WO2006133557A1

WO2006133557A1 - Frameless modular security bar assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2006133557A1
Application number: PCT/CA2006/000975
Authority: WO
Inventors: Moshe Cohen-Ravid; Neil Davis
Original assignee: Ravco Innovations Inc.
Priority date: 2005-06-17
Filing date: 2006-06-16
Publication date: 2006-12-21

Abstract

In various aspects, the invention provides frameless modular security bar assemblies adapted to be mounted in a pre-existing frame, such as a frame that defines a window or door opening. The assemblies may be provided with bars that are slidably, or slidably and pivotally, received by channels attached to opposing sides of the opening. The slidable connection of the bars and the channels may for example be adapted to accommodate shifts in the size or configuration of the framed opening, as for example may occur as a building settles. The slidable, or slidable and pivotal, attachment of the bars and the channels may also facilitate installation of security bar assemblies using methods of the invention. The bars and channels may be sized so that the bar ends are slidably, or slidably and pivotally, retained in the channels when the assembly is installed in a framed opening, the frame in effect serving to slidably, or slidably and pivotally, retain the bars in opposing channels, while the bars are permitted some freedom of lengthways, or lengthways and pivotal movement while being retained. Noise reduction sleeves may be used to insulate the slidable, or slidable and pivotal, connection between the bars and the channels, so as to minimize sound generated by movement of the bars relative to the channels, for example to prevent rattling of the bars in the channels. Adjustable shutter vanes may also be provided, adapted either for installation at the same time as the security bar assemblies of the invention, or by later retrofitting of existing installations.

Description

FRAMELESS MODULAR SECURITY BAR ASSEMBLY FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to security bar assemblies, typically for installation in a window frame in a building.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Security bars are often used over windows and doors, for example to deter unauthorized entry into a building. There are various types of security bars and shutters available. In many security bar installations, the component parts of the assembly are rigidly attached to one another, for example by welding, and rigidly attached to the building frame. In such an arrangement, any movement of the building frame following installation of the security bars, for example due to settling of a structure, or minor earthquake, may damage the security bar assembly, weakening the integrity of the bar assembly, or loosening the attachment of the bar assembly to the building frame. In addition, rigid security bar assemblies may require careful and time-consuming attention to precise dimensioning of the component parts in order to facilitate secure installation. There remains a need for alternative security bar assemblies, adapted for example to reduce the labour involved in assembly and installation, being more easily adaptable to fit within openings of different sizes, or adaptable to accommodate small changes in the dimensions of a building structure following installation while retaining the integrity of the security bar installation.

SUMMARY [0003] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided a security bar assembly i ncluding opposed channels a nd one or more bars adapted to be slidably, or slidably and pivotally, received and retained by the channels, in which the frame or sides of an opening, such as a window or door, acts as a frame holding the security bar assembly together. The bars may be slidably, pivotally, or slidably and pivotally, received in apertures in channel members, with the bar lengths dimensioned so that the bar ends are secured within opposing channel members when the assembly is installed in an opening, with the dimensions of the opening serving to constrain the separation of opposing channel members to prevent dislocation of the bars from the channels, retaining the bar ends in the channels. The apertures and bars may be sized to allow pivotal movement of the bar end within the aperture, in addition to slidable movement. In such embodiments, the installation of the assembly in an opening may be facilitated by the slidable, or slidable and pivotal but secure interconnection of the bars and the channel members, slidably, or slidably and pivotally retaining the bar ends in the channels, providing some flexibility in dimensioning the assembly, while obviating the need for welding or other rigid forms of connection between the bars and the channel members. An aspect of the invention therefore involves the adaptation of the connection between the bars and the channels to provide some freedom of movement for the bars within the channels, such as slidable, pivotal, or both slidable and pivotal movement, while also providing for secure interconnection of bars and channels.

[0004] Noise reduction sleeves may be fitted between the bars and channels, as means for minimizing sound generated by movement of the bars relative to the channels. The noise reduction sleeve may be positioned as an interface between the bar and the channel members, for example being fitted over the bar ends or within the aperture, and may be adapted to minimize the extent to which the bars rattle in their secure, slidable, or slidable and pivotal engagement with the channels. The noise reduction sleeves may for example be made from a material that is sufficiently flexible to permit slidable, pivotal, or slidable and pivotal movement of the bar ends in the apertures.

[0005] The apertures in the channels, and/or the corresponding bar ends, may be sized to facilitate pivotal movement of bars. For example, an aperture having the frustoconical shape of a truncated cone may be sized to have an outer n arrow opening of the approximate diameter of the bar to be retained, and a larger internal dimension to permit the bar end a degree of rotational freedom while retained. In such embodiments, the noise reduction sleeve may form an annular gasket between the restricted opening of the aperture and the bar, adapted to facilitate slidable and pivotal movement of the bar in the channel. In a hollow channel, the open interior of the channel may serve the same purpose as an appropriately dimensioned aperture in a solid channel, permitting slidable, pivotal, or slidable and pivotal movement of a retained bar end. Alternatively, the bar ends and/or the apertures in the channels may be made of a flexible material, or the bars may be provided with an extension comprising flexible material, to facilitate movement of bars, such as pivotal movement.

[0006] The channels may be installed within an opening, such as a window or a door. The channels may for example be attached to t he opposing sides of the opening w ith b olts o r o ther s ecure fasteners. N oise r eduction sleeves m ay for example be made of a polymer, such as rubber or plastic or Teflon ®. The bars may for example be tubular, with a variety of cross sectional configurations, such as cylindrical or square metal tubing. For example, the bars may be fashioned so that they are not rotationally symmetrical in transverse cross section, which may facilitate construction of embodiments in which the bars are not rotatable within the bar assembly. The bars, when received by the channel members, may be arranged to substantially block entry of a person through the opening defined by the frame. In some embodiments, the ratio of the bar width to the spacing between the bars may for example be any value from approximately 1 :4 to approximately 1 :6. In some embodiments, a ratio of approximately 1 :5 may be preferred, for example with tubular bars having a diameter of approximately 7/8 inch spaced apart by 5 inches from bar centre to bar centre.

[0007] In some embodiments, pre-formed channel members and bars may be provided, for example in kit form. Channel members may for example be dimensioned to fit a selected opening, and adapted to receive selected bars, for example by providing pre-cut apertures in the channel members sized to receive selected bars. The slidable, or slidable and pivotal, connection of the bars to the channels may better facilitate installation of security bar assemblies, for example by increasing the tolerance of the assembly to imperfections in the dimensioning of the bars, or imperfections in the sizing of the pre-existing frame. For example, it will be appreciated that assemblies of the invention may be adapted for installation in frames t hat a re n ot s quare, o r i n frames t hat c hange s hape o ver tinne as for example may occur to window and door frames as a building structure or building floor settles.

[0008] In various embodiments, the invention provides means for slidably, pivotally, or slidably and pivotally, inserting opposing bar ends into opposing apertures in opposing channel members, so that the bars are maintained in a fixed spaced apart relationship, such as a parallel relationship, while being permitted a degree of freedom of movement, for example permitting lengthwise, pivotal, or lengthwise and pivotal movement. Corresponding means or mechanisms may also be provided for securing opposing channel members to opposing frame members, so that the opposing bar ends of the bars extend into the opposing apertures in the channel members to retain the bars in spaced apart relationship spanning the framed opening, the bars being slidably, or slidably and pivotally, retained in the apertures in the channel members.

[0009] In an alternative aspect of the invention, a method of installing a security bar assembly is provided. The method may include dimensioning channel members to abut opposing sides of an opening. Providing the channel members with means for fastening the channel members to the sides of the opening, and providing apertures in the channel members to slidably, or slidably and pivotally, accept security bars that span the opening, so that the ends of the bars are secured in the opposing channel members when the assembly is installed in the opening, the dimensions of the opening serving to constrain the separation of the opposing channel members to prevent dislocation of the bars from the channels in the frame.

[001O] In an alternative embodiment, the security bar assembly of the i nvention may further comprise a hinge connecting the assembly to the frame, so that the assembly is pivotable about the hinge to pivot the assembly from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position, the assembly may be adapted to prevent passage through the framed opening, and in the open position the assemble may be adapted to allow passage through the opening. The assembly may further comprising a hydraulic arm, operable to guide the assembly from the closed position to the open position. The assembly may further comprise a releasing actuator that is operable to release the assembly from the closed position to the open position, and the releasing actuator may be situated remotely from the framed opening (to prevent the actuator from being accessed through the opening when the assembly is in the closed position).

[0011] In alternative embodiments, the security bar assembly may be provided with shutter vanes, which may be rotatably attached to the bars to be movable between open and closed positions to variably cover portions of the framed opening between the spaced apart bars.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In drawings which illustrate alternative embodiments of the invention:

Figure 1 is an isometric view of a security bar assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is an elevation view of the security bar assembly shown in Figure 1 , showing the security bar assembly in a compressed position, in which the opposing channel members have been moved towards one another, sliding on the bars, to facilitate the positioning of the assembly into an opening;

Figure 3 is an elevation view of the security bar assembly in Figure 1 showing the security bar assembly in an expanded position, in which the opposing channel member have been moved away from one another, so that the opposing channels abut the opposing sides of the opening, to facilitate the attachment of the assembly to the frame of the opening;

Figure 4 is an elevation view of a security bar assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the security bar assembly shown in Figure 4, showing the security bar assembly in an open position;

Figure 6 is a partial vertical section of the security bar assembly shown in Figure 4, showing top and bottom portions of channel members; Figure 7 is a cross sectional view of the security bar assembly shown in Figure

4, showing intermediate bar supports. Figure 8 is a side elevation view of a security bar assembly in cross section, showing an embodiment having shutter vanes attached to the bars. Figure 9 is a front elevation view of the security bar assembly of Figure 8, partially broken away, showing the shutter vanes in a closed position, with a brush in place to seal the space between the vertical channel and the edge of the vanes.

Figure 10 is a side e levation view of the security b ar assembly of F igure 8 i n cross section, showing the shutter vanes in an open position.

Figure 11 is a side elevation view of a security bar assembly in cross section, illustrating an alternative embodiment of the shutter vanes of the invention, attached by clips to the bars.

Figure 12 is a side elevation view of a security bar assembly in cross section, showing an alternative embodiment of the shutter vanes of the invention, with the bars inserted in the space within hollow shutter vanes, the space being formed by attached opposing shutter vane leaves.

Figure 13 is an isometric view of a security bar assembly, showing proportional spacing and sizing of bars.

Figure 14 is a top and bottom view of the security bar assembly of Figure 13, the two views being identical.

Figure 15 is a front and back elevational view of the security bar assembly of

Figure 13, the two views being identical.

Figure 16 is a left and right side elevational view of the security bar assembly of

Figure 13, the two views being identical.

Figure 17 is an isometric view of a bar end being slidably and pivotally retained in a frustoconical aperture in a channel, with arrows showing the rotational and slidable freedom of movement of the bar. Figure 18 is an isometric view of an alternative bar assembly, also illustrated in

Figures 19, 20 and 21 , having caps on opposing channels. Figure 19 is an isometric view, partially broken away, looking down on one of the channels of the assembly, showing a detailed view of a hinge assembly.

Figure 20 is an isometric partially broken away view, looking down on a channel that opposes the channel of Figure 19, showing a detailed view of a latch assembly. Figure 21 is an exploded view, partially broken away, showing components that form a bar end assembly in the embodiment of Figures 18 through 20. Figure 22 is an exploded view, partially broken away, showing components that form a bar end assembly in the embodiment of Figures 18 through 20, illustrating a T-bracket fixed in the bar end to anchor the bar end behind the vinyl insert. Figure 23 is an isometric view of an alternative bar assembly, also illustrated in

Figure 24, adapted for installation within an opening. Figure 23A is a front elevational view of the assembly of Figure 23. Figure 23B is a rear elevational view of the assembly of Figure 23. Figure 23C is a left side elevational view of the assembly of Figure 23. Figure 23D is a right side elevational view of the assembly of Figure 26. Figure 23E is a top plan view of the assembly of Figure 23. Figure 23F is a bottom plan view of the assembly of Figure 23.

Figure 24 is a top plan view partially broken away, providing a more detailed view of the left hand channel assembly of the embodiment of Figure

23.

Figure 25 is an isometric view of an alternative bar assembly, also illustrated in Figure 26, a dapted for s urface i nstallation on t he e xterior o r interior surface adjacent to an opening.

Figure 25A is a front elevational view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 25B is a rear elevational view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 25C is a left side elevational view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 25D is a right side elevational view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 25E is a top plan view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 25F is a bottom plan view of the assembly of Figure 25. Figure 26 is a top plan view partially broken away, providing a more detailed view of the left hand channel assembly of the embodiment of Figure 25.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Referring to Figure 1 , a security bar assembly 10 according to one aspect of the invention may be installed in window opening 12 to discourage entry through window 11. Window 11 has an opening 12 defined by structural portions 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D. Security bar assembly 10 includes a first channel member 14, a second channel member 15, and a plurality of bars 16 having first ends 17A and second ends 17B. First and second channel assemblies 14 and 15 are shown with fitted end caps 27, 28 to prevent water or other debris from entering channel assemblies 14 and 15.

[0014] Referring to Figures 1 , 2 and 3, first channel member 14 and second channel member 15 may each have a mounting face 20 and a bar receiving face 18. The bar receiving face 18 may have a plurality of first spaced apertures 30 operable to receive bars 16. Noise reduction sleeves 32 are dimensioned to frictionally hold bars 16 and reduce noise resulting from movement of bars 16 within first spaced apertures 30. Mounting face 20 of first and second channel members 14 and 15 may each have a plurality of second spaced apertures 34 operable to receive mounting bolts 36 for fastening to opening 1 2, for example defined by a window, door or wall opening. In alternative embodiments where the passage is a window 11 , security bar assembly 10 may be mounted within the window frame 11. Alternative mounting arrangements may be made using any of the surfaces of channels 14, such as an attachment of rear face 21 to a frame.

[0015] Referring to Figure 6, a cross sectional view of channel member 14 is shown. Apertures 30 on channel member 14 may b e d imensioned to be fitted with noise reduction sleeves 32. Noise reduction sleeves 32 may comprise of an outer face 72A a nd a l ocking face 74. O nee a n oise reduction sleeve is f itted within aperture 30 of channel member 14, locking face 74 of noise reduction sleeves 32 forms an attachment with channel member 14. In alternative embodiments, noise reduction sleeves 32 may for example be made of rubber or Teflon ®.

[0016] Referring again to Figure 2, directional arrows 46 indicate how an embodiment of security bar assembly 10 may be compressed to facilitate positioning of assembly 10 in opening 12. Opposing bar ends 17A, 17B are inserted through spaced apart apertures 30 of bar receiving face 18 of channel members 14. When compressed, as shown, opposing channel members 14 have been moved towards one another, sliding on bars 16, to facilitate the positioning of the assembly into opening 12.

[0017] Referring to Figure 3, directional arrows 48 indicate how assembly 10 may be expanded to facilitate attachment of assembly 10 to frame portions 13B, 13D, which define the sides of opening 12. Opposing channel members 14, 15 are shown having been moved away from one another, so that mounting face 20 of channel members 14, 15 may be secured to opposing frame sides 13B, 13D of opening 12. Channel members 14, 15 may for example be secured to frame sides 13B, 13D by m ounting bolts 36 fastened t hrough second s paced apertures 34, with optional spacers 38 protecting the surface of the frame. The mounting bolts 36 may for example be "non-removable" in the sense that they may be adapted to require a special tool for removal.

[0018] Referring to Figure 4, a security bar assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown generally at 50. Security bar assembly 50 comprises a plurality of first spaced-apart parallel bars 56 and a plurality of second spaced apart optional parallel bars 90, to form grillwork 53. Second optional parallel bars 90 extend in a direction essentially perpendicular to first parallel bars 50. The spacing between first parallel bars 50 and second parallel bars 90 may be adapted to prevent human passage through window opening 52, between, over or under the bars. The ends of each of the first set of bars 56 may be inserted into first channel member 14 and second channel member 15. The first set of bars 56 may be frictionally held in first and second channel members

14, 15 by noise reduction sleeves 32. The first and second channel assemblies are shown equipped with fitted end caps 27, 28 to prevent water or other debris from entering channels 14, 15.

[0019] Referring again to Figure 4, the first set of parallel bars 56 comprises an upper bar 56A. Referring to Figure 6, the outer ends 57A of upper bar 56A may be attached to channel member 66 by fastener 78. Fastener 78 may be adapted to be "non-removable", for example by providing a threaded portion 75 and a case hardened head portion 78A having a one-way drive slot 78B (which will not allow the screwdriver to grip on the head slot when rotated in the removal direction). For installation, a screwdriver may for example be used to screw fastener 78 into outer ends 57A of upper bar 56A through outer face 60 of first and second channels 14 and 15. Threaded portion 75 of fastener 78 may be locked into place by crimping, as shown at 76.

[0020] Referring to Figure 4 and 7, the second set of spaced apart parallel bars 90 may be securely attached to structural portion 13A of opening 52 by locking means 92. Locking means 92 may for example comprise latch 96 that clamps onto lock bar 97, or onto top bar 56A. Lock bar 97 may form a connection between the extended portions 91 of the second set of spaced apart parallel bars 90.

[0021] Referring to Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7, first and said second channels 14, 15 are shown pivotally attached to structural portions 13B and 13D of opening 12 by hinge assembly 80. Hinge assembly 80 may include pivot bolt 83 having a body 85 t hat functions as t he axis for rotation of channel m ember 60, with threaded portion 84 of pivot bolt 83 secured in support flange 81 through a pivot aperture 85 in channel member 60 having pivot bushing 87 therein. In alternative embodiments, support flange 81 may be formed of an L-shaped member that extends adjacent to channel member 60 along a substantial portion of the length of channel member 60, so that channel member 60 pivots up against the back arm of the L-shaped member when the assembly is in place over opening 12. [0022] Figure 5 shows hydraulic arm 100 working with hinge assembly 80 to pivot security bar assembly 50 from a first position 65A, (shown in broken outline) to a second position 65B. In first position 65A, security bar assembly 50 prevents access through opening 12. In second position 65B, security bar assembly 50 works as a ladder to aide in access to opening 12. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, remote releasing actuator 94 is operable to release security bar assembly 50 from first position 65A, to allow security bar assembly 50 to move into second position 65B. This may for example be useful in emergency situations, such as a fire. As shown in Figure 5, a drop limiter 100 such as a hydraulic arm may be useful to slow the movement of bar assembly apparatus 50 from first position 65A to second position 65B. L imiter 1 00 m ay also be a dapted to aide an operator in returning the bar assembly 50 to first position 65A.

[0023] Figures 8, 9 and 10 illustrate embodiments of the security bar assembly 10 having shutter vanes 100 attached to bars 16. In Figures 8 and 9, shutter vanes

100 are shown in a closed position. Figure 10 shows shutter vanes 100 in an open position. Shutter vanes 100 are shown rotatably attached to bars 16 by hinge clips

104. In alternative embodiments, clips 104 may rotate about bars 16, or bars 16 may rotate with clips 104 fixed in place. To attach vanes 100 to clips 104, a clasp enlargement 101 on one side of vane 1 00 may b e adapted to s nap onto l iving hinge protrusions 105 on clips 104. Vanes 100 are shown as being rotatable on the bars between open (Figures 8 and 9) and closed (Figure 10) positions to variably cover portions of framed opening 12 between spaced apart bars 16. Also shown are vane extensions 102 that may be attached to vanes 100 to provide a vane assembly that in effect enlarges the coverage of vanes, for example to provide for overlapping coverage by vane assemblies 100, 102 of the space between bars 16.

[0024] Figure 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment, wherein bars 16 are attached to vanes 114 with clips 116. Alternative clips 104 and 116 are adapted so that they may be attached to bars 16 after the security bar assembly 10 is installed in a framed opening 12. [0025] Figure 12 illustrates an alternative security bar assembly, wherein bars 16 are inserted in space 123 within hollow shutter vanes 122, space 123 being formed by attached or unitary opposing shutter vane leaves 120, 121. In embodiments in which shutter vane leaves 120, 121 are unitary, bars 16 may be inserted into the hollow vanes 122 before the ends of bars 16 are secured within the apertures in channels 18. Vanes may alternatively be adapted so that vane leaves 120, 121 snap together around bars 16.

[0026] As shown in Figure 9, to help seal framed opening 12, brush 103 may be located in place to cover the space between vertical channels 18 and the lateral edge of vanes 100.

[0027] Vanes 100 may for example be adapted to be movable in unison. For example, connecting arm 110 may be attached directly to vanes 114 or 122 (Figures 11 and 12), or indirectly attached via linkage 106 to clips 104 (Figures 8, 9 and 10). Alternative connectors, such as wires, may be used to link vanes 100 for movement in unison, as for example is characteristic of various Venetian blind arrangements. The connectors, such as arm 110, may be lockable so as to hold vanes 100 in a selected position. Figures 8 and 10 illustrate, for example, the use of locking clasp 112 positioned on wall 113 adjacent to framed opening 12 to engage connecting arm 110.

[0028] In an alternative embodiments, various versions of which are shown in Figures 18 through 26, the invention provides, a bar assemblies 200, 300 or 400 for an opening 11 comprising channel covers 210 on opposing channels 202, 204. Figures 18 through 22 illustrate an embodiment in which the bar assembly is hinged, so that it is openable. Figures 23 and 24 illustrate an assembly 300 that is adapted for mounting on opposing surfaces that are perpendicular to the plane of the bars 16, such as the opposing interior surfaces of an opening 11. Figures 25 and 26 illustrate an assembly 400 that is adapted for mounting on a surface that is in the plane of the bars 16, such as the interior or exterior surface of a wall that defines the opening 11. [0029] In these embodiments, opposing channel members (202 and 204, or 302 and 304, or 402 and 404), are arranged in spaced apart relationship, adapted to be positioned on opposing sides of a framed opening 11. The channel members (202 and 204, or 302 and 304, or 402 and 404) each comprising an elongate rigid channel member 203, 205, 303 or 403.

[0030] Figures 20 and 21 illustrate elongate channel member 205, and are illustrative of various aspect of alternative channel members 203, 303 and 403. In particular, channel member 205 is illustrated in detail to show opposing side walls 206, 208 that define an elongate channel 212 having a channel opening 213 facing inwardly towards the framed opening. One or more resilient channel covers 210 engage the side walls 206, 208 to occlude portions of the channel opening 213, and define apertures 214 in channel opening 213, so that apertures 214 face inwardly towards the framed opening. The resilient channel covers 210 being locked in the elongate channel 212. One or more bars 16 are adapted to span the framed opening 11 to be slidably received by the apertures 214 in the channel openings 213, so that opposing bar ends of the bars 16 extend into opposing apertures 214 in the channel openings 213 to retain bars 16 in spaced apart relationship spanning framed opening 11. Bars 16 may be slidably retained in apertures 214 in channel openings 213.

[0031] Bar assemblies 200, 300 and 400 of Figures 18 through 26, may further include one or more channel inserts 216 housed in the elongate channels defined by channel members 203, 205, 303 or 403. In such embodiments, the method of installing the bar assemblies of the invention would typically involve installation of channel i nserts 2 16 p rior to i nstallation of channel covers 210. Channel covers 210 may be adapted, as described in more detail below, so that the installation of channel covers 210 on channel inserts 216 forms an interlocking channel assembly that i s difficult to take apart, effectively p reventing a ccess to channel openings such as channel opening 213. For example, fasteners may be provided, as shown in Figures 24 and 26, securing the channel assembly to an adjacent surface, with the channel fasteners, such as screws 304 or 404, passing through inserts 216 and channel members 303 or 403. The channel fasteners are emplaced before channel covers 210 are emplaced. In this way, when channel covers 210 are in place, securing the channel assembly, they occlude access to the channel fasteners 304, 404, to prevent anyone from easily removing the bar assembly from the opening 11.

[0032] Channel covers 210 may be press fit in inserts 216 to lock channel covers 210 and inserts 216 in elongate channels 212. As is for example shown in Figure 21 , inserts 216 may be shaped to define portions of apertures 214 in channel openings 212, so that inserts 216 bear on the bar ends to maintain the bars 16 in spaced apart relationship in the elongate channels 203, 105. Channel covers 210 may be p ress fit into inserts 216 so that an insert locking extension 220 locks channel covers 210 into engagement with inserts 216. Inserts 216 may comprise insert shoulders 218 that define a channel cover opening 224 that is sized to receive insert locking extension 220. Insert locking extension 220 may comprise flexible arms 222 that are compressible to a llow the arms 222 and the locking extension 220 to pass through the channel cover opening 224, the arms 222 being resiliently expandable so that the arms 222 extend when the channel covers 210 are press fit into the inserts 216 so that arms 222 bear on the insert shoulders 218 to lock channel covers 210 onto inserts 216. When channel covers 210 are locked onto inserts 216, cover teeth 223 may be adapted to bind on insert teeth 225, as shown in Figure 19, so that interlocking cover and insert teeth 203, 205 act to prevent the widening of channel cover opening 224, formed by inserts 216. With bars 16 supported laterally by inserts 216, within channel cover opening 224, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, in apertures 214, i nterlocking cover a nd i nsert teeth 203, 205 help to retain the bars against forcible displacement, particularly in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the opening 11.

[0033] Opposing side walls 206, 208 of channel members 203, 205 may have channel lips 227 that engage inserts 216, to retain inserts 216 in elongate channels 203, 205. Insert l ocking extension 220 o n c hannel cover 2 10 may be sized to mate with channel cover opening 224 on inserts 216 to lock inserts 216 into engagement with the channel lips 227, locking channel covers 210 and inserts 216 into elongate channels 203, 205. [0034] In contrast to bar assemblies 300 and 400, bar assembly 200 further comprises a hinge mechanism, shown in detail in Figure 19, as part of the connection between the assembly 200 and the frame 13, so that assembly 200 is pivotable about the hinge to pivot assembly 200 from a closed position to an open position. The assembly in the closed position prevents passage through the framed opening 11 and the assembly in the open position allows passage through the opening 11. The hinge mechanism may include a mounting bracket 226 attached to the frame or sides of opening 11 , for hingedly receiving one of t he channels 203. The hinge mechanism may comprise an extension 228 on channel 203 that is mated in slidable interconnection with a recess 230 in mounting bracket 226.

[0035] As shown in Figure 20, a hinged bar assembly 200 may further include a releasing actuator that is operable to release the assembly from the closed position to the open position. In such an arrangement, the channel 205 which is not hinged, the swinging channel 205, may for example be sized to seat in a jam bracket 232, such as jam bracket 232 that houses a latch 234. Jam bracket 232 may be mounted to frame 13, so that swinging channel 205 seats in jam bracket 232 when bar assembly 200 swings shut, and latch 234 catches swinging channel 205 in the closed position, as shown in Figure 20. Latch 234 may be pivotally seated in jam bracket 232, with a latch release cable 236 attached to latch 234 so that the latch 234 may be released by an actuator (not shown). The releasing actuator may for example be remote from the framed opening 11.

[0036] Channels 203, 205 may for example be aluminum extrusions, having a uniform cross sectional profile. Similarly, channel covers 210 may be polymeric moldings or polymeric extrusions, having a uniform cross sectional profile. Inserts 216 may also be polymeric moldings o r polymeric extrusions, h aving a u niform cross sectional profile, such as polyvinyl extrusions.

[0037] As shown in Figure 22 one or more of the bars may have fixed or secured opposing bar ends, with bar ends that are fixed or secured in the opposing channels 203, 205, while also being adapted for pivotal, slidable o r p ivotal a nd slidable movement. Fixed or secured bar ends thereby act to fix or secure opposing channels 203, 205 of assembly 200 i n s paced apart relationship. For example, a T-shaped bar end insert 240 may be fixed to the ends of bars 16, so that a flange 238 on the insert 240 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of bar 1 (3, and flange 238 is positionable within the inserts 216. A fastener may be provided to fix flange 238 to the end of a bar 16, for example an expansion tube 239 attached to flange 238 may be adapted to fit within hollow bar end 16, with an expansion mechanism comprised of an expansion bolt 241 threaded into a conical expansion nut 242, so that tightening of bolt 241 draws expansion nut 242 into the end of tube 239 to expand the distal end of tube 239 within the end of bar 16, to fix bar end insert 240 onto the end of bar 16. Tube 239 may for example be made of a resilient, flexible material, to permit pivotal movement of bar 16 while engaged on tube 239. Similarly, tube 239 may be resiliently stretchable, to facilitate 'slidable¹ movement of bar 16 with respect to channels 203, 205, and nut 242 may be secured so as to p ermit such slidable movement. The ends of bars 16 are thereby fixed in the opposing channels 203, 205. In an alternative embodiment, the portion of the aperture defined by the inserted is larger than the portion of the aperture defined by the channel covers, and the fixed bar ends are enlarged, being sized to be a ccommodated by the portion of the a perture defined by t he inserts and being larger than the portion of the aperture defined by the channel covers, so that when the channel covers are press fit on the inserts, the channel covers retain the fixed bar ends in the apertures. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the mechanism used to fix the bar ends in the channels may be adapted to permit a limited range of movement of the bar end in the channel, such as pivotal, slidable or pivotal and slidable movement. In this way, the bar assembly 200 is h eld together when in the o pened position by fixed bar ends, while the whole assembly is permitted a limited range of movement and flexibility.

[0038] Although various embodiments of the invention are disclosed herein, many adaptations and modifications may be made within the scope of the invention in accordance with the common general knowledge of those skilled in this art. Such modifications include the substitution of known equivalents for any aspect of the invention in order to achieve the same result in substantially the same way. For example, in some embodiments bars may be arranged horizontally and channels vertically, and in such embodiments it will be appreciated that the bars may not be exactly horizontal and the channels may not be exactly vertical, and the bars may not be precisely perpendicular to the channels. Similarly, while the interconnection of the bar ends and the channels is characterized as involving a bar end being received in an aperture in a channel, it will be appreciated that alternative interconnecting parts may be interposed between the bar and the channel to the same effect. For example, a sleeve may extend from an aperture, with the sleeve for example being unitary with the channel or being comprised of a separate part, so that the sleeve extends from the channel to accept a bar end.

[0039] Numeric ranges are inclusive of the numbers defining the range. The word "comprising" is used herein as an open-ended term, substantially equivalent to the phrase "including, but not limited to", and the word "comprises" has a corresponding meaning. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a thing" includes more than one such thing. Citation of references herein is not an admission that such references a re prior art to the present invention. Any priority document(s) and all publications, including but not limited to patents and patent applications, cited in this specification are incorporated herein by reference as if each individual publication were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein and as though fully set forth herein. The invention includes all embodiments and variations substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the examples and drawings.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method of forming a bar assembly in an opening having sides, the opening having a span defined by opposing sides, the method comprising: a) providing a plurality of elongate bars having opposing bar ends; b) providing opposing channel members having opposing apertures; c) slidably inserting the opposing bar ends of the bars into the opposing apertures in the opposing channel members, so that the bars are maintained in a fixed spaced apart relationship, and the opposing channel members are maintained in a spaced apart relationship, d) securing the opposing channel members to the opposing sides, so that the opposing bar ends of the bars extend into the opposing apertures in the channel members to retain the bars in spaced apart relationship spanning the framed opening, the bars being slidably retained in the apertures in the channel members.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the opposing channel members are movable on the bar ends from a compressed position to an expanded position, so that in the compressed position the opposing channel members are spaced apart by a first assembly span distance, and in the expanded position the opposing channel members are spaced apart by a second assembly span distance, and the first assembly span distance is less than the second assembly span distance; and wherein the step (c) of securing the opposing channel members to the opposing frame members further comprises: a) inserting the security bar assembly in the compressed position into the framed opening, wherein the frame span is greater than the first assembly span distance; and, b) expanding the security bar assembly in the framed opening from the compressed position to the expanded position, so that the opposing channel members are moved to the second assembly span distance to abut the opposing frame members.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the bars are slidably, pivotally or slidably and pivotally retained in the apertures in the channel members when the opposing channel members are secured to the opposing frame members.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 through 3, wherein the channel members are tubular, and the apertures in the channel members permit access to a lumen of each tubular frame member.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the opposing channel members are attached to the opposing frame members with fasteners and the fasteners are housed within the lumen of the frame members.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 through 5, wherein the bar assembly f urther comprises a noise reduction sleeve positioned b etween a b ar end and the aperture that receives the bar end, so that the noise reduction sleeve permits movement of the bar end in the aperture.

7. The m ethod according to claim 6, wherein the noise reduction sleeve is comprised of a polymer.

8. The m ethod according to claim 6, wherein the noise reduction sleeve is comprised of plastic.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein said noise reduction sleeve is comprised of Teflon ®.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 through 9, wherein the bars are not rotationally symmetrical in transverse cross section.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 through 10, wherein the ratio of the width of the bars to the spacing between the bars, from bar centre to bar centre, is approximately 1 :5.

12. The method of any one of claims 1 through 11 , further comprising rotatably attaching shutter vanes to the bars.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein shutter vanes are hollow, and the bars are inserted within the hollow shutter vanes.

14. A bar assembly for an opening comprising: a) opposing channel members fixed in spaced apart relationship on opposing sides of a framed opening, the channel members having opposing apertures therein facing inwardly towards the framed opening; b) one or more bars adapted to span the framed opening to be slidably received by the opposing apertures in the channel members, so that opposing bar ends of the bars extend into opposing apertures in the channel members to retain the bars in spaced apart relationship spanning the framed opening, the bars being slidably retained in the apertures in the channel members.

15 The bar assembly of claim 14, wherein the bars are slidably, pivotally or slidably and pivotally retained in the channel members.

16. The bar a ssembly of claim 14 or 1 5, wherein a sleeve or a pin extends outwardly from an aperture to accept a bar end.

17. The bar assembly of claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the channel members are tubular, and the apertures in the channel members permit access to a lumen of each tubular frame member.

18. The bar assembly according to claim 17, wherein the channel members are attached to the opposing frame members with fasteners, and t he fasteners a re housed within the lumen of the frame members.

19. The bar assembly according to any one of claims 14 through 18, further comprising a noise reduction sleeve positioned between a bar end and the aperture that receives the bar end, so that the noise reduction sleeve is made to permit movement of the bar end in the aperture.

20. The bar assembly according to claim 19, wherein the noise reduction sleeve is comprised of a polymer.

21. The bar assembly according to claim 19, wherein the noise reduction sleeve is comprised of plastic.

22. The bar assembly according to claim 19, wherein the noise reduction sleeve is comprised of Teflon ®.

23. The bar assembly according to any one of claims 14 through 22 wherein the bars are not rotationally symmetrical in transverse cross section.

24. The bar assembly according to any one of claims 14 through 23 wherein the ratio of the width of the bars to the spacing between the bars, from bar centre to bar centre, is approximately 1 :5.

25. The bar assembly of any one of claims 14 through 24, further comprising a hinge connecting the a ssembly to the f rame, so that the assembly is pivotable about the hinge to pivot the assembly from a closed position to an open position, wherein the assembly in the closed position prevents passage through the framed opening and the assembly in the open position allows passage through said opening.

26. The bar assembly according to claim 25, further comprising a hydraulic arm operable to guide the assembly from the closed position to the open position.

27. The bar assembly according to claim 25 or 26 further comprising a releasing actuator that is operable to release the assembly from the closed position to the open position.

28. The bar assembly according to claim 27, wherein the releasing actuator is remote from the framed opening.

29. The bar assembly according to any one of claims 14 through 28, further comprising shutter vanes rotatably attached to the bars, the vanes being rotatable on the bars between open and closed positions to variably cover portions of the framed opening between the spaced apart bars.

30. The bar assembly according to claim 29, wherein the bars are inserted in a space within hollow shutter vanes, the space being formed by attached opposing shutter vane leaves.

31. A bar assembly for an opening comprising: a) opposing channel members in spaced apart relationship adapted to be positioned on opposing sides of a framed opening, the channel members each comprising: i) an elongate rigid channel member having opposing side walls defining an elongate channel having a channel opening facing inwardly towards the framed opening; and, ii) one or more resilient channel covers engaging the side walls to occlude portions of the channel opening, and to define apertures in the channel opening facing inwardly towards the framed opening, the resilient channel covers being locked in the elongate channel; and, b) one or more bars adapted to span the framed opening to be slidably received by the apertures in the channel openings, so that opposing bar ends of the bars extend into opposing apertures in the channel openings to retain the bars in spaced apart relationship spanning the framed opening.

32. The bar assembly of claim 31 , further comprising one or more channel inserts housed in the elongate channels, wherein the inserts are shaped to define portions of the apertures in the channel openings, so that the inserts bear on the bar ends to maintain the bars in spaced apart relationship in the elongate channels.

33. The bar assembly of claim 32, wherein the channel covers are press fit in the inserts to lock the channel covers and the inserts in the elongate channels.

34. The bar assembly of claim 33, wherein the channel covers are press fit into the inserts so that an insert locking extension on the channel cover locks the channel covers into engagement with the inserts.

35. The bar assembly of claim 34, wherein the inserts comprise insert shoulders that define a channel cover opening that is sized to receive the insert locking extension on the channel cover.

36. The bar assembly of claim 35, wherein the insert locking extension on the channel c over c omprises flexible a rms t hat are c ompressible t o a Now the a rms and the locking extension to pass through the channel cover opening formed by the insert, the arms being resiliently expandable so that the arms extend when the channel covers are press fit into the inserts so that the arms bear on the insert shoulders to lock the channel covers onto the inserts.

37. The bar assembly of claim 34, 35 or 36 wherein the opposing side walls of the channel members have channel lips that engage the inserts, to retain the inserts in the elongate channels, and the inserts have insert teeth that interlock with channel cover teeth on the channel covers, to form an interlocking channel cover and insert assembly reinforcing the elongate channels.

38. The bar assembly of claim 37, wherein the insert locking extension on the channel cover mates with the channel cover opening on the i nserts to l ock t he inserts into engagement with the channel lips, locking the channel covers and the inserts into the elongate channels to further reinforce the elongate channels.

39. The bar assembly of any one of claims 14 to 38, wherein the bars are slidably retained in the apertures in the channel openings.

40. The bar assembly of any one of claims 31 through 39, further comprising a hinge connecting the a ssembly to the frame, so t hat the assembly is pivotable about the hinge to pivot the assembly from a closed position to an open position, wherein the assembly in the closed position prevents passage through the framed opening and the assembly in the open position allows passage through said opening.

41. The bar a ssembly of claim 40, wherein the h inge comprises a m ounting bracket attached to the frame for hingedly receiving one of the channels.

42. The bar assembly of claim 40 or 41 further comprising a releasing actuator that is operable to release the assembly from the closed position to the open position.

43. The bar assembly of claim 42, wherein the releasing actuator is remote from the framed opening.

44. The bar assembly of any one of claims 31 to 43, wherein the channels have a uniform cross sectional profile.

45. The bar assembly of claim 44, wherein the channels are aluminum extrusions.

46. The bar assembly of any one of claims 31 to 45, wherein the channel covers have a uniform cross sectional profile.

47. The bar assembly of claim 46, wherein the channel coves a re polymeric moldings or polymeric extrusions.

48. The bar assembly of any one of claims 31 to 47, wherein the inserts have a uniform cross sectional profile.

49. The bar assembly of claim 48, wherein the inserts are polymeric moldings or polymeric extrusions.

50. The bar assembly of claim 49, wherein the inserts are polyvinyl extrusions.

51. The bar assembly of any one of claims 31 to 50, wherein one or more of the bars comprises fixed opposing bar ends, having bar ends that are fixed slidably in the opposing channels, to fix the opposing channels of the assembly in spaced apart relationship.

52. The bar assembly of any one of claims 14 to 45, wherein the apertures in the channel members comprise sleeves extending out of the channels to accept one or more bar ends.