Patent Publication Number: US-2005127689-A1

Title: Door and window securement apparatus and method of use thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS  
      This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/970,111, filed Oct. 21, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/626,992, filed Jul. 24, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/355,994, filed Jan. 30, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/515,968, filed Feb. 29, 2000, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/430,109, filed Oct. 29, 1999. 
    
    
     COPYRIGHT NOTICE  
      A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owners have no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserve all copyrights whatsoever.  
     TECHNICAL FIELD  
      This invention relates to improved door and window securement devices. More particularly this invention relates to door and window barring devices that do not necessarily require that the door, window, jamb or frame molding be defaced, marred or damaged during installation, use or removal therefrom beyond that caused by installing traditional door or fenestration hardware.  
     BACKGROUND ART  
      For centuries various forms of barriers and locks were used to control the opening, closing and locking of hinged doors and windows. For example, during medieval times various sliding, pivoting and dropping bars were used to bar gates, doors and windows.  
      Within our modern era, such barring devices have not greatly changed. The following disclosures teach various mechanisms and devices for barring a modern door: Patterson (U.S. Pat. No. 2,665,935; issued Jan. 12, 1954); O&#39;Neal et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,429,911; issued Feb. 7, 1984); Barnhill (U.S. Pat. No. 4,462,625; issued Jul. 31, 1984); Cole, Jr. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,548,436; issued Oct. 22, 1985); Wicks, Sr. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,601,503; issued Jul. 22, 1986); and Sweet (U.S. Pat. No. 5,340,172; issued Aug. 23, 1994).  
      With nearly every door within the modern world provided with a keyed lock, one could legitimately inquire concerning the need or lack thereof for a bar to block the pivotal movement of a hinged door. The following discussion and the subject matter of this invention address that inquiry.  
      When a person rents a new apartment or condominium, the renter is often unsure of how many persons might have a copy of the key to the renter&#39;s exterior door lock(s). For example, previous tenants, roommates, boyfriends, girlfriends and/or relatives of previous tenants, acquaintances of roommates of previous tenants, building maintenance personnel, building managers and supervisors, landlords, etc., all might have a key to the front door lock and/or back door lock.  
      Upon moving into the apartment or condominium, the building owner or superintendent might agree to replace or re-key the lock. However, there are still numerous persons that might still have access to copies of the key kept by the owner and building superintendent.  
      Renters often do not want to incur the cost of having to re-key their door locks. This is particularly true when the lease agreement requires that the owner and superintendent be given one or more copies of the key(s) to the new locks. Given access to such key duplicates, anyone could easily gain access to the apartment or condominium without the knowledge and permission of the renter.  
      Renters are particularly concerned about potential unauthorized access to their apartment or condominium when the renters are still personally within the dwelling. Occurrences of assault and rape upon young and old tenants alike within their own apartments and condominiums are often reported by the news media. Such reports further intensify the insecurity and concern experienced by renters. This is particularly true for the elderly, disabled, handicapped, all ages of women, and all those who may feel vulnerable or helpless to the unpredictable actions of ruthless criminals.  
      In an attempt to provide a semblance of peace of mind, renters will often purchase and install small casement latches, small surface slide bolts and/or small Dutch-door bolts. Such devices typically each have some form of an additional door plate or bracket and a jamb plate or bracket that are independently screwed into the door and onto the external, frame molding of the door jamb, respectively. Such devices are well known within the art and commonly appear on apartment doors and door frame moldings.  
      Another device commonly used by renters is a small chain lock, which has a small knob attached to one end of a short length of chain that can be moved into or out of a receiving channel of a door plate. The door plate is independently screwed onto the interior face of the door. The receiving channel is found within the door plate. The other end of the chain is secured to a jamb plate that is independently screwed onto the exterior face of the door jamb or door frame molding. Such chain locking device is also well known within the art and frequently appears on apartment doors and door frame moldings.  
      Another device that is readily available in the marketplace is a hasp. The hasp has a small hinge, one side of which is independently screwed onto the door frame molding. A swivel plate or staple, having a swivel eye, is independently secured to the door. The free end of the hinge has a slot through which the swivel eye may pass. When desired, the free end of the hinge may be pivoted into engagement with the swivel eye of the swivel plate. The swivel eye can then be turned into either a locked or unlocked position to provide additional security to the door or permit the door to be opened.  
      The aforementioned devices are largely ineffective in deferring the unwanted entrance of an intruder through a door or window. Furthermore, use of such ineffective devices necessarily requires that the door, door jamb and door frame molding be damaged, marred and defaced beyond simply installing standard, traditional door hardware. Traditional door hardware generally comprises one or more hinges; a door handle with a movable bolt secured to the door and a striker plate secured to the door frame that the bolt engages.  
      Similarly, if such devices are used on a window, the window frame, window frame casing, and window frame molding are damaged, marred and defaced beyond simply installing standard, traditional window hardware. Traditional window hardware generally comprises one or more hinges, a window handle with a movable bolt secured to the window and a striker plate secured to the window frame that the bolt engages.  
      By necessity, such ineffective devices must be independently secured to the door, window, door frame and/or window frame, requiring additional holes and screws to be placed therein. In other words, such defacement is necessary because each of such devices must be independently screwed onto the door and the door frame molding, or onto the window and window frame molding.  
      The type of screws used to attach such devices are usually very short and not very strong. They do not get a very good bite into the wood door, window, frame or casement, Furthermore, the orientation of such screws, with respect to movement of the door or window, permit them to be pulled out quite easily. Consequently, the screws can be very easily ripped or torn from their attachment to the door, window, door frame, window frame and casement.  
      In addition to the lack of safety such devices provide, such devices are usually used much to the chagrin and dismay of building owner(s) who must try to repair the damage after such devices are either accidentally and/or intentionally removed or pulled from their attachment to the door, door frame molding, window or window frame molding.  
      Unauthorized use of such devices by a renter may even violate the terms of the renter&#39;s lease agreement, exposing the renter to premature termination of his or her lease.  
      It is reemphasized that such devices do not provide adequate protection against intrusion by unwanted persons. Such devices can often be rendered ineffective by an intruder using a credit card, a knife blade, a length of wire, or another object to move and disengage these simple locking devices from their engaged or quasi-locked positions.  
      Alternatively, the door can be simply pushed to tear or rip such devices from either or both the door, door frame molding, window and/or window frame molding. For example, such devices are generally and nearly universally ineffective in stopping an intruder that hits the door or window with his or her foot, body or other object. When this occurs, such devices just simply break off or pull out of the door, door frame molding, window and/or window frame molding.  
      Thus far, the discussion has primarily focused upon renters and homeowners. Similar problems exist for the owners and patrons of hotels and motels. A supplemental locking device which is commonly found within newer hotels and motels is somewhat similar to a hasp discussed above. In essence one end of a pivotal arm or rod is secured to the door frame. A receiving bracket is secured to the door. When the door is closed, the pivotal arm or rod can be moved to engage the receiving bracket on the door. In this engaged position, the door can be partially opened with the pivotal arm or rod still being engaged within the receiving bracket. If the door is closed and the pivotal arm or rod is moved away from the door, the locking mechanism is disengaged and the door can be completely opened.  
      If the door is opened and the pivotal arm or rod is moved toward the door opening, when the door is closed, the door will impact against the pivotal arm or rod. Within the hotel and motel industry, patrons and maintenance personnel often use this blocking feature to prevent the door from closing and automatically locking behind them.  
      Here again, such locking mechanism is independently secured to the door and door frame, requiring additional holes to be placed within the door and door frame.  
      Furthermore, the effectiveness of such a locking mechanism is still in question. The old adage states that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Here, as with all of the other preceding locking devices, the weakest link is generally the connection between the screws and the locking device. If the screws can be easily pulled out of the frame or door, the locking device is not an effective deterrent to unauthorized entry.  
      It is believed that the above-listed information and devices, whether taken alone or in combination, neither anticipate nor render obvious the current invention. The foregoing explanation does not constitute an admission that such information or devices are relevant or material to the appended patent claims. Rather, such information and devices relate only to the general field of the current disclosure.  
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION  
      Owners and maintenance personnel of large apartment buildings often face what seems to be a daily task of having to provide tenants with adequate protection and also repair damage caused by such ridiculously ineffective devices as discussed above. The cost to repair doors and door jambs is significantly higher than providing tenants with good locks.  
      Providing tenants with good locks, however, does not stop the use of such ineffective devices from appearing on the doors, door jambs, windows and window jambs of apartments and condominiums previously for the reasons stated above. Consequently, there is a strong need to find a way that tenants can both be safe and secure and feel safe and secure.  
      In essence, the current invention provides effective, independent means for securing a hinged door and/or window against unauthorized opening irrespective of whether or not a keyed lock and tumbler handle locking system is used.  
      Use of the phrase “independent means for securing a hinged door and/or window” in the preceding paragraph is intended to convey that this invention does not rely upon the operability or reliability of a standard key and tumbler lock set as commonly found within a lockable door knob or door handle, or which is found within a deadbolt locking system. Rather, the apparatus of this invention may be used to secure a hinged door and/or window against opening irrespective of whether or not a keyed lock and tumbler door or window handle system are used or even attached to the door or window.  
      The current invention can be used on newly manufactured and hung door frames, door jambs, window frames and window jambs.  
      Alternatively, this invention can be placed upon and used to retrofit preexisting door frames, door jambs, window frames and window jambs to include means or added or supplemental means for securing the door or window against opening.  
      This invention can be used on both interior and exterior doors and windows. This invention is generally used to prevent the door or window from opening inwardly from a closed position.  
      This invention may be secured to a door frame, door jamb, window frame or window jamb using the existing screws and/or screw holes already located within the installed door frame, door jamb, window frame or window jamb. The drilling or creating of undesirable additional holes is not necessarily needed nor required.  
      With this invention properly secured, the door, the door frame, the door jamb, the window, the window frame and the window jamb need not be further defaced, marred or damaged with an entirely new set of screw holes. Rather, the existing screw holes that are already placed therein and used or would normally appear therein can be utilized. More particularly, the same screws or longer screws that would otherwise hold the strike or striker plate in place can also be used to hold the apparatus of this invention in place.  
      If desired, alternatively, this invention could be independently secured to the door frame or window frame. For example, if a user wanted the apparatus of this invention to be positioned at a height above the floor that is different from where the strike or striker plate is located, this invention could be secured independently to the door frame or window frame using its own screws, nails, bolts or welds. Such an attachment, however, is not advised since additional holes would generally have to be drilled into the door frame or window frame for attachment of the apparatus, or welding damage may occur. For example, there could be some situations, such as in the construction of a new hotel with metal door frames, the owner may desire to use this invention in an independent manner, without having it positioned near to the door strike or striker plate.  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the apparatus is secured by using replacement, relatively-long screws that pass through not only the millwork but also into the door or window casement, including the jamb and/or the vertical or upright studs that generally define the doorway or window opening. This type of installation structure gives this invention much greater strength as compared to the aforementioned security devices which use small surface screws that have a length of only about one-half inch to three-quarters of an inch and generally do not extend deeper than the thickness of the thin, outer, door molding.  
      By express design, this invention utilizes the full sheer strength of the inserted screws, rather than simply the pull-out strength of the wood surrounding the shallowly inserted face screws used within the old art.  
      The apparatus of this invention is compact, unobtrusive, efficient, reliable, reusable, durable and rugged. For durability, strength and to match the other hardware on or about the door or window, the apparatus is preferably manufactured from metal, such as from brass, steel, brass-coated steel, chrome-coated steel, or any other desired metal. Of course, the apparatus of this invention, can similarly be manufactured from other materials, such as from plastic, laminated resinous materials, compressed materials, graphite, etc., and have other colors, texture and strength as the circumstances require.  
      This invention is extremely inexpensive and economical to manufacture. Traditional and/or nontraditional manufacturing apparatus and procedures may be used to manufacture the apparatus of this invention without necessarily requiring significant alteration thereto to accomplish the purposes taught herein. For example, the apparatus of this invention may be effectively practiced by using one or more of several different manufacturing techniques or processes, including but not limited to: stamping, milling, welding, shaping, grinding, abrasive-jet machining (AJM), laser-beam machining (LBM), electron-beam machining (EBM), water jet machining, laminating, injection molding, rotational molding, spray molding, vacuum molding, compression molding, expansion molding, pour molding, recess molding, shell molding, plaster molding, lost-wax casting, and other manufacturing processes.  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the apparatus is manufactured using the same machinery and materials as are commonly used to manufacture other door hardware and fenestration hardware and accessories.  
      Once manufactured, the apparatus of this invention can be easily stacked, packaged, transported and stored using a very small amount of space. Consequently, the invention minimizes the packaging size and cargo space required to contain, transport and stock the apparatus. This in turn, reduces transportation, storage and stocking costs.  
      Furthermore, the overall “one-size-fits-all” type of structure that can be used within this invention eliminates the need to manufacture a wide assortment of differently sized apparatus. In turn, suppliers and retailers are not required to warehouse, stock, sort and replenish a wide assortment of differently sized apparatus.  
      The apparatus as taught herein is simple and easy to construct, install, use and remove. Only a minimum amount of manipulation, physical dexterity, skill, knowledge and/or effort are required to construct, assemble and use the apparatus and the processes of this invention.  
      The apparatus of this invention can be easily secured, removed and transferred to different door frames and/or window frames with only a minimum amount of delay, work, difficulty or trouble.  
      If properly installed and used, when removed from a particular door frame, the apparatus of this invention will not leave behind a marred surface upon either the door, the door frame, the door jamb, the window, the window frame, the window jamb and/or the associated molding. Consequently, this invention can be removed and taken with the user as the user moves to successive apartments, dwellings, homes, offices or locations without leaving any damage or apparent evidence of use.  
      In essence, this invention can be reused over and over again by one or more tenants or homeowners for long periods of time. Unless there is a dramatic change in the structure of standard door and window hardware, this invention can be used for an indefinite period of time, i.e., for decades or even longer.  
      Alternatively, the apparatus of this invention may be manufactured for a single use on a particular door frame or window frame and then be disposed of, recycled or thrown away in the garbage when its use is no longer needed. Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the apparatus is manufactured from metal which can and should be recycled if and when the invention is no longer needed.  
      This invention does not require a large number of different, complex accessories or attachments to be used therewith. Rather, the simplicity of this invention invites its repetitive and continued use, thereby saving the financial resources of the building owner, user and world ecology.  
      The simplicity of this invention need not distract from the door or window design or from the appearance of the surroundings door or window jamb, molding, walls and decorations. In other words, this invention preferably is subtle in shape, configuration and appearance, and need not necessarily draw attention to itself.  
      Alternatively, this invention may be specifically designed to draw attention to itself and be used as a fashion statement, or as a marketing and/or promotional item or object. For example, this invention may be used to draw the attention of observers to indicia that is printed upon, applied to or written on the apparatus of this invention. To accomplish this task, the apparatus of this invention may be constructed to have a readily visible surface upon which a message or indicia may be printed, adhered and/or written. The message or indicia borne by the apparatus may include: instructional information for purposes of installation and/or use of the invention; the manufacturer&#39;s trademarks; advertising indicia, such as the name of a particular manufacturer and/or vendor; the manufacturer&#39;s street address, telephone number and/or Internet website address; the product part or model number; and the like.  
      The apparatus of this invention can be manufactured with unique and distinctive shapes and configurations that have nonfunctional and nonutilitarian features therein which serve to indicate a particular source of origin and endear such products to consumers and potential consumers. It is anticipated that consumers and the public at large will begin to associate feelings of security, peace of mind and comfort with the new, unique and distinctive shapes and configurations of the various forms of the apparatus of this invention.  
      It is also anticipated that consumers and potential consumers will come to recognize and associate the brand names and the shapes and/or configurations of this invention as trademarks and trade dress of a particular manufacturer or vendor, thereby, increasing consumer and public recognition and goodwill associated therewith. It is believed that such distinctive shapes, configurations, marks, trade dress, trademarks and brand names which will be used with the apparatus of this invention will become extremely valuable assets.  
      It is anticipated that the cost to manufacture this invention and supply it with relatively long, strong screws that will reach into the door jamb studs or window casements will be relatively negligible in comparison to the wholesale and retail selling price of this invention. The increased security provided by this invention, however, will have both an actual and a perceived greater value added. Consequently, it is believed that this invention could be sold to consumers for a significantly higher sales price than the cost of manufacture, packaging and distribution.  
      If desired, security screws may be used to prevent a would-be intruder from removing or replacing the screws from the strike plate and invention when the door or window is in an open position. Such security screws permit the screw to be firmly inserted into the jamb but there is no purchase within the screw head to permit the screw to be reversed or removed. Such purchase is either ground down or the screw head is manufactured to not include a removal purchase thereon. In other words, such security screws can only turn one way.  
      It is anticipated that the profit margin for the sale of this apparatus will be significantly higher for manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers handling this invention than would be found by selling many other door hardware and fenestration products. Such increased profit margins should make this invention very desirable for wholesalers and retailers to promote and sell with their other door and window hardware.  
      It is further anticipated that the increase in sales of such apparatus will dramatically overshadow the minimal cost to manufacture, package and distribute the apparatus of this invention.  
      This invention may further be constructed to: (a) permit selectively bar the door or window in its fully closed position; (b) prevent unwanted entry by persons on the opposite side of the door or window; (c) prevent the barrier or stop element from being manipulated and removed by someone on the other side or opposite side of the door or window; (d) prevent inadvertent, undesired and/or accidental movement of the barrier from its unlocked position to a position that bars the door or window in a closed position; and (e) selectively permit the barrier to prevent the door or window to be inadvertently or accidentally closed.  
      Please be aware that use of alternative terms throughout this disclosure should be considered as synonyms of one another and not exclusive of one another. In other words, if a list of alternative terms or words are used within this disclosure and/or within the appended claims, use of any of such terms or words may encompass one or more or even all of the other alternative terms, as well and all terms and words covered under the Doctrine Of Equivalents. This concept applies to all alternative terms used throughout this disclosure.  
      Within the preferred embodiment, the apparatus of this invention is used with a strike or striker plate. The strike plate has a bolt opening, latch bore, cutout, receptacle or indentation into which a traditional spring biased latch bolt and/or dead bolt of a door latch may be received. The strike plate may have a leading edge which extends partially outward into the room from the door jamb. The leading edge of the strike plate may be slightly bent or angled to provide a ramp that directs the spring biased latch bolt into the bolt opening.  
      The strike plate also has one or more holes therein through which one or more strike plate screws may be inserted to secure the strike plate to the jamb and/or to the internal upright studs positioned within the adjacent wall.  
      Please note that there can be numerous different sizes of door lock sets and associated strike plates. More particularly, the spacing or distance between the screw holes in such several strike plates can vary dramatically between different manufacturers and door lock designs. Consequently, in order to prevent the need to stockpile a myriad of differently sized apparatus for inventory, it is preferable that one size of the apparatus of this invention fit all different strike plate designs and sizes.  
      More particularly, portions of this invention are constructed of a relatively thin piece of metal, wire, cable, graphite, plastic, fabric, composite material or other rather durable material which defines a first bracket. The first bracket is provided with a first hole, aperture or loop at a proximal end thereof. The first bracket is also provided with a second hole, aperture or loop therein through or into which at least a portion of the barrier or stop element may be selectively inserted and retained to selectively and removably engage the bracket and bar movement of the door or the window when engaged. Such second hole is generally positioned near a distal end of the first bracket.  
      To better understand the installation and operation of this invention, imagine for a moment that the strike plate of the door or window is removed. The thin piece of material that forms the first bracket is juxtaposed against the jamb so that the first hole near the proximal end thereof is superimposed upon one or more of the holes otherwise used to secure the strike plate to the door frame or window frame. At this point, the strike plate screw or screws are not yet inserted into the hole. Rather, the strike plate is placed over top of the thin piece of material or first bracket. In other words, the first bracket is juxtaposed between the strike place and the jamb. The strike plate screws or replacement screws are then inserted through the holes in the strike plate, through one or more of the first holes in the first bracket, and into the jamb using the same holes in the jamb that were originally used to secure the strike plate to the jamb. Thus installed, one or more of the screws pass through at least one hole in the proximal end of the chin piece of material which defined the first bracket.  
      Notwithstanding the foregoing, in connection with appropriate embodiments of the invention, it is possible to supply a replacement strike plate with the inventive apparatus that attaches to the jamb by using new holes. This allows the replacement strike plate to be attached without using the holes that were used to attach the original strike plate. Not only does this allow the use of previously unused material in the jamb, but it also allows the strike plate to be attached using more fasteners. For example, where an original rectangular strike plate attaches to the jamb by means of two screws (one above the bolt hole and one below the bolt hole), a replacement strike plate can provide for attachment to the jamb by means of four screws, one in each of the four corners of a rectangular replacement strike plate.  
      Please note that during this process, the thin piece of material or first bracket is oriented to protrude outwardly into the room from behind the strike plate and, if desired, can be manipulated and/or bent. For example, a portion of the first bracket is generally coplanar with, parallel to, or slightly offset from the jamb and strike plate. When the door or window is closed within the frame or jamb, the aforesaid outward extension or distal end of the first bracket, which is positioned adjacent and very near to the front, leading or outward upright edge of the door or windows, is bent approximately 90 degrees to assume a generally horizontal orientation on the distal end thereof.  
      More particularly, the distal end of the first bracket extends into the room past the jamb and door or window. As explained above, the distal end of the first bracket is provided with at least one aperture, hole, slot or loop through which or into which at least a portion of a barrier or stop element may be selectively inserted to at least partially block or limit the pivotal movement of the door or window relative to the strike plate when the door or window is in a closed position and the barrier or stop element properly engages the first bracket. In other words, the barrier or stop element may be selectively inserted into the second hole or aperture in the first bracket to provide means for securing the door or window in a closed position.  
      The barrier or stop element generally defines a barrier support which has at least a portion thereof that extends from near the jamb into the otherwise path of the door or window when the door or window is about to open. Thus positioned, the barrier or stop element selectively limits or blocks the pivotal movement of the door or window from its initially closed position. When thus positioned, the barrier effectively prevents the door or window from being opened. Even if a handle latch of the door or window is unlocked, appropriate engagement of such rigid object, barrier or stop element is an effective means for preventing the unwanted opening of the door or window.  
      By way of example and not limitation, the barrier or stop element may comprise an insertable rod, bolt, nail, pin or bar; carabineer; clip; spring-loaded clip; snap; snap shackle; shackle; hook; piton; a screwdriver; keyed padlock; combination padlock or nearly any other generally rigid, solid or semi-rigid object that accomplishes the intended objective of selectively and removably engaging the first bracket to prevent the door or window from opening.  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the barrier or stop element generally comprises a T-shaped rod, pin or object having a generally vertical insertion member and a generally horizontal bar member. The insertion member may be selectively inserted into the second hole within the first bracket and be held in place by gravity, a frictional fit and/or by mechanical means, such as by the use of a pivoting stop member, bifurcated feet or resilient springs attached thereto or incorporated therein.  
      As the door or window is urged against a first side of the horizontal bar member, the horizontal bar member pivots about a longitudinal axis of the vertical insertion member. This in turn urges a second side of the horizontal bar member into the adjacent jamb, frame or wall, thus barring further movement of the door or window.  
      In essence, an internal sidewall of the second hole located within the first bracket serves as a fulcrum. The force or energy exerted against the door or window in an attempt to open the door or window is directed against the barrier or stop element, is transmitted through the first bracket, through the screws securing the strike plate and first bracket to the jamb, and subsequently into the jamb and corresponding internal upright studs that in part form the doorway or window opening.  
      Since the screws are inserted and positioned generally perpendicularly or transversely to the direction of force or pull, this invention permits substantially the full shear strength of the strike plate screws, bolts, nails or welds to be used to prevent the opening of the door or window. Such full shear strength is available because such screws, bolts, nails or welds are placed in shear with all or nearly all forces being tangential or perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the screws, bolts or nails, rather than being simply pulled longitudinally out of the jamb.  
      If desired, more than one hole may be provided within the proximal end of the first bracket to accommodate easy passage of one or more screws therethrough. Using a plurality of holes near the proximal end of the first bracket provides a variety of positions through which the screw may pass. By varying through which hole in the proximal end of the first bracket the screw is passed, the position of the distal end and the second hole therein, relative to the wall and jamb, may be adjusted.  
      Thus far, this discussion has been limited to the use of a single first bracket. However, the strength of this invention would be enhanced if two or more brackets were used. For convenience in description, reference will be made to the first bracket described above and to a second bracket placed in a spaced manner therebelow. In other words, this invention may include both a first bracket and a second bracket. The second bracket is positioned in a similar manner as the first bracket. For example, a first screw, nail, pin, rivet, weld, etc., could be used to secure the strike plate and the first bracket in place against the frame and/or jamb. A second screw, nail, pin, rivet, weld, etc., could similarly be used to further secure the strike plate and the second bracket in place against the frame and/or jamb.  
      The second bracket has a second proximal end and a second distal end. The second proximal end may have one or more holes, apertures, loops or orifices therein through which the second screw, nail, pin, rivet or weld is passed. The second distal end is also provided with at least one hole, aperture, loop or orifice therein, through which the generally vertical insertion member may be inserted and selectively retained.  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, a single barrier or stop element is used and the generally vertical insertion member passes through both the hole located within the distal end of the first bracket and the hole located within the distal end of the second bracket. Thus position, the barrier or stop element is prevented from tipping or rotating about the first bracket.  
      Alternatively, the invention may include a first barrier or stop element which is selectively inserted into the hole within and near the distal end of the first bracket, and a second barrier or stop element which is selectively inserted into the hole within and near the distal end of the second bracket.  
      As suggested above, in order to prevent the barrier or stop element from becoming dislodged, the barrier may be provided with bifurcated feet which further urge the barrier into proper alignment and tight engagement with the first bracket and/or the second bracket. The bifurcated feet are intended to engage the first and/or the second bracket and prevent the barrier from becoming inadvertently detached therefrom.  
      Within an alternative embodiment of this invention, the lowermost or distal end of the barrier or stop element may be provided with one or more protrusions that can be pinched together, but which expand outwardly when such pressure is released. Again, such protrusions or pinchable segments are intended to engage the first bracket and/or the second bracket and prevent the barrier from becoming inadvertently detached therefrom.  
      When a user or occupant desires to bar the door or window in a closed position and prevent its opening, the generally vertical portion of the barrier or stop element is passed or slid downwardly through the aligned, collinear holes or apertures located within the outwardly extending first distal end of the first bracket and/or the second distal end of the second bracket. The cantilevered portion of the upper crossbar member of the barrier or stop element passes beyond the edge of the door or window, thereby, protruding into the otherwise path of the door or window. Thus positioned, the barrier or stop element prevents the door or window from being opened.  
      When the user or occupant desires to open the door or window, the barrier or stop element is simply removed from its engagement with the first and/or second brackets.  
      In other embodiments, the present invention can take the general form of a vertically oriented cylindrical shell attached to, or integrally a part of a replacement, strike plate. The cylindrical shell can have a triangular cross-section. The vertically oriented cylindrical shell encloses a circular cylindrical rod whose upper end provides attachment to an S-shaped rod and whose lower end provides means to prevent the rod from being removed from the cylindrical shell. The S-shaped rod has an upper horizontal portion and central vertical portion and a lower horizontal portion. The upper edges of the cylindrical shell has semi-circular indentations that are oriented to receive the upper horizontal portion of the S-shaped rod in either an engaged or a disengaged position. The S-shaped rod is rotatable from the engaged position to the disengaged position, or vice versa.  
      In a related embodiment, the cylindrical shell can have a slot or groove formed in a portion of its side to guide the vertical and rotational positions of the cylindrical rod by means of a projection formed or placed in the cylindrical rod. By this means, the cylindrical rod can be caused to move between the engaged and disengaged positions.  
      In still another related embodiment, the upper end of the cylindrical rod can have an engagement surface that engages the door or window when the cylindrical rod is turned to the engaged position. The projection can include a U-shaped portion that forces the engagement surface into its engaged position. The engagement surface can also be supported from the cylindrical rod without having the U-shaped portion. To facilitate efficiency in the manufacturing process, another embodiment of the invention can have two engagement surfaces, one facing toward the door or window in the engaged position and the other facing away from the door or window in the engaged position. In this embodiment, the upper portion of the cylindrical shell can be U-shaped to retain the projection that supports the two engagement surfaces, preventing the projection from rotating when the cylindrical rod is in the engaged position. The cylindrical rod can be retained in the engaged position by means of outwardly-biased springs that spring outwardly into notches that are formed in the U-shaped portion of the cylindrical shell. Another form of this embodiment allows another U-shaped portion at the bottom of the cylindrical shell, so that the invention can be used in either the left- or right-handed orientation.  
      While normally the cylindrical rod will be retained in a downward, engaged position by the force of gravity, it can also be aided by means of a biasing element such as a coil spring placed around the lower portion of the cylindrical rod when the invention is assembled.  
      In yet another embodiment, the invention can take the form of a length of chain, cord, or such like, having a number of loops formed therein. One end of the chain, cord, or such like is attached to an L-shaped rod that slides vertically into the cylindrical shell. The L-shaped rod can be passed through one of the loops to form a larger loop that can be placed around a projection from the door or window, such as a door knob or a closure handle. In use, this embodiment is placed around the projection and the L-shaped rod is then placed into the cylindrical shell.  
      The L-shaped rod can be retained in the cylindrical shell by various means. In one embodiment, outwardly-biased springs placed near the lower end of the L-shaped rod allow the L-shaped rod to be placed into the cylindrical shell, but must be affirmatively squeezed against the L-shaped rod to allow the L-shaped rod to be pass upwardly through the cylindrical shell. In another embodiment, a toggle near the lower end of the L-shaped rod can be aligned with the lower portion of the L-shaped rod to allow the L-shaped rod to be placed into the cylindrical shell. After passage through the cylindrical shell, the toggle turns cross-wise to the lower portion of the L-shaped rod to prevent the L-shaped rod to pass upwardly through the cylindrical shell unless the toggle is again brought into alignment with the lower portion of the L-shaped rod.  
      In connection with embodiments that rely on the integrity of the strike plate, a plate that covers the strike plate to prevent the strike plate from being detached when the door or window is partially open. Furthermore, the strike plate can be attached to the jamb by means of a first set of screws that are farther from the interior of the room and a second set of screws that are closer to the interior of the room. Since the second set of screws are generally inaccessible from outside the room, while the first set of screws are accessible, the screws in the first set of screws can be larger and longer than the screws in the second set of screws, while the screws in the second set can have a finer thread pitch.  
      It may be important to prevent the S-shaped rod from rotating significantly above horizontal. This prevents the S-shaped rod from inadvertently moving from the disengaged position to the engaged position by being left upwardly against the door or window jamb. It also prevents a prankster from engaging the S-shaped rod from outside the door or window by leaving the S-shaped rod above the horizontal position when exiting the room and then causing the S-shaped rod to fall down to the engaged position by means of a loop of string or wire.  
      The preferred and several alternative embodiments of the apparatus and associated structures of this invention, and the processes for manufacture and use thereof, are further described in greater detail within the following description. Claims and drawings of this Specification. However, to avoid any possible confusion as to the scope of the current invention, each of the following sections, claim language and the drawings of this Specification in their entirety are incorporated within this portion of the Specification by this reference.  
      In addition to the above-identified benefits and advantages of this invention, this invention also overcomes all or nearly all of the aforementioned disadvantages and shortcomings of the devices heretofore known in the applicable art.  
      According to a first aspect, the invention is an apparatus for selectively barring or securing a hinged door or window against being pivoted from a closed or partially closed position to an open position. The door or window has at least one hinge and has a latch bolt or dead bolt adapted to operatively secure the door or window to a jamb when in the closed position. The jamb has a strike plate capable of being secured or mounted to the jamb generally adjacent to the latch bolt or dead bolt when the door or window is in the closed position. The strike plate has a bolt hole, aperture or recess into which a portion of the latch bolt or dead bolt may be received. The strike plate has at least one hole or aperture through which a screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld may pass to secure or mount the strike plate to the jamb.  
      The apparatus includes an elongated first bracket and a barrier or stop element. The elongated first bracket has a proximal end and an opposed distal end. The first bracket has at least one strike plate hole, aperture, loop, orifice or slot positioned near said proximal end thereof through or into which at least a portion of the screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld is capable of passing to secure the proximal end of the first bracket to the jamb. At least a portion of the distal end of the first bracket extends outwardly away from the jamb and the strike plate. The barrier or stop element is capable of selectively and removably engaging the first bracket near the distal end thereof to at least partially block pivotal movement of the door or window relative to the strike plate when the door or window is in the closed or partially closed position and the barrier or stop element operatively engages the first bracket.  
      According to a second aspect, the invention is a method for selectively barring or securing a hinged door or window against being pivoted from a closed or partially closed position to an open position. The door or window has at least one hinge and has a latch bolt or dead bolt adapted to operatively secure the door or window to a jamb when in the closed position. The jamb has a strike plate capable of being secured or mounted to the jamb generally adjacent to the latch bolt or dead bolt when the door or window is in the closed position. The strike plate has a bolt hole, aperture or recess into which a portion of the latch bolt or dead bolt may be received. The strike plate has at least one hole or aperture through which a screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld may pass to secure or mount the strike plate to the jamb.  
      The method includes the steps of (a) connecting an elongated first bracket to the jamb, and (b) selectively and removably engaging a barrier or stop element to said first bracket. The elongated first bracket has a proximal end and an opposed distal end. The first bracket has at least one strike plate hole, aperture, loop, orifice or slot positioned near the proximal end thereof through or into which at least a portion of the screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld is capable of passing to secure the proximal end of the first bracket to the jamb. At least a portion of the distal end of the first bracket extends outwardly away from the jamb and the strike plate. The barrier or stop element is selectively and removably engaged to the first bracket near the distal end thereof to at least partially block pivotal movement of the door or window relative to the strike plate when the door or window is in the closed or partially closed position. The barrier or stop element operatively engages the first bracket.  
      According to a third aspect, the invention is an apparatus for selectively barring or securing a hinged door or window against being pivoted from a closed or partially closed position to an open position. The door or window has at least one hinge and has a latch bolt or dead bolt adapted to operatively secure the door or window to a jamb when in the closed position. The jamb has a strike plate capable of being secured or mounted to the jamb generally adjacent to the latch bolt or dead bolt when the door or window is in the closed position. The strike plate has a bolt hole, aperture or recess into which a portion of the latch bolt or dead bolt may be received. The strike plate has at least one hole or aperture through which a screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld may pass to secure or mount the strike plate to the jamb.  
      The apparatus includes means for connecting an elongated first bracket having a proximal end and an opposed distal end to the jamb and means for selectively and removably engaging a barrier or stop element to the first bracket near the distal end thereof. The first bracket has at least one strike plate hole, aperture, loop, orifice or slot positioned near the proximal end thereof through or into which at least a portion of the screw, bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld is capable of passing to secure the proximal end of the first bracket to the jamb. At least a portion of the distal end of the first bracket extends outwardly away from the jamb and the strike plate. The means for selectively and removably engaging at least partially blocks pivotal movement of the door or window relative to the strike plate when the door or window is in the closed or partially closed position. The barrier or stop element operatively engages the first bracket.  
      The foregoing and other objectives and advantages of this invention will become more readily apparent upon reading the following disclosure and referring to the attached drawings. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  is a schematic and perspective view of a first embodiment of the apparatus of this invention as built in accordance with the teachings of this patent disclosure.  FIG. 1  illustrates the door or window in a locked position by the attachment of the barrier or locking means selectively and removably secured to the first bracket and to the second bracket. The barrier or locking means is illustrated as comprising an downwardly projecting elongated bar that operatively engages and is removably retained by the first bracket and by the second bracket and has a generally horizontal or perpendicular cross-member at an uppermost or proximal end thereof that is capable of engaging the door or window and the jamb. More particularly, the barrier or stop element is inserted generally vertically into a hole or aperture located within the first bracket and/or within the second bracket.  
       FIG. 2  is an enlarged, partial, schematic and perspective view of the first embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, as illustrated within  FIG. 1 , illustrating the selected insertion or removal of the barrier or stop element from engagement with the first bracket and with the second bracket. More particularly,  FIG. 2  illustrates how the barrier or stop element can be selectively and removably moved relative to the strike plate and jamb from a lower engaged position to a raised, retracted and disengaged position. When in its lowered engaged position, the barrier or stop element is retained within barrier holes located within the distal ends of the first bracket and/or second bracket. The barrier or stop element is retained in this position by the force of gravity and a relatively tight engagement or frictional fit with the first and/or second brackets until removed therefrom. When in its raised disengaged position, the barrier or stop element can be removed out of the path of the opening door and stored for later use. The barrier or stop element may be tethered to the door knob or to the jamb by a string, rope, chain, chord, linkage, wire or the like when not in use.  
       FIG. 3  is an enlarged, partial, schematic and perspective view of the first embodiment illustrated within  FIGS. 1 and 2  with the door or the window swung open to better reveal the structure of the strike plate, the first bracket and the-second bracket.  FIG. 3  illustrates the first bracket and the second bracket juxtaposed between and secured to a strike plate and a jamb. The first bracket and second bracket are held in place with the same screws, bolts; nails or welds that hold the strike plate in place on the jamb. Please note that the distal ends of the generally planar material of the first bracket and of the second bracket are each bent or rotated about ninety degrees (90°) from vertical so that the elongated distal end of the barrier or stop element may be inserted generally vertically into the corresponding hole located within the first bracket and/or second bracket, and, thereby, permit engagement and retention of the barrier or stop element therein.  
       FIG. 4  is an enlarged, partial, exploded, schematic and perspective view of the first embodiment illustrated within  FIGS. 1, 2  and  3  with the door or the window swung open to better reveal the structure, placement and orientation of the strike plate, the first bracket and the second bracket relative to the jamb.  FIG. 4  illustrates the first bracket and the second bracket positioned between the strike place and the jamb. The same screws, bolts, nails or welds that hold and secure the strike plate in place also hold and secure the first bracket and the second bracket in place against the jamb. The first bracket and the second bracket comprise elongated lengths of metal segments or ribbon that are bent near a distal end or at a midportion thereof.  
       FIG. 5  is an enlarged, cross-sectional, plan view of the barrier or stop element in its locked position within the first barrier and second barrier, as seen along a plane defined by line V-V in  FIG. 1 .  
       FIG. 6  is an enlarged, cross-sectional, plan view of the barrier or stop element shown in  FIG. 5  with the door or window attempted to be opened and the barrier pivoting within the first barrier and the second barrier and preventing the door or window from being opened.  
       FIG. 7  is an enlarged, schematic and elevational view of a second alternative barrier or stop element having a pivotal member positioned within-a distal end thereof.  
       FIG. 8  is an enlarged, schematic and elevational view of a third alternative barrier or stop element having flexible, expandable protrusions or feet within a distal end thereof.  
       FIG. 9  is an enlarged, schematic and elevational view or a fourth alternative barrier or stop element having flexible, expandable bifurcated feet within a distal end thereof.  
       FIG. 10  is an enlarged, partial, schematic and perspective view of a second embodiment of the apparatus or this invention wherein the first bracket is provided with a first barrier or stop element and the second bracket is provided with a second barrier or stop element. To better reveal the structure of this embodiment of the invention, the figure illustrates the door or the window swung to an open position.  FIG. 10  also illustrates the first barrier or stop element and the second barrier or stop element in a position that selectively and temporarily bars the door or window in an open position. This position may be used in a hotel and/or motel to keep the door open while the occupant moves the luggage into the room. Alternatively, this position may be used by housecleaning personnel while cleaning, restocking and preparing the room for a new occupant.  
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its engaged position in dashed lines.  FIG. 11  also shows upward movement of the apparatus from the engaged position.  
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its unengaged position.  FIG. 12  also shows rotational movement of the apparatus toward the unengaged position and downward movement of the apparatus into the unengaged position.  
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in a partially engaged position.  
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its fully engaged position.  FIG. 14  also shows rotational movement of the apparatus toward the fully engaged position and rotational movement of the barrier or stopping element of the apparatus when the door or window is in a partially open position.  
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 16  is a side view of the fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the loop being formed into a larger loop.  
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the larger loop engaged with a door.  
       FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 21  is a side view of the eighth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the transition of the toggle from an insertion position to an engaged position.  
       FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 23  is a side view of the ninth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing alternative positions of the S-bar in dashed lines.  
       FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the various fasteners used in connection with the tenth embodiment and a tool used to align the strike plate of the tenth embodiment.  
       FIG. 25  is a top view of an eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing angular rotation of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing constrained vertical and rotational movement of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 26A  is a perspective view of the right side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the cylindrical rod nearly fully engaged within the cylindrical shell of the invention, and the possible rotational movement of the S-bar of the invention.  
       FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the cylindrical rod fully engaged within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 30  is a top view of the twelfth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing angular rotation of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the movements of the apparatus to move the apparatus to the unengaged position.  
       FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a tool for installation of various embodiments of the invention.  
       FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the results of using the tool of  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 35  is an exploded perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the movements and actions necessary to movement the apparatus to the engaged position and to lock the apparatus in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 37  is a top view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the actions necessary to movement the apparatus to the engaged position and to unlock the apparatus when it is in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 38  is a phantom perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged and locked position with a right hand door.  
       FIG. 39  is a perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged and locked position with a left hand door.  
       FIG. 40  is a perspective view of the fifteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 41  is a side view of the fifteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 42  is a perspective view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 43  is a first side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 44  is a first elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention,  
       FIG. 45  is a second side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 46  is a second elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 47  is a third side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 48  is a third elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
       FIG. 49  is a first perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in a disengaged position;  
       FIG. 50  is a front view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 51  is a rear view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 52  is a left side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 53  is a right side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 54  is a top view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 55  is a bottom view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 56  is a second perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in an engaged position;  
       FIG. 57  is a front view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 58  is a rear view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 59  is a left side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 60  is a right side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 61  is a top view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 62  is a bottom view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 63  is a first perspective view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in a disengaged position.  
       FIG. 64  is a front view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 65  is a rear view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 66  is a left side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 67  is a right side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 68  is a top view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 69  is a bottom view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position;  
       FIG. 70  is a second perspective view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in an engaged position;  
       FIG. 71  is a front view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 72  is a rear view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 73  is a left side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 74  is a right side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position;  
       FIG. 75  is a top view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position; and  
       FIG. 76  is a bottom view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 77  is a top view of a nineyeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 78  is a top view of a twentieth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 79  is a top view of a twenty-first embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 80  is a top view of a twenty-second embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position. 
    
    
      One should understand that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and the elements are sometimes illustrated by graphic symbols, phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In some instances, details may be omitted which are not necessary for an understanding of the current invention or which render other details difficult to perceive.  
     BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION  
      Referring to the attached drawings, where like numerals indicate like parts, this invention provides additional, alternative and improved apparatus  20  and processes for selectively barring, locking or securing one or more hinged doors  22  and/or windows  24  in a closed or partially closed, secure position. In other words, the apparatus  20  of this invention can be used to at least partially bar, lock and secure a door  22  or window  24  against being pivoted from a closed or partially closed position to an open position. The selective securement of such doors  22  or windows  24  effectively prevents or significantly retards unwanted and unauthorized entry or ingress of intruders through such doors  22  or windows  24 , thereby, increasing the safety, confidence and peace of mind of a tenant, resident or user who deploys or uses the apparatus  20  of this invention.  
       FIG. 1  illustrates the door  22  or window  24  in a closed or partially closed position within a jamb  26 . At least one hinge  28  operatively secures the door  22  or window  24  to the jamb  26 .  
      The door  22  or window  24  also has a latch bolt or dead bolt hidden within the door  22  or window  24  which is operatively associated with a knob  29 . The knob  29  is positioned on an inward face  30  or surface of the door  22  or window  24 . When the door  22  or window  24  assumes the closed position, the latch bolt or dead bolt further secures the door  22  or window  24  to the jamb  26 .  
      As best seen in  FIGS. 3, 4  and  10 , the jamb  26  is provided with a strike plate  31 . The strike plate  31  is capable of being secured or mounted to the jamb  26  generally adjacent to the latch bolt or dead bolt when the door  22  or window  24  is in the closed position. The strike plate  31  has a bolt hole  32 , aperture or recess into which a portion of the latch bolt or dead bolt may be received.  
      The strike plate  31  also has at least one hole or aperture  34  located therein through which a screw  36 , bolt, nail, pin, rivet or weld may pass to secure the strike plate  30  to the jamb  26 .  
      The apparatus  20  of this invention comprises a combination of at least a first bracket  38  and means  40  for selectively barring the door  22  or window  24  in the closed or partially closed position.  
      The first bracket  38  must be capable of being secured or attached to the jamb  26 . For example, the first bracket  38  may be provided, with at least one strike plate hole  46 , aperture, loop, orifice or slot therein which permits the first bracket  38  to be operatively secured to the jamb  26 .  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the first bracket  38  comprises an elongated length of sheet metal that has a proximal end  48  and an opposed distal end  50 . The aforementioned strike plate hole  46  is positioned near the proximal end  48 . The strike plate hole  46  is sized and dimensioned to permit at least a portion of the screw  36  to pass therethrough or therein to secure the proximal end  48  of the first bracket  38  to the jamb  26 .  
      The barring means  40  is secured to, attached to or formed integrally with the first bracket  38 . For example, the barring means  40  may be at least partially defined by: (a) the first bracket  38  having a barrier support portion  42  therein that extends outwardly into the room from the jamb  26 ; and (b) a removable barrier  44  which is capable of selectively and removably engaging and retaining the barrier support portion  42 . In other words, the barrier support portion  42  has means for selectively holding and retaining the barrier  44 .  
      In terms of the preferred embodiment of this invention, at least a portion of the distal end  50  of the first bracket  38  extends outwardly away from the jamb  26 , the strike plate  31  and the face  30  of the door  22  or window  24 .  
      The first bracket  38  has at least one barrier hole  52 , aperture, loop, orifice or slot therein which permits the barrier to be operatively secured to the first bracket. More particularly, at least one barrier hole  52  is positioned near the distal end  50  of the first bracket  38 . The barrier hole  52  is sized and dimensioned to permit at least a portion of the barrier  44  or stop element to be passed therethrough or thereinto. Thus, the barrier  44  may be inserted into and/or passed through the barrier hole  52  and be retained thereby.  
      In other words, the barrier  44  or stop element is capable of selectively and removably engaging the first bracket  38  near the distal end  50  thereof to at least partially block the pivotal movement of the door  22  or window  24  relative to the strike plate  31  when the door  22  or window  24  is in the closed or partially closed position and the barrier  44  operatively engages the first bracket  38 .  
      The barrier  44  or stop element comprises a rigid or semi-rigid object which can be quickly and easily removed from engagement with the first bracket  38 .  
      The barrier  44  may comprise a bar  54 , bolt, padlock, pin, carabineer, clip, snap, snap shackle, shackle, hook, piton or screwdriver which is capable of being at least partially inserted into the first barrier hole  52  to at least partially block the pivotal movement of the door  22  or window  24  relative to the strike plate  31  when the door  22  or window  24  is in the closed or partially closed position.  
      Within the preferred embodiment of this invention, the barrier  44  comprises a generally T-shaped rod, pin or object having a generally horizontal bar member  56  or cross-member and a generally vertical insertion member  58 . The insertion member  58  is capable of being selectively inserted into the barrier hole  52  and thereby engaging the first bracket  38  near the distal end  50  thereof.  
      Once inserted, the barrier  44  is held and retained in place by the forces of gravity, a frictional fit between the sidewalls of the insertion member  58  and the first bracket  38 , or by separate or integrated mechanical means.  
      Within these embodiments of this invention, the generally horizontal bar member  56  of the barrier  44  may serve as a lever or pivotal handle for the apparatus  20 . If desired, the generally horizontal bar member  56  may also be weighted to further urge the barrier  44  into tight engagement with the first bracket  38 .  
      By way of example, the aforementioned mechanical means may comprise at least one pivoting stop member  68  as shown in  FIG. 7 , one or more bifurcated feet  76  as shown within  FIG. 9 , and/or one or more resilient springs  74  as shown in  FIG. 8 , which are operatively attached to or incorporated within barrier  44 .  
      As best seen in  FIG. 7 , the insertion member  58  may comprise an elongated rod  59  or tube having a longitudinal axis  60  passing therethrough. The insertion member  58  has a proximal end  62  and an opposed distal end  64 . The proximal end  62  of the insertion member is attached to the bar member  56 . The bar member  56  is generally oriented in a transverse or tangential manner relative to the longitudinal axis  60  of the insertion member  58 .  
      A slot  66  is located within the distal end  64  of the insertion member  58 . The pivotal stop member  68  is rotatably secured to the distal end  64  of the insertion member  58 . The stop member  68  is at least partially positioned within the slot  66 . The stop member  68  may moved or pivot within a plane that passes through the slot  66  and longitudinal axis  60 . In essence, the stop member  68  may move from a first position  70  that is generally collinear with the longitudinal axis  60  to a second position  72  that is generally transverse or tangential to the longitudinal axis  60 .  
      As best seen within  FIG. 8 , the distal end  64  of the insertion member  58  may be provided with or formed to include one or more resilient springs  74 . The sides of springs  74  may be urged toward a central or longitudinal axis  60  of the insertion member as shown by arrows  75  to permit the distal end  64  to pass through the barrier hole  52  within the first bracket  38 . Once thus inserted, pressure against the springs  74  may be removed. As a result, the springs  74  deflect outwardly to removably and selectively lock the insertion member  58  to the first bracket  38 . When the barrier  44  is to be removed from its engagement with the first bracket  38 , the springs  74  may again be compressed and moved through the barrier hole  52  to free the barrier  44  from the first bracket  38 .  
      In a similar manner, as best shown within  FIG. 9 , the distal end  64  of the insertion member  58  may alternatively be provided with one or more resilient bifurcated feet  76 . The resilient bifurcated feet  76  act very similarly to that of the springs  74 . The bifurcated feet  76  may be compressed and urged toward the longitudinal axis  60  as indicated by arrows  77  to permit the distal end  64  to be inserted into and removed from the barrier hole  52 . However, when such a pressure or compression is removed, the resilient bifurcated feet  76  expand outwardly to securely, selectively and removably retain the barrier  44  within the barrier hole  52 .  
      As best seen within  FIGS. 5 and 6 , when held and retained within the barrier support portion  42 , the barrier is generally urged against or near the face  30  of the door  22  or window  24  and the jamb  26 .  
      In essence, the barrier  44  and the first bracket  38  interact with one another and the screws  36  that hold the strike plate  31  to the jamb  26 , to at least partially bar or limit pivotal movement of the door  22  or window  24  relative to the jamb  26 , when the first bracket  38  is secured to the jamb  26 , the door  22  or window  24  is in the closed or partially closed position and the barrier  44  engages the barrier support portion  42 . As best seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first bracket  38  serves as a fulcrum for the pivotal barrier  44 . Forces directed against one side of the horizontal bar member  56  are transmitted through the first bracket  38  into the opposite side of the horizontal bar member  56  and into the jamb  26 . Consequently, horizontal bar member  56  is capable of at least partially blocking the pivotal movement of the door  22  or window  24  relative to the strike plate  31  when the door  22  or window  24  is in the closed or partially closed position and the barrier  44  operatively engages the first bracket  38 .  
       FIGS. 1, 2 ,  5  and  6  clearly illustrate the door  22  or window  24  in a barred or locked position through the use of the apparatus  20 .  
      Thus far within this portion of patent disclosure focus has been restricted to the use of a single bracket, namely the first bracket  38 . However, as can be clearly seen within  FIGS. 1, 2 ,  3 ,  4  and  10 , within the preferred embodiment of this invention both a first bracket  38  and a second bracket  80  are used.  
      The second bracket  80  may also comprise an elongated length of sheet material in nearly an identical manner as was described above for the first bracket  38 . For example, the second bracket  80  may also have a proximal end  48 ′ and an opposed distal end  50 ′. The second bracket  80  may have at least one strike plate hole  46 ′, aperture, loop, orifice or slot which is positioned near the proximal end  48 ′ thereof. At least a portion of one or more screws  36  may be passed through or into the strike plate hole  46 ′ to secure the proximal end  481  of the second bracket  80  to the jamb  26 .  
      Similarly, at least a portion of the distal end  50 ′ of the second bracket  80  may extend outwardly away from the jamb  26 , the strike plate  31 , and the face  30  of the door  22  or window  24 .  
      The barrier  44  may also selectively and removably engage the second bracket  80  near the distal end  50 ′ thereof in a nearly identical manner as the barrier  44  engages the first bracket  38 . For example, the second bracket may also be provided with at least one barrier hole  52 ′, aperture, loop, orifice or slot therein. Such barrier hole  52 ′ is preferably positioned near the distal end  50 ′ of the second bracket  80 .  
      The barrier hole  52 ′ is sized and dimensioned to permit at least a portion of the barrier  44  to selectively and removably pass therethrough or be inserted therein and be retained therein.  
      As best seen within  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the only real difference between the first bracket  38  and the second bracket  80  is that they are secured beneath the strike place  31  with different and spaced apart screws  36  and  36 ′.  
       FIG. 10  illustrates how a first barrier  44  can be inserted and retained within the first bracket  38 , and how a second barrier  44 ′ can be inserted and retained within the second bracket  80 .  
       FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate how a single barrier  44  can be inserted into the barrier holes  52  and  52 ′ of the first bracket  38  and the second bracket  80 , respectively. This embodiment is particularly beneficial because use of both the first bracket  38  and the second bracket  80  provide added stability and rigidity to for the barrier  44 . Not only is the cross-sectional surface of the available brackets doubled, but the barrier  44  is held in a more rigid and predictable upright manner, and is prevented from rotating or pivoting about a longitudinal axis of either the first bracket  38  or the second bracket  80 .  
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its engaged position in dashed lines.  FIG. 11  also shows upward movement of the apparatus from the engaged position. The apparatus  20  is shown as arranged for operation with a right-hand door, i.e., a door that is hinged on the left and opens inwardly.  
      The apparatus  20  includes a bracket  100 , a vertical cylinder  102 , and an S-bar  104 . The bracket  100  receives the vertical cylinder  102  in a vertical shell  105  that is at an end of the first bracket  38 . The upper end of the vertical cylinder  102  extends above the first bracket  38 , and the lower end of the vertical cylinder  102  extends below the first bracket  38 . The S-bar  104  is made of a metal or other material that is hardened to prevent severing it by means of a saw, torch, bolt-cutter, or the like. The S-bar  104  is attached to the upper end of the vertical cylinder  102  by passing through a hole in the upper end of the vertical cylinder  102 . The S-bar  104  has a head  108  on its upper end to prevent the S-bar  104  from disengaging from the vertical cylinder  102 . This allows the S-bar  104  to swing about a horizontal axis defined by the hole in the upper end of the vertical cylinder  102 . The vertical cylinder  102  rotates about the vertical axis of the vertical shell  105 . The lower end of the vertical cylinder  102  includes a head  106  that prevents the vertical cylinder  102  from disengaging from the vertical shell  105  in an upward direction. In the engaged position, the apparatus  20  is rotated to the left, so that the engagement mechanism  44  on the lower end of the S-bar  104  points to the left. The engagement mechanism  44  can include a covering or coating that prevents marring of the door  22 . The upper portion of the S-bar  104  is lowered against the upper margins  110  of the vertical cylinder  102 . More specifically the upper margins  110  include semi-circular notches  112  which meet the contour of the S-bar  104  to make it difficult for the vertical cylinder  102  to rotate away from the engaged position. The middle portion of the S-bar  104  is parallel to the surface of the door  22  when the door  22  is closed and swings out as far as horizontal with the door  22  when the door  22  is opened.  
      It can be advantageous for the upper and lower edges of the vertical shell  105  to respectively be tapered downward and upward to reduce or eliminate the chance that the extending vertical shell  105  will catch clothing and the like.  
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its disengaged position.  FIG. 12  also shows rotational movement of the apparatus toward the disengaged position and downward movement of the apparatus into the disengaged position. In the disengaged position the lower end of the S-bar  104  is moved away from the trajectory of the door  22  when it is opened, thus allowing the door  22  to swing fully open. In this configuration, the semi-circular notches  112  which meet the contour of the S-bar  104  make it difficult for the vertical cylinder  102  to rotate away from the disengaged position.  
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in a partially engaged position. The apparatus  20  shown in  FIG. 13  is a mirror image that shown in  FIGS. 11-12  except that the vertical cylinder  102  has a protrusion  110  that extends horizontally outward from the vertical cylinder  102 . The protrusion  110  engages a slot  112  that is formed in the vertical shell  105 . Initially, the protrusion  110  falls vertically to the bottom of the slot  112 , where it stays until the door  22  is pushed open against the engagement mechanism  44  of the lower end of the S-bar  104 . When the door  22  is pushed against the lower end of the S-bar  104 , the protrusion  110  moves horizontally to the lower end of the slot  112 . The details of the upper end of the vertical cylinder  102  are provided in the discussion of  FIGS. 22 and 23 .  
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in its fully engaged position.  FIG. 14  also shows rotational movement of the apparatus toward the fully engaged position and rotational movement of the barrier or stopping element of the apparatus when the door or window is in a partially open position. When the door  22  is pushed against the lower end of the S-bar  104 , the protrusion  110  moves horizontally to the lower end of the slot  112 .  
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention. In this embodiment, the apparatus  20  includes a cable  120  (or other thin flexible string-like element). The cable  120  includes two or more loops  122  and an end  124  which is tied through an end  126  in an L-bar  128 .  
       FIG. 16  is a side view of the fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the loop being formed into a larger loop. The larger loop  130  is formed when the L-bar  128  is passed through one of the smaller loops  122 .  
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the fifth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the larger loop engaged with a door.  
       FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention. In this embodiment, a cover sheet  130 , made from a relatively thin sheet of metal, is formed to conform to the shape of the bracket  38  in order to cover the screws  36  that are screwed into the holes  34  in the strike plate  31 . The cover sheet  130  prevents any of the screws  36  from being untightened or unscrewed by an outside party who is able to open the door  22  sufficiently. The cover sheet  130  can be engaged to the strike plate  31  by means of curved margins formed around the periphery of the strike plate  31  to prevent the cover sheet  103  from being pried away from the strike plate  31 . The cover sheet  130  is retained against the bracket  38  by the screws  132 .  
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention,  FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 21  is a side view of the eighth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the transition of the toggle from an insertion position to an engaged position. In those embodiments that require use of a vertical cylinder  102  that is to be retained in the vertical shell  105 , a spring  132  or a toggle  134  can be formed in the lower end of the vertical cylinder  102 . The spring  132  can include two outwardly-biased spring steel leafs whose lower ends are fastened diametrically oppositely to the lower end of the vertical cylinder  102 . In this configuration, the vertical cylinder  102  is placed into the vertical shell  105  which compresses the steel leafs until they pass completely through the vertical cylinder  102 . At this point, the two leafs spring outwardly, engaging the vertical cylinder  102  with the vertical shell  105 .  
      In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 20-21 , the toggle  134  is aligned with the vertical cylinder  102  while it is being passed through the vertical shell  105 . After the vertical cylinder  102  passes through the vertical shell  105 , the toggle  134  becomes perpendicular to the vertical cylinder  102 , preventing the vertical cylinder  102  from disengaging from the vertical shell  105 .  
       FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 23  is a side view of the ninth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing alternative positions of the S-bar in dashed lines. In this embodiment, the vertical cylinder  102  includes a projection  140  which follows a slot in its matching vertical shell  105 . The projection  140  can be made from a hardened material and be press-fit into the vertical cylinder  102  (or in other ways that are known to those skilled in the relevant arts). The upper end of the vertical cylinder  102  is formed in the shape of a doughnut  142 , which receives the upper horizontal portion of the S-bar  104 . The doughnut portion includes a cam segment  144 , and the upper horizontal portion of the S-bar  104  includes a projection  146  that rotates with the S-bar  104 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , the S-bar  104  is rotated too far, the projection  146  impinges against the cam segment  144 , stopping the rotation. If the rotation of the S-bar  104  is not limited (to, say, an angle that is no higher than approximately horizontal), it is possible for the apparatus  20  to engage the door  22  when it is not desired. For example, if it were possible to leave the S-bar  104  in the disengaged position upward against the jamb when an occupant leaves the room, the apparatus  20  to become engaged. Alternatively, a party could play a prank by deliberately causing the apparatus to become engaged when no one is located in the room. Limiting the angle of travel of the S-bar  104  to no more than slightly above horizontal will prevent this.  
       FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the various fasteners used in connection with the tenth embodiment and a tool used to align the strike plate of the tenth embodiment. As discussed above, it is desirable to attach the bracket  38  to the jamb  26  using long screws or other fasteners, so that the bracket  38  is held by the shear strength of the fasteners. It is particularly advantageous to have longer, larger screws placed in the bracket  38  where it is most likely that an outsider would attempt to remove them. Fasteners that are less likely to be accessed by an outsider can be shorter, although it is desirable that they have finer threads than the longer fasteners.  
      The bracket  38  can be properly placed where the strike plate was previously located by means of the alignment tool  150 . The alignment tool  150  is used to hold or mark the location of the innermost limit of the previous strike plate. Using this mark assures that the portion of the hole  32  that the door bolt bears against is exactly where the corresponding portion of the previous strike plate was located.  
       FIG. 25  is a top view of an eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing angular rotation of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing constrained vertical and rotational movement of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention. As shown in  FIG. 25 , the extreme of travel of the slot  112  when the apparatus  20  is in the disengaged position is designated by S, the angular location of the beginning portion of the slot  112  is designated by B, and the engaged position is designated by E.  
       FIG. 26A  is a perspective view of the right side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention. From this view it is clear that the projection  140  cannot be cut or removed by an individual who is outside of the door or window  22 .  
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the cylindrical rod nearly fully engaged within the cylindrical shell of the invention, and the possible rotational movement of the S-bar of the invention.  
       FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the left side of the eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the cylindrical rod fully engaged within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged position. The apparatus  20  includes the vertical shell  105 , the vertical cylinder  102 , and engagement means  150 . The vertical shell  105  has a slot  152  which guides the vertical cylinder  150  by means of the projection  140 . The vertical cylinder  150  includes an arm  154 ′ that carries a projection surface  156  for contact with the door  22 . When the apparatus  20  is in the engaged position, the projection surface  156  is held against the door because of the engagement of the projection  140  in the slot  152 .  
       FIG. 30  is a top view of the twelfth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing angular rotation of the cylindrical rod within the cylindrical shell of the invention.  
       FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged position. The apparatus  20  includes the vertical shell  105 , the vertical cylinder  102 , and engagement means  150 . The vertical shell  105  has a slot  152  which guides the vertical cylinder  150  by means of the projection  140 . The vertical cylinder  150  includes a U-shaped arm  154  that carries a projection surface  156  for contact with the door  22 . When the apparatus  20  is in the engaged position, the projection surface  156  is held against the door because of the engagement of the projection  140  in the slot  152 . The vertical cylinder  102  is held in the engaged position by the action of the compressed coil spring  160 .  
       FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the upward and counter-clockwise movement of the apparatus needed to move the apparatus to the disengaged position. The vertical cylinder  102  is held in the disengaged position by the action of the compressed coil spring  160 .  
       FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a tool for installation of various embodiments of the invention. The tool  162  is used to make an appropriate cut into a molding  164  so that the vertical cylinder  102  can be accommodated. The tool  162  essentially takes the form of three perpendicular chisels  166 ,  168  and  170 , and a guide  172 . The tool  162  is guided into the slot left by the strike plate forehand (which has been removed beforehand). The chisels parts of the tool  162  are then driven against the molding  164  to reduce the chance of splitting and to make an accurate cut.  
       FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the results of using the tool of  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 35  is an exploded perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention. The apparatus  20  includes the vertical shell  105 , the vertical cylinder  102 , and engagement means  150 . The vertical shell  105  includes an upper U-channel  170  portion and a lower U-channel portion  172 . The two U-channel portions are mirror images, allowing the same apparatus  20  can be used with left- and right-handed doors. The engagement means  150  includes a first projection portion  174  that projects outwardly from the vertical cylinder  102 . The first projection portion  174  supports two oppositely directed contact surfaces  176  and  176 A that are intended for contact with the surface of the door; The first projection portion  174  also supports a second projection portion  178 . The ends of two leaf springs  180  are attached to the vertical cylinder  102  and reach toward and contact the second projection portion  178 . As would be understood by those in the relevant arts, the biased springs  180  can be squeezed together to allow the engagement means  150  to pass through the slot  152  in the U-shaped portion  170 . Releasing the biased springs  180  then captures the engagement means  150  in the vertical cylinder. When the apparatus  20  is in the engaged position, the projection surface  156  is held against the door. The vertical cylinder  102  is held in position by a bottom cap  184 . If desired, the upper and lower U-channel portions  170  and  172  can be tapered or corrugated to strengthen them.  
       FIG. 36  is a perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the movements and actions necessary to move the apparatus from the disengaged position to the engaged position and to lock the apparatus in the engaged position. To move the apparatus  20  from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the vertical cylinder  102  should first be rotated clockwise (as seen from above). Next, the springs  180  are squeezed together sufficiently so that they will pass through the slot  152  until they engage the notches  186 . The apparatus  20  is now in the engaged position. To revert the apparatus  20  to the disengaged position, the above operations should be performed in the opposite order.  
       FIG. 37  is a top view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the squeezing action necessary to move the apparatus to the engaged position and to unlock the apparatus when it is in the engaged position.  
       FIG. 38  is a phantom perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged and locked position with a right hand door.  
       FIG. 39  is a perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the apparatus in the engaged and locked position with a left hand door.  
       FIG. 40  is a perspective view of the fifteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 41  is a side view of the fifteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention.  
      The apparatus  20  includes a vertical shell  105  that is part of a strike plate as shown in  FIG. 26 . The apparatus  20  also includes a door engagement pin  200 . The vertical shell  105  has an entry hole  202  and an exit hole  204  diametrically opposite, but below, the entry hole  202 . A first end  206  of the engagement pin  200  is tapered to pass first through the entry hole  202  and then the exit hole  204  when the door engagement pin  200  is put in the engaged position. However, the taper of the engagement pin  200  is such that the engagement pin  200  stops with the second end  208  adjacent the door  22 . The second end  208  of the door engagement pin  200  includes a door pad  210  that is placed near or against the door  22  when the door engagement pin  200  is in the engaged position. The door pad  210  may include a covering or coating that prevents marring the door  22  when the door engagement pin  200  is in the engaged position.  
      The door engagement pin  200  can be stored vertically in the vertical shell  105  when the apparatus  20  is not in the engaged position. Also and alternatively, the door engagement pin  200  can be attached to the vertical shell  105  by means of a cord or chain  212 . In a further embodiment, the apparatus  20  can include additional entry and exit holes  202 ′ and  204 ′ placed at the lower end of the vertical shell  105 . This enables the apparatus  20  to be installed in a mirror-image position relative to the door  22  and jamb  26 . If desired, the exit holes  202  and  202 ′ can be merged into a single exit hole.  
       FIG. 42  is a perspective view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention,  FIG. 43  is a first side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 44  is a first elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention. The apparatus  220  includes the cylindrical shell  222 , a swinging bar  224 , and securement  226 . The cylindrical shell  222  is part of a plate  228  that also includes a strike plate, as discussed previously. The swinging bar  224  has a slotted portion  230  and a vertical bar  232  that passes through the cylindrical shell  222 . The vertical bar  232  can move up and down within the cylindrical shell  222 , but is restrained in its vertical motion by a restriction member  234 , such as a flange, spring and/or toggle as described previously. The securement  226  includes a plate  236 , a trough  238  attached to the plate  236 , and an elevated button  240  attached to the trough  238  through a shaft  242 .  
      The apparatus  220  is engaged by lifting and swinging the swinging bar  224  from its unsecured position (phantom lines) to its secured position, where the gap  244  in the swinging bar  224  is placed over the elevated button  240  and lowered into the trough  238 . In this position the elevated button  240  is parallel to the gap  244 , allowing the swinging bar  224  to rest in the trough  238 .  
      The trough  238  is located aligned with the edge of the door  22  to prevent a thin card, such as a credit card from being moved upward within the space between the door  22  and the jamb  26  in order to establish where the swinging bar  224  is located and allowing the swinging bar  224  to be lifted from its secured position within the trough  238 .  
       FIG. 45  is a second side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 46  is a second elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the configuration of the apparatus  220  as the door  22  is just beginning to open. In this configuration, the button  240  is no longer parallel to the gap  224 , preventing the swinging bar  224  from being lifted back over the button  240 . The trough  238  has tapered ends  250  which begin to lift the swinging bar  220  from its rest position in the trough  238  as the door  22  begins to open.  
       FIG. 47  is a third side view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, and  FIG. 48  is a third elevation view of the sixteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention, showing the configuration of the apparatus  220  as the door  22  is more fully open. In this configuration, the swinging bar  224  fully lifted above the bottom of the trough  238 , but is still captured below the button  240 .  
       FIG. 49  is a first perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in a disengaged position, and  FIG. 50  is a front view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  FIG. 51  is a rear view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 52  is a left side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  FIG. 53  is a right side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  FIG. 54  is a top view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 55  is a bottom view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  
       FIG. 56  is a second perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in an engaged position, and  FIG. 57  is a front view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 58  is a rear view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position, and  FIG. 59  is a left side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 60  is a right side elevational view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position,  FIG. 61  is a top view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 62  is a bottom view of the seventeenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
      The apparatus  20  includes a vertical shell  262 , and swinging arm  264 , and a securement  266 . The vertical shell  262  is part of a plate  268  that also includes a strike plate, as discussed previously. The swinging arm  264  has a vertical cylinder  270 , an extension  272 , and a contact pad  274 . The vertical cylinder  270  moves vertically within the vertical shell  262 . The vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  270  is limited in the upper direction by an extension (such as a washer)  276 , which is held in place by a fastener  278 , such as a bolt with a conventional Allen drive portion. In the unsecured mode, the vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  270  is limited in the lower direction by the interaction of the swinging arm  264  with the upper portion of the vertical shell  262 . In the secured mode, the vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  270  is limited in the lower direction by the interaction of the swinging arm  264  with the securement  266 .  
      The extension  272  includes a first projection portion  282  and a second projection portion  284 . The first projection portion  282  is connected between the upper portion of the vertical cylinder  270  and the second projection portion  284 . The second projection portion  282  is connected between the first projection portion  282  and the contact pad  274 . The contact pad  274  is preferably made from a material that will not scratch the surface of the door (not shown), such as Teflon®. The securement  266  includes a slot  280  that receives the extension  272 .  
      If desired, the plate  268  can be made from a sheet of material, such as sheet metal that has been bent over on itself, as will be known by those skilled in the relevant arts. The plate  268  includes a flange  290 . The flange  290  can be beveled so that it can be forced or otherwise forced under a molding. Also, if desired, the swinging arm  264  can be made from a sheet of material, such as sheet metal that has been bent over on itself, as will be known by those skilled in the relevant arts, to form a laminated structure. If desired, the first projection portion  282  can be provided with flanges  286 . The flanges  286  considerably strengthen the swinging arm  264 . The contact pad  274  is connected to the second projection portion  282  by conventional means, such as a sliding engagement between the contact pad  274  and the second projection portion  284 .  
      The apparatus  20  is engaged by lifting and swinging the swinging bar  224  from its unsecured position to its secured position where the first projection portion  282  falls into the slot  280 . The apparatus  20  is disengaged by lifting and swinging the swinging bar  224  from its secured position to its unsecured position, lifting the first projection portion  282  out of the slot  280  and lowering the swinging bar  224  on the inclined surface  288 .  
       FIG. 63  is a first perspective view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in a disengaged position.  FIG. 64  is a front view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 65  is a rear view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position. Further,  FIG. 66  is a left side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position,  FIG. 67  is a right side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  FIG. 68  is a top view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 69  is a bottom view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position.  
       FIG. 70  is a second perspective view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in an engaged position.  FIG. 71  is a front view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 72  is a rear view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 73  is a left side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 74  is a right side elevational view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  FIG. 75  is a top view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the disengaged position, and  FIG. 76  is a bottom view of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position.  
      The apparatus  20  includes a vertical shell  322 , a swinging arm  324 , and a securement  326 . The vertical shell  322  is part of a plate  328  that also includes a strike plate, as discussed previously. The swinging arm  324  has a vertical cylinder  330 , an extension  332 , and a contact pad  334 . The vertical cylinder  330  moves vertically within the vertical shell  322 . The vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  330  is limited in the upper direction by an extension (such as a washer)  336 , which is held in place by a fastener  338 , such as a bolt with a conventional Philips drive portion. In the unsecured mode, the vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  330  is limited in the lower direction by the interaction of the swinging arm  334  with the upper portion of the vertical shell  322 . In the secured mode, the vertical motion of the vertical cylinder  330  is limited in the lower direction by the interaction of the swinging arm  334  with the securement  266 .  
      The extension  332  includes a first projection portion  342 . The first projection portion  342  is connected between the upper portion of the vertical cylinder  330  and the contact pad  334 . The contact pad  334  is preferably made from a material that will not scratch the surface of the door (not shown), such as a rubbery material or Teflon®. The securement  326  includes a slot  340  that receives the extension  342 .  
      If desired, the plate  328  can be made from a sheet of material, such as sheet metal that has been bent over on itself, as will be known by those skilled in the relevant arts. However, preferably, the plate  328  is an integral piece of material, such as an appropriate choice of stainless steel, that has been formed by machining or other methods known to those skilled in the materials forming arts. Also, if desired, the swinging arm  324  can be made from a sheet of material, such as sheet metal that has been bent over on itself, as will be known by those skilled in the relevant arts, to form a laminated structure. However, preferably, the swinging arm  324  is also an integral piece of material, such as an appropriate choice of stainless steel, that has been formed by machining or other methods known to those skilled in the materials forming arts. The contact pad  334  is connected to the first projection portion  332  by conventional means, such as a rivet  335  or other fastener that passes through the first projection portion  332  into the contact pad  334 .  
      The apparatus  20  is engaged by lifting and swinging the swinging bar  324  from its unsecured position to its secured position where the first projection portion  332  falls into the slot  340 . The apparatus  20  is disengaged by lifting and swinging the swinging bar  324  from its secured position to its unsecured position, lifting the first projection portion  332  out of the slot  340  and lowering the swinging bar  324  into the slot  350 .  
       FIG. 77  is a top view of a nineteenth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged or blocking position. The apparatus  20  is shown as a modified version of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus. The window or door  400  pivots about a pivot point  402  and opens outwardly from the interior space  404 . The interior space  404  is, in part, defined by the window or door  400  and a nearby member  406 . As shown in  FIG. 77 , the nearby member  406  is perpendicular to the window or door  400  and has one of its edges  408  visible as seen when looking at the window or door  400  straight on. In this case the apparatus  20  is modified so as to have its bracket  410  attachable to the edge  408  by means that are known to those skilled in the relevant arts and to bear against the window or door  400  to keep the window or door  400  closed. In this configuration, the apparatus  20  can be used to keep the openable portion  412  of the window or door  20  from opening, unless desired, in which case the apparatus can be moved to the non-blocking position.  
       FIG. 78  is a top view of a twentieth embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position. The apparatus  20  is shown as a modified version of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus. The window or door  400  pivots about a pivot point  402  and opens outwardly from the interior space  404 . The interior space  404  is, in part, defined by the window or door  400  and a nearby member  406 ′. As shown in  FIG. 78 , the nearby member  406 ′ is parallel to the window or door  400  and has one of its surfaces  408 ′ visible as seen when looking at the window or door  400  straight on. In this case the apparatus  20  is modified so as to have its bracket  410 ′ attachable to the window or door  400  by means that are known to those skilled in the relevant arts and to bear against the surface  408 ′ to keep the window or door  400  closed. In this configuration, the apparatus  20  can be used to keep the openable portion  412  of the window or door  20  from opening, unless desired, in which case the apparatus can be moved to the non-blocking position.  
       FIG. 79  is a top view of a twenty-first embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position. The apparatus  20  is shown as a modified version of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus. The window or door  400  pivots about a pivot point  402  and opens inwardly into the interior space  404 . The interior space  404  is, in part, defined by the window or door  400  and a nearby member  406 . As shown in  FIG. 79 , the nearby member  406  is perpendicular to the window or door  400  and has one of its edges  408  visible as seen when looking at the window or door  400  straight on. In this case the apparatus  20  is modified so as to have its bracket  410 ′ attachable to the window or door  400  by means that are known to those skilled in the relevant arts and to bear against the edge  408  to keep the window or door  400  closed. In this configuration, the apparatus  20  can be used to keep the openable portion  412  of the window or door  20  from opening, unless desired, in which case the apparatus can be moved to the non-blocking position.  
       FIG. 80  is a top view of a twenty-second embodiment of the apparatus of this invention showing my new design in the engaged position. The apparatus  20  is shown as a modified version of the eighteenth embodiment of the apparatus. The window or door  400  pivots about a pivot point  402  and opens inwardly into the interior space  404 . The interior space  404  is, in part, defined by the window or door  400  and a nearby member  406 ′. As shown in  FIG. 80 , the nearby member  406 ′ is parallel to the window or door  400  and has one of its surfaces  408 ′ visible as seen when looking at the window or door  400  straight on. In this case the apparatus  20  is modified so as to have its bracket  410 ′ attachable to the surface  408 ′ by means that are known to those skilled in the relevant arts and to bear against the window or door  400  to keep the window or door  400  closed. In this configuration, the apparatus  20  can be used to keep the openable portion  412  of the window or door  20  from opening, unless desired, in which case the apparatus can be moved to the non-blocking position.  
       FIGS. 77-80  illustrate that the invention can be used in many applications other than conventional doors and windows, such as gates, barn and storage shed doors and many other applications that will be understood by those skilled in the relevant arts.  
      One should understand that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and the elements are sometimes illustrated by graphic symbols, phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In some instances, details may be omitted which are not necessary for an understanding of the current invention or which render other details difficult to perceive.  
      If desired, the apparatus  20  of this invention may have any desired shape or configuration. By way or example, but not by limitation, the first bracket  38  and the second bracket  80  may alternatively have: a triangular shape; an oval shape, a round shape; a hexagonal shape; a bell shape; the shape of a cartoon character or animal; the shape of person or inanimate object; or any other desired shape.  
      If desired, the apparatus  20  of this invention may be custom designed and manufactured to personalize the apparatus  20  to fit a particular need. Consequently, the apparatus of this invention may be given as a gift.  
      The apparatus  20  may also be manufactured from a wide variety of different materials, such as from metal, plastic, mesh material, durable fabric, graphite, wire, a combination of wires, composite material or any other desired material.  
      The apparatus  20  of this invention may also be manufactured from materials that are opaque, transparent, translucent or even that glow-in-the-dark. If the apparatus  20  is manufactured from a material that glows in the dark, or if a glow-in-the-dark material is applied to, incorporated into or painted onto the apparatus  20 , it will be easier for the user to locate and remove the barrier  44  therefrom when this becomes necessary at dark periods or in the middle or the night.  
      The means and construction disclosed herein are by way or example and comprise primarily the preferred and several alternative forms of putting the invention into effect.  
      Although the drawings depict the preferred and several alternative embodiments of this invention, other embodiments are described within the preceding and following text. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed apparatus may have a wide variety of different designs, shapes and configurations. Additionally, persons skilled in the art to which this invention pertains might consider the foregoing teachings in making various modifications, other embodiments and alternative forms of this invention.  
      It is, therefore, to be understood that the claimed invention is not limited to the particular embodiments or specific features shown herein. To the contrary, the inventor claims the invention in all of its various forms, including all alternatives, modifications, equivalents and alternative embodiments which fall within the legitimate and valid scope of the appended claims, appropriately interpreted under the Doctrine Of Equivalents.  
     INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY  
      This invention may be used within any apartment, dwelling, residence, home, hotel room, motel room, meeting nail, convention center, school, university, church, bank, office building, business; factory, retail store, restaurant, bar, tavern, ocean liner, ship, yacht, boat, sailboat, submarine, airplane cockpit and/or within any other building, vehicle or vessel, wherein the occupant desires to bar a pivotal door or window against unauthorized opening or entry. It is anticipated that other applications and/or uses for the apparatus of this invention could easily be found.