GB2620301A

GB2620301A - A window or door leaf system

Info

Publication number: GB2620301A
Application number: GB2312818.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Laporta Giovanni
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2019-03-27
Filing date: 2019-03-27
Publication date: 2024-01-03
Anticipated expiration: 2039-03-27
Also published as: GB202312818D0; GB2620301B

Abstract

A push-to-unlock type handle assembly is suitable for operating a latch mechanism of a window or door leaf. The handle assembly includes a handle grip 51 moveable between a closed and an open position. A catch 88 is movable between a first position, in which the handle grip is locked, and a second position, in which the handle grip is free to move. A push button (24, fig 2) is operable to drive the catch 88 from the first position to the second position. An electromechanical lock 90 is included for locking the leaf in a closed position. The electromechanical lock has a blocking member moveable between a blocking configuration, in which the catch 88 is blocked from moving from its first position to its second position, and a non-blocking configuration, in which the catch is free to move. The blocking member may be a solenoid activated by a magnet. The assembly may be configured to receive a signal from a remote control, such as a smartphone.

Description

A window or door leaf system

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a window or door leaf system comprising an openable window or door leaf mountable in a frame. The invention also relates to an electrical connector for mounting to a window or door leaf, a method of manufacturing a window or door leaf system and a spindle system for a window or door leaf.

Background to the Invention

With the wide-spread use of computers and mobile devices has come an increased presence of home automation. Current home automation systems include sensor devices for monitoring security of windows / doors and also actuator devices for remotely locking / unlocking windows! doors using mobile devices etc. Many of these devices require power in order to be able to operate. For devices that are mains powered, this requires unsightly routing of power cables on doors / windows. For devices that are battery powered, this requires batteries to be mounted on doors! windows, which is also unsightly.

Summary of Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising a window or door leaf, said leaf being mountable in a frame and moveable between closed and open positions, the system further comprising an electrical connector for electrically connecting a first electrical member, mounted to the leaf at a first position, and a second electrical member, mounted to the leaf at a second position, at least part of the electrical connector being premounted to the leaf.

The first electrical member may be a power source, electrical device or electrical component. The second electrical member may be a power source, electrical device or electrical component. The system may further comprise a first electrical member connected at a first end of the electrical connector and a second electrical member connected at a second end of the electrical connector. The electrical connector allows first and second electrical members mounted to the leaf to be in electrical communication with one another.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising a window or door leaf, said leaf being mountable in a frame and moveable between closed and open positions, the leaf comprising a plurality of leaf edge members arranged to receive a glazing unit, each leaf edge member having an inner face that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf, the system further comprising an electrical connector for electrically connecting a first electrical member, mounted to the leaf at a first position, and a second electrical member, mounted to the leaf at a second position, the electrical connector being mounted to the leaf such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of at least one of the leaf edge members.

The electrical connector may be mounted to the leaf such that it extends along at least part of the inners face of one, two, three or four leaf edge members. Preferably the electrical connector is mounted to the leaf such that it extends along at least part of the inner faces of three leaf edge members. Each leaf edge member has a longitudinal axis, the electrical connector being mounted to the leaf such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of at least one of the leaf edge members, substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the leaf edge member. In some embodiments the electrical connector may be mounted such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of first and second adjacent leaf edge members. In other embodiments the electrical connector may be mounted such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of first, second and third adjacent leaf edge members.

Preferably the electrical connector is premounted to the leaf.

Preferably the leaf comprises a plurality of leaf edge members arranged to receive a glazing unit, each leaf edge member having an inner face that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf, the electrical connector being mounted to the leaf such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of at least one of the leaf edge members.

The window or door leaf may comprise suitable fixing means for fixing the electrical connector to the leaf. The glazing unit will typically be installed on site, after the frame and leaf have been mounted in a window or door aperture. The corresponding edge(s) of the glazing unit will cover the electrical connector once the glazing unit has been installed in the leaf. In this way the electrical connector cannot be tampered with once the window or door has been fully installed.

Preferably the leaf comprises a first aperture in one of the leaf edge members for receiving the part of the electrical connector or at least part of the first electrical member therethrough. The first aperture is preferably in the inner face of the leaf edge member that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf. The first electrical member may be a terminal holder comprising a first electrical terminal thereon. The first electrical member is preferably located at a first end of the electrical connector in use. The aperture for receiving the first electrical member is suitably sized and shaped to receive at least part of the first electrical member therethrough.

Preferably the leaf comprises a second aperture in one of the leaf edge members for receiving part of the electrical connector or at least part of the second electrical member therethrough. The second aperture is preferably in the inner face of the leaf edge member that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf. The second electrical member may be a component housing unit assembly. The part of the second electrical member that extends through the second aperture in the leaf may be an extension lead of the second electrical member, for connecting the second electrical member to the electrical connector. The component housing unit assembly may house a power source such as at least one battery, which is connectable to the electrical connector in use. Power sources other than batteries may be used. For example the power source may comprise means for generating solar power. In addition to a power source such as a battery, the housing of the component housing may contain at least one sensor. The aperture for receiving the component housing unit assembly is suitably sized and shaped to receive at least part of the component housing unit assembly therethrough so that the component housing unit assembly may be housed within said leaf edge member. Said first and/or second apertures in the leaf may be formed in the leaf at the leaf manufacturing stage (for example in the factory where the leaf is being manufactured). Alternatively said first and/or second apertures may be formed in the leaf on site at the time of installation of the leaf in a door or window aperture (for example by drilling).

Preferably the electrical connector has first and second ends and an electromechanical connector at its first and/or second ends, the or each electromechanical connector being for connection to an electromechanical connector associated with the electrical member for connection with the corresponding end of the electrical connector. Electromechanical connection between the electrical connector and the first and/or second electrical member may be via plug connection. The term "plug connection" may be understood in this context to mean in particular a positive-fit connection between two components. One of the electrical connector and electrical member may have a male plug connector and the other may have a female plug connector. The system may further comprise a first and/or second electrical member. Said first and/or second electrical members may be fixed to the leaf via any suitable fixing means, such as adhesive or interference fit in a corresponding aperture for the electrical member. The system is modular in that whilst all windows/doors may have an electrical connector premounted, different electrical members may be provided for connection at each end of the electrical connector, depending on the function that is desired for the system.

Preferably the first and/or second electrical member includes an extension lead for connection with an end of the electrical connector, the extension lead having an electromechanical connector at its end for connection to a corresponding electromechanical connector on the corresponding end of the electrical connector.

A kit for system for a window or door according to any aspect of the invention described above may be provided comprising a plurality of electrical connectors of differing lengths for use with a system according to any aspect of the invention described above. Therefore an electrical connector of suitable length can be selected for mounting to the leaf depending on factors such as the positions of the apertures for receiving each of the electrical members and/or the size of the leaf.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided an electrical connector for mounting to a window or door leaf of a system according to any aspect of the invention(s) described above, wherein the electrical connector is configured to be mounted to the leaf and the length of the electrical connector is selected to extend between the aperture for receiving the first electrical member and the aperture for receiving the second electrical member.

A kit for system for a window or door according to any aspect of the invention described above may be provided comprising an electrical connector for mounting to a window or door leaf of a system according to any aspect of the invention(s) described above, wherein the electrical connector is configured to be mounted to the leaf and the length of the electrical connector is selected to extend between the aperture for receiving the first electrical member and the aperture for receiving the second electrical member, the kit further comprising at least one electrical member according to any aspect described herein, the at least one electrical member being connectable to the electrical connector.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a system according to any any aspect of the invention(s) described above, the leaf comprising a plurality of leaf edge members arranged to receive a glazing unit, each leaf edge member having an inner face that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf, wherein the method comprises mounting an electrical connector such that it extends along at least part of the inner face of at least one of the leaf edge members, the electrical member being for electrically connecting a first and a second electrical member.

Preferably the electrical connector transmits electrical power from a power source to at least one electrical device or component in use said first and/or second apertures.

Preferably the system further includes an electrical member and the leaf has an aperture in one of the leaf edge members for receiving at least part of the electrical member therethrough, the electrical member comprising a component housing unit assembly, the component housing unit assembly comprising a cradle and a cassette, the cradle being configured for receipt in said aperture in the leaf edge member and the cassette being configured for releasable receipt in the cradle, the cassette comprising a housing for storing one or more of a power source, electrical device or electrical component.

The cassette is preferably a hollow housing or cartridge for storing one or more of a power source, electrical device or component.

Preferably the cassette has an on operating state in which an electrical device or component housed in the cassette may draw power from a power source housed in the cassette and an off state in which the electrical device or component does not draw power from said power source, the component housing unit assembly comprising a first sensor configured to activate when the cassette has been installed in the cradle, the cassette being in its off state if the sensor is inactivated and the cassette being configured to convert

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to its on state when the sensor is activated. The cassette is therefore configured to only draw power from the power source to power the electrical device or component therein once the cassette is installed in the cradle. This prevents the battery/ies in the cassette draining unnecessarily. Preferably the sensor is configured to activate when the cassette has been installed in the cradle is a push switch. Preferably the push switch is mounted on an external surface of the cassette that is received within the cradle when installed therein.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a component housing unit assembly for a window or door having a leaf mountable in a frame, the component housing unit assembly comprising a cradle and a cassette, the cradle being configured for receipt in an aperture in leaf or frame and the cassette being configured for releasable receipt in the cradle, the cassette comprising a housing for storing one or more of a power source, electrical device or component, the cassette having an on operating state in which an electrical device or component housed in the cassette may draw power from a power source housed in the cassette and an off state in which the electrical device or component does not draw power from said power source, the component housing unit assembly comprising a first sensor configured to activate when the cassette has been installed in the cradle, the cassette being in its off state if the sensor is not activated and the cassette being configured to convert to its on state when the sensor is activated.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a spindle system for a window or door leaf, the system comprising: a rotatable spindle; an electrical terminal holder; wherein the spindle is engageable with a drive mechanism for driving a latch mechanism for the leaf, the spindle comprising a first electrical contact thereon, the electrical terminal holder comprising a first terminal thereon which is arranged such that it is contactable with the first electrical contact on the spindle in use. The terminal holder or spindle may be connectable to a power source in use. In preferred embodiments the terminal holder is connectable to a power source in use. The terminal holder may be an electrical member powered by a power source via said electrical connector.

Preferably the system is for transmitting electrical power to at least one electrical device or component, the first electrical contact on the spindle comprising a first conducting ring that is carried by the spindle and which rotates as the spindle rotates, the spindle further comprising means for electrically connecting the first conducting ring to an electrical device or component, the first terminal of the terminal holder being arranged such that it is contactable with the first electrical contact on the spindle in use such that power may be supplied to the at least one electrical device or component via the spindle. The first conducting ring preferably has a substantially cylindrical outer surface. As the spindle rotates the first terminal makes sliding contact with the first conducting ring.

Preferably the spindle further comprises a second conducting ring that is carried by the spindle and which rotates as the spindle rotates and means for electrically connecting the second conducting ring to the at least one electrical device or component, the second conducting ring being insulated from the first conducting ring, the system further comprising a second terminal arranged such that it is contactable with the second conducting ring in use such that power may be supplied to the electrical device or component via the spindle. Suitably one of the first and second terminals is a positive electrical terminal and the other is a negative electrical terminal. The first and/or second conducting ring preferably comprises a sleeve that is received around the spindle. Said sleeve has a longitudinal axis parallel with the longitudinal axis of the spindle. Instead of comprising a sleeve, one of the first or second conducting rings may be integral with the spindle, at least part of the spindle being electrically conducting in order that said conducting ring may be electrically connected to the electrical device or component via the electrically conducting spindle.

Preferably the second terminal is mounted on the terminal holder, the second terminal being insulated from the first terminal. Preferably the means for electrically connecting the first conducting ring to the electrical device or component includes a first fixed conducting ring which is fixed relative to the spindle and means for electrically connecting the first conducting ring and the first fixed conducting ring, the first fixed conducting ring having an aperture for receiving the spindle therethrough in use. Preferably the means for electrically connecting the second conducting ring to the electrical device or component includes a second fixed conducting ring which is fixed relative to the spindle and means for electrically connecting the second conducting ring and the second fixed conducting ring, the second fixed conducting ring having an aperture for receiving the spindle therethrough in use, the second fixed conducting ring being insulated from the first fixed conducting ring.

The or each fixed conducting ring need not be circular, but each is preferably substantially circular in shape. The means for electrically connecting the first conducting ring to the

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electrical device or component may preferably include an elongate electrically conducting rod that electrically connects with the first conducting ring and the first fixed conducting ring in use and which is mounted to the spindle in use. The terminal holder may comprise a first arm, the first terminal extending along at least part of the arm, wherein part of the first contact terminal the first conducting ring in use. The second terminal may also be mounted similarly on the first arm of the terminal holder to contact the second conducting ring in use.

Preferably the terminal holder comprises a pair of arms, one of which sits below the spindle and one of which sits above the spindle in use, the first terminal extending along at least part of each of the pair of arms, wherein the arms are configured so that the spindle fits between the arms, with part of the first terminal contacting the first conducting ring from above and part of the first contact contacting the first conducting ring from below in use. Similarly, in embodiments in which the second terminal is also mounted on the terminal holder, the second terminal preferably extends along at least part of each of the pair of arms, with part of the second terminal contacting the second conducting ring from above and part of the second contact contacting the second conducting ring from below in use.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising a window or door leaf as described above incorporating a spindle system as described above.

In any of the systems as described above the window or door may have a latch mechanism for holding the leaf closed, the latch mechanism being moveable between a secured configuration and an unsecured configuration, and wherein the system further comprises at least one sensor connected to one end of the electrical connector in use, said sensor being supplied with electrical power from a power source via the electrical connector in use, said sensor being for detecting whether the latch mechanism is in the secured or unsecured configuration.

Preferably the sensor comprises a switch for detecting whether the latch mechanism is in the secured or unsecured configuration. The switch is suitably a terminal holder on which is mounted switch terminals.

Preferably the latch mechanism comprises a rotatable spindle that is engageable with a drive mechanism for driving the latch mechanism, the spindle being rotatable between a secured position wherein the spindle is in a first angular position and an unsecured position wherein the spindle is in a second angular position, the spindle comprising a first electrical contact mounted on the spindle, the switch comprising first and second terminals, the first and second terminals being arranged such that they are contactable with the first electrical contact in use.

Suitably, the latch mechanism will be in its secured configuration when the spindle is in its secured position and the latch mechanism will be in its unsecured configuration when the spindle is in its unsecured position. The switch may be configured such that the first and second terminals contact the first electrical contact, thus completing a circuit, when the spindle is in a predetermined position. The parts may be arranged such that the predetermined position of the spindle is the unsecured position or the secured position.

When the first and second terminals contact the first electrical contact, the switch is caused to output a signal indicating that the spindle is in the predetermined position. In this way, the switch can be used as a sensor to determine whether the latch mechanism is in the predetermined position, which may be its secured or unsecured configuration. In this embodiment the switch effectively forms a double break type switch having first and second terminals which are bridged by the first electrical contact to complete the circuit when the spindle is in the predetermined position. In preferred embodiments the switch comprises a pair of arms, one of which sits below the spindle and one of which sits above the spindle in use, the first and second terminals each extending along at least part of each of the pair of arms. In such embodiments the spindle preferably comprises first and second electrical contacts arranged on opposing sides of the spindle, the arms of the switch being configured so that the spindle fits between the arms, with part of each of the first and second terminals contacting the first contact from below and part of the first and second terminals contacting the second contact from above.

In other embodiments the switch comprises a push switch.

Preferably the latch mechanism comprises a moveable element which is moveable between a first position and a second position, the moveable element being caused to move from the first position to the second position when the latch mechanism converts from the secured configuration to the unsecured configuration or vice versa, the switch comprising at least a first resilient armature that is caused to complete a switch circuit when the moveable element is in a predetermined position, the predetermined position being one of the first and second positions. Preferably the moveable element is caused to move from the first position to the second position when the latch mechanism converts from the unsecured configuration to the secured configuration. The moveable element preferably engages the first resilient armature when the moveable element has moved to the predetermined position, activating the switch (i.e. completing the sensing circuit). In such embodiments, as the moveable element engages the switch, when the moveable element is in the predetermined position, it causes the first resilient armature to contact another switch contact, completing the switch circuit. The switch may have first and second resilient armatures that are caused to contact one another when the moveable element is in its predetermined position. The latch mechanism may include a stop surface which the first and second resilient armatures are pushed against by the moveable element as the moveable element moves to the predetermined position, causing the resilient armatures to contact one another.

In preferred embodiments the latch mechanism comprises a rotatable spindle that is engageable with a drive mechanism for driving the latch mechanism, and the moveable element comprises a rotary drive member which is driven by the spindle. The rotary drive member may be a cam, pinion or lever. Preferably the rotary drive member is a pinion.

The pinion may comprise a quadrant/sector of a pinion gear. In preferred embodiments the latch mechanism comprises a rotatable spindle that is engageable with a rotary drive member coupled to a drive rail in use for converting rotational movement of the spindle to linear movement of the drive rail, the moveable element comprising the drive rail.

In other embodiments the switch comprises a reed switch. Alternatively the reed switch may be a magnetometer. Preferably the system further comprises a moveable element which is moveable between a first position and a second position, the moveable element being caused to move from the first position to the second position when the latch mechanism converts from the secured configuration to the unsecured configuration or vice versa, the moveable element having a magnet mounted thereon such that it is carried by the moveable element as it moves between its first and second positions. The reed switch is preferably positioned so that movement of the magnet on the moveable element between its first and second positions converts the state of the reed switch in order that the status of the latch mechanism may be monitored. The magnet may be mounted to a moveable element that rotates as the handle grip of a handle assembly rotates, such as a spindle or rotary drive member. The magnet is preferably positioned so that it will be in a first position when the latch mechanism is in the secured configuration and a second position when the latch mechanism is in the unsecured configuration, the magnet being at different distances from the reed switch when it is in the first and second positions and the system being configured such that the reed switch is activated when the magnet is in one of its first or second position and deactivated when the magnet is in the other of the first or second position.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a terminal holder for a handle assembly for a window or door, the terminal holder comprising a pair of arms, one of which is arranged to be below a spindle of the handle assembly and one of which is arranged to be above the spindle in use, the terminal holder further comprising first and second terminals, the arms being configured such that the spindle fits between the arms, the first and second terminals being contactable with the spindle. Preferably the terminal holder is for use with any system as described above.

The electrical connector mounted to the leaf as described above may be used to power a range of devices mounted to the leaf. One example is a sensor for determining the position of the door or window handle. In such embodiments the window or door has a latch mechanism for holding the leaf closed, the latch mechanism comprising a rotatable spindle that is engageable with a drive mechanism for driving the latch mechanism, wherein the system further comprises at least one sensor connected at one end of the electrical connector, the at least one sensor being supplied with electrical power from a power source via the electrical connector in use, the at least one sensor being configured for outputting signals relating to the angular position of the spindle. By using a sensor to detect angular position of the spindle, the configuration of the latch mechanism can be monitored (e.g. whether it is secured, unsecured etc). The at least one sensor is preferably supplied with electrical power in use from a power source via the electrical connector and the spindle. The spindle is preferably rotatable between at least two discrete angular positions, each of which corresponds to a particular configuration of the latch mechanism.

The spindle is preferably rotatable between first and second positions, the first position corresponding to a secured configuration of the latch mechanism and the second position corresponding to an unsecured configuration of the latch mechanism. The at least one sensor may be configured to output corresponding signals in order to allow determination of whether the spindle is in one or more predetermined positions. For example, the at least one sensor may be configured to output corresponding signals in order to allow determination of whether the spindle is in its first or second positions.

In other embodiments the spindle may be rotatable between first, second and third positions, one of the positions corresponding to a secured configuration of the latch mechanism, one of the positions corresponding to a configuration of the latch mechanism in which the leaf may be turned relative to its frame, and one of the positions corresponding to a configuration of the latch mechanism in which the leaf may be tilted relative to the frame. The at least one sensor may be configured to output corresponding signals in order to allow determination of whether the spindle is in its first, second or third position. This arrangement may be used for 'tilt-and-turn' type windows or doors.

The spindle may be rotatable between a plurality of discrete positions, each position corresponding to a particular configuration of the latch mechanism. For example, the spindle may be rotatable between four discrete positions. One of the positions may correspond to a configuration of the latch mechanism in which the leaf may be reversed, e.g. by rotating the leaf approximately 180 degrees so that the surface of the leaf which typically faces outside can be rotated to face inside. This allows the outer face of the leaf to be cleaned by a user which is standing on the inside of the window.

The at least one sensor preferably comprises a switch. The sensor preferably comprises a pivot switch having a pivoting actuator, the system further comprising a sleeve that is receivable around the spindle, the sleeve having a first formation thereon, the pivoting actuator being contactable with the sleeve and the sleeve rotating, as the spindle rotates, relative to the pivoating actuator, the pivoting actuator being caused to pivot at least once as the formation on the sleeve rotates into proximity with the pivoting actuator, the pivot switch being configured for outputting signals to indicate when the formation rotates into proximity with the pivoting actuator. The formation may be a groove.

Preferably the sensor comprises a pivot switch having a pivoting actuator, the system further comprising a sleeve that is receivable around the spindle, the sleeve having a first radial groove, said groove being positioned relative to the spindle such that the pivoting actuator is disposed in the groove when the spindle is in a first predetermined position, the switch being configured for outputting signals to indicate whether the pivoting actuator is disposed in the groove.

Preferably the pivoting actuator is contactable with the sleeve in use. In such embodiments the sleeve rotates, as the spindle rotates, relative to the pivoting actuator.

Output signals from the switch can be used to determine if the spindle is in the first predetermined position. The first predetermined position of the spindle suitably corresponds to a particular configuration of the latch mechanism (such as a secured, unsecured configuration etc). The sleeve may have two or more radial grooves, each groove corresponding to a predetermined position of the spindle, each groove being positioned relative to the spindle such that the pivoting actuator engages in said groove when the spindle is in its corresponding predetermined position. The pivoting actuator may be pivotable in a first direction and a second opposing direction and the system may be configured to determine the direction of any pivoting motion of the pivoting actuator.

The system may also be configured to detect the number of successive times the pivoting actuator enters a radial groove. In this way the system may be configured to determine the position of the spindle if there are three or more positions that the spindle can be rotated between.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a sensor system for a window or door leaf, the leaf being mountable in a frame and moveable between closed and open positions, the window or door having a latch mechanism for holding the leaf closed, the latch mechanism comprising a rotatable spindle that is engageable with a drive mechanism for driving the latch mechanism, the system comprising a sensor comprising a pivot switch having a pivoting actuator, the system further comprising a sleeve that is receivable around the spindle, the sleeve having a first radial groove, said groove being positioned relative to the spindle such that the pivoting actuator is disposed in the groove when the spindle is in a first predetermined position, the switch being configured for outputting signals to indicate whether the pivoting actuator is disposed in the groove.

Preferably the system further comprises a handle assembly for operating a latch mechanism of the leaf, the handle assembly comprising at least one push switch, the push switch being supplied with electrical power from a power source via the electrical connector in use, said at least one push switch being configured such that it can be activated by pushing of at least part of the handle assembly, the system being configured to enter an alert mode when the push switch is activated for equal to or more than a predetermined duration. When said at least part of the handle assembly is pushed, at least part of the handle assembly engages the push switch, activating the push switch. The switch is preferably supplied with electrical power in use from a power source via the electrical connector and the spindle. In preferred embodiments, when the system is in alert mode the system may be caused to activate an output device to indicate that the system is in alert mode, such as an audible alarm. The predetermined time for pushing the switch to enter alert mode should be long enough that alert mode is not entered inadvertently, e.g. 5 seconds. Said push switch may therefore be used as a fire alarm or panic alarm.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a handle assembly for a window or door leaf, the handle assembly comprising at least one push switch configured such that it can be activated by pushing of at least part of the handle assembly, the system being configured to enter an alert mode when the push switch is activated for equal to or more than a predetermined duration.

Preferably the system further comprises an electromechanical lock for locking the leaf in a closed position, the electromechanical lock being supplied with electrical power from a power source via the electrical connector in use.

Preferably system further comprises a push to unlock type handle assembly for operating a latch mechanism of the leaf, the handle assembly comprising a handle grip moveable between at least a closed position and a first open position, a catch moveable between a first position in which the handle grip is prevented from being moved from the closed position and a second position in which the handle grip is free to be moved from the closed position, and a push button operable to drive the catch from the first position to the second position, the electromechanical lock comprising a blocking member moveable between a blocking configuration, in which the catch is blocked from moving from its first position to its second position, and a non-blocking configuration in which the catch is free to be moved from its first position to its second position.

The lock is preferably supplied with electrical power in use from a power source via the electrical connector and the spindle.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a push to unlock type handle assembly for operating a latch mechanism of a leaf, the handle assembly comprising a handle grip moveable between at least a closed position and a first open position, a catch moveable between a first position in which the handle grip is prevented from being moved from the closed position and a second position in which the handle grip is free to be moved from the closed position, and a push button operable to drive the catch from the first position to the second position, the electromechanical lock comprising a blocking member moveable between a blocking configuration, in which the catch is blocked from moving from its first position to its second position, and a non-blocking configuration in which the catch is free to be moved from its first position to its second position.

Preferably the system further comprises a lock having a locking cam adapted to operate a locking bolt upon rotation of the cam, and a lock status sensor for detecting the locked or unlocked state of the lock, the lock status sensor being electrically connected to an electrical member via said electrical connector in use. Preferably the system comprises a cam follower which is moveable upon rotation of the cam between a first position when the lock is in a secured configuration, and a second position when the lock is in an unsecured configuration, the lock status sensor being configured for detecting the position of the cam follower. In preferred embodiments cam follower moves linearly in use between its first position and its second position. Preferably the lock status sensor comprises a switch for detecting at least one predetermined position of a moveable element of a latch mechanism. The switch preferably comprises a push switch. Suitably the switch may comprise at least a first resilient armature that is caused to complete a switch circuit when the cam follower is in a predetermined position, the predetermined position being one of the first and second positions.

The lock status sensor may comprise a reed switch, the cam follower carrying a magnet thereon. Suitably the reed switch is activated, thereby generating a signal indicative of the status of the lock, when the cam follower is in a predetermined position. Instead of reed switch, the lock status sensor may be a magnetometer.

The present invention may include a kit comprising any sets of apparatus disclosed herein. For example, a kit may be provided comprising at least two different types of apparatus as disclosed herein or a plurality of a single type of apparatus as described herein.

The term latch mechanism as used herein can refer to any mechanism involved in latching a leaf to a frame, which may include a holding means for holding a leaf relative to a frame such as latch, a lockable latch, lock bolt, or a lock mechanism etc. In the context of the present invention, the term "mounting", "connecting" means connecting or joining, either directly or by means of an intermediate or auxiliary element.

The term "engage" as used herein refers to interlocking or mating of components and "disengage" refers to unmating or mechanical uncoupling of components.

It is to be understood that the mere use of the term "first" does not require that there be any "second," and the mere use of the term "second" does not require that there be any "third," etc. When used in this specification and the claims, the term "comprsises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps are integers are inluded. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a window incorporating an electrical connector of the present invention; Figure 1 B shows a perspective view of the outerside of a leaf edge member of a leaf with a cassette shown exploded from its cradle in the leaf edge member; Figures 10 to lE show views of the component housing unit assembly, 1C being a front exploded view, 1 D being a rear perspective view of the assembled assembly and 1 E being a rear exploded view; Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of a handle assembly, a first electrical member and a second electrical member; Figure 3 shows a partially exploded perspective view of a handle assembly and associated terminal holder; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the forward end of the washer of the handle assembly as view; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a handle assembly, latch mechanism and sensor for determining the angular position of the spindle 60' of the handle assembly, the handle grip being in a first position; Figure 6A shows a perspective view of the handle assembly of Figure 5, the handle grip being in a second position; Figure 6B shows a close-up perspective view of the sensor of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a handle assembly, latch mechanism and two sensors for determining whether the latch mechanism is in a secured or unsecured configuration, the latch mechanism being in a secured configuration in the figure; Figure 8 shows the assembly of Figure 8 wherein the assembly is being converted to its unsecured configuration; Figure 9 shows an exploded view of a handle assembly, latch mechanism, component housing unit assembly and three possible sensors which may be incorporated into the system for monitoring the status of the latch mechanism; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a handle assembly including a sensor for determining the angular position of the spindle, the spindle being shown in a first position; Figure 11 shows the assembly of Figure 10 with the spindle in a second position; Figure 12 shows a close-up view of the sensor of Figure 10; Figure 13 shows a cutaway view of a handle assembly including two fire / panic switches; Figure 14 shows a forward perspective view of the handle casing of the Figure 13 handle assembly, including the catch; Figure 15 shows the Figure 14 assembly, but with the catch removed; Figure 16 shows the catch of the Figure 13 assembly; Figure 17 shows a rearward perspective view of the handle casing of the Figure 13 handle assembly; Figure 18 shows a cutaway view of a handle assembly including an electromechanical lock; Figure 19 shows a close-up view of the assembly of Figure 18; Figure 20 shows a perspective view of the PCB of the Figure 18 assembly; Figure 21 shows a diagrammatic view of a door lock assembly with the mechanism in a secured configuration; Figure 22 shows a view of the lock assembly of Figure 21, with the mechanism in an unsecured configuration.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

The present embodiments represent currently the best ways known to the applicant of putting the invention into practice. But they are not the only ways in which this can be achieved. They are illustrated, and they will now be described, by way of example only. Common features between the assemblies of the different figures are referenced by common reference numerals.

Referring to Figure 1, a window system 10 is shown (but it will be understood that the invention may apply equally to a door). The window system comprises a sash or leaf 12 mounted in a fixed window frame 14. The window leaf 12 and frame 14 are made from extruded frame sections made of a material such as unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) or aluminium. Like any typical window, this assembly has a fixed frame 14 made up of four extruded frame members, which are fixed together to form a rectangular frame in which a leaf can be mounted to be openable and closeable relative to the frame. The leaf 12 comprises four leaf edge members 12a-12d arranged in a rectangular shape (a top 12a, left side 12b, bottom 12c and right side 12d leaf edge member). The leaf edge members are arranged end to end, to form a closed perimeter glass fixing chamber for receiving a rectangular glazing unit, with a leaf edge member running along each of the four sides of the rectangular glazing unit. The glazing unit, which would typically be installed on site, after the frame 14 has been installed in the window aperture and the leaf has been installed in the frame 14, is not shown in Figure 1. Window systems of the type shown in Figure 1 will typically also have a hinge or stay (not shown in the figures) mounted between the bottom leaf edge member 12c and the corresponding bottom frame member to support the leaf as it opens, and optionally another hinge or stay on the opposing side of the leaf. The leaf has a handle assembly 50 mounted on the leaf for operating a latch mechanism of the leaf.

Each leaf edge member 12a-12d has an inner face 13a-13d that faces an edge of the glazing unit when installed in the leaf. The system further comprises an electrical connector comprising a connection lead 20 mounted to the leaf 12 in use so that it extends along at least part of the inner face 13a-13d of one or more of the leaf edge members 12a- 12d. The connection lead 20 is shown exploded from the leaf, however a broken line 20' along the inner faces 13b, 13c, 13d of leaf edge members 12b, 12c, 12d, shows where the connection lead would be mounted on the leaf in use. Although the broken line 20' is visible along the right leaf edge member 12d in Figure 1, it will be understood that once in place on the inner face 13d of the right leaf edge member 12d it would in fact be blocked from view in Figure 1 by the right leaf edge member 12d.

The connection lead 20 is for use in electrically connecting a first electrical member 30 mounted to the leaf 12 at a first position with a second electrical member 40 mounted to the leaf 12 at a second position. The second position may be remote (i.e. distanced) from the first position. For example, the connection lead 20 may connect a sensor mounted at the window handle with a battery mounted elsewhere on the leaf where there is space to accommodate the battery in order to supply power to the sensor. In other embodiments, the connection lead may connect a sensor unit mounted at a first position on the leaf to a processor mounted at a second position on the leaf for processing output signals from the sensor unit or to a transmitter mounted at a second position on the leaf for transmitting output signals from the sensor unit, for example.

The connection lead 20 is an elongate, continuous electrical lead having first and second ends. The continuous connection lead may be formed from a single connection length or two or more connection lengths, connected end to end. In the embodiment show in Figure 1, the leaf-mounted connection lead 20 extends from its first end, along part of the left side leaf edge member 12b, then along the bottom leaf edge member 12c, then along part of the right leaf side edge member 12d, terminating at the connection lead's second end.

The connection lead is preferably formed of one or more electrically conducting wires, cables or the like extending parallel with one another, such as a positive wire and a negative wire. The one or more conducting wires or cables may be sheathed in an insulating sheath. Instead of being formed of one or more wires or cables, the connection lead may be formed of one or more elongate strips of electrically conducting foil. The connection lead may be fixed to the inner face of the or each leaf edge member that it is mounted to by suitable fixing means, such as adhesive or cable clips (not shown).

The assembly includes a first aperture 17 in the inner face of one of the leaf edge members for receiving part of the connection lead 20 or part of the first electrical member 30 therethrough and a second aperture 18 (not visible in Figure 1) in the inner face of another of the leaf edge members for receiving the part of connection lead 20 or part of the second electrical member 40 therethrough. In the Figure 1 embodiment the first aperture 17 is in the left side leaf edge member 12b and the second aperture 18 is in the right side leaf edge member 12d. By means of the first and second apertures 17, 18, the first and/or second electrical members 30, 40, or parts of these members, may be housed/mounted in hollow space in the corresponding extruded leaf edge member that the aperture is located in.

In the Figure 1 embodiment, the second electrical member 40 is a component housing unit assembly for housing at least one battery (not visible). It is preferable to use larger batteries to power electrical components, so that the battery or batteries do not need to be replaced or recharged so often. By providing an aperture 18 sized and shaped to receive the component housing unit assembly, the unit may be accommodated in a leaf edge member. The component housing unit assembly 40 may house other components in addition or instead of a battery, such as sensing means. For example, the component housing unit assembly 40 may house a magnetometer, reed switch or other sensing means that may be involved in another monitoring system related to the window/door other than the monitoring systems described directly herein.

In the Figure 1 embodiment, the first electrical member 30 is a terminal holder for supporting terminals for transmitting power to at least one electrical device in the handle assembly 50 via the handle spindle (not visible in Figure 1), as will be described later. By providing an aperture 17 sized and shaped to receive part of the first electrical member 30 therethrough, this assists in locating the first electrical member 30 in alignment with the spindle, for interaction with the spindle.

The connection lead 20 has an electromechanical connector 21, 22 at each of its first and second ends. The electromechanical connectors may be any suitable means for forming a positive fit electrical connection between the end of the connection lead 20 and an electrical member to be connected thereto. In the Figure 1 embodiment, the electromechanical connectors 21, 22 are plug connectors. The connection lead 20 has a female plug connector 21, 22 at each end and the electrical members to be connected thereto each have a male plug connector for connection thereto. The arrangement of the male and female plug connectors could of course be reversed on both or either end of the connection lead, or other types of connection means may be employed.

In the Figure 1 embodiment, each electrical member 30, 40 for connection to the connection lead 20 has a short extension lead 31, 41 extending from it. On the end of each extension lead 31, 41 is a plug connector 32, 42, which in this embodiment is a male plug connector for connection to a female plug connector 21, 22 on the connection lead 20. The extension leads 31, 41, of the electrical members assist in connecting the electrical members 30, 40 to the fixed connection lead 20. The extension leads 31, 41 may be made of flexible cable or may be short rigid links.

In other embodiments, instead of having an electromechanical connection between the first and/or second electrical members 30, 40 and the connection lead 20, the first and/or second electrical members 30, 40 may be integral with the connection lead 20 (i.e. via a non-releasable, hard-wired electrical connection between the electrical member and the connection lead 20). In other embodiments the connection lead 20 may be made up of more than one individual lead, each individual lead within the connection lead 20 being electrically connected, for example via plug connectors.

In the system of Figure 1, the first electrical member 30 is mounted adjacent the handle assembly 50 in order that the first electrical member 30 may interact with the spindle of the handle assembly. In preferred embodiments, any large electrical member at the other end of the connection lead 20 from an electrical member mounted close to the handle assembly 50 will be mounted on the leaf edge member that the leaf is hung from. Accordingly, in the Figure 1 embodiment the leaf is a side hung leaf and the component housing unit assembly 40 is mounted to the right side leaf member 12d, i.e. the leaf edge member opposite the leaf edge member 12b that the handle assembly 50 is mounted on.

In this way, any large electrical member can be located out of the way of any friction hinges / stays etc that may be mounted to the leaf edge members extending between the leaf edge member the handle assembly is mounted to and the leaf edge member that the leaf is hung from, yet still electrically connected to another electrical member remote from it.

For a top hung window the handle assembly 50 would be mounted on the bottom leaf edge member and the component housing unit assembly 40 would preferably be mounted in the top leaf edge member.

The length of the connection lead 20 will be chosen to extend between the mounting locations of the first electrical member 30 and the second electrical member 40. The leaf 12 is suitably manufactured with the connection lead 20 premounted to the leaf 12. During the manufacturing process, the connection lead 20 is mounted to the inner faces 13b, 13c, 13d of the corresponding leaf edge members that extend between the first and second positions on the leaf at which the first and second electrical members are to be mounted.

The connection lead 20 may be fixed to the leaf by any suitable fixing means. Also during the manufacturing process, before or after mounting of the connection lead 20 to the leaf, first and second apertures 17, 18 are created (e.g. by drilling) at the first position and the second position, for receiving the first electrical member and second electrical member respectively. The leaf can then be customised at the factory by mounting of selected first and second electrical members to the leaf. Alternatively, the leaf can be supplied simply with the connection lead 20 mounted to the leaf 12 and the first and second electrical members 30, 40 to be mounted to the leaf on site, in the corresponding predrilled apertures 17, 18. For example, the first and second electrical members 30, 40 may be mounted to the leaf on site, when the leaf is being installed in a window or door aperture.

Once the electrical members 30, 40 are installed, the glazing unit (not shown) is installed in the leaf 12. The edges of the glazing unit cover the connection lead 20, hiding the connection lead 20 from view, so as to provide a tidy exterior to the leaf and also preventing tampering to the connection lead 20.

The component housing unit assembly 40 will now be further described with reference to Figures 1B to 1E. The component housing unit assembly 40 comprises a cradle 43 in which a cassette 44 is removably receivable. Referring to Figure 18, the cradle 43 is configured to be premounted to a leaf edge member of the leaf 12 and the cassette 44 is configured to be releasably receivable in the cradle 43. In Figure 1B, the cradle 43 is shown in leaf edge member 12b, however it will be understood that in the embodiment of Figure 1A, the window assembly is arranged such that the cradle 43 will be mounted in leaf edge member 12d.

Referring to Figures 1A and 18, the cradle 43 is sized to be received in a leaf edge member, the cradle 43 being received in aperture 19 in the outer face of right side leaf edge member 12d in the present embodiment. The cradle 43 has a recess 45 that is sized and shaped to receive and support the cassette 44. The recess 45 is adapted to slideably receive the cassette 44 therein and to allow removal of the cassette 44 by a user. The cassette 44 comprises a hollow housing portion 44a configured to receive one or more electrical components. Extension lead 41 extends from cradle 43, spanning between a plug connector 42 and a contact within recess 45 (not visible in the figures), which is preferably in the base of the recess. Instead of having an extension lead, the cradle 43 may be hard-wired to the connection lead 20 or the connection lead 20 may connect to a plug connector on the body of the cradle 43. The cassette 44 has a corresponding contact 46 on an outer surface which is configured and aligned to engage the contact in the recess 45 of the cradle 43 when the cassette 44 is installed in the cradle 43. The contacts on the cradle 43 and cassette 44 may comprise any suitable means for connecting electrical component(s) housed within the cassette to the extension lead 41, such as plug connectors. The contacts on the cradle 43 and cassette 44 are positioned so that the contact on the cassette engages the contact in the recess in the cradle when the cassette is installed in the cradle.

The recess 45 of the cradle has a rectangular opening sized and shaped to receive the rectangular cross-sectioned housing portion 44a of the cassette. The cradle 45 has a flanged portion 43a around the opening of the recess 45. The cassette has a flanged portion 44b that sits against the flanged portion 43a of the cradle when installed therein. The cassette 44 is preferably held in the cradle 43 via an interference fit. The cassette 44 may have one or more formations on a side surface that engage with corresponding formations (not visible in the figures) in the recess 45 of the cradle to assist with the interference fit. In order to remove the cassette 44 from the cradle 43, the flanged portion 44b of the cassette can be grasped by the user in order to pull the cassette away from the cradle. Alternatively/in addition the cassette and cradle may include a suitable ejection mechanism for ejecting the cassette from the cradle.

During the manufacturing of the leaf 12 the cradle 43 is premounted in aperture 19 in the leaf 12, ready to receive the cassette 44 at any point in future when the user wants to insert the cassette into the cradle to connect the electrical components in the cassette with a first electrical member at the first end of connection lead 20. Aperture 19 is an outer aperture in the outer face 15d of the right side leaf edge member 12d, aperture 19 being accessible when the leaf is opened, but being blocked from access by the frame 14 when the leaf is closed. Aperture 19 is sized and shaped to receive the cradle 43. The cradle 43 is inserted in aperture 19 when the cradle 43 is being installed and the extension lead 41 extending from the cradle 43 extends through aperture 18 in the inner face 13d of leaf edge member 12d so that it can be connected with the corresponding end of the connection lead 20. The extension lead 41 need not extend through aperture 18, as long as the extension lead 41 is accessible via aperture 18 for the connection lead 20 to be connected to extension lead 41 of the cradle 41.

A faceplate 9 is shown on the outer face of the leaf edge member that the cradle 43 is mounted in is shown in Figure 1B and it will be understood that if the cradle 43 is to be mounted in the leaf at a position where there is a faceplate, a corresponding aperture will be included in the faceplate to accommodate the cradle. The cradle 43 may mounted nonreleasably in the leaf 12 as the cradle 43 does not need to be removed from the leaf, whereas the cassette 44 is designed to be easily mountable and de-mountable in the frame.

In preferred embodiments the cassette 44 houses one or more batteries (not visible in the figures) and at least a further electrical component such as a sensor and/or transceiver which can draw power from the one or more batteries. The cassette has two operating states: an ON state and an OFF state. In the on state the at least one electrical component in the cassette draws power from the one or more batteries. In the off state the connection between the electrical component is broken so that the electrical component does not draw power from the one or more batteries. When in the on state, battery power can be wasted if the cassette has not yet been installed to interact with the wider system described herein.

The component housing unit assembly 40 has a first sensor configured to detect when the cassette 44 has been installed in the cradle 43. In the embodiment in Figures 1A to 1E this is a push switch 47 (visible in Figure 1 E) located on the back surface of the cassette that engages the base of recess 45 in the cradle when the cassette is installed in the cradle. When the cassette 44 is at rest the cassette 44 is in its off state. When the switch 47 is activated, the cassette 44 converts to its on state. The switch 47 is activated when the base of recess 45 engages the switch 47, when the cassette has been fully installed in the cradle. In this way, the cassette 44 only converts to its on state when it has been installed in the cradle, thus not wasting power when it is uninstalled. By providing this auto on/off feature, no separate on/off switch is needed on the cassette, which would be difficult for the user to access. The first sensor configured to detect when the cassette 44 has been installed in the cradle 43 may comprise another types of sensor other than a push switch. For example, said first sensor may be a light sensor positioned on a part of the cassette that is received inside the recess 45 in use. In such an embodiment the light sensor causes the cassette to be in its off state if light is detected (i.e. when the cassette is outside the cradle) and on if light is not detected (i.e. when the cassette is installed in the cradle).

Referring to Figure 1 E, the cassette 44 has a battery door 48, which in this embodiment is the back surface of the cassette that engages the base of the recess 45 when the cassette is installed in the cradle. The battery door 48 can be opened to allow access to the inside of the housing portion 44a of the cassette so that batteries can be removed and replaced etc. The battery door 48 can be releasably fixed to the cassette 44 by any suitable means, such as an interference fit.

An example of a first electrical member 30 from the Figure 1 embodiment will now be described, the first electrical member 30 in this example being for transmitting power to at least one electrical device in the handle assembly 50 via the handle spindle. In such an embodiment, the first electrical member is a terminal holder 30 comprising at least one terminal thereon. Referring to Figure 2, an exploded view of the handle assembly 50, terminal holder 30, and component housing unit assembly 40 are shown. The handle assembly 50 is designed for use with a rotatable spindle 60, rotation of which drives latch means (not shown) on the leaf engageable with retainer or catch means (not shown) on the window frame to latch the leaf in its closed position. Rotation of the spindle 60 is driven by a handle grip 51.

Referring to Figure 3, the terminal holder 30 has terminals thereon, each of which contact conducting parts of the spindle 60, which in turn are each electrically connected with contacts on a printed circuit board (PCB) 54 mounted in the handle assembly 50 in use, so that power can be transmitted to the PCB 54 from a battery source mounted in the leaf 12, via the connection lead 20 and via the spindle 60, as will now be described. The handle grip 51 is pivotably mounted to a handle casing 52, and the handle casing 52 is mounted to the leaf via screws or other suitable fixings (not shown) which pass through apertures 53 in the handle casing 52 and PCB 54. The handle casing 52 covers the PCB 54 once both are installed, the PCB forming, or being integral with, a backplate for the handle assembly. The PCB has an aperture that the spindle 60 extends through in use.

The handle assembly 50 has a forward end that faces towards the leaf when assembled and a rearward end that faces away from the leaf when assembled. The spindle 60 has a rearward end, which engages in a recess in a nose portion of the handle grip 51, and a forward end directed away from the handle grip 51 in use. First and second electrical terminals 33, 34 on the terminal holder 30 (one of which is a positive terminal and one of which is a negative terminal) each contact a corresponding electrical contact on the spindle 60, the contacts on the spindle being first and second sleeve-like conducting rings 61, 62 that are received around the spindle 60 so that they rotate as the spindle rotates. The conducting rings 61, 62 each have a longitudinal axis that is parallel with the longitudinal axis A of the spindle 60. The forward end of the spindle 60 is substantially cylindrical in shape, the conducting rings 61, 62 having a substantially circular outer cross-sectional shape. In this way, the first and second terminals 33, 34 on the terminal holder 30 will continuously be in contact the conducting rings 61, 62 as the spindle 60 rotates. The remainder of the spindle is substantially square in cross-section (however it may be other polygonal shapes), in order to key with correspondingly shaped parts of the latch mechanism. First and second conducting rings 61, 62 are preferably arranged side by side along the longitudinal axis of the spindle, at or near the forward end of the spindle 60, the first and second conducting rings 61, 62 being insulated from one another. The first and second terminals 33, 34 on the terminal holder 30 are arranged side by side and insulated from one another, and are positioned to contact the corresponding conducting rings when the assembly is assembled.

The terminal holder 30 has a body which supports at least one, preferably two electrical terminals. The body of the terminal holder 30 has a mouth for receiving the spindle therein, the two electrical terminals being mounted within the mouth of the terminal holder 30 such that the electrical terminals are contactable with the spindle when received therein. In this arrangement, the electrical terminals are contactable with the spindle, whether the spindle is stationary or rotating. The mouth of the terminal holder forms a channel having an opening at its rearward end, at one side, and preferably at its forward end, so that the terminal holder can have a spindle installed in its mouth, for example by advancing the spindle's forward end through the rearward opening of the terminal holder or by advancing the terminal holder towards a spindle so that the spindle enters the mouth of the terminal holder via the side opening of the terminal holder. Once installed, the spindle will extend rearwardly out of the terminal holder, through the rearward opening in the terminal holder. For embodiments in which the terminal holder has an opening in its forward end, as in the embodiment in the figures, the forward end of the spindle may also extend forwardly through the forward opening of the terminal holder when installed. The arrangement described herein allows the terminal holder to be mounted / demounted from a spindle which is mounted in situ on a leaf or for a spindle to be mounted / demounted from a terminal holder which is mounted in situ on a leaf.

The electrical terminals provide a point of connection between wires or other electrical connectors fixed to the terminal holder 30 and other electrically conducting elements which can be brought into contact with the terminals. The body of the terminal holder 30 comprises a pair of arms 35a, 35b, a lower arm 35a being arranged to sit below the forward end of the spindle 60 and an upper arm 35b arranged to sit above the forward end of the spindle 60. The forward end of the spindle 60 fits between upper and lower arms 35b, 35a, with the first and second electrical terminals 33, 34 contacting the corresponding conducting rings 61, 62. The first and second terminals are arranged on the inside of the mouth of the terminal holder to contact the corresponding conducting rings on the spindle in use. Referring to Figure 3, in the present embodiment the first and second electrical terminals 33, 34 each comprise an electrically conducting U-shaped piece, one leg of which extends along the upper surface of the lower arm 35a, and the other leg of which extends along the lower surface of the upper arm 35b. Each electrical terminal 33, 34 is electrically connected to a corresponding conducting wire in the extension lead 31 of the terminal holder 30.

The system further comprises first and second fixed conducting rings 63, 64, which are mounted on the PCB 54 so that they are fixed relative to the spindle 60 as the spindle 60 rotates, with the spindle 60 passing through the first and second fixed conducting rings 63, 64. The first and second fixed conducting rings 63, 64 are concentric, the first fixed conducting ring 63 being an outer ring and the second fixed conducting ring 64 being an inner ring. Each of the fixed conducting rings 63, 64 is electrically connected to circuitry on the PCB 54 so that component(s) on the PCB may be powered by current transmitted by the fixed conducting rings 63, 64.

The spindle 60 includes means for electrically connecting the first and second conducting rings 61, 62 on the spindle to the PCB 54 so that power can be supplied to components on the PCB 54. Referring to Figure 3, the first conducting ring 61 is electrically connected to the outer fixed conducting ring 63 via a conducting leg 65. The forward end of leg 65 contacts the first conducting ring 61, the leg 65 having an elongate body portion that passes through the inside of the second conducting ring 62 and along one side of the spindle 60. The rearward end of leg 65 has a foot portion 65a bent to extend substantially orthogonally to the elongate body portion. The foot portion 65a contacts a first contact spring 66, the foot portion 65a being disposed rearward of the first contact spring 66. The first contact spring 66 is a helical spring having a diameter substantially matching that of the outer fixed conducting ring 63 and being arranged to lie parallel with and contact the outer fixed conducting ring 63 in use so that an electrical connection can be formed between the first conducting ring 61 and the outer fixed conducting ring 63.

The second conducting ring 62 on the spindle contacts a main portion 60a of the spindle 60 which is electrically conducting. Suitable insulating means are provided to insulate the leg 65 from the main portion 60a of the spindle, such as an insulating sleeve around parts of the leg 65 that would otherwise contact the main portion 60a of the spindle. Referring to Figure 2, a contact pin 68 extends from a point on the main portion 60a of the spindle, towards its rearward end, the contact pin 68 extending along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A of the spindle. The contact pin 68 extends sufficiently from the spindle to contact a second contact spring 67. Like the first contact spring 66, the second contact spring 67 is a helical spring, having a diameter substantially matching that of the inner fixed conducting ring 64 and being arranged to lie parallel with and contact the inner fixed conducting ring 64 in use so that an electrical connection can be formed between the second conducting ring 62 and the inner fixed conducting ring 64. Instead of a contact pin 68, the assembly may include a torsion spring with a leg that electrically couples the spindle and the inner fixed conducting ring.

Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the handle assembly includes a washer 55 having a throughbore 55a shaped to receive the spindle 60 therethrough and engage with the spindle 60, the washer 55 being configured to rotate as the spindle 60 rotates. The washer 55 has a forward side having first and second concentric ring shaped recesses therein (an outer and inner recess 56, 57), the outer recess 56 being for receiving the first contact spring 66 and the inner recess 57 being for receiving the second contact spring 67. The washer 55 includes a first slot 58 in one side through which the foot portion 65a of the leg can extend to contact the forward side of the first contact spring 66. The washer 55 includes a second slot 59 in the other side through which the contact pin 68 can extend to contact the forward side of the second contact spring 67. The outer and inner recesses 56, 57 in the washer 55 each have a base, the outer recess 56 having a deeper base relative to the forward end of the washer than the inner recess 57. By means of the stepped bases, the first and second contact springs 66, 67 are spaced apart from one another allowing the leg 65 and contact pin 68 to contact the corresponding contact spring and avoid contact with the other.

In operation, power may be transmitted to components mounted on the PCB 54 in the handle assembly 50 via the spindle 60 and connection lead 20. Referring to Figure 1, the terminal holder 30, connected at the first end of connection lead 20 is mounted in the leaf 12 so that arms 35a, 35b of the terminal holder 30 extend through first aperture 17 into leaf edge member 12b. The first and second electrical terminals 33, 34 on the terminal holder 30 contact the first and second conducting rings 61, 62 respectively. The first and second conducting rings 61, 62 are electrically connected to first and second fixed conducting rings 63, 64 on the PCB 54 so that current from connection lead 20 can be transmitted to the PCB 54 to power components mounted on the PCB. Connection lead 20 may connect the PCB to a power source, for example second electrical member, which in preferred embodiments is a component housing unit assembly for housing one or more batteries.

Some types of sensor that may be connected to a battery power source mounted in the leaf 12 (e.g. a battery power source in a component housing unit assembly 40) using a premounted connection lead 20 of the type described above will now be described. The sensors described below are for determining one or more statuses of the latch mechanism of the leaf.

A first type of sensor is shown in Figures 5, 6A and 6B and is for determining the angular position of the spindle 60' of the handle assembly. As with the previous embodiment, the handle assembly 50 has a rotatable spindle 60', rotation of which drives a latch means on the leaf receivable in a keep on the frame. The sensor for determining the angular position of the spindle 60' may have generally the same structure as the terminal holder 30 shown in the Figure 3 embodiment, and common reference numerals are used for the sensor in Figures 5 and 6 as for the terminal holder in Figure 3.

As with the Figure 3 embodiment, the terminal holder 30 in Figures 5, 6A and 6B comprises a pair of arms 35a, 35b, a lower arm 35a being arranged to sit below the forward end of the spindle 60' and an upper arm 35b arranged to sit above the forward end of the spindle 60'. The terminal holder has first and second electrical terminals 33, 34 (visible in Figure 6B), each comprising an electrically conducting U-shaped piece, one leg of which extends along the upper surface of the lower arm 35a, and the other leg of which extends along the lower surface of the upper arm 35b. Each electrical terminal 33, 34 is electrically connected to a corresponding conducting wire in the extension lead 31, the extension lead in turn having a male plug connector 32 at its end for connection to the connection lead 20.

The spindle 60' is rotatable between a first position shown in Figure 5, wherein the latch mechanism 11 is in a secured configuration, and a second position shown in Figure 6A, wherein the latch mechanism 11 is in an unsecured configuration. The spindle 60' has a substantially square cross-sectional shape and has first and second electrical contacts 69 made of electrically conducting material, one of the contacts 69 mounted on one face of the forward end of the spindle 60' and the other contact 69 mounted on the opposing face. The contacts 69 may be positioned at or near the forward end of the spindle 60'. The remainder of the spindle 60' apart from the contacts 69 may be made of electrically insulating material. In particular, the faces of the spindle 60' arranged around the outer perimeter, between the two contacts 69, have surfaces made of electrically insulating material. In other embodiments, the forward end of the spindle wherein the first and second electrical contacts are present may have a substantially circular cross-section, a first electrical contact being mounted to extend around a minor arc of the outer surface of the forward end of the spindle, with the second electrical contact being mounted on an opposing side of the spindle.

When the spindle 60' is in its first position shown in Figures, the contacts 69 on the spindle 60' contact the first and second terminals 33, 34 on the terminal holder 30, thus completing a circuit between the first and second terminals 33, 34. If the handle grip 51 is turned to move the spindle 60' to its second position as shown in Figure 6A, the two contacts 69 on the spindle 60' rotate and break contact with the first and second terminals 33, 34. Once the spindle 60' is in its second position the insulating faces of the spindle 60' contact the first and second terminals 33, 34, therefore there is no circuit completed between the first and second terminals 33, 34. The terminal holder's 30 interaction with spindle 60' can therefore act as a switch indicating whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration. The faces of the spindle 60' that the contacts 69 are located on can be swapped with the insulating faces so that the circuit is completed when the spindle 60' is in the second position shown in Figure 6A. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6A the spindle 60' has two contacts 69, but it need only have one contact on one face of the spindle 60' configured to span between the first and second terminals 33, 34 when the spindle 60' is in a predetermined position.

Referring to Figures 7 to 9, a further type of sensor that may be used with the system described above in order to determine one or more statuses of the latch mechanism of the leaf is shown (e.g. instead of the terminal holder 30). The sensor type in Figures 7 and 8 is a switch, the circuit for which is configured to be completed when the latch mechanism is in a predetermined configuration. The assembly in Figures 7 and 8 shows three switches 70, 71, 72 which will be described, although only one type of switch (70, 71 or 72 for example) would typically be provided in a handle assembly 50.

Firstly turning to switch 70, it is connected to the first end of connection lead 20, a battery power source (not shown in Figures 7 to 9) being connected at the second end of the connection lead 20. In this embodiment the switch 70 is not connected to the connection lead 20 via a plug and/or extension lead, but instead the switch 70 is wired to the connection lead 20, however a plug connection may of course be incorporated between the switch 70 and the connection lead 20. The switch 70 has first and second resilient armatures 70a, 70b, one of which is a positive contact and one of which is a negative contact The first and second resilient armatures 70a, 70b are each bent, having distal ends that are directed towards one another, but which are configured such that in their rest state they do not contact one another.

As with previous embodiments, the handle assembly 50 has a rotatable spindle 60', rotation of which drives a latch mechanism 11, comprising a gearbox lla for operating a latch means on rotation of the spindle 60'. The spindle 60' is shown in Figure 9 as having recesses at its forward end to receive contacts for contacting a terminal holder 30 for determining the position of the spindle, however any type of spindle may be used in the latch mechanism which interacts with switch 70 or 71. The gearbox lla includes a rotary drive member 73 having a throughbore shaped and sized to receive the spindle 60' therethrough so that rotation of the spindle can drive rotation of the rotary drive member 73. Rotary drive member 73 is a pinion having a plurality of gear teeth thereon (not visible in the figures), which engage with a rack portion (not visible in Figures 7 to 9) of a drive rail 75 of an espagnolette mechanism, so that rotation of the spindle 60' causes the drive rail 75 to move back and forth accordingly. The drive rail 75 includes a number of mushroom headed cams (not shown) on its outer face that faces away from the leaf edge and which can each engage with a corresponding keep in the frame in order to secure the leaf. The spindle 60' is rotatable between a first position shown in Figure 7, wherein the latch mechanism is in a secured configuration, and a second position, wherein the latch mechanism is in an unsecured configuration. In Figure 8, the spindle 60' is being rotated from the first position to the second position and has nearly reached the second position. The pinion 73 has the form of a quadrant/sector of a circle having a switch engaging surface 76 that rotates towards the switch 70 as the latch mechanism moves towards its secured configuration. Referring to Figure 8, once the spindle 60' is in its second position, switch engaging surface 76 of the pinion 73 engages the first and second resilient armatures 70a, 70b of the switch, forcing them to contact one another, thus completing the switch circuit. When the spindle 60' is rotated back to its first position, the first and second resilient armatures 70a, 70b are biased to return to their rest state in which they are not contacting one another. The assembly may be alternatively arranged such that the pinion 73 engages with switch armatures 70a, 70b when the latch mechanism is in the secured configuration. Either way, the switch 70 may be used to indicate whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration.

Referring to Figures 7 and 8, switch 71 will now be described. Like switch 70, switch 71 is a push type switch having first and second resilient armatures 71a, 71b (one being a negative contact and the other being a positive contact) which are configured such that in their rest state they do not contact one another. Referring to Figure 7, the first and second resilient armatures 71a, 71b are substantially straight and extend substantially parallel to one another in their rest state, when the spindle 60' is in its first position. The distal ends of the first and second resilient armatures 71a, 71b extend into an aperture in the drive rail and rest between a lower surface 75a of the aperture and the bottom of the gearbox 11a. When the spindle 60' is moved to its second position, the drive rail 75 moves upwards in the direction of arrow X relative to the spindle 60'. The lower surface 75a of the aperture in the drive rail compresses the first and second armatures 71a, 71b against the gearbox 11a, forcing the first and second armatures 71a, 71b to contact one another, completing the switch circuit. When the spindle 60' is rotated back to its first position, the first and second resilient armatures 71a, 71b are biased to return to their rest state in which they are not contacting one another. The assembly may be arranged such that the armatures 71a, 71b engage one another when the latch mechanism is in the secured configuration and are in a rest state when the latch mechanism is in the unsecured configuration. Either way, the switch 71 may be used to indicate whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration.

Referring to Figures 7 and 8, switch 72 will now be described. Switch 72 is a reed switch that interacts with an associated magnet in the handle assembly. The magnet is located on a moveable element of the handle assembly which moves as the handle assembly is converted between its secured and unsecured configurations. The magnet is moveable between a first position, which it occupies when the handle assembly is in its secured position and a second position, which it occupies when the handle assembly is in its unsecured configuration. The reed switch is convertible between a first state when a magnetic field is applied (i.e. when a magnet is brought into close proximity with the reed switch) and a second state when the magnetic field is removed (i.e. when the magnetic field is moved away). The reed switch has reed contacts which may be closed when a magnetic field is applied (in which case the reed switch is referred to as normally open) or the reed contacts may be open when a magnetic field is applied (in which case the reed switch is referred to as normally closed). The magnet is configured so that its movement between its first and second positions can convert the state of the reed switch, therefore allowing the reed switch to be used to determine whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration.

The reed switch 72 is shown in Figures 7 and 8 as exploded from the handle assembly, however it will preferably be arranged in this embodiment to be positioned where switch 70 is shown in Figures 7 and S. In general the reed switch 72 will be positioned adjacent the corresponding magnet. The magnet is positioned on any suitable moveable element of the handle assembly / latch mechanism in a predetermined mounting position in which the distance of the mounting position from the reed switch 72 is different when the handle assembly is in the secured configuration and when the handle assembly is in the unsecured configuration. In preferred embodiments the magnet is located on the spindle 60' or pinion 73, however it may be positioned on any suitable moveable element of the handle assembly / latch mechanism. In Figures 7 and 8 magnets 72a, 73a are shown located on the spindle 60' and pinion 73 (but it will be understood that only one magnet is needed to interact with the reed switch 72). In embodiments in which the magnet is located on the spindle 60', the magnet 72a may be located on a first side 60a' of the spindle 60' which is adjacent the reed switch 72 when the handle is in the secured configuration (as shown in Figure 7). Alternatively the magnet 72a may be located on a side of the spindle which is adjacent the reed switch 72 when the handle is in the unsecured configuration (i.e. if the assembly is configured such that the magnetic field is to be applied to the reed switch when the handle assembly is in the unsecured configuration). The rotation of the spindle 60' as the handle grip 51 is rotated moves the magnet 72a towards and away from the reed switch 73, allowing the reed switch 72 to be used to detect when the handle assembly is in the secured or unsecured configuration.

In embodiments in which the magnet is located on the pinion 73, a magnet 73a may be located on a side 77 of the pinion 73 which is adjacent the reed switch 72 when the handle is in the secured configuration (as shown in Figure 7). Alternatively the magnet 73a may be located on a side of the pinion 73 which is adjacent the reed switch 72 when the handle is in the unsecured configuration (i.e. on surface 76, if the assembly is configured such that the magnetic field is to be applied to the reed switch when the handle assembly is in the unsecured configuration). The rotation of the pinion 73 as the handle grip 51 is rotated moves the magnet 73a towards and away from the reed switch 73, allowing the reed switch 72 to be used to detect when the handle assembly is in the secured or unsecured configuration.

It will be understood that instead of a reed switch, other magnetic proximity sensors may be employed in place of reed switch 72, such as a magnetometer.

The switches 30, 70, 71, 72 shown in Figures 7, 8 and 9 are alternative switches that may be connected at one end of the connection lead 20. For each of the types switches 30, 70, 71, 72 shown in Figures 7, 8 and 9, the switch circuit will be completed when the spindle is in a predetermined position. The system can therefore be configured to indicate whether the spindle is in the predetermined position or not, depending on whether the switch circuit is complete or not, and therefore the system can be used to determine the status of the latch mechanism. The system may include a processor that generates a latch mechanism status output based on the whether the switch circuit is open or closed. The latch mechanism status can be used as part of a wider monitoring system and/or displayed on user display means such as a smartphone, remote control or other device which can receive data, preferably also having a user interface. The remote device may be coupled to a network and may be configured to transmit the received data to another device, such as a remote service. In this example therefore, the remote device may be a hub device, which may be communicatively coupled to one or more monitoring systems. The other device may then store the indication of the status of the window i door system, in association with a time or otherwise, and may service requests by other users for the current status of the window / door system.

The system of any of the embodiments described herein may include wireless transmission means for transmitting signals associated with the latch mechanism status as determined by the system to user display means such as a smartphone or other device which can receive data. The wireless transmission means may be radio frequency (RE) transmission means. However, other wireless transmission means may be used such as ZigBee, Zwave, Bluetooth, or other wireless protocol.

In some embodiments the system is configured to transmit a status indication relating to the window or door assembly in response to a received request. In other embodiments, the system is configured to transmit the status indication periodically (e.g. at regular intervals). In certain embodiments the system is configured to transmit the status indication when the status changes. Monitoring systems as described herein may be provided in relation to a plurality of window or door leaves. Therefore the signal indicating the status of the latch mechanism may include an identifier for the window or door that the signal relates to, each monitoring system having a unique or substantially unique identifier.

A user may interrogate a computing device to obtain an indication of the status of the latch mechanism of a particular window or door assembly. This functionality may be provided via another device (such as a hub or server) and an application (i.e. a program) may execute on the computing device to obtain the position indication.

The electrical member 30, 70, 71, or 72 will be located at first aperture 17 (visible in Figure 1) of the leaf. Therefore, any part of the electrical member that needs to interact with part of the handle assembly may pass through the aperture 17, such as the arms 35a, 35b of terminal holder 30 or armatures of switches 70, 71. The electrical member 30, 70, 71, or 72 may be fixed to the leaf by any suitable fixing means, such as adhesive or interference fit in a corresponding aperture for the electrical member. The electrical member 30, 70, 71, or 72 may be installed to the leaf in a factory, for example when the connection lead 20 is being mounted to the leaf 12. Of course, the electrical members 30, 70, 71, or 72 may be installed later, for example on site when the window/door is being installed in a building.

Another type of sensor that may be connected to a battery power source mounted in the leaf 12 via a premounted connection lead 20 and via the spindle 60 will now be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12. The sensor 80 shown in Figures 10 to 12 is for determining one or more statuses of the latch mechanism of the leaf. Sensor 80 is for determining the angular position of the spindle 60 of the handle assembly, and in particular whether the spindle 60 is in one or more predetermined discrete positions. As with the previous embodiment, the handle assembly 50 has a rotatable spindle 60, rotation of which drives a latch means (not shown) on the leaf. The spindle 60 is rotatable between a first position shown in Figure 10, wherein the latch mechanism is in a secured configuration, and a second position shown in Figure 11, wherein the latch mechanism is in an unsecured configuration.

The sensor 80 is mounted to a PCB 54 located in the handle assembly 50 in use, so that power can be supplied to the PCB 54 from a battery source mounted in the leaf via the connection lead 20 and the spindle 60, as shown in Figure 3. The sensor 80 comprises a pivot switch having a pivoting actuator 81 which interacts with a sleeve 82, which is received around the spindle 60 in use. The sleeve 82 has a throughbore 82a shaped to receive the spindle 60 therethrough. The sleeve 82 is carried by the spindle 60, such that sleeve 82 rotates as the spindle rotates. The sleeve 82 further has first and second radial grooves 83, 84 formed in its radial outer surface. The first and second radial grooves 83, 84 form recessed areas in the radial outer surface of the sleeve 82, the sleeve 82 having a non-recessed area 85 between the first and second radial grooves 83, 84. The pivoting actuator 81 is long enough to extend into radial grooves 83, 84 when either groove is aligned with the pivoting actuator 81 and to engage the non-recessed area 85 when it aligns with the pivoting actuator 81.

When the spindle 60 is in its first position shown in Figure 10, pivoting actuator 81 aligns with and is located in the first groove 83. If the handle grip 51 is turned to move the spindle 60 to its second position, the sleeve 82 rotates anticlockwise and the pivoting actuator 81 engages non-recessed area 85 on the outer radial surface of the sleeve 82, causing the pivoting actuator 81 to pivot in a first direction (to the left if viewed from the handle side of the leaf) to a first pivoted position. When the spindle 60 reaches its second position as shown in Figure 11, the pivoting actuator 81 now aligns with the second groove 84 and the pivoting actuator 81 enters the second groove 84. Once the pivoting actuator 81 is located in the second groove 84, the pivoting actuator 81 returns to its unpivoted position. The spindle 60 is rotatable 90° between its first and second positions, the first and second grooves 83, 84 also being arranged at 900 relative to one another.

If the handle grip 51 is turned to return the spindle 60 to its first position, the pivoting actuator 81 will engage non-recessed area 85 of the sleeve 82, causing the pivoting actuator 81 to pivot in a second direction to a second pivoted position (to the right in the Figure 10-12 embodiment). When the spindle 60 reaches its first position as shown in Figure 10, the pivoting actuator 81 now aligns with the first groove 83 and the pivoting actuator 81 enters the second groove 83, the pivoting actuator 81 returning to its unpivoted position.

The pivot switch 80 is configured for outputting signals to indicate whether the pivoting actuator 81 is in its unpivoted position, its first pivoted position or its second pivoted position. By monitoring the sequence of positions that the pivoting actuator 81 moves through, it is possible for the system to be used to determine whether the spindle 60 is in its first position or second position, and therefore to determine whether the latch mechanism is in its secured or unsecured configuration.

The sleeve 82 may comprise more than two radial grooves, for example if there are further positions that the spindle can be rotated to, corresponding to more than the secured and unsecured configurations of the latch mechanism. For example, for a tilt-and-turn window, as well as the handle grip 51 positions shown in Figures 10 and 11, the handle grip 51 may be rotated to a third position, for example wherein the handle grip 51 is rotated 180° relative to its first position. In such embodiments, the sleeve 82 will include a third radial groove arranged 180° from the first radial groove. The pivoting actuator will be located in the third radial groove when the handle grip 51 (and therefore the spindle 60) is in the third position. In such an embodiment, one of the spindle positions corresponds to a secured configuration of the latch mechanism, one corresponds to a configuration in which the leaf may be tilted relative to the frame and one corresponds to a configuration in which the leaf may be turned relative to the frame. The sleeve may of course have more than three radial grooves, each radial groove corresponding to a predetermined position of the spindle.

Further electrical members 86, 87 that may be electrically connected to a battery power source mounted in the leaf 12 via a connection lead 20 and spindle 60 will now be described with reference to Figures 13 to 17. Like the sensor 80, electrical members 86, 87 are attached to a PCB 54 in the handle assembly 50 in use, so that they may be powered via the spindle 60 as per the Figure 3 embodiment, which in turn is connected to the battery source mounted in the leaf via the connection lead 20.

Electrical members 86, 87 are both push switches, use of which will now be described further. Both push switches 86,87 are shown in Figure 13, however a system will typically have one type of push switch, 86 or 87, not both. Turning first to push switch 86, it is attached to PCB 54 such that it aligns with a locking catch 88 of the handle assembly 50.

Locking catch 88 is located in a recess 89 in the handle casing 52 (visible in Figure 15), such that the rearward surface of the catch 88 (the surface that faces away from the handle casing 52 when assembled) protrudes away from the rearward surface of the handle casing 52 when the handle is in its secured configuration as shown in Figures 13 and 14. The catch 88 is resiliently biased away from the handle casing 52 by a spring 89a, visible in Figure 15. The nose portion of the handle grip 51 is located over catch 88. The projection of the catch 88 from the handle casing 52 prevents the handle grip 51 from rotation relative to the handle casing 52, as the side walls of the nose portion of the handle grip 51 will abut the catch 88 if an attempt is made to turn the handle grip 51. In this configuration the catch 88 may be described as being in a blocking position.

The catch 88 may be pushed out of its blocking position by means of a user pushing push button 24 on the handle grip 51. The push button-catch 88 interaction is common in many prior art push-to-release type window handles. A rearward portion of push button 24 is exposed through an aperture 24a on the handle grip 51, allowing the push button 24 to be depressed by the user. The push button 24 is biased away from the handle casing 52 by means of a spring 24b. The forward surface of push button 24 engages catch 88 such that when the push button 24 is depressed, the forward surface of the push button 24 pushes against catch 88, pushing catch 88 further into recess 89. The push button 24 may be pushed to a fully depressed position in which the rearward surface of the catch 88 is flush with the edges of recess 89. When the catch 88 is fully depressed in this position, the handle grip 51 is no longer prevented from pivoting about the handle casing 52. The handle grip 51 can therefore be moved away from its closed position when the push button 24 has been depressed by the user. The nose portion of the handle grip 51 also houses a lock cylinder 25 (visible in Figure 2), operable by a key 26, which can be used to lock the push button 24 against being depressed.

Referring to Figure 16, the catch 88 has a protrusion 88a projecting from its forward end. The protrusion 88a is in the form of a small cylindrical projection. Referring to Figure 15, the base of recess 89 has an aperture 89b therein, shaped and sized to receive the protrusion 88a therethrough. Protrusion 88a aligns with push switch 86. When the catch 88 has been pushed to a fully depressed position by means of the user exerting a pushing force on the push button 24, protrusion 88a engages and depresses push switch 86. The system is configured to enter an alert mode when the push switch 86 is activated (i.e. depressed) for equal to or more than a predetermined duration. The predetermined duration may be, for example, 5 seconds. When the system is in alert mode, the system may be caused to activate an output device to indicate that the system is in alert mode, such as an audible alarm. Therefore, the assembly may be used as a fire alarm or panic alarm.

Push switch 87 may be provided instead of push switch 86 as part of an alternative fire / panic alarm system. Push switch 87 operates in a similar way except that push switch 87 is depressed by a protrusion 87a (see Figure 17) on the rear of the handle casing 52 that aligns with the push switch 87 in use. The handle assembly 50 includes means to bias the handle casing 52 away from the leaf. In order to operate the fire / panic alarm, the handle casing 52 is depressed by the user relative to the leaf for at least a predetermined duration (such as 5 seconds). This causes the protrusion 87a to depress push switch 87. As for push switch 86, the system is configured to enter an alert mode when the push switch 86 is activated for equal to or more than the predetermined duration. The protrusion 87a on the handle casing 52 may be any part of the handle casing 52 configured to engage and depress push switch 87 when the user depresses the handle casing relative to the leaf.

A further electrical member, being an electromechanical lock 90, that may have electrical power transmitted to it via the spindle 60 and connection lead 20 will now be described with reference to Figures 18 to 20. Like the sensor 80, electromechanical lock 90 is attached to a PCB 54 in the handle assembly 50, the PCB deriving its power from a leaf mounted battery power source via the spindle 60 and the premounted connection lead 20.

Referring to Figures 18 to 20, the embodiment including electromechanical lock 90 may be generally similar to the Figure 13 embodiment, except instead of a push switch 86 aligned with catch 88, there is an electromechanical lock 90 aligned with catch 88. The lock 90 comprises a blocking member 91 (see Figure 20) housed in a lock housing 92. The blocking member 91 is moveable between a blocking configuration, in which the catch 88 is blocked from moving, to a non-blocking configuration in which the catch 88 may be depressed. In the blocking configuration, the blocking member 91 blocks an aperture 93 in the lock housing 92. The aperture 93 is sized and positioned to receive the protrusion 88a projecting from the forward end of the catch 88 therethrough. However, when the blocking member 91 is in its blocking configuration, aperture 93 is blocked and the protrusion 88a cannot enter aperture 93 in the lock housing 92, therefore the catch 88 is blocked from moving forwards towards the lock 90.

Blocking member 91 may be any member which can be moved between its blocking and non-blocking configurations electromechanically. For example, blocking member 91 may be a solenoid, the lock housing 92 including a magnet (not visible in the figures) and control circuitry which can activate the solenoid 91 to move towards the magnet. The lock 90 or PCB 54 may include wireless receiver means to allow signals to be received to control the lock. When the lock 90 is inactivated the blocking member 91 is in its blocking configuration, preventing the catch 88 from being depressed, therefore preventing the handle grip 51 from being opened and therefore causing the leaf to be in a locked state.

When a user wishes to unlock the leaf, they may use a remote control device such as a smartphone to transmit a signal to the receiver means in the handle assembly 50 to activate the solenoid blocking member 91. Once the solenoid blocking member 91 is activated it moves to its non-blocking configuration, wherein it no longer blocks the aperture 93. The protrusion 88a on the catch 88 is now able to enter the aperture 93.

Therefore the user is now able to depress the push button 24 on the handle grip 51, which in turn pushes catch 88 into its recess 89 such that the handle grip 51 is no longer prevented from pivoting about the handle casing 52. The handle grip 51 can therefore be moved away from its closed position. In this way the system can be used as a wireless locking system for the handle assembly 50, allowing the handle assembly 50 to be locked and unlocked remotely.

A further electrical member, being a sensor 130 for determining the status of a lock, that can be electrically connected via a connection lead 20 (and optionally via a spindle of a handle assembly) to another electrical member such as a battery and/or transmitter will now be described with reference to Figures 21 and 22.

Referring to Figures 21 and 22, a door lock assembly component housing unit assembly is shown, however it will be understood the assembly can be employed in a door or window. The lock assembly 100 comprises a latch mechanism having a cylinder lock 102.

Rotation of a key (not shown) in the cylinder lock 102 causes a locking cam 104 to rotate, which in turn drives a locking bolt (not shown) between a locked position in which it extends from the edge of the leaf and an unlocked position (i.e. an unsecured position) in which it is retained within a recess in the leaf. The latch mechanism comprises a cam follower 106 which is moveable on rotation of the cam. The cam follower 106 is configured to move linearly back and forth between a first position shown in Figure 21, wherein the locking bolt is extended, and a second position shown in Figure 22, wherein the locking bolt is retracted. The cam follower 106 comprises a recess 106a in a surface that faces the cam 104, the cam engaging against a side of the recess in use in order to drive the cam follower 106 one way or the other as the cam 104 rotates clockwise and anticlockwise.

In one embodiment the sensor 130 comprises a switch connected to the first end of connection lead 20, a component housing unit assembly 140 housing a power source being positioned remotely from the sensor 130. In this embodiment the component housing unit assembly 140 is mounted inside the handle backplate. Preferably the connection lead 20 is premounted to the leaf in a similar way as described in relation to previous embodiments. In Figures 21 and 22, the connection lead 20 and battery and sensor unit 140 are shown diagrammatically, but it will be understood these are mounted to the leaf. The switch 130 has first and second resilient armatures 130a, 130b, one of which is a positive contact and one of which is a negative contact. The switch has a first switched state in which the armatures 130a, 130b are not contacting one another, as shown in Figure 21. The switch has a second switch state in which the first and second armatures 130a, 130b are contacting one another, as shown in Figure 22. The armatures 130a, 130b are biased to their first switched state. As the cam follower 106 moves to its second position, it pushes the first and second armatures 130a, 130b against each other so that they are contacting, completing the sensing circuit. The switch 130 therefore provides an output to the system indicating that the locking bolt is in its locked position. When the switch 130 is inactivated, this provides an output to the system that the locking bolt is in its unlocked position.

In another embodiment the cam follower 106 interacts with a reed switch positioned where switch 130 is shown in Figures 21 and 22. In such an embodiment the cam follower 106 includes a magnet 107 thereon. The magnet 107 is shown in Figures 21 and 22 in addition to switch 130, but it will be understood that the reed switch! magnet embodiment would be employed instead of the switch 130 embodiment described above. The reed switch is convertible between a first state when a magnetic field is applied (i.e. when magnet 107 is brought into close proximity with the reed switch) and a second state when the magnetic field is removed (i.e. when the magnet 107 is moved away). The reed contacts may be closed when a magnetic field is applied (in which case the reed switch is referred to as normally open) or the reed contacts may be open when a magnetic field is applied (in which case the reed switch is referred to as normally closed). The cam follower 106 with magnet 107 carried thereby is configured so that its movement between its first and second positions can convert the state of the reed switch, therefore allowing the reed switch to be used to determine whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration. The reed switch may therefore provide an output to the system indicating whether the latch mechanism is in its secured configuration or unsecured configuration. All of the embodiments described herein may include a processor to generate a latch mechanism status output based on signals from sensing means in the system and/or to allow control of an appropriate electrical member in the system using input signals from a remote device. The system of any of the embodiments described herein may include wireless transmission means for transmitting / receiving signals between the system and a remote device such as a smartphone or tablet. The processor and/or wireless transmission means may be housed within a component housing unit assembly 40, 140 of the type described above. The processor and/or wireless transmission means will suitably be communicatively coupled in use to any sensing means of the system that are used to monitor the status of the system so that signals indicative of the status of the system may be transmitted from the sensing means to the processor and/or wireless transmission means via the connection lead 20.

It will be understood that in any of the embodiments herein that employ a reed switch, other magnetic proximity sensors may be employed in place of reed switch, such as a magnetometer.

Various of the window and door features disclosed herein can be used in combination with one another as appropriate. It should be noted that embodiments of the inventions have been described invention have been described herein by way of example only, and that modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. It should be further noted that each of the many advantageous features described above may be employed in isolation, or in combination with any one or more other features.

Claims

Claims 1. A system comprising a push to unlock type handle assembly for operating a latch mechanism of the leaf, the handle assembly comprising a handle grip moveable between at least a closed position and a first open position, a catch moveable between a first position in which the handle grip is prevented from being moved from the closed position and a second position in which the handle grip is free to be moved from the closed position, and a push button operable to drive the catch from the first position to the second position, the system further comprising an electromechanical lock for locking the leaf in a closed position, the electromechanical lock comprising a blocking member moveable between a blocking configuration, in which the catch is blocked from moving from its first position to its second position, and a non-blocking configuration in which the catch is free to be moved from its first position to its second position.
2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the blocking member comprises a solenoid.
3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the system further includes a magnet and control circuitry which can activate the solenoid to move towards the magnet.
4. A system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the system further comprises receiver means configured to receive a signal from a remote control device for activating the solenoid.
5. A window or door comprising a system according to any of claims 1 to 4.