GB2610322A

GB2610322A - An attachment system

Info

Publication number: GB2610322A
Application number: GB2215466.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Bromley Ryan; Jameson Thomas
Original assignee: Avantis Hardware Ltd
Current assignee: Avantis Hardware Ltd
Priority date: 2019-05-20
Filing date: 2019-05-20
Publication date: 2023-03-01
Anticipated expiration: 2039-05-20
Also published as: GB2610322B; GB202215466D0

Abstract

An attachment system provided on a door or window is configured to sense a condition (opened, closed, unlocked, locked) of the door or window. The attachment system comprises: a securing member 3 mounted to a frame member 111 of the door or window; and a module 2, coupled to a frame member 111 via the securing member 3. The module 2 includes an induction coil sensor (21,fig.26) to sense the condition of the door or window. The securing member 3 is configured to space the module 2 from at least part of the frame member 111 such that the sensor (21,fig.26) is positioned to sense the condition of the door or window. The securing member 3 is configured to fit between a frame (11,fig.28) of the door or window and a moveable panel (12,fig.28) thereof such that the moveable panel (12,fig.28) can be moved between open and closed conditions without the securing member 3 fouling this operation of the door or window.

Description

Title: An attachment system

Description of Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to an attachment system for use in coupling a module of the system (including a sensor) to a frame member, to a module (including a sensor), a securing member, and to various associated 10 methods.

A door or window may be in at least one of four conditions -open, closed, unlocked and locked. A homeowner or another person may want to check the status of the door or window without having to test the door or window manually -for example, they may wish to check the status while away from home.

Sensors are available which sense the condition of a door or window, and which communicate this to another device (via which the user can determine the condition of the door or window).

There may be a need to attach such a sensor or another element to the door or window frame, for example.

The present invention seeks to provide an improved attachment system for a door or window frame.

Accordingly, there is provided an attachment system for a door or window, the attachment system being configured to sense a condition of a door or window, the attachment system including. a securing member configured to be mounted to a frame member of the door or window; and a module, configured to be coupled to a frame member by attachment to the securing member, the module including a sensor to sense the condition of the door or window, and the securing member including a resiliently biased clip configured to retain the module in attachment to the securing member selectively, wherein the securing member is configured space the module from at least part of the frame member such that the sensor is positioned to sense the condition of the door or window.

The securing member may be a substantially planar member.

The securing member may include fixing arrangement to secure the securing member to the frame member.

The fixing arrangement may include a fixing element and a fixing receiver, the fixing element may be configured to be received by the fixing receiver and to 15 engage the frame member.

The securing member may include a body defining one or more grooves, the or each groove may be configured to receive at least part of the frame member.

The securing member may include a receiving configuration and the module may include one or more pins, the or each pin may be configured to be received by the receiving configuration, and the resilient clip may be configured to inhibit the removal of the or each pin from the receiving configuration selectively.

The receiving configuration may include an inclined locking surface configured to engage and guide part of at least one of the or each pin.

The resilient clip may include a drive surface and a latch surface, the module may include a latch element including a drive surface and a latch surface, the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element may be configured to engage as the module is secured to the securing member such that the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element engage.

The resilient clip may be part of a coupling configuration of the securing member which further includes an elongate member and an actuation portion, wherein manual operation of the actuation portion may be configured to move at least part of the elongate member to release the resilient clip.

The sensor may be a reed switch.

The sensor may be a mechanical switch.

Another aspect provides a door or window including an attachment system.

The securing arrangement may be configured to fit between a frame of the door or window and a moveable panel of the door or window, such that the 20 moveable panel may be moveable between open and closed conditions without the securing member fouling this operation of the door or window.

The securing member may be inaccessible when the door or window is in the closed condition.

The moveable panel may be configured to move with respect to the frame member when the door or window may be operated between the open and closed conditions.

The moveable panel may be configured to move with the frame member when the door or window is operated between the open and closed conditions.

Another aspect provides a door or window including a frame member and a securing member, wherein the securing member is suitable for use in an attachment system.

Another aspect provides a method of manufacturing a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the 10 frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window as above.

Another aspect provides a method of fitting a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window as above.

Another aspect provides a method of fitting a module to a door or window, including: identifying a door or window as above; proving a module; and fitting the module to the securing member.

The method may further include operating the door or window to an open condition before fitting the module to the securing member Embodiments are described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a section of a frame member including a securing member; Figure 2 shows another view of a section of a frame member including a 30 securing member; Figure 3 shows a cross-section view of a section of a frame member including a securing member (through the section line indicated in figure 2); Figure 4 is a detail view of the part indicated in figure 3; Figure 5 shows a securing member rear/back/inner face; Figure 6 shows a cross-section view of a securing member (through the section line indicated in figure 5); Figure 7 is a detail view of the part indicated in figure 6; Figure 8 shows a securing member front/outer face; Figure 9 shows a securing member side view; Figure 10 is a cross-section through a frame member with a securing member attached; Figure 11 shows a module and securing member, with a section of frame member (as part of an initial step of fitting the module); Figure 12 shows a module and securing member, with a section of frame member (as part of an intermediate step of fitting the module); Figure 13 shows a module and securing member, with a section of frame member (with the module fitted to the securing member); Figure 14 shows view of a section of a frame member including a securing member and a module On the intermediate step of fitting of the module); Figure 15 shows a cross-section view of a section of a frame member including a securing member and module (through the section line indicated in figure 14); Figure 16 is a detail view of the part indicated in figure 15; Figure 17 shows view of a section of a frame member including a securing member and a module (with the module fitted to the securing member); Figure 18 shows a cross-section view of a section of a frame member including a securing member and module (through the section line indicated in figure 17); Figure 19 is a detail view of the part indicated in figure 18; Figure 20 shows a front/outer view of a module; Figure 21 shows a rear/inner view of a module; Figure 22 shows a side view of a module; Figure 23 shows a bottom view of a module; Figure 24 shows a perspective front/outer view of a module; Figure 25 shows a perspective rear/inner view of a module; Figure 26 schematically shows a module and hub; Figure 27 schematically shows an attachment system; and Figure 28 shows a door.

In accordance with embodiments, a door or window 1 may be provided (see figure 28, for example).

The door or window 1 may include a frame 11 and a moveable panel 12 (the moveable panel 12 being moveable with respect to at least part of the frame 11).

The frame 11 may include one or more frame members 111. The one or more frame members 111 may define an aperture of the door or window 1. In particular, the one or more frame members 111 may surround a perimeter of the aperture of the door or window 1. In some embodiments, the aperture is generally rectangular, or square, or circular (but may be any suitable shape). Each of the one or more frame members 111 may extend along a portion of the perimeter of the aperture of the door or window 1.

In the case of a rectangular aperture, the frame 11 may include a first pair of frame members 111a, each frame member 111 of the first pair 111a being arranged generally parallel to the other frame member 111 of the first pair 111a. The frame members 111 of the first pair 111a may be of substantially the same length and may be separated from each other across a width of the aperture. The length of the first pair of frame members 111a may define a height of the aperture. The frame 11 may include a second pair of frame members 111b, each frame member 111 of the second pair 111b being arranged generally parallel to the other frame member 111 of the second pair 111b. The frame members 111 of the second pair 111b may be of substantially the same length and may be separated from each other across a height of the aperture. The length of the second pair of frame members 111b may define a width of the aperture. The first pair of frame members 111a may be substantially perpendicular to the second pair of frame members 111b.

The panel 12 may be mounted to the frame 11 such that the panel 12 is rotatable with respect to at least one frame member 111 of the frame 11. In some embodiments, the panel 12 is mounted to the frame 11 using a hinge mechanism. In some embodiments, the panel 12 is mounted for rotation with respect to (and may be about an axis defined by) a one of the first pair of frame members 111a or a one of the second pair of frame members 111b.

Accordingly, the panel 12 may be moveable between open and closed conditions with respect to the frame 11 (e.g. by rotation with respect to at least one frame member 111). In the open condition, the door or window aperture is at least partially open such that passage through the aperture is permitted. In the closed condition, the door or window aperture is closed or substantially closed such that passage through the aperture is inhibited or substantially prevented. The passage may be of a person or an object, for example.

The door or window 1 may include a lock or latch mechanism 13 (which may be a lock and latch mechanism). The lock or latch mechanism 13 may be configured to be actuated between a locked condition and an unlocked condition. In the locked condition, with the panel 12 in the closed condition, the panel 12 is restricted or substantially prevented from moving to the open condition. In the unlocked condition, the panel 12 may be permitted to move towards the open condition. The locked and unlocked conditions of the lock or latch mechanism 13, therefore, may correspond to locked and unlocked conditions of the door or window.

In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism 13 is a lock mechanism and a key may be required to actuate the lock mechanism between the locked and unlocked conditions. In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism 13 is a latch mechanism and a handle may be provided (as part of the latch mechanism) which may actuate the latch mechanism between the locked (or latched) condition and the unlocked (or unlatched) condition -the latch mechanism may not require a key for such actuation. In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism 13 is a lock and latch mechanism such that the mechanism can be actuated between (i) a latched and locked condition, (ii) a latched and unlocked condition, and (ii) an unlocked and unlatched condition. Herein, unless otherwise stated, the reference to a locked condition may include a latched condition and the reference to a unlocked condition may include an unlatched condition (irrespective of whether this is also a reference to a locked and unlocked condition).

The lock or latch mechanism 13 mechanism could take a number of different forms. For example, the lock or latch mechanism 13 may include at least one first member moveable with respect to a second member between the unlocked/unlatched and locked/latched conditions. The first member may be a bolt and the second member may be a keep. In some embodiments, the first member is mounted on a locking bar (e.g. rail) and may be in the form of a pin, whilst the second member may be a receiver for the pin (to receive and retain the pin). The first member may be mounted to the panel 12 and the second member may be mounted to the frame 11 or vice versa. Other lock or latch mechanisms 13 are envisaged but will generally include a first member which moves with respect to a second member, which then receives the first member in the locked condition and releases the first member is in the unlocked condition.

In some embodiments, at least part of the frame (such as a frame member 111) is, in fact, part of another moveable panel 12 (e.g. in a multi-door arrangement) -the aperture of the door or window 1 being defined by another frame 11, for example. In such embodiments, the first member may be mounted to a first panel and the second member to a second panel (the two panels being general adjacent each other when in the closed conditions).

In some embodiments, the frame member 111 is part of the moveable panel 12 and moves therewith. In such embodiments a further frame 11 may be provided to define the aperture of the door or window 1.

In other words, the frame member 111 may be part of the frame 11 defining the aperture or may be part of the panel 12.

Although panels 12 which rotate with respect to at least part of the frame 11 have been described above and elsewhere herein, some embodiments may include at least one panel 12 which is configured to slide linearly with respect to at least part of the frame 11 (or another panel 12-so providing two panels 12 slideable with respect to each other, in some embodiments).

Embodiments include a module 2 (see figures 11-27, for example) The module 2 is configured to be coupled to the frame member 111 of the door or window 1, or to the panel 12. The module 2 may house electrical or mechanical components.

The module 2 may be provided to allow sensing of the condition of the door or window 1. The module 2 may, therefore, be configured to sense a condition of the door or window 1.

The module 2 includes (and may house) a sensor 21. The sensor 21 may be configured to sense the condition of the door or window 1. For example, the sensor 21 may be configured to sense the position of the door or window panel 12 with respect to the frame 11 (for example, with respect to a frame member 111 or of the frame member 111 with respect to the frame 11 in embodiments in which the frame member 111 is part of the panel 12). The sensor 21 may also or alternatively be configured to sense the condition of the latch or lock mechanism 13.

For example, the sensor 21 may be in the form of a reed switch. A magnet may be provided. With the module 2 mounted to the frame 11, the magnet may be mounted to the panel 12, or vice versa. The magnet may be located such that, with the door or window 1 in the closed condition, the reed switch is actuated to an "on" state but with the door or window 1 in the open condition, the reed switch is in an "off" state. The magnet may be mounted for movement with the first member (of the lock or latch mechanism 13) such that, with the door or window 1 in the locked condition, the reed switch is actuated to an "on" state but with the door or window 1 in the unlocked condition, the reed switch is in an "off' state.

In some embodiments, the sensor 21 is a mechanical switch rather than a reed switch, for example. The mechanical switch may be actuated between on and off states by physical contact, for example. The mechanical switch may be a micro-switch.

The sensor 21 may be a motion or proximity sensor which does not require physical contact for actuation -a reed switch being one example of such a sensor 21 another example being an induction coil, for example.

For the correct operation of the sensor 21, the module 2 may therefore need to be located on the frame 11 or panel 12 in close proximity to the other of the frame 11 or panel 12 when the window or door 1 is in the closed condition and/or in close proximity to the lock or latch mechanism 13 (e.g. when in the locked condition). The module 2 must not, however, foul the operation of the door or window 1, or the lock or latch mechanism 13. The spacing of the module 2 with respect to the frame member 111 may, therefore, be important.

The module 2 may include (and may house) a power source 22, for powering powered elements of the module 2, or may include a connection (for example, a port or other socket to allow connection of a cable) for connecting the module 2 to a power source 22. For example, the module 2 may be connectable to a mains electrical power supply. In some embodiments, the power source 22 is in the form of a battery. The battery may be a rechargeable battery and the power source may include a connection (such as a port or other socket) to enable recharging of the battery. In some embodiments, the battery is not rechargeable. In some embodiments, the battery is replaceable such that the battery is removable from the module 2 and can be replaced without substantive damage to the module 2. In some embodiments, the battery is not replaceable -such that the module 2 may be a so-called sealed unit -and removal of the battery from the module 2 may, therefore, damage to the module 2 or may require specialist tools.

The module 2 may include (and may house) a controller 23, for example to control operation of the sensor 21. The module 2 may include a processor 25, configured to process sensed information from the sensor 21. In some embodiments, the controller 23 is provided as part of the processor 25 and/or is the processor 25.

The module 2 may include (and may house) a communications subsystem 24. The communications setup 24 may be configured to communicate with another device and that communication may be wireless communication or may be over a wired communication channel or both. The communications subsystem 24 may include a transmitter and/or a receiver, or only a transceiver (i.e. without a receiver). The communication subsystem 24 may be configured to communicate with another device using radio frequency waves -for example, using WiFi C) or Zigbee ® or Bluetooth C), or a similar radio frequency protocol.

The communication subsystem 24 may be operated by the controller/processor 23/25 and may be powered by the power source 22.

The communications subsystem 24 may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window 1 (as sensed by the sensor 21) to a hub 24a. The hub 24a may be configured to collect and/or forward the received information to yet another device (such as a server, for example). The hub 24a may, therefore, provide an interface between the communication channel used to communicate with the module 2 (which may be relatively short range communication and may be a local area network) and the communication channel used to communicate with the yet another device (which may be relatively long range communication and may be a wide area network such as the Internet).

In some embodiments, a user may use a computing device (such as a mobile telephone, laptop, desktop, tablet, or the like) to interrogate the hub 24a and/or the yet another device to obtain information about the condition of the door or window 1. The computing device may be configured to receive this information and to present an indication to the user about the current condition of the door or window 1 (e.g. a visual indication about the state of the door or window 1 in substantially real-time and/or a historic record of changes in that state).

The communications subsystem 24 may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window 1 to the hub 24a or another device periodically or on request from the hub 24a or other device.

Likewise, the hub 24a may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window 1 to another device periodically or on request 10 The module 2 may include (and may house) a computer readable medium 26 storing instructions which, when executed by the processor/controller 25/23 cause the performance of the operations of the module 2 -such as the sensing of the condition of the door or window 1 and the transmission of that condition.

The module 2 may be a self-contained unit. The module 2 may be a sealed unit. The module 2 may include a housing 200 in which the various components thereof are located. The housing 200 may be sealed against the ingress of water. The housing 200 may be such that opening of the housing to access the internal components of the module 2 may cause damage to the housing 200 or may require specialist tools.

In some embodiments, the housing 200 is a two-part housing including a main part and a lid part -the main and lid parts being configured to be coupled together to provide the housing 200. The lid part may be removably coupled to the main part. One or more fixing elements may be provided to enable to the main part and the lid part to the coupled to each other -such as one or more threaded members such as a screw (which may, as depicted for example, have a Torx® head or other suitable specialist alternative). The main part and the lid part may have correspondingly shaped mating edges and these edges may include one or more locating features (such as a protrusion and corresponding cut-out) in order to aid in fitting of the lid part to the main part.

The module 2 may include a front portion 201 which, when fitted as described herein, is generally visible to the user (when the door or window 1 is in the open condition) and may include a back portion 202 which may couple the module 2 to the frame 11 or panel 12. In some embodiments, the main part of the housing 200 provides the back portion 202 and the lid part provides the front portion 201.

The front portion 201 may be in the form of a fascia and/or may include one or more decorative elements.

The housing 200 may include a stepped feature such that a first part of the housing 200 has a first depth and a second part of the housing 200 has a second depth (the first depth being greater than the second depth).

In some embodiments, at least part of the sensor 21 may be positions relatively closer to the front portion 201 than the back portion 202, and may, indeed, extend from the front portion 201 (in a direction away from both the front and back portions 201,202).

In some embodiments, the housing 200 may include a raised section (which may be raised from the first and/or second part of the housing 200) which may contain the sensor 21 or at least part thereof The stepped feature (and/or the raised section) may aid the user in the fitting of the module 2, as will be apparent from the description in this regard presented herein, by proving a means for better application of a manual force to the module 2.

The housing 200 may be generally rectangular (e.g. a rounded rectangle) -5 although other shapes are envisaged. One or more corners of the housing 200 may be rounded at a different radius than one or more other corners of the housing 200.

The module 2 may include a coupling arrangement 27 and this may be at least partially located on or as part of the back portion 202 of the housing 200 of the module 2.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the coupling arrangement 27 includes one or more pins 271 which may extend from a main surface of the back portion 202 of the housing 200. The or each pin 271 may extend generally perpendicular to a plane of the back portion 202 of the housing 200. The or each pin 271 may be generally mushroom shaped -such that a proximal end nearest the main surface of the back portion 202 has a first cross-section and a distal end remote from the proximal end has a second cross-section which is larger (in at least one dimension) than the first cross-section. The or each pin 271 may have a circular cross-section (and the first and/or second cross-sections may be circular or rectangular) -although other shapes are envisaged (such as a stadium-shaped cross-section). In some embodiments, the or each pin 271 may, therefore, include a shaft (with the first cross-section) and a head (with the second cross-section). In some embodiments in which the or each pin 271 has a stadium-shaped cross-section, the flat parts thereof may be arranged at top and bottom parts of the or each pin 271, and the rounded parts thereof may be arranged at side parts of the or each pin 271 (with the module 2 an upright configuration as depicted).

In the depicted and some other embodiments, there may be two pins 271 provided.

In some embodiments (including those depicted), the coupling arrangement 27 includes one or more latch elements 272. The or each latch element 272 may include a recess in a main surface of the housing 200 (which may be the main surface of the back portion 202 of the housing 200) and/or a protrusion from a main surface of the housing 200 (which, again, may be the main surface of the back portion 202 of the housing 200).

In some embodiments, including those depicted, there is at least one latch element 272 in the form of a protrusion with a triangular or partially triangular cross-section. The protrusion may, therefore, include a drive surface 272a and a latch surface 272b. The drive surface 272a may be inclined with respect to the main surface of the back portion 202 of the housing 200, for example. The latch surface 272b may extend perpendicular to the main surface of the back portion 202 of the housing 200, for example. The drive surface 272a may be inclined with respect to a direction of movement of the housing 200 (and/or module 2) when fitting the module 2 -as will be apparent from the

relevant parts of the description herein.

In embodiments in which the at least one latch element 272 includes a recess, the recess may be similarly shaped to have a drive surface and a latch surface.

In some embodiments, including those depicted, the or each pin 271 and the or each latch element 272 may be aligned along a common axis, which may be a longitudinal axis of the housing 200 (and this axis may be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of a frame member 111 to which the module 2 is to be coupled). In at least the depicted embodiments, this a a vertical axis with the module 2 fitted.

Embodiments include a securing member 3 (see figures 1-18, for example). 5 The securing member 3 may be configured to be fixed to the frame 11 or to the panel 12 (e.g. the frame member 111). The module 2 may be configured to be fixed to the securing member 3. Accordingly, the module 2 may be attached to the frame 11 or panel 12 using (i.e. via) the securing member 3. The securing member 3 may be sandwiched between the module 2 and the 10 frame member 111 when so secured in place.

In some embodiments, the module 2 is secured to the frame member 111 solely by the securing member 3 and, in some such embodiments, no part of the module 2 touches or is otherwise in direct contact with the frame member 111.

The securing member 3 may include a body 31. The body 31 may include a fixing arrangement 32 for use in securing the securing member 3 to the frame member 111. The fixing arrangement 32 could take a number of different 20 forms and may include more than one element.

For example, the fixing arrangement 32 may include a clip, hook or the like, configured to engage a part of the frame member 111. The fixing arrangement 32 may include a portion of the body 31 which can be moved with respect to another portion of the body 31 so as to increase a dimension of the body 31 an enable the body 31 to be secured between two opposing parts of the frame member 111, for example (i.e. in an outward clamping action). Likewise, the fixing arrangement 32 may include a portion of the body 31 which can be moved with respect to another portion of the body 31 so as to decrease a distance between the two portions to enable the two portions to clamp a part of the frame member 111 therebetween, for example (i.e. in an inward clamping action).

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the fixing arrangement 32 may include a fixing element 32a which is configured to be received by or otherwise mate with a fixing receiver 32b provided as part of the body 31. The fixing receiver 32b may be a through-hole defined by the body 31 or a slot defined by the body 31, for example. The fixing element 32a may be screw (which may be a self-tapping screw), a rivet, a nut and bolt arrangement, a nail, or the like.

In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement 32 may be or include an adhesive (such as an adhesive covered pad which may be sandwiched between the body 31 and the frame member 111).

The body 31 of the securing member 3 may have an outer face (i.e. a face which is opposite an inner face which is secured to face the frame member 111) which is generally rectangular in shape, for example but other shapes are envisaged. In the depicted and some other embodiments, the outer face has a first part which is generally rectangular and a second part which extends therefrom and which is generally triangular (or a trapezoid). The inner face may be of generally the same shape as the outer face and a depth of the securing member 3 (and body 31) may be defined between the inner and outer faces thereof. As will be appreciated, the shapes of the inner and outer faces may define at least part of a shape of the body 31 and, therefore, the securing member 3.

In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement 32 may be located generally centrally with respect the securing member 3. In some embodiments, this may be generally through or adjacent part of the rectangular part of the outer and/or inner faces.

In some embodiments, more than one such fixing arrangement 32 is provided. 5 Each fixing arrangement 32 in such embodiments may be spaced apart across the body 31 -e.g. there may be a plurality of fixing receivers 32b each configured to receive a fixing element 32a.

The fixing element 32a (or each fixing element 32a in some embodiments) may be configured to be countersunk with respect to the body 11 and outer face -such that, for example, no part of the fixing element 32a extends substantially above the outer face. The fixing receiver 32b (or fixing receivers 32b in some embodiments) may be correspondingly formed, therefore, to allow for this countersunk configuration.

In some embodiments, there is a single (i.e. one and only one) fixing arrangement 32.

In some embodiments, as mentioned, the fixing element 32a may be a self-tapping screw which is configured to be passed through the fixing receiver 32b and then driven into the frame 11 (e.g. the frame member 111).

Accordingly, the securing mechanism 3 may be secured to the frame 11 (e.g. to the frame member 111 -which may be a frame member 111 of the first pair 111a or the second pair 111b -or the panel 12 (as discussed herein the frame member 111 may be parts of the panel 12 rather than the frame 11).

The securing member 3 and, in some embodiments, the body 31 may define one or more grooves 33. The or each groove 33 may be defined in the inner 30 face of the body 31. The or each groove 33 may be a linear groove 32. The or each groove 31 may be configured to receive a part of the frame member 111.

In particular, the frame member 111 may include one or more elongate projections along a length thereof. Such elongate projections may be configured for use in the fitting of a seal member to the frame member 111, or may be part of the structure of the frame member 111 to improve rigidity thereof, for example.

The or each groove 31 may extend through an entire length of a part of the securing member 3 (e.g. the body 31) and this may be the trapezoid part of the body 31 in some embodiments. The or each groove 31 may be open ended. The or each groove 31 may help in the locating of the securing member 3 with respect to the frame member 111. Accordingly, the or each groove 31 may be positioned in the body 31 at a position determined by the configuration of the frame member 111.

The securing member 3 may include a coupling configuration 34. The coupling configuration 34 of the securing member 3 may be configured to mate with or otherwise receive (or engage) at least part of the coupling arrangement 27 of the module 2 -herein referred to as the fitting of the module 2 to the securing member 3. The fitting of the module 2 to the securing member 3, using the coupling configuration 34 and the coupling arrangement 27, may secure the module 2 to the securing member 3.

In some embodiments, the coupling configuration 34 includes a receiving configuration 341 to engage the coupling arrangement 27 or a part thereof (such as a clip or hook). In some embodiments, the arrangement is the other way around and the coupling configuration 27 may include a hook or clip and the coupling arrangement 27 may include the receiving configuration.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the receiving configuration 341 includes at least one aperture 341a (defined in the body 31, for example). There may be a corresponding number of apertures 341a to the number of pins 271, for example -with each aperture 341a configured to receive a pin 271. Accordingly, the location of the or each aperture 341a may correspond with the location of the or each pin 271 to allow the fixing as described herein of the module 2 to the securing member 3.

The or each aperture 341a may be a through-hole (or slot) in the body 31 or may be a blind-hole (or slot) in the outer face of the body 31.

In some embodiments, the or each aperture 341a may include two respective pads -a wide part and a narrow part, the two pads may be along different lengths of the or each aperture 341a which may be in the form of a slot (which may also, as will be appreciated have a depth through the body 31. The wide part may be sized to allow the head of the corresponding pin 271 therethrough and the narrow part may be sized to prevent the head of the corresponding pin 271 from passing therethrough (but still sufficiently large to receive the neck of the pin 271). Accordingly, a pin 271 may be inserted into the corresponding aperture 341a through the wide part and then moved (linearly) across the aperture 341a until the neck of the pin 271 is passing through the narrow part and the head cannot be removed from the aperture 341a (other than be reversing the linear movement to align the head of the pin 271 with the wide part again).

As depicted, and in some other embodiments, there may two such apertures 341a and two such pins 271. There may be more than one receiving configuration 341. The two (or more) apertures 341a may be aligned with 30 each other along a common axis.

The coupling configuration 34 may include a resiliently biased clip 342. The resiliently biased clip 342 may be configured to retain the module 2 selectively with the coupling configuration 34 and coupling arrangement 27 engaged with each other (so that the module 2 is fixed to the securing member 3).

The resilient biased clip 342 may be configured to engage at least of the module 2 to retain the module 2 in position with respect to the securing member 3. In particular, in some embodiments, with the one or more pins 271 retained by the receiving configuration 341 (e.g. the at least one aperture 341a), the resiliently biased clip 342 may selectively prevent disengagement of the or each pin 271 from the or each receiving configuration 341. This may, include, for example, preventing (selectively) movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3 such that the respective heads of the or each pin 271 are not aligned with the wide part of the corresponding aperture 341a (e.g. such that the neck part remains aligned with the narrow part of the corresponding aperture 341a).

The resilient clip 341 may be configured to engage (selectively) the or each latch element 272.

Accordingly, the resilient clip 341 may include a non-return clip 342a which is configured to engage at least one of the one or more latch elements 272. The non-return clip 342a may have a generally triangular cross-section with an inclined drive surface 342aa and a latch surface 342ab. The drive surface 342aa of the non-return clip 342a may be sized and positioned so as to abut the drive surface 272a of a corresponding latch element 272. The continued linear movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3 against this abutment may cause deflection (against the resilient biasing force of the resiliently biased clip 342) until the two drive surfaces 342aa,272a have passed over each other. The biasing force may then cause the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab to engage each other. These two latch surfaces 272b,342ab may be configured such that, when so engaged, reversal of the linear movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing mechanism 3 is substantially prevented.

The non-return clip 342a may be mounted on a part of the resiliently biased clip 342 which may provide the resilient biasing force. Accordingly the non-return clip 342a may be a member without any resilient biasing itself (which may be provided by another part of the resiliently biased clip 342). This part may be an elongate member 343 extending from the body 11, for example. The elongate member 343 may be formed form the same material as the body 31 (e.g. a plastics material). The resilient biasing force may be provided by virtue of the rigidity of the material used to form the elongate member 343 and/or the body 31. There may, however, be sufficient flexibility in the elongate member 343 and/or its coupling to the body 31 to permit deflection to allow the two drive surfaces 272a,342aa to move over each other. This flexibility may be provided, in part, by a living hinge (which may be a relatively stiff living hinge) between the elongate member 343 and the body 31.

The elongate member 343 may extend with respect to the body 31 from a side thereof (which may, in the depicted embodiments, be a top side of the body 31). The elongate member 343 may be a generally planar member with respect to the main body 31.

The resiliently biased clip 34 may include an actuation portion 343a. The actuation portion 343a may be a button and/or may be configured to be manually operated by a user.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the actuation portion 343a is located at a distal end of the elongate member 343 (the proximal end being coupled to the body 31). The actuation portion 343a may include a head which is configured to enable relatively easy manual operation by the user. In some embodiments (e.g. such as those depicted), actuating the actuation portion 343a may require an external force (e.g. from a user's digit) to move the actuation portion 343a against the biasing force of the resiliently biased clip 342 to disengage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab (to allow reversal of the movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3, as described herein). For example, a user may press the actuation portion 343a and this may disengage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab.

The head of the actuation portion 343a may have a depth which is greater than another pad of the elongate member 343 (e.g. a part which is behind the module 2 when that module 2 is so fitted) -to make it easier for the user to actuate when the module 2 fitted to the securing member 3. The head may have a semi-circular cross-section, for example -although other shapes are envisaged. The head may be located to a side (e.g. a top side) of the module 2, with the module 2 fitted to the securing member 3. This may be achieved by virtue of the length, for example of the elongate member 343.

As will be appreciated, the orientation of the resiliently biased clip 342 must, in some embodiments, be aligned with that of the receiving configuration 341. This enables the receipt of the or each pin 271 in one or more respective apertures 341a and the linear movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3 to engage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab. This engagement may then prevent the reverse movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3.

Although embodiments have been depicted and described with linear movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3, rotational movement is also possible in some embodiments (e.g. using at least one arcuate aperture 341a). In some embodiments, movement of the module 2 into engagement with the securing member 3 is against gravity (e.g. an upward movement).

In either case, of linear or rotational movement, the movement is a sliding movement and the description should be construed accordingly.

In some embodiments, the or each aperture 341a includes (i.e. is at least partially defined by) a locking surface 341b of the body 11. This locking surface 341b may be configured to engage at least part of a respective received pin 271 (e.g. a part of the head of that pin 271). The locking surface 341b may be inclined with respect to the inner and/or outer face of the body 11 such that the received part of the pin 271 (e.g. the head) is forced rearwardly (e.g. in a depth direction) as the pin 271 passes into the narrow part of the aperture 341a (see the figures). In some embodiments, the aperture 341a may include an internal shelf which provides the locking surface 341b. The shelf may extend around part of an internal circumference or perimeter of the aperture 341a and may, therefore, be U-shaped. In some embodiments, a single aperture 341a has a locking surface 341b. In some embodiments, some or all of a plurality of apertures 341a may include respective locking surfaces 341b. The use of the or each locking surface 341b may assist in retaining the module 2 in place with respect to the securing member 3 (in combination with the engagement of the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab, for example).

The locking surface 341b may be in the form of a taper lock, for example a 3° taper lock (in particular, the locking surface 341b may be at an angle of around 3° from a main plane of the main body 31) -see the figures.

The frame member 111 to which the securing member 3 and module 2 may be fitted could have a number of different profiles (i.e. cross-sectional shapes). As described the frame member 111 may be a pad of the frame 11 in relation to which the panel 12 moves or may, indeed, be part of a frame of the panel 12 (which may move with respect to another frame or other panel 12).

In any event, however, when the door or window 1 is in the closed condition, a channel may be defined between at least part of the panel 12 and the frame 11. This channel may accommodate, for example, parts of the lock or latch mechanism 13 and may provide sufficient space for this to operate freely.

The channel may be generally inaccessible from the exterior of the window or door 1 when in the closed condition. In some embodiments, the frame member 111 may be such that there is at least one edge lip extending along an outer and/or inner edge of the frame member 111 along its length and at least partially defining the channel.

In some embodiments, the securing member 3 and module 2 are entirely or substantially entirely contained within the channel. With respect to a frame member 111, a volume may be defined between the outer and inner edge of the frame member 111 along its length and the securing member 3 and module 2 may be entirely or substantially entirely contained within this volume.

The securing member 3 and module 2 may be sized and shaped such that, when fitted, they do not foul the operation of the door or window 1 -as it changes condition between the open and closed conditions and/or between the locked and unlocked conditions.

The body 31 (and/or the entire securing member 3) may have a width equal to, substantially equal to, or less than the width of the channel. The body 31 may have a width equal to, substantially equal to, or less than a depth of the frame member 111.

As will be understood from the description herein, at least part of the frame 10 member 111 may be received by at least part of the securing member 3. The securing member 3 and frame member 111 may, therefore, interlock.

The securing member 3 may be a packer, for example. As such, the securing member 3 may provide a spacing function to ensure that the module 3 is correctly located to sense the condition of the door or window 1.

When the door or window 1 is in the closed condition, the channel may not be accessible -i.e. the panel 12 may prevent access by blocking off any part of the channel that would be open if the door or window 1 were in the open condition. Therefore, a potential burglar may be prevented or hindered from accessing the module 2.

In some embodiments, a window or door fitter may fit the securing member 3 to the frame 11 during installation of the window or door 1. This may include selection of the correct securing member 3 from a plurality of securing members 3 for the frame member 111. The fitter may then position the securing member 3 in the correct location to ensure that the module 2 operates correctly. The fitter may secure the securing member 3 using the fixing arrangement 32. In some embodiments, one or more markers 300 (which may be grooves in the body 31 or printed on the body 31, for example) may be used by the fitter for alignment of the securing member 3 at the correct location with respect to the frame member 111 and/or the lock or latch mechanism 13.

The window or door 1 may then be used as normal.

The user may then, at some later time, decide to install the module 2. The user may be aware that the window or door 1 is configured to receive a module 2 by virtue of the presence of the securing member 3. The securing member 3 may carry information or indicators to provide the user with information as to the type of module 2 which may be fitted to the securing member 3. The indicators may include at least one arrow and/or line or other marking 300 indicating a boundary of the part of the securing member 3 covered by the module 2, when the module 2 is correctly fitted.

The user may fit the module 2 to the securing member 3 by positioning the module 2 such that the coupling arrangement 27 engages the coupling configuration 34. For example, such that the or each pin 271 is received by a respective receiving configuration 341 (such as an aperture 341a). In some embodiments, the resiliently biased clip 342 is then operated to secure the module 2 to the securing member 3. For example, the module 2 may be moved linearly (or rotationally) with respect to the securing member 3. In some embodiments, this movement is a vertical movement upwards, against gravity. In some emodiments, this movement in parallel to a longitudinal axis of the frame member 111. This movement may move the or each pin 271 within the or each receiving configuration 341 (e.g. aperture 341a). The drive surfaces 342aa, 272a may engage as described herein and continued movement of the module 2 may cause the latch surfaces 272b,342ab to engage each other. The operation of the resiliently biased clip 342 may, therefore, be automatic on movement of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3. The module 2 may be substantially prevented from being released from the securing member 3.

The module 2 may then be located correctly for operation (e.g. correctly 5 spaced from the frame member 111).

One or more indicators 300 may be provided on the securing member 3 to confirm the correct location of the module 2 with respect to the securing member 3 -such as indicators for alignment with an edge or other extremity of 10 the module 2.

The module 2 may be removed by use of the actuation portion 343a as described herein.

Accordingly, the module 2 may be fitted and/or replaced without the need for tools and by a relatively unskilled user.

In some embodiments, the fitter may install a dummy module 2 which may need to be removed before a module 2 is fitted by the user. The dummy module 2 may be the same as a module 2 described herein but may be nonfunctional and may not include the processor 25, controller 23, sensor 21, and computer readable medium 26.

As will be appreciated, an attachment system according to embodiments may include the securing member 3 and/or the module 2.

Embodiments may include the window or door 1 to which the securing member 3 has been fitted. Embodiments may include the window or door 1 to which the securing member 3 and module 2 have been fitted.

Embodiments may include the frame 11 to which the securing member 3 has been fitted. Embodiments may include the frame 11 to which the securing member 3 and module 2 have been fitted. Embodiments may include the frame member 111 to which the securing member 3 has been fitted.

Embodiments may include the frame member 111 to which the securing member 3 and module 2 have been fitted.

Embodiments may include a method of fitting the securing member 3 to the frame member 111 and/or frame 11 and/or door or window 1. Embodiments may include a method of fitting the module 2 to the securing member 3.

Embodiments may include a method of replacing the module 2 with a different module 2 on the securing member 3.

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.

Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and/or to encompass equivalents.

Aspects 1 An attachment system for a door or window, the attachment system being configured to sense a condition of a door or window, the attachment system including: a securing member configured to be mounted to a frame member of the door or window; and a module, configured to be coupled to a frame member by attachment to the securing member, the module including a sensor to sense the condition of the door or window, and the securing member including a resiliently biased clip configured to retain the module in attachment to the securing member selectively, wherein the securing member is configured space the module from at least part of the frame member such that the sensor is positioned to sense the condition of the door or window.

2. An attachment system according to aspect 1, wherein the securing member is a substantially planar member.

3. An attachment system according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the securing member includes fixing arrangement to secure the securing member to the frame member.

4. An attachment system according to aspect 3, wherein the fixing arrangement includes a fixing element and a fixing receiver, the fixing element being configured to be received by the fixing receiver and to engage the frame member.

5. An attachment system according to any preceding aspect, wherein the securing member includes a body defining one or more grooves, the or each groove being configured to receive at least part of the frame member.

6. An attachment system according to any preceding aspect, wherein the securing member includes a receiving configuration and the module includes one or more pins, the or each pin being configured to be received by the receiving configuration, and the resilient clip being configured to inhibit the removal of the or each pin from the receiving configuration selectively.

7. An attachment system according to aspect 6, wherein the receiving configuration includes an inclined locking surface configured to engage and guide part of at least one of the or each pin.

8. An attachment system according to any preceding aspect, wherein the resilient clip includes a drive surface and a latch surface, the module includes a latch element including a drive surface and a latch surface, the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element are configured to engage as the module is secured to the securing member such that the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element engage.

9. An attachment system according to any preceding aspect, wherein the resilient clip is part of a coupling configuration of the securing member which further includes an elongate member and an actuation portion, wherein manual operation of the actuation portion is configured to move at least part of the elongate member to release the resilient clip.

10. An attachment system according to any preceding aspect, wherein the sensor is a reed switch.

11. An attachment system according to any of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the sensor is a mechanical switch.

12. A door or window including an attachment system according to any preceding aspect 13. A door or window according to aspect 12, wherein the securing arrangement is configured to fit between a frame of the door or window and a moveable panel of the door or window, such that the moveable panel is moveable between open and closed conditions without the securing member fouling this operation of the door or window.

14. A door or window according to aspect 13, wherein the securing member is inaccessible when the door or window is in the closed condition.

15. A door or window according to any of aspects 12 to 14, wherein the moveable panel is configured to move with respect to the frame member when the door or window is operated between the open and closed conditions.

16. A door or window according to any of aspects 12 to 14, wherein the moveable panel is configured to move with the frame member when the door or window is operated between the open and closed conditions.

17. A door or window including a frame member and a securing member, 25 wherein the securing member is suitable for use in an attachment system according to any of aspects 1 to 11.

18. A method of manufacturing a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window according to aspect 17.

19. A method of fitting a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window according to aspect 17.

20. A method of fitting a module to a door or window, including: identifying a door or window according to aspect 17; proving a module; and fitting the module to the securing member.

21. A method according to aspect 20, further including operating the door or window to an open condition before fitting the module to the securing member.

Claims

Claims 1. A door or window including an attachment system, the attachment system being configured to sense a condition of the door or window, the attachment system including: a securing member configured to be mounted to a frame member of the door or window; and a module, configured to be coupled to the frame member by attachment to the securing member, the module including an induction coil sensor to sense the condition of the door or window, wherein the securing member is configured to space the module from at least part of the frame member such that the sensor is positioned to sense the condition of the door or window, wherein the securing member is configured to fit between a frame of the 15 door or window and a moveable panel of the door or window, such that the moveable panel is moveable between open and closed conditions without the securing member fouling this operation of the door or window.
2. A door or window according to claim 1, wherein the module is attachable to the securing member by sliding the module linearly with respect to the securing member.
3. A door or window according to any preceding claim, wherein the module includes a latch element configured to engage a part of the securing member to retain the module with respect to the securing member.
4. A door or window according to claim 3, wherein the latch element includes a protrusion from a surface of the module.
5. A door or window according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the latch element is configured to engage the part of the securing member to inhibit linear movement of the module with respect to the securing member.
6. A door or window according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing member includes a resiliently biased clip configured to retain the module in attachment to the securing member.
7. A door or window according to claim 6 when dependent on any of claims 3-5, wherein the resiliently biased clip is configured to engage the latch element.
8. A door or window according to any preceding claim, wherein one of the module or securing member includes one or more pins and the other of the module or securing member includes a receiving configuration for receiving the one or more pins such that the module is attachable to the securing member by engagement of the or each pin with the receiving configuration.
9. A door or window according to claim 8, wherein the receiving configuration includes a corresponding number of apertures to the number of pins, with each aperture configured to receive a pin.
10. A door or window according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the module includes the one or more pins and the securing member includes the receiving 25 configuration.
11. A method of manufacturing or fitting a door or window, wherein the door or window is a door or window according to any preceding claim, the method including: providing a frame member; and securing the securing member of the attachment system to the frame member.
12. A method of fitting a module to a door or window, including: identifying a door or window according to any of claims 1-10; and fitting the module to the securing member.
13. A method according to claim 12, further including operating the door or window to an open condition before fitting the module to the securing member 10 The