Patent Publication Number: US-11657687-B2

Title: Smart security barrier sensor

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     I. Field of Use 
     The present application relates to the field of home security. More specifically, the present application relates to a smart security sensor that helps reduce the occurrence of false alarms while also allowing barriers, such as doors and windows, to be opened while continuing to be monitored. 
     II. Description of the Related Art 
     Security systems for homes and businesses have been around for many years. Often, these systems make use of barrier sensors, such as door and window sensors, motion detectors, sound detectors, etc. Door and window alarms typically comprise two distinct parts: a magnet and a reed switch/transmitter assembly. The reed switch/transmitter assembly is typically installed onto a stationary surface, such as a door or window frame, while the magnet is mounted to a movable portion of a door or window. When the door or window is closed, the magnet and reed switch are in close proximity to one another, maintaining the reed switch in a first state indicative of a “no alarm” condition. If the door or window is opened, proximity is lost between the magnet and the reed switch, resulting in the reed switch changing state, e.g., from closed to open or from open to closed. The change of state is indicative of a local alarm condition, and a signal may be generated by circuitry located within the reed switch assembly and sent, via wires or over-the-air, to a central security panel or gateway in the home, which may forward the signal to a remote monitoring station. In addition, a loud audible alert is typically generated, either at the central security panel in the home or directly by the circuitry within the reed switch assembly, indicating that a door or window has been opened. 
     One problem with security systems is the relatively frequent occurrence of false alarms. Most security systems offer a “home” arming feature which arms all door and window sensors but do not arm any interior motion sensors. In this way, occupants are protected against intruders while being able to move about within the home without causing motion sensors to alarm. Often times, occupants forget that the security system is armed, and when they open a door or a window, a false alarm is triggered. These false alarms sometimes cause a response by police or fire personnel, wasting valuable public resources. Additionally, homeowners may be fined if too many false alarms occur within a certain time period. 
     One solution to the above problem is to provide a specialized security system that can determine when a door or window is opened from a person within a premises. In such systems, no alarm is sounded when a door or window is opened by someone inside the premises when system is in an armed state. While this solution solves the problem described above, it does not allow an open window to be monitored after it is opened. In other words, if a window is left open, an intruder can enter the premises through the open window without triggering the security system. 
     It would be desirable to provide a security system that allows occupants to open doors or windows while the security system is in an armed, “home” mode of operation, as well as to continue monitoring any open doors or windows once they have been opened. 
     SUMMARY 
     The embodiments described herein relate to methods, systems, and apparatus for monitoring a barrier and/or barrier sensor. In one embodiment, a barrier sensor is described, comprising a human detection device for determining when a human being is inside a monitored premises in proximity to the barrier, a transmitter for transmitting an alarm signal to a receiver, a memory having processor-executable instructions stored thereon, and a processor coupled to the human detection device, the transmitter and the memory for executing the processor-executable instructions that cause the barrier sensor to refrain, by the processor, from transmitting the alarm signal to the receiver when the processor determines that the barrier has been placed into an open position and that a human being is inside the premises in proximity to the human detection device, and transmit the alarm signal to the receiver when the processor determines that the barrier has been moved from the open position and that a human being is not inside the premises in proximity to the human detection device. 
     In another embodiment, a remote server for monitoring a barrier sensor inside a premises is described, comprising a network interface, a memory for storing processor-executable instructions, and a processor, coupled to the network interface and the memory, for executing the processor-executable instructions that causes the server to receive, via the network interface, a first status message from the barrier sensor that the barrier has been placed into an open position and that a human being is in proximity to the barrier inside the premises when the barrier is placed into the open position, in response to receiving the first status message, refrain from causing an escalated alarm response from occurring, receive, via the network interface, a second status message from the barrier sensor that the barrier has been moved from the open position and that a human being is not in proximity to the barrier inside the premises when the barrier is moved from the open position, and in response to receiving the second status message, causing an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     In yet another embodiment, a method performed by a barrier sensor is described, comprising refraining from transmitting an alarm signal to a receiver when the barrier sensor determines that the barrier has been placed into an open position and that a human being is inside the premises in proximity to the human detection device, and transmitting the alarm signal to the receiver when the barrier sensor determines that the barrier has been moved from the open position and that a human being is not inside the premises in proximity to the barrier. 
     In yet still another embodiment, a method, for monitoring a barrier sensor inside a premises is described, performed by a remote server, comprising receiving a first status message from the barrier sensor that the barrier has been placed into an open position and that a human being is in proximity to the barrier inside the premises when the barrier is placed into the open position, in response to receiving the first status message, refraining from causing an escalated alarm response to occur, receiving a second status message from the barrier sensor that the barrier has been moved from the open position and that a human being is not in proximity to the barrier inside the premises when the barrier is moved from the open position, and in response to receiving the second status message, causing an escalated alarm response to occur. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The features, advantages, and objects of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description as set forth below, when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like referenced characters identify correspondingly throughout, and wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is an illustration of a security system in accordance with one embodiment of the principles discussed herein; 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of one embodiment of a barrier sensor shown in  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of a barrier sensor shown in  FIG.  2   ; 
         FIGS.  4 A- 4 C  represent a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by a specialized barrier sensor monitoring a barrier in a premises, for allowing someone inside to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored by receiver  116  or remote server  126 , and to cause an escalated alarm response if the receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by the specialized barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises; 
         FIG.  5    is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of the remote server shown in  FIG.  1   , used in an embodiment where the remote server determines whether escalated alarm responses should be initiated upon receipt of alarm signals from one or more barrier sensors as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   ; 
         FIGS.  6 A- 6 C  represent a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by the remote server as shown in  FIGS.  1  and  5   , for allowing someone inside a premises monitored by the security system as shown in  FIG.  1    to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises; 
         FIG.  7    is a functional block diagrams for allowing someone inside a premises monitored by the security system as shown in  FIG.  1    to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises. 
         FIG.  7    is a functional block diagram of an example receiver when the receiver comprises a security panel; 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  represent a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by the receiver as shown in  FIGS.  1  and  7   , for allowing someone inside a premises monitored by the security system as shown in  FIG.  1    to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises; and 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 B  represent a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by the barrier sensor shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3    for automatically disabling the barrier sensor any time a person is inside a premises and in proximity to a barrier being monitored by the barrier sensor. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention relate to barrier sensors, such as door or window sensors, that have a capability of allowing a barrier to be opened without triggering an alarm, as well as being able to continue monitoring the barrier for movement after it has been opened. The principle theory of operation is that if a door or window is opened by someone inside a premises, it is assumed that the person is authorized to open a barrier, and an escalated alarm response should not be generated when a barrier is opened. Conversely, if a barrier is opened by someone outside of a premises, it is assumed that the person is not authorized to be inside the premises, and an escalated alarm response should be initiated. For example, when a person is at home and a home security system is in an armed-home mode of operation, the person may open a door or a window without causing an escalated alarm response, i.e., sounding a loud siren inside/outside the home, energizing a strobe light in the home, and/or contacting a remote security monitoring center. Once the barrier has been opened, the barrier is further monitored to ensure that it is not opened further by someone not inside the home. For the purpose of the discussions herein, the term “barrier” means any physical obstruction to a building, premises, residence or other structure, such as a door, a window, a garage door, an outdoor gate, etc. The term “barrier sensor” means any device used to monitor and report states, physical conditions, attributes, status, or parameters of a barrier. Examples of barrier sensors comprise door and window sensors, glass breakage detectors, light interruption detectors, etc. 
       FIG.  1    is an illustration of a security system  130  in accordance with one embodiment of the principles discussed herein. In this embodiment, security system  130  comprises a barrier sensor  104  monitoring a door assembly  100 , a barrier sensor  106  monitoring window assembly  102 , a receiver  116  for receiving alarm signals from either or both of the barrier sensors when a door assembly  100  or window assembly  102  is opened, closed, and/or moved from an open position into either a different open position or into a closed position, and for causing an escalated alarm response to occur when security system  130  is in an armed-home state (i.e., receiver  116  or remote server  126  monitoring only barrier alarms and not interior alarms such as motion sensors) and an alarm signal is received. In another embodiment, receiver  116  comprises a hub or gateway that routes alarm signals and other signals between the barrier sensors and a remote server  126  via wide-area network  122 , where remote server  126  determines whether or not to cause an escalated alarm response to occur based on the signals from the barrier sensors. In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , barrier sensor  104  comprises magnet  108  mounted to door  112  and reed switch assembly  110  mounted to door frame  114 , while barrier sensor  106  comprises a magnet-less sensor. In some embodiments, reed switch assembly  110  may be mounted to a door or to a window with a corresponding magnet mounted to a door or window frame. 
     Each of the barrier sensors communicates with receiver  116  and/or remote server  126 , each for providing centralized monitoring of the sensors. Receiver  116  may comprise a well-known professional-grade central security monitoring panel that receives RF signals generated by the barrier sensors, such as alarm signals when a barrier has been opened and/or closed, supervisory signals, sensor status signals such as “low battery” or when tampering has occurred. Receiver  116  causes one or more enhanced security responses to occur when a barrier is opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, such as to sound a loud siren located inside or outside of the premises, causing illumination of a bright strobe light, and/or to contact remote monitoring center  124  to alert personnel at remote monitoring center  124  that a potential break-in is occurring. Similarly, remote server  126  may perform these functions as alarm signals are received from the barrier sensors via receiver  116  (in this case a hub, router, gateway, etc.) and wide-area network  122  (such as the Internet). In this embodiment, remote server  126  may send signals to one or more sirens or strobe lights located inside the premises via wide-area network  122  and receiver  116  and/or send alerts to remote monitoring center  124 . 
     At least one of barrier sensors  104  and  106  is configured to detect when someone is in proximity to a barrier inside the premises when a barrier is opened or closed. For example,  FIG.  2    illustrates barrier sensor  104  in a perspective view, comprising magnet  108  and reed switch assembly  110 . In other embodiments, the barrier sensor may use alternative door/window status detection devices, such as a hall-effect device, an ultrasonic transducer/receiver, an infrared transmitter/receiver, or some other device to determine when a window is has been open, closed or moved from an open position. The barrier sensor may have additional features, such as a user interface  202  and status indication  204 . The user interface  202  may comprise a pushbutton or other switch to provide input to the barrier sensor. For example, in some embodiments, user interface  202  is used to place the barrier sensor into a “learn” state of operation for initial installation and pairing with receiver  116  or remote server  126 . In another embodiment, user interface  202  may allow a user to temporarily disarm the barrier sensor in order to open a barrier without triggering an escalated alarm response from receiver  116 /remote server  126 . However, user interface  202  may not be needed or desirable to manually bypass barrier sensor  104  as barrier sensor  104  can sense when someone is inside a premises and in proximity to a barrier being monitored, so that if the window is opened by such a person, barrier sensor  104  is automatically bypassed, i.e., it will not trigger an escalated alarm response when the barrier is opened. Status indicator  204  can comprise, for example, an LED to indicate when the barrier sensor is disarmed or operating normally. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  2   , reed switch assembly  110  comprises housing  200  that covers a processor, a barrier state detection device (in this example, a reed switch), an RF transmitter, a human detection device, a movement detector and a battery. For purposes of discussion herein, the term “barrier sensor” is used interchangeably with the term “reed switch assembly” or the combination of reed switch assembly  110  and magnet  108 . Of course, the barrier sensor could comprise any number of alternative embodiments, such as a magnet-less door window sensor, an RF detector, an RFID sensor, a light interruption detector, or any other device that is able to determine the status of a barrier such as a door or a window (i.e., whether a door or window is open or closed). The reed switch is used to detect the presence or absence of a magnetic field produced by magnet  108  and the transmitter used to transmit information to receiver  116 /remote server  126  relating to the status of a monitored door or window. The human detection device detects the presence of a person in proximity to the barrier or barrier sensor inside the premises. The term “in proximity” generally means within a distance for a human being to open or close the barrier. 
     In one embodiment, as explained above, a barrier sensor is configured to detect human beings inside a monitored premises and in proximity to a barrier. In another embodiment, the barrier sensor is configured to detect human beings outside a monitored premises and in proximity to a barrier. When configured to detect human beings outside of a monitored premises, the barrier sensor may use a detector that is external to housing  200  and coupled to the detector via a wire or via wireless communications. For example, an ultrasonic transducer and receiver could be mounted external to a window, and a wire connecting it to the barrier sensor. 
     Barrier sensor  104  as shown in  FIG.  2    may comprise one or more apertures  206  to allow a human detection device inside housing  200  to propagate signals in order to detect a human being in proximity to a barrier. For example, if the human detection device is an ultrasonic transducer and receiver, the apertures  206  allow ultrasonic pings to escape the housing and to be returned to the ultrasonic receiver for processing. In other embodiments, the apertures  206  may, additionally or alternatively, be located on a different surface of housing  200  in order to better direct signals used to determine the presence of a human being. For example, in the embodiment shown in  FIG.  2   , apertures  206  are located on “front-facing” side of housing  200 . This configuration might be best for a barrier sensor that is mounted between three and a half to six feet from the floor, for example, such as on a “head” of a movable portion of a double hung window, to project signals horizontally towards anyone who might be in proximity to the window. In an embodiment where the barrier sensor is mounted between seven and ten feet, for example mounted to a top portion of a door, apertures  206  might be formed on the “bottom-facing” surface of housing  200 , in order to project signals downwards, towards a human being who may be opening the door. 
     In some embodiments, a deflection device  208  may be used to better guide signals emanating from housing  200  to detect a human being after being installed over apertures  206 . In one embodiment, deflection device  208  comprises a fixed structure that mounts over apertures  206 . In another embodiment, deflection device  208  comprise movable “shutters” or “louvers” mounted over or through apertures  206  to allow a user to adjust the direction of signals emanating from housing  200 . The deflection device  208  may be configured to guide signals at a certain angle away from the housing  200  to have the best opportunity to sense a human being, e.g., to guide signals to where a human being would expect to be when the reed switch assembly is mounted in a typical location, such as on top of a door or window frame. For example, the angle of deflection device  208  may be 45 degrees, thereby guiding signals downwards and away from the barrier by 1-2 feet or so, depending on how high the reed switch assembly is mounted. 
     In one embodiment, when a person is detected near a barrier monitored by barrier sensor  104  and inside a monitored premises, barrier sensor  104  may not trigger an escalated alarm response when the barrier is opened and, conversely, if a person is not detected inside the monitored premises in proximity to the barrier when the barrier is opened, an escalated alarm response is initiated by receiver  116  or remote server  126 . This reduces the occurrence of false alarms, because a person opening a door or window from within a monitored premise is assumed to have authorization to be there. In another embodiment, the human detection device is configured to detect the presence of a person near the barrier sensor, but outside the monitored premises. In this case, an escalated alarm response is triggered only when a barrier is opened and a person is detected near barrier sensor  104 , outside the monitored premises and, conversely, when the barrier is opened and no person is detected outside the premises, no escalated alarm response is generated. 
     In some embodiments, barrier sensor  104  is disabled when it detects a barrier being opened or moved by someone inside a premises by failing to transmit an alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 . In another embodiment, when a barrier is opened by someone inside the premises, a bypass signal is transmitted to receiver  116  or remote server  126 , instructing receiver  116  or remote server  126  not to cause an escalated alarm response if receiver  116  or remote server  126  receives an alarm signal after transmission of the bypass signal. The bypass signal is an instruction to receiver  116  or remote server  126  to ignore future alarm signals generated by a particular barrier sensor until a bypass cancellation signal is received from the barrier sensor. In yet another embodiment, barrier sensor  104  transmits one or more signals when it detects that a barrier has been opened or moved and a person is, or is not, inside a premises in proximity to a barrier. In this embodiment, barrier alarm  104  transmits an indication of whether a barrier was opened or moved, and an indication of whether the barrier was opened or moved by a person inside a premises and in proximity to the barrier near the time when the barrier was opened or moved. This allows receiver  116  or remote server  126  to make a decision whether to cause an escalated security response based on the alarm signals from barrier sensor  104 . 
       FIG.  3    is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of barrier sensor  104  (or  106 ) in accordance with the teachings herein. Specifically,  FIG.  3    shows a processor  300 , memory  302 , a human detection device  304 , a barrier status detection device  306 , and transmitter  308 . It should be understood that the functional blocks may be coupled to one another in a variety of ways, and that not all functional blocks necessary for operation of the barrier sensor are shown (such as a power supply), for purposes of clarity. 
     Processor  300  is configured to provide general operation of barrier sensor  104  by executing processor-executable instructions stored in memory  302 , for example, executable code. Processor  300  typically comprises a general purpose processor, such as an ADuC7024 analog microcontroller manufactured by Analog Devices, Inc. of Norwood Mass., although any one of a variety of microprocessors, microcomputers, and/or microcontrollers may be used alternatively. Due to the relatively small size of barrier sensor  104 , and the fact that barrier sensor  104  is generally battery-powered, processor  300  is typically selected based on power consumption, size, and cost. 
     Memory  302  is coupled to processor  300 , comprising one or more non-transitory information storage devices, such as one or more static or dynamic memory devices, such as RAM, ROM, flash, or some other combination of electronic, optical, or mechanical memory devices. Memory  302  is used to store processor-executable instructions for operation of barrier sensor  104  as well as any information used by processor  300 , such as threshold information, parameter information, identification information, current or previous door or window status information, etc. It should be understood that in some embodiments, at least a portion of memory  302  is physically integrated with processor  300 . 
     Human detection device  304  is coupled to processor  300 , comprising a device or circuitry to detect the presence of a person in proximity to a barrier, either inside a monitored premises, outside a monitored premises, or both. Examples of human detection device  304  include an ultrasonic transducer/receiver, an infrared transmitter/receiver, a capacitance sensor, an RF tank circuit, an RFID receiver and RFID chip, a motion detector, a time-of-flight sensor, or some other circuitry or device able to detect the presence of a human being proximate to a barrier. The term “proximate to a barrier” means that a person is within a distance from a barrier that the person could open the barrier. 
     Barrier status detection device  306  is coupled to processor  300  and monitors or determines a state, physical condition, attribute, status, or parameter of a barrier being monitored, such as the status (e.g., “open”, “closed”, “moved”) of a door, window, gate, or other entrance or exit barrier. Barrier status detection device  306  may comprise a reed switch, ultrasonic transducer/receiver, an infrared transmitter/receiver, an RFID receiver, a tilt sensor, or some other device to determine whether a window is open or closed. 
     Movement detector  308  is coupled to processor  300  and monitors a barrier for movement after the barrier has been placed into an open position. Movement detector  308  could, alternatively or in conjunction with barrier status detection device  306 , to determine when a barrier has been opened and/or closed. Movement detector  308  may comprise comprises a MEMS accelerometer, such as an ADXL345 manufactured by Analog Devices, of Norwood, Mass. In another embodiment, movement detector  308  comprises a gyroscope, such as the LPY530AL analog gyroscope manufactured by STmicroelectronics of Geneva, Switzerland. In another embodiment, both an accelerometer and a gyroscope are used together, acting as motion detector  308 . Generally, both of these devices are capable of generating electrical signals that represent an acceleration, a velocity, an angular velocity and/or a position relating to an object to which they are mounted. In another embodiment, one or more of these attributes is determined mathematically using one of the other attributes. For example, a position of a barrier may be determined by twice integrating an acceleration signal from motion detector  308  by processor  300 . 
     Transmitter  310  comprises circuitry necessary to wirelessly transmit alarm signals and/or status messages and/or other information from a specialized barrier sensor to one or more receivers, such as a central security panel or a gateway device coupled to a wide area network such as the Internet, either directly or through in intermediate device, such as a repeater, commonly used in popular mesh networks. Such circuitry is well known in the art and may comprise BlueTooth, Wi-Fi, RF, optical, ultrasonic circuitry, among others. Alternatively, or in addition, transmitter  310  comprises well-known circuitry to provide signals to central security panel or a gateway via wiring, such as telephone wiring, twisted pair, two-conductor pair, CAT wiring, AC home wiring, or other type of wiring. 
       FIG.  4    is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by barrier sensor  104  monitoring a barrier in a premises, for allowing someone inside to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored by receiver  116  or remote server  126 , and to cause an escalated alarm response if the receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by barrier sensor  104  is moved from an open position by a person outside the premises. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the steps shown in  FIG.  4    are performed. It should also be understood that the order in which the steps are carried out may be different in other embodiments. 
     In the following discussion, it is assumed that barrier sensor  104  comprising a reed switch assembly and a magnet mounted to window  102 . It should be understood that the concepts discussed below may be equally applicable to other uses of barrier sensor  104 , such as use as a door sensor monitoring door  100 . 
     At block  400 , receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation. Processor  300  monitors signals from barrier status detection device  306  to determine when window  102  has been opened. In one embodiment, processor does not monitor movement detector  308  when window  102  is shut. In another embodiment, processor  300  monitors both barrier status detection device  306  and movement detector  308  to determine when window  102  has been opened, typically by determining when the barrier status detection device  306  indicates that window  102  has been opened, i.e., a change in state of the reed switch is detected and movement detector  308  indicates that window  102  is experiencing some degree of acceleration from movement of window  102  from the closed position. 
     At block  402 , window  102  is opened. 
     At block  404 , processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened by detecting a change in a signal from barrier status detection device  306 , in this case, that the reed switch has changed state. In another embodiment, where processor  300  monitors both barrier status detection device  306  and movement detector  308  to determine when window  102  has been opened, processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened when it determines that the barrier status detection device  306  indicates that window  102  has been opened and movement detector  308  indicates that window  102  is experiencing some degree of acceleration from movement of window  102  from the closed position. 
     At block  406 , in one embodiment, in response to determining that window  102  has been opened, processor  300  energizes person human detection device  304  from a de-energized, quiescent or low-power state of operation. In this embodiment, human detection device  304  is kept in a default, quiescent, de-energized or low-power state and energized only when processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened. The quiescent state refers to a low-power consumption state of operation or a no-power consumption state of operation, e.g., being in an “off” condition. In this way, power savings are achieved by barrier sensor  104 , as the circuitry comprising human detection device  304  is only energized when window  102  is opened. For example, in an embodiment where human detection device  304  comprises an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic receiver, the ultrasonic transducer and ultrasonic receiver may be powered off until processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened. In response to determining that window  102  has been opened, processor  300  energizes the ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic receiver circuitry and causes the ultrasonic transducer to emit a number of ultrasonic “pings” in order to determine whether a human being is in proximity to window  102  or not. In one embodiment, only a single ping is sent. Processor  300  then determines whether a human being is in proximity of window  102  inside the premises by determining if a return signal was received by the ultrasonic receiver. If no human being was determined to be in proximity of window  102 , it indicates that window  102  was opened by someone outside the premises, e.g., an unauthorized person. In this case processing continues to block  408 . If processor  300  determined that a human being was in proximity of window  102  inside the premises, then no alarm signal would be transmitted to receiver  116  or remote server  126 , as this is an indication that someone inside the premises opened window  102 , e.g., an authorized person, or a bypass signal is transmitted to receiver  116  or remote server  126 . 
     In another embodiment, human detection device  304  periodically evaluates the space inside the premises in proximity to window  102  to determine whether a human being is present or not. For example, a motion sensor may be energized once every three seconds to determine whether any infrared return signals are detected, indicating the presence of a human being. In another embodiment, an ultrasonic transducer may transmit an ultrasonic “ping” once every two seconds to determine whether a return signal is received, indicating the presence of a human being. 
     In one embodiment, in response to determining that window  102  has been opened, processor  300  begins monitoring movement detector  308  in an embodiment where processor  300  does not monitor movement detector  308  when window  102  is closed. 
     At block  408 , processor  300  determines whether a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102  by evaluating one or more signals from human detection device  304 . 
     At block  410 , in response to determining that window  102  has been opened and that a human being is not inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , processor  300  generates an alarm signal and provides it to transmitter  310 . In another embodiment, processor  300  causes transmitter  310  to transmit an indication of the status of window  102 , i.e., open, closed, moved and an indication of whether someone was detected inside the premises in proximity to window  102  or not. 
     At block  412 , transmitter  310  transmits the alarm signal to receiver  116 . Alternatively, or in addition, transmitter  310  transmits the alarm signal to remote server  126  via receiver  116  and wide-area network  122 . 
     At block  414 , in one embodiment, receiver  116  receives the alarm signal from the barrier sensor and processes it to determine if it should cause an escalated alarm response to occur. For example, upon determining that the receiver  116  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation and an alarm signal is received from barrier sensor  104 , receiver  116  may initiate the escalated alarm response by causing a loud siren inside the premises to activate and/or send a notification to remote monitoring center  124  so that remote monitoring center  124  may summon appropriate authorities to the premises. Receiver  116  may also provide a notification to interested parties via text message, email or a phone call that an alarm signal was received while receiver  116  was in an armed-home mode of operation. 
     In another embodiment where barrier sensor  104  transmits a window status indication and a person status indication, receiver  116  or remote server  126  determines whether to cause an escalated alarm response to occur based on the two indications of window status and person status. Thus, if receiver  116  or remote server  126  determines that window  102  has been opened, or moved, and that a person was not inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , and receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation, receiver  116  or remote server  126  will cause an escalated alarm response to occur. Conversely, if receiver  116  or remote server  126  determines that window  102  has been opened, or moved, and that a person was inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , and receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation, receiver  116  or remote server  126  will not cause an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  416 , if a person is detected inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , per block  408 , processor  300  refrains from transmitting an alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 . In another embodiment, processor  300  causes transmitter  310  to transmit a window status indication (in this case “open”) and a person status indication (in this case “present”) when a person is detected inside the premises in proximity to window  102 . This allows receiver  116  or  126  to decide whether to cause an escalated alarm response based on the two indications. 
     At block  418 , at some later time, processor  300  determines that window  102  has been placed into a closed position based on signals received from barrier status detection device  306 , movement detector  308 , or both. 
     At block  420 , in response to determining that window  102  has been placed into the closed position, processor  300  may cause transmitter  310  to transmit a status signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  indicating that window  102  is in the closed position. In addition, in response to determining that window  102  has been placed into the closed position, in some embodiments, processor  300  stops monitoring movement sensor  308 , and/or places human detection device  304  into a de-energized or quiescent state. 
     At block  422 , after window  102  has been closed, receiver  116  or remote server  126  continues to operate in an armed-home mode of operation. Processor  300  monitors signals from barrier status detection device  306  to determine when window  102  is opened again. In one embodiment, processor  300  does not monitor movement detector  308  when window  102  is shut. In another embodiment, processor  300  monitors both barrier status detection device  306  and movement detector  308  to determine when window  102  has been re-opened, typically by determining when the barrier status detection device  306  indicates that window  102  has been opened, i.e., a change in state of the reed switch is detected and movement detector  308  indicates that window  102  is experiencing some degree of acceleration from movement of window  102  from the closed position. 
     At block  424 , processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened by a person inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , for example, to allow outside air to flow into the premises through window  102 , as discussed above. As a result, no escalated alarm response is initiated. Window  102  is now in an open position, for example, open 6 inches. 
     At block  426 , processor  300  may, in one embodiment, stop monitoring barrier status detection device  306  after it determines that window  102  has been opened, in order to save power or to simplify further determinations about the status of window  102 . 
     At block  428 , processor  300  receives signals from motion detector  308  indicating movement of window  102  as window  102  is being opened, then indicate that window  102  has stopped moving. Processor  300  may determine that window  102  is open a desired amount when the indications from movement detector  308  indicate that window  102  has stopped moving for more than a predetermined amount of time, such as between 1 and 10 seconds, for example. 
     At block  430 , at some time later, processor  300  determines that window  102  has been moved from the open position, either in a direction further opening window  102  or in a direction towards closing window  102 . Processor  300  determines this by examining signals from motion detector  308 , which provides indications of window movement via window acceleration, velocity, or position. 
     At block  432 , processor  300  determines whether a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , as explained above. In one embodiment where human detection device  304  is held in a normally-quiescent state, processor  300  first energizes human detection device  304  so that human detection device  304  can determine whether a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  is opened. 
     At block  434 , if processor  300  determines that a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  is moved from the open position, i.e., within a few seconds before or after movement of window  102  is detected) processor  300  refrains from sending an alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 , as described earlier above, and continues to monitor movement detector  308  for further movement of window  102 . Processor  300  may, alternatively, determine that window  102  has been shut, for example when movement detector  308  indicates a sudden deceleration of window  102  as it is shut. In this case, processor  300  may stop monitoring movement detector  308  and begin monitoring barrier status detection device  306  in an embodiment where processor  300  monitors only barrier status detection device  306  while window  102  is closed and movement detector  308  while window  102  is open. In another embodiment, upon determining that a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved, processor  300  transmits a window status signal and a person status signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  for receiver  116  or remote server to determine whether to initiate an escalated alarm response. 
     At block  436 , if processor  300  determines that a person is not inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  is moved from the open position, indicating that window  102  was moved by an unauthorized person outside the premises, processor  300  generates an alarm signal and transmits the alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  for processing, i.e., for receiver  116  or remote server  126  to cause an escalated alarm response if security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation. In another embodiment, upon determining that a person is not inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved, processor  300  transmits a window status signal and a person status signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  for receiver  116  or remote server to determine whether to initiate an escalated alarm response. 
     At block  438 , in an embodiment where processor  300  is able to distinguish directionality of window  102  while it is being moved from the open position, i.e., further opened or less open, processor determines a direction of movement. 
     At block  440 , in this embodiment, processor  300  refrains from transmitting an alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  if processor  300  has determined that window  102  is being moved towards a closed position, i.e., someone is moving window  102  to a more-closed position than when window  102  was in the open position. In one embodiment, processor  300  need not determine whether someone is inside the premises in proximity to window  102 —any time window  102  is being moved towards a more-closed position may indicate that no one is trying to enter the premises through window  102 . In another embodiment, upon determining that window  102  is being moved towards a closed position, processor  300  transmits a window status signal indicating that window  102  is being moved towards a closed position and in some embodiments, a person status signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 , indicating that a person is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 , for receiver  116  or remote server to determine whether to initiate an escalated alarm response. 
     At block  442 , in this embodiment, processor  300  generates and transmits an alarm signal if window  102  is being further opened from the open position when processor  300  determines that no one is inside the premises in proximity to window  102 . This indicates that that window  102  is being opened further from the open position by someone outside of the premises who is likely not authorized to be inside the premises. In another embodiment, upon determining that a person is not inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was further opened, processor  300  transmits a window status signal indicating that window  102  is being opened and a person status signal indicating that a person is not inside the premises in proximity to window  102  to receiver  116  or remote server  126  for receiver  116  or remote server to determine whether to initiate an escalated alarm response. 
       FIG.  5    is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of remote server  126  used in an embodiment where remote server  126  determines whether escalated alarm responses should be initiated upon receipt of alarm signals from one or more barrier sensors in security system  130 . Specifically,  FIG.  5    shows processor  500 , memory  502 , and network interface  504 . It should be understood that the functional blocks may be coupled to one another in a variety of ways, and that not all functional blocks necessary for operation of the barrier sensor are shown (such as a power supply), for purposes of clarity. 
     Processor  500  is configured to provide general operation of remote server  126  by executing processor-executable instructions stored in memory  502 , for example, executable code. Processor  500  typically comprises one or more general purpose processors, such as a Pentium®-class microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif., although other types of processors, such as one or more of a variety of microprocessors, microcomputers, and/or microcontrollers may be used alternatively. Processor  500  is typically selected based on its computational power and cost considerations. 
     Memory  502  is coupled to processor  500 , comprising one or more non-transitory information storage devices, such as one or more static or dynamic memory devices, such as RAM, ROM, flash, or some other combination of electronic, optical, or mechanical memory devices. Memory  502  is used to store processor-executable instructions for operation of remote server  126  as well as any information used by remote server  126 , such as threshold information, parameter information, identification information, current or previous door or window status information, etc. It should be understood that in some embodiments, at least a portion of memory  502  is physically integrated with processor  500 . 
     Network interface  504  is coupled to processor  500 , comprising well-known circuitry for allowing remote server  126  to communicate with barrier sensors in a security systems via wide-area network  122  using, for example, IP-based protocols. 
       FIG.  6    is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by remote server  126  for allowing someone inside a premises monitored by remote server  126  to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the steps shown in  FIG.  6    are performed. It should also be understood that the order in which the steps are carried out may be different in other embodiments. 
     In the following discussion, it is assumed that barrier sensor  104  is monitoring window  102 . It should be understood that the concepts discussed below may be equally applicable to other uses of barrier sensor  104 , such as use as a door sensor monitoring door  100 . 
     At block  600 , remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation, in communication with barrier sensor  104  via receiver  116  and wide-area network  122 . Window  102  is closed. 
     At block  602 , window  102  is opened. 
     At block  604 , barrier sensor  104  determines that window  102  was opened and whether someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened or not. In response, barrier sensor  104  sends a status message to receiver  116 , indicating that window  102  was opened and whether someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened, or not. In one embodiment, processor  300  begins monitoring movement detector  308 . In another embodiment, processor  300  begins monitoring movement detector  308  and stops monitoring barrier status detection device  306 . 
     At block  606 , receiver  116  receives the status message and forwards it to remote server  126  via wide-area network  122 . 
     At block  608 , the status message is received by processor  500  of remote server  126  via network interface  504 . 
     At block  610 , processor  500  evaluates the status message and processes it to determine if it should cause an escalated alarm response to occur. For example, processor  500  evaluates the status message to determine if the status message indicates that window  102  has been opened and whether there was someone inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation. 
     At block  612 , when processor  500  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been opened and that there is no one inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  500  causes an escalated alarm response to occur. Generally, processor  500  sends one or more instructions to receiver  116  via network interface  504  and wide-area network  122 , instructing receiver  116  to cause, for example, a loud siren to sound inside the premises and/or to flash one or more strobe lights. Processor  500  may also, as part of the escalated alarm response, contact remote monitoring center  124  to alert remote monitoring center  124  of a potential break in at the premises. Processor  500  may also, as part of the escalated alarm response, send a notification to one or more interested parties via text message, email or a phone call via network interface  504  and wide-area network  122  that a potential break in at the premises has occurred. 
     At block  614 , when processor  500  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been opened and that there is someone inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  500  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response from occurring. 
     At block  616 , processor  500  may update a record stored in memory  502 , indicating that window  102  was opened by an authorized person, along with a date and a time that the opening occurred. 
     At block  618 , after window  102  has been opened and no escalated alarm response was executed, barrier sensor  104  may determine at some later time that window  102  has been moved from the open position to another position, either opened further or moved towards a closed position. In one embodiment, barrier sensor  104  is configured to determine which direction window  102  has been further moved, either towards a more-open position or towards a more-closed position. 
     At block  620 , barrier sensor  104  determines whether someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved from the open position. 
     At block  622 , in response to determining that window  102  was moved from the open position, barrier sensor  104  generates and transmits a status message to receiver  116 , indicating that window  102  was moved from the open position and that either a) no one was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  was moved or that b) someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  was moved. 
     At block  624 , receiver  116  receives the status message and forwards it to remote server  126  via wide-area network  122 . 
     At block  626 , the status message is received by processor  500  of remote server  126  via network interface  504 . 
     At block  628 , processor  500  evaluates the status message and processes it to determine if it should cause an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  630 , when processor  500  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position and that there is no one inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  500  causes an escalated alarm response to occur, as explained above. 
     At block  632 , when processor  500  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved and that there is someone inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved from the open position while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  500  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response from occurring. 
     At block  634 , processor  500  may update a record stored in memory  502 , indicating that window  102  was moved by either an authorized person or an unauthorized person, along with a date and a time that the movement occurred. 
     At block  636 , in an embodiment where barrier sensor  104  is able to distinguish directionality of window  102  while it is being moved from the open position, i.e., further opened or less open, the status message transmitted after window  102  has been moved from the open position may comprise an indication of the direction of movement. 
     At block  638 , processor  500  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response from occurring when the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position, but that the direction of movement is towards a closed position. Conversely, processor  500  causes an escalated alarm response when the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position, but that the direction of movement is towards a more-open position, and that no one is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 . 
       FIG.  7    is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of receiver  116  when receiver  116  comprises a security panel, i.e., a unit in communication with one or more barrier sensors that determines whether to initiate escalated alarm responses when status messages are received from one or more of the barrier sensors. Specifically,  FIG.  7    shows processor  700 , memory  702 , sensor interface  704  and network interface  706 . It should be understood that the functional blocks may be coupled to one another in a variety of ways, and that not all functional blocks necessary for operation of the barrier sensor are shown (such as a power supply), for purposes of clarity. 
     Processor  700  is configured to provide general operation of receiver  116  by executing processor-executable instructions stored in memory  702 , for example, executable code. Processor  700  typically comprises one or more general purpose processors, such as a Pentium®-class microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif., although other types of processors, such as one or more of a variety of microprocessors, microcomputers, and/or microcontrollers may be used alternatively. Processor  700  is typically selected based on its computational power and cost considerations. 
     Memory  702  is coupled to processor  700 , comprising one or more non-transitory information storage devices, such as one or more static or dynamic memory devices, such as RAM, ROM, flash, or some other combination of electronic, optical, or mechanical memory devices. Memory  702  is used to store processor-executable instructions for operation of receiver  116  as well as any information used by receiver  116 , such as threshold information, parameter information, identification information, current or previous door or window status information, etc. It should be understood that in some embodiments, at least a portion of memory  702  is physically integrated with processor  700 . 
     Sensor interface  704  is coupled to processor  700 , comprising well-known radio-frequency reception circuitry, such as RF, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or some other circuitry that allows receiver  116  to receive, and in some cases additionally transmit, information from a plurality of barrier sensors. 
     Network interface  706  is coupled to processor  700 , comprising well-known circuitry for allowing receiver  116  to communicate with network-capable devices, such as one or more wireless sirens, one or more strobe lights, and/or remote monitoring center  124 . Typically, network interface  706  comprises IP-packet-based technology. In some embodiments, receiver  116  may communicate with local devices such as sirens and strobe lights via sensor interface  704 . 
       FIG.  8    is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by receiver  116  for allowing someone inside a premises monitored by receiver  116  to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the steps shown in  FIG.  8    are performed. It should also be understood that the order in which the steps are carried out may be different in other embodiments. 
     In the following discussion, it is assumed that barrier sensor  104  is monitoring window  102 . It should be understood that the concepts discussed below may be equally applicable to other uses of barrier sensor  104 , such as use as a door sensor monitoring door  100 . 
     At block  800 , receiver  116  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation, in communication with barrier sensor  104  via sensor interface  704 . Window  102  is closed. 
     At block  802 , window  102  is opened. 
     At block  804 , barrier sensor  104  determines that window  102  was opened. 
     At block  806 , barrier sensor  104  determines if anyone was inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened. 
     At block  808 , barrier sensor  104  transmits a status message to receiver  116 , indicating that window  102  was opened and whether anyone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened. 
     At block  810 , receiver  116  receives the status message and provides it to processor  700  via sensor interface  704 . 
     At block  812 , processor  700  evaluates the status message and processes it to determine if it should cause an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  814 , processor  700  may determine that the status message indicates that window  102  was opened and that there was no one inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  was in an armed-home mode of operation. 
     At block  816 , in response to determining that window  102  was opened and that there was no one inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  was in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  700  causes an escalated alarm response to occur. Generally, processor  700  sends instructions to one or more local sirens and/or strobe lights coupled to receiver  116  via network interface  706  to sound a loud siren or illuminate a strobe light, respectively. Processor  700  may also, as part of the escalated alarm response, contact remote monitoring center  124  via network interface  706  to alert remote monitoring center  124  of a potential break in at the premises. Processor  700  may also, as part of the escalated alarm response, send a notification to one or more interested parties via text message, email or a phone call via network interface  706  and wide-area network  122  that a potential break in at the premises has occurred. 
     At block  818 , processor  700  may determine that the status message indicates that window  102  has been opened and that there is someone inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation. In response, processor  700  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  820 , processor  700  may update a record stored in memory  702 , indicating that window  102  was opened by an authorized or unauthorized person, as the case may be, along with a date and a time that the opening occurred. 
     At block  822 , after window  102  has been opened and no escalated alarm response was executed, barrier sensor  104  determines that window  102  has been moved from the open position to another position, either opened further or moved towards a closed position. In one embodiment, barrier sensor  104  is configured to determine which direction window  102  has been further moved, either towards a more-open position or towards a more-closed position. 
     At block  824 , barrier sensor  104  determines whether someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved from the open position. 
     At block  826 , in response to determining that window  102  was moved from the open position, barrier sensor  104  generates and transmits a status message to receiver  116 , indicating that window  102  was moved from the open position and that either a) no one was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  was moved or that b) someone was inside the premises in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  was moved. 
     At block  828 , receiver  116  receives the status message via sensor interface  704  and provides the status message to processor  700 . 
     At block  830 , processor  700  evaluates the status message and processes it to determine if it should cause an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  832 , when processor  700  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position and that there is no one inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was moved while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  700  causes an escalated alarm response to occur, as explained above. 
     At block  834 , when processor  700  determines that the status message indicates that window  102  has been opened and that there is someone inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time that window  102  was opened while security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation, processor  700  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response to occur. 
     At block  836 , processor  700  may update a record stored in memory  702 , indicating that window  102  was moved by either an authorized person or an unauthorized person, along with a date and a time that the movement occurred. 
     At block  838 , in an embodiment where barrier sensor  104  is able to distinguish directionality of window  102  while it is being moved from the open position, i.e., further opened or less open, the status message transmitted after window  102  has been moved from the open position may comprise an indication of the direction of movement. 
     At block  840 , processor  700  refrains from causing an escalated alarm response to occur when the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position, but that the direction of movement is towards a closed position. In one embodiment, refrainment occurs only when someone is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  near the time when window  102  was moved. In another embodiment, processor  700  does not consider whether someone is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102  in determining whether to cause an escalated alarm response to occur, because if window  102  is being closed, it should not matter whether an authorized or unauthorized person is moving window  102  towards a more-closed position. In this embodiment, barrier sensor  104  may be configured to only transmit an indication that window  102  was moved and that was moved towards a closed position. In yet another embodiment, barrier sensor  104  is configured not to transmit a status message when window  102  is moved from the open position and towards a closed position, whether or not a person is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 . 
     Conversely, processor  700  may cause an escalated alarm response when the status message indicates that window  102  has been moved from the open position, but that the direction of movement is towards a more-open position, and that no one is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 . 
       FIG.  9    is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method performed by barrier sensor  104  for automatically disabling barrier sensor  104  any time a person is inside a premises and in proximity to a barrier being monitored by barrier sensor  104 . For purposes of this discussion, “disabling” means either preventing barrier sensor  104  from transmitting alarm signals or transmitting a bypass signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 . This allows someone inside a premises monitored by receiver  116  or remote server  126  to open a door or window without triggering an escalated alarm response, for leaving a door or window open while it is being actively monitored, and to cause an escalated alarm response if the security system is operating in an armed-home mode and a door or window monitored by a barrier sensor is moved from the open position by a person not inside the premises. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the steps shown in  FIG.  9    are performed. It should also be understood that the order in which the steps are carried out may be different in other embodiments. 
     In the following discussion, it is assumed that barrier sensor  104  is monitoring window  102 . It should be understood that the concepts discussed below may be equally applicable to other uses of barrier sensor  104 , such as use as a door sensor monitoring door  100 . 
     At block  900 , receiver  116  or remote server  126  is operating in an armed-home mode of operation and window  102  is shut. Processor  300  monitors signals from barrier status detection device  306  to determine when window  102  has been opened. In one embodiment, processor does not monitor movement detector  308  when window  102  is shut. In another embodiment, processor  300  monitors both barrier status detection device  306  and movement detector  308  to determine when window  102  has been opened, typically by determining when the barrier status detection device  306  indicates that window  102  has been opened, i.e., a change in state of the reed switch is detected and movement detector  308  indicates that window  102  is experiencing some degree of acceleration from movement of window  102  from the closed position. 
     At block  902 , a person inside the premises approaches window  102  and is in proximity to window  102 . 
     At block  904 , processor  300  determines that a person is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 , as explained above using human detection device  304 . 
     At block  906 , in response to determining that a person is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 , processor  300  disables barrier sensor  104 . In one embodiment, processor  300  disables barrier sensor  104  by refraining to transmit an alarm signal when processor  300  detects that window  102  has been opened. In another embodiment, processor  300  generates and causes transmitter  310  to transmit a bypass signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126  instructing receiver  116  or remote server  126  to ignore future alarm signals from barrier sensor  14  until further notice. In another embodiment, processor  300  transmits a status message to receiver  116  or remote server  126  indicating that a person is inside the premises in proximity to window  102 , so that receiver  116  or remote server  126  can determine whether to initiate an escalated alarm response. 
     Processor  300  may disable barrier sensor for a predetermined time period, during the time that the person is inside the premises and in proximity to window  102 , or until a second predetermined time period has elapsed after the person is no longer in proximity to window  102 . 
     At block  908 , while barrier sensor  104  is disabled, the person opens window  102 . 
     At block  910 , processor  300  determines that window  102  has been opened as a result of processing signals from barrier status detection device  306 . 
     At block  912 , processor  300  may being to monitor movement detector  308  as a result of determining that window  102  has been opened in an embodiment where processor  300  monitors only barrier status detection device  304  to determine whether window  102  has been opened. 
     At block  914 , in one embodiment, processor  300  refrains from transmitting an alarm signal to receiver  116  or  126  upon determining that window  102  was opened. In another embodiment where a bypass signal was previously transmitted, processor  300  transmits an alarm signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 , where receiver  116  or remote server  126  may log the event, but not cause an escalated alarm response to occur. In yet another embodiment, processor  300  transmits a status message indicating that window  102  has been opened. 
     At block  916 , after window  102  has been opened, processor  300  may determine that window  102  is in an open position when signals from movement detector  308  indicate that window  102  has stopped moving for a predetermined time period. 
     At block  918 , the person who opened window  102  steps away from window  102 . 
     At block  920 , processor  300  determines that the person is no longer in proximity to window  102  by processing signals from human detection device  304 . 
     At block  922 , processor  300  enables barrier sensor  104  as a result of determining that the person is no longer in proximity to window  102 . In one embodiment, enabling barrier sensor  104  comprises transmitting an alarm signal when processor  300  determines that window  102  has been moved from the open position to a new position and that no one is inside the premises in proximity to window  102 . In another embodiment, enabling barrier sensor  104  comprises transmitting, by processor  300  via transmitter  310 , a bypass cancellation signal to receiver  116  or remote server  126 . The bypass cancellation signal instructs receiver  116  or remote server  126  to begin processing alarm signals transmitted from barrier sensor  104  to cause an escalated security response when an alarm signal is received and security system  130  is in an armed-home mode of operation. In yet another embodiment, enabling barrier sensor  104  comprises allowing transmission of status indications, such as a window status indication and a person status indication. 
     The methods or algorithms described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware or embodied in processor-readable instructions executed by a processor. The processor-readable instructions may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components. 
     Accordingly, an embodiment of the invention may comprise a computer-readable media embodying code or processor-readable instructions to implement the teachings, methods, processes, algorithms, steps and/or functions disclosed herein. 
     While the foregoing disclosure shows illustrative embodiments of the invention, it should be noted that various changes and modifications could be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The functions, steps and/or actions of the method claims in accordance with the embodiments of the invention described herein need not be performed in any particular order. Furthermore, although elements of the invention may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.