WO2012012831A1

WO2012012831A1 - Security alert device

Info

Publication number: WO2012012831A1
Application number: PCT/AU2011/000946
Authority: WO
Inventors: Angelo Ganino
Original assignee: Angelo Ganino
Priority date: 2010-07-27
Filing date: 2011-07-27
Publication date: 2012-02-02
Also published as: AU2011284787B2; AU2011284787A1; AU2011284787C1

Abstract

A switch box (100) for installation in or on a structure in which an article moves between a closed position and an open position relative to the structure, the switch box (100) including a front wall, a rear wall, a pair of side walls, a top wall and bottom wall and a tamper link device (121) positioned across one of the walls to detect tampering with the box (100), the tamper link device (121) including a link that is part of an electrical circuit which is broken when the link is dislodged by tampering upon whioh an alarm signal is triggered. A further switch box (300) has a switch (302), switch actuator (318) with the switch (302) mounted adjacent an internal surface of at least one of the walls.

Description

SECURITY ALERT DEVICE

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to security alert devices and more particularly relates to security modules that can provide an alert on the status of an object that provides entry into a secure area, for example a door or window. In particular it can indicate whether, for example, a door is in an open or closed position and whether a lock associated' with the door is in a locked position or an unlocked position.

Background to the Invention

Devices used to alert a user or personnel of a security firm, for example, of entry through a door or window have existed for some time. A particular example of detecting whether a door has been opened, from a closed position, is by using a reed switch. A reed switch consists of a pair of contacts positioned on non-ferrous metal reeds and operates under the action of an applied magnetic field. Such a magnetic field can be applied through a non-ferrous piece of metal, for example fixed to a door while the reed switch is positioned adjacent a door jamb or within the frame of the door. Thus when the door is in a closed position the magnetic field so applied will cause the reeds to come together and therefore complete an electrical circuit indicating that the door is in a closed position. If the door is opened then the magnetic field is removed and the contacts of the reeds arc separated and therefore break the circuit. This can trigger en alarm that the door has been opened. A similar indication can be made conversely whereby the contacts may be normally closed, for example when the door is opened, and then the contacts open when the magnetic field is applied, when the door is closed.

Reed switches of this type are generally a standalone configuration in which they are not fully encapsulated, and therefore are prone to being tampered with. An intruder may readily "short-out" the reed switch undetected so that entry can be gained at a later time.

Furthermore, for those reed switches that are not as easily able to be damaged or removed, these may be fitted with a tamper switch to provide evidence of tampering to the reed switch. In the past, "end of line" systems that are connected to the reed switch have generally been enclosed within a resin so that it is effectively a sealed unit Where a resin does not encase an end of line unit, a tamper unit may be attached to the "end of line" to provide evidence of tampering to the "end of line" unit, which can have encryption-based information transmitted from the "end of line" unit to a remote location. However there is no simple manner of testing a tamper switch, so as to see if its operation is correct, where the tamper switch is difficult to get to, for example, behind a reed switch that is recessed into a door frame in a tamper box. It is difficult to test and re-check any procedure that is needed on such a tamper switch located in the tamper box.

Other arrangements can be used to detect the opening and closing of a door, through its locking system, These use micro-switch boxes that have a micro-switch activated, for example through a plunger or lever coming into contact with a bolt or latch of a lock that is positioned in a door. Movement of the plunger or lever triggers the micro-switch to send a signal or alarm to a remote station.

Furthermore the position of the micro-switch lever or plunger has to be set correctly so that it interacts or makes contact with the bolt of the door lock. This has to be done for each different application of the micro-switch box as the tolerance fbr the alarm contacts is tight or stringent. In this case, the micro-switch box has to be dismantled to adjust and re-adjust the micro-switch. The above references to and descriptions of prior proposals or products are not intended to be, and are not to be construed as, statements or admissions of common general knowledge in the art.

In this specification, including the claims, the directional terms "top", "bottom", "side", "rear", "front", "upper", "lower" and the like will be used in the sense that these terms would have with reference to a switch box of the present invention as shown in the accompanying Figures.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a switch box for installation in or on a structure in which an article moves between a closed position and an open position relative to said structure, the switch box including:

a front wall, a rear wall, a pair of sides walls, a top wall and bottom wall, said top wall and said bottom wall affixed to each of the front wall, rear wall and the pair of side walls; and

a tamper apparatus positioned in the switch box and is able to be tested without dismantling the switch box.

Preferably, the tamper apparatus is a tamper link device positioned across one of the walls of the switch box to detect tampering with said switch box, the tamper link device including a link that is part of an electrical circuit which is broken when the link is dislodged by said tampering upon which an alarm signal is triggered.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a switch box fo installation in or on a structure in which an article moves between a locked position and an unlocked position, the switch box including:

a front wall, a rear walJ, a pair of sides walls, a top wall and a bottom wall;

switch means housed within the switch box, a switch actuator associated with the switch means;

wherein said switch actuator moves between a first position and a second position to indicate the locked or unlocked position of the article and said switch means is mounted adjacent an internal surface of at least one of said walls.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described, by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure la is a perspective view of a switch box for installation in a structure in order to detect the state or condition of an article that moves between an open and a closed position and detect tampering to the switch box, the structure having a side waJJ partially cut away in order to show the internal components mounted within the box;

Figure lb is a perspective view of an alternative switch box for affixing to a structure in order to detect the state or condition of an article that moves between an open and a closed position and to detect tampering to the switch box;

Figure lc is a perspective view of a switch box for mounting to a structure together with an additional mounting box which is affixed to an article that moves between an open and closed position with respect to the switch box, the switch box also includes a component to detect tampering to the switch box;

Figure Id is a perspective view of a switch box partially cut away in order to show internal components of the switch box according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure le is a part sectional view through the front of the switch box of Figure Id and showing an additional outer casing;

Figure If is a diagram showing a tamper link device with a male component and a female component that when fitted together forms or closes an electrical circuit; Figure 1 g is a block diagram of an electrical circuit which includes the tamper link device and a tamper switch device;

Figure 1h is a perspective view of a switch box, partially cut away to show the internal components, wherein an active tamper ring of a reed switch is mounted in an aperture of a mounting block to detect removal of a reed switch from the aperture and thereby detect tampering with the switch box;

Figure lj is a perspective view of the switch box shown in Figure lh with a reed switch fully assembled within the switch box.

Figure 2a is a cross-sectional side view of a switch box for installation in a structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, shown together with a cover plate that attaches to the switch box;

Figure 2b is a perspective view of the switch box of Fig 2(a) with the side wall partially cut away;

Figure 2c is a further perspective view of the switch box of Fig, 2(a) showing the exposed switch actuator and tamper switch test points;

Figure 2d is a perspective view of alternative shapes of a cover plate used in a region where a lock bolt or latch of an article, such as a lock, strikes a switch actuator associated with the switch box of Figure 2(a);

Figure 3a is a side view of a portion of a switch box in which a switch is mounted within a bracket which is adjustable so that the position of the switch can be adjusted relative to the front wall of the switch box;

Figure 3b is a plan view of the switch box of Figure 3a with one of the side walls removed to show the internal components of the switch box; Figure 3o is a perspective view from above of the switch box of Figure 3b showing a separate facing plate that can be attached to the front wall of the switch box of Figure 3b;

Figure 3d is a perspective view from above more clearly showing a bracket that is used to house or mount a switch within the switch box of Figure 3b;

Figure 3e is a perspective view from above showing the bracket in Figure 3d. Figure 3f is a perspective view from above of an alternative bracket having an aperture in a web of the bracket;

Figure 3g is a perspective view from above of a switch box formed in two parts, being an outer casing and a tray that fits within the casing, the tray containing the components of the switch box;

Figure 4a is a view of an alternative switch box with one of the side walls removed to show the internal components of the switch box, wherein an actuator block is used to enable a switch actuator to move between a first and second position to actuate a switch

Figure 4b is a side view showing a plunger associated with the actuator block mounted to a shaft; and

Figure 4c is a side view of an alternative arrangement of the actuator block and plunger and how the actuator block actuates the microswitch,

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

With reference to Figure la there is shown a security module (100) in the form of a switch box (102) attached at a front wall 170 to a mounting bracket or plate (104). The switch box (100) is to be installed ini a structure, such as a door jamb or window frame, where an aiticle, such as a door or window, moves between closed and pen positions and/or locked and unlocked positions. The mounting plate 104 can also act as the front wail of the switch box. The switch box 100 has rear wall 171, top wall 172, bottom wall 173 and side walls 174, 175. Within box (102) there is mounted a switch means (106), which can be any one of a reed switch such as a Chubb triple reed switch, a Magnasphere™ switch or Hall Effect switch. The switch means 106 has one face protruding through the bracket (104) so that the face is flush with the external surface of the mounting plate (104). The plate 104, upon installation, will have a further face plate connected flush against the plate 104. A push button or screw, or similar device, will be in contact with a tamper switch 108 to detect any removal of the face plate and to enable a technician to test the tamper switch 108. The switch means (106) may alternatively be fully enclosed within box (102). A tamper switch (108) is also affixed to the internal surface of plate (104) and also extends partially through the external surface of plate (104). A tamper link device may also be fitted to the switch box 102. Each of the switch means (106) and tamper switch (108) have leads (110, 112) respectively connected to a security module (114) which is otherwise known as an "end of line device" or an "end of line module". The module (114) includes electronic components so that upon detection by the tamper switch (108) of tampering to the module (100) or upon detection of a door closing or opening by the switch means (106), a signal is sent through leads (110, 112) to the module (114) and thereafter an alert signal is sent to a remote location. The signals may be transmitted to the remote location from module (114) using fixed line or wireless communications. Other indications may be given to make a person aware of the changed conditions associated with the unit (100), such as a light or LED being illuminated.

The mounting plate (104) will generally sit flush within a frame or a wall or any other edge which is in close proximity to a door or window. A corresponding metal ferromagnetic element is fitted to the door or the area that is to be monitored so that when the element is in close proximity to the switch means or alarm monitor switch (106), particularly in the case of a reed switch or Magnasphere switch, a signal can be sent to indicate the closed state of the door or window. When the element is apart or separated from the switch means (106), then a further signal can be transmitted to indicate that the door or window has been opened.

Mounted in the plate (104) is a pair of test points (116) for the tamper switch

(108), which can also be accessed through a face plate 105 attached to plate 104 (see Figure 1(b)). A test of the switch 108 can be made at button (117) by pressing it inwardly. Alternatively, a screw can be rotated to test the switch 108, which also protrudes through the face plate 10S. Thus a technician does not have to pull the mounting plate (104), face plate 105 and box (102) away from its installation, in order to open the box 102 and thereafter test or repair the tamper switch (108) if found to be faulty.

Mounting apertures (118) are provided in the mounting plate (104) to enable fasteners to attach to a face plate and to attach the unit (100) to a frame, wall or floor, with the box (102) being recessed and out of view. The switch means (106) prevents a person prying open or gaining access to a door or window to which the box ( 2) is attached, using for example a crowbar, without having being detected. Referring to Figure 1 (b) there is shown an alternative switch box 100 to that of Figure 1 (a). It includes a breakable link, otherwise known as a tamper link device (121) or in the alternative a tamper link (121) and a tamper switch (11 ). The advantage of a breakable link over a micro-switch is that it is not a mechanical device that can break down and need replacing or otherwise fail to indicate an alarm. The tamper link (12 ) is more clearly shown in Figure 1(f) and comprises a male part (123) and a female part (12S). The tamper link (121) Is essentially part of an electrical circuit shown in Figure 1(g) such that removal of the male part (123) of the tamper link (121) breaks the electrical circuit and thereby enables an alarm or signal to be sent to a remote location to indicate that the box (102) has been tampered with or attempted to be tampered with including removal of a face plate such as plate (104). A pair of contacts (127) extend from the bottom of the female portion (125). When the legs (129, 131) of the male part of (123) of link (121) sit within corresponding connectors (117, US) of the female portion, these legs (129, 131) are respectively in contact with the contacts (127) to form a closed circuit. Therefore, removal of the male part (123) will disconnect the leg (129) from contact (127) and the leg (131) from contact (125) to thereby break the circuit. The male portion (123) may be attached to the plate (104) to detect removal or attempted removal of the face plate attached to box 102, or detect movement of the inner tray with respect to the outer casing, Thus, removal of the plate (104) or the tray will break or release the male portion (123) from the female portion (125).

The switch box 100 can be in the form a "matchbox" whereby top wall 172 and bottom wall 173 arc formed on a tray that slides in and out of an outer casing or shell. The outer casing or shell is made up of front wall 104 (and or plate 105), rear wall 171 and side walls 174, 175. In order to pull apart the matchbox, that is, slide the tray out of the shell, it is necessary to remove the male portion of the tamper link device 121 and a tamper screw (not shown) associated with tamper switch 119 securing the tray to the outer casing.

More than one switch 106 can be used to detect entry with a double door or window. The switches, which can be triple reed or Magnasphere, would each be adjacent a respective doorAvlndow and positioned on the frame and a corresponding magnet attached to a door or window adapted to be kept in close proximity to the switches to indicate a closed state. Generally, two triple reed switches are used to detect movement of the doors and ne tamper switch is used to detect tampering with the switch box. The tamper link device 121 and tamper switch device (119) provide two lines of defence against intrusion and are shown more clearly in Figure 1(c). They will be described in relation to Figures 1 (d) and 1 (e).

Referring to Figure 1(c) there is shown a further example of a micro switch box (120) having a pair of side walls 133, 135), a front wall (137) and a rear wall (139), a top wall (141) and a bottom wall (142). Within the switch box (120) there is a switch (122) (either reed or magnasphere), a tamper switch (124) and an end of line module (126). Each of the switch (122) and the tamper switch (124) are connected through leads to the alarm monitor switch which is the end of line module (126). The switch box (120) also includes an access point (128), which can be a screw (similar to ISO), for the tamper switch (124) to enable tests or routine monitoring of the tamper switch by a technician. The tamper switch and the screw can be regarded as tamper apparatus. In this manner the switch box (120) does not need to be opened or pulled apart in order to have access to the tamper switch (124).

The switch box (120) can be mounted to one part of a structure, such as a door jamb or window frame, which is adjacent an article, such as a door or window, which is typically moved between a closed and open position, An additional mounting box (130) will be in close proximity to the switch box (120) when the article is in a closed position and magnetic means (132) located on the box (130) is in close proximity to the switch (122).

The switch box (120) can therefore be mounted to a frame of a door or a window or even on a surface such as a wall or the ground. Corresponding mounting box (130) can be affixed to an article that moves between an open and closed position, such as a window or a door. In this manner opening or closing of the article can be detected through the switch (122) with the signal being sent to the end of line module (126). In addition, tampering to the switch box (120) can be detected by the tamper switch (124), or alternatively a tamper link device, and a signal sent to the end of line module (126).

Referring to Figure 1(d) there is shown a switch box (144) similar to box (120) shown in Figure 1(c), It includes a switch means (106), a security or end-of-line module (114), a tamper link (121) and a tamper switch (119), in the form of a micro-switch. The tamper switch (119) is optional and can be mounted adjacent an interior wall of the switch box 144. A tamper cover (146) is secured to a correspondingly shaped recess (148) by cover screws (150) and (152), The tamper cover 146 can be regarded as a face plate having the same function as face plate 105 in Figure 1(b). The tamper link device 121 is positioned across or attached to the cover 146 and casing 147. The male portion (123) of the tamper link (121) is embedded in or connected to the cover (146) at an underneath face thereof. When it is in the position shown in Figure 1(e), the electrical circuit of which the tamper link (121) forms a part, is in a closed configuration. If anyone was to tamper with the cover (146) by unscrewing the fasteners (150) (or 152), in particular screw 150, this would set off an alarm through tamper switch device 119 as the lever of the switch device would no longer be in contact with the screw ISO, This provides a first alarm that can be sent to a remote location. Then removal of screw 152 in order to remove the cover 146 would disengage the male part (123) of link (121) from the female part (125) which is located within the mounting box (144) and thereby break the circuit and enable a further signal or alarm to be sent to a remote location through the end of line unit (1 14) to indicate that the box (144) has been tampered with, A urther secondary line of security is provided with the tamper link 121 . The tamper switch 119 has a lever which is in contact with screw 150 in a set position. Any dislodgcment, tampering or removal of screw 150 activates the tamper switch to send a signal to a remote location. Alternatively, the tamper switch can be used to contact, through its lever, screw 152, Thus, two independent alarms can be generated, one from link 121 and the other from a tamper switch 119 (associated with screw ISO or 152). The outer casing (147) is secured to the box (144) through a mounting screw (149). Routine testing can be applied by a technician using the screws 150, 152 and/or 149 without opening up entirely the box (144). AH that has to be done is adjust screws 150, 152 and remove the cover plate (146) via the screws (150) and (152) to test screw 149.

Shown in Figure 1(g) is an electrical circuit (160) which includes a tamper link (121) that shows separately a connection of the male part (123) to the female part (125) through connectors (117) and (115). The link (121) is connected in series with the tamper switch (119), and in this instance a micro switch (119), which in turn is connected in scries with the security module or end of line module (114). This is connected through a pair of cables to a remote computer monitoring facility (not shown). Thus, any break in the switch (119) or in the link (121) will open the circuit and enable a signal to be sent by the security module (114) back to the remote computer to indicate that the switch box (144) or (120) has been tampererd with.

Referring to Figures 1(h) and l(j there is shown a further embodiment of a switch bo (160). As with the embodiment in Figure 1(d) it discloses a tamper switch device (119) and a tamper link device (121). A triple reed switch (163) is used. Two of the reeds/contacts of the triple reed switch (163) are used to detect opening and closing of a door or window when the box (160), made from aluminium for example, is mounted adjacent the door or window. The third contact or third reed may be used as an active tamper ring (164) which is mounted in an aperture through mounting block (162) inside box (160). The ring 164 is made from a suitable metal and is essentially a hollow cylinder or sleeve which houses the reed switch 1 3. Removal of the reed switch 163 will set off an alarm to a remote location, It is possible for the active tamper ring (164) to detect a stronger magnet than is generally used with the reed switch which can be used to defeat the magnet associated with the reed switch, The active tamper ring (164) detects such a large magnetic field and is able to generate an alarm, This supplies a further line of protection against unauthorised entry or tampering of the box (160). The triple reed switch is not designed to mount externally of a door frame or window frame, however the embodiments of Figures 1 (h) and 1 (j) makes this possible.

With references to Figures 2(a) to 2(d), there is shown an embodiment of a switch box (200) that houses a micro-switch (202), an alarm monitor switch (204) which can be a reed or magnaspherc switch, and a tamper switch (206). The micro-switch box (200) has a rear wall (208), top wall (210), bottom wall (212) and side walls (214, 216) as well as a front wall (218). The front wall (218) may have a recessed portion (220) formed by a third front wail portion consisting of walls 252, 254 and 251, existing between first and second front wall portions (219, 221) through which extends a micro-switch actuator, being a plunger (222), through a respective aperture (224), the plunger (222) being in contact or proximity to the micro-switch (202). Flanges (223) and (225) extend beyond front wall portions (219) and (221) respectively to assist in connecting the switch box (200) to the cover plate (230). A biasing means (226) is connected between the rear wall (208) and the back of the micro-switch (202). The switch box 200 may have a tamper link device positioned therein and function in a similar way to those tamper link devices described in this description. The switch box 200 may also be formed as a "matchbox" arrangement as previously described.

The recessed portion (220) in the front wall (218) accommodates a cover box (228), for covering a bolt or latch of an associated door/window lock, which extends from an internal side of cover or strike plate (230) in the region of the recess (220). The box (228) has an apeiture (232), shaped to conform to the particular latch bolt (234) used in the door lock with the bolt (234) adapted to protrude through the aperture (232) in order to make contact with the plunger (222),

A pair of apertures (236) in the cover plate (230) at e aligned with test points (237) of the tamper switch (206) to enable easy testing of the switch through a probe or fork used by a technician. Button (239) also serves as a test point which can be pressed inwardly by a technician.

In operation, in a closed position bolt (234) protrudes through aperture (232) and makes contact with plunger (222) in order to compress the plunger (222) against the force supplied in the biasing means (spring) (226), by compressing the spring (226) and therefore moving the micro-switch (202), This can send a signal through wires (238) to a remote location to indicate that the door or a window is in a locked or closed state. Upon retracting the bolt (234) and opening a door or a window, the plunger (222) moves outwardly under the force of the spring (226) expanding back to its original state and therefore pushing the micro-switch external to recess (220). Thus the micro-switch plunger (222) extends even further outwardly of the face of the recessed portion (220). This outward movement of the micro-switch plunger (222) triggers the switch (202) to send a signal over the wire (238) and through conduit (240) to a remote location to alert that the plunger (222) is no longer in contact with bolt (234) and therefore most likely the door has been opened. Given the range of movement of the plunger (222) thete is no need to have to set the distance between the bolt (234) and the plunger (222) as is required in the prior art.

A switch (204), such as a reed switch or a magnasphere switch, detects opening and closing of the door to which the bolt (234) is attached by detecting the present or non- presence of a corresponding ferro-magnetic material in the door or window portion that houses the bolt (234). When this happens, the signal is generated and transmitted along wire (242) to a remote location.

A tamper switch (206) also triggers a signal when an attempt is made to tamper with the box (200) and this is sent over wire (244) through the conduit (240) to a remote location. A further sensor, in the form of tilt sensor (242) is provided as evidence of movement or tampering of box (200). This can for example use mercury as its medium, so that any change in the orientation or level of mercury activates the sensor to send a signal over cable (246) to the remote location,

The plunger (222) can have a weatherproof rubber covering, which is ideally ribbed, to seal against dust and water ingress to the micro-switch (202) and the micro- switch box (200). To a certain extent dust and water can also be kept out or away from the box (200) by cover box (228) as it has a top side (248) and bottom side (250) that is preferably adjacent to the respective sides (252, 254) of recess (220).

Shown in Figure 2(d) are two variations on the lock cover box (228). The upper figure denotes a lock cover box having aperture (232) which is circular to correspond with a circular bolt from the article (door, window) and the lower figure has a square or rectangular aperture (232) to correspond with a rectangular or square bolt (234) from the door/window. Preferably the clearance is minimal between the outside surface of the bolt (234) and the inside surface of the aperture (232).

With reference to Figure 3(a) there is shown a further embodiment of a microswitch box (300) having therein a microswitch (302). The microswitch (302) is positioned within an adjustment bracket (308) which in turn is connected to a front wall (304) of the box (300) by a pair of first listening devices (310) and (312), such as screws, A further second pair of fastening devices in the form of screws (314, 316) secure the microswitch (302) after adjustment against a bottom wall (303) of switch box (300). Adjusting the position of microswitch actuator (318), so that it is positioned at (he correct distance relative to contact through a latch bolt of a lock, is performed through the adjustment screws (310, 312) which enables the adjustment bracket (308) to move towards or away from the front wall (304). A pair of slots (not shown) formed in the bottom wall (303) allows movement of the screws (314, 316), which are loose prior to installation of box 300. One or more grooves or guiding elements may be required to be formed in the bottom wall 303 to ensure that the pair of screws 314, 316 do not become misaligned. Once the initial adjustment is made, then the microswitch (302) can be secured to the microswitch box (300) through the screws (314, 316) if there is no gap.

Referring to Figures 3(b) and 3(c) it is seen that microswitch (302) is positioned within adjustment bracket (308) and the actuator or plunger (318) protrudes through wall (309) through corresponding aperture (311). A recess or open space (319) is formed and is set back from portions 337 and 339 of front wall (304) of the box (300), portions 337 and 339 are positioned either side of recess 319. The walls 309, 350 and 3S2 are regarded as forming part of the front wall 304. The recess (319) enables space for the latch bolt of the associated lock to contact the plunger (318), The fasteners (310, 312) respectively connect to a first leg (313) of adjustment bracket (308) through respective apertures (324, 322). Each of the apertures 322, 324 are threaded to provide a threading action which would move the adjustment bracket (308) forwards and backwards to the required distance from wall (304), Once the correct adjustment has been made in relation to the plunger (318) and its contact with the latch bolt, the fasteners (316, 314) are screwed tightly into corresponding apertures (321, 323) in web 317 of adjustment bracket 308 and through the pair of slots (not shown) in bottom wall (303) to secure the position of the microswitch (302) to the base or bottom wall (303) of box (300). A gap can exist between the interior of the bottom wall 303 and the microswitch 302 through the use of appropriate screws 314, 316 that enable the raicroswitch 302 to be firmly affixed to the screws 314, 316 but not directly touching the bottom wall 303, allowing the micro-switch 302 to move backwards and forwards without requiring to undo screws 314, 316.. This enables adjustment of screws 310, 312 in order to set the required distance of the microswitch 302 from the front wall 304 without opening up the entire box 300. A rear leg (315) is connected to the front leg (313) of the adjustment bracket (308) through web (317), This is more clearly seen in Figure 3(e).

In operation, upon detection of actuator (318) being pushed inwardly through contact with a latch bolt tongue, which indicates that the bolt is latched in a closed position, a signal is sent to the end of line unit or security module (326) through wiring (325) and then a further signal is sent through wiring (327) to a remote monitoring system connected to the other end of the wiring (327). Wiring (327) extends through a rear aperture (329) through back wall (306). Alternatively an aperture may be formed in bottom wall 305, particularly for a matchbox design of box 300 where an outer casing encloses an inner tray that slides within the outer casing.

A further signal can be sent when it is detected that the latch bolt tongue is not in contact with the actuator (318) anymore to Indicate that the bolt is unlatched and such a signal can be sent through the end of line module (326) to a remote monitoring terminal.

Also fitted within the box (300) is a tamper switch (328) connected through wiring (331) to the end of line module (326). The tamper switch (328) will detect opening or tampering of box (300), and in particular detect removal or attempted removal of face plate 341 through screw 332. It can be serviced or tested by a technician through a screw (such as 332) or an indentation that can be depressed located on the outside of the face plate 341. Also included is a tamper link device (330) which can detect opening or tampering with the box (300) by breaking the circuit which is attached to the end of line unit through wiring (333).

As seen in Figure 3(c), an additional device in an alarm switch (33S) is supplied, which can be a reed switch or a magnasphere switch, that can detect the open or closed state of a window or door for example as previously described. Also shown is face plate 341 detached from front wall 304. It has a corresponding aperture 343 that fits over recess 319 and mounting holes that align with mounting holes in the firont wall for securing the face plate 341 to the front wall 304 by suitable fasteners such as screws,

Referring to Figure 3(f) there is shown an alternate adjustment bracket (308) which has an aperture (336) in the web (317). The microswitch (302) can be housed within the opening (336) and seoured in position by respective peripheries of the web (317) around the opening (336). The screws (314, 316) are still required to tighten and secure the microswitch 302 from further movement. A gap can exist between the interior of the bottom wall 303 and the microswitch 302 through the use of the screws 314. 316 (hat enable the microswitch 302 to be firmly affixed to the screws 314, 316 but not directly touching the bottom wall 303, Alternatively a shell may be formed around the microswitch (302) to prevent it from moving within the box (300).

Referring to Figure 3(g), there is shown a switch box (300) that is formed in two parts, similar to a matchbox, in that there is an outer casing (340) made up of wall 306, front wall protions 337, 339, top wall (301) and underneath wall (303), Sliding within the outer casing (340) is a tray (342) which includes end walls (305) and (307), side walls (354, 356), and walls (309, 350 and 352). Mounted on the tray (342) are all the various components internal to the box (300). This matchbox form of the switch box 300 cannot be separated, that is the tray 342 cannot be separated from the outer casing 340, without removing a tamper screw associated with tamper switch 328, which secures the inner tray 342 to the outer casing 340, and removing the tamper link 330.

In Figure 3(d) there is shown the tray (342) with the adjustment bracket (308) connected to the front wall (304) through the fasteners (310, 312). Each of the fasteners (310, 312) have a respective biasing means, in the form of a spring, mounted thereon 344, 346, in order to provide back pressure so that the screws 310, 312 do not become undone and hold the screws 310, 312 in place. A cirolip is needed on each shaft of a respective screw 310, 312 to keep the springs 344, 346 in place. With reference to Figure 4(a) , there is shown a plan view of the switch box (400) with the outer casing of top cover removed. In Figure 4(a) the switch box (400) has a actuator block (408) connected to a shaft (409) which activates a microswitch (402) when pressure by a latch bolt of a lock bears against plunger (418) connected either directly to the block (408) or indirectly to the block (408). A biasing means, such as spring 412 is connected between the block (408) and back wall (406), The shaft (409) is mounted so that it does not contact the back wall (406) and leaves a small gap which is allowed to enable the block (408) to move backwardly to activate the microswitch (402). The shaft is connected to bracket (410) and held in position by nut (411). Stoppers (415, 416) prevent the block (408) from moving past the maximum distance allowable. The latch bolt protrudes within space (419) after closing the door or window, with the box (400) positioned in a door jamb or window frame. The co-location of the door or window in the frame can be sensed by an alarm monitor switch (435) such as a reed switch or a magnasphere switch, When the latch bolt makes contact with the plunger (418) it will push against the plunger (418) which in turn moves block (408) to depress lever (420) of the micro switch (402) and therefore activate the micro switch (402) to send a signal over cable (425) to an end of line module (426). This in turn can send a signal over line (427) out through opening (429) in the back wall (406) to a remote terminal to indicate the latch is in a closed position. Upon unlatching or moving the bolt away from the plunger (418), a further signal is set through the above communication lines when the lever (420) is not touching the block (408) and therefore the bolt has been retracted. Again, opening of the door or window can be sensed through the alarm switch (435). The block (408) moves against the spring 412 according to the pressure or lack of pressure applied by the bolt of the lock.

A tamper switch (428) is also positioned behind the wall (404) and can have a protruding element such as a screw (432) touching a lever (436) associated with the tamper switch (428). Removal of the screw (432) or tampering thereof will activate the tamper switch (428) to enable it to send a signal through line (431) to the end of line module (426) which in turn is sent to a remote terminal or monitoring station over link 427. A tamper link (430) is also positioned attached to the rear wall (406) such that separation of the back wall (406) from the remainder of the box (400) will lead to separation of a male component of the tamper link (430) from the female component and therefore activate a signal over link (433), either directly to the end of line module (426) or to the tamper switch (428). The switch box of Figure 4(a) is preferably a matchbox design so that what is shown in the Figure represents a tray that slides in and out of a casing. The casing has an aperture to fit over recess 419 and the topwall is 407 while the bottom wall is 405. Removal of the tray will necessitate breaking the tamper link device 430 and a tamper screw 432 associated with tamper switch 428.

Where the plunger (418) is adjustable to accommodate varying distances moved by the latch bolt, an arrangement is shown in Figure 4(b). This shows a screw (421) which protrudes through the plunger (418), through block (408) and uses the interna⁾ thread (423) in the shaft (409). A biasing means, such as spring (422) is positioned between the head of the screw (421) and wall (440) of the block (408), the spring 422 having a greater spring force (or k value) than spring 412. Wall (440) and side walls (442 and (444) define a recess or opening (446) within which the plunger (418) can move or be adjusted inwardly or outwardly of the block (408) to adjust for movement and solid contact with a latch bolt. Adjustments in or out of the plunger (418) with respect to the block (408) is made available through screw (421) and by having a small pin inserted through hole (414) which can contaot one of the walls of box (400) so that the shaft (409) does not rotate while performing that adjustment.

Once adjustment of the plunger (418) has been made, contact by a latch bolt tongue against the outer face (448) of plunger (418) will push the screw (421) and therefore the block (408) (and shaft (409) which then moves backwardly against the pressure provided by spring 412 and will contact lever (420) of microswitch (402) to activate a signal, previously described, to indicate that the latch bolt is engaged or in a locked position. As mentioned previously, the block (408) cannot move beyond the stoppers (415, 416). When the latch bolt is disengaged from the plunger (418), the block (408) moves outwardly under the action of the spring 412 to resume its normal position. This sends a signal via the microswitch (402), as the block (408) would no longer be in contact with the lever (420), to indicate that the latch bolt is no longer in the locked state.

Referring to Figure 4(c), a different arrangement to Figure 4(b) is presented with regard to an activator block used to trigger a microswitch. A stop (462) is mounted within the confines of the box (400) separate to the microswitch (466) and associated lever (468). The microswitch is generally mounted onto the bottom wall of the box (400). A flat biasing means, like spring (464) is attached to a front facing surface of the stop bracket (462). A shaft (476) is connected to and extends through the stop bracket (462) and provides support for a fastening means such as screw (472), The shaft (476) protrudes through activator block (460) and a further spring (474) is mounted around the outside of the screw (472) between the head of the screw (472) and an interior wall (478) of the actuator block (460). A plunger (470) has an aperture through which the screw (472) extends and plunger (470) is adjustable to account for variations in different latch bolts that would contact the plunger (470). The plunger (470) moves within a recess (484) bounded by walls (482, 480 and 478), adjustable through screw 472.. A further screw 475 enables adjustment of a gap between the actuator block 460 and stop bracket 462, it stops the block 460 from moving too far forward. Spring 464 keeps the block from putting pressure on or touching the microswitch 466 and lever 468 in a resting state, As the latch bolt makes contact with the plunger (470), it is depressed Inwardly within the recess (484) fractionally and at the same time through the screw (472) then connected to the actuator block (460). This forces the actuator block (460) to retract or push against the spring force (464) until the actuator block (460) comes into contact with lever (468). This activates a microswitch (466) to provide a signal to a remote location that the latch bolt is in the locking state. The purpose of the spring (464) is to ensure that the actuator block (460) moves only a limited distance towards the microswitch (466) and when the latch bolt is released to an unlocked state, the spring forces the actuator block (460) back to its original position away from lever (468). Detachment of the latch bolt or tongue from the adjustable plunger (470) can set off another signal to the remote location to indicate that the tongue or the lock is in an unlatched state. It is to be noted that microswitch 466 is not attached to stop bracket 462 but is adjacent one of the side walls of box 400.

Separate independent adjustment of the plunger can be made through rotation of the screw (472) inwardly or outwardly so that the plunger can be set to the correct distance to adequately interact with the latch bolt. A pin is required to be inserted in hole 478 and abut against an internal suiface of the box 400 so that the shaft 476 does not rotate when performing the adjustment.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A switch box for installation in or on a structure in which an article moves between a closed position and an open position relative to said structure, the switch box including:

a front wall, a rear wall, a pair of sides walls, a top wall and bottom wall, said top wall and said bottom wall affixed to each of the front wall, rear wall and the pair of side walls;

a tamper apparatus positioned in the witch box and is able to be tested without dismantling the switch box.

2 A switch box according to claim 1 wherein said tamper apparatus is a tamper link device positioned across one of the walls of the switch box to detect tampering with said switch box, the tamper link device including a link that is part of an electrical circuit which is broken when the link is dislodged by said tampering upon which an alarm signal is triggered.

3. A switch box according to claim 1 wherein in said tamper apparatus a tamper switch device for detecting removal or attempted removal of a cover, outer casing or face plate attached to the switch box, said tamper switch device capable of being tested without dismantling the switch box.

4. A switch box according to any one of the preceding claims further including an alarm monitor switch for detecting the closed position and the open position of the article with respect to the structure, wherein the alarm monitor switch can be tested without dismantling the switch box.

5. A switch box according to claim 3, wherein said cover is attached to one of said walls through fastening means and has a male portion of said tamper link device attached thereto, such that in a set position the male portion engages with a female portion of the tamper link device to close the electrical circuit and disengagement between the male portion and the female portion triggers said alarm signal which indicates that said cover has been removed or attempted to be removed.

6. A switch box according to claim 5 wherein an outer casing is positioned around the switch box and said cover resides in a recess of said outer casing.

7. A switch box according to claim 5 or claim 6 wherein said tamper switch device is positioned within said switch box and has a lever which is brought into and out of engagement with said fastening means to indicate when said fastening means has been moved.

S. A switch box according to claim S wherein said outer casing is secured to the switch box by a further fastening means.

9. A switch box according to claim 4 wherein the alarm monitor switch is a reed switch and an active tamper ring is mounted in an aperture of a mounting block mounted inside the switch box, wherein the reed switch is positioned within said aperture and removal of the reed switch from within the aperture is detected by said active tamper ring to activate a further alarm signal.

10. A switch box according to claim 4 wherein each of the tamper switch device, tamper link device and alarm monitor switch are linked to a secure communications module housed in the switch box, wherein a signal is sent t a remote location from said secure communications module indicating occurrence of said tampering or a change in position of said article.

11. A switch box according to any one of the preceding claims having an outer casing and a tray adapted for slidable movement in and out of the outer casing, wherein the outer casing has said front wall, said rear wall, said pair of side walls and said tray has at least said top wall and said bottom wall.

12. A switch box for installation in or on a structure in which an article moves between a locked position and an unlocked position, the switch box including;

a front wall, a rear wail, a pair of sides walls, a top wall and a bottom wall;

switch means housed within the switch box,

a switch actuator associated with the switch means;

13. A switch box according to claim 12 wherein the front wall has a recess formed between a first portion and a second portion of said front wall, said recess being partly formed by a third portion of said front wall.

14. A switch box according to claim 13 wherein the switch actuator protrudes through said third portion into said recess.

15. A switch box according to claim 14 wherein said switch means Is connected to the switch actuator adjacent the third portion of said front wall.

16. A switch box according to claim IS wherein said switch means is mounted within an adjustment bracket, said adjustment bracket connected to said front wail through first fastening means, whereby adjustment of the first fastening means enables adjustmeat of the distance between the switch means and the front wall.

17. A switch box according to claim 16 wherein at least a pair of slots is formed in one of the side walls in which a second fastening means moves as adjustment of the first fastening means occurs, said second fastening means used to affix the switch means to the switch box.

18. A switch box according to claim 16 wherein the adjustment bracket has an opening formed in a web of the bracket, wherein said switch means is positioned within said opening and is able to move relative to the switch box upon adjustment of said first fastening means.

19. A switch box according to any one of claims 12 to 15 wherein biasing means is connected between said rear wall and said switch means to enable said switch means to move to its original position after being deformed, together with the switch actuator, towards the rear wall upon the switch actuator making contact with a latch of a latch bolt, wherein further the actuator moves between the first and second positions.

20. A switch box according to claim 12 or claim 13 further including an actuator block adapted for movement against said* switch actuator to move said switch actuator between the first and second positions.

21. A switch box according to claim 20 wherein the actuator block is mounted adjacent the front wall of the switch box.

22. A switch box according to claim 21 wherein the actuator block is mounted within the recess adjacent the third portion of the front wall.

23. A switch box according to claim 21 or claim 22 wherein the actuator block is mounted on a shaft, said shaft being affixed at one end to the rear wall.

24. A switch box according to claim 23 wherein a plunger is attached to the other end of the shaft and extends partly into a recess formed in the actuator block.

25. A switch box according to claim 24 wherein upon contact by a latch of a lock attached to the article, the plunger moves the actuator block, under compression of a spring connected between the actuator block and the rear wall of the switch box, to actuate the switch means through movement of the switch actuator to indicate a latched position.

26. A switch box according to claim 24 or claim 25 whereupon retraction by a latch of a lock attached to the article, the actuator block under extension of a spring connected between the actuator block and the rear wall of the switch box, actuates the switch means through movement of the switch actuator to indicate an unlatched position.

27. A switch box according to claim 12 having an outer casing and a tray adapted for slidable movement in and out of the outer casing, wherein the outer casing has said front wall, said rear wall, said pair of side walls and said tray has at least said top wall and said bottom wall.

28. A switch box according to claim 27 wherein said tray has a recess that aligns with an aperture in said front wall when the tray is inside the outer casing, said aperture positioned between a first portion and a second portion of said front wall, said recess partly formed by a third portion of said front wall.

29. A switch box according to any one of claims 12 to 28 further including a tamper link device.

30. A micro-switch box according to any one of claims 12 to 29 further including a tamper switch device,

31. A switch box according to any one of claims 12 to 30 further including an alarm monitor switch,