Patent Description:
A door or window may be in at least one of four conditions - open, closed, unlocked and locked. A homeowner or another person may want to check the status of the door or window without having to test the door or window manually - for example, they may wish to check the status while away from home.

Sensors are available which sense the condition of a door or window, and which communicate this to another device (via which the user can determine the condition of the door or window).

There may be a need to attach such a sensor or another element to the door or window frame, for example.

<CIT> discloses locks, systems and methods of monitoring a lock, the lock having a hub with a slot rotatable by a handle to open and close a latchbolt. A locking member is moveable into and out of engagement with the hub slot to prevent and permit movement of the hub and latchbolt. A sensor on the lock, adjacent the hub and locking member, monitors a moving lock component. The sensor may sense the position of the locking member in or out of engagement with the hub slot. The sensor may be a reed switch actuated by a magnet on the moving lock component. The lock may further include a magnet mounted on the hub and the sensor may comprise a reed switch capable of being actuated by the magnet on the hub. The lock and system may include an external control unit having an alarm for controlling operation of the lock.

The present invention seeks to provide an improved attachment system for a door or window frame.

Accordingly, there is provided a door or window including: a lock or latch mechanism actuatable between a locked and an unlocked condition; a system configured to determine the condition of the lock or latch mechanism, the system including: a module including first and second sensor units; a magnet configured to be attached to a part of the lock or latch mechanism such that the magnet moves along a magnet path with actuation of the lock or latch mechanism, the magnet having a magnetic axis which is directionally aligned with the magnet path, the magnet path passing both of the first and second sensor units, such that the module is configured to determine a current condition of the lock or latch mechanism by using the first and second sensor units to sense changes in a polarity of a sensed magnetic field generated by the magnet as the magnet moves along the magnet path.

The magnet path may extend from a first side of both the first and second sensor units to a second side of both the first and second sensor units.

The orientation of the magnet may be reversible with respect to the module and the module may include a controller which is configured to learn an orientation of the magnet using the first and second sensor units.

The controller may be further configured to generate a tamper alert in response to the first and/or second sensor units detecting a magnetic field from an external magnet.

The module may be configured to be attached to a first frame member of the door or window and the magnet may be configured to be attached to a second frame member of the door or window, the first and second frame members may be positioned adjacent each other when the window or door is in a closed condition, the first and second frame members may be configured to move apart from each other as the window or door moves towards an open condition, and the first and second sensor units may be configured to detect movement of the magnet away from the module to determine movement of the window or door to the open condition.

The magnet path may be a substantially linear path.

Another aspect provides a module for use in determining the condition of a latch or lock mechanism of a door or window, the module including: first and second sensor units configured to sense changes in a polarity of a sensed magnetic field of a magnet as the magnet moves along a magnet path, the magnet moving along the magnet path with actuation of a lock or latch mechanism between an unlocked and a locked condition, the magnet having a magnetic axis which is directionally aligned with the magnet path and the magnet path passing both of the first and second sensor units, such that the module determines a current condition of the lock or latch mechanism by using the sensed changes in the sensed polarity of a magnetic field generated by the magnet as the magnet moves along the magnet path.

The module may be configured such that the magnet path extends from a first side of both the first and second sensor units to a second side of both the first and second sensor units.

The orientation of the magnet may be reversible with respect to the module and the module includes a controller which is configured to learn an orientation of the magnet using the first and second sensor units.

The module may be configured to be attached to a first frame member of the door or window, with the magnet attached to a second frame member of the door or window, the first and second frame members may be positioned adjacent each other when the window or door is in a closed condition, the first and second frame members may be configured to move apart from each other as the window or door moves towards an open condition, and the first and second sensor units may be configured to detect movement of the magnet away from the module to determine movement of the window or door to the open condition.

Another aspect provides a method of operating a system in relation to a window or door having a lock or latch mechanism actuatable between a locked and an unlocked condition, the method including: providing a module including first and second sensor units; securing the module to a part of the window or door; providing a magnet configured to be attached to a part of the lock or latch mechanism such that the magnet moves along a magnet path with actuation of the lock or latch mechanism, the magnet having a magnetic axis which is directionally aligned with the magnet path, the magnet path passing both of the first and second sensor units; attaching the magnet to the part of the lock or latch mechanism; using the module to determine a current condition of the lock or latch mechanism by using the first and second sensor units to sense changes in a polarity of a sensed magnetic field generated by the magnet as the magnet moves along the magnet path.

The orientation of the magnet may be reversible with respect to the module, and the method may further include using a controller of the module to learn an orientation of the magnet using the first and second sensor units.

A method may further include using the controller to generate a tamper alert in response to the first and/or second sensor units detecting a magnetic field from an external magnet.

Securing the module to a part of the window or door may include attaching the module to a first frame member of the door or window, attaching the magnet to the part of the lock or latch mechanism includes attaching the magnet to a second frame member of the door or window, the first and second frame members being positioned adjacent each other when the window or door is in a closed condition, the first and second frame members being configured to move apart from each other as the window or door moves towards an open condition, and the method further including using the first and second sensor units to detect movement of the magnet away from the module to determine movement of the window or door to the open condition.

Accordingly, there is provided an attachment system for a door or window, the attachment system being configured to sense a condition of a door or window, the attachment system including: a securing member configured to be mounted to a frame member of the door or window; and a module, configured to be coupled to a frame member by attachment to the securing member, the module including a sensor to sense the condition of the door or window, and the securing member including a resiliently biased clip configured to retain the module in attachment to the securing member selectively, wherein the securing member is configured to space the module from at least part of the frame member such that the sensor is positioned to sense the condition of the door or window.

The securing member may be a substantially planar member.

The securing member may include fixing arrangement to secure the securing member to the frame member.

The fixing arrangement may include a fixing element and a fixing receiver, the fixing element may be configured to be received by the fixing receiver and to engage the frame member.

The securing member may include a body defining one or more grooves, the or each groove may be configured to receive at least part of the frame member.

The securing member may include a receiving configuration and the module may include one or more pins, the or each pin may be configured to be received by the receiving configuration, and the resilient clip may be configured to inhibit the removal of the or each pin from the receiving configuration selectively.

The receiving configuration may include an inclined locking surface configured to engage and guide part of at least one of the or each pin.

The resilient clip may include a drive surface and a latch surface, the module may include a latch element including a drive surface and a latch surface, the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element may be configured to engage as the module is secured to the securing member such that the latch surfaces of the resilient clip and latch element engage.

The resilient clip may be part of a coupling configuration of the securing member which further includes an elongate member and an actuation portion, wherein manual operation of the actuation portion may be configured to move at least part of the elongate member to release the resilient clip.

Another aspect provides a door or window including an attachment system.

The securing arrangement may be configured to fit between a frame of the door or window and a moveable panel of the door or window, such that the moveable panel may be moveable between open and closed conditions without the securing member fouling this operation of the door or window.

The securing member may be inaccessible when the door or window is in the closed condition.

The moveable panel may be configured to move with respect to the frame member when the door or window may be operated between the open and closed conditions.

The moveable panel may be configured to move with the frame member when the door or window is operated between the open and closed conditions.

Another aspect provides a door or window including a frame member and a securing member, wherein the securing member is suitable for use in an attachment system.

Another aspect provides a method of manufacturing a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window as above.

Another aspect provides a method of fitting a door or window including: providing a frame member; and securing a securing member to the frame member, wherein the door or window is a door or window as above.

Another aspect provides a method of fitting a module to a door or window, including: identifying a door or window as above; proving a module; and fitting the module to the securing member.

The method may further include operating the door or window to an open condition before fitting the module to the securing member.

Embodiments are described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

In accordance with embodiments, a door or window <NUM> may be provided (see <FIG>, for example).

The door or window <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> and a moveable panel <NUM> (the moveable panel <NUM> being moveable with respect to at least part of the frame <NUM>).

The frame <NUM> may include one or more frame members <NUM>. The one or more frame members <NUM> may define an aperture of the door or window <NUM>. In particular, the one or more frame members <NUM> may surround a perimeter of the aperture of the door or window <NUM>. In some embodiments, the aperture is generally rectangular, or square, or circular (but may be any suitable shape). Each of the one or more frame members <NUM> may extend along a portion of the perimeter of the aperture of the door or window <NUM>.

In the case of a rectangular aperture, the frame <NUM> may include a first pair of frame members 111a, each frame member <NUM> of the first pair 111a being arranged generally parallel to the other frame member <NUM> of the first pair 111a. The frame members <NUM> of the first pair 111a may be of substantially the same length and may be separated from each other across a width of the aperture. The length of the first pair of frame members 111a may define a height of the aperture. The frame <NUM> may include a second pair of frame members 111b, each frame member <NUM> of the second pair 111b being arranged generally parallel to the other frame member <NUM> of the second pair 111b. The frame members <NUM> of the second pair 111b may be of substantially the same length and may be separated from each other across a height of the aperture. The length of the second pair of frame members 111b may define a width of the aperture. The first pair of frame members 111a may be substantially perpendicular to the second pair of frame members 111b.

The panel <NUM> may be mounted to the frame <NUM> such that the panel <NUM> is rotatable with respect to at least one frame member <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, the panel <NUM> is mounted to the frame <NUM> using a hinge mechanism. In some embodiments, the panel <NUM> is mounted for rotation with respect to (and may be about an axis defined by) a one of the first pair of frame members 111a or a one of the second pair of frame members 111b.

Accordingly, the panel <NUM> may be moveable between open and closed conditions with respect to the frame <NUM> (e.g. by rotation with respect to at least one frame member <NUM>). In the open condition, the door or window aperture is at least partially open such that passage through the aperture is permitted. In the closed condition, the door or window aperture is closed or substantially closed such that passage through the aperture is inhibited or substantially prevented. The passage may be of a person or an object, for example.

The door or window <NUM> may include a lock or latch mechanism <NUM> (which may be a lock and latch mechanism). The lock or latch mechanism <NUM> may be configured to be actuated between a locked condition and an unlocked condition. In the locked condition, with the panel <NUM> in the closed condition, the panel <NUM> is restricted or substantially prevented from moving to the open condition. In the unlocked condition, the panel <NUM> may be permitted to move towards the open condition. The locked and unlocked conditions of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>, therefore, may correspond to locked and unlocked conditions of the door or window.

In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is a lock mechanism and a key may be required to actuate the lock mechanism between the locked and unlocked conditions. In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is a latch mechanism and a handle may be provided (as part of the latch mechanism) which may actuate the latch mechanism between the locked (or latched) condition and the unlocked (or unlatched) condition - the latch mechanism may not require a key for such actuation. In some embodiments, the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is a lock and latch mechanism such that the mechanism can be actuated between (i) a latched and locked condition, (ii) a latched and unlocked condition, and (ii) an unlocked and unlatched condition. Herein, unless otherwise stated, the reference to a locked condition may include a latched condition and the reference to a unlocked condition may include an unlatched condition (irrespective of whether this is also a reference to a locked and unlocked condition).

The lock or latch mechanism <NUM> could take a number of different forms. For example, the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> may include at least one first member moveable with respect to a second member between the unlocked/unlatched and locked/latched conditions. The first member may be a bolt and the second member may be a keep. In some embodiments, the first member is mounted on a locking bar (e.g. rail) and may be in the form of a pin, whilst the second member may be a receiver for the pin (to receive and retain the pin). The first member may be mounted to the panel <NUM> and the second member may be mounted to the frame <NUM> or vice versa. Other lock or latch mechanisms <NUM> are envisaged but will generally include a first member which moves with respect to a second member, which then receives the first member in the locked condition and releases the first member in the unlocked condition.

In some embodiments, at least part of the frame (such as a frame member <NUM>) is, in fact, part of another moveable panel <NUM> (e.g. in a multi-door arrangement) - the aperture of the door or window <NUM> being defined by another frame <NUM>, for example. In such embodiments, the first member may be mounted to a first panel and the second member to a second panel (the two panels being general adjacent each other when in the closed conditions).

In some embodiments, the frame member <NUM> is part of the moveable panel <NUM> and moves therewith. In such embodiments a further frame <NUM> may be provided to define the aperture of the door or window <NUM>.

In other words, the frame member <NUM> may be part of the frame <NUM> defining the aperture or may be part of the panel <NUM>.

Although panels <NUM> which rotate with respect to at least part of the frame <NUM> have been described above and elsewhere herein, some embodiments may include at least one panel <NUM> which is configured to slide linearly with respect to at least part of the frame <NUM> (or another panel <NUM> - so providing two panels <NUM> slideable with respect to each other, in some embodiments).

Embodiments include a module <NUM> (see <FIG> & <FIG>, for example). The module <NUM> is configured to be coupled to the frame member <NUM> of the door or window <NUM>, or to the panel <NUM>. The module <NUM> may house electrical or mechanical components.

The module <NUM> may be provided to allow sensing of the condition of the door or window <NUM>. The module <NUM> may, therefore, be configured to sense a condition of the door or window <NUM>.

The module <NUM> includes (and may house) a sensor <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> may be configured to sense the condition of the door or window <NUM>. For example, the sensor <NUM> may be configured to sense the position of the door or window panel <NUM> with respect to the frame <NUM> (for example, with respect to a frame member <NUM> or of the frame member <NUM> with respect to the frame <NUM> in embodiments in which the frame member <NUM> is part of the panel <NUM>). The sensor <NUM> may also or alternatively be configured to sense the condition of the latch or lock mechanism <NUM>.

For example, the sensor <NUM> may be in the form of or include a reed switch or a Hall Effect sensor (or a plurality of Hall Effect sensors H1,H2 - see <FIG>). A magnet <NUM> may be provided - see <FIG> and <FIG>, for example.

The magnet <NUM> may be provided in a magnet housing <NUM> - see <FIG> for example. The magnet housing <NUM> may include two parts which are configured to be secured to each other and within which the magnet <NUM> may be provided. A first part of the magnet housing <NUM> may be secured to a second part of the magnet housing <NUM> by one or more securing members which may be in the form of a screw or clip, for example. In some embodiments, the first and second parts of the magnet housing <NUM> are additionally or alternatively adhered together. In some embodiments, such as depicted in <FIG>, for example, each of the first and second parts of the magnet housing <NUM> includes a mushroom-shaped member which is configured to be received by an aperture defined in the other of the first and second parts, in order to secure to the two parts together. The two parts may each define at least part of a magnet receiving recess such that, with the two parts secured to each other, the magnet <NUM> may be received within the magnet recess to retain the magnet in the magnet housing <NUM>.

The magnet housing <NUM> may have an external cross-sectional shape which is keyed or at least partially keyed to a magnet attachment point <NUM> - which may be in the form of an aperture of recess. The keyed or partially keyed arrangement may be such that the magnet <NUM> has a predefined orientation with respect to the magnet attachment point <NUM>, or may have one of two predefined orientations with respect to the magnet attachment point <NUM>.

As will be appreciated, the magnet <NUM> has two opposing poles, a north pole and a south pole - and an orientation of the magnet <NUM> may be understood to be defined by virtue of the north and south pole of the magnet <NUM>.

With the module <NUM> mounted to the frame <NUM>, the magnet <NUM> may be mounted to the panel <NUM>, or vice versa. The mounting may be via the magnet attachment point <NUM>. The magnet attachment point <NUM> may include an aperture or other recess formed in the panel <NUM>, or frame <NUM>. The mounting of the magnet <NUM> to the panel <NUM> or frame <NUM> (e.g. by use of the magnet attachment point <NUM> and/or the magnet housing <NUM>) may be such that the an axis of movement of first member with respect to the second member may be generally aligned with a magnetic axis of the magnet <NUM> (i.e. the magnetic axis is directionally aligned with the magnet path, which may mean that it is parallel thereto, for example). For example, in relation to <FIG> (for instance), there may be a locking bar (or rail) provided and the magnet <NUM> may be mounted thereto such that movement of the locking bar is along an axis which is parallel to the magnet axis of the magnet <NUM>. In <FIG>, this happens to a vertical axis. The magnet attachment point <NUM> may be an elongate slot and the magnet housing <NUM> may also, therefore, be elongate. The magnet <NUM> may be held in place by virtue of magnetic attraction, a mechanical clip, a screw, a rivet, and/or an adhesive, for example.

The magnet <NUM> may be located such that, with the door or window <NUM> in the closed condition, the sensor <NUM> (e.g. the reed switch) is actuated to an "on" state but with the door or window <NUM> in the open condition, the reed switch is in an "off" state. The magnet <NUM> may be mounted for movement with the first member (of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>) such that, with the door or window <NUM> in the locked condition, the sensor <NUM> (e.g. reed switch) is actuated to an "on" state but with the door or window <NUM> in the unlocked condition, the sensor <NUM> (e.g. the reed switch) is in an "off" state.

In some embodiments, the sensor <NUM> may be a mechanical switch rather than a reed switch, for example. The mechanical switch may be actuated between on and off states by physical contact, for example. The mechanical switch may be a micro-switch.

As described, in some embodiments, the sensor <NUM> may include at least one Hall Effect sensor H1,H2 and, in some embodiments, may include at least two Hall Effect sensors H1,H2. The operation of some such embodiments is discussed herein with reference to <FIG>, for example.

The sensor <NUM> may be a motion or proximity sensor which does not require physical contact for actuation - a reed switch or a Hall Effect sensor being one example of such a sensor <NUM> another example being an induction coil, for example.

For the correct operation of the sensor <NUM>, the module <NUM> may therefore need to be located on the frame <NUM> or panel <NUM> in close proximity to the other of the frame <NUM> or panel <NUM> when the window or door <NUM> is in the closed condition and/or in close proximity to the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> (e.g. when in the locked condition). The module <NUM> must not, however, foul the operation of the door or window <NUM>, or the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>. The spacing of the module <NUM> with respect to the frame member <NUM> may, therefore, be important.

The module <NUM> may include (and may house) a power source <NUM>, for powering powered elements of the module <NUM>, or may include a connection (for example, a port or other socket to allow connection of a cable) for connecting the module <NUM> to a power source <NUM>. For example, the module <NUM> may be connectable to a mains electrical power supply. In some embodiments, the power source <NUM> is in the form of a battery. The battery may be a rechargeable battery and the power source may include a connection (such as a port or other socket) to enable recharging of the battery. In some embodiments, the battery is not rechargeable. In some embodiments, the battery is replaceable such that the battery is removable from the module <NUM> and can be replaced without substantive damage to the module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the battery is not replaceable - such that the module <NUM> may be a so-called sealed unit - and removal of the battery from the module <NUM> may, therefore, damage to the module <NUM> or may require specialist tools.

An example module <NUM> with a replaceable battery is shown in <FIG> (in relation to which <FIG> may be of the same module <NUM>). In relation to the module <NUM> of <FIG> and some other embodiments, the module may include a battery cover <NUM>. The battery cover <NUM> may be configured to be at least partially removed from the rest of the module <NUM> to allow access to a battery for replacement. Access may also be provided, via the movement of the battery cover <NUM> for maintenance, for example. The battery cover <NUM> may be hinged (e.g. along a first edge (which is generally the lower edge as depicted in <FIG>)). The battery cover <NUM> may be removable such that it is detached from the rest of the module <NUM> for example. In some embodiments, the battery cover <NUM> is held in place (i.e. in a closed configuration) with respect to the rest of the module <NUM> by one or more cam members <NUM> of a cover securing mechanism. The or each cam member <NUM> may be rotatably coupled to the module <NUM> (for rotation with respect to the battery cover <NUM>. The or each cam member <NUM> may be configured to rotate between a respective unlatch and latched position. With the or each cam member <NUM> in its unlatched position, the or each cam member <NUM> may be configured to pass through a respective aperture <NUM> defined through the battery cover <NUM>. This enables the battery cover <NUM> to be placed into the closed configuration. The or each cam member <NUM> may then be rotated such that at least part of the or each cam member <NUM> engages a part of the battery cover <NUM> to inhibit its removal (i.e. to inhibit its movement out of the closed configuration into an open configuration). The or each cam member <NUM> may include a slot for use in rotating that cam member <NUM> (e.g. through engagement with a screw driver or coin). The or each aperture <NUM> for receiving the cam member(s) <NUM> may be located towards a second edge of the battery cover <NUM> which may oppose the first edge across a length thereof. The first edge, if not coupled to the rest of the module <NUM> by a hinge, may be coupled to the rest of the module by virtue of one or more tags thereof being received in respective recess(es) of the rest of the module <NUM> or behind an outer wall of the rest of the module <NUM>.

The module <NUM> may include (and may house) a controller <NUM>, for example to control operation of the sensor <NUM> and/or to receive information from the sensor <NUM>. The module <NUM> may include a processor <NUM>, configured to process sensed information from the sensor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> is provided as part of the processor <NUM> and/or is the processor <NUM>.

The module <NUM> may include (and may house) a communications subsystem <NUM>. The communications setup <NUM> may be configured to communicate with another device and that communication may be wireless communication or may be over a wired communication channel or both. The communications subsystem <NUM> may include a transmitter and/or a receiver, or only a transceiver (i.e. without a receiver). The communication subsystem <NUM> may be configured to communicate with another device using radio frequency waves - for example, using WiFi ® or Zigbee ® or Bluetooth ®, or a similar radio frequency protocol.

The communication subsystem <NUM> may be operated by the controller/processor <NUM>/<NUM> and may be powered by the power source <NUM>.

The communications subsystem <NUM> may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window <NUM> (as sensed by the sensor <NUM>) to a hub 24a. The hub 24a may be configured to collect and/or forward the received information to yet another device (such as a server, for example). The hub 24a may, therefore, provide an interface between the communication channel used to communicate with the module <NUM> (which may be relatively short range communication and may be a local area network) and the communication channel used to communicate with the yet another device (which may be relatively long range communication and may be a wide area network such as the Internet).

In some embodiments, a user may use a computing device (such as a mobile telephone, laptop, desktop, tablet, or the like) to interrogate the hub 24a and/or the yet another device to obtain information about the condition of the door or window <NUM>. The computing device may be configured to receive this information and to present an indication to the user about the current condition of the door or window <NUM> (e.g. a visual indication about the state of the door or window <NUM> in substantially real-time and/or a historic record of changes in that state).

The communications subsystem <NUM> may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window <NUM> to the hub 24a or another device periodically or on request from the hub 24a or other device.

Likewise, the hub 24a may be configured to deliver information about the condition of the door or window <NUM> to another device periodically or on request.

The module <NUM> may include (and may house) a computer readable medium <NUM> storing instructions which, when executed by the processor/controller <NUM>/<NUM> cause the performance of the operations of the module <NUM> - such as the sensing of the condition of the door or window <NUM> and the transmission of that condition.

The module <NUM> may be a self-contained unit. The module <NUM> may be a sealed unit. The module <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> in which the various components thereof are located. The housing <NUM> may be sealed against the ingress of water. The housing <NUM> may be such that opening of the housing <NUM> to access the internal components of the module <NUM> may cause damage to the housing <NUM> or may require specialist tools.

In some embodiments, the housing <NUM> is a two-part housing including a main part and a lid part - the main and lid parts being configured to be coupled together to provide the housing <NUM>. The lid part may be removably coupled to the main part. One or more fixing elements may be provided to enable to the main part and the lid part to the coupled to each other - such as one or more threaded members such as a screw (which may, as depicted for example, have a Torx® head or other suitable specialist alternative). The main part and the lid part may have correspondingly shaped mating edges and these edges may include one or more locating features (such as a protrusion and corresponding cut-out) in order to aid in fitting of the lid part to the main part.

The module <NUM> may include a front portion <NUM> which, when fitted as described herein, is generally visible to the user (when the door or window <NUM> is in the open condition) and may include a back portion <NUM> which may couple the module <NUM> to the frame <NUM> or panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the main part of the housing <NUM> provides the back portion <NUM> and the lid part provides the front portion <NUM>.

The front portion <NUM> may be in the form of a fascia and/or may include one or more decorative elements.

The housing <NUM> may include a stepped feature such that a first part of the housing <NUM> has a first depth and a second part of the housing <NUM> has a second depth (the first depth being greater than the second depth). In some embodiments, the housing <NUM> is of a substantially uniform depth along its length (although the depth may taper towards the sides) - see <FIG>, for example.

In some embodiments, at least part of the sensor <NUM> may be positioned relatively closer to the front portion <NUM> than the back portion <NUM>, and may, indeed, extend from the front portion <NUM> (in a direction away from both the front and back portions <NUM>,<NUM>).

In some embodiments, the housing <NUM> may include a raised section (which may be raised from the first and/or second part of the housing <NUM>) which may contain the sensor <NUM> or at least part thereof.

The stepped feature (and/or the raised section) may aid the user in the fitting of the module <NUM>, as will be apparent from the description in this regard presented herein, by proving a means for better application of a manual force to the module <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> may be generally rectangular (e.g. a rounded rectangle) - although other shapes are envisaged. One or more corners of the housing <NUM> may be rounded at a different radius than one or more other corners of the housing <NUM>.

The module <NUM> may include a coupling arrangement <NUM> and this may be at least partially located on or as part of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the module <NUM>.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the coupling arrangement <NUM> includes one or more pins <NUM> which may extend from a main surface of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The or each pin <NUM> may extend generally perpendicular to a plane of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The or each pin <NUM> may be generally mushroom shaped - such that a proximal end nearest the main surface of the back portion <NUM> has a first cross-section and a distal end remote from the proximal end has a second cross-section which is larger (in at least one dimension) than the first cross-section. The or each pin <NUM> may have a circular cross-section (and the first and/or second cross-sections may be circular or rectangular) - although other shapes are envisaged (such as a stadium-shaped cross-section). In some embodiments, the or each pin <NUM> may, therefore, include a shaft (with the first cross-section) and a head (with the second cross-section). In some embodiments in which the or each pin <NUM> has a stadium-shaped cross-section, the flat parts thereof may be arranged at top and bottom parts of the or each pin <NUM>, and the rounded parts thereof may be arranged at side parts of the or each pin <NUM> (with the module <NUM> an upright configuration as depicted). In some embodiments, such as in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, the head of the or each pin <NUM> may be generally D-shaped and/or may extend with respect to the shaft of that pin <NUM> (perpendicular to a longitudinal axis thereof) in a first direction but not in an opposing second direction (e.g. to form an overhang over at least part of the shaft but not an overhand in all directions).

In the depicted and some other embodiments, there may be two pins <NUM> provided. In some embodiments which include a battery cover <NUM>, at least one pin <NUM> may be provided on the battery cover <NUM> (and another pin <NUM>, if provided, may be provided on another part of the back portion <NUM> of the module <NUM> (the battery cover <NUM> being part of the back portion <NUM>)).

In some embodiments (including those depicted), the coupling arrangement <NUM> includes one or more latch elements <NUM>. The or each latch element <NUM> may include a recess in a main surface of the housing <NUM> (which may be the main surface of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>) and/or a protrusion from a main surface of the housing <NUM> (which, again, may be the main surface of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>).

In some embodiments, including those depicted in <FIG> for example, there is at least one latch element <NUM> in the form of a protrusion with a triangular or partially triangular cross-section. The protrusion may, therefore, include a drive surface 272a and a latch surface 272b. The drive surface 272a may be inclined with respect to the main surface of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, for example. The latch surface 272b may extend perpendicular to the main surface of the back portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, for example. The drive surface 272a may be inclined with respect to a direction of movement of the housing <NUM> (and/or module <NUM>) when fitting the module <NUM> - as will be apparent from the relevant parts of the description herein.

In embodiments in which the at least one latch element <NUM> includes a recess, the recess may be similarly shaped to have a drive surface and a latch surface.

In some embodiments, including those depicted in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the at least one latch element <NUM> may be in the form of a button <NUM> located within an aperture <NUM> (i.e. a button aperture). The button <NUM> may be axially movable within the button aperture <NUM> between actuated and unactuated positions - as described herein - with respect to the rest of the module <NUM>. The button aperture <NUM> may extend through an entire depth of the module <NUM>. A head of the button <NUM> may be accessible for manual actuation from the front portion <NUM> of the module <NUM> and a driver of the button <NUM> may be located towards the back portion <NUM> of the module <NUM>. The head and driver of the button <NUM> may be integrally formed. The button <NUM> may, therefore, have a mushroom-like shape - see <FIG>, for example. The button <NUM> may be connected to the rest of the module <NUM> such that it is trapped within the button aperture <NUM> (allowing limited movement between the actuated and unactuated positions). This may be achieved by, for example, the use of a collar within the button aperture <NUM>, and/or the provision of a living hinge between the button <NUM> and the rest of the module <NUM>, and/or the use of a flexible coupling between the button <NUM> and the rest of the module <NUM> and/or the button <NUM> may be trapped between the two parts (<NUM>,<NUM>) of the two-part housing <NUM> - see <FIG>, for example, in which a flange 273a of the button <NUM> is so trapped.

The button aperture <NUM> may be located in a recess in the front portion <NUM> of the module <NUM> and the recess may be configured to at least partially receive a digit during manual operation of the button <NUM>.

In some embodiments, including those depicted, the or each pin <NUM> and the or each latch element <NUM> may be aligned along a common axis, which may be a longitudinal axis of the housing <NUM> (and this axis may be generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of a frame member <NUM> to which the module <NUM> is to be coupled). In at least the depicted embodiments, this a vertical axis with the module <NUM> fitted.

Embodiments include a securing member <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>, for example). The securing member <NUM> may be configured to be fixed to the frame <NUM> or to the panel <NUM> (e.g. the frame member <NUM>). The module <NUM> may be configured to be fixed to the securing member <NUM>. Accordingly, the module <NUM> may be attached to the frame <NUM> or panel <NUM> using (i.e. via) the securing member <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> may be sandwiched between the module <NUM> and the frame member <NUM> when so secured in place.

In some embodiments, the module <NUM> is secured to the frame member <NUM> solely by the securing member <NUM> and, in some such embodiments, no part of the module <NUM> touches or is otherwise in direct contact with the frame member <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> may include a body <NUM>. The body <NUM> may include a fixing arrangement <NUM> for use in securing the securing member <NUM> to the frame member <NUM>. The fixing arrangement <NUM> could take a number of different forms and may include more than one element.

For example, the fixing arrangement <NUM> may include a clip, hook or the like, configured to engage a part of the frame member <NUM>. The fixing arrangement <NUM> may include a portion of the body <NUM> which can be moved with respect to another portion of the body <NUM> so as to increase a dimension of the body <NUM> an enable the body <NUM> to be secured between two opposing parts of the frame member <NUM>, for example (i.e. in an outward clamping action). Likewise, the fixing arrangement <NUM> may include a portion of the body <NUM> which can be moved with respect to another portion of the body <NUM> so as to decrease a distance between the two portions to enable the two portions to clamp a part of the frame member <NUM> therebetween, for example (i.e. in an inward clamping action).

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the fixing arrangement <NUM> may include a fixing element 32a which is configured to be received by or otherwise mate with a fixing receiver 32b provided as part of the body <NUM>. The fixing receiver 32b may be a through-hole defined by the body <NUM> or a slot defined by the body <NUM>, for example. The fixing element 32a may be screw (which may be a self-tapping screw), a rivet, a nut and bolt arrangement, a nail, or the like.

In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement <NUM> may be or include an adhesive (such as an adhesive covered pad which may be sandwiched between the body <NUM> and the frame member <NUM>).

The body <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> may have an outer face (i.e. a face which is opposite an inner face which is secured to face the frame member <NUM>) which is generally rectangular in shape, for example but other shapes are envisaged. In the depicted and some other embodiments, the outer face has a first part which is generally rectangular and a second part which extends therefrom and which is generally triangular (or a trapezoid). The inner face may be of generally the same shape as the outer face and a depth of the securing member <NUM> (and body <NUM>) may be defined between the inner and outer faces thereof. As will be appreciated, the shapes of the inner and outer faces may define at least part of a shape of the body <NUM> and, therefore, the securing member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the fixing arrangement <NUM> may be located generally centrally with respect the securing member <NUM>. In some embodiments, this may be generally through or adjacent part of the rectangular part of the outer and/or inner faces.

In some embodiments, more than one such fixing arrangement <NUM> is provided. Each fixing arrangement <NUM> in such embodiments may be spaced apart across the body <NUM> - e.g. there may be a plurality of fixing receivers 32b each configured to receive a fixing element 32a. This is the case, for example, in the embodiment depicted in <FIG>.

The fixing element 32a (or each fixing element 32a in some embodiments) may be configured to be countersunk with respect to the body <NUM> and outer face - such that, for example, no part of the fixing element 32a extends substantially above the outer face. The fixing receiver 32b (or fixing receivers 32b in some embodiments) may be correspondingly formed, therefore, to allow for this countersunk configuration.

In some embodiments, there is a single (i.e. one and only one) fixing arrangement <NUM>. In some embodiments, there are two fixing arrangements <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as mentioned, the fixing element 32a may be a self-tapping screw which is configured to be passed through the fixing receiver 32b and then driven into the frame <NUM> (e.g. the frame member <NUM>).

Accordingly, the securing mechanism <NUM> may be secured to the frame <NUM> (e.g. to the frame member <NUM> - which may be a frame member <NUM> of the first pair 111a or the second pair 111b - or the panel <NUM> (as discussed herein the frame member <NUM> may be parts of the panel <NUM> rather than the frame <NUM>).

The securing member <NUM> and, in some embodiments, the body <NUM> may define one or more grooves <NUM>. The or each groove <NUM> may be defined in the inner face of the body <NUM>. The or each groove <NUM> may be a linear groove <NUM>. The or each groove <NUM> may be configured to receive a part of the frame member <NUM>.

In particular, the frame member <NUM> may include one or more elongate projections along a length thereof. Such elongate projections may be configured for use in the fitting of a seal member to the frame member <NUM>, or may be part of the structure of the frame member <NUM> to improve rigidity thereof, for example.

The or each groove <NUM> may extend through an entire length of a part of the securing member <NUM> (e.g. the body <NUM>) and this may be the trapezoid part of the body <NUM> in some embodiments. The or each groove <NUM> may be open ended. The or each groove <NUM> may help in the locating of the securing member <NUM> with respect to the frame member <NUM>. Accordingly, the or each groove <NUM> may be positioned in the body <NUM> at a position determined by the configuration of the frame member <NUM>.

The securing member <NUM> may include a coupling configuration <NUM>. The coupling configuration <NUM> of the securing member <NUM> may be configured to mate with or otherwise receive (or engage) at least part of the coupling arrangement <NUM> of the module <NUM> - herein referred to as the fitting of the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>. The fitting of the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>, using the coupling configuration <NUM> and the coupling arrangement <NUM>, may secure the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the coupling configuration <NUM> includes a receiving configuration <NUM> to engage the coupling arrangement <NUM> or a part thereof (such as a clip or hook). In some embodiments, the arrangement is the other way around and the coupling configuration <NUM> may include a hook or clip and the coupling arrangement <NUM> may include the receiving configuration.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the receiving configuration <NUM> includes at least one aperture 341a (defined in the body <NUM>, for example). There may be a corresponding number of apertures 341a to the number of pins <NUM>, for example - with each aperture 341a configured to receive a pin <NUM>. Accordingly, the location of the or each aperture 341a may correspond with the location of the or each pin <NUM> to allow the fixing as described herein of the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>.

The or each aperture 341a may be a through-hole (or slot) in the body <NUM> or may be a blind-hole (or slot) in the outer face of the body <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a first of the one or more apertures 341a may be joined by a channel 341c to a second of the one or more apertures 341a - see <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, for example.

In some embodiments, the or each aperture 341a may include two respective parts - a wide part and a narrow part, the two parts may be along different lengths of the or each aperture 341a which may be in the form of a slot (which may also, as will be appreciated have a depth through the body <NUM>. The wide part may be sized to allow the head of the corresponding pin <NUM> therethrough and the narrow part may be sized to prevent the head of the corresponding pin <NUM> from passing therethrough (but still sufficiently large to receive the neck of the pin <NUM>). Accordingly, a pin <NUM> may be inserted into the corresponding aperture 341a through the wide part and then moved (linearly) across the aperture 341a until the neck of the pin <NUM> is passing through the narrow part and the head cannot be removed from the aperture 341a (other than be reversing the linear movement to align the head of the pin <NUM> with the wide part again). This is shown in stages, in relation to some embodiments, in <FIG> and <FIG>, for example.

In some embodiments, the narrow part may be part of the channel 341c - see <FIG>, for example.

As depicted, and in some other embodiments, there may two such apertures 341a and two such pins <NUM>. There may be more than one receiving configuration <NUM>. The two (or more) apertures 341a may be aligned with each other along a common axis.

The coupling configuration <NUM> may include a resiliently biased clip <NUM>. The resiliently biased clip <NUM> may be configured to retain the module <NUM> selectively with the coupling configuration <NUM> and coupling arrangement <NUM> engaged with each other (so that the module <NUM> is fixed to the securing member <NUM>).

The resilient biased clip <NUM> may be configured to engage at least of the module <NUM> to retain the module <NUM> in position with respect to the securing member <NUM>. In particular, in some embodiments, with the one or more pins <NUM> retained by the receiving configuration <NUM> (e.g. the at least one aperture 341a), the resiliently biased clip <NUM> may selectively prevent disengagement of the or each pin <NUM> from the or each receiving configuration <NUM>. This may, include, for example, preventing (selectively) movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM> such that the respective heads of the or each pin <NUM> are not aligned with the wide part of the corresponding aperture 341a (e.g. such that the neck part remains aligned with the narrow part of the corresponding aperture 341a).

The resilient clip <NUM> may be configured to engage (selectively) the or each latch element <NUM>.

Accordingly, the resilient clip <NUM> may include a non-return clip 342a which is configured to engage at least one of the one or more latch elements <NUM>. The non-return clip 342a may have a generally triangular cross-section with an inclined drive surface 342aa and a latch surface 342ab. The drive surface 342aa of the non-return clip 342a may be sized and positioned so as to abut the drive surface 272a of a corresponding latch element <NUM>. The continued linear movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM> against this abutment may cause deflection (against the resilient biasing force of the resiliently biased clip <NUM>) until the two drive surfaces 342aa,272a have passed over each other. The biasing force may then cause the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab to engage each other. These two latch surfaces 272b,342ab may be configured such that, when so engaged, reversal of the linear movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing mechanism <NUM> is substantially prevented.

The non-return clip 342a may be mounted on a part of the resiliently biased clip <NUM> which may provide the resilient biasing force. Accordingly the non-return clip 342a may be a member without any resilient biasing itself (which may be provided by another part of the resiliently biased clip <NUM>). This part may be an elongate member <NUM> extending from the body <NUM>, for example. The elongate member <NUM> may be formed form the same material as the body <NUM> (e.g. a plastics material). The resilient biasing force may be provided by virtue of the rigidity of the material used to form the elongate member <NUM> and/or the body <NUM>. There may, however, be sufficient flexibility in the elongate member <NUM> and/or its coupling to the body <NUM> to permit deflection to allow the two drive surfaces 272a,342aa to move over each other. This flexibility may be provided, in part, by a living hinge (which may be a relatively stiff living hinge) between the elongate member <NUM> and the body <NUM>.

The elongate member <NUM> may extend with respect to the body <NUM> from a side thereof (which may, in the depicted embodiments, be a top side of the body <NUM>). The elongate member <NUM> may be a generally planar member with respect to the main body <NUM>.

The resiliently biased clip <NUM> may include an actuation portion 343a. The actuation portion 343a may be a button and/or may be configured to be manually operated by a user.

In the depicted and some other embodiments, the actuation portion 343a is located at a distal end of the elongate member <NUM> (the proximal end being coupled to the body <NUM>). The actuation portion 343a may include a head which is configured to enable relatively easy manual operation by the user. In some embodiments (e.g. such as those depicted), actuating the actuation portion 343a may require an external force (e.g. from a user's digit) to move the actuation portion 343a against the biasing force of the resiliently biased clip <NUM> to disengage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab (to allow reversal of the movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM>, as described herein). For example, a user may press the actuation portion 343a and this may disengage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab.

The head of the actuation portion 343a may have a depth which is greater than another part of the elongate member <NUM> (e.g. a part which is behind the module <NUM> when that module <NUM> is so fitted) - to make it easier for the user to actuate when the module <NUM> fitted to the securing member <NUM>. The head may have a semi-circular cross-section, for example - although other shapes are envisaged. The head may be located to a side (e.g. a top side) of the module <NUM>, with the module <NUM> fitted to the securing member <NUM>. This may be achieved by virtue of the length, for example of the elongate member <NUM>.

As will be appreciated, the orientation of the resiliently biased clip <NUM> must, in some embodiments, be aligned with that of the receiving configuration <NUM>. This enables the receipt of the or each pin <NUM> in one or more respective apertures 341a and the linear movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM> to engage the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab.

This engagement may then prevent the reverse movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the actuation portion 343a is configured to engage the button <NUM> and this may occur within the button aperture <NUM>, for example. The engagement may be such that the actuation portion 343a engages the driver of the button <NUM>. The actuation portion 343a may be a domed member in some embodiments, and the driver of the button <NUM> may be correspondingly shaped to receive at least part of the domed actuation portion 343a. This can be seen in, for example, <FIG>,b. Retention of the actuation portion 343a at least partially within the button aperture <NUM> may hold the module <NUM> in place with respect to the securing member <NUM> - with the button in the unactuated position. Actuation of the button <NUM> (to the actuated position) may depress the actuation portion 343a (which may be resiliently biased, e.g. by a living hinge, into engagement with the button <NUM>) may allow the release of the module from the securing member <NUM>, for example (by movement of the actuation portion 343a out of the button aperture <NUM>). This arrangement may be present embodiments including the button <NUM>, for example. Actuation portion 343a may be considered to be a resilient clip, for example. In some such embodiments, therefore, the actuation port 343a is indirectly operated, by intermediate use of the button <NUM> (said button <NUM> being, for example, manually operated by a user digit in some embodiments).

Although embodiments have been depicted and described with linear movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM>, rotational movement is also possible in some embodiments (e.g. using at least one arcuate aperture 341a). In some embodiments, movement of the module <NUM> into engagement with the securing member <NUM> is against gravity (e.g. an upward movement).

In either case, of linear or rotational movement, the movement is a sliding movement and the description should be construed accordingly.

In some embodiments, the or each aperture 341a includes (i.e. is at least partially defined by) a locking surface 341b of the body <NUM>. This locking surface 341b may be configured to engage at least part of a respective received pin <NUM> (e.g. a part of the head of that pin <NUM>). The locking surface 341b may be inclined with respect to the inner and/or outer face of the body <NUM> such that the received part of the pin <NUM> (e.g. the head) is forced rearwardly (e.g. in a depth direction) as the pin <NUM> passes into the narrow part of the aperture 341a (see the figures). In some embodiments, the aperture 341a may include an internal shelf which provides the locking surface 341b. The shelf may extend around or along part of an internal circumference or perimeter of the aperture 341a and/or the channel 341c if provided, and may be U-shaped. In some embodiments, a single aperture 341a has a locking surface 341b. In some embodiments, some or all of a plurality of apertures 341a may include respective locking surfaces 341b. The use of the or each locking surface 341b may assist in retaining the module <NUM> in place with respect to the securing member <NUM> (in combination with the engagement of the two latch surfaces 272b,342ab, for example).

The locking surface 341b may be in the form of a taper lock, for example a <NUM>° taper lock (in particular, the locking surface 341b may be at an angle of around <NUM>° from a main plane of the main body <NUM>) - see the figures.

In some embodiments, the channel 341c is provided with internally projecting ridges along its outer edges which are configured to retain at least part of a pin <NUM> passing along the channel 341c - best seen in <FIG>.

The frame member <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> may be fitted could have a number of different profiles (i.e. cross-sectional shapes). As described the frame member <NUM> may be a part of the frame <NUM> in relation to which the panel <NUM> moves or may, indeed, be part of a frame of the panel <NUM> (which may move with respect to another frame or other panel <NUM>).

In any event, however, when the door or window <NUM> is in the closed condition, a channel may be defined between at least part of the panel <NUM> and the frame <NUM>. This channel may accommodate, for example, parts of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> and may provide sufficient space for this to operate freely.

The channel may be generally inaccessible from the exterior of the window or door <NUM> when in the closed condition. In some embodiments, the frame member <NUM> may be such that there is at least one edge lip extending along an outer and/or inner edge of the frame member <NUM> along its length and at least partially defining the channel.

In some embodiments, the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> are entirely or substantially entirely contained within the channel. With respect to a frame member <NUM>, a volume may be defined between the outer and inner edge of the frame member <NUM> along its length and the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> may be entirely or substantially entirely contained within this volume.

The securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> may be sized and shaped such that, when fitted, they do not foul the operation of the door or window <NUM> - as it changes condition between the open and closed conditions and/or between the locked and unlocked conditions.

The body <NUM> (and/or the entire securing member <NUM>) may have a width equal to, substantially equal to, or less than the width of the channel. The body <NUM> may have a width equal to, substantially equal to, or less than a depth of the frame member <NUM>.

As will be understood from the description herein, at least part of the frame member <NUM> may be received by at least part of the securing member <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> and frame member <NUM> may, therefore, interlock.

The securing member <NUM> may be a packer, for example. As such, the securing member <NUM> may provide a spacing function to ensure that the module <NUM> is correctly located to sense the condition of the door or window <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> (and, in some embodiments the magnet housing <NUM>) are entirely or substantially entirely contained within the channel. With respect to a frame member <NUM>, a volume may be defined between the outer and inner edge of the frame member <NUM> along its length and the magnet <NUM> (and, in some embodiments the magnet housing <NUM>) may be entirely or substantially entirely contained within this volume.

The magnet <NUM> (and, in some embodiments the magnet housing <NUM>) may be sized and shaped such that, when fitted, they do not foul the operation of the door or window <NUM> - as it changes condition between the open and closed conditions and/or between the locked and unlocked conditions.

When the door or window <NUM> is in the closed condition, the channel may not be accessible - i.e. the panel <NUM> may prevent access by blocking off any part of the channel that would be open if the door or window <NUM> were in the open condition. Therefore, a potential burglar may be prevented or hindered from accessing the module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a window or door fitter may fit the securing member <NUM> to the frame <NUM> during installation of the window or door <NUM>. This may include selection of the correct securing member <NUM> from a plurality of securing members <NUM> for the frame member <NUM>. The fitter may then position the securing member <NUM> in the correct location to ensure that the module <NUM> operates correctly. The fitter may secure the securing member <NUM> using the fixing arrangement <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more markers <NUM> (which may be grooves in the body <NUM> or printed on the body <NUM>, for example) may be used by the fitter for alignment of the securing member <NUM> at the correct location with respect to the frame member <NUM> and/or the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>.

The window or door <NUM> may then be used as normal.

The user may then, at some later time, decide to install the module <NUM>. The user may be aware that the window or door <NUM> is configured to receive a module <NUM> by virtue of the presence of the securing member <NUM>. The securing member <NUM> may carry information or indicators to provide the user with information as to the type of module <NUM> which may be fitted to the securing member <NUM>. The indicators may include at least one arrow and/or line or other marking <NUM> indicating a boundary of the part of the securing member <NUM> covered by the module <NUM>, when the module <NUM> is correctly fitted.

The user may fit the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM> by positioning the module <NUM> such that the coupling arrangement <NUM> engages the coupling configuration <NUM>. For example, such that the or each pin <NUM> is received by a respective receiving configuration <NUM> (such as an aperture 341a). In some embodiments, the resiliently biased clip <NUM> is then operated to secure the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>. For example, the module <NUM> may be moved linearly (or rotationally) with respect to the securing member <NUM>. In some embodiments, this movement is a vertical movement upwards, against gravity. In some embodiments, this movement in parallel to a longitudinal axis of the frame member <NUM>. This movement may move the or each pin <NUM> within the or each receiving configuration <NUM> (e.g. aperture 341a). The drive surfaces 342aa, 272a may engage as described herein and continued movement of the module <NUM> may cause the latch surfaces 272b,342ab to engage each other. The operation of the resiliently biased clip <NUM> may, therefore, be automatic on movement of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM>. The module <NUM> may be substantially prevented from being released from the securing member <NUM>.

The module <NUM> may then be located correctly for operation (e.g. correctly spaced from the frame member <NUM>).

Similarly, the magnet <NUM> may be fitted to the magnet attachment point <NUM> (which may also be accessible from the channel and so only when the window or door is open). The magnet <NUM> may be fitted to the magnet attachment point <NUM> by insertion, for example, to the magnet <NUM> (which may be housed in the magnet housing <NUM>) into the magnet attachment point <NUM>. The magnet <NUM> and/or the magnet housing <NUM> may be at least partially received by the magnet attachment point <NUM>.

One or more indicators <NUM> may be provided on the securing member <NUM> to confirm the correct location of the module <NUM> with respect to the securing member <NUM> - such as indicators for alignment with an edge or other extremity of the module <NUM>.

The module <NUM> may be removed by use of the actuation portion 343a as described herein. This may require actuation of the button <NUM> in embodiments including this button <NUM>, for example.

Accordingly, the module <NUM> may be fitted and/or replaced without the need for tools and by a relatively unskilled user.

In some embodiments, the fitter may install a dummy module <NUM> which may need to be removed before a module <NUM> is fitted by the user. The dummy module <NUM> may be the same as a module <NUM> described herein but may be non-functional and may not include the processor <NUM>, controller <NUM>, sensor <NUM>, and computer readable medium <NUM>.

As described, some embodiments include a sensor <NUM> with at least two Hall Effect sensors H1,H2. These are examples of sensor units H1,H2 which are capable of sensing a magnetic field. These sensor units H1,H2 may be configured to sense a magnetic field in a single (i.e. one and only one) sensing axis, for example (which may be a sensing axis which is common to both sensor units H1,H2). The sensor units H1,H2 may be arranged within the module <NUM> such that the magnet <NUM> moves with respect to the sensor units H1,H2 from a position to a first side of both of the two sensor units H1,H2 to a position to a second side of both of the sensor units H1, H2 as the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated between the locked condition and the unlocked condition (passing the two sensor units H1,H2 during this movement). This is generally described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> show the magnet <NUM> schematically represented and mounted for movement with a part of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> - such that the position of the magnet <NUM> with respect to the sensor units H1,H2 changes as the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated between the locked and unlocked conditions.

The sensor units H1,H2 forming parts of the sensor <NUM> are schematically depicted as mounted to a circuit board, for example.

As will be understood, <FIG> do not show other features of the embodiments - including other features of the module <NUM> - for the sake of simplicity of explanation.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration, the sensor units H1,H2 may be located along a path of the magnet <NUM> but spaced apart therefrom (and in practice other parts of the module <NUM> may be located between the sensor units H1,H2 and the magnet <NUM>, for example). The magnet <NUM>, with the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration, may travel along the path and that path may have a path axis. The sensor units H1,H2 may be aligned with that path axis, but offset with respect thereto (to provide non-contact sensing, for example). The sensor units H1,H2 may be said to have a sensing axis which is an axis which passes through both sensor units H1,H2 and which is parallel to the path axis.

The magnet <NUM> as a north pole N and a south pole S as depicted.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration and the magnet <NUM> located at a first side of both sensor units H1,H2, the lock or latch mechanism may be in the unlocked configuration. This is generally depicted in the upper drawing of <FIG> and represents an unlocked position for the magnet <NUM>.

If the moveable panel <NUM> is moved to the open configuration, then the magnet <NUM> will move further away from the sensor units H1,H2. With reference to <FIG> this may be a movement downwardly and/or into or out of the page, for example (depending on the type of door or window <NUM>).

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated to the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> moves along a magnet path (which may be a linear - i.e. substantially straight - path. The magnet <NUM> may, therefore, move past a first H1 of the sensor units H1,H2 to a position between the two sensor units H1,H2, and this is generally shown in the middle drawings of <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the sensor unit H1,H2 positions have been reversed, so that magnet <NUM> moves along the magnet path past a second H2 of the sensor units H1,H2 to a position between the two sensor units H1,H2 - see the middle drawings of <FIG> and <FIG>. This, in this interim position, the magnet <NUM> is to the first side of one sensor unit (the first sensor unit H1 in <FIG> and <FIG> but the second sensor unit H2 in <FIG> and <FIG>) and to a second side of the other sensor unit (the first sensor unit H1 in <FIG> and <FIG> but the second sensor unit H2 in <FIG> and <FIG>). This position may be referred to as an interim position and may form part of a movement to or from the locked configuration of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> reaches the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> has moved (along the magnet path) to a position at the second side of both of the sensor units H1,H2. The magnet <NUM> may, therefore, move (i.e. continue) past the second H2 of the sensor units H1,H2 and this is generally shown in the bottom drawings of <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, the sensor unit H1,H2 positions have been reversed, so that magnet <NUM> moves along the magnet path past the first H1 of the sensor units H1,H2 to a position at the second side of both sensor units H1,H2 - see the bottom drawings of <FIG> and <FIG>. This may be referred to as a locked position of the magnet <NUM>.

Therefore, for example, when moving from the unlocked to the locked configuration of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>, the magnet <NUM> may move along the magnet path as depicted sequentially in figured <NUM>-<NUM> from the top drawings thereof to the bottom. When the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> moves from the locked to the unlocked configuration, the movement along the magnet path (of the magnet <NUM>) may be reversed.

The sensor units H1,H2 may each be configured to detect the presence of a magnetic field generated by the magnet <NUM>. The sensor units H1,H2 may, therefore, be configured to detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM> with respect thereto. The sensor units H1,H2 may use a magnet field strength threshold such that the magnet field strength sensed by the sensor units H1,H2 must be above the threshold in order for the sensor unit H1,H2 to indicate the proximity of the magnet <NUM> thereto. In some embodiments, there may also be an upper threshold applied such that if the magnetic field strength is above the upper threshold then it may be determined, by the sensor units H1,H2 (individually or collectively) that the magnetic field is from an external source and this may trigger a tamper alert.

The sensor units H1,H2 are also configured to detect a polarity of the magnet field (that is a polarity of the magnetic field which has been sensed or the sensed magnetic field) such that each sensor unit H1,H2 is configured to determine which pole of the magnet <NUM> is in closest proximity to that sensor unit H1,H2.

As will be appreciated from figured <NUM>-<NUM>, the magnetic field polarity sensed at each sensor unit H1,H2 will depend on the position of the magnet <NUM> along the magnet path (with the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration).

The magnetic field polarity sensed by each sensor unit H1,H2 for the arrangements in each of figured <NUM>-<NUM> is shown in <FIG> respectively.

Therefore, with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, with the moveable panel <NUM> in the open configuration neither sensor unit H1,H2 will detect a magnetic field (or any detected magnetic field may be below a required threshold as described). This is shown in <FIG> but not depicted in <FIG>.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration and the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the unlocked configuration, the magnet <NUM> is to the first side of both of the sensor units H1,H2. The first sensor unit H1, in this embodiment, is closest to the magnet <NUM> and detects the proximity of the magnet <NUM> and that it is the north pole N of the magnet which is closest to the first sensor unit H1. The magnetic field at the second sensor unit H2 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is shown in the upper drawing of <FIG> and in the table of <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the interim position and this is depicted in the middle drawing of <FIG>. In this position, both the first H1 and second H2 sensor units may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the first sensor unit H1 detecting the proximity of the south pole S of the magnet <NUM> and the second sensor unit H2 detecting the proximity of the north pole N of the magnet <NUM>. This is generally shown in the middle drawing of <FIG> but is not shown in <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated further towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the locked position and this is depicted in the bottom drawing of <FIG>. In this position, the second H2 sensor unit may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the second sensor unit H2 detecting the proximity of the south pole S of the magnet <NUM>. The magnetic field at the first sensor unit H1 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is generally shown in the bottom drawing of <FIG> and in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, the orientation of the magnet <NUM> with respect to the sensor <NUM> may not be known prior to installation. This may be because the orientation of the magnet <NUM> within the magnet housing <NUM> was not predefined at the time of securing the magnet <NUM> within the magnet housing <NUM> or may be because the magnet housing <NUM> can have different orientations (in some embodiments) when secured to the magnet attachment point <NUM> or may be because the magnet attachment point <NUM> may have been installed in two or more different orientations with respect to the location of the sensor <NUM>, for example.

Accordingly, <FIG> and <FIG> consider the same arrangement of first and second sensor units H1,H2 as discussed in relation to <FIG> and <FIG> but with the orientation of the magnet <NUM> reversed relative thereto.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration and the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the unlocked configuration, the magnet <NUM> is to the first side of both of the sensor units H1,H2. The first sensor unit H1, in this embodiment, is closest to the magnet <NUM> and detects the proximity of the magnet <NUM> and that it is the south pole S of the magnet which is closest to the first sensor unit H1. The magnetic field at the second sensor unit H2 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is shown in the upper drawing of <FIG> and in the table of <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the interim position and this is depicted in the middle drawing of <FIG>. In this position, both the first H1 and second H2 sensor units may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the first sensor unit H1 detecting the proximity of the north pole N of the magnet <NUM> and the second sensor unit H2 detecting the proximity of the south pole S of the magnet <NUM>. This is generally shown in the middle drawing of <FIG> but is not shown in <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated further towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the locked position and this is depicted in the bottom drawing of <FIG>. In this position, the second H2 sensor unit may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the second sensor unit H2 detecting the proximity of the north pole N of the magnet <NUM>. The magnetic field at the first sensor unit H1 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is generally shown in the bottom drawing of <FIG> and in <FIG>.

It may also be that the orientation of the sensor <NUM> is reversed with respect to the magnet <NUM>. This may occur as a result of use of the same module <NUM> in relation to multiple different door and window <NUM> configurations - which may result in different placement (including different orientations of placement) of the securing member <NUM>. This different orientation may result in reversal of the orientation of the sensor units H1,H2 as discussed above in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>. Yet again, with this reversal, the magnet <NUM> orientation could also be in either relative arrangement as discussed in relation to <FIG> and <FIG> respectively. These possibilities are, therefore, shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration and the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the unlocked configuration, the magnet <NUM> is to the first side of both of the sensor units H1,H2 (wherein the first side in this instance may be equivalent to the second side as described in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>, for example). The second sensor unit H2, in this embodiment, is closest to the magnet <NUM> and detects the proximity of the magnet <NUM> and that it is the north pole N of the magnet which is closest to the second sensor unit H2. The magnetic field at the first sensor unit H1 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is shown in the upper drawing of <FIG> and in the table of <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated further towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the locked position and this is depicted in the bottom drawing of <FIG>. In this position, the first H1 sensor unit may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the first sensor unit H1 detecting the proximity of the south pole S of the magnet <NUM>. The magnetic field at the second sensor unit H2 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is generally shown in the bottom drawing of <FIG> and in <FIG>.

With the magnet <NUM> orientation reversed relative to that in <FIG>, reference is made to <FIG> and <FIG>, with the moveable panel <NUM> in the open configuration neither sensor unit H1,H2 will detect a magnetic field (or any detected magnetic field may be below a required threshold as described). This is shown in <FIG> but not depicted in <FIG>.

With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration and the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the unlocked configuration, the magnet <NUM> is to the first side of both of the sensor units H1,H2 (wherein the first side in this instance may be equivalent to the second side as described in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>, for example). The second sensor unit H2, in this embodiment, is closest to the magnet <NUM> and detects the proximity of the magnet <NUM> and that it is the south pole S of the magnet which is closest to the second sensor unit H2. The magnetic field at the first sensor unit H1 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is shown in the upper drawing of <FIG> and in the table of <FIG>.

As the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is actuated further towards the locked configuration, the magnet <NUM> travels along the magnet path to the locked position and this is depicted in the bottom drawing of <FIG>. In this position, the first H1 sensor unit may detect the proximity of the magnet <NUM>, with the first sensor unit H1 detecting the proximity of the north pole N of the magnet <NUM>. The magnetic field at the second sensor unit H2 may be too low to be detected and/or may be below the threshold (as described). This is generally shown in the bottom drawing of <FIG> and in <FIG>.

The controller <NUM> of the module <NUM> may be configured to receive information from the sensor <NUM> and this may be information from the or each sensor unit H1,H2. This information may include an indication that a magnetic field has been detected, the polarity of the detected magnet field, and/or the strength of the magnetic field. Thresholds are discussed above and these may be applied by the sensor <NUM> or by the controller <NUM> or both.

The controller <NUM> may be configured, therefore, to receive the information from the sensor <NUM> and to determine the current configuration of the moveable panel <NUM> (i.e. open or closed) and the current configuration of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> (i.e. locked or unlocked).

For a given relative orientation of the module <NUM> with respect to the magnet attachment point <NUM>, for example, the controller <NUM> can determine the current configuration of the panel <NUM> and the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> irrespective of the orientation of the magnet <NUM>. With reference to figured <NUM> and <NUM>, for example, the detection of a magnetic field by the second sensor unit H2 indicates that the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is locked (and the moveable panel <NUM> is closed). Likewise, the detection of a magnetic field by the first sensor unit H1 indicates that the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is unlocked (and the moveable panel <NUM> is closed). If there is no magnetic field detected by either sensor unit H1,H2, then the moveable panel <NUM> is open. If the orientation of the sensor units H1,H2 is reversed (as in <FIG>), then the same is true but for the second sensor unit H2 instead of the first sensor unit H1.

The controller <NUM> may be configured to learn the relative orientation of the sensor <NUM> and the magnet <NUM> on first installation and may store this information as setup information on the computer readable medium <NUM>, for example.

In particular, the controller <NUM>, using the information received from the sensor <NUM>, may detect the position of the magnet <NUM> relative to the sensor units H1,H2 when the moveable panel <NUM> moves from the closed to the open configuration. When this occurs, the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is, by definition, in the unlocked configuration. This may, therefore, enable the controller <NUM> to store the expected magnetic field polarity at the first or second sensor unit H1,H2 with the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the unlocked configuration. This also allows the controller <NUM> to determine (and store) the expected magnetic field polarity at the other of the first and second sensor unit H1,H2 with the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> in the locked configuration.

In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may use the sensed magnetic field orientation at the sensor units H1,H2 in the interim position to confirm (in part) the likely relative orientation of the sensor <NUM> and magnet <NUM> with respect to each other. This may be particularly useful as confirmation or an alternative learning step in embodiments in which the orientation of the either the magnet <NUM> with respect to the sensor <NUM> is fixed (but the positions of the sensor units H1,H2 within the sensor <NUM> is not known) or the positions of the sensor units H1,H2 within the sensor <NUM> are known), for example.

If the controller <NUM> determines an unexpected change in the sensed magnetic fields, then the controller <NUM> may generate a tamper alert. An expected change may be the changes expected in the magnetic fields sensed when the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> is moved from the locked to the unlocked configuration and/or the moveable panel <NUM> is opened or closed.

An unexpected change may be an magnetic field detected at the first and/or second sensor unit H1,H2 which is not of an expected magnetic polarity and/or magnetic field strength (e.g. too high). So, for example, if an external magnet is brought close to the sensor <NUM> then the magnetic field may be higher than expected or the polarity of the magnetic field sensed at any one sensor unit H1,H2 may not fit with what is expected for the different configurations of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>. For example, if both the first and second sensor units H1,H2 detect a magnetic field of the same polarity, then this is likely the result of an external magnet being used to tamper with the operation of the module <NUM>. If the field strength is higher at either sensor unit H1,H2 than normally sensed as a result of the magnet <NUM>, then this may also be an indication of the presence of an external magnet. The controller <NUM> may be configured to require the unexpected magnetic field to be sensed for a predetermined period of time before a tamper alert is generated and this may help to prevent false alarms. In some embodiments, the tamper alert may be triggered when there are more than a predetermined number of trigger events (each being a sensed unexpected magnetic field) within the predetermined time period - which may be the result of someone moving an external magnet relative to the module <NUM>.

A tamper alert may also or alternatively be generated by the controller <NUM> if the sensed magnetic fields indicate that the moveable panel <NUM> has moved to the open configuration from the closed configuration, with the sensed magnetic fields indicating that the lock or latch mechanism <NUM> has not changed from the locked to the unlocked configuration, for example.

On the generation of a tamper alert, the controller <NUM> may cause the communications subsystem <NUM> to deliver the alert to a hub 24a - from which a user may be notified (via their computing device, for example).

As will be appreciated, the flexibility provided by the different orientations of the magnet <NUM> and sensor <NUM> (and positions of the sensor units H1,H2) enables the same module <NUM> to be used in a wide variety of applications and simplifies the installation process - particularly if being installed by a consumer user.

As will be understood, in some embodiments, there are at least two sensor units H1,H2 provided as part of the sensor <NUM>. With the moveable panel <NUM> in the closed configuration, the magnet <NUM> is located (which may also mean that the magnet housing <NUM> and magnet attachment point <NUM> are similarly located) such that it is moveable from a first side of both sensor units H1,H2 to a second side of both sensor units H1,H2 depending on the configuration state (i.e. locked or unlocked) of the lock or latch mechanism <NUM>. The movement of the magnet <NUM> is along the magnet path and this may take the magnet <NUM> past one of the sensor units H1,H2 to an interim position prior to reaching each end of the magnet path during use. In some embodiments, there is a single (i.e. one and only one) magnet <NUM> which moves along this magnet path and only one magnet <NUM> (i.e. the same one and only one magnet <NUM>) which is sensed by the sensor units H1,H2 in normal operation (e.g. when there is no tampering or external magnet). The magnet <NUM> may be oriented such than an axis through its north N and south S poles (e.g. the magnetic axis of the magnet <NUM>) is aligned with the magnet path. For the avoidance of doubt, the magnet path is defined herein with the moveable panel <NUM> in its closed configuration (movement of the moveable panel <NUM> to the open configuration will move the magnet <NUM> in such embodiments) off the magnet path.

As will be appreciated, an attachment system according to embodiments may include the securing member <NUM> and/or the module <NUM>.

Embodiments may include the window or door <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> has been fitted. Embodiments may include the window or door <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> have been fitted. Embodiments may include the window or door <NUM> with or without the magnet attachment location <NUM>, and/or with or without the magnet <NUM>.

Embodiments may include the frame <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> has been fitted. Embodiments may include the frame <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> have been fitted. Embodiments may include the frame member <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> has been fitted. Embodiments may include the frame member <NUM> to which the securing member <NUM> and module <NUM> have been fitted.

Embodiments may include a method of fitting the securing member <NUM> to the frame member <NUM> and/or frame <NUM> and/or door or window <NUM>. Embodiments may include a method of fitting the module <NUM> to the securing member <NUM>. Embodiments may include a method of replacing the module <NUM> with a different module <NUM> on the securing member <NUM>.

Embodiments may include the learning process discussed herein.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claim 1:
A module (<NUM>) for use in determining the condition of a latch or lock mechanism (<NUM>) of a door or window (<NUM>), characterised in that the module (<NUM>) includes:
first and second sensor units (<NUM>) configured to sense changes in a polarity of a sensed magnetic field of a magnet (<NUM>) as the magnet (<NUM>) moves along a magnet path, the magnet (<NUM>) moving along the magnet path with actuation of a lock or latch mechanism (<NUM>) between an unlocked and a locked condition, the magnet (<NUM>) having a magnetic axis which is directionally aligned with the magnet path and the magnet path passing both of the first and second sensor units (<NUM>), such that the module (<NUM>) determines a current condition of the lock or latch mechanism (<NUM>) by using the sensed changes in the sensed polarity of a magnetic field generated by the magnet (<NUM>) as the magnet moves along the magnet path.