AU2016101671A4 - Improvements to Latches for Movable Barriers or the like - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch. A base unit wirelessly receives information from the sensor as to whether the latch assembly is latched or unlatched. The base unit comprises a control interface and an audible/visible alarm. The base unit also comprises a wireless signal transmitter for transmitting the latch condition to a remote device and a signal receiver for receiving signals from a remote device. The system may also be configured to couple with a pool alarm, locks, perimeter alarms, home alarms or proximity sensors. 14a 14a 12 J12 12 12 Fig. 1 Fig. 2 14a 16 Fig. 3

Description

Improvements to Latches for Movable Barriers or the like Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to improvements to latches for movable barriers or the like, more specifically the present invention relates a network for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier latch to a user.

Background of the Invention [0002] To prevent young children from entering or leaving a restricted area such as a swimming pool or child care centres without supervision, safety enclosures are provided. In some cases, such as for pool fences, they may be required by law. These safety enclosures generally include a self-latching device which is arranged to operate automatically on closing of the gate of the fence and prevents the gate from being reopened without manual release of the mechanism.

[0003] One form of such a self-latching device is a magnetic latching device, an example of which is described in WO92/03631.

[0004] In addition, the applicant understands that improvements can still be made in the industry to drive a much safer environment for young children.

Statements of the Invention [0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: [0006] at least one latch assembly for at least one movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; [0007] a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch.

[0008] According to a second aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed, the system comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, and a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0009] According to a third aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed, the system comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, and a signal receiver for receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed, the system comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, and a signal receiver for receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device, and the signal transmitter may transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the information from the signal receiver pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, and the signal receiver is capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the information from the signal receiver pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, and the signal receiver is capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm, wherein the user interface allows the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit is configurable for wirelessly receiving data from at least a further latching and/or non-latching device.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed, the system comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit is integrated with a further latching and/or non-latching device.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect, a system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user is disclosed, the system comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit is operatively coupled to other wireless devices, such as a pool alarm, locks, perimeter alarms, home alarms or proximity sensors.

[0016] In some embodiments, the base unit further comprises an indicator adapted to for notify the user the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, and a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0017] In some embodiments, the base unit may further comprise a signal transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, an indicator adapted to notify the user of the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, and a signal receiver for receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the base unit may be configurable for wirelessly receiving information pertaining to the latched and/or the unlatched condition from at least a further latching and/or non-latching device, or is integrated with a further latching and/or non-latching device [0019] In some embodiments, the at least one latch assembly may be wirelessly connected to the base unit using a first wireless protocol. Advantageously, a one-way wireless communication may be provided from the latch assembly to the base unit. The base unit may be a portable unit or a stationary unit.

[0020] In some embodiments, the user interface allows the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit.

[0021] In some embodiments, the latch assembly may comprises a latch indicator for indicating its latched and/or unlatched condition, wherein said latch indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm. The user interface and/or indicator on the base unit communicate the same information pertaining to the condition of the latch as the latch indicator on the latch.

[0022] The base unit may be operatively coupled to other wireless devices, such as a pool alarm, locks, perimeter alarms or proximity sensors.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the base unit may further comprise a signal transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, and the is capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit.

[0024] The signal transmitter may be a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device, and the signal transmitter may transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol. The separate wireless protocol may be a bidirectional wireless communication between each remotely located device and the base unit. Advantageously, the separate wireless protocol may comprise one or more of the following protocols: Wi-Fi, Zig BEE, Z Wave, 3G, 4G, GSM, RE or Bluetooth etc.

[0025] Alternatively, the signal transmitter may be a non-wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device via a wired network.

[0026] The remotely located device may comprise one or more of the following: mobile phone, router, modem, local area network, home security system, intermediate unit or a bridging unit. The remotely located device may be programmable and adapted to allow the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit.

[0027] The user interface may comprise at least a touch screen interface, visual indicators, buttons or a combination of visual indicators and buttons to provide a visual indication on the status of each latch assembly and/or to configure the base unit to operate with a plurality of latches.

[0028] The signal transmitter may be a wireless transmitter for communicating the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device. The signal transmitter may transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol.

[0029] The remotely located device may be a wireless controller, for example, a mobile phone or remote control. In some embodiments, the mobile phone may be configurable to control or operate the base unit. Advantageously, the mobile phone may contain a display that replicates the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch and/or base unit [0030] In some embodiments, the remotely located device may comprise two or more devices linked wireless in a chain. In the case, for example, where there are two devices in a chain, the last device is indirectly linked to the base unit by an intermediate device. It can be envisaged, for example, a mobile phone may be indirectly connected to the base unit by a local area network modem or router.

[0031] Alternatively, the base unit may be directly connected a local area network, such as a network enabled home security system. In this embodiment, the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch may be relayed to the network enabled home security system.

[0032] In some embodiments, a plurality of latch assemblies may be linked to the base unit, for example, one latch may be used to secure a first movable barrier and another latch may be used to secure a second movable barrier.

[0033] The wireless transmitter of each latch communicates with the base unit via said first wireless protocol, such as radio frequency (RF).

[0034] The wireless transmitter of the base unit communicates with at least one remotely located device via said second wireless protocol, such as Wi-Fi, Zig BEE, Z Wave, 3G, 4G, GSM, RF or Bluetooth etc. Advantageously, the use of two different wireless protocols can minimise the interference of signals.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0035] There now follows, by way of example only, a detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the Figures identified below.

Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a gate in a closed position, wherein the gate secured by a prior art latch in a latched condition.

Figure 2 is a schematic front view of the gate of Figure 1 with the gate in the closed position and the latch in an unlatched condition.

Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the gate of Figures 1 and 2 with the gate in an opened closed position.

Figure 4 is a schematic front view of a gate in a closed position, wherein the gate secured by a prior art alarm enabled latch in a latched condition.

Figure 5 is a schematic front view of the gate of Figure 4 with the gate in the closed position and the alarm enabled latch in an unlatched condition.

Figure 6 is a schematic front view of the gate of Figures 4 and 5 with the gate in an opened closed position.

Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a system for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of a wireless enabled latch to a user according to the present invention.

Figure 8 is a schematic view of a base unit.

Figure 9 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the base unit.

Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of the system with a plurality of wireless enabled latches.

Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a second embodiment of the system for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of the wireless enabled latch to the user according to the present invention.

Figure 12 is a schematic illustration of a third embodiment of the system for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of the wireless enabled latch to the user according to the present invention.

Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of a fourth embodiment of the system for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of the wireless enabled latch to the user and to a third party.

Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a fifth embodiment of the system for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of the wireless enabled latch to the user via the internet.

Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of a sixth embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of a seventh embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments [0036] In the following description, functionally similar parts carry the same reference numerals between different embodiments. The drawings are intended to be schematic, and dimensions, scale and/or angles may not be determined accurately from them unless otherwise stated.

[0037] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the upward and downward directions refer to the orientation of a latch when mounted onto a substantially vertical surface. Axial refers to the principal, normally substantially vertical axis of the latch. Radial refers to a direction substantially orthogonal to the axial direction, but does not necessarily imply that the latch is circular or cylindrical.

[0038] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms fence, panel, post are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[0039] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms mounting means, bracket, fixture are intended to have equivalent meaning.

[0040] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the terms latch assembly, lock assembly, [0041] Within the statement of invention, description and claims, unless otherwise stated, the term movable barrier includes, for example, a hatch, gate, door, skylight or window, i.e. a member suitable for closing or opening an aperture, but not limited to the pivotal or direction of movement. For example, the member may pivot or slide horizontally and/or vertically.

[0042] Although the description discloses the latch is mounted on the post and the striker is mounted on the gate, in alternative embodiments this may be reversed, i.e. the latch may be mounted on the gate and the striker may be mounted on the post.

[0043] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic front views of a gate 10 for closing an opening in a fence 12. As shown in Figure 1, the gate 10 is in a closed position and is secured with a prior art latch 14a in a latched condition.

[0044] Figure 2 illustrates the gate 10 in the closed position with the latch 14a in an unlatched condition, whereby a release mechanism 18 of the latch 14a is actuated to release a striker 16 in order to unlatch the latch 14a. Figure 3 illustrates the gate 10 in an open position.

[0045] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate the gate 10 secured with a prior art alarm enabled latch 14b for closing the opening in the fence 12. As shown in Figure 4, the gate 10 is in the closed position with the alarm enabled latch 14b in a latched condition.

[0046] Figure 5 illustrates the gate 10 in the closed position with the alarm enabled latch 14b in an unlatched condition, whereby the release mechanism 18 of the latch 14b is actuated to release the striker 16 in order to unlatch the latch 14b. As illustrated in Figure 5, in the unlatched condition the alarm enabled latch 14b releases an audible and/or visual alarm 20.

[0047] In another scenario, it can be envisaged that the alarm enabled latch 14b will alarm when the gate 10 is closed and the latch 14b visually appears to be latched, but is actually unlatched, for example, if a foreign body or matter preventing the latching mechanism of the latch 14b from positive engagement.

[0048] Figure 6 illustrates the gate 10 in an open position and the alarm enabled latch 14b continues to release the audible and/or visual alarm 20 as the alarm enabled latch 14b still remains unlatched. The audible and/or visual alarm 20 may be silenced once the gate 10 is closed and the alarm enabled latch 14b is in the latched condition. Alternatively, the alarm enabled latch 14b may be provided with a mute switch to mute the audible and/or visual alarm 20.

[0049] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of a system 100 for communicating information pertaining to the unlatched condition of a wireless enabled latch 140 to a user according to the present invention. As shown in Figure 7, the wireless enabled latch 140 comprises a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the unlatched condition of the latch 140 via a first wireless protocol to a base unit 24. Advantageously, in order for the wireless enabled latch 140 to conserve power, the latch 140 may be configured to sense either the unlatched or latched condition, i.e. so the wireless transmitter is operated on demand. Advantageously, the latch 140 may be configured to only transmit a wireless signal 22 and not to receive wireless signals. It can be envisaged that receiving of wireless signals requires the latch 140 to be continually powered in a standby mode, thus consuming power. The wireless enabled latch 140 may comprise a sensor adapted to sense the magnetic field, where the latch, magnet and sensor being configured such that a change in the condition of the latch effects a variance in the magnetic field sensed by the sensor such that the sensor is able to distinguish between the latched condition and the unlatched condition of the latch. The wireless enabled latch 140 may comprise a ferrite element adapted such that movement of the ferrite element effects a change in the impact of the magnetic field on the sensor. Alternatively, the sensor may be a halls effect sensor that directly or indirectly detects the change in the magnetic field with respect to the condition of the latch.

[0050] The wireless enabled latch 140 may be configured to mute the audible and/or visual alarm 20, for example, the first 20 seconds to allow adults to open the gate 10 without activating the audible and/or visual alarm 20.

[0051] Advantageously, the base unit 24 may be configurable for wirelessly receiving data from at least a further latching and/or non-latching device, and/or integrated with a further latching and/or non-latching device, for example, the base unit 24 may a part of a pool monitoring system/device.

[0052] Advantageously, the wireless enabled latch 140 may be configured to transmit status information of its power supply on a timed basis. For example, the wireless enabled latch 140 may transmit the power supply status to the base unit 24 twice a day.

[0053] The wireless transmitter of each latch 140 may communicate with the base unit 24 via a first wireless protocol, such as radio frequency (RF). For example, the radio frequency may by a 433MHz radio frequency or other radio frequencies and bandwidth. The radio frequencies can be licence-free frequencies.

[0054] Figure 8 is a detailed view of the base unit 24. As illustrated, the base unit 24 may comprise an antenna 26, user interface 28 and speaker 30, which will be described in more detail below. The base unit 24 may be a portable unit or a stationary unit, whereby the base unit 24 can be powered by mains or a portable power source. As shown in Figure 9, the base unit 24 may be a portable unit supplied with a docking station 32 for charging the power supply of the base unit 24.

[0055] During use, when the gate 10 in the closed position and the wireless enabled latch 140 is in an unlatched condition, the wireless enabled latch 140 releases a local audible and/or visual alarm 20 and sends the wireless signal 22 to the base unit 24. The base unit 24 converts the signal 22 into an audible and/or visual alarm via the user interface 28 and speaker 30 to notify the user that the wireless enabled latch 140 is unlatched. As the gate 10 is opened, the wireless enabled latch 140 continues to release the audible and/or visual alarm 20 and sends the signal 22 to base unit 24 as the wireless enabled latch 140 remains unlatched. Advantageously, the user interface 28 and speaker 30 may replicate the audible and/or visual alarm 20 of the wireless enabled latch 140.

[0056] During use it can be envisaged that the wireless enabled latch 140 may be mounted on a gate 10 located at some distance from the user where the audible and/or visual alarm 20 of the wireless enabled latch 140 may not be visible or heard. In such a case, the base unit 24 may be located nearer the user where the base unit 24 will notify the user that the wireless enabled latch 140 is unlatched.

[0057] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of the system 100 where a plurality of wireless enabled latches 140, 140a are provided, wherein each wireless enabled latch 140, 140a transmits their respective wireless signal 22, 22a to the base unit 24. Advantageously, the wireless signal 22, 22a of each wireless enabled latch 140, 140a is encoded, encrypted or has its own signal identifier to prevent interference of signals between multiple wireless enabled latches. It can be envisaged, that one wireless enabled latch 140 would be used to secure a pool gate, whilst the other wireless enabled latch 140a would be used to secure a garden perimeter gate.

[0058] As previously described, the user interface 28 of the base unit 24 may comprise a touch screen interface, visual indicators, buttons or a combination of visual indicators and buttons to provide a visual indication on the status of each wireless enabled latch 140, 140a and/or to configure the base unit 24 to operate with multiple wireless enabled latches 140, 140a.

[0059] The user interface 28 would provide status of each wireless enabled latch 140, 140a, for example, power supply status, latched/unlatched status and connected/paired status etc. Advantageously, the user interface 28 may replicate the interface of each wireless enabled latch 140, 140a. In addition, the user interface 28 may allow the user to mute the audible alarm from the speaker 30, and in such case the visual alarm may continue to alert the user as a safety measure. Alternatively, the user interface 28 may allow the user to selectively mute or operate different and various alarm functions, such as visual alarms, audible alarms, haptic alarms or vibrational alarm.

[0060] Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a second embodiment of the system 200 whereby the base unit 24 further communicates the status of each wireless enabled latch 140 to a remote device 34. In this embodiment, the remote device 34 may be a mobile phone or a remote control. The mobile phone 34 may be a smart device configurable to control or operate the base unit 24. Advantageously, the mobile phone 34 may contain a display that replicates the status of each wireless enabled latch 140 and/or the base unit 24.

[0061] As illustrated in Figure 11, a communication link 36 between the remote device 34 and the base unit 24 may be a bi-directional communication link to enable the remote device 34 to control or operate the base unit 24.

[0062] Figure 12 is a schematic illustration of a third embodiment of the system 300 whereby an intermediate remotely located device 38 may be provided between the remote device 34 and the base unit 24. In this embodiment, the intermediate remotely located device 38 may be a bridging unit, for example, a modem, router, or a local area network. Advantageously, the bridging unit 38 may wirelessly enabled, for example, a wireless modem, wireless router, or a wireless local area network.

[0063] As illustrated in Figure 12, the communication link 36 between the remote device 34 and the bridging unit 38 may be a bi-direction communication link, and a communication link 36 between the bridging unit 38 and the base unit 24 may be a bi-direction communication link to enable the remote device 34 to control or operate the base unit 24.

[0064] Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of a fourth embodiment of the system 400 whereby the base unit 24 further communicates the information pertaining to the status of each wireless enabled latch 140 to a home network 42. In this embodiment, the home network 42 may be a home security network. The home security network 42 may relay the information pertaining to the status of each wireless enabled latch 140 and/or base unit to an off-site network 46.

[0065] As illustrated in Figure 13, a communication link 48 between the offsite network 46 and the home security network 42 may be a bi-direction communication link, and a communication link 44 between the home security network 42 and the base unit 24 may be a bi-direction communication link to enable the off-site network 46 to control or operate the base unit 24.

[0066] Advantageously, the bi-direction communication links 36, 40, 44 between the base unit 24 and the remote device 34, between the base unit 24 and the intermediate remotely located device 38, and between the base unit 24 and home network 42 may operate on a second wireless protocol, such Wi-Fi, Zig BEE, Z Wave, 3G, 4G, GSM, radio frequencies, or Bluetooth etc. Advantageously, the use of two different wireless protocols minimises interference of signals.

[0067] Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a fifth embodiment of the system 500 for relaying the unlatched condition of the wireless enabled latch 140 to the user to a computer 52 via the internet 50. Advantageously, the computer 52 is configured to control or operate the base unit 24.

[0068] Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of a sixth embodiment of the system 600, whereby the base unit 24 is configurable to receive a wireless signal 22b from a non-latch product 150, for example, a pool alarm, locks, and perimeter alarm or proximity sensor.

[0069] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the latch 140 may further comprise a camera unit. The camera may be integrated with the latch 140. Alternatively, the camera may be a separate unit secured to the latch 140. The camera can have its own separate power source, or use the power source of the latch 140.

[0070] The camera can be configured to capture live still or video images. In this embodiment, whereupon actuation of the release mechanism 18 operates the camera to allow the images to be streamed to the base unit 24. The images may be displayed on the base unit 24. Alternatively, the images may be relayed to the remote device 34 or computer 52 to be viewed by the user.

[0071] Advantageously, the base unit 24, remote device 34 or computer 52 may include a facial recognition software to determine if a known/predetermined/recorded individual has actuated the release mechanism 18.

[0072] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the latch 140 may further comprise a proximity sensor. In this embodiment, the base unit 24 provide a staged notification process where an initial visual and/or audible warning is provided when a body or presence is in close proximity of the latch 140 and then a full scale visual and/or audible alert when the release mechanism 18 of the gate latch 140 is actuated.

[0073] Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of a seventh embodiment of the system 700, whereby the wireless latch 140 is configurable to transmit historical and/or operational data of the wireless latch 140 to the computer 52. The historical and/or operational data may be transmitted wirelessly or via a wire to the computer 52. The latch 140 may further comprise a memory for record historical and/or operational data. Advantageously, the recorded historical and/or operational data may be used to diagnosis whether the latch 140 is in the unlatched or the latched condition of the or understanding the history leading to the last event, such as opening of the gate or unlatching of the latch 140. Historical and/or operational data may include one or more of the following: [0074] a. The frequency of audible and/or visual alarm 20 activation; b. If and when the wireless latch 140 has been calibrated and/or configured for use by the end user or installer; and/or c. The last 20 operations and/or activations. Each operation and/or activation may be provided or plotted with respect to time.

Applications [0075] Although the embodiments disclose the latch and system being used on swimming pool and child care applications, it can be envisaged that the latch and system can be used on other applications such as security fencing, zone restriction fencing, doors, safety barriers, security barriers, care homes, garden gates etc.

Alternative Embodiments [0076] In the claims which follow and in the preceding disclosure, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0077] Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0078] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the claims.

Clauses [0079] 1. A system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: [0080] a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and [0081] b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, and a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0082] 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the at least one latch assembly is wirelessly connected to the base unit using a first wireless protocol.

[0083] 3. The system of clause 1 or 2, wherein a one-way wireless communication is provided from the at least one the latch assembly to the base unit.

[0084] 4. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the user interface allows the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit.

[0085] 5. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one latch assembly comprises a latch indicator for indicating the latched and/or unlatched condition in response to the information from the sensor, wherein said latch indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[0086] 6. The system of clause 5, wherein the user interface and/or the indicator of the base unit communicate the same information pertaining to the condition of the latch as the latch indicator of the latch.

[0087] 7. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the base unit is operatively coupled to other wireless devices, such as a pool alarm, locks, perimeter alarms, home alarms or proximity sensors.

[0088] 8. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, and the signal receiver is also capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit.

[0089] 9. The system of clause 8, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device, and the signal transmitter may transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol.

[0090] 10. The system of clause 9, wherein the separate wireless protocol is a bi-directional wireless communication between each remotely located device and the base unit.

[0091] 11. The system of clause 9 or 10, wherein the separate wireless protocol comprises one or more of the following protocols: Wi-Fi, Zig BEE, Z Wave, 3G, 4G, GSM, RF or Bluetooth etc.

[0092] 12. The system of clause 8, wherein the signal transmitter is a nonwireless transmitter for communicating information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device via a wired network.

[0093] 13. The system of any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein the remotely located device comprises one or more of the following: mobile phone, router, modem, local area network, home security system, intermediate unit or a bridging unit.

[0094] 14. The system of any one of clauses 8 to 13, wherein the remotely located device is programmable and adapted to allow the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit.

[0095] 15. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the user interface comprises at least a touch screen interface, visual indicators, buttons or a combination of visual indicators and buttons to provide a visual indication on the status of each latch assembly and/or to configure the base unit to operate with a plurality of latches or wireless devices.

[0096] 16. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the base unit is a portable unit or a stationary unit.

[0097] 17. A network comprising a system of any preceding clause, wherein the system comprises at least one movable barrier, each movable barrier having a latch assembly with a wireless transmitter for communicating the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch.

[0098] 18. A system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: [0099] at least one latch assembly respectively for at least one movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; [00100] a base unit having a signal receiver for wirelessly receiving the information from the wireless transmitter indicating the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the information from the signal receiver pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, and the signal receiver is capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm.

[00101] 19. The system of clause 18, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device, and the signal transmitter may transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol.

[00102] 20. The system of clause 18, wherein the signal transmitter is a nonwireless transmitter for communicating the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device via a wired network.

[00103] 21. A system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: [00104] a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and [00105] b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit is either: [00106] configurable for wirelessly receiving data from at least a further latching and/or non-latching device; and/or [00107] integrated with a further latching and/or non-latching device.

[00108] 22. A wireless enabled latch comprising a sensor adapted to sense the magnetic field, where the latch, magnet and sensor being configured such that a change in the condition of the latch effects a variance in the magnetic field sensed by the sensor such that the sensor is able to distinguish between the latched condition and the unlatched condition of the latch.

[00109] 23. The wireless enabled latch of clause 22, further comprising a ferrite element adapted such that movement of the ferrite element effects a change in the impact of the magnetic field on the sensor and/or a halls effect sensor that directly or indirectly detects the change in the magnetic field with respect to the condition of the latch.

[00110] 24. A sensor system for a latching assembly comprising a magnet and a latch, the latch being moveable to adopt a latched condition and an unlatched condition, the sensor system comprising: [00111] a sensor arrangement adapted to distinguish between the latched condition and the unlatched condition; and a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of the latch to a base unit.

[00112] A sensor arrangement according to clause 21 wherein the sensor arrangement senses a variation in the magnetic field imparted by the magnet to distinguish between the latched and the unlatched condition.

Claims (5)

1. Claims

   1. A system for relaying status information of at least one movable barrier to a user comprising: a. at least one latch assembly respectively for at least movable barrier, wherein each latch assembly comprises a latch operable between a latched condition and an unlatched condition, a sensor arrangement configured to distinguish between the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, and a wireless transmitter for communicating information from the sensor arrangement pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch; and b. a base unit for wirelessly receiving the information from the sensor indicative of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch, wherein the base unit: i. further comprises an indicator adapted to notify the user of the the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, and a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm; ii. further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, and a signal receiver for receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter for communicating the information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device, and the signal transmitter may optionally transmit signals using a separate wireless protocol; iii. further comprises a signal transmitter for communicating the information from the signal receiver pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to at least one remotely located device, an indicator adapted to notify the user of the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch in response to the information from the sensor, a user interface for controlling and/or operating the base unit in response to the indicator, and the signal receiver is capable of receiving additional operating parameters from each remotely located device for operating the user interface on the base unit, wherein the indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm, wherein the user interface optionally allows the user to selectively mute or operate different and various indicators on the base unit; iv. is configurable for wirelessly receiving data from at least a further latching and/or non-latching device; v. is integrated with a further latching and/or non-latching device; or vi. is operatively coupled to other wireless devices, such as a pool alarm, locks, perimeter alarms, home alarms or proximity sensors.
2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one latch assembly is wirelessly connected to the base unit using a first wireless protocol, wherein optionally a one-way wireless communication may be provided from the at least one the latch assembly to the base unit.
3. 3. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one latch assembly comprises a latch indicator for indicating its latched and/or unlatched condition in response to the information from the sensor, wherein said latch indicator comprises at least an audible and/or visual alarm, wherein optionally the user interface and/or the indicator of the base unit communicate the same information pertaining to the condition of the latch as the latch indicator of the latch.
4. 4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the signal transmitter is a wireless transmitter, the separate wireless protocol is a bi-directional wireless communication between each remotely located device and the base unit, and optionally the separate wireless protocol may comprise one or more of the following protocols: Wi-Fi, Zig BEE, Z Wave, 3G, 4G, GSM, RE or Bluetooth etc, wherein optionally the remotely located device may comprise one or more of the following: mobile phone, router, modem, local area network, home security system, intermediate unit or a bridging unit.
5. 5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the signal transmitter is a non-wireless transmitter for communicating information pertaining to the latched and/or unlatched condition of each latch to the remotely located device via a wired network.