WO2016012520A1

WO2016012520A1 - Window status sensor system

Info

Publication number: WO2016012520A1
Application number: PCT/EP2015/066801
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Derham
Original assignee: Mighton Products Limited
Priority date: 2014-07-22
Filing date: 2015-07-22
Publication date: 2016-01-28
Also published as: GB2528468A; GB201412984D0

Abstract

The present invention provides a window status sensor system which may be of particular use with a casement window of a domestic property. The window status sensor system may cooperate with or may be integrated into a home automation system. The present invention provides a window status sensor system which provides positive feedback on the status of the actual locking mechanism and the position of the locking rod 18. In particular, the present invention provides a signal concerning the position of the locking rod 18 and the associated locking lugs 20. Accordingly, a user will know that the window 10 is actually locked rather than being merely in a closed position. The window status sensor system detects and monitors the actual position of the locking rod 18 rather than merely monitoring the position of the window sash 14 and/or the locking handle 16 etc. Accordingly, this feedback provides positive reassurance that the locking lugs 20 are actually in an engaged/locked position.

Description

Window Status Sensor System

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a window status sensor system, an assembly comprising a window and a window status sensor and to a method of sensing the status of a window.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Security systems often include sensors to detect the unauthorised opening of a window, for example, during a burglary. Such sensors are generally located on the edge of the window located distally from the pivot with a corresponding sensing device being mounted on the window frame. As the window is pivoted towards an open position, the sensor is activated and an alarm signal may be generated. Such an alarm signal generally consists of a loud audible alarm which provides an alert to the property owner (or surrounding inhabitants) and also acts to scare the intruder due to the awareness of the unauthorised act having been detected.

Such alarms can be trigger inadvertently and these audible alarms may no longer attract the attention of surrounding unconnected people. Accordingly, an intruder may now continue with the unauthorised access in the knowledge that the alarm may not attract the attention of any unconnected people. In addition, the property may be located in a remote position with few, if any, surrounding people.

Many people now simply assume that an alarm is a false alarm and will not necessarily act on the triggering of an alarm system. This may be particularly relevant if such an alarm system has previously been triggered with a false alarm situation.

Accordingly, such alarm systems must be very robust to prevent false alarms and/or the alarm signal must be transmitted to the responsible person or surveillance person. Such people may be located remote from the location and a transmission method will therefore be required. In addition, these alarm systems for use with windows provide a simple check on whether the window is actually open or closed and no further information with regards to the status of the window is available.

Property owners may want to confirm the status of the property and, for example, may want to ensure that all the doors/windows are closed and/or locked, or the lights are off (or on, as required), the status of any appliances etc. Such a status check generally requires a user to individually check each item or appliance. This can be time consuming and laborious and also is impractical in many situations. It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a window status sensor system comprising:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

wherein the window status system is arranged to detect the position of a locking rod within a window assembly, and

wherein one component is arranged, in use, to be located on the locking rod, and

wherein the locking rod is movable from a first unlocked position to a second locked position and wherein the actuating component and the sensor component are arranged to detect the position of the locking rod in order to generate a signal which is then transmitted by the signal transmission means to a remote location.

Preferably the actuating component or the sensor component physically moves with the locking rod. Preferably the actuating component or the sensor component is physically fixed to (and/or integral with) the locking rod.

The actuating component may comprise a metallic component. The actuating component may comprise a metal locking element (locking lug/locking mushroom). The sensor component may comprise an inductive sensor (and/or a proximity sensor).

Preferably the sensor is arranged to detect the proximity of the actuating component and the proximity is defined to signal that the window is in a locked condition or in an unlocked condition.

Preferably the actuating component physically moves with the locking rod. Preferably the actuating component is mounted on the locking rod and preferably projects outwardly from the locking rod.

The actuating component may be arranged to physically move the sensor component between an unlocked condition and a locked condition.

Preferably the locking rod comprises an espagnolette rod.

The locking rod may be arranged, in use, to physically lock a window sash to a window frame.

The actuating component may be located on the locking rod. The actuating component may comprise an abutment surface. The abutment (or contact) surface may be arranged, in use, to engage with an abutment (or contact) surface provided by the sensor component. The actuating component may comprise an abutment surface located on a locking lug. Preferably the locking lug is provided on the locking rod. The locking lug may be arranged, in use, to physically lock a window sash to a window frame.

The actuating component may comprise an abutment surface located on a longitudinal end of the locking rod.

Preferably the sensor component comprises a switch. The switch may comprise an inductance switch.

The sensor may comprise an inductive sensor comprising an inductance coil.

Preferably the switch comprises an articulating member which is arranged, in use, to be physically moved to change the switch between an open position and a closed position and/or vice versa.

The articulating member is arranged to be contacted by the locking rod. The articulating member is arranged to be contacted by a locking lug. The articulating member may be slidably movable. The articulating member may be pivotally movable.

The switch may comprise a plunger member. Preferably the plunger member is urged outwardly from a housing towards a default unlocked position. Preferably the plunger member is arranged to be physically moved inwardly to move the switch to indicate a locked position.

The transmission means may comprise a Wi-Fi transmitter. The sensor component may comprise a reed switch.

The actuating component may comprise a magnet. The window status sensor system may comprise a window status sensor unit comprising a keep for engaging a locking element provided on a locking rod. The keep may comprise a slot for the engagement of the locking element therein. The keep may comprise a first slot and a second slot which selectively engage the locking element therein.

The keep may comprise a first slot and a second slot. The first slot may be arranged to retain the window in a first closed position and the second slot may be arranged to retain the window in a partially open position. The second slot may retain the window in a vent condition.

The sensor component may comprise a first sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the first slot and/or window is in a first closed position. The sensor component may comprise a second sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the second slot and/or the window is in a partially open (but preferably locked) position.

The sensor component may comprise a single sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the first slot and/or window is in a first closed position and the single sensor component may also detect that the locking element is retained in the second slot and/or the window is in a partially open (but preferably locked) position. The single sensor component may comprise a cylindrical sensing coil with a longitudinal central axis which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the slots. Preferably the first slot and the second slot comprise linear slots which are preferably parallel and spaced apart. The or each sensor may comprise a cylindrical sensing coil having a longitudinal central axis. The window status sensing system may have a first sensing coil arranged adjacent to a first slot and preferably with the longitudinal axis of the coil being substantially parallel with the first slot. The window status sensing system may have a second sensing coil arranged adjacent to a second slot and preferably with the longitudinal axis of the coil being substantially parallel with the second slot.

The or each retaining slot in the keep may be located asymmetrically on the keep. The first slot may be located closer to a first adjacent side of the keep compared the distance between the second slot and the second side of the keep. The or each slot may be located offset from a central axis on the keep.

The keep may be removably retained to the window status sensor unit. A first keep plate or a second keep plate may be selectively securable to the window status sensor unit wherein the first keep plate provides retaining slot(s) in a different position (and/or configuration) to the retaining slot(s) provided on the second keep plate. The window status sensor unit may provide a sensor retaining device to retain a sensor in the correct position relative to the slot. The window status sensor unit may comprise a plurality of sensor retaining devices to retain a sensor in a plurality of positions such that a user can select the position depending upon the position (and/orientation) of the slots in the keep.

A first keep plate may be used for a window opening from the left hand side and a second keep plate may be used for a window opening from the right hand side.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a window assembly comprising a window and a window status sensor system comprising: a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

wherein the locking rod is movable from a first unlocked position to a second locked position and wherein the actuating component and the sensor component are arranged to detect the position of the locking rod in order to generate a signal which is then transmitted by the signal transmission means to a remote location. Preferably the window comprises a casement window.

Preferably the window comprises a window sash and a window frame.

Preferably the window status sensor system is arranged to indicate whether the window sash is physically locked to the window frame.

Preferably the window status sensor system is arranged to detect a first condition of the window and a second condition of the window in which the first condition comprises the window sash being in an open unlocked condition or a closed unlocked position (and/or a partially open unlocked position) and the second condition comprises the window being in a closed and locked (or retained) condition.

The window status sensor system may be arranged to detect a third condition of the window in which the window is in a partially open but locked (or retained) position.

Preferably the locking rod is slidably mounted to the window sash. Preferably the locking rod is mounted in a groove (preferably a Eurogroove or US equivalent) provided by the window sash.

The sensor component may be located within a housing. The housing may comprise power means. The power means may comprise a battery. The housing may contain the transmission means.

The housing may comprise a self contained unit which includes the sensor component, the transmission means and power means. The housing may be arranged, in use, to be mounted adjacent to a longitudinal end of a locking rod.

The housing may be arranged, in use, to be located adjacent to a keep. The housing may be integral with a keep.

The assembly may comprise a first window status sensor unit and a second window status sensor unit. The first window status sensor unit may locate adjacent to or towards a first longitudinal end of the locking rod and the second window status sensor unit may locate adjacent to or towards a second longitudinal end of the locking rod.

The second window status sensor unit may be arranged to confirm or verify the condition of the window as detected by the first window status sensor unit. The locking rod may comprise a first locking element and a second locking element mounted thereon and in which the first locking element is arranged to be engaged within a slot (or slots) provided by a keep of the first window status sensor unit and the second locking element is arranged to be engaged within a slot (or slots) provided by a keep of the second window status sensor unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a home automation system comprising at least one window status sensor system, the window status system comprising:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

wherein the locking rod is movable from a first unlocked position to a second locked position and wherein the actuating component and the sensor component are arranged to detect the position of the locking rod in order to generate a signal which is then transmitted by the signal transmission means to a remote location. The home automation system may comprise a plurality of window status sensor systems.

Preferably each window status sensor system comprises identification means to enable the location of each individual window status sensor system to be identified.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of providing a window status sensor system, in which the window status sensor system comprises:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

wherein the locking rod is movable from a first unlocked position to a second locked position, and

wherein the method comprises installing the window status sensor system such that the actuating component and the sensor component are arranged to detect the position of the locking rod in order to generate a signal which is then transmitted by the signal transmission means to a remote location.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system installed to a casement window. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system installed to a casement window.

Figure 3a is a partially cutaway perspective view from outside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 3b is a partial view from outside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position. Figure 4a is a partially cutaway perspective view from inside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 4b is a partial view from inside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 5a is a partially cutaway perspective view from outside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 5b is a partial view from outside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 6a is a partially cutaway perspective view from inside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 6b is a partial view from inside of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 7a is a side schematic view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position. Figure 7b is a schematic plan view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 7c is a perspective schematic view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 8a is a side schematic view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 8b is a schematic plan view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 8c is a perspective schematic view of a first embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a casement window from the outside with a second embodiment of a window status sensor system. Figure 10 is a perspective view of a casement window from the outside with a second embodiment of a window status sensor system.

Figure 1 1 a is a partially cutaway view from the outside of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 1 1 b is a partial view of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position. Figure 12a is a partially cutaway view from the outside of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 12b is a partial view of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 13a is a partially cutaway view from the outside of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 13b is a partial view of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 14a is a partially cutaway view from the outside of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position. Figure 14b is a partial view of a second embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 15a is a side schematic view of a third embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position.

Figure 15b is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in an unlocked position. Figure 16a is a side schematic view of a third embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position. Figure 16b is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a window status sensor system with the locking rod in a locked position.

Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 19 is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 20 is a plan view of a printed circuit board outline of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system). Figure 21 is an internal view of a base portion of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 22 is a longitudinal cross section of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 23 is an internal view of a cover portion of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

Figure 24 is a lateral cross section of a preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit (system).

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention provides a window status sensor system which may be of particular use with a casement window of a domestic property. The window status sensor system may cooperate with or may be integrated into a home automation system. In such a home automation system, a user may be able to monitor and/or control several items throughout the property. For example, a user may be able to monitor and/or control numerous domestic parameters such as the status of a light, the status of a domestic appliances, the condition/status of a smoke detector, the level of an oil tank etc. The home automation system may also be linked to the thermostat and may also be linked to cameras within or around the property. Such a home automation system may be controlled by and monitored on a smartphone, tablet, remote PC etc.

A typical casement window 10 comprises a window frame 12 and a pivotally mounted window sash 14, as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2. The casement window 10 has hinges in order to pivotally mount the window sash 14 in the window frame 12. The hinges are configured to enable the window to pivot about a vertical axis such that the window sash 14 is retained in a vertical plane. Accordingly, the window sash 14 is arranged to open outwardly from one side of the window frame 12. However, it will be appreciated that the window status sensor system could be used with other types and styles of windows.

The casement window 10 includes a locking mechanism in order to lock the window, i.e. to lock the window sash 14 to the window frame 12 in a closed position. The locking mechanism comprises a locking handle 16 which is coupled to a locking rod 18 and such a locking mechanism comprises an espagnolette locking device. The locking rod locates in a Eurogroove 28 (or equivalent, for example, the US equivalent) provided along the outer edge of the window sash 14. The locking mechanism may or may not require a dedicated key and the use of such a dedicated key is seen as a secondary lock mechanism, i.e. the term "lock" in accordance with the present invention equates to retained/secured/engaged such that the window may still be openable without the use of a key. However, in some embodiments a key may be required and this provides a further level of security. In particular, the key locking mechanism may (directly) prevent rotation of the locking handle and this thereby prevents the window from being opened. The locking handle may only be mounted internally (i.e. no external locking handle) and, therefore, when the window is closed and the espagnolette locking rod engaged, this effectively locks the window and prevents a person from opening the widow from outside.

The locking handle 16 is pivotally mounted to the inside of the outer rail 26 of the window sash 14. The locking handle 16 is coupled to the locking rod 18 by a coupling mechanism such that the rotational movement of the locking handle 16 causes translational movement of the locking rod 18. The locking rod 18 is located on the outer edge of the outer rail 26 of the window sash 14 and the locking rod 18 is retained to slidably move up and down this outer edge.

The locking rod 18 has a number of locking elements comprising locking lugs 20 which are arranged to project outwardly from the locking rod 18. These locking lugs 20 may comprise locking bolts or locking pegs etc. The movement of the locking rod 18 thereby causes movement of these locking lugs 20 upwardly and downwardly relative to the window sash 14 and the window frame 12.

The locking mechanism further includes keeps 22 which are arranged to accept and retain the locking lugs 20 in the locked configuration. In particular, each keep 22 includes at least one locking slot 24 into which a locking lug 20 can be slidably moved. As mentioned above, this movement is caused through the action of the rotation of the locking handle 16 causing the translational movement of the locking rod 18.

When the casement window 10 is in a closed but unlocked position, the locking lugs 20 are disengaged with the locking slots 24 of a respective keep 22. In order to lock the window 10, the locking handle 16 is rotated and the locking rod 18 is slidably moved in order to move the locking lugs 20 into respective locking slots 24 within a keep 22. In this configuration, the window sash 14 is both closed and locked, i.e. a user could not simply push the locking handle 16 or window sash 14 in order to open the window 10. The casement window 10 may be provided with a key mechanism in order to actively lock the casement window 10 in this configuration. In particular, the locking handle 16 may have a key locking mechanism to prevent rotation of the handle 16 unless the key has unlocked this mechanism.

Prior art sensor systems are available to detect whether a window 10 is open or closed. However, unfortunately, many windows 10 may simply be closed without the locking mechanism having been correctly set. For example, a window sash 14 may simply be pushed to a closed position or may be closed by the action of wind such that the locking lugs 20 are not actually engaged in the locking slots 24. Such windows 10 have the appearance (i.e. by a visual inspection or by a prior art simple sensor system) of being correctly shut but the window 10 could actually be opened by a user simply pushing on the window sash 14. Accordingly, such signals give a false representation of the protection offered by the status of the window.

The present invention provides a window status sensor system which provides positive feedback on the status of the actual locking mechanism and the position of the locking rod 18. In particular, the present invention provides a signal concerning the position of the locking rod 18 and the associated locking lugs 20. Accordingly, a user will know that the window 10 is actually locked rather than being merely in a closed position.

The window status sensor system detects and monitors the actual position of the locking rod 18 rather than merely monitoring the position of the window sash 14 and/or the locking handle 16 etc. Accordingly, this feedback provides positive reassurance that the locking lugs 20 are actually in an engaged/locked position. A first embodiment of a window status sensor system operates with a typical UK/European style espagnolette locking system on a casement window, as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 8. Such a casement window includes a Eurogroove within the window and this is utilised in the first embodiment of the present invention.

The window sash 14 is shown in an unlocked and open position in Figure 1 and Figure 2. The position and placement of the keeps 22 and locking lugs 20 can be clearly seen but the present invention is not limited to this particular arrangement.

The window sash 14 can be pivoted using the hinge arrangement to a simple closed (but unlocked) position, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4. In this position, the locking handle 16 is in a raised position and the locking lugs 20 are aligned with a mouth portion of a respective locking slot 24 provided on a keep 22.

As the locking handle 16 is rotated downwardly, the locking lugs 20 slidably move upwards into the locking slots 24, as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6. In this position, the window sash 14 is positively engaged with and locked to the window frame 12 such that the window sash 14 cannot be pivotally moved about the hinges. As mentioned above, a further key locking mechanism can be used to further secure the window sash 14 in this position.

The window status sensor system comprises a sensor component and an actuator component which cooperate and register only in this locked position. As shown in Figures 7 and Figures 8, the sensor comprises a switch 30 and, specifically, a plunger type switch 30 which is only activated by a physical abutment and/or physical movement. The locking lug 20 provides the actuator in this arrangement. In particular, an abutment surface 32 of the locking lug 20 is arranged to abut and subsequently press the plunger switch 30 in order to activate the sensor. This demonstrates that the espagnolette rod 18 is in a locked position.

A reversal of the movement of the espagnolette rod 18 will disengage the locking lug 20/32 from the sensor switch 30 and the sensor will thereby detect that the espagnolette rod 18 is in an unlocked position. Accordingly, the present invention does not detect false positives in which the position of the window sash 14 and/or locking handle 16 may indicate remotely that the window 10 was secure when in fact the window 10 may be unlocked.

The window status sensor system includes a transmitter in order to transmit the status of the switch 30 to a remote location. In particular, the transmitter is arranged to transmit the signal wirelessly into their home network utilising a Wi-Fi network. This then enables a user to be notified of a change in status of the window 10 or for a user to positively confirm the status of a window 10 using a mobile phone.

An alternative version of a casement window 10 is shown in Figure 9 to Figure 14. This casement window 10 is typical of an espagnolette locking mechanism used in the US. It is noted that there is no Eurogroove in such a window. However, the present invention can be adapted for use with such a window. Again, this locking mechanism includes locking lugs 20 which are moved into engagement with a respective locking keep 22. The locking lugs 20 are moved into a locking position adjacent to a locking surface 42 provided by the keep 22. Such a locking surface 42 prevents the window sash from being simply moved to an open position prior to the unlocking movement of the locking lugs 20. This locking surface 42 may be provided by a single abutment face 42 rather than an enclosed locking slot as shown with the first embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the sensor again comprises a switch 30 which is activated by a physical contact caused by the movement of the espagnolette rod 18.

The sensor comprises a plunger type switch 30 located within a housing 34. The housing 34 is secured within the groove provided on the window sash 14. In particular, the housing is secured and located adjacent to a longitudinal end 36 of the espagnolette rod 18. Accordingly, in this version, the end face 36 of the espagnolette rod 18 acts as the actuator and is arranged to abut and press the switch 30 inwardly.

As shown in Figure 1 1 and Figure 12, in the unlocked position, the longitudinal end 36 of the espagnolette rod 18 is spaced apart or just touching the end of the sensor switch 30. When the window 10 is locked, the espagnolette rod 18 is raised such that the sensor switch 30 is pressed and this activates the sensor.

A further embodiment of a window status sensor system is shown in Figure 15 and Figure 16. In this embodiment, the window status sensor system detects the movement of the espagnolette rod 18 using a magnet 38 as the actuator and the sensor comprises a magnetic switch type device 40. As shown in Figure 15a and Figure 15b, in the unlocked position, the magnet 38 is spaced apart from a reed switch 40 such that the reed switch 40 will be in the default position (e.g. open). However, as the espagnolette rod 18 is moved upwardly into a locked position, the reed switch 40 is moved into an aligned position with the magnet 38. In this locked position, the magnet 38 will activate the reed switch 40 such that a signal can be transmitted to confirm that the window 10 is in the locked position. A preferred embodiment of a window status sensor unit 70 is shown in Figure 17 to Figure 24. As previously described, this window status sensor unit 70 comprises a sensor 72 to detect the presence of a locking lug 20 in a locking position/configuration. In particular, the sensor 72 detects the location (proximity) of the locking lug 20 within a locking slot 24, 94, 96 provided by the keep 92.

In this preferred embodiment, the sensor 72 comprises an induction sensor in which an electrical signal is generated due to the presence of the locking lug 20 adjacent to the sensor 72. The locking lug 20 comprises a metallic locking lug. The sensor 72 comprises an inductive sensor (proximity sensor).

The inductive sensor 72 is arranged to detect the movement and presence of the bobbin (locking lug) 20 on the espagnolette locks 18. Such inductive sensors 72 do not require precise alignment and tolerance of parts. In addition, such inductive sensors 72 are not affected by dust, dirt, water, and insects etc.

As mentioned above, alternative embodiments may incorporate pushbutton switches actuated by the bobbin 20 on the espagnolette locks 18 or optical devices using light infra red (IR) beams. However, in these embodiments the functionality may be compromised slightly by positional tolerance issues and light path obstruction issues. Accordingly, the preferred embodiment utilises a non- contact, non-optical technology which simplifies installation and guarantees functionality.

The preferred embodiment relies on inductance technology. In particular, a tuned coil 76 housed in a watertight enclosure 80 responds to the presence of the bobbin (locking lug 20) on the espagnolette lock (locking rod 18). As the metal bobbin 20 moves closer to the coil 76 the output voltage from the coil 76 changes and this change is used to detect the proximity of the bobbin 20.

To add this sensor functionality to an existing casement window, the existing metal plate (keep) into which the bobbin 20 on the espagnolette 18 fits to lock the window is removed and the electronic sensor assembly 70 fitted in its place. The sensor unit 70 provides an identical keep component 92.

The sensor housing 80 comprises a front cover 84 and a base mounting 82. The housing 80 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) containing the sensor circuit, the sensing coils 72 and a (coin cell) battery 88.

Each coil 72 comprises a cylindrical coil and consists of a specific number of turns of wire onto a ferrite core. The core is manufactured from powder-formed Ferrite and is 1 .5 mm in diameter.

The sensor housing 80 consists of a top moulding (front cover) 84 and a bottom moulding (base mounting) 82. The housing 80 includes O ring seals 90 fitted between the two mouldings 82, 84 to ensure water tightness. A metal plate 92 fits over the end of the housing 80 and is screwed down on to the window frame. The metal plate 92 may be interchangeable and provides retaining slots which may be specific to the window and/or espagnolette system. Accordingly, the present invention can be customised and retro-fitted to existing windows and systems.

The metal plate 92 provides the keep functionality and has slots 94, 96 formed therein. The bobbins 20 on the espagnolette locks 18 engage with the slots 94, 96 in the metal plate 92 to secure the window. There are two parallel slots 94, 96. In one position the bobbins 20 on the espagnolette locks 18 hold (retain) the window securely in the (fully) closed position. In the second position the bobbins 20 on the espagnolette locks 18 hold (retain) the window securely in an open vented position (or partially open position). In the (fully) closed and in the open vented position the window (handle) is rotated to lock the window in position and the handle may further comprise an optional key lock device to further lock and secure the window. The coils 72 detect the proximity of the bobbin from which the sensor system determines whether the window is locked (retained) in a (fully) closed position or a vented (partially open) position or in an unlocked (open) position. The coils 72 are mounted at the end of the bobbin engagement slots 24, 94, 96. The axes of the ferrites onto which the coils are wound run parallel to the axis of the slots.

One coil 72 is required for each slot 24, 94, 96 to sense the presence of the bobbin 20. However, in the figures there are shown four coils 72, but only two will be required per sensor assembly for the reasons defined below.

Two sensor assembly units 70 may be required per window. One to be mounted at the top of the window and one mounted at the bottom. The window may be hinged on the left or right hand side.

If the sensor housings were symmetrical in longitudinal cross section the same housing and metal plate could be used on both left and right hand hinged windows. In this particular instance the metal plate 92 is asymmetrical and so cannot be used on both left and right hand hinged windows. Specifically, the locking slots are not symmetrical positioned about the longitudinal axis of the sensor unit 70. This is purely because this specific embodiment replicates the configuration of an existing espagnolette die cast lock plate which is already manufactured. So the sensor version shown in the figures can be fitted in place of a specific existing die cast plate to create a window with electronic sensor functionality. So, as with this existing configuration, the preferred embodiment requires a left and right hand metal plate 92. These handed plates 92 are fitted over the non-handed plastic sensor housing to create the desired variant. The result of this asymmetry is that the centre line of the slots 24 in the plates 92 on the left and right hand versions is offset by a few millimetres. So to ensure alignment of the sensor coils 72 with the centre line of the slots 24, the figures show alternative mounting position (and retaining devices) for the coils 72 in the housing 70. Accordingly, one pair of coils 72 will be fitted in either the left or right hand positions within the sensor housing 70 depending upon whether the sensor variant is required to fit a left or right hand window opening. There will be other variants that are not asymmetrical and so there will be no need to have alternative positions for the coils in these instances.

On some casement windows the metal locking plates 92 have slots 24, 94, 96 that are spaced further apart than those shown on the plate 92 shown in the figures. On these versions the vent position creates a wider gap between the casement and the fixed frame than on the version shown. In this instance there is enough room within the plastic housing 70 to place one coil 72 between the two slots 24. This single coil 72 can detect the presence of the bobbin 20 in either slot 24. The coil 72 has to be mounted with its axis in the horizontal plane rather than the vertical plane for it to function correctly. In particular, the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical coil will be substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axes of the slot(s) 24, 94, 96. As mentioned above, a full window assembly may have a first sensor unit 70 located towards as lower end of the espagnolette rod and a second sensor unit located towards an upper end of the espagnolette rod. The locking handle simultaneously moves a first locking lug (mushroom) into the slots provided by the keep plate 92 of the upper sensor unit and also a second locking lug (mushroom) into the aligned slots provided by the keep plate of the lower sensor unit. The signal of the window status condition detected by the upper sensor will be conformed and verified by the signal from the lower sensor unit.

In an asymmetrically arranged espagnolette system, the lower sensor unit 70 cannot simply comprise an inverted upper sensor unit since the slots 24, 94, 96 will be misaligned. In this situation, a replacement keep plate 92 will be required as for the handed versions mentioned above. In one embodiment a kit may comprise two sensor units 70 in which one has a left hand keep plate and one has a right hand keep plate. If the window is right handed then the left hand unit 70 (and plate 92) is inverted and is suitable for use with the lower sensor unit. Alternatively, if the window is left handed then the right hand unit 70 (and plate 92) is inverted and is suitable for the lower sensor unit. For example, the kit would only require a single left hand plate and a single right hand plate.

The kit may simply provide a plurality of keep plates and the user can then simply select and fix the relevant keep plate (and sensor 72 position). The sensor position and keep plate 92 will depend upon whether the window is handed, whether the keep plate 92 is to be inverted and used with the lower sensor unit or if it is to remain upright and used with the upper sensor unit.

As mentioned above, the window status sensor system comprises transmission means in order to communicate the status of the window 10 through the local Wi- Fi network. This signal may be communicated to a cloud server and then subsequently to the smartphone of the user. Each sensor is individually coded such that a software application (app) on the smartphone will be able to correctly identify the individual window 10, for example bedroom window. Prior to installation or even after installation, the sensor may be connected to a PC using a USB connection in order to set up or reconfigure the sensor. The sensor unit installed on the window comprises a battery and this battery may be inert until activated.

Overall, the present invention provides a window status sensor system which is solely operated by the movement of the espagnolette rod 18 and not by any other component. This reduces the risk of obtaining a false positive in which a user may inadvertently believe that a window 10 was in the locked position when in fact the actual locking mechanism had not been correctly engaged.

The window status sensor system can be fitted retrospectively. For example, the window status sensor system may be incorporated into a keep 22 which may resemble a standard espagnolette keep. Such a keep 22 could then be used to replace an existing keep in order to convert the casement window 10 into a fully monitored casement window 10. Alternatively, the system could be retrospectively fitted by using the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 14 in which the housing unit 34 is simply fixed within the groove 28 adjacent to the end of the espagnolette rod 18 in order to provide a fully monitored casement window 10.

Claims

1 . A window status sensor system comprising:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

2. A window status sensor system according to Claim 1 in which the actuating component comprises a metal locking element and the sensor component comprises an inductive sensor.

3. A window status sensor system according to Claim 2 in which the sensor is arranged to detect the proximity of the actuating component and the proximity is defined to signal that the window is in a locked condition or in an unlocked condition.

4. A window status sensor system according to Claim 1 in which the actuating component physically moves with the locking rod and the actuating component is arranged to physically move the sensor component between an unlocked condition and a locked condition.

5. A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the locking rod comprises an espagnolette rod.

6. A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the locking rod is arranged, in use, to physically lock a window sash to a window frame.

7. A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the actuating component is located on the locking rod.

8. A window status sensor system according to Claim 5 in which the actuating component comprises a locking lug which is provided on the locking rod and the locking lug is arranged, in use, to physically lock a window sash to a window frame.

9. A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the sensor component comprises a switch.

10. A window status sensor system according to Claim 9 in which the switch comprises an inductance switch.

1 1 . A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the transmission means comprises a Wi-Fi transmitter.

12. A window status sensor system according to any preceding claim in which the window status sensor system comprise a window status sensor unit comprising a keep for engaging a locking element provided on a locking rod.

13. A window status sensor system according to Claim 12 in which the keep comprises a first slot and a second slot which selectively engage the locking element therein.

14. A window status sensor system according to Claim 13 in which the first slot is arranged to retain the window in a first closed position and the second slot is arranged to retain the window in a partially open position.

15. A window status sensor system according to Claim 14 in which the second slot is arranged to retain the window in a vent condition.

16. A window status sensor system according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim 15 in which the sensor component comprises a first sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the first slot and/or the window is in a first closed position and the sensor component comprises a second sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the second slot and/or the window is in a partially open position.

17. A window status sensor system according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim 15 in which the sensor component comprises a single sensor for detecting that the locking element is retained in the first slot and/or window is in a first closed position and the single sensor component also detects that the locking element is retained in the second slot and/or the window is in a partially open position.

18. A window status sensor system according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim 17 in which the first slot and the second slot comprise linear slots which are parallel and spaced apart.

19. A window status sensor system according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim

18 in which the retaining slots in the keep are located asymmetrically on the keep.

20. A window status sensor system according to any one of Claim 13 to Claim

19 in which the window status sensor unit provides a sensor retaining device to retain a sensor in the correct position relative to the slot and in which the window status sensor unit comprise a plurality of sensor retaining devices to retain a sensor in a plurality of positions such that a user can select the position depending upon the position of the slots in the keep.

21 . A window assembly comprising a window and a window status sensor system comprising:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

22. A window assembly according to Claim 21 in which the window status sensor system is arranged to indicate whether a window sash is physically locked to a window frame.

23. A window assembly according to Claim 21 or Claim 22 in which the window status sensor system is arranged to detect a first condition of the window and a second condition of the window in which the first condition comprises the window sash being in an open unlocked condition or a closed unlocked position and the second condition comprises the window being in a closed and locked condition.

24. A window assembly according to Claim 23 in which the window status sensor system is arranged to detect a third condition of the window in which the window is in a partially open but locked position.

25. A window assembly according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 24 in which the locking rod is slidably mounted to a window sash and the locking rod is mounted in a Eurogroove provided by the window sash.

26. A window assembly according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 25 in which the sensor component is located within a housing and the housing comprises power means which comprises a battery, the housing contains the transmission means and in which the housing comprises a self contained unit which includes the sensor component, the transmission means and power means.

27. A window assembly according to Claim 26 in which the housing is arranged, in use, to be mounted adjacent to a longitudinal end of a locking rod.

28. A window assembly according to Claim 26 in which the housing is arranged, in use, to be located adjacent to a keep.

29. A window assembly according to Claim 26 in which the housing is integral with a keep.

30. A window assembly according to any one of Claim 21 to Claim 29 in which the assembly comprises a first window status sensor unit and a second window status sensor unit and wherein the first window status sensor unit locates adjacent to a first longitudinal end of the locking rod and the second window status sensor unit locates adjacent to a second longitudinal end of the locking rod.

31 . A window assembly according to any one of Claim 30 in which the second window status sensor unit is arranged to verify the condition of the window as detected by the first window status sensor unit.

32. A window assembly according to any one of Claim 30 or Claim 31 in which the locking rod comprises a first locking element and a second locking element mounted thereon and in which the first locking element is arranged to be engaged within slots provided by a keep of the first window status sensor unit and the second locking element is arranged to be engaged within slots provided by a keep of the second window status sensor unit.

33. A home automation system comprising at least one window status sensor system, the window status system comprising:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

34. A home automation system according to Claim 33 in which the home automation system comprises a plurality of window status sensor systems and in which each window status sensor system comprises identification means to enable the location of each individual window status sensor system to be identified.

35. A method of providing a window status sensor system, in which the window status sensor system comprises:

a sensor component;

an actuating component; and

signal transmission means,

36. A window status sensor system substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying figures.

37. A window assembly substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying figures.

38. A home automation system substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying figures.

39. A method of providing a window status sensor system substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying figures.