Espagnolette

Abstract

An espagnolette 100 comprising a first sliding member 300 connected to an actuating mechanism 200 and connected to a first locking portion 302 toward a first end 102, and a second sliding member 400 c

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present invention is related to an espagnolette for securing a door or window. BACKGROUND

[0002] In traditional doors and windows, espagnolettes are used to provide security and a pleasant aesthetic. Espagnolettes provide bolts that are used to secure a door or window at the top and bottom of the window or door.

[0003] Recently, the locking mechanisms in doors and windows, such as those made from UPVC, are becoming more complex to manufacture and operate. Moreover, doors such as French doors are using a combination of existing locking mechanisms, such as deadlocks, sash locks and UPVC mechanisms.

[0004] Therefore, the designs of modern doors and windows are becoming overly complex.

[0005] It is the objection of the present disclosure to overcome some of the above-mentioned problems. SUMMARY

[0006] According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

[0007] According to a first example, there is provided an espagnolette comprising a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis defined between the first and second ends; an actuating mechanism, a first sliding member connected to the actuating mechanism and connected to a first locking portion toward the first end, and a second sliding member connected to a second locking portion toward the second end, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured such that movement of the actuating mechanism in a first direction causes the first sliding member and the first locking portion to move along the longitudinal axis towards the first end, into a locked configuration, wherein movement of the first locking portion towards the first end causes a first bolt to protrude from the first end, and wherein the first sliding member is configured such that movement of the first sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the first end, causes the second sliding member and the second locking portion to move along the longitudinal axis towards the second end, into a locked configuration, wherein movement of the second locking portion towards the second end causes a second bolt to protrude from the second end.

[0008] The above invention provides an improved espagnolette with improved security and a simplified mechanism.

[0009] The espagnolette may be further configured such that movement of the actuating mechanism in a second direction causes the first sliding member and the first locking portion to move along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end, such that the first bolt of the first locking portion retracts into the first end.

[0010] The first sliding member may be further configured such that movement of the first sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end, causes the second sliding member and the second locking portion to move along the longitudinal axis, towards the first end, such that the second bolt of the second locking portion retracts into the second end.

[0011] The espagnolette may advantageously allow a user to more easily lock or unlock a plurality of different locking means with a single movement.

[0012] The espagnolette may further comprise a first gearing between the first sliding member and the second sliding member.

[0013] The gearing may be configured such that movement of the first sliding member in one direction along the longitudinal axis causes the movement of the second sliding member in an opposite direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0014] The gearing may advantageously allow movement of a sliding member in one direction to cause the movement of another sliding member in a different direction.

[0015] The first sliding member may further comprise one or more first sliding member locking means. The first sliding member locking means may be configured such that movement of the first sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the first end, causes the one or more first sliding member locking means to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

[0016] The one or more first sliding member locking means may be a plurality of sliding locking means.

[0017] The second sliding member may further comprise a second sliding member locking means. The second sliding member locking means may be configured such that movement of the second sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end, causes the second sliding member locking means to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

[0018] The espagnolette may further comprise a third sliding member configured such that movement of the first sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the first end, causes the third sliding member to move along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end.

[0019] The third sliding member may comprise a third sliding member locking means. The third sliding member locking means may be configured such that movement of the third sliding member along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end, causes the third sliding member locking means to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

[0020] The espagnolette may advantageously provide a plurality of different locking means, thus provide a more secure espagnolette.

[0021] The espagnolette may further comprise a second gearing between the first sliding member and the third sliding member. The the gearing may be configured such that movement of the first sliding member in one direction along the longitudinal axis causes the movement of the third sliding member in an opposite direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0022] The additional gearing may advantageously provide an espagnolette in which the movement of a second and third sliding member is controlled by the movement of a first sliding member.

[0023] The first locking portion may comprise a first locking portion locking means. The first locking portion locking means may be configured such that movement of the first locking portion along the longitudinal axis, towards the first end, causes the first locking portion locking means to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

[0024] The second locking portion may comprise a second locking portion locking means. The second locking portion locking means may be configured such that movement of the second locking portion along the longitudinal axis, towards the second end, causes the second locking portion locking means to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

[0025] The espagnolette may advantageously allow a simplified user experience to lock or unlock the device.

[0026] The first sliding member and the second sliding member may comprise opposing teeth to engage the first gearing.

[0027] The first sliding member and the third sliding member may comprise opposing teeth to engage the second gearing.

[0028] The espagnolette may comprise a plurality of pins configured to secure a cover plate.

[0029] The pins may advantageously allow a more compact espagnolette design while allowing a coverto be attached. The cover plate may protect the gearing in use.

[0030] The espagnolette may further comprise a first connection member to releasably connect the first locking portion and the first sliding member, and a second connection member to releasably connect the second locking portion and the second sliding member.

[0031] The connection member may allow for first and second locking portions to be manufactured and adjusted separately to the rest of the espagnolette. Therefore, a custom espagnolette may be provided for each door and / or window.

[0032] The first locking portion and the second locking portion may each comprise an internal elongate section, and the connection members may each be configured to receive the internal elongate section of the corresponding first and second locking portion.

[0033] Advantageously, the internal elongate section may allow for more secure connection between the locking portions and the connection member.

[0034] Each of the internal elongate sections may comprise a plurality of teeth and each of the connection members may comprise a body comprising a receiving portion for receiving each of the internal elongate sections. The receiving portion may comprise a plurality of teeth, such that the plurality of teeth of each of the internal elongate sections interlock with the plurality of teeth of each of the connection members.

[0035] The interlocking teeth advantageously restrict the movement of the locking portions in the longitudinal axis.

[0036] The first connection member and the second connection member may each comprise a cover, the cover configured to releasably secure at least part of each of the first locking portion and the second locking portion within the first connection member and the second connection member, respectively.

[0037] The cover allows a user to easily access the joint between the sliding members and the locking

[0038] The cover may be slidably coupled to the connection member.

[0039] Advantageously, this allows for a simple design and easy removal and attachment of the cover.

[0040] The first locking portion and the second locking portion may each be configured to be cut to size to fit a door or window, in use. Advantageously, the espagnolette may be used with any sized windows or doors.

[0041] According to a second example, there is provided a door or window comprising the espagnolette as described above.

[0042] The above invention provides a more secure door or window with a simplified mechanism.

[0043] All of the features contained herein may be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.

[0044] Although a few preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0045] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a side view of an example of an espagnolette; Figure 2a shows a rearview of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 2b shows an enlarged rear view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 3a shows a front view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 3b shows an enlarged front view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 4 shows a side view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 5a shows a front view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 5b shows an enlarged front view of a section of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 6a shows a front view of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 6b shows an enlarged front view of a section of an example of the espagnolette; Figure 7a shows a front view of an example of the espagnolette in the unlocked configuration; Figure 7b shows a front view of an example of the espagnolette in the locked configuration; Figure 8a shows a side view of an example of an espagnolette in the unlocked configuration; Figure 8b shows a side view of an example of an espagnolette in the locked configuration; Figure 9a shows a top view of an example of a connection member; Figure 9b shows a front view of an example of the connection member Figure 9c shows a rearview of an example of the connection member; Figure 9d shows a bottom view of an example of the connection member; Figure 10a shows a front perspective view of an example of the connection member; Figure 10b shows a rear perspective view of an example of the connection member; Figure 11a shows a front perspective view of an example of a connection member cover; Figure 11b shows a rear perspective view of an example of a connection member cover; Figure 12a shows a front perspective view of an example of the connection member; Figure 12b shows a rear perspective view of an example of the connection member; and Figure 13 shows a flow chart of an example of a method of using an espagnolette. SPECIFIC DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0046] An apparatus of the present disclosure is described below.

[0047] In particular, the present disclosure is concerned with an espagnolette for the securing of doors and windows.

[0048] FIG. 1 shows a side view of an example of an espagnolette 100. The espagnolette 100 is a substantially elongate structure for attachment to a window or a door. The espagnolette 100 comprises a securing section 106 for securing the espagnolette 100 to a window or door. The securing section 106 comprises an elongate section and two arm sections, such that the espagnolette 100 may be securely attached to a door or window. The securing section 106 comprises a plurality of fixing apertures to allow fixings to pass therethrough to secure the espagnolette 100 to a window or door.

[0049] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a first end 102 and a second end 104. The substantially elongate portion of the espagnolette 100 (and the securing section 106) define a longitudinal axis L. The longitudinal axis L is defined from the first end 102 to the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The longitudinal axis L is substantially parallel to the vertical axis of a door or window, in use. The longitudinal axis L is substantially parallel to the longest axis of a door or window, but it will be understood that other door or window designs may result in the longitudinal axis L being substantially parallel with an axis other than the longest axis of the door or window.

[0050] The espagnolette 100 comprises a window or door sash facing side 108 and a window frame or door frame facing side 110.

[0051] The espagnolette 100 further comprises an actuating mechanism 200. The actuating mechanism 200 is located at the approximate mid-point between the first end 104 and the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The actuating mechanism 200 is configured to be operated by a user, to open or close the window or door. The actuating mechanism 200 may comprise a handle configured to operate the actuating mechanism.

[0052] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a first sliding member 300. The first sliding member can be more clearly seen in FIGs. 2a and 2b. The first sliding member 300 is connected to the actuating mechanism 200. The connection between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first sliding member 300 is such that upon operating the actuating mechanism 200 in a first direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L towards the first end 102. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L towards the second end 104.

[0053] The first sliding member 300 further comprises one or more locking means 304a, 304b (first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b). In this example, the first sliding member comprises two first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b. The first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b can be seen more clearly in FIGs. 3a and 3b.

[0054] The first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b extend outwardly from the frame facing side 110 of the espagnolette 100. In use, the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b are received by the frame of a door or window. The first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b may be a bolt or screw. The first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b may have a shaft portion and a head portion. The head portion may be wider than the shaft portion, such that the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b may be received in a keyhole-shaped aperture in the window or door frame.

[0055] As explained above, as the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a first direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102. Movement of the first sliding member 300 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, causes the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b to move along the longitudinal axis L, from an unlocked position to a locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b move along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0056] The first sliding member locking means 304a is located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. The first sliding member locking means 304b is located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the second end 102 of the espagnolette 100.

[0057] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a first locking portion 302. The first locking portion 302 is situated toward the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. The first locking portion 302 is connected to the first sliding member 300. The connection between the first locking portion 302 and the first sliding member 300 may be facilitated by a first connection member 700a. The first connection member 700a is described in more detail below. The first locking portion 302 may be detached from the connection member 700a.

[0058] The first locking portion 302 is configured such that as the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, in response to the actuating mechanism 200 being operated in a first direction, the first locking portion 302 moves towards the first end 102. The first locking portion 302 comprises a first bolt 303. Upon the actuating mechanism 200 being operated in a first direction, the first bolt 303 moved towards and projects out of the first end 102. This position is the locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, and therefore the first locking portion 302 moves towards the second end 104 and the first bolt 303 retracts into the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. This position is the unlocked position.

[0059] The first locking portion 302 is configured to be received in an aperture in the frame of a door or window. The first locking portion 302 may be a length to fit the door or window on which the espagnolette 100 is used.

[0060] The first locking portion 302 may comprise an internal elongate section 305. The internal elongate section 305 may be substantially flat. The internal elongate section 305 may comprise a plurality of opposed teeth along each side of the elongate length. The internal elongate section 305, and the plurality of opposed teeth, are configured such that the first locking portion 302 may be cut along its length to adjust the length of the first locking portion 302, and therefore the length of the espagnolette 100.

[0061] When detached from the connection member 700a, the first locking portion 302 may be placed in a cutting position. In this cutting position, the first bolt 303 is hyper-extended from the first locking portion 302, such that internal elongate section 305 is flush with the other end of the first locking portion 302. In this position, the first locking portion 302 may be cut at the end not comprising the first bolt 303, to adjust the size of the first locking portion 302 to fit the door or window as required. The first locking portion 302 may be provided separately from the espagnolette 100.

[0062] The length of travel of the first locking portion 302, when detached from the connection member 700a, between the cutting position and the unlocked position is approximately between 28mm and 36mm, preferably between 30mm and 34mm, most preferably, 32mm. The length of travel of the first locking portion 302 between the cutting position and the locked position is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. The length of travel of the first locking portion 302 between the locked position and the unlocked position is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.

[0063] After the first locking portion 302 is cut to length, the first bolt 303 of the first locking portion may be moved from the hyperextended position to the locked position. By moving to the locked position, the first bolt 303 protrudes from the first locking portion 302 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. Similarly, the internal elongate section 305 protrudes from an other end of the first locking portion 302 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. The internal elongate section 305 may then be received by a receiving portion 704 of the connection member 700a. A cover 720 may be slid over the internal elongate section 305, thus locking the connection between the connection member 700a and the first locking portion 302. This interaction is described in more detail below and can be seen in Figures 12a and 12b.

[0064] In use, when the first locking portion 302 is connected to the connection member 700a, the allowable length of travel of the first locking portion 302 is between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between Umm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. That is, first locking portion 302 may be moved such that the first bolt 303 may move between a retracted position (unlocked) and an extended position (locked). The relative movement of the first bolt 303 between the locked and unlocked positions is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.

[0065] That is, when assembled, the relative length of travel of the first locking portion 302 (i.e., between the locked and unlocked position, and vice versa) is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm, such that the first bolt 303 may protrude from the end of the first locking portion 302 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.The first locking portion 302 further comprises a locking means 306. The first locking portion locking means 306 extends outwardly from the frame facing side 110 of the espagnolette 100.

[0066] In use, the first locking portion locking means 306 is received by the frame of a door or window. The first locking portion locking means 306 may be a bolt or screw. The first locking portion locking means 306 may have a shaft portion and a head portion. The head portion may be wider than the shaft portion, such that the first locking portion locking means 306 may be received in a keyhole-shaped aperture in the window or door frame.

[0067] As explained above, as the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a first direction, the first sliding member 300, and therefore the first locking portion 302 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102.

[0068] Movement of the first locking portion 302 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, causes the first locking portion locking means 306 to move along the longitudinal axis L, from an unlocked position to a locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the first locking portion locking means 306 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0069] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a second sliding member 400. The second sliding member can be more clearly seen in FIGs. 2a and 2b. The second sliding member 400 is situated towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The second sliding member 400 is configured such that upon movement of the first sliding member 300 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, the second sliding member 400 moves towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. That is, operation of the actuating mechanism 200 in a first direction causes the second sliding member 400 to move towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100.

[0070] The second sliding member 400 is further configured such that upon movement of the first sliding member 300 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, the second sliding member 400 moves towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. That is, operation of the actuating mechanism 200 in a second direction causes the second sliding member 400 to move towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100.

[0071] The second sliding member 400 further comprises a locking means 404 (second sliding member locking means 404). The second sliding member locking means 404 can be seen more clearly in FIGs. 3a and 3b.

[0072] The second sliding member locking means 404 extends outwardly from the frame facing side 110 of the espagnolette 100. In use, the second sliding member locking means 404 is received by the frame of a door or window. The second sliding member locking means 404 may be a bolt or screw. The second sliding member locking means 404 may have a shaft portion and a head portion. The head portion may be wider than the shaft portion, such that the second sliding member locking means 404 may be received in a keyhole-shaped aperture in the window or door frame.

[0073] As explained above, as the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a first direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, this, in turn, causes the second sliding member 400 to move along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104. Movement of the second sliding member 400 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, causes the second sliding member locking means 404 to move along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, from an unlocked position to a locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the second sliding member locking means 404 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0074] The second sliding member locking means 404 is located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100.

[0075] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a second locking portion 402. The second locking portion 402 is situated towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The second locking portion 402 is connected to the second sliding member 400. The connection between the second locking portion 402 and the second sliding member 400 may be facilitated by a second connection member 700b. The second connection member 700b is described in more detail below. The second locking portion 402 may be detached from the connection member 700b.

[0076] The second locking portion 402 is configured such that as the second sliding member 400 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, in response to the actuating mechanism 200 being operated in a first direction, the second locking portion 402 moves towards the second end 104. The second locking portion 402 comprises a second bolt 403. Upon the actuating mechanism being operated in a first direction, the second bolt 403 moves towards and projects out of the second end 104. This position is the locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the second sliding member 400 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, and therefore the second locking portion 402 moves towards the first end 102 and the second bolt 403 retracts into the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. This position is the unlocked position.

[0077] The second locking portion 402 is configured to be received in an aperture in the frame of a door or window. The second locking portion 402 may be a length to fit the door or window on which the espagnolette 100 is used.

[0078] The second locking portion 402 may comprise and internal elongate section 405. The internal elongate section 405 may be substantially flat. The internal elongate section 405 may comprise a plurality of opposed teeth along each side of the elongate length. The internal elongate section 405, and the plurality of opposed teeth, are configured such that the first locking portion 402 may be cut along its length to adjust the length of the first locking portion 402, and therefore the length of the espagnolette 100.

[0079] When detached from the connection member 700b, the second locking portion 402 may be placed in a cutting position. In this cutting position, the second bolt 403 is hyperextended from the second locking portion 402, such that internal elongate section 405 is flush with the other end of the second locking portion 402. In this position, the second locking member 402 may be cut at the end not comprising the second bolt 403, to adjust the size of the second locking member 402 to fit the door or window as required. The second locking portion 402 may be provided separately from the espagnolette 100.

[0080] That is, the first locking portion 302 and the second locking member 402 may provide the adjustability in size of the espagnolette 100. The first locking portion 302 and second locking member 402 may be manufactured, or cut, to the correct length.

[0081] The length of travel of the second locking portion 402, when detached from the connection member 700b, between the cutting position and the unlocked position is approximately between 28mm and 36mm, preferably between 30mm and 34mm, most preferably, 32mm. The length of travel of the second locking portion 402 between the cutting position and the locked position is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. The length of travel of the second locking portion 402 between the locked position and the unlocked position is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.

[0082] After the second locking portion 402 is cut to length, the second bolt 403 of the second locking portion 402 may be moved from the hyperextended position to the locked position. By moving to the locked position, the second bolt 403 protrudes from the second locking portion 402 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. Similarly, the internal elongate section 405 protrudes from an other end of the second locking portion 402 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. The internal elongate section 405 may then be received by a receiving portion 704 of the connection member 700b. A cover 720 may be slid over the internal elongate section 405, thus locking the connection between the connection member 700b and the second locking portion 402. This interaction is described in more detail below and can be seen in Figures 12a and 12b.

[0083] In use, when the second locking portion 402 is connected to the connection member 700b, the allowable length of travel of the second locking portion 402 is between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm. That is, second locking portion 402 may be moved such that the second bolt 403 may move between a retracted position (unlocked) and an extended position (locked). The relative movement of the second bolt 403 between the locked and unlocked positions is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.

[0084] That is, when assembled, the relative length of travel of the second locking portion 402 (i.e., between the locked and unlocked position, and vice versa) is approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm, such that the second bolt 403 may protrude from the end of the second locking portion 402 by approximately between 12mm and 20mm, preferably between 14mm and 18mm, most preferably, 16mm.

[0085] The first locking portion 302 and second locking portion 402 may be joined to the first connection member 700a and the second connection member 700b respectively by their internal elongate sections 305, 405. This connection will be explained in more detail below,

[0086] The second locking portion 402 further comprises a locking means 406. The second locking portion locking means 406 extends outwardly from the frame facing side 110 of the espagnolette 100. In use, the second locking portion locking means 406 is received by the frame of a door or window. The second locking portion locking means 406 may be a bolt or screw. The second locking portion locking means 406 may have a shaft portion and a head portion. The head portion may be wider than the shaft portion, such that the second locking portion locking means 406 may be received in a keyhole-shaped aperture in the window or doorframe.

[0087] As explained above, as the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the second sliding member 400, and therefore the second locking portion 402 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104.

[0088] Movement of the second locking portion 402 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, causes the second locking portion locking means 406 to move along the longitudinal axis L, from an unlocked position to a locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the second locking portion locking means 406 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0089] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a first gearing 308. The first gearing 308 can be seen clearly in FIGs. 6a and 6b. The first gearing 308 is between the first sliding member 300 and the second sliding member 400.

[0090] The first sliding member 300 comprises first gearing teeth 310. The first gearing teeth 310 are configured to interact with the first gearing 308.

[0091] The second sliding member 400 comprises second sliding member teeth 410. The second sliding member teeth 410 are configured to interact with the first gearing 308.

[0092] The first gearing teeth 310 and the second sliding member teeth 410 are configured such that they interact with opposite sides of the first gearing 308 such that as the first gearing 308 turns, the first gearing teeth 310 and the second sliding member teeth 410 move in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis L of the espagnolette 100. That is, as the first gearing 308 turns, the first sliding member 300 and the second sliding member 400 move in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis L of the espagnolette 100.

[0093] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a third sliding member 500. The sliding member can be more clearly seen in FIGs. 2a and 2b. The third sliding member 500 is situated towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. The third sliding member 500 is configured such that upon movement of the first sliding member 300 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, the third sliding member 500 moves towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. That is, operation of the actuating mechanism 200 in a first direction causes the third sliding member 500 to move towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100.

[0094] The third sliding member 500 is further configured such that upon movement of the first sliding member 300 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, the third sliding member 500 moves towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. That is, operation of the actuating mechanism 200 in a second direction causes the third sliding member 500 to move towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100.

[0095] The third sliding member 500 further comprises a locking means 504 (third sliding member locking means 504). The third sliding member locking means 504 can be seen more clearly in FIGs. 3a and 3b.

[0096] The third sliding member locking means 504 extends outwardly from the frame facing side 110 of the espagnolette 100. In use, the third sliding member locking means 504 is received by the frame of a door or window. The third sliding member locking means 504 may be a bolt or screw. The third sliding member locking means 504 may have a shaft portion and a head portion. The head portion may be wider than the shaft portion, such that the third sliding member locking means 504 may be received in a keyhole-shaped aperture in the window or door frame.

[0097] As explained above, as the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a first direction, the first sliding member 300 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, this, in turn, causes the third sliding member 500 to move along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104. Movement of the third sliding member 500 along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, causes the third sliding member locking means 504 to move along the longitudinal axis L, towards the second end 104, from an unlocked position to a locked position. If the actuating mechanism 200 is operated in a second direction, the third sliding member locking means 504 moves along the longitudinal axis L, towards the first end 102, from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0098] The third sliding member locking means 504 is located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100.

[0099] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a second gearing 508. The second gearing 508 can be seen clearly in FIGs. 5a and 5b. The second gearing 508 is between the first sliding member 300 and the third sliding member 500.

[00100] The first sliding member 300 comprises second gearing teeth 312. The second gearing teeth 312 are configured to interact with the second gearing 508.

[00101] The third sliding member 500 comprises third sliding member teeth 510. The third sliding member teeth 510 are configured to interact with the second gearing 508.

[00102] The second gearing teeth 312 and the third sliding member teeth 510 are configured such that they interact with opposite sides of the second gearing 508 such that as the second gearing 508 turns, the second gearing teeth 312 and the third sliding member teeth 510 move in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis L of the espagnolette 100. That is, as the second gearing 308 turns, the first sliding member 300 and the third sliding member 500 move in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis L of the espagnolette 100.

[00103] The espagnolette 100 further comprises a plurality of pins 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d. The pins 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d may be configured to secure a cover plate (not shown). The cover plate may be configured to substantially cover one side of the espagnolette 100. The cover plate may comprise corresponding holes configured to receive each of the pins 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d. The pins 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d may be configured to limit the longitudinal movement of the sliding members.

[00104] The first pin 600a, second pin 600b and third pin 600c may be configured to limit the longitudinal movement of the first sliding member 300. The fourth pin 600d may be configured to limit the longitudinal movement of the second sliding member 400.

[00105] The first pin 600a is located in a first cut-out section 314 of the first sliding member 300. The interaction between the first pin 600a and the first cut-out section 314 limits the movement of the first sliding member 300 in a direction towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The first pin 600a and the first cut-out section 314 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. More specifically, the first pin 600a and the first cut-out section 314 are located between the second gearing 508 and the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100.

[00106] The second pin 600b is located in an aperture 316 of the first sliding member 300. The interaction between the second pin 600b and the aperture 316 limits the movement of the first sliding member 300 in a direction towards the second end 102 of the espagnolette 100 and in a direction towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. The second pin 600b and the aperture 316 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. More specifically, the second pin 600b and the aperture 316 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the second gearing 508.

[00107] The third pin 600c is located in a second cut-out section 318 of the first sliding member 300. The interaction between the third pin 600c and the second cut-out section 318 limits the movement of the first sliding member 300 in a direction towards the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. The third pin 600c and the second cut-out section 316 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. More specifically, the third pin 600c and the second cut-out section 318 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the first gearing 308.

[00108] Finally, the fourth pin 600d is located in a cut-out section 414 of the second sliding member 400. The interaction between the fourth pin 600d and the cut-out section 414 limits the movement of the second sliding member 400 in a direction towards the first end 102 of the espagnolette 100. The fourth pin 600d and the cut-out section 414 are located between the actuating mechanism 200 and the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100. More specifically, the fourth pin 600d and the cut-out section 414 are located between the first gearing 308 and the second end 104 of the espagnolette 100.

[00109] The first sliding member 300, second sliding member 400 and third sliding member 500 are held in the securing section 106 of the espagnolette 100. In particular, the first sliding member 300, second sliding member 400 and third sliding member 500 are slidably captive in a pair of rails of the securing section 106

[00110] Due to the relationship between the sliding members, a user may move the two locking portions and each of the locking means between a locked and unlocked configuration by operating the actuating mechanism. The movement of the espagnolette between the unlocked configuration and the locked configuration can be seen in FIGs 7a - 8b. The unlocked configuration can be seen in FIGs 7a and 8a. The locked configuration can be seen in FIGs 7b and 8b.

[00111] In use, operation of the actuation mechanism 200 in a first direction causes the first locking portion 302, the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b, the first locking portion locking means 306, the second locking portion 402, the second sliding member locking means 404, the second locking portion locking means 406 and the third sliding member locking means 504 to move from the unlocked position to the locked position. Therefore, a door or window may be secured at multiple points by a single user action.

[00112] Operation of the actuation mechanism 200 in a second direction causes the first locking portion 302, the first sliding member locking means 304a, 304b, the first locking portion locking means 306, the second locking portion 402, the second sliding member locking means 404, the second locking portion locking means 406 and the third sliding member locking means 504 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Therefore, a door or window may be released at multiple points by a single user action.

[00113] Figures 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d show top, front, rear and bottom views of the connection member 700, respectively. Figures 10 and 10b show front and rear perspective views of the connection member 700. The connection member 700 shown in these Figures is the connection members 700a, 700b.

[00114] The connection member 700a is configured to join the first locking portion 302 to the first sliding member 300. The connection member 700b is configured to join the second locking 402 to the second sliding member 400.

[00115] The connection member 700 will now be described generally. It can be assumed that the features of the connection member 700 apply equally to the connection member 700a and the connection member 700b.

[00116] The connection member 700 may comprise a housing 702. The housing 702 may comprise a base and a pair of sidewalls. The housing 702 may comprise a receiving portion 704 in the base. The receiving portion 704 may be located towards a first end of the connection member 700. The receiving portion 704 may be a cut out section and is configured to receive the internal elongate section 305, 405. The receiving portion 704 may comprise a plurality of teeth, such that the plurality of teeth of the internal elongate sections 305, 306 may interlock with the plurality of teeth of the receiving portion 704. This interlocking prevents movement of the locking portions 302, 402 with respect to the connection members 700a, 700b in the longitudinal direction.

[00117] The housing 702 may comprise one or more holes 706. The one or more holes 706 may be towards a second end of the connection member 700. The one or more holes 706 are configured to allow the connection member 700 to be fixed to the sliding members 300, 400. Alternatively, the connection member 700 may be integral with the sliding members 300, 400. That is, the connection member 700a may be integral with the first sliding member 300, and the connection member 700b may be integral with the second sliding member 400.

[00118] In some examples, the sliding members 300, 400 may comprise an extension (not shown). The extension may extend into the housing 702. The extension may be received in slots in the housing 702. The extension may overlay and correspond to the part of the housing 702 that comprises the one or more holes 706. The extension may comprise on or more holes that align with the one or more holes 706 of the housing 702, when assembled. The one or more holes of the extension and the one or more holes 706 of the housing 702 may be secured by riveting.

[00119] The extension may comprise a thickening, or raised section, where the extension overlaps with part of the housing 702.

[00120] The housing 702 may comprise a pair of elongate apertures 708. In some embodiments, there may be more than two apertures 708. (one)?

[00121] The apertures are configured to slidably receive pins 722 located on a cover 720. The cover 720 is described in more detail below. Each of the elongate apertures 708 may comprise a narrow region 709 (for example, a pinch point)

[00122] The housing 702 may comprise a pair of rails 710. The rails may be configured to receive part of the cover 720, in use. The rails 701 may be present towards the first end of the connection member 700.

[00123] Figures 11 a and 11 b show a front and rear perspective view of the cover 720. The cover 720 is configured to be received by the connection member 700. Each of the connection members 700a, 700b has a corresponding cover 720a, 720b.

[00124] The cover 720 may comprise a pair of protrusions 722. The protrusions 722 are configured such that when the cover 720 is received by the connection member 700, the protrusions 722 are received in the elongate apertures 708. The protrusions 722 may be slidably received by the elongate apertures 708. When inserted into the elongate apertures 708, the protrusions 722 (and therefore the cover 720) may be releasably held in the longitudinal direction by the interaction between the protrusions 722 and the narrow regions 709 of each of the elongate apertures 708. That is, the pinch point may be a push fit with the protrusions 722. The protrusions 722 may a shape such that when releasably held by the elongate apertures 708, part of the protrusion 722 is held past the narrow region 709, and part is held before the narrow region 709. That is, the protrusion 722 may be elongate and may comprise a pinch point.

[00125] The cover 720 comprises a pair of grooves 724. The grooves 724 may be present on opposing edges of the cover 720. The grooves 724 may be configured to be slidably received by the rails 710 of the connection member 700. The connection between the rails 710 and the grooves 724 may limit the movement of the cover 720 with respect to the connection member 700 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[00126] That is, the combination of the interaction of the grooves 724 of the cover 720 with the rails 710 of the connecting member 700 and the interaction of the protrusions 722 of the cover 720 with the elongate apertures 708 of the connecting member 700 prevent movement of the cover in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The connection member 700 and the cover 720 can be seen in Figures 12a and 12b.

[00127] The combination of the cover 720 and the receiving portion 704 of the connection member 700 ensures that the locking portion 302, 402 is fixed partially within the connection member 700.

[00128] The cover may comprise a non-planar surface 726.The non-planar surface 726 may aid insertion and removal of the cover 720 to and from the connection member 700.

[00129] In this way, the espagnolette 100 may comprise a central section comprising the actuating mechanism 200, first sliding member 300 and second sliding member 400. The espagnolette 100 may further comprise the first locking portion 302 and the second locking portion 402, each connected to the first and second sliding members 300,400, respectively, by the connection member 700. Each of the first and second sliding members 300, 400 may be length adjustable to fit a door or window as required.

[00130] Figure 13 shows a flowchart of a method 1400 of operating an espagnolette 100. The method may include a first step 1320 of actuating an actuating mechanism 200 in a first direction to move the espagnolette 100 to a locked configuration. The method may include a second step 1340 of actuating the actuating mechanism 200 in a second direction to move the espagnolette 100 to an unlocked configuration.

[00131] The method 1440 may comprise further steps of: providing a locking portion 302, 402, moving the locking portion 302, 402 to a cutting (i.e. hyperextended) position, cutting the locking portion 302, 402 to a desired length, and attaching the locking portion 302, 402 to the espagnolette 100.

[00132] The new type of espagnolette described herein has significant advantages over prior art espagnolettes in that it offers more security by combining a shoot bolt with other locking parts. In addition, the simplicity of the mechanism reduces manufacturing costs.

[00133] Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[00134] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[00135] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[00136] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiments). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. An espagnolette (100) comprising,a first end (102) and a second end (104) and a longitudinal axis (L) defined between the first and second ends (102,104);an actuating mechanism (200),a first sliding member (300) connected to the actuating mechanism (200) and connected to a first locking portion (302) toward the first end, anda second sliding member (400) connected to a second locking portion (402) toward the second end (104),wherein the actuating mechanism (200) is configured such that movement of the actuating mechanism (200) in a first direction causes the first sliding member (300) and the first locking portion (302) to move along the longitudinal axis (L) towards the first end (102), into a locked configuration, wherein movement of the first locking portion (302) towards the first end (102) causes a first bolt (303) to protrude from the first end (102), andwherein the first sliding member (300) is configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the first end (102), causes the second sliding member (400) and the second locking portion (402) to move along the longitudinal axis (L) towards the second end (104), into a locked configuration, wherein movement of the second locking portion (402) towards the second end (104) causes a second bolt (403) to protrude from the second end (104).

2. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 1, wherein the actuating mechanism (200) is configured such that movement of the actuating mechanism (200) in a second direction causes the first sliding member (300) and the first locking portion (302) to move along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104), such that the first bolt (303) of the first locking portion (302) retracts into the first end (102), andwherein the first sliding member (300) is configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104), causes the second sliding member (400) and the second locking portion (402) to move along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the first end (102), such that the second bolt (403) of the second locking portion (402) retracts into the second end (104).

3. The espagnolette (100) according to any of claims 1 or 2, wherein the espagnolette (100) further comprises a first gearing (308) between the first sliding member (300) and the second sliding member (400), the first gearing (308) being configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) in one direction along the longitudinal axis (L) causes the movement of the second sliding member (400) in an opposite direction along the longitudinal axis (L).

4. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first sliding member (300) further comprises one or more first sliding member locking means (304a, 304b), the first sliding member locking means (304a, 304b) being configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the first end (102), causes the one or more first sliding member locking means (304a, 304b) to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

5. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 4 wherein the one or more first sliding member locking means (304a, 304b) are a plurality of sliding locking means.

6. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second sliding member (400) further comprises a second sliding member locking means (404), the second sliding member locking means (404) being configured such that movement of the second sliding member (400) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104), causes the second sliding member locking means (404) to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

7. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the espagnolette (100) further comprises a third sliding member (500) configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the first end (102), causes the third sliding member (500) to move along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104).

8. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 7, wherein the espagnolette (100) further comprises a second gearing (508) between the first sliding member (300) and the third sliding member (500), the gearing being configured such that movement of the first sliding member (300) in one direction along the longitudinal axis (L) causes the movement of the third sliding member (500) in an opposite direction along the longitudinal axis (L).

9. The espagnolette (100) according to any of claims 7 or 8, wherein the third sliding member (500) comprises a third sliding member locking means (504), the third sliding member locking means (504) being configured such that movement of the third sliding member (500) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104), causes the third sliding member locking means (504) to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

10. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking portion (302) comprises a first locking portion locking means (306), the first locking portion locking means (306) configured such that movement of the first locking portion (302)along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the first end (102), causes the first locking portion locking means (306) to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

11. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second locking portion (402) comprises a second locking portion locking means (406), the second locking portion locking means (406) configured such that movement of the second locking portion (402) along the longitudinal axis (L), towards the second end (104), causes the second locking portion locking means (406) to move from an unlocked to a locked position.

12. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 2, wherein the first sliding member (300) and the second sliding member (400) comprise opposing teeth (310, 410) to engage the first gearing (308).

13. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 8, wherein the first sliding member (300) and the third sliding member (500) comprise opposing teeth (310, 510) to engage the second gearing.

14. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the espagnolette (100) comprises a plurality of pins (600a, 600b, 600c, 600d) configured to secure a cover plate.

15. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the espagnolette (100) further comprises a first connection member (700a) to releasably connect the first locking portion (302) and the first sliding member (300), and a second connection member (700b) to releasably connect the second locking portion (402) and the second sliding member (400).

16. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 15, wherein the first locking portion (302) and the second locking portion (402) each comprise an internal elongate section (305, 405), and wherein the connection members (700a, 700b) are each configured to receive the internal elongate section (305, 405) of the corresponding first and second locking portion (302, 402).

17. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 16, wherein each of the internal elongate sections (305, 405) comprise a plurality of teeth and wherein each of the connection members (700a, 700b) comprises a body (702) comprising a receiving portion (704) for receiving each of the internal elongate sections (305, 405), the receiving portion comprising a plurality of teeth, such that the plurality of teeth of each of the internal elongate sections (305, 306) interlock with the plurality of teeth of each of the connection members (700a, 700b).

18. The espagnolette (100) according to any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the first connection member (700a) and the second connection member (700b) each comprise a cover (720), the cover (720) configured to releasably secure at least part of each of the first locking portion (302) and the second locking portion (402) within the first connection member (700a) and the 5 second connection member (700b), respectively.

19. The espagnolette (100) according to claim 18, wherein the cover (720) is slidably coupled to the connection member (700).10 20. The espagnolette (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the firstlocking portion (302) and the second locking portion (402) are each configured to be cut to size to fit a door or window, in use.

21. A door or window comprising the espagnolette (100) of claims 1 - 20.15

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