DoorCam: Revolutionizing Home Security with a Wireless Over-the-Door Smart Camera

An Innovative Design by Chanwoo Lee & DongHun Yun

DoorCam is the award-winning world's first and only wireless, over-the-door smart camera that can be placed over any door, inside or outside, to provide real-time and recorded HD video for enhanced security. It consists of three key parts: the Outdoor Camera, Center Bracket, and Indoor Body. The white polycarbonate shell of the Outdoor Camera and Indoor Body is shatter-resistant and thinner than standard plastic, improving Wi-Fi radio reception and network connectivity compared to metal shells. The metal Center Bracket is deburred and only 1mm thick, ensuring a secure fit over most doors without causing any damage.

The design of DoorCam was realized using CAD software during concept development. After physical prototype testing, the different modules were built using surface mount technology. The mainboard was constructed with a polycarbonate housing, and the final product underwent thorough software and firmware testing at an aging station. Sample tests were conducted before shipping according to AQL standards.

DoorCam's unique feature is its indoor Wi-Fi connection, with the Wi-Fi chipset and antenna housed inside the back body that hangs inside the house. This design choice improves alert delays, live feed quality, and recording performance. The PIR motion sensor detects activity at the door and sends push notifications to alert users. With any smart device, users can see, hear, and talk to visitors live from anywhere.

DoorCam was designed to address the security needs of all homes, including rental properties with strict regulations. By allowing the camera to hang over the door without violating tenant rules, DoorCam provides a solution for reducing crime rates in rental properties. Additionally, the design ensures optimal Wi-Fi signal strength by bringing the Wi-Fi chipset and antenna inside the house, overcoming the interference caused by thick building materials.

The DoorCam project spanned two years and was based in South Korea. The design team, led by CEO Charles Koo, Senior VP Moon Chul Lee, CTO Soo Woo Lee, and Managing Director Paul Lee, overcame various creative, technical, and research challenges to bring this innovative design to life.

DoorCam's technical specifications include dimensions of the Outdoor Camera (119.89 mm x 41.91 mm x 42.42 mm), Center Bracket (35.05 mm to 54.86 mm), and Indoor Body (91.95 mm x 39.88 mm x 184.91 mm).

The exceptional design of DoorCam has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Security, Safety, and Surveillance Products Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. DoorCam's innovative features and contribution to improving quality of life make it a truly remarkable design.