GB2516218A

GB2516218A - Barrier system

Info

Publication number: GB2516218A
Application number: GB1310341.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Paul Marchant
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-06-07
Filing date: 2013-06-07
Publication date: 2015-01-21
Also published as: GB201310341D0

Abstract

A barrier system, such as a security or anti-theft door, has a detachable interior panel 202, an exterior panel (402, fig 4A), a maintenance portion 206, and an interior (302, fig 3B) and exterior lock indicator (410, fig 4A), such as a neon glow strip. The maintenance portion gives access to: a viewing portion 208, such as a peek or spy hole; a fastening portion (604, fig 6), such as a steel rod lock; an access portion for locking/unlocking (404, fig 4A), such as a keypad, fingerprint scanner or keyhole; a detection portion (408, fig 4A), such as an infrared detector; a camera portion (502, fig 5B); an interior 204 and exterior display portion (406, fig 4A); an impact resistant portion (602, fig 6); processor portion (610, fig 6); fire detection portion (608, fig 6), that may detect smoke, heat or carbon monoxide; and a power source (606, fig 6).

Description

BARRIER SYSTEM

According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a system comprising: a barrier system configured to provide a barrier between a user and an object, said barrier system being operable to allow said user to detect and/or interact with said object remotely from behind an interior surface, and in which the interior surface comprises: an interior panel for covering said interior surface, said interior panel being operable to detach from said barrier system; an interior display portion being configured to display said object; a maintenance portion being configured to provide access to components of said barrier system; a viewing portion being configured to be operable to allow said user to view said object; and an interior lock indication portion being operable to indicate whether said barrier system is in a locked position or an unlocked position; wherein said barrier system further comprises an exterior surface comprising an exterior panel for covering said exterior surface, said exterior surface further comprising: an access portion for locking and/or unlocking said barrier system, said * S access portion comprising a code for actuation; * : : , an exterior display portion for displaying a message to said object; a detection portion for detecting said object; a camera portion for creating a visual depiction of said object; and S...

* * . an exterior lock indication portion being operable to indicate whether said barrier system is in said locked position or said unlocked position; wherein said barrier system further comprising a middle portion being disposed to position between said interior surface and said exterior surface, said middle portion comprising: a fastening portion being configured to secure said barrier system in said locked position; an impact resistant portion being configured to resist a high impact farce; a processor portion being configured to operate said barrier system; a fire detection portion being configured to detect a fire; and a power source being configured to power said barrier system; wherein said barrier system further comprises a remote control portion being operable to remotely control and access said barrier system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0001] The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which: [0002] FIG. 1 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0003] FIGs. 2A and 2B illustrate a side view and a detailed perspective view of an exemplary interior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0004] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate detailed perspective views of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary interior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; S...

[0005] FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate a side view and a detailed perspective view of an exemplary exterior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0006] FIGs. 5A and 5B illustrate detailed perspective views of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary exterior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0007] FIG. 6 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary middle portion without an interior panel or an exterior panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0008] FIGs. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D illustrate various side views of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0009] FIG. S illustrates a blowup view of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0010] FIGs. 9A and, 9B illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary fastener portion and an exemplary access portion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [0011] FIGs. bA, lOB, and lOG illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary user remotely accessing the barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and [0012] FIG. 11 illustrates a typical computer system that, when appropriately configured or designed, can serve as an exemplary method for identification, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. * * .

* Detailed Description of Some Embodiments * **

[0014] The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed

figures and description set forth herein.

[0015] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of and in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, that any of the foregoing steps may be suitably replaced, reordered, removed and additional steps may be inserted depending upon the needs of the particular application. Moreover, the prescribed method steps of the foregoing embodiments may be implemented using any physical and/or hardware system that those skilled in the art will readily know is suitable in light of the foregoing teachings. For any method steps described in the present application that can be carried out on a computing machine, a typical computer system can, when appropriately configured or designed, serve as a computer system in which those aspects of the invention may be embodied. Thus, the present invention is not limited to any particular tangible means of implementation.

[00161 A "computer" may refer to one or more apparatus and/or one or more systems that are capable of accepting a structured input, processing the structured input according to prescribed rules, and producing results of the processing as output.

Examples of a computer may include: a computer: a stationary and/or portable computer; a computer having a single processor, multiple processors, or multi-core processors, which may operate in parallel and/or not in parallel; a general purpose computer: a supercomputer; a mainframe: a super mini-computer: a mini-computer; a workstation: a micro-computer; a server; a client; an interactive television: a web appliance: a telecommunications device with internet access; a hybrid combination of a computer and an interactive television; a portable computer: a tablet personal computer (PC): a personal digital assistant (PDA); a portable telephone; application-specific hardware to emulate a computer and/or software, such as, for example, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application specific instruction-set processor (ASIP), a chip, chips, a system on a chip, or a chip set; a data acquisition device: an optical computer; a quantum computer; a biological computer; and generally, an apparatus that may accept data, process data according to one or more stored software programs, generate results, and typically include input, output, storage, arithmetic, logic, and control units.

* [0017] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that where appropriate, some embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced in network computing environments S...

with many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like.

Where appropriate, embodiments may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices that are linked (either by hardwired links, wireless links, or by a combination thereof) through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0018] Software" may refer to prescribed rules to operate a computer. Examples of software may include: code segments in one or more computer-readable languages; graphical and or/textual instructions; applets; pre-compiled code; interpreted code; compiled code; and computer programs.

[0019j The example embodiments described herein can be implemented in an operating environment comprising computer-executable instructions (e.g., software) installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware. The computer-executable instructions can be written in a computer programming language or can be embodied in firmware logic. If written in a programming language conforming to a recognized standard, such instructions can be executed on a variety of hardware platforms and for interfaces to a variety of operating systems. Although not limited thereto, computer software program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention can be written in any combination of one or more suitable programming languages, including an object oriented programming languages and/or conventional procedural programming languages, and/or programming languages such as, for example, Hyper text Markup Language (HTML), Dynamic HTML, Extensible Markup Language (XML), Extensible Stylesheet Language (XSL), Document Style Semantics and Specification Language (DSSSL), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Synchronized Multimedia Integration Language (SMIL), Wireless Markup Language ML)I Java.TM., Jini.TM., C, C++, Smalltalk, Perl, UNIX Shell, Visual Basic or Visual Basic Script, Virtual Reality Markup Language (VRML), ColdFusion.TM. or other compilers, assemblers, interpreters or other computer languages or platforms.

*.... [0020] Computer program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone * * software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network IAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0021] A network is a collection of links and nodes (e.g., multiple computers and/or other devices connected together) arranged so that information may be passed from one part of the network to another over multiple links and through various nodes. Examples of networks include the Internet, the public switched telephone network, the global Telex network, computer networks (e.g., an intranet, an extranet, a local-area network, or a wide-area network), wired networks, and wireless networks.

[0022) The Internet is a worldwide network of computers and computer networks arranged to allow the easy and robust exchange of information between computer users.

Hundreds of millions of people around the world have access to computers connected to the Internet via Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Content providers (e.g., website owners or operators) place multimedia information (e.g., text, graphics, audio, video, animation, and other forms of data) at specific locations on the Internet referred to as webpages. Websites comprise a collection of connected, or otherwise related, webpages. The combination of all the websites and their corresponding webpages on the Internet is generally known as the World Wide Web (WWW) or simply the Web.

[0023) Aspects of the present invention are described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose * computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. * * *o*

[0024] The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, *.**.* * functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be execyted in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0025] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[0026] Further, although process steps, method steps, algorithms or the like may be described in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarily Indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performed simultaneously.

[0027] It will be readily apparent that the various methods and algorithms described herein may be implemented by, e.g., appropriately programmed general *:..* purpose computers and computing devices. Typically a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) will receive instructions from a memory or like device, and execute those instructions, thereby performing a process defined by those instructions. Further, programs that implement such methods and algorithms may be stored and transmitted using a variety of known media. 0***

[0028] When a single device or article is described herein, it will be readily apparent that more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device/article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it will be readily apparent that a single device/article may be used in place of the more than one device or article.

[0029] The functionality and/or the features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are not explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus, other embodiments of the present invention need not include the device itself.

[0030] The term "computer-readable medium' as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions) which may be read by a computer, a processor or a like device. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes the main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media may include or convey acoustic waves1 light waves and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FL.ASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0031] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying sequences of instructions to a processor. For example, sequences of instruction (i) may *. .* * * be delivered from RAM to a processor, (ii) may be carried over a wireless transmission medium, and/or (iii) may be formatted according to numerous formats, standards or * protocols, such as Bluetooth, TDMA, COMA, 3G.

[0032] Where databases are described, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that (i) alternative database structures to those described may be readily employed, (ii) other memory structures besides databases may be readily employed.

Any schematic illustrations and accompanying descriptions of any sample databases * presented herein are exemplary arrangements for stored representations of information.

Any number of other arrangements may be employed besides those suggested by the tables shown. Similarly, any illustrated entries of the databases represent exemplary information only; those skilled in the art will understand that the number and content of the entries can be different from those illustrated herein. Further, despite any depiction of the databases as tables, an object-based model could be used to store and manipulate the data types of the present invention and likewise, object methods or behaviors can be used to implement the processes of the present invention.

[0033] A "computer system" may refer to a system having one or more computers, where each computer may include a computer-readable medium embodying software to operate the computer or one or more of its components. Examples of a computer system may include: a distributed computer system for processing information via computer systems linked by a network; two or more computer systems connected together via a network for transmitting and/or receiving information between the computer systems; a computer system including two or more processors within a single computer; and one or more apparatuses and/or one or more systems that may accept data, may process data in accordance with one or more stored software programs, may generate results, and typically may include input, output, storage, arithmetic, logic, and control units.

[00341 A "network" may refer to a number of computers and associated devices that may be connected by communication facilities. A network may involve permanent connections such as cables or temporary connections such as those made through telephone or other communication links. A network may further include hard-wired connections (e.g., coaxial cable, twisted pair, optical fiber, waveguides, etc.) and/or wireless connections (e.g., radio frequency waveforms, free-space optical waveforms, acoustic waveforms, etc.). Examples of a network may include: an internet, such as the Internet; an intranet; a local area network (LAN); a wide area network AN); and a :. combination of networks, such as an internet and an intranet.

* [0035] As used herein, the "client-side" application should be broadly construed to : * refer to an application, a page associated with that application, or some other resource or function invoked by a client-side request to the application. A "browser" as used herein is not intended to refer to any specific browser (e.g., Internet Explorer, Safari, FireFox, or the like), but should be broadly construed to refer to any client-side rendering * engine that can access and display Internet-accessible resources. A "rich" client typically refers to a non-HTTP based client-side application, such as an SSH or CFIS client.

Further, while typically the client-server interactions occur using HTTP, this is not a limitation either. The client server interaction may be formatted to conform to the Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) and travel over HTTP (over the public Internet), FTP, or any other reliable transport mechanism (such as IBM.RTM. MQSeries,RTM.

technologies and CORBA, for transport over an enterprise intranet) may be used. Any application or functionality described herein may be implemented as native code, by providing hooks into another application, by facilitating use of the mechanism as a plug-in, by linking to the mechanism, and the like.

[00361 Exemplary networks may operate with any of a number of protocols, such as Internet protocol (IP), asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), and/or synchronous optical network (SONET), user datagram protocol (hOP), IEEE 802.x, etc. [00371 Embodiments of the present invention may include apparatuses for performing the operations disclosed herein. An apparatus may be specially constructed for the desired purposes, or it may comprise a general-purpose device selectively activated or reconfigured by a program stored in the device.

[0038] Embodiments of the invention may also be implemented in one or a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. They may be implemented as instructions stored on a machine-readable medium, which may be read and executed by a computing platform to perform the operations described herein.

[0039] More specifically, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a "circuit," "module" or "system." Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.

[0040] In the following description and claims, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer readable medium" may be used to generally refer to media such as, but not limited to, removable storage drives, a hard disk installed in hard disk drive, and the like. These computer program products may provide software to a computer system. Embodiments of the invention may be directed to such computer program products.

[0041] An algorithm is here, and generally, considered to be a self-consistent sequence of acts or operations leading to a desired result. These include physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers or the like. It should be understood, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities.

[0042] Unless specifically stated otherwise, and as may be apparent from the following description and claims, it should be appreciated that throughout the specification descriptions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities within the computing system's registers and/or memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computing system's memories, registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0043] In a similar manner, the term "processor" may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data from registers and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that may be stored in registers and/or * * * memory. A "computing platform" may comprise one or more processors.

[0044] Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may also include tangible and/or non-transitory computer-readable storage media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such non-transitory computer-readable storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer, including the functional design of any S tss special purpose processor as discussed above. By way of example, and not limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions, data structures, or processor chip design. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or combination thereof) to a computer, the computer properly views the connection as a computer-readable medium.

Thus, any such connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium.

Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of the computer-readable media.

[0045] While a non-transitory computer readable medium includes, but is not limited to, a hard drive, compact disc, flash memory, volatile memory, random access memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, semiconductor based memory, phase change memory, optical memory, periodically refreshed memory, and the like; the non-transitory computer readable medium, however, does not include a pure transitory signal per Se; i.e., where the medium itself is transitory.

[0046] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. There are various types of barrier systems that may be provided by preferred embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, a barrier system may provide a secure barrier that allows a user to detect, view, and respond to an object without requiring the user to open the barrier system. In this manner, the user may enhance security with minimal contact with the object. The barrier system may include, without limitation, a door, a screen, a panel, and a vault safe door. In some embodiments, the barrier system may include a plurality of components for regulating the opening and securing of the barrier. The barrier system may further include an impact resistant material for resisting a high impact force. The barrier system may further include : *. components that allow the user to sense, through visual and other means, the presence * and identity of the object. Additionally, the barrier system may quickly and easily open for * the user to make an emergency escapes, such as escaping a fire.

10047] In one embodiment of the present invention, the barrier system may include an interior surface, outer surface, and a middle portion. The user may position on the side of the interior surface. The interior surface may provide the chief controls and regulation for opening and securing the barrier system. In some embodiments, the a.....

a interior surface may include an interior panel. The interior panel may include a removable surface that matches an adjacent wall. A viewing portion may allow the user to view the object. The viewing portion may include, without limitation, a smoky, one-way window, a peek hole, and a digital display. The interior surface may further include an interior display portion for viewing the object on the other side of the barrier. The interior surface may further include a maintenance portion for providing access to components of the barrier system. The maintenance portion may include a plurality of hingeable doors that provide access to the middle portion of the barrier system.

[0048] In one embodiment of the present invention, the barrier system may include an exterior surface. The object may position on the side of the exterior surface. The user may also open and/or secure the barrier system through the exterior surface. The exterior surface includes may include an exterior panel. The exterior panel may include a removable surface that coordinates color or pattern an adjacent wall. In some embodiments, the exterior surface may include an access portion for regulating the opening and securing of the barrier system. The access portion may include, without limitation, a keypad, a fingerprint scanner, and. a key hole. In some embodiments, the exterior portion may include a detection portion for detecting the object. The detection portion may include, without limitation, a motion detector, an infrared detector, a heat sensor, and a weight scale. In some embodiments, the exterior surface may include a camera portion. The camera portion may capture a visual depiction of the object. The visual depiction may be viewed on the interior display portion and a remote display portion. In some embodiments, the exterior portion may further include an exterior display portion for displaying messages from the user. For example, without limitation, the message may comprise, Leave package at the door", or "Please leave!". In some embodiments, the exterior portion may include an exterior lock indication portion. The lock indication portion may include a neon glow strip that glows green when the barrier :.". system is in an unlocked position and red when the barrier system is in a locked position.

I

In some embodiments the door may include an audio system to operate in conjunction with or in isolation of the video display.

[0049] In one embodiment of the present invention, the barrier system may include a middle portion that positions between the exterior surface and the interior surface. The middle portion may include an impact resistant portion. The impact resistant portion may be fabricated from a material efficacious for resisting impact, such as high trajectory missiles. The material may include, without limitation, aluminum, steel, titanium, and alloys. In some embodiments, the middle portion may include a fastening portion. The fastening portion may include at least one steel rod that extends and retracts from the middle portion. A motor may actuate a cylinder chamber where the steel rod rests. The bar may then pass through an aperture in adjacent barrier to help secure the barrier system into a locked position. The fastener portion may further include a pair of magnets that position on the barrier system and adjacent barrier to help sebure the barrier system in the locked position. A processor portion may help regulate the barrier system. In some embodiments, a fire detection portion may detect signs of fire, including, without limitation, smoke, carbon monoxide, and heat. The middle portion may further include a power source for providing power to the electrical components of the barrier system. The power portion may include a backup power source. The power portion may include, without limitation, a battery, a solar panel, and an external power cord. It may be envisaged that power is provided by a universal serial bus (USB) cable or a mains supply.

[0050] In some embodiments the barrier system may include a hook upon which an object can be hung, for example an umbrella or coat. Preferably the hook may be capable of being displaced so as to be arranged flush against the barrier when not in use. For example the hook may be foldable.

[0051] FIG. 1 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a barrier system 100 may provide a secure barrier that allows a user.to * detect1 view, and respond to an object without requiring the user to open the barrier. In this manner, the user may enhance security with minimal contact with the object. The barrier system may incorporate electrical components to automate the opening and securing of the barrier system. The barrier system may utilize a processor portion and , ..

: * various communication technologies to allow a user to communicate with the user and control the barrier system. The barrier system may further include an impact resistant portion for creating a bullet proof, sound proof barrier. The barrier system may further * ri include components that allow the user to sense, through visual and other means, the presence and identity of the object. For example, without limitation, the user may view an object through the door, and communicate to the object through a message screen. The user may also remotely identify the object and choose whether to open the barrier system remotely. Additionally, the barrier system may quickly and easily open for the user to make an emergency escapes, such as escaping a fire. In some embodiments, the barrier system may include, without limitation, a door, a screen, a panel, and a vault safe door. In other embodiments the door may include a docking station and speakers for a device such as an iPod (RTM) so as to play audio. The audio may be linked to lighting means so as to provide a lighting display such as disco lighting'. For example the lighting may be in time to the audio. The door may also optionally include a temperature sensor so as to determine temperature either side of the door. It may be envisaged that both temperatures can be displayed for the user, for example on a screen. Furthermore the door may include a sensor activated light for illuminating a dark or dimly lit area when for example movement is detected.

10052] FIGs. 2A and 2B illustrate a side view and a detailed perspective view of an exemplary interior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the barrier system may include an interior surface 200, outer surface, and a middle portion. The user may position on the side of the interior surface.

The interior surface may provide the chief controls and regulation for opening and securing the barrier system. In some embodiments, the interior surface may include an interior panel 202. The interior panel may include a removable surface that matches an adjacent wall. Typically the removable surface may be formed from a synthetic plastic such as a polycarbonate plastic or from glass. Preferably the removable surface may be coloured to match the interior surface 200. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the interior panel may provide an aesthetic surface for decoration. However, in other embodiments, the interior panel may include text or graphics for identifying the barrier system or giving directions. The interior surface may further include an interior display portion 204 for viewing the object on the other side of the barrier. The interior surface may further include a maintenance portion 206 for providing access to internal components of the barrier system. The maintenance portion * may include a plurality of hingeable panel the provide access to the middle portion of the barrier system. A viewing portion 208 may also allow the user to view the object. The * ** viewing portion may include, without limitation, a smoky one way mirror, a lens, a peek hole, and a digital screen. It may be envisaged that other means may be provided to detect presence beyond the barrier without opening the door. For example the barrier may include or be operable in conjunction with lasers, radar detection means, light sensors or gas analyzers in order to detect presence.

****** * * [0053] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate detailed perspective views of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary interior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the barrier system may provide a fast, visual indication of whether the barrier system is locked or unlocked. An interior lock indicator 302 may position on the interior surface. The interior lock indicator may include a linear, neon glow stick that illuminates green if the barrier system is unlocked, and red if the barrier system is locked.

(0054] FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate a side view and a detailed perspective view of an exemplary exterior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the barrier system may include an exterior surface 400. The object may position on the side of the exterior surface. The user may also open and/or secure the barrier system through the exterior surface. The exterior surface includes may include an exterior panel 402. The exterior panel may include a removable surface that matches an adjacent wall. The exterior surface may further include an exterior display portion for viewing the object on the other side of the barrier. In some embodiments, the exterior surface may include an access portion 404 for regulating the opening and securing of the barrier system. The access portion may include, without limitation, a keypad, a fingerprint scanner, and a key hole. In some embodiments, the exterior portion may include a detection portion 408 for detecting the object. The detection portion may include, without limitation, a motion detector, an infrared detector, a heat sensor, and a weight scale. In some embodiments, the exterior portion may further include an exterior display portion 406 for displaying messages from the user. For example, without limitation, the message may comprise, "Leave package at the door", or "Please leave!". In some embodiments, the exterior portion may include an exterior lock indication portion 410. The lock indication portion may include a neon glow strip that * glows green when the barrier system is in an unlocked position, and red when the barrier *..* * system is in a locked position.

[0055] FIGs. 5A and 5B illustrate detailed perspective views of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary exterior surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the exterior surface may include a camera *. * portion 502. The camera portion may capture a visual depiction of the object. The visual depiction may be viewed on the interior display portion and a remote display portion. In some embodiments, the camera portion operatively joins the remote control portion to provide a visual depiction of the object remotely! whereby the user may choose to unlock the barrier system.

[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary middle portion without an interior panel or an exterior panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the barrier system may include a middle portion 600 that positions between the exterior surface and the interior surface. The middle portion may include an impact resistant portion 602. The impact resistant portion may be fabricated from a material efficacious for resisting a high impact force, including, without limitation, a high trajectory missile, a bullet, and strong winds. The material may include, without limitation, aluminum, steel, titanium, and alloys. In some embodiments, the middle portion may include a fastening portion 604. The fastening portion may include at least one steel rod that extends and retracts from the middle portion. A motor may actuate a cylinder chamber where the steel rod rests. The bar may then pass through an aperture in adjacent barrier to help secure the barrier system into a locked position. The fastening portion may further include a pair of magnets that position on the barrier system and adjacent barrier to help secure the barrier system in the locked position. A processor portion 610 may help regulate the barrier system. In some embodiments, a fire detection portion 608 may detect signs of fire, including, without limitation, smoke, carbon monoxide, and heat. The fire detection portion may include, without limitation, a smoke detector, a thermal detector, and a liquid spray. The middle portion may further include a power source 606 for providing power to the electrical components of the barrier system. The power portion may include a backup power source. The power portion may include, without limitation, a battery, a solar panel, and an external power cord.

[0057] FIGs. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 70 illustrate various side views of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the barrier system may be shaped and dimensioned in various shapeS, including, without limitation, a rectangle, a square, an oval, and a pyramid.

[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates a blowup view of an exemplary barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the barrier system comprises a plurality of components for functioning. The components may be positioned in any combination on the interior surface, the exterior surface, and the middle surface. For example, without limitation, the camera portion may position on both the interior surface and the exterior surface, whereby both the user and the object may view each other.

[0059] FIGs. 9A and 9B illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary fastener portion and an exemplary access portion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the fastener portion may include rods that extend and retract from the middle portion into apertures of the adjacent barrier. In some embodiments, a pair of magnets may help lock the barrier system. In yet another embodiment, the rods may extend form anywhere on the perimeter of the barrier system.

[0060] FIGs. bA, lOG, and lOG illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary user remotely accessing the barrier system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the barrier system may be accessed and controlled remotely by the user. A remote control portion 1000 may display the locked and unlocked status of the barrier system. A signal 1002 may emit from the barrier system to signal the status of the barrier. In some embodiments, the barrier system may signal when a forced entry is attempted on the barrier system. In some embodiments, the remote control portion may include a keypad for entering commands to the barrier system. The commands may include, without limitation, a lock command, an unlock command, an alert police command, and a take a picture command.

(0061] In one alternative embodiment, the barrier system comprises a window. In yet another alternative embodiment, the barrier system includes a timed locking device that secures the fastening portion at a predetermined time. In yet another alternative embodiment, the barrier system is interchangeable with other barrier systems. In yet another alternative embodiment, the fire detection portion may include an extinguisher and a plurality of sprayers to help extinguish a fire. In yet another alternative : embodiment, the camera portion may include face recognition software, whereby a * predetermined visual depiction of a face may automatically actuate the fastening portion to the unlock position.

[0062] FIG. 11 illustrates a typical computer system that, when appropriately configured or designed, can serve as an exemplary method for identification, in * accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a * communication system 1100 includes a multiplicity of clients with a sampling of clients denoted as a client 1102 and a client 1104, a multiplicity of local networks with a sampling of networks denoted as a local network 1106 and a local network 1108, a global network 1110 and a multiplicity of servers with a sampling of servers denoted as a server 1112 and a server 1114.

[0063] Client 1102 may communicate bi-directionally with local network 1106 via a communication channel 1116. Client.1104 may communicate bi-directionally with local network 1108 via a communication channel 1118. Local network 1106 may communicate bi-directionally with global network 1110 via a communication channel 1120. Local network 1108 may communicate bi-directionally with global network 1110 via a communication channel 1122. Global network 1110 may communicate bi-directionally with server 1112 and server 1114 via a communication channel 1124.

Server 1112 and server 1114 may communicate bi-directionally with each other via communication channel 1124. Furthermore, clients 1102, 1104, local networks 1106, 11Q8, global network 1110 and servers 1112, 1114 may each communicate bi-directionally with each other.

[0064] In one embodiment! global network 1110 may operate as the Internet. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that communication system 1100 may take many different forms. Non-limiting examples of forms for communication system 1100 include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (VVANs), wired telephone networks, wireless networks, or any other network supporting data communication between respective entities.

[0065] Clients 1102 and 1104 may take many different forms. Non-limiting examples of clients 1102 and 1104 include personal computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), cellular phones and smartphones.

[0066] Client 1102 includes a CPU 1126, a pointing device 1128, a keyboard 1130, a microphone 1132, a printer 1134, a memory 1136, a mass memory storage * * 1138, a GUI 1140, a video camera 1142, an input/output interface 1144 and a network : **. interface 1146. *...

[0061] CPU 1126, pointing device 1128, keyboard 1130, microphone 1132, printer 1134, memory 1136, mass memory storage 1138, GUI 1140, video camera 1142, **.* input/output interface 1144 and network interface 1146 may communicate in a ****. unidirectional manner or a bi-directional manner with each other via a communication channel 1148. Communication channel 1148 may be configured as a single communication channel or a multiplicity of communication channels.

[0068] CPU 1126 may be comprised of a single processor or multiple processors.

CPU 1126 may be of various types including micro-controllers (e.g., with embedded RAMIROM) and microprocessors such as programmable devices (e.g., RISC or SISC based, or CPLD5 and FPGAs) and devices not capable of being programmed such as gate array ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) or general purpose microprocessors.

[0069] As is well known in the art, memory 1136 is used typically to transfer data and instructions to CPU 1126 in a bi-directional manner. Memory 1136, as discussed previously, may include any suitable computer-readable media, intended for data storage, such as those described above excluding any wired or wireless transmissions unless specifically noted. Mass memory storage 1138 may also be coupled bi-directionally to CPU 1126 and provides additional data storage capacity and may include any of the computer-readable media described above. Mass memory storage 1138 may be used to store programs, data and the like and is typically a secondary storage medium such as a hard disk. It will be appreciated that the information retained within mass memory storage 1138, may1 in appropriate cases, be incorporated in standard fashion as part of memory 1136 as virtual memory.

10070] CPU 1126 may be coupled to GUI 1140. GUI 1140 enables a user to view the operation of computer operating system and software. CPU 1126 may be coupled to pointing device 1128. Non-limiting examples of pointing device 1128 include computer mouse, trackball and touchpad. Pointing device 1128 enables a user with the capability to maneuver a computer cursor about the viewing area of GUI 1140 and select areas or features in the viewing area of GUI 1140. CPU 1126 may be coupled to keyboard 1130.

Keyboard 1130 enables a user with the capability to input alphanumeric textual * information to CPU 1126. CPU 1126 may be coupled to microphone 1132. Microphone 1132 enables audio produced by a user to be recorded, processed and communicated by CPU 1126. CPU 1126 may be connected to printer 1134. Printer 1134 enables a user with the capability to print information to a sheet of paper. CPU 1126 may be "1 connected to video camera 1142. Video camera 1142 enables video produced or * : " captured by user to be recorded, processed and communicated by CPU 1126.

100711 CPU 1126 may also be coupled to input/output interface 1144 that connects to one or more input/output devices such as such as CD-ROM, video monitors, track balls, mice, keyboards, microphones, touch-sensitive displays, transducer card readers, magnetic or paper tape readers, tablets, styluses, voice or handwriting recognizers, or other well-known input devices such as, of course, other computers.

[0072] Finally, Cpu 1126 optionally may be coupled to network interface 1146 which enables communication with an external device such as a database or a computer or telecommunications or internet network using an external connection shown generally as communication channel 1116, which may be implemented as a hardwired or wireless communications link using suitable conventional technologies. With such a connection, Cpu 1126 might receive information from the network, or might output information to a network in the course of performing the method steps described in the teachings of the present invention.

[0073] The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. * * * * * * * * ** * * * *eet * * **** * *