GB2494229A

GB2494229A - A fastening device with remote monitoring

Info

Publication number: GB2494229A
Application number: GB1206981.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gurmakh Ubhi
Original assignee: PEGASUS INNOVATIONS Ltd
Current assignee: PEGASUS INNOVATIONS Ltd
Priority date: 2011-09-05
Filing date: 2012-04-20
Publication date: 2013-03-06
Also published as: GB201115303D0; GB201206981D0

Abstract

A fastening device for a door or window comprising: a body 20 with fastening member 22, preferably sliding bolt, an actuating means moving the sliding bolt 22 between a fastening position to a released position; and a communication means 36 to send a signal indicative of the locking status of the device to a remote device 40. Preferably a catch is provided to retain the sliding bolt 22 in the extended fastening position wherein upon disengaging the catch from the sliding lock bolt 22 it is biased into the released/retracted/unlocked position. A plurality of locking bolts may be remotely locked and unlocked by a remote device wirelessly, e.g. radio frequency or near field technology. Sensors such as reed switches 34 may determine the locking position/state of the bolt. The device may have an alarm status, a camera and memory to store images

Description

Descrirtion of Invention The invention relates to a fastening device, and to a security system including a plurality of fastening devices. A fastening device according to the present invention may be used for fastening a door, a gate, a window, or the like, in a closed position. In situations where a lockable bolt or latch currently is used as a fastening device for a door or the like, the present invention may be used to provide information to, or receive information from, a remote device, or to a control device of a security system, so that the status of the fastening device may be determined and/or controlled from a remote location.

It is known to provide a remotely operated locking system in which a remote device is used to send a "lock" or and unlock" signal to the locking device.

Car doors, for example, are commonly provided with a remotely controllable locking system, in which a signal may be sent from a fob operable by a user, to deactivate a door lock. In such a system, the receipt of an unlock" signal may cause a catch mechanism to be released, to enable a handle to be used, subsequently, to move the bolt or latch to a position in which the door may be opened.

In some circumstances, such as upon detection of a potentially-hazardous condition, or during a safety-critical event when an alarm has been raised -such as when a fire has been discovered -it may be preferable for a signal to trigger the unbolting (or unlatching) of a lock, to allow a user to open the door.

Where a door is provided in an animal enclosure, for instance, it is not possible for the animal within the enclosure to operate a handle for example, to open an otherwise "unlocked" door. In the event of a fire, it is preferable for the door to be opened or unbolted automatically, to allow the animal to escape.

Furthermore, in a more secure environment such as an office building, fire doors are commonly provided with a keyless securing mechanism (such as a typical fire door push-bar) to allow occupants of the building to unlock the door without wasting time find and using a key. However, in the event of a fire, it may be advantageous for a fire-fighter to be able to unlock and open the door from the outside of the building. For security reasons, this is not permitted by a standard push-bar arrangement, where the bar is only operable from one side of the door. To maintain security, it has previously not been feasible to allow remote unlocking of secure doors from the outside of a building, triggered by an alarm being raised.

Where a fastening device is deployed in the context of a secure environment such as a secure department of a medical or custodial building, it would be advantageous for the fastening device to be remotely operable. The device might preferably be provided with functionality to unfasten the door (or window, alternatively) from a remote location. This functionality might be provided in addition to a manual means of unfastening the door. Preferably, the device might be provided with a remote facility to fasten the door, from an unfastened state. This may be beneficial where a system is employed to observe or monitor the status of fastening devices within an environment, if it established that a door or window has been left unsecured accidentally. In this case, the device may be operated remotely to fasten the door or window.

On occasion, it would be advantageous to allow a person access to a property when the property owner is not at home. For example, if a tradesman has been called to the property to service an appliance, it is typical for the owner of the property to stay at home so as to allow the tradesman to enter. Instead, it would be advantageous for the owner to be able to go to work as usual, and to have the facility to unlock the door when a call from the tradesman is received to indicate that he is at the property. The door may then be re-fastened when the tradesman leaves, either by operation of a manual fastening means operated by the tradesman, or remotely by the owner. In either instance, the owner might preferably receive a message triggered by the device being fastened, so as to be confident that the door and property are secure.

The present invention seeks to reduce or overcome one or more of the above problems.

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a fastening device for a door or window comprising a body, a fastening member moveable relative to the body between a fastening position and a releasing position, actuating means operable to move the fastening member between its fastening position to its releasing position, and communication means configured to receive a signal from a remote device and to send a signal indicative of a status of the fastening device to the or another remote device.

According to a second aspect of the invention, we provide a security system comprising a plurality of fastening devices according to the first aspect of the invention.

Further features of the first and second aspect of the invention are set out in the claims appended hereto.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following figures, of which, Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a fastening device, in communication with a remote device; Figure 2 shows another embodiment of a fastening device, including an actuating means; Figure 3 shows another embodiment of a fastening device, including an actuating means, in communication with a remote device; Figure 4 shows another embodiment of a fastening device, including a camera; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fastening device of Figure 4; Figure 6 shows another embodiment of a fastening device, including a motorised actuating means; Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the rnotorised actuating means of the fastening device of Figure 6; Figure 8 is a security system according to the second aspect of the invention, comprising a plurality of fastening devices; Figure 9 shows another embodiment of a fastening device, including a motor; Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a linear actuator; Figure 11 shows a fastening device including a linear actuator in combination with a multi-point locking system; Figure 12 shows a roller-shutter in combination with a fastening device; and Figure 13 shows the fastening device of Figure 12.

With reference to the Figure 1, a fastening device 10 is shown. The fastening device described herein has the general configuration of a bolt and keep arrangement, but it should be understood that other configurations are envisaged. The fastening device 10 has a body 20 for installation on a door or window, or on a respective frame of a door or window, and a separate receiving member 30 for installation on the other of the door/window or frame, adjacent the body 20. The body 20 and receiving member 30 are cuboids in the example shown, but may have any other shape appropriate for the purposes described hereafter.

The fastening device 10 includes a fastening member 22, in the form of a generally cylindrical bolt having a first end part 25 and a second end part 27, which is supported within a generally tubular bore 29 through the body 20, and is moveable axially relative to the body 20.

A receiving member 30 having a recess 32 is also provided. The receiving member 30 is positioned such that the recess 32 aligns axially with the bore 29 within the body 20. The fastening member 22 is moveable axially between a fastening position, and a releasing position, wherein the first end part 25 of the fastening member 22 extends outwardly of the body 20 of the device when it is in its fastening position, more than it extends when it is in its releasing position, for engagement with the receiving member 30.

The second end part 27 of the fastening member 22 comprises a manually-engageable knob 26, to allow a user to move the fastening member 22 between its releasing position and its fastening position.

Whilst in this example the fastening member 22 and corresponding bore 29 are generally circular in cross-section, it should be understood that parts with alternative cross-sections may be used (such as a rectangular cross-section, for example). Furthermore, it should be understood that the present invention could be applied to an alternative fastening configuration, such as a latching arrangement, in which case the fastening member would rotate relative to the body, rather than moving axially.

Apertures are provided generally adjacent the corners of the body 20, to allow screws (or other connection means) to be used to secure the body of the device to a wall or frame, or to a surface of a door or window. Apertures are also provided in the receiving member 30, to enable the receiving member 30 to be similarly secured to the other of a door/window, and a wall/frame.

When the fastening member 22 is in its fastening position, a portion of the length of the fastening member lies within the bore of the body 20, and an end portion of the fastening member 22 is received within the recess 32 of the receiving member. In this position, the body 20 and receiving member 30 are held relative to one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the fastening member 22, so as to prevent relative movement in that plane of the respective surfaces to which they are mounted (thereby holding the door/window closed). When in its releasing position, the first end 25 of the fastening member 22 is withdrawn from the receiving member 30, so that the receiving member 30 and body 20 are capable of relative movement therebetween.

The fastening device 10 further includes a catch means for holding the fastening member 22 in the fastening position relative to the body. Catch means suitable for retaining a fastening member of a lock are generally known. For example, the catch means may comprise a part slidable relative to the body 20 of the device, so as to engage a notch or recess in the fastening member 22 when it is in its fastening position. The catch means has releasing means (shown generally as 24), to enable the fastening member to move from its fastening position to its releasing position. The releasing means is operable to move the catch means into and out of engagement with the fastening member 22. The releasing means comprises an operating member that is moveable keylessly relative to the body 20. In the examples described, the operating member is a push button having a face level with, protruding from, or slightly recessed beneath, the level of an outer surface of the body 20. When the push button is depressed by a user, the catch means moves such that it is disengaged from the fastening member 22. The fastening member 22 may then be moved from its fastening position to its releasing position.

Whilst in the examples shown the operating member is a push button, alternative user-operable means may be provided, such as a handle.

The catch is biased by a spring to its engaged position, such that when the push button is not depressed, and if the fastening member is in its fastening position, the catch returns to engage the fastening member 22 so as to hold it in its fastening position.

The bore 29 through the body 20 has a first portion towards the knob 26 of the fastening member 22, and a larger diameter portion towards the opposite end of the body (towards the first end 25 of the fastening member 22) with an annular plug (not shown), through which the fastening member 22 extends. A helical compression spring is disposed between the annular plug within the bore 29 and a collar (not shown) on the fastening member 22, so that when the first end 25 of the fastening member 22 protrudes from the body 20, a force is exerted on the fastening member 22 biasing it away from the receiving member 30, so that the first end 25 moves towards (or within) the body 20, and the knob 26 moves away from the body 20. To set the fastening device in a fastened configuration, a user pushes the knob 26 to move the fastening member 22 against the biasing force, to move it to its fastening position.

The fastening device 10 of Figure 1 further includes a communication means 36, capable of sending and/or receiving signals to/from a remote device 40.

The remote device may communicate with the communication means by a wireless connection or over a local area network, for example. In this example, the remote device 40 is a wireless handheld device, such as a mobile phone. The communication means 36 may transmit wirelessly to a satellite to be retransmitted to a remote device 40 such as a satellite phone,

for example.

The communication means 36 includes a sensor 34, which in this example comprises a reed switch, disposed in proximity to (or within) the recess 32 of the receiving member 30. A magnet (see 123, in Figure 2) is disposed within the fastening member 22, at its first end 25. Movement of the magnet away from or towards the reed switch 34 causes the switch to open or close, respectively. When the switch 34 is opened, a signal is transmitted by the communication means 36, indicating that the magnet is no longer in proximity to the switch 34, and that therefore the fastening means 22 no longer engages the receiving member 30. The transmission may be in the form of a Short Message Service (SMS) transmission, for example, indicating that the fastening device 10 has been "released".

When the fastening member 22 is moved back to its fastening position, and the switch 34 is subsequently closed, having been open, the communication means transmits a further message, indicating that the fastening device 10 has been "engaged".

In an alternative embodiment, a sensor may be disposed within the body 20 of the device, and the magnet may be disposed at another location along the length of the fastening member 22, so that movement of the fastening member 22 relative to the body 20 is detected. In this manner, movement of the fastening member 22 from its fastening position to its releasing position causes transmission of a "released" signal by the communication means 36 to the remote device 40. The sensor 34 may by further configured to detect engagement of the catch means to hold the fastening member 22 in its fastening position. In this way, engagement of the catch means may cause transmission of an engaged" signal by the communication means.

When referring to this, and each subsequent embodiment, reference numerals for corresponding integers of the device are separated by multiples of 100 (e.g. devices 10, 110, 210, 310 and 410 are described).

With reference to Figure 2, a further embodiment of the fastening device 110 is shown, having a body 120 and receiving member 130 similar to the shown in Figure 1, and further including an actuating means 150 and a processing means which in this example is a printed circuit board (PCB) 172.

The actuating means 150 is operable to move the operating member 124, so that the releasing means is operated automatically, rather than solely in response to operation of the operating means 124 by a user. Of course, the operating means 124 may still be operated manually. In the example shown, a push button 128 is provided.

Actuating means 150 is secured to the body 120 by one or more attachment means 154 (such as screws, for example). In an alternative embodiment, the body may comprise integrated actuating means housed internally within the body. The actuating means 150 is configured to enable movement of the operating member 124, so as to cause the releasing means to release the catch means, thereby causing the fastening member 122 to move to its releasing position under the biasing force. In this way, the actuating means provides an automatic "trigger" to release the fastening device 110.

The actuating means 150 includes an electromagnet, comprising a solenoid 159 and a core 158 moveable within the solenoid 159. Application of a current through the solenoid 159 causes movement of the core 158 axially through the solenoid 159, in a direction away from the body 120. The core 158 is connected by a connection member 156 to the operating member 124, such that movement of the core 158 away from the body 120 causes movement of the operating member 124 in that direction as if the push button 128 had been pressed by a user, releasing the catch means.

Whereas in the embodiment described, the actuating means comprises an electromagnet, it will be apparent that the actuating means could alternatively comprise a motor or a piston (or other suitable means), to cause movement of the operating means.

The PCB 172 comprises a communication means, which is operable to send and receive transmissions. On receipt of an "actuation" signal, the FCB 172 triggers operation of the actuating means 150, so as to release the catch means from the fastening member 122, causing the fastening member 122 to move from its fastening position to its released position.

An "actuation" signal may be transmitted by a remote device, to the communication means of the fastening device 110, to release the fastening device 110. Such a remote device may be an alarm device, or a sensor device. For example, one of: a smoke detector, a heat detector, a seismic detector, a flood warning system, an alcohol detector, a natural gas detector, a carbon dioxide detector, a carbon monoxide detector and/or an ozone detector may be operable to send an "actuation" signal to the fastening device 110.

A building may be provided with one or more alarms or detectors, such as those listed above, to alert users of the building to an occurrence of such potentially hazardous conditions, e.g. an emergency such as a fire. When this occurs, in addition to sounding an alarm, the alarm or detector unit may transmit an "actuation" signal. When the "actuation" signal is received by the communication means of the fastening device 110, the actuation means 150 is triggered, causing the fastening device 110 to be released. This results in the door, or window, to which the body 120 and receiving member 130 of the device are fitted, respectively, to be unlocked and unbolted, to allow users to exit the building without having to operate one or more locking devices.

The PCB 172 may further comprise a memory device configured to store a status indication, to indicate the position of the fastening member 122 (i.e. whether it is in its fastening position or its releasing position). The memory device may further store status information indicating whether an alarm status is set, wherein on receipt of an alarm signal, the status indication is set to an "alarm" status.

In an embodiment of the invention, on receiving an actuation" signal, the communication means (via the FOB) may operate the actuation means only if an "alarm" status indication is set. In this embodiment the fastening device 110 is manually operable by the operating means, but is only operable in response to a signal from a remote device if an alarm status is set. In an emergency, an alarm signal is transmitted by a remote device such as a smoke detector, causing the alarm status to be set. Subsequently, the fastening device may be released on receipt of an "actuation" signal from a remote device.

The remote device may be a key fob, allowing a user outside a building, for example, to release a fastening device located within the building when an alarm is activated. A fastening device according to this embodiment provides security, that the device cannot be released by a remote signal unless a safety-critical situation arises. Such a system would be advantageous for use by emergency services, whereby emergency personnel could gain access to a locked door from the outside using a remote device, under restricted conditions (i.e. the remote device would only trigger release of the lock under alarm conditions).

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 3, wherein the fastening device 210 comprises an actuating means 250 having a power supply 262 (such as a battery or mains connection), and a communication means 260. It should be understood that the fastening device of any of the described embodiments of the invention may comprise an internal power source, such as one or more batteries, or may comprise a connection to an external supply (such as a mains connection). The actuating means 250 of the current embodiment further comprises a piston valve 256, operable to move the operating means 224, and thereby release the fastening device 210.

The operating means 224 of this embodiment comprises a handle 264, to allow a user to pull the operating means 224 outwardly from the body, to release the catch.

Figures 4 and 5 show another embodiment of the fastening device 310, in which the body 320 of the device comprises a RCB 372, having a camera 370, and a port 374 for connecting external devices to the fastening device 310.

The camera 370 is connected by wiring 376 to the PCB 372. The ROB 372 may also comprise, or be connected to, a communication means.

The camera 370 is disposed at a sur ace of the body 320 that faces away from the surface on which the body 320 is mounted. A user operating the fastening device 310 manually, using the operating means 324, is likely to stand in front of the device 310, and facing the device 310, thereby also facing the camera 370. The camera 370 is operable to record images (still images, or video, or both), which may be transmitted to a remote device by the communication means. Alternatively, or additionally, the images and/or video may be recorded to a storage device connected to the POB 372. The storage device may be housed within the body 320, or may be an external device connected to the port 374.

By providing a camera 370, the fastening device 310 is operable to record images of anyone operating the fastening device 310. When used in combination with a sensor for detecting the status of the fastening member, as described above, the camera may be triggered to record images when the fastening member 322 is moved to its releasing position. By so doing, an image of a person releasing the fastening device may be recorded, so that if the person using the device is attempting to gain unauthorised access through the doorway to which the device is fitted, it will be possible to identify the person from the images.

The images/video may also be streamed in real-time, or transmitted discretely, to a remote device such as a PC, a mobile phone, or a security control device, so that the image can be inspected by a user.

Aspects of a further embodiment of a fastening device are shown in Figures 6 and 7 of the drawings. An actuation means 450 is shown in connection with a body 420 of a fastening device 410, the actuation means 450 comprising a power source 462, a communication means 460 having at least a receiver, and a motorised actuator 456. The motorised actuator 456 includes a servo motor, and a pair of arms pivotably connected to one another, and connected at one end to the motor, and at the other end to the operating means 428.

When the actuation means 450 is operated, on receipt of an actuation" signal at the receiver of the communication means 460, the motor is operated, causing the arms to pivot, and a force to be applied to the operating member 424.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a fastening device may include two operating members, disposed at positions remote from one another on the body of the device, and are movable in opposite directions from one another.

In this way, a fastening device may be animal-proofed' so that it is practically impossible for an animal to operate the device. Such a device may be provided on an animal enclosure such as a stable door, for example, wherein a lower portion of the door is fastened closed, whilst an upper portion of the door remains open so that a horse may stand with its head protruding over the lower portion, out of the stable. It is well known that horses, in particular, are capable of unfastening basic fastening devices using their teeth. It is preferable to provide a fastening device that does not require use of a key, or entry of a code, to unlock the stable door, for safety reasons in the event of a fire or the like. A fastening device according to the present embodiment cannot be opened by a horse, as it is necessary to depress two operating members disposed at positions remote from one another, to release the device.

Where a device comprises two operating members, two respective actuating means may be provided, both of which may be operable on receipt of an actuation" signal, as described above.

According to a further embodiment, a fastening device may be provided with a displacement means to facilitate relative movement between the body and the receiving member of the device. A fastening device of this type may, on receiving an actuation signal, opeiate the actuating means to release the fastening device, and subsequently cause relative movement between the body and the receiving means, which in turn causes relative movement of the surfaces to which the body and receiving means are secured.

A fastening device having a displacement means may be suitable for connection between a window and window frame. An "actuation" signal may be transmitted by a carbon monoxide detector to cause the device to first release, and then automatically open the window. In this way, the potentially life-threatening danger of a build-up of carbon monoxide in a room may be averted.

A further aspect of the invention, described with reference to Figure 8, comprises a security system, including a plurality of fastening devices 510a-Q as described hereinabove, and a control device 512 having a control communication means 514 for receiving and/or sending a signal to or from each of the communication means of the fastening devices 510a-g. The control communication means 514 may also send/receive transmissions to/from one or more remote devices 516, by a wired or a wireless transmission (which may include transmission to a satellite, for re-transmission to one or more further remote devices, for example).

The control device 512 stores a status associated with each of the fastening devices 510a-g, wherein the control device 512 is configured to update the status of each fastening device 5lO-g on receiving a signal from the communication means of that device. The control device 512 includes a display device for displaying information to a user in a control room, for example. The information displayed may include information associated with the status of one or more of the fastening devices 510a-Q, such as whether the device is fastened or released, and whether an alarm status has been set.

The control device 512 may also receive images or video transmitted from one or more of the fastening devices 51 Qa-g, and display the images on the display device to a user. The control device may store the images, or may transmit them to a remote device such as a mobile phone, or a PC, so that the images may be viewed remotely.

The system may include one or more sensors, such as heat sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide (or other gas) detectors, or the like, which are operable to transmit an alarm" signal to the control communication device 514, or to one or more of the fastening devices 5lOa-g. The communication device 514 may be operable to transmit an "alarm" signal, or an "actuation" signal, to one or more of the fastening devices 510a-g, so as to set an alarm status or release the fastening devices, respectively.

Security systems according to the present invention may comprise a plurality of zones, whereby fastening devices 510a-g within the system each belong to one or more zones. In this way, signals and status updates may be sent to and received from fastening devices within a particular zone, so as to cause operation of only those devices. For example, if a fire alarm is triggered in one zone, fastening devices within that zone may receive "release" signals so as to unlock doors in that zone. Surrounding zones may also trigger "release" signals. However, devices within zones that are not adjacent the hazard (i.e. locations that are far from the detected fire) may not receive "release" signals.

A fastening device according to embodiments of the invention may be provided with one or more sensors for detecting one or more of: a position of the fastening member relative to the receiving member, whether a portion of the fastening member lies within or adjacent the receiving member, movement of the fastening member towards the receiving member, movement of the fastening member away from the receiving member, and/or movement of the fastening member relative to another fixed point on, within, or adjacent the body of the fastening device. In this way, the fastening device may communicate signals to relay information that the fastening is moving relative to the receiving member, that it has been received within the receiving member, and/or that it is moving relative to the body of the device.

Furthermore, the device may be operable to transmit a signal on receipt of an "engage" or "release" signal, or on receipt of an "alarm status" signal, so as to alert a system or mobile device user of a change in its status. A signal may also be generated on operation of the device by a manual means, such as on operation of a handle or push-button to release the fastening member from the receiving member.

Referring now to figure 9 of the drawings, this shows a fastening device 600 with a fastening member 622 in the form of an elongate, generally cylindrical bolt having a first end part extending outwardly of the body (at its left hand end with reference to the drawing). The fastening member 622 is supported in the body for lengthwise movement therein, between a releasing position in which it is illustrated and a fastening position in which the first end part of the fastening member extends farther outwardly of the body than it does in the releasing position, for engagement with a suitable receiving member. The body of the device supports, internally, a PCB 672 which is able to detect the position of the fastening member 622 relative to the body, and to send and receive transmissions as above described.

At the opposite (right hand with reference to figure 9 of the drawings) end of the body and fastening member, an actuating means is provided for effecting movement of the fastening member between its releasing and fastening positions. A stepper motor 605 is mounted in the body, and its output shaft carries a pinion 604 whose peripheral teeth mesh with rack teeth 608 provided along one face of an elongate slot 606 provided in a member 602 at the end of the fastening member 622. It will be appreciated therefore that rotation of the pinion 604 effects movement of the fastening member lengthwise within the body.

The body of the fastening device may also contain a locking device which is co-operable with the fastening member 22 to lock the latter in one, or one of several, of its operating positions relative to the body. As illustrated, this comprises a solenoid-operated device with a locking element constituted by a core 658 moveable relative to a solenoid 659. The core is co-operable with a recess 661 in the fastening member 622, so that when the core is entered in the recess the possible lengthwise movement of the fastening member is prevented or severely limited. When the fastening member is to be moved by the actuating means, the ROB 672 must firstly energise the solenoid 659 to cause withdrawal of the core 658 from the recess 661, before the stepper motor can be energised to move the fastening member. The locking solenoid device provides additional security against unauthorised movement of the fastening member, other than by actuation of the actuating means.

In another embodiment of the invention, the actuating means may be a linear actuator, eg of the type utilising a screw and nut arrangement, with relative rotation therebetween caused by an electric motor, to effect movement of one of such elements along the axis of the screw-threaded connection. Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a fastening device 700 with such a linear actuator 708, the actuator having an output element 706 connected, eg by a screw thread, to one end of a member 712 of elongate form extending through a body 720 provided with a PCB 772 which detects, eg by a magnetic arrangement, the position of the member 712 relative to the body. The opposite end of the member 712 from that connected to the output element 706 of the actuator 708 extends beyond the body 720 and ends at a cylindrical engagement formation 714.

The engagement formation 714 receives an operating peg 702 of an elongate operating bar 716. The operating bar 716 is disposed between a retaining bar 718 of similarly elongate configuration to the operating bar 716, secured to an edge face of a door or window for example, so that the operating bar 716 is moveable lengthwise of the edge face. The body 720 is secured to the retaining bar 718, by screws for example as illustrated, as is the linear actuator 708, the screws passing through elongate slots in the operating bar 716 so that the operating bar is moveable lengthwise while the retaining bar 718, and the actuator 708 and body 720 secured to the retaining bar, remains stationary.

In known manner, the operating bar 716 may operate a number of fastening devices in a multi-point fastening for the door or window.

Referring now to figures 12 and 13, these show a roller shutter 816 moveable vertically within vertical guides 817. At floor level, eg set into the surface of a floor, there are two fastening devices 812 in accordance with the invention, whose fastening members 822 are engageable with respective apertures 818 in keeps 810 extending downwardly from the lowermost element of the roller shutter. Figure 13 shows one of the keeps 810, having an aperture 818 extending through it, the keep being able to enter a gap 812 defined between respective body parts of each fastening device 800. In each fastening device, the fastening member 822 thereof is able to extend across the gap 812 between the respective body parts and through the aperture 818 in the keep to retain the keep to the fastening device when the fastening member is in its fastening position.

The two fastening devices 800 may be provided with respective actuating means for effecting movement of their fastening members between their fastening and releasing positions, or possibly a single actuating means may be arranged to effect movement of the two fastening members. In the former case, each fastening device may be provided with communication means which may send a signal indicative of the status of the fastening device, and respond to a signal to cause the status of the fastening device to be changed, as above described, while in the latter case a single communication means may be provided for controlling the actuating means which actuates both fastening devices. In either case, in addition to the possibility of remote control of the operation of the fastening devices, a conventional manually operable fasten/release control 814 may be provided adjacent to the roller shutter, to enable local operation thereof.

Securing systems and fastening devices as described herein may require a security clearance before the actuating means can be operated. A "release" signal may only be issued to the communication means, to cause the actuation means to unfasten the device, on receipt of a security key. Suitable security keys include input of a password or PIN, voice-recognition, fingerprint recognition or a retinal scan of an authorised user. In embodiments, a voice command or other sound may provide the signal to the communication means to operate the actuating member. An RFID chip, or other suitable device, may be mounted on or with in a lapel badge or access card, such that proximity of the chip to a RFID sensor mounted on or adjacent the fastening device provides the "release" signal, or the "engage" signal, to operate the actuation means.

Embodiments of the fastening device may be fitted within a door, rather than being attached to a door. In this case, the receiving member may be disposed within the door frame. In embodiments, a fastening device may be adapted to operate with a bolt or latch mechanism of an existing lock installed in a door.

In this way, the actuating means may be configured so as to move the existing bolt or latch between its fastening and releasing positions.

Embodiments of the fastening device may be fitted to, or within, windows. In such cases, the fastening device may be fitted or mounted substantially within a portion of a window and the receiving member is mounted substantially within a portion of a fixed frame relative to which the window is moveable.

Keyless fastening devices of this kind are not prone to security issues associated with traditional keyed locks. Such problems include the phenomenon of bumping', whereby a keyed lock may be opened using a specially designed key, by forcing it into a tumbler lock mechanism.

It should also be understood that the fastening device of the present invention may also be used in relation to other securable items, such as drain covers, lids, gates, or the like.

In embodiments of the present invention, a mobile application (such as a mobile phone application) is provided on a mobile device, to enable a user to send signals to and receive signals from a fastening device, or from a communication means linked to a controller within a security system. A user may select an option within the application to cause the mobile phone to transmit a "release" signal to the fastening device, or another option to cause the mobile phone to transmit an engage" signal to the fastening device. The fastening device may be operable to transmit in response a signal indicating that the fastening member is in its released position or in its engaged position, respectively. In this way a user is able to send a signal to lock or unlock a door, and can be sure that the door has been locked or unlocked successfully on receipt of confirmation.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

<claim-text>Claims 1. A fastening device for a door or window comprising: a body; a fastening member moveable relative to the body between a fastening position and a releasing position; actuating means operable to move the fastening member between its fastening position to its releasing position; and communication means configured to receive a signal from a remote device and to send a signal indicative of a status of the fastening device to the or another remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. A fastening device according to claim 1, wherein the actuating means comprises at least one operating member moveable keylessly relative to the body, so as to cause movement of the fastening member.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. A fastening device according to claim 2, wherein the or each operating member comprises a push-button.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. A fastening device according to claim 2, wherein the or each operating member comprises a handle.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. A fastening device according to claim 6, wherein the actuating means comprises at least one of: a motor, an electromagnet and/or a piston.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein receipt of a "release" signal causes operation of the actuation means so as to move the fastening member from its fastening position to its releasing position.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein receipt of an engage" signal causes operation of the actuation means so as to move the fastening member from its releasing position to its fastening position.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein movement of the fastening member from its fastening position to its releasing position causes transmission of a "released" signal by the communication means to a remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein movement of the fastening member from its releasing position to its fastening position causes transmission of an "engaged" signal by the communication means to a remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device is a fastening bolt device, wherein the fastening member extends outwardly of the body of the device when it is in its fastening position, more than it extends when it is in its releasing position, for engagement with a receiving member.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A fastening device according to claim 10, wherein the body having the fastening member is mounted on a door, and the receiving member is mounted on a part of a fixed frame relative to which the door is moveable.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A fastening device according to claim 10, wherein the body having the fastening member is mounted substantially within a door, and the receiving member is mounted substantially within a part of a fixed frame relative to which the door is moveable.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A fastening device according to claim 10, wherein the body having the fastening member is mounted on a window and the receiving member is mounted on a part of a fixed frame relative to which the window is moveable.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A fastening device according to claim 10, wherein the body having the fastening member is mounted substantially within a portion of a window and the receiving member is mounted substantially within a portion of a fixed frame relative to which the window is moveable.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A fastening device according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein disengagement of the fastening member from the receiving member causes transmission of a released" signal by the communication means to a remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. A fastening device according to any one of claims 10 to 15, wherein engagement of the fastening member with the receiving member causes transmission of an "engaged" signal by the communication means to a remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>17. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication means is configured to communicate wirelessly.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. A fastening device according to claim 17, wherein the communication means is configured to communicate via a near field communication standard.</claim-text> <claim-text>19. A fastening device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a memory device configured to store an alarm status indication.</claim-text> <claim-text>20. A fastening device according to claim 19, wherein on receipt of an alarm signal, the alarm status indication is set to an "alarm activated" status.</claim-text> <claim-text>21. A fastening device according to claim 20, wherein the communication means, on receiving an actuation signal, operates the actuation means only if an "alarm activated" status indication is set.</claim-text> <claim-text>22. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device further comprises a camera.</claim-text> <claim-text>23. A fastening device according to claim 22, wherein the fastening device further comprises a storage medium, for storing images recorded using the camera.</claim-text> <claim-text>24. A fastening device according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the fastening device is operable to transmit images from the camera to a remote device.</claim-text> <claim-text>25. A fastening device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device includes a port for connecting an electronic storage device.</claim-text> <claim-text>26. A security system comprising a plurality of fastening devices according to any one of the preceding claims, and a control device having a control communication means for receiving and/or sending a signal to or from each of the communication means of the fastening devices.</claim-text> <claim-text>27. A security system according to claim 26, wherein the control device stores a status associated with each of the fastening devices, wherein the control device is configured to update the status of each fastening device on receiving a signal from the communication means of that device.</claim-text> <claim-text>28. A security system according to claim 27, wherein the control device includes a display device for displaying information to a user.</claim-text> <claim-text>29. A security system according to claim 28, wherein the display device is operable to display information associated with the status of one or more of the fastening devices to a user.</claim-text> <claim-text>30. A security system according to claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the control device is operable to receive images transmitted from a fastening device and to display the images on the display device to a user.</claim-text> <claim-text>31. A security system according to any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the system further comprises a sensor operable to transmit an alarm" signal to one or more of the fastening devices.</claim-text> <claim-text>32. A security system according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the control communication means is operable, in response to receiving an "alarm" signal from a remote device, to transmit an "alarm" signal to one or more of the fastening devices.</claim-text> <claim-text>33. A fastening device as hereinbefore described with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.</claim-text> <claim-text>34. A security system as hereinbefore described with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.</claim-text> <claim-text>35. Any novel feature or novel combination of features described herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.</claim-text>