or the same type of knife. In some implementations, the openings116d-116gare each different from one another, e.g., they are each designed to receive a different knife or a different type of knife.

FIGS. 3A and 3Bare diagrams showing examples of a connected knife block310. In some implementations, the knife block310is the knife block110shown inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D.

FIG. 3Ashows the knife block310in an unlocked state. The knife block310includes a camera312, openings316a-316cthat are formed in inserts314a-314crespectively, sensors318a-318cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings316a-316crespectively, a keypad324, a lock/unlock button320, an unlocked indicator322a, a locked indicator322b, an actuator332within a housing330of the knife block310, and a telescoping bolt334ain a compact/unlocked position. The openings316a-316care each designed to receive a single knife.

The sensors318a-318cmay be magnetic/contact sensors that are each triggered when they come into contact with or close proximity to a magnet coupled to a corresponding knife. The sensors318a-318cmay be Hall effect sensors that each detect when a magnet coupled to a corresponding knife is in close proximity. The sensors318a-318cmay be inductive proximity sensors that each detect when the metal of a knife (such as the bolster of a knife) is in close proximity. When the sensors318a-318care inductive proximity sensors, the corresponding knives need not have magnets coupled to them. The sensors318a-318cmay be the sensors118a-118cshown inFIGS. 2A-2D.

As shown, the knife block310is currently in an unlocked state as indicated by unlocked indicator322aand by the bolt334abeing in a compact/unlocked position.

The knife block310may automatically revert to an unlocked state when all of the knives are removed as is the case inFIG. 3A. This may help to prevent a user from damaging or dulling a knife if they forget to unlock the knife block310before replacing the knife. Similarly, in some implementations, the knife block310will automatically be unlocked if the user is identified as an authorized user. For example, if the monitoring server130identifies a user approaching the knife block310as an authorized user based on image data collected from the camera312, then the monitoring server130may send instructions to the knife block310to unlock the knife block310before the user attempts to replace the knife. This may again help prevent knives from being damaged or dulled.

FIG. 3Bshows the knife block310in a locked state. The knife block310includes a camera312, openings316a-316cthat are formed in inserts314a-314crespectively, sensors318a-318cto detect the presence of a knife in the openings316a-316crespectively, a keypad324, a lock/unlock button320, an unlocked indicator322a, a locked indicator322b, an actuator332within a housing330of the knife block310, and a telescoping bolt334ain a compact/unlocked position. The openings316a-316care each designed to receive a single knife.

As shown, knives340a-340chave been placed in the openings316a-316crespectively. Also, the knife block310is currently in an unlocked state as indicated by unlocked indicator322aand by the bolt334abeing in a compact/unlocked position.

Locking of the knife block310may have been triggered automatically, e.g., by the monitoring server130sending instructions to the knife block310in response to the system100being armed, or manually, e.g., after the user has pressed the lock/unlock button320. In response to this triggering event, the actuator332causes the bolt334bto change from a compact/unlocked position as shown inFIG. 3Ato an extended/locked position. As shown, the bolt334btelescopes and passes through holes in each of the knives340a-340c, thereby locking them in the knife block310.

In some implementations, the knife block310uses one or more non-telescoping bolts to lock the knives340a-340cin place. For example, the knife block310may use a longer non-telescoping bolt that requires a wider housing330or the knife block310to have a wider body. As another example, the knife block310may use multiple non-telescoping bolts, e.g., a first non-telescoping bolt on the left side of the knife block310partially located in the housing330and a second non-telescoping bolt on the right side of the knife block310partially located in a second housing. The two non-telescoping bolts may be different in length such that, for example, the first non-telescoping bolt is capable of passing through and locking the knives340a-340band the second non-telescoping bolts is capable of passing through and locking the knife340c.

FIGS. 4A through 4Eare diagrams showing examples of the connected knife block410. In some implementations, the knife block410is the knife block110shown inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D. In some implementations, the knife block410is the knife block310shown inFIGS. 3A-3B.

FIG. 4Ashows a knife440abeing inserted into the knife block410a. The knife block410aincludes an insert414a, an opening416aformed in the insert414a, a sensor404awithin the opening416a, and a piece of material402a. The opening416amay be designed to receive the knife440a.

The knife440aincludes a blade that defines a passageway442. The passageway442allows the bolt334shown inFIGS. 3A-3Bto pass through the knife440awhen the knife block410areceives the knife440aand the knife block410ais placed in a locked state, thereby locking the knife440ainto place. As will be discussed in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 4B and 4D, in some implementations, the passageway442may be oval, elliptical, or stadium in shape (e.g., instead of circular) to allow the bolt334to pass through the knife440awhen the knife440acuts through the piece of material402aand when the knife440afails to cut through the piece of material402a. The oval, elliptical, or stadium shape of the passageway, like a circle, would also allow for the blade for the knife440ato maintain its structural integrity.

The knife440aalso optionally includes a magnet444that may interact with a sensor418. The sensor418may be one of the sensors118a-118cshown inFIGS. 2A-2D. The sensor418may be one the sensors318a-318cshown inFIGS. 3A-3B. The sensor418may be a magnetic/contact sensor that is triggered when it comes into contact with or close proximity to the magnet444of the knife440a. The sensor418may be a Hall effect sensor that detects when the magnet444of the knife440ais in close proximity. The sensor418may be an inductive proximity sensor that detects when the metal of the knife440a(such as the bolster of a knife) is in close proximity. When the sensor418-118cis an inductive proximity sensor, the knife440amay not have the magnet444.

The piece of material402amay be made from a synthetic or natural polymer such as rubber. The piece of material402amay be made from a self-healing material capable of recovering, to at least a certain extent, after it is cut, e.g., by the knife440a. The piece of material402amay be divided into two halves such that a first half of the piece of material402acomes into contact with substantially the left side of the knife440a's edge and/or blade, and a second half of the piece of material402acomes into contact with substantially the right side (not shown) of the knife440a's edge and/or blade. The material that forms the piece of material402aand/or the thickness of the piece of material402amay be selected such that the knife440ais capable of cutting or passing through the piece of material402aonly when it is sufficiently sharp. For example, the material that forms the piece of material402amay be selected due to having a certain coefficient of friction with respect to steel or stainless steel that, for a given thickness of the material, allows the knife440ato pass or cut through the piece of material402awhen it is sharp and prevents the knife440afrom passing or cutting through the piece of material402awhen it is dull.

The piece of material402amay be secured to the insert414a, e.g., by glue and/or by formations in the insert414a.

In some implementations, as will be discussed in more detail below with respect toFIG. 4E, the knife block410amay include additional pieces of material or one or more pieces of material placed at different positions within in the opening416ato, for example, assist in detecting the sharpness of other locations of the edge of the knife440a.

The sensor404amay be a switch, such as a mechanical switches or a membrane switch, that is physically actuated by the tip of the knife440aonce it passes or cuts through the piece of material402a. The sensor404amay be a touch sensor, such as a capacitive touch sensor, that detects when the tip of the knife440acomes into contact it after the knife440apasses or cuts through the piece of material402a. The sensor404amay be an inductive proximity sensor that is capable of detecting when the knife440acomes into close proximity, e.g., when the knife440ahas passed or cut through the piece of material402a.

The sensor404amay be secured to the insert414a, e.g., by glue and/or by formations in the insert414a.

In some implementations, as will be discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 4E, more than a single sensor may be used to detect the sharpness of the knife440a.

FIG. 4Bshows the knife440afully inserted into the knife block410a. As shown, the tip of the knife440ahas cut or passed through the piece of material402a, indicating that the knife440ais sufficiently sharp. The knife440ahas come into contact with or close proximity to the sensor404a, which may generate an output indicating the contact or close proximity.

FIG. 4Cshows a knife440bbeing inserted into the knife block410a. As depicted, the knife440bis dull.

FIG. 4Dshows the knife440binserted into the knife block410a. As shown, the tip of the knife440bhas not cut or passed through the piece of material402a, indicating that the knife440bis indeed dull. Accordingly, any output produced by the sensor404awould only indicate that the knife440bhas not contacted the sensor404aand/or has not come into close proximity of the sensor404a.

FIG. 4Eshows the knife440abeing inserted into a knife block410b. The knife block410bincludes an insert414b, an opening416bformed in the insert414b, sensors404b-404gwithin the opening416a, and a piece of material402b. The opening416bmay be designed to receive the knife440a.

The piece of material402bmay be made from a synthetic or natural polymer such as rubber. The piece of material402bmay be made from a self-healing material capable of recovering, to at least a certain extent, after it is cut, e.g., by the knife440a. The piece of material402bmay be divided into two halves such that a first half of the piece of material402bcomes into contact with substantially the left side of the knife440a's edge and/or blade, and a second half of the piece of material402bcomes into contact with substantially the right side (not shown) of the knife440a's edge and/or blade. The material that forms the piece of material402band/or the thickness of the piece of material402bmay be selected such that the knife440ais capable of cutting or passing through the piece of material402bonly when it is sufficiently sharp. For example, the material that forms the piece of material402bmay be selected due to having a certain coefficient of friction with respect to steel or stainless steel that, for a given thickness of the material, allows the knife440ato pass or cut through the piece of material402bwhen it is sharp and prevents the knife440afrom passing or cutting through the piece of material402bwhen it is dull.

The piece of material402bmay be secured to the insert414b, e.g., by glue and/or by formations in the insert414b.

The sensors404b-404gmay be switches, such as mechanical switches or a membrane switches, that are physically actuated by the edge of the knife440aonce it passes or cuts through the piece of material402b. The sensors404b-404gmay be touch sensors, such as capacitive touch sensors, that detect when the edge of the knife440acomes into contact them after the knife440apasses or cuts through the piece of material402b. The sensors404b-404gmay be inductive proximity sensors that are capable of detecting when the knife440acomes into close proximity, e.g., when the knife440ahas passed or cut through the piece of material402b. The sensors404b-404gmay be a combination of switches, touch sensors, and/or inductive proximity sensors.

The sensors404b-404gmay be secured to the insert414b, e.g., by glue and/or by formations in the insert414b.

In some implementations, the knife block410includes the piece of material402ato assist in detecting a sharpness of the edge of the knife440corresponding to the tip of the knife, and the piece of material402bto assist in detecting the sharpness of other parts of the edge of the knife440. The knife block410can include the sensors404a-404gfor detecting the sharpness of the edge of the knife440. The knife block410can include less or additional sensors for detecting the sharpness of the edge of the knife440.

In some implementations, the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) estimates the sharpness of the knife440without relying on the sensors404aand/or the sensors404b-404g, e.g., as may be the case if the knife block410does not contain the sensors404aand/or the sensors404b-404gfor detecting the sharpness of a knife or if one or more of the sensors404aand/or the sensors404b-404gfail. For example, in estimating the sharpness of the knife440, the monitoring server130may take into account the following: how often the knife440has been removed, e.g., using data from the sensor418and/or image data from the camera112, which can indicate how much use the knife440has received; how long the knife440ahas been removed for, e.g., by comparing times corresponding to when data from sensor418indicated the knife440was removed from the knife block410with times corresponding to when data from sensor418indicated that the knife440was replaced, which can again indicate how much use the knife440has received; the amount of time that has passed since the knife440was last sharpened, e.g., determined using image data collected from the cameras112and/or158a-158b; how often the knife440has been removed since it was last sharpened; how long the knife440has been removed for since it was last sharpened; and/or how long the knife440was sharpened for during one or more of its most recent sharpening sessions, e.g., determined using image data collected from the cameras112and/or158a-158b.

As another example, the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) can estimate the sharpness of the knife440awithout the sensors404aand/or the sensors404b-404gby determining whether the knife440passed or cut through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402busing the sensor418. For example, where the sensor418is able to detect proximity, the sensor418may provide outputs that correspond with a first range of values indicating the knife440is fully inserted into the knife block410, and, therefore, has cut or passed through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402b. The sensor418may also provide outputs that correspond with a second range values indicating the knife440is not fully inserted into the knife block410, and, therefore, has failed to cut or pass through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402b. Accordingly, the knife block410or the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may compare an output of the sensor418with the first range and/or second range of values. Based on this comparison, the knife block410or the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may determine that the knife440is sharp if the output of the sensor418is in the first range of values, or may determine that the knife440is dull if the output of the sensor418is in the second range of values.

In some implementations, the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) determines the sharpness of the knife440using the sensor404aand/or the sensors404b-404g, and proceeds to confirm the determined sharpness of the knife440using data other than that collected by the sensor404aand/or the sensors404b-404g. For example, the monitoring server130may determine based on data from the sensors404b-404gthat the knife440is sharp. The monitoring server130may then analyze data from sensor418, image data from the camera112, and/or image data from the camera158aand/or the camera158b. In analyzing this data, the monitoring server130may determine that the knife440was recently sharpened and that it has not been removed often or for long periods of time since being sharpened. Based on this determination, the monitoring server130confirms that the knife440is sharp and will not send instructions to the knife block410to lock the knife block410due to the dullness of the knife440.

Alternatively, in analyzing the data collected from the sensor418, the camera112, and/or the camera158aand/or the camera158b, the monitoring server130may determine that the knife440has not been recently sharpened, and/or has been removed often or for long periods of time since being sharpened. Based on this determination, the monitoring server130may overrule its earlier determination that the knife440is sharp based on the data from the sensors404b-404gand conclude that the knife440is dull. The monitoring server130may proceed to send instructions to the knife block410to lock the knife block410due to the dullness of the knife440, and/or generate and send a notification to the computing device132of the authorized user134indicating that the knife440is dull.

In some implementations, the knife block410includes one or more UV lights. For example, one or more UV lights may be secured to the insert414. These one or more UV lights may disinfect or help to disinfect the knife410when it is inserted into the knife block410by killing bacteria when they are turned on. The knife block410or the system100(e.g., the control unit102or the monitoring server130) may turn on the UV lights when it detects that the knife440is inserted in the knife block110. One or more of the UV lights may be aimed at the blade of the knife440when the knife440is inserted in the knife block410. One or more of the UV lights may be aimed at the edge of the knife440when the knife440is inserted in the knife block410.

In some implementations, the knife block410includes one or more knife sharpeners. For example, one or more knife sharpeners may be placed in the opening416band secured to the insert414b. Each of the one or more knife sharpeners may be a manual sharpener, e.g., sharpen the knife440when the knife440is inserted into the knife block410and/or when the knife440is removed from the knife block410. Each of the one or more knife sharpeners may be an automatic sharpener, e.g., sharpen the knife440using a motor after the knife440is inserted into the knife block410. There may be a single knife sharpener in each knife opening of the knife block410. That is there may be one knife sharpener for each knife that the knife block410is meant to receive.

FIG. 5Aare5B are example circuit diagrams of the connected knife block510. In some implementations, the knife block510is the knife block110shown inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D. In some implementations, the knife block510is the knife block310shown inFIGS. 3A-3B. In some implementations, the knife block510is the knife block410shown inFIGS. 4A-4E.

FIG. 5Ais a circuit diagram of the knife block510awhich relies on a power source502to supply power. The knife block510aincludes an AC/DC converter504, sensors506, the camera112, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter508, a microprocessor514, a wireless transmitter512, a switch516, and an actuator532.

The sensors506may include sensors corresponding to the buttons of the keypad124, sensors corresponding to the lock/unlock button120, the sensors118a-118c, the touchscreen display126, the sensors118d-118g, the sensor404a, and/or the sensors404b-404g.

The microprocessor514may receive outputs from the sensors506(e.g., through the A/D converter508) and output from the camera112. The microprocessor514may perform one or more actions based on the received outputs. For example, the microprocessor514may send all or part of these outputs to the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130using a wireless transmitter512. The microprocessor514may send a signal to the switch516based on the received outputs to change the position of the switch516. For example, the output of the sensors506may indicate that the lock/unlock button120was pressed by a user. In response, the microprocessor514sends a signal to the switch516to move the switch516's position to a locked position, for example, if the switch516is currently in an unlocked position. In response to the switch514's position moving to the lock position, the actuator532is triggered and moves the bolt334shown inFIGS. 3A-3Bis moved to an extended/locked position.

In some implementations, the outputs of one or more sensors of the sensors506are sent to the microprocessor514through the A/D converter508, e.g., when the outputs are digital signals. The outputs of these sensors may be sent directly to the microprocessor514.

The microprocessor514may receive input signals through the wireless transmitter512. For example, the microprocessor514may receive instructions from the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130through the wireless transmitter512. The microprocessor514may perform one or more actions in response to the received input signals. For example, the microprocessor514may send a signal to the switch516in response to a received input signal, instructing that the switch514's position be changed. The microprocessor514may perform other actions, such as displaying a notification on the touchscreen display126. The notification as well as instructions to display the notification may have been received through the wireless transmitter512. The microprocessor514may send a signal to the camera112to turn on and/or start recording, e.g., based on instructions received through the wireless transmitter512.

FIG. 5Bis a circuit diagram of the knife block510bwhich includes an onboard power supply516. The knife block510balso includes the sensors506, the camera112, the analog-to-digital (ND) converter508, the microprocessor514, the wireless transmitter512, the switch516, and the actuator532.

The power supply516may be a battery such as a lithium-ion battery.

FIGS. 6A through 6Fare diagrams showing example interfaces for interacting with a security monitoring system.

FIG. 6Ashows interfaces600a-600bdisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces600a-600bare of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. The interfaces600a-600bdepict a page for the knife block110. In the example ofFIG. 6A, the authorized user134has locked the knife block110from the application running on the computing device132.

Interface600aprovides information602acorresponding to the knife block110. The information602aincludes a current status or state of the knife block110. The information602aincludes information related to the knives of the knife block, such as what knives are present or missing, and what knives are sharp or dull. As shown, the information602aprovides that the knife block110is currently unlocked, and that the knives A, B, and C are all present in the knife block110and are all sharp.

The interface600aalso includes an interface element604a. The interface element604aallows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to lock the knife block110.

Here, the authorized user134has selected the interface element604a, resulting in the display of the computing device132transitioning from the interface600ato the interface600b, and in the knife block110being locked. As shown, the updated information602bindicates that the knife block110is now locked.

The interface600balso includes an interface element604b. The interface element604ballows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to unlock the knife block110.

FIG. 6Bshows interfaces610a-610bdisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces610a-610bare of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. The interfaces610a-610bdepict a page for a home security system (e.g., the system100). In the example ofFIG. 6B, the authorized user134has armed the home security system through the application running on the computing device132.

The interface610aprovides information612aindicating a current state of the home security system. As shown, the information612aindicates that the home security system is currently disarmed.

The interface610aalso includes an interface element614a. The interface element614aallows the authorized user134to change the state of the home security system, e.g., to arm the home security system.

Here, the authorized user134has selected the interface element614a, resulting in the display of the computing device132transitioning from the interface610ato the interface610b, and in the home security system being armed. As a result of the home security system being armed, the knife block110and the front door154have automatically been locked by the home security system.

The interface610bincludes a notification616bthat indicates the home security system has been armed and the resulting actions performed. For example, the notification616bindicates that the front door154and the knife block110have been locked.

The interface610balso provides information612bindicating a current state of the home security system. As shown, the information612bindicates that the home security system is currently armed.

The interface610balso includes an interface element614b. The interface element614ballows the authorized user134to change the state of the home security system, e.g., to disarm the home security system.

FIG. 6Cshows interfaces620aand600cdisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces620aand600care of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. In the example ofFIG. 6C, an authorized user has removed a knife from the knife block110.

The interface620adepicts a notification page that displays, for example, recent notifications related to the authorized user134's security system100. As an example, the notifications displayed in the interface620amay relate to persons entering the property150, persons interacting with the knife block110, a window of the property150being opened, a security alarm being triggered, or the like. As shown, the interface620aincludes a notification626a. As shown, the notification626aprovides that an authorized user (“Mr. Smith”) has removed knife B from the knife block110.

The term “Knife Block” has been underlined in the notification626a, indicating a link to the page for the knife block110. Here, the authorized user134has selected the link to the page for the knife block110, resulting in the authorized user134being directed to the interface600c.

The interface600cdepicts a page for the knife block110and displays information602ccorresponding to the knife block110. The information602cincludes a current status or state of the knife block110. The information602calso includes information related to the knives of the knife block, such as what knives are present or missing, and what knives are sharp or dull. The information602calso includes recent security notification related to the knife block110. As shown, the information602cprovides that the knife block110is currently unlocked, and that the knives A and C are present in the knife block110and are sharp. The information602calso provides that knife B was removed by Mr. Smith at 9:00 am and has yet to be replaced. The system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) may have identified Mr. Smith by obtaining image data from the camera112of the knife block110and/or image data collected by the cameras158a-158b, and comparing the collected image data with one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users—or with data retrieved from one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users. The system100and/or the knife block110may have confirmed that knives A and C are present and that knife B is missing using, for example, sensor data from the sensors118a-118c.

The interface600calso includes the interface element604a. The interface element604aallows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to lock the knife block110.

FIG. 6Dshows interfaces620band600ddisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces620band600dare of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. In the example ofFIG. 6D, an unauthorized user has attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110.

The interface620bdepicts a notification page that displays, for example, recent notifications related to the authorized user134's security system100. As an example, the notifications displayed in the interface620bmay relate to persons entering the property150, persons interacting with the knife block110, a window of the property150being opened, a security alarm being triggered, or the like. As shown, the interface620bincludes a notification626b. As shown, the notification626bprovides that an unauthorized user (“Bobby”) has attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110, and the knife block110has automatically been locked as a result. As an example, the system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) may have identified Bobby using image data collected by the camera112of the knife block110and/or image data collected by the cameras158a-158bas Bobby was approaching the knife block110, in front of the knife block110, and/or interacting with the knife block110. The system100may have proceeded to compare the collected image data with one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users—or with data retrieved from one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users. In response to identifying an unauthorized user, the system100may have sent instructions to the knife block110to lock the knife block110if it was in an unlocked state. The system100may have determined that Bobby attempted to remove a knife based on, for example, sensor data from an accelerometer in the knife block110, and/or sensor data from one of the sensors118a-118cindicating that one of the knives was pulled away from the knife block110before being stopped by the bolt334.

The term “Knife Block” has been underlined in the notification626b, indicating a link to the page for the knife block110. Here, the authorized user134has selected the link to the page for the knife block110, resulting in the authorized user134being directed to the interface600d.

The interface600ddepicts a page for the knife block110and displays information602dcorresponding to the knife block110. The information602dincludes a current status or state of the knife block110. The information602dalso includes information related to the knives of the knife block, such as what knives are present or missing, and what knives are sharp or dull. The information602dalso includes recent security notifications related to the knife block110. As shown, the information602dprovides that the knife block110is currently locked, and that the knives A, B, and C are all present in the knife block110and are all sharp. The information602dalso provides a recent security notification that Bobby attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110at 3:00 pm.

The interface600dalso includes the interface element604b. The interface element604ballows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to unlock the knife block110.

FIG. 6Eshows interfaces620cand600edisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces620cand600eare of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. In the example ofFIG. 6E, an unknown, and therefore unauthorized, person has attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110.

The interface620cdepicts a notification page that displays, for example, recent notifications related to the authorized user134's security system100. As an example, the notifications displayed in the interface620cmay relate to persons entering the property150, persons interacting with the knife block110, a window of the property150being opened, a security alarm being triggered, or the like. As shown, the interface620cincludes a notification626c. As shown, the notification626cprovides that an unknown person has attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110, and the knife block110has automatically been locked as a result. The notification626calso includes an image630of the unknown person that attempted to remove a knife that was taken from the camera112of the knife block110. As an example, the system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) may have attempted to identify the unknown person using image data collected by the camera112of the knife block110and/or image data collected by the cameras158a-158bas the person was approaching the knife block110, in front of the knife block110, and/or interacting with the knife block110. The system100may have proceeded to compare the collected image data with one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users—or with data retrieved from one or more stored images known to depict authorized and/or unauthorized users. In response to failing to identify the unknown person, the system100may have sent instructions to the knife block110to lock the knife block110if it was in an unlocked state. The system100may have determined that the unknown person attempted to remove a knife based on, for example, sensor data from an accelerometer in the knife block110, and/or sensor data from one of the sensors118a-118cindicating that one of the knives was pulled away from the knife block110before being stopped by the bolt334.

The term “Knife Block” has been underlined in the notification626c, indicating a link to the page for the knife block110. Here, the authorized user134has selected the link to the page for the knife block110, resulting in the authorized user134being directed to the interface600e.

The interface600edepicts a page for the knife block110and displays information602ecorresponding to the knife block110. The information602eincludes a current status or state of the knife block110. The information602ealso includes information related to the knives of the knife block, such as what knives are present or missing, and what knives are sharp or dull. The information602ealso includes recent security notifications related to the knife block110. As shown, the information602eprovides that the knife block110is currently locked, and that the knives A, B, and C are all present in the knife block110and are all sharp. The information602ealso provides a recent security notification that an unknown person attempted to remove a knife from the knife block110at 10:00 pm.

The interface600ealso includes the interface element604b. The interface element604ballows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to unlock the knife block110.

FIG. 6Fshows interfaces620d-620eand600fdisplayed on the computing device132of the authorized user134. The interfaces620d-620eand600fare of a security application, such as a home security application, running on the computing device132. In the example ofFIG. 6F, the knife block110or the system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) based on sensor data received from the knife block110has detected that a knife is dull.

The interface620ddepicts a notification page that displays, for example, recent notifications related to the authorized user134's security system100. As shown, the interface620dincludes a notification626d. As shown, the notification626dprovides that the system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) has determined that knife A is dull. The notification626dalso provides a warning to sharpen knife A before using. The notification626dalso includes an interface element640. The interface element640is an interactive element that provides the authorized user134with a means to acknowledge the notification626d, e.g., the warning within the notification626d. For example, the authorized user134must select the interface element640in order to acknowledge the warning and to unlock the knife block110. The system100may have determined that knife A is dull using the techniques described above with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E.

The term “Knife Block” has been underlined in the notification626d, indicating a link to the page for the knife block110. If the authorized user134were to select this link and be taken to a page for the knife block110, the option to unlock the knife block110may be missing from the page for the knife block110or may be grayed out to prevent the authorized user134from unlocking the knife block110until they have first acknowledged the notification626d.

Here the authorized user134has selected the interface element640, resulting in the authorized user134being shown the interface620e.

The interface620edepicts an updated notification page that displays a new notification626e. The notification626econfirms to the authorized user134that they have acknowledged the notification626dand are now permitted to unlock the knife block110. The term “Knife Block” has been underlined in the notification626e, indicating a link to the page for the knife block110. Here, the authorized user134has selected the link to the page for the knife block110, resulting in the authorized user134being directed to the interface600f.

The interface600fdepicts a page for the knife block110and displays information602fcorresponding to the knife block110. The information602fincludes a current status or state of the knife block110. The information602falso includes information related to the knives of the knife block, such as what knives are present or missing, and what knives are sharp or dull. The information602falso includes recent security notifications related to the knife block110. As shown, the information602fprovides that the knife block110is currently locked, and that the knives A, B, and C are all present in the knife block110but that knife A is dull. The information602falso provides a recent security notification that knife A was detected as dull at 6:00 pm.

The interface600falso includes the interface element604b. The interface element604ballows the authorized user134to change the status or state of the knife block110, e.g., to unlock the knife block110.

In some implementations, instead of locking the knife block110as a result of determining that a person removing or attempting to remove a knife from the knife block110is either unknown or unauthorized, the system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) automatically locks the knife block110, by sending instructions to the knife block110, when it determines that a person is in the vicinity of the knife block110(e.g., that a person is in the kitchen152) and/or is approaching the knife block110. The system100will then proceed to unlock the knife block110once the person has been identified as an authorized user, or once the person has entered a security code through the keypad124or through the touchscreen display126.

In some implementations, the knife block110includes one or more biometric sensors. The system100(e.g., through the control unit102and/or the monitoring server130) may uses output from the one or more biometric sensors to identify a person attempting to retrieve the knife and to determine if they are an authorized user. The biometric sensors may include a fingerprint reader, an iris scanner, or the like.

In some implementations, the authorized user134can set a schedule, e.g., through the computing device132, for the state of the knife block110. For example, the authorized user134can set a schedule to have the knife block110locked during the hours that they are generally at work on the weekdays.

In some implementations, there are multiple authorized users. For example, the owners of a home or property may each be an authorized user, employees such as a chef or a cook may be authorized users, persons, e.g., children, that have been authorized by an authorized user, e.g., a parent, may be authorized users, etc.

FIG. 7is a flowchart of an example process700for changing the state of a connected knife block. The process700can be performed, at least in part, using the system100described inFIG. 1, the knife block110described inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D, the knife block310described inFIGS. 3A-3B, the knife block410described inFIGS. 4A-4E, the knife block510described inFIGS. 5A-5B, or the home monitoring system900described inFIG. 9.

The process700includes receiving first sensor data (702). For example, with respect toFIGS. 2A-2D, the sensor data may be the data output by one or more, or all, of the sensors118a-118c. With respect toFIGS. 4A-4E, the sensor data may include the data output by the sensor418. The sensor data may be received at the microprocessor514of the knife block510shown inFIG. 5A-5B. The sensor data may be received at the control unit102shown inFIG. 1, e.g., from the knife block110. The sensor data may be received at the monitoring server130shown inFIG. 1, e.g., from the knife block110or the control unit102.

The process700includes determining that the knife is present based on the first sensor data (704). For example, the outputs of one of the sensors118a-118cmay have a value that falls within a first range of values. This first range of values may correlate with an indication that the corresponding knife is in the knife block110. Accordingly, the system100may determine that the sensor data indicates that the knife and, therefore, that the knife is present in the knife block110.

The process700includes receiving second sensor data (706). For example, with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E, the second sensor data may be the data output by one or more, or all, of the sensors404a-404g. The second sensor data may also include the data output by other sensors located in different openings of the knife block410.

In some implementations, the process700does not include receiving second sensor data.

The process700includes determining that the knife is dull based on the second sensor data (708). For example, with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E, the outputs of one or more of the sensors404a-404gmay have a value(s) that fall within one or more particular ranges of values. These one or more ranges of values may correlate with an indication that the corresponding knife is dull, e.g., an indication that the knife has not passed or cut through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402b. As another example, there may be no output from the one or more sensors (e.g., where the one or more sensors are switches), indicating that the corresponding knife is dull as it has not passed or cut through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402b.

In implementations where the process700does not include receiving second sensor data, the process700includes determining that the knife is dull based on the first sensor data or based on other data. For example, as described above, the system100may determine that a knife is dull based on the output from the sensor418having a value that falls within a range of values that correlate with the corresponding knife not being fully inserted into the corresponding opening, e.g., due to the knife failing to pass or cut through the piece of material402aand/or the piece of material402b. As another example, as described above, the system100may determine that a knife is dull based on one or more of the amount of time the knife has been removed from the knife block110for, the amount of time that has passed since the knife was last viewed to be sharpened, the amount of time the knife has been removed from the knife block110since the knife was last viewed to be sharpened, the number of times that the knife has been removed from the knife block110, the number of times that the knife has been removed from the knife block110since the knife was last viewed to be sharpened, etc.

The process700includes actuating a locking mechanism that locks the knife into a knife block (710). For example, with respect toFIGS. 3A-3B, the locking mechanism may include the actuator332and the bolt334. Actuating the locking mechanism may include using the actuator332to slide the bolt334through one or more knives inserted into the knife block310. Actuating the locking mechanism may include using the actuator332to cause the bolt334to telescope from a compact/unlocked state shown inFIG. 3Ato an extended/locked state shown inFIG. 3B.

The process700includes sending a notification indicating at least one of that the knife is dull or that knife has been locked (710). With respect toFIG. 1, the notification may be sent by the knife block110to the computing device132of the authorized user134. The notification may be sent by the control unit102to the computing device132of the authorized user134. The notification may be sent by the monitoring server130to the computing device132of the authorized user134. With respect toFIGS. 6A-6F, the notification may be presented on a security application running on the computing device132, e.g., on a notification page of the security application.

FIG. 8is a flowchart of an example process800for changing the state of a connected knife block. The process800can be performed, at least in part, using the system100described inFIG. 1, the knife block110described inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D, the knife block310described inFIGS. 3A-3B, the knife block410described inFIGS. 4A-4E, the knife block510described inFIGS. 5A-5B, or the home monitoring system900described inFIG. 9.

The process800includes receiving sensor data (802). For example, with respect toFIGS. 2A-2D, the sensor data may include the output of one or more of the sensors118a-118c, the keypad124, the lock/unlock button120, or the touchscreen display126. For example, with respect toFIGS. 4A-4E, the sensor data may include the output of one or more of the sensors418and404a-404g. For example, with respect toFIGS. 5A-5B, the sensor data may include the output of the sensors506. The sensors506may include, for example, an accelerometer.

The process800includes, in response to the sensor data, turning on a camera (804). For example, the system100(e.g., through the control unit102or the monitoring server130) or the knife block110may turn on the camera112in response to determining that: a person has attempted to remove a knife based on the output of an accelerometer in the knife block110and/or based on the output of one of the sensors118a-118c; a person has removed a knife based on the output of one of the sensors118a-118c; a person has successfully entered a code through the keypad124or the touchscreen display126to unlock the knife block110; a person has entered an incorrect code through the keypad124or the touchscreen display126; or a person has pressed the lock/unlock button120when the knife block110was locked.

The process800includes capturing image data using the camera (806). For example, with respect toFIGS. 5A-5B, the knife block510may capture image data using the camera112. The knife block510may also transmit the capture image data to the control unit102and/or to the monitoring server130. The control unit102may transmit image data that it receives from the knife block510to the monitoring server130. In some implementations, the captured image data may be transmitted to the computing device132of the authorized user, e.g., by the knife block510, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130.

The process800includes, based on the image data, determining that a person in view of the camera is either unknown or is unauthorized to remove a knife (808). For example, with respect toFIG. 1, the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130may compare the image data with stored images of authorized and/or unauthorized users, or may compare the image data with data retrieved from images of authorized and/or unauthorized users. If the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130determines that a person appearing in the image data matches an unauthorized user, then the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130determines that an unauthorized user is in view of the camera112. If the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130determines that a person appearing in the image data does not match any authorized or unauthorized users, then the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130determines that an unknown person is in view of the camera112.

The process800includes actuating a locking mechanism that locks the knife into a knife block (810). For example, with respect toFIGS. 3A-3B, the locking mechanism may include the actuator332and the bolt334. Actuating the locking mechanism may include using the actuator332to slide the bolt334through one or more knives inserted into the knife block310. Actuating the locking mechanism may include using the actuator332to cause the bolt334to telescope from a compact/unlocked state shown inFIG. 3Ato an extended/locked state shown inFIG. 3B.

The process800includes sending a notification indicating at least one of that an unknown person attempted to remove the knife, that an unauthorized person attempted to remove the knife, or that the knife has been locked (812). With respect toFIG. 1, the notification may be sent by the knife block110to the computing device132of the authorized user134. The notification may be sent by the control unit102to the computing device132of the authorized user134. The notification may be sent by the monitoring server130to the computing device132of the authorized user134. With respect toFIGS. 6A-6F, the notification may be presented on a security application running on the computing device132, e.g., on a notification page of the security application. With respect toFIG. 6D, if the person in view of the camera112is determined to be an unauthorized user, the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130may send a notification to the computing device132of the authorized user134that is similar to the notification626b. With respect toFIG. 6E, if the person in view of the camera112is determined to be an unknown person, the knife block110, the control unit102, or the monitoring server130may send a notification to the computing device132of the authorized user134that is similar to the notification626c.

FIG. 9is a diagram illustrating an example of a home monitoring system900with a connected knife block992. The knife block992may be the knife block110shown inFIGS. 1 and 2A-2D, the knife block310shown inFIGS. 3A-3B, the knife block410shown inFIGS. 4A-4E, the knife block510shown inFIGS. 5A-5B. The home monitoring system900may be the system100shown inFIG. 1. The monitoring system900includes a network905, a control unit910, one or more user devices940and950, a monitoring server960, and a central alarm station server970. In some examples, the network905facilitates communications between the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950, the monitoring server960, and the central alarm station server970.

The network905is configured to enable exchange of electronic communications between devices connected to the network905. For example, the network905may be configured to enable exchange of electronic communications between the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950, the monitoring server960, and the central alarm station server970. The network905may include, for example, one or more of the Internet, Wide Area Networks (WANs), Local Area Networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wireless telephone networks (e.g., a public switched telephone network (PSTN), Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a cellular network, and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), radio, television, cable, satellite, or any other delivery or tunneling mechanism for carrying data. Network905may include multiple networks or subnetworks, each of which may include, for example, a wired or wireless data pathway. The network905may include a circuit-switched network, a packet-switched data network, or any other network able to carry electronic communications (e.g., data or voice communications). For example, the network905may include networks based on the Internet protocol (IP), asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), the PSTN, packet-switched networks based on IP, X.25, or Frame Relay, or other comparable technologies and may support voice using, for example, VoIP, or other comparable protocols used for voice communications. The network905may include one or more networks that include wireless data channels and wireless voice channels. The network905may be a wireless network, a broadband network, or a combination of networks including a wireless network and a broadband network.

The control unit910includes a controller912and a network module914. The controller912is configured to control a control unit monitoring system (e.g., a control unit system) that includes the control unit910. In some examples, the controller912may include a processor or other control circuitry configured to execute instructions of a program that controls operation of a control unit system. In these examples, the controller912may be configured to receive input from sensors, flow meters, or other devices included in the control unit system and control operations of devices included in the household (e.g., speakers, lights, doors, etc.). For example, the controller912may be configured to control operation of the network module914included in the control unit910.

The network module914is a communication device configured to exchange communications over the network905. The network module914may be a wireless communication module configured to exchange wireless communications over the network905. For example, the network module914may be a wireless communication device configured to exchange communications over a wireless data channel and a wireless voice channel. In this example, the network module914may transmit alarm data over a wireless data channel and establish a two-way voice communication session over a wireless voice channel. The wireless communication device may include one or more of a LTE module, a GSM module, a radio modem, cellular transmission module, or any type of module configured to exchange communications in one of the following formats: LTE, GSM or GPRS, CDMA, EDGE or EGPRS, EV-DO or EVDO, UMTS, or IP.

The network module914also may be a wired communication module configured to exchange communications over the network905using a wired connection. For instance, the network module914may be a modem, a network interface card, or another type of network interface device. The network module914may be an Ethernet network card configured to enable the control unit910to communicate over a local area network and/or the Internet. The network module914also may be a voice band modem configured to enable the alarm panel to communicate over the telephone lines of Plain Old Telephone Systems (POTS).

The control unit system that includes the control unit910includes one or more sensors. For example, the monitoring system may include multiple sensors920. The sensors920may include a lock sensor, a contact sensor, a motion sensor, or any other type of sensor included in a control unit system. The sensors920also may include an environmental sensor, such as a temperature sensor, a water sensor, a rain sensor, a wind sensor, a light sensor, a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector, an air quality sensor, etc. The sensors920further may include a health monitoring sensor, such as a prescription bottle sensor that monitors taking of prescriptions, a blood pressure sensor, a blood sugar sensor, a bed mat configured to sense presence of liquid (e.g., bodily fluids) on the bed mat, etc. In some examples, the health-monitoring sensor can be a wearable sensor that attaches to a user in the home. The health-monitoring sensor can collect various health data, including pulse, heart rate, respiration rate, sugar or glucose level, bodily temperature, or motion data.

The sensors920can also include a radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensor that identifies a particular article that includes a pre-assigned RFID tag.

The control unit910communicates with the home automation controls922and a camera930to perform monitoring. The home automation controls922are connected to one or more devices that enable automation of actions in the home. For instance, the home automation controls922may be connected to one or more lighting systems and may be configured to control operation of the one or more lighting systems. In addition, the home automation controls922may be connected to one or more electronic locks at the home and may be configured to control operation of the one or more electronic locks (e.g., control Z-Wave locks using wireless communications in the Z-Wave protocol). Further, the home automation controls922may be connected to one or more appliances at the home and may be configured to control operation of the one or more appliances. The home automation controls922may include multiple modules that are each specific to the type of device being controlled in an automated manner. The home automation controls922may control the one or more devices based on commands received from the control unit910. For instance, the home automation controls922may cause a lighting system to illuminate an area to provide a better image of the area when captured by a camera930.

The camera930may be a video/photographic camera or other type of optical sensing device configured to capture images. For instance, the camera930may be configured to capture images of an area within a building or home monitored by the control unit910. The camera930may be configured to capture single, static images of the area and also video images of the area in which multiple images of the area are captured at a relatively high frequency (e.g., thirty images per second). The camera930may be controlled based on commands received from the control unit910.

The camera930may be triggered by several different types of techniques. For instance, a Passive Infra-Red (PIR) motion sensor may be built into the camera930and used to trigger the camera930to capture one or more images when motion is detected. The camera930also may include a microwave motion sensor built into the camera and used to trigger the camera930to capture one or more images when motion is detected. The camera930may have a “normally open” or “normally closed” digital input that can trigger capture of one or more images when external sensors (e.g., the sensors920, PIR, door/window, etc.) detect motion or other events. In some implementations, the camera930receives a command to capture an image when external devices detect motion or another potential alarm event. The camera930may receive the command from the controller912or directly from one of the sensors920.

In some examples, the camera930triggers integrated or external illuminators (e.g., Infra-Red, Z-wave controlled “white” lights, lights controlled by the home automation controls922, etc.) to improve image quality when the scene is dark. An integrated or separate light sensor may be used to determine if illumination is desired and may result in increased image quality.

The camera930may be programmed with any combination of time/day schedules, system “arming state”, or other variables to determine whether images should be captured or not when triggers occur. The camera930may enter a low-power mode when not capturing images. In this case, the camera930may wake periodically to check for inbound messages from the controller912. The camera930may be powered by internal, replaceable batteries if located remotely from the control unit910. The camera930may employ a small solar cell to recharge the battery when light is available. Alternatively, the camera930may be powered by the controller912's power supply if the camera930is co-located with the controller912.

In some implementations, the camera930communicates directly with the monitoring server960over the Internet. In these implementations, image data captured by the camera930does not pass through the control unit910and the camera930receives commands related to operation from the monitoring server960.

The system900also includes thermostat934to perform dynamic environmental control at the home. The thermostat934is configured to monitor temperature and/or energy consumption of an HVAC system associated with the thermostat934, and is further configured to provide control of environmental (e.g., temperature) settings. In some implementations, the thermostat934can additionally or alternatively receive data relating to activity at a home and/or environmental data at a home, e.g., at various locations indoors and outdoors at the home. The thermostat934can directly measure energy consumption of the HVAC system associated with the thermostat, or can estimate energy consumption of the HVAC system associated with the thermostat934, for example, based on detected usage of one or more components of the HVAC system associated with the thermostat934. The thermostat934can communicate temperature and/or energy monitoring information to or from the control unit910and can control the environmental (e.g., temperature) settings based on commands received from the control unit910.

In some implementations, the thermostat934is a dynamically programmable thermostat and can be integrated with the control unit910. For example, the dynamically programmable thermostat934can include the control unit910, e.g., as an internal component to the dynamically programmable thermostat934. In addition, the control unit910can be a gateway device that communicates with the dynamically programmable thermostat934. In some implementations, the thermostat934is controlled via one or more home automation controls922.

A module937is connected to one or more components of an HVAC system associated with a home, and is configured to control operation of the one or more components of the HVAC system. In some implementations, the module937is also configured to monitor energy consumption of the HVAC system components, for example, by directly measuring the energy consumption of the HVAC system components or by estimating the energy usage of the one or more HVAC system components based on detecting usage of components of the HVAC system. The module937can communicate energy monitoring information and the state of the HVAC system components to the thermostat934and can control the one or more components of the HVAC system based on commands received from the thermostat934.

In some examples, the system900further includes one or more robotic devices990. The robotic devices990may be any type of robots that are capable of moving and taking actions that assist in home monitoring. For example, the robotic devices990may include drones that are capable of moving throughout a home based on automated control technology and/or user input control provided by a user. In this example, the drones may be able to fly, roll, walk, or otherwise move about the home. The drones may include helicopter type devices (e.g., quad copters), rolling helicopter type devices (e.g., roller copter devices that can fly and roll along the ground, walls, or ceiling) and land vehicle type devices (e.g., automated cars that drive around a home). In some cases, the robotic devices990may be devices that are intended for other purposes and merely associated with the system900for use in appropriate circumstances. For instance, a robotic vacuum cleaner device may be associated with the monitoring system900as one of the robotic devices990and may be controlled to take action responsive to monitoring system events.

In some examples, the robotic devices990automatically navigate within a home. In these examples, the robotic devices990include sensors and control processors that guide movement of the robotic devices990within the home. For instance, the robotic devices990may navigate within the home using one or more cameras, one or more proximity sensors, one or more gyroscopes, one or more accelerometers, one or more magnetometers, a global positioning system (GPS) unit, an altimeter, one or more sonar or laser sensors, and/or any other types of sensors that aid in navigation about a space. The robotic devices990may include control processors that process output from the various sensors and control the robotic devices990to move along a path that reaches the desired destination and avoids obstacles. In this regard, the control processors detect walls or other obstacles in the home and guide movement of the robotic devices990in a manner that avoids the walls and other obstacles.

In addition, the robotic devices990may store data that describes attributes of the home. For instance, the robotic devices990may store a floorplan and/or a three-dimensional model of the home that enables the robotic devices990to navigate the home. During initial configuration, the robotic devices990may receive the data describing attributes of the home, determine a frame of reference to the data (e.g., a home or reference location in the home), and navigate the home based on the frame of reference and the data describing attributes of the home. Further, initial configuration of the robotic devices990also may include learning of one or more navigation patterns in which a user provides input to control the robotic devices990to perform a specific navigation action (e.g., fly to an upstairs bedroom and spin around while capturing video and then return to a home charging base). In this regard, the robotic devices990may learn and store the navigation patterns such that the robotic devices990may automatically repeat the specific navigation actions upon a later request.

In some examples, the robotic devices990may include data capture and recording devices. In these examples, the robotic devices990may include one or more cameras, one or more motion sensors, one or more microphones, one or more biometric data collection tools, one or more temperature sensors, one or more humidity sensors, one or more air flow sensors, and/or any other types of sensors that may be useful in capturing monitoring data related to the home and users in the home. The one or more biometric data collection tools may be configured to collect biometric samples of a person in the home with or without contact of the person. For instance, the biometric data collection tools may include a fingerprint scanner, a hair sample collection tool, a skin cell collection tool, and/or any other tool that allows the robotic devices990to take and store a biometric sample that can be used to identify the person (e.g., a biometric sample with DNA that can be used for DNA testing).

In some implementations, the robotic devices990may include output devices. In these implementations, the robotic devices990may include one or more displays, one or more speakers, and/or any type of output devices that allow the robotic devices990to communicate information to a nearby user.

The robotic devices990also may include a communication module that enables the robotic devices990to communicate with the control unit910, each other, and/or other devices. The communication module may be a wireless communication module that allows the robotic devices990to communicate wirelessly. For instance, the communication module may be a Wi-Fi module that enables the robotic devices990to communicate over a local wireless network at the home. The communication module further may be a 900 MHz wireless communication module that enables the robotic devices990to communicate directly with the control unit910. Other types of short-range wireless communication protocols, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, Z-wave, Zigbee, etc., may be used to allow the robotic devices990to communicate with other devices in the home. In some implementations, the robotic devices990may communicate with each other or with other devices of the system900through the network905.

The robotic devices990further may include processor and storage capabilities. The robotic devices990may include any suitable processing devices that enable the robotic devices990to operate applications and perform the actions described throughout this disclosure. In addition, the robotic devices990may include solid-state electronic storage that enables the robotic devices990to store applications, configuration data, collected sensor data, and/or any other type of information available to the robotic devices990.

The robotic devices990are associated with one or more charging stations. The charging stations may be located at predefined home base or reference locations in the home. The robotic devices990may be configured to navigate to the charging stations after completion of tasks needed to be performed for the monitoring system900. For instance, after completion of a monitoring operation or upon instruction by the control unit910, the robotic devices990may be configured to automatically fly to and land on one of the charging stations. In this regard, the robotic devices990may automatically maintain a fully charged battery in a state in which the robotic devices990are ready for use by the monitoring system900.

The charging stations may be contact based charging stations and/or wireless charging stations. For contact based charging stations, the robotic devices990may have readily accessible points of contact that the robotic devices990are capable of positioning and mating with a corresponding contact on the charging station. For instance, a helicopter type robotic device may have an electronic contact on a portion of its landing gear that rests on and mates with an electronic pad of a charging station when the helicopter type robotic device lands on the charging station. The electronic contact on the robotic device may include a cover that opens to expose the electronic contact when the robotic device is charging and closes to cover and insulate the electronic contact when the robotic device is in operation.

For wireless charging stations, the robotic devices990may charge through a wireless exchange of power. In these cases, the robotic devices990need only locate themselves closely enough to the wireless charging stations for the wireless exchange of power to occur. In this regard, the positioning needed to land at a predefined home base or reference location in the home may be less precise than with a contact based charging station. Based on the robotic devices990landing at a wireless charging station, the wireless charging station outputs a wireless signal that the robotic devices990receive and convert to a power signal that charges a battery maintained on the robotic devices990.

In some implementations, each of the robotic devices990has a corresponding and assigned charging station such that the number of robotic devices990equals the number of charging stations. In these implementations, the robotic devices990always navigate to the specific charging station assigned to that robotic device. For instance, a first robotic device may always use a first charging station and a second robotic device may always use a second charging station.

In some examples, the robotic devices990may share charging stations. For instance, the robotic devices990may use one or more community charging stations that are capable of charging multiple robotic devices990. The community charging station may be configured to charge multiple robotic devices990in parallel. The community charging station may be configured to charge multiple robotic devices990in serial such that the multiple robotic devices990take turns charging and, when fully charged, return to a predefined home base or reference location in the home that is not associated with a charger. The number of community charging stations may be less than the number of robotic devices990.

In addition, the charging stations may not be assigned to specific robotic devices990and may be capable of charging any of the robotic devices990. In this regard, the robotic devices990may use any suitable, unoccupied charging station when not in use. For instance, when one of the robotic devices990has completed an operation or is in need of battery charge, the control unit910references a stored table of the occupancy status of each charging station and instructs the robotic device to navigate to the nearest charging station that is unoccupied.

The system900further includes one or more integrated security devices980. The one or more integrated security devices may include any type of device used to provide alerts based on received sensor data. For instance, the one or more control units910may provide one or more alerts to the one or more integrated security input/output devices980. Additionally, the one or more control units910may receive one or more sensor data from the sensors920and determine whether to provide an alert to the one or more integrated security input/output devices980.

The sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the integrated security devices980may communicate with the controller912over communication links924,926,928,932,938, and984. The communication links924,926,928,932,938, and984may be a wired or wireless data pathway configured to transmit signals from the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the integrated security devices980to the controller912. The sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the integrated security devices980may continuously transmit sensed values to the controller912, periodically transmit sensed values to the controller912, or transmit sensed values to the controller912in response to a change in a sensed value.

The communication links924,926,928,932,938, and984may include a local network. The sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the integrated security devices980, and the controller912may exchange data and commands over the local network. The local network may include 802.11 “Wi-Fi” wireless Ethernet (e.g., using low-power Wi-Fi chipsets), Z-Wave, Zigbee, Bluetooth, “Homeplug” or other “Powerline” networks that operate over AC wiring, and a Category 5 (CAT5) or Category 6 (CAT6) wired Ethernet network. The local network may be a mesh network constructed based on the devices connected to the mesh network.

The monitoring server960is an electronic device configured to provide monitoring services by exchanging electronic communications with the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950, and the central alarm station server970over the network905. For example, the monitoring server960may be configured to monitor events generated by the control unit910. In this example, the monitoring server960may exchange electronic communications with the network module914included in the control unit910to receive information regarding events detected by the control unit910. The monitoring server960also may receive information regarding events from the one or more user devices940and950.

In some examples, the monitoring server960may route alert data received from the network module914or the one or more user devices940and950to the central alarm station server970. For example, the monitoring server960may transmit the alert data to the central alarm station server970over the network905.

The monitoring server960may store sensor and image data received from the monitoring system and perform analysis of sensor and image data received from the monitoring system. Based on the analysis, the monitoring server960may communicate with and control aspects of the control unit910or the one or more user devices940and950.

The monitoring server960may provide various monitoring services to the system900. For example, the monitoring server960may analyze the sensor, image, and other data to determine an activity pattern of a resident of the home monitored by the system900. In some implementations, the monitoring server960may analyze the data for alarm conditions or may determine and perform actions at the home by issuing commands to one or more of the controls922, possibly through the control unit910.

The monitoring server960can be configured to provide information (e.g., activity patterns) related to one or more residents of the home monitored by the system900. For example, one or more of the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the integrated security devices980can collect data related to a resident including location information (e.g., if the resident is home or is not home) and provide location information to the thermostat934.

The central alarm station server970is an electronic device configured to provide alarm monitoring service by exchanging communications with the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950, and the monitoring server960over the network905. For example, the central alarm station server970may be configured to monitor alerting events generated by the control unit910. In this example, the central alarm station server970may exchange communications with the network module914included in the control unit910to receive information regarding alerting events detected by the control unit910. The central alarm station server970also may receive information regarding alerting events from the one or more user devices940and950and/or the monitoring server960.

The central alarm station server970is connected to multiple terminals972and974. The terminals972and974may be used by operators to process alerting events. For example, the central alarm station server970may route alerting data to the terminals972and974to enable an operator to process the alerting data. The terminals972and974may include general-purpose computers (e.g., desktop personal computers, workstations, or laptop computers) that are configured to receive alerting data from a server in the central alarm station server970and render a display of information based on the alerting data. For instance, the controller912may control the network module914to transmit, to the central alarm station server970, alerting data indicating that a sensor920detected motion from a motion sensor via the sensors920. The central alarm station server970may receive the alerting data and route the alerting data to the terminal972for processing by an operator associated with the terminal972. The terminal972may render a display to the operator that includes information associated with the alerting event (e.g., the lock sensor data, the motion sensor data, the contact sensor data, etc.) and the operator may handle the alerting event based on the displayed information.

In some implementations, the terminals972and974may be mobile devices or devices designed for a specific function. AlthoughFIG. 9illustrates two terminals for brevity, actual implementations may include more (and, perhaps, many more) terminals.

The one or more authorized user devices940and950are devices that host and display user interfaces. For instance, the user device940is a mobile device that hosts or runs one or more native applications (e.g., the home monitoring application942). The user device940may be a cellular phone or a non-cellular locally networked device with a display. The user device940may include a cell phone, a smart phone, a tablet PC, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), or any other portable device configured to communicate over a network and display information. For example, implementations may also include Blackberry-type devices (e.g., as provided by Research in Motion), electronic organizers, iPhone-type devices (e.g., as provided by Apple), iPod devices (e.g., as provided by Apple) or other portable music players, other communication devices, and handheld or portable electronic devices for gaming, communications, and/or data organization. The user device940may perform functions unrelated to the monitoring system, such as placing personal telephone calls, playing music, playing video, displaying pictures, browsing the Internet, maintaining an electronic calendar, etc.

The user device940includes a home monitoring application952. The home monitoring application942refers to a software/firmware program running on the corresponding mobile device that enables the user interface and features described throughout. The user device940may load or install the home monitoring application942based on data received over a network or data received from local media. The home monitoring application942runs on mobile devices platforms, such as iPhone, iPod touch, Blackberry, Google Android, Windows Mobile, etc. The home monitoring application942enables the user device940to receive and process image and sensor data from the monitoring system.

The user device940may be a general-purpose computer (e.g., a desktop personal computer, a workstation, or a laptop computer) that is configured to communicate with the monitoring server960and/or the control unit910over the network905. The user device940may be configured to display a smart home user interface952that is generated by the user device940or generated by the monitoring server960. For example, the user device940may be configured to display a user interface (e.g., a web page) provided by the monitoring server960that enables a user to perceive images captured by the camera930and/or reports related to the monitoring system. AlthoughFIG. 9illustrates two user devices for brevity, actual implementations may include more (and, perhaps, many more) or fewer user devices.

In some implementations, the one or more user devices940and950communicate with and receive monitoring system data from the control unit910using the communication link938. For instance, the one or more user devices940and950may communicate with the control unit910using various local wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-wave, Zigbee, HomePlug (ethernet over power line), or wired protocols such as Ethernet and USB, to connect the one or more user devices940and950to local security and automation equipment. The one or more user devices940and950may connect locally to the monitoring system and its sensors and other devices. The local connection may improve the speed of status and control communications because communicating through the network905with a remote server (e.g., the monitoring server960) may be significantly slower.

Although the one or more user devices940and950are shown as communicating with the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950may communicate directly with the sensors and other devices controlled by the control unit910. In some implementations, the one or more user devices940and950replace the control unit910and perform the functions of the control unit910for local monitoring and long range/offsite communication.

In other implementations, the one or more user devices940and950receive monitoring system data captured by the control unit910through the network905. The one or more user devices940,950may receive the data from the control unit910through the network905or the monitoring server960may relay data received from the control unit910to the one or more user devices940and950through the network905. In this regard, the monitoring server960may facilitate communication between the one or more user devices940and950and the monitoring system.

In some implementations, the one or more user devices940and950may be configured to switch whether the one or more user devices940and950communicate with the control unit910directly (e.g., through link938) or through the monitoring server960(e.g., through network905) based on a location of the one or more user devices940and950. For instance, when the one or more user devices940and950are located close to the control unit910and in range to communicate directly with the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950use direct communication. When the one or more user devices940and950are located far from the control unit910and not in range to communicate directly with the control unit910, the one or more user devices940and950use communication through the monitoring server960.

Although the one or more user devices940and950are shown as being connected to the network905, in some implementations, the one or more user devices940and950are not connected to the network905. In these implementations, the one or more user devices940and950communicate directly with one or more of the monitoring system components and no network (e.g., Internet) connection or reliance on remote servers is needed.

In some implementations, the one or more user devices940and950are used in conjunction with only local sensors and/or local devices in a house. In these implementations, the system900includes the one or more user devices940and950, the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, and the robotic devices990. The one or more user devices940and950receive data directly from the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, and the robotic devices990, and sends data directly to the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, and the robotic devices990. The one or more user devices940,950provide the appropriate interfaces/processing to provide visual surveillance and reporting.

In other implementations, the system900further includes network905and the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990, and are configured to communicate sensor and image data to the one or more user devices940and950over network905(e.g., the Internet, cellular network, etc.). In yet another implementation, the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990(or a component, such as a bridge/router) are intelligent enough to change the communication pathway from a direct local pathway when the one or more user devices940and950are in close physical proximity to the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990to a pathway over network905when the one or more user devices940and950are farther from the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990.

In some examples, the system leverages GPS information from the one or more user devices940and950to determine whether the one or more user devices940and950are close enough to the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990to use the direct local pathway or whether the one or more user devices940and950are far enough from the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990that the pathway over network905is required.

In other examples, the system leverages status communications (e.g., pinging) between the one or more user devices940and950and the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990to determine whether communication using the direct local pathway is possible. If communication using the direct local pathway is possible, the one or more user devices940and950communicate with the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990using the direct local pathway. If communication using the direct local pathway is not possible, the one or more user devices940and950communicate with the sensors920, the home automation controls922, the camera930, the thermostat934, and the robotic devices990using the pathway over network905.

In some implementations, the system900provides end users with access to images captured by the camera930to aid in decision making. The system900may transmit the images captured by the camera930over a wireless WAN network to the user devices940and950. Because transmission over a wireless WAN network may be relatively expensive, the system900can use several techniques to reduce costs while providing access to significant levels of useful visual information (e.g., compressing data, down-sampling data, sending data only over inexpensive LAN connections, or other techniques).

In some implementations, a state of the monitoring system and other events sensed by the monitoring system may be used to enable/disable video/image recording devices (e.g., the camera930). In these implementations, the camera930may be set to capture images on a periodic basis when the alarm system is armed in an “away” state, but set not to capture images when the alarm system is armed in a “home” state or disarmed. In addition, the camera930may be triggered to begin capturing images when the alarm system detects an event, such as an alarm event, a door-opening event for a door that leads to an area within a field of view of the camera930, or motion in the area within the field of view of the camera930. In other implementations, the camera930may capture images continuously, but the captured images may be stored or transmitted over a network when needed.

The system900further includes the knife block992in communication with the control unit910through a communication link994, which similarly to as described above in regards to communication links924,926,928,932,938, and984, may be wired or wireless and include a local network. The knife block992may be the knife block110, the control unit910may be the control unit102, the sensors920may include the sensors118a-118cshown inFIGS. 2A-2D, the sensor418shown inFIGS. 4A-4E, one or more of the sensors404a-404gshown inFIGS. 4A-4E, the automation controls922may include the actuator332shown inFIGS. 3A-3B.

The described systems, methods, and techniques may be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, computer hardware, firmware, software, or in combinations of these elements. Apparatus implementing these techniques may include appropriate input and output devices, a computer processor, and a computer program product tangibly embodied in a machine-readable storage device for execution by a programmable processor. A process implementing these techniques may be performed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform desired functions by operating on input data and generating appropriate output. The techniques may be implemented in one or more computer programs that are executable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a data storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

Each computer program may be implemented in a high-level procedural or object-oriented programming language, or in assembly or machine language if desired; and in any case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language. Suitable processors include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory and/or a random access memory. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, such as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), and flash memory devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM). Any of the foregoing may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, specially designed ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits).