An improved switch unit

Abstract

A wall mountable switch unit 10 comprises: a push button 24a,24b for activation by a user; a switching circuit 28 having an activation mode and a reset mode; wherein the switching circuit 28 is config

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to "break glass" units and duress call point components, including a wall mountable switch unit for an activation event, and to an activation system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditionally, "break glass" units (which may or may not actually include glass), including wall mountable switch units or "call points", are designed for fire alarm activation (these are generally red call points), or emergency door releases for doors (these are generally green call points). Fire alarm call points must adhere to a specific standard and so by default the green call points are made in the same way. Commercially available break glass units are also referred to as "key resettable switches" because they can be reset, after the emergency has passed, by a key, e.g., a manual key operated by security personnel. It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with existing break glass units and uses thereof, or to at least provide a useful alternative. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0003] It is desirable to provide an improved mountable switch unit (for example which may include one or more of: a wall mountable switch unit, break glass unit, duress call point) to improve usage thereof, and / or to provide a useful choice in the industry.

[0004] In one aspect, there is provided a mountable switch unit for an activation event, comprising: a switch for activation by a user; and a switching circuit having an activation mode and a reset mode; wherein the switching circuit is configured to: switch to operating in the activation mode in response to activation of the switch to activate the activation event; and switch to operating in the reset mode such that the switch unit is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event.

[0005] In some embodiments, the switch unit is operatively connected to an activation input system.

[0006] In some embodiments, in the reset mode, power to the activation input system is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

[0007] In some embodiments, the switch unit includes a housing comprising the switch and the switching circuit, optionally wherein the housing is configured for mounting the switch unit, optionally to a wall.

[0008] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in electrical input to the switch unit.

[0009] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in the received power input signal to the switch unit.

[0010] In some embodiments, the switch unit is configured to receive an input power signal such that the switching circuit switches to operating in the reset mode based on the received power signal, or lack thereof.

[0011] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is configured to switch from the activation mode to the reset mode when the switch unit receives the input power signal.

[0012] In some embodiments, when switched to the reset mode, power is restored and / or stabilised to the activation input system to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

[0013] In some embodiments, the switching circuit switches to operating in the reset mode based on cycling of power to the switch unit.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cycling of power to the switch unit is through an external control system operatively connected to the switching circuit and / or an input power signal.

[0015] In some embodiments, power in the activation input system is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

[0016] In some embodiments, the (wall) mountable switch unit further comprises a reset switch for a local reset of the switch unit, preferably the reset switch is a reset button.

[0017] In some embodiments, the switch unit is configured to activate the activation event by interrupting power to an activation input system operatively connected to the switch unit.

[0018] In some embodiments, the activation input system is interrupted when the switch circuit is switched to operating in the activation mode such that the activation event is activated.

[0019] In some embodiments, the switch comprises one or more push buttons, preferably two or more push buttons.

[0020] In some embodiments, the one or more push buttons are spring loaded.

[0021] In some embodiments, the switch circuit is configured to switch to the activation mode in response to the at least one push button being pressed.

[0022] In some embodiments, the switch comprises a press plate.

[0023] In some embodiments, the press plate is unbreakable by manual force.

[0024] In some embodiments, the press plate is configured to be pushed directly by the user.

[0025] In some embodiments, the direct pushing of the press plate pushes down on the one or more push buttons.

[0026] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is operatively connected to a mechanical latch, optionally the mechanical latch is reset electronically via an electronic solenoid.

[0027] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is or comprises a relay.

[0028] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is or comprises a solid state circuit.

[0029] In some embodiments, the switch unit further comprises a control circuit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is configured to maintain the activation event when switched to the activation mode.

[0031] In some embodiments, the activation event ceases in response to the switching circuit switching to the reset mode.

[0032] In some embodiments, the switching circuit is a latching circuit, the activation mode is a latched state, and the reset mode is an unlatched state.

[0033] In some embodiments, the switch unit is an emergency door release, and the activation event is an unlocking of a door.

[0034] In some embodiments, the switch unit is a duress call point, and the activation event is a call for emergency assistance.

[0035] In another aspect, there is provided an activation system comprising: a (wall) mountable switch unit according to any embodiment of the previous aspect; and an external control system and / or an activation input system.

[0036] In another aspect, there is provided an emergency door release for unlocking an electronically locked door, comprising: a housing for mounting the emergency door release (to a wall); a switch for activation by a user; and a latching circuit having a latched state and an unlatched state; wherein the latching circuit is configured to: switch to operating in the latched state in response to activation of the switch to unlock the electronically locked door; and switch to operating in the unlatched state such that the emergency door release is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future unlocking of the electronically locked door.

[0037] In this specification the terms "activate", "trigger", "prompt", "initiate" are interchangeable with one another.

[0038] In this specification the terms "electronic" and "electrical" are interchangeable with one another. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 shows a block diagram relating to general embodiments of the (wall) mountable switch unit.

[0040] Figures 2A-2B respectively show perspective and front views of a first exemplary emergency door release embodiment.

[0041] Figures 3 A-3C respectively show front, rear interior, and side interior views of the first exemplary emergency door release embodiment.

[0042] Figures 4A-B show front perspective views of a second exemplary emergency door release embodiment.

[0043] Figures 4C-4D respectively show bottom perspective and exploded view of the second exemplary emergency door release embodiment.

[0044] Figures 5A-F respectively show front perspective, front, top, bottom, left, and right views of the second exemplary door release embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The following modes, features or aspects, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

[0046] There is a misconception that wall mountable switch units must adhere to standards / regulations set solely for fire alarm call points and not for other types of wall mountable switch units. This provides an opportunity to develop improvements in wall mountable switch units that are not excluded by safety standards / regulations (for example safety standards / regulations relating to fire alarm call points), including improvements that will be described in this specification.

[0047] The present disclosure relates to various mountable switch unit embodiments that are described herein by way of example. This includes, but is not limited to, an improved emergency door release, and an improved duress call point. Improvements relating to the mountable switch unit may also be applicable for other uses, subject to the relevant safety standards / regulations that may be in place. 1. General embodiments

[0048] General embodiments of the activation system 1 and mountable switch unit 10 will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0049] Figure 1 shows a general embodiment of an activation system 1 by way of example. The activation system 1 includes a mountable switch unit 10, an external control system 12, and an activation input system 14. The mountable switch unit 10 is operatively connected to the external control system 12 via a connection 16, which can be wired or wireless. The mountable switch unit 10 is operatively connected to the activation input system 14 via a connection 18, which can be wired or wireless. In some embodiments, the mountable switch unit 10 is an emergency door release 100, which will be described later with reference to Figures 2A-3B.

[0050] The mountable switch unit 10 is described in detail. The switch unit is for the activating (interchangeable with the term "triggering" herein) of an activation event by a user. Activation event can refer to any event that is activated upon triggering of the switch unit by a user. For example, the activation event may refer to an unlocking of an electronically locked door for a user to escape. In another example, the activation event may refer to a telecommunication based call for emergency assistance for a user that is in distress. As will be apparent from the rest of the detailed description, the mountable switch unit 10 is configured to be automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event.

[0051] In some embodiments, the mountable switch unit 10 (which can be referred to as "switch unit" throughout the specification) includes a housing 20 for mounting the switch unit 10 to a wall. The housing 20 houses a number of components (described next) that are part of the switch unit 10, such that the switch unit 10 is self-contained in nature. In some embodiments, the housing 20 may be a single piece. In some embodiments, the housing 20 may be made from two or more components. In some embodiments, the housing 20 is configured for mounting the switch unit, for example to a wall (such that the switch unit 10 is a wall mountable switch unit). In some embodiments, a mounting box (not shown) may be used to mount the housing 20 and therefore the switch unit 10.

[0052] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 includes a switch 22 for activation by a user. The switch 22 is activated by a user when the user wants to trigger an activation event.

[0053] In the example shown in Figure 1, the switch 22 includes two push buttons 24a, 24b. It is preferable that there are two or more push buttons for redundancy. However, some embodiments may have a single push button only. In some embodiments, the push buttons 24a, 24b are spring loaded.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 1, the switch 22 also includes a press plate 26. The press plate 26 provides a larger surface for the user to trigger the switch, compared to a push button 24a, 24b. When the user directly presses down on the press plate 26, the press plate 26 in turn presses down on at least one push button 24a,b in order to trigger / activate the activation event. The press plate 26 is unbreakable so that it is not necessary to fit out a replacement press plate, thus avoiding the need for a manual reset to the switch unit 10. The press plate 26 depresses such that it returns to its normal position following the trigger of the switch 22 by the user. In some embodiments, the depressing of the press plate 26 can take place immediately after the user triggers the switch 22. In some embodiments, the depressing of the press plate 26 can take place during or after the electronic reset to the switch unit 10 is complete. The press plate 26 also provides a larger surface to have signage on the plate compared to a push button 24a, 24b. In some embodiments, the press plate 26 is see through. That is, the press plate 26 can be transparent or translucent. In some embodiments, the press plate 26 is backlit to indicate the operational status of the switch unit 10. For example, the press plate 26 is backlit: green to indicate a normal status, red to indicate an activation event being activated.

[0055] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 also includes a switching circuit 28. The switching circuit 28 is contained inside the housing 20. The switching circuit 28 can be seen as an electrical switch as follows. The switching circuit 28 is configured to switch to operating in the activation mode in response to the triggering of the switch 22 by the user. When the switching circuit 28 switches to operating in the activation mode, this activates a series of electrical processes that leads to activation of the activation event, which will be described in detail later. The switching circuit 28 is also configured to switch to operating in the reset mode such that the switch unit 10 is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event. As will be described in more detail later, the switching circuit 28 switches to operating in the reset mode based on a change in a least one electrical input into the switch unit 10. When the switching circuit 28 switches to operating in the reset mode this activates a series of electrical processes that leads to an electronic reset of the switch unit 10, preferably such that the switching circuit 28 can be reactivated for a future activation event by switching to the activation mode in response to a future user triggering the switch 22.

[0056] The switching circuit 28 can be a single circuit, a portion of a larger circuit, or be made from a plurality of circuits. That is, the switch unit 10 can contain one or more switching circuits. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28 is a latching circuit, such that the latching circuit is in a latched state when in the activation mode, and the latching circuit is in an unlatched state when in the reset mode. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28 is or comprises a relay 30. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28 is or comprises a solenoid 32. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28 is or comprises a solid state circuit 33. In some embodiments, the switching circuit comprises or is operatively connected to a mechanical latch 34.

[0057] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 also includes a control circuit 36. The control circuit 36 is for controlling the operation of the switch unit 10. The control circuit 36 can be a single circuit, a portion of a larger circuit, or be made from a plurality of circuits. That is, the switch unit 10 can contain one or more control circuits. In some embodiments, the control circuit 36 is configured to break the electrical contact between the external control system 12 and the activation input system 14 in response to the switching circuit 28 switching to operating in the activation mode. In some embodiments, the control circuit 36 is configured to re-establish the electrical contact between the external control system 12 and the activation input system 14 in response to the switching circuit 28 switching to operating in the activation mode in response to the switching circuit 28 switching to operating in the reset mode.

[0058] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 includes a reset switch 38. The reset switch 38 allows for a local in-person reset of the switch unit 10. For example, a technician can trigger the reset switch 38 such that the switching circuit 28 switches to operating in the reset mode to electronically reset the switch unit 10.

[0059] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 includes one or more terminal blocks 40. In the example shown in Figure 1, the switch unit has three terminal blocks 40a-c. The terminal blocks provide an interface between the circuity in the switch unit 10 to the other parts of the activation system 1, including connections to / from a power input 42, the external control system 12 (via connection 16), and the activation input system 14 (via connection 18). In some embodiments, a first terminal block (e.g. 40a) can provide a terminus to the external control system 12 and / or the activation input system 14, and a second terminal block (e.g. 40b) can provide a terminus to the power input 42. In such embodiments, the switch unit 10 can have a further switch to link power between terminal blocks, such that the switch unit 10 can be configured between being reset remotely and being reset automatically. For example, the power can be linked from the first terminal block 40a to the second terminal block 40b to enable the switch unit to be reset automatically instead of remotely. In some embodiments, a third terminal block 40 (e.g. 40c) may be reserved for auxiliary purposes, for example to provide status monitoring.

[0060] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 has a printed circuit board (not shown in Figure 1) which contains any of the components above, including any one or more of: the switch 22, the switching circuit 28, the mechanical latch 34, the control circuit 36, the reset switch 38, the terminal block(s) 40. Any of these mentioned components found on the printed circuit board can accordingly be wholly contained inside the housing 20.

[0061] In addition to the switch unit 10, some embodiments of the activation system 1 also include an external control system 12. The external control system 12 facilitates the control of the switch unit 10, either remotely and / or automatically. For example, the external control system 12 can be located in a remote control room, such that the resetting of the switch unit 12 can be done remotely by an operator sitting in the control room and / or automatically without intervention from the operator. In some embodiments, the external control system 12 is an electronic (access) control system (such as electronic control system 112 for example which will be described later).

[0062] Some embodiments of the activation system 1 also include an activation input system 14. The switching circuit 28 is operatively connected to activation input system 14. That is, the activation input system 14 is configured to receive an electrical input from the switch unit 10 based on the switching of operation mode of the switching circuit 28, which will be described in more detail. In some embodiments, the activation input system 14 is an electronic (door) lock (such as electronic lock 114 for example which will be described later). The electronic (door) lock can be energised and de-energised based on the mode of operation the switching circuit 28 switches to.

[0063] Turning to the operation of the switch unit 10, how switch unit embodiments 10 activate an activation event will be firstly described, then the remote and / or automatic resetting of the switch unit 10 embodiments will be described.

[0064] To activate an activation event, a user triggers the switch 22 on the switch unit 10. By way of example, this may be done when the user directly pushes down on the press plate 26. The pushing down on the press plate 26 in turn presses down on at least one push button 24a,b. The pushing down on one or more push buttons 24a,b results in the switch 22 being activated. This is simply one way of activating the switch 22, and there may be other ways of activating the switch 22, depending on the configuration of the switch 22 (for example the feature / s that the switch contains). In response to the switch 22 being activated, the switching circuit 28 switches to operating in an activation mode. The switching to operating in the activation mode begins one or more events that results in disruption of power supplied to the activation input system 14. The disruption in power could be a reduction in power, or a complete cut-out in power for example. The disruption in power can be done for example by breaking an electrical circuit between the external control system 12 and the activation input system 14, however other ways may be possible. The disruption in power to the activation input system 14 results in activation of the activation event. The activation event could be the unlocking of an electronically-locked door for example.

[0065] Following the triggering of the switch 22 by a user, the switch 22 can be configured to depress either immediately after being activated by the user, or can be configured to depress at a later time, either before or during the electronic reset of the switch unit 10. This may be achieved for example by making the push buttons 24a,b spring loaded for example, such that the push buttons 24a,b and the press plate 26 return to their original positions after being pressed down by the user. It is also preferable that the press plate 26 is unbreakable such that it is unnecessary for a technician to install a replacement press plate on-site.

[0066] The switch unit 10 can be electronically reset to facilitate a remote and / or automatic reset of the switch unit 10 as follows. The switch unit 10 receives a change in an electrical input that triggers the reset. In some embodiments, the received change in an electrical input is external to the switch unit 10. That is, the change in electrical input originates from outside the switch unit 10 so that the reset is remote and / or automatic in nature. The change an electrical input to the switch unit 10 switches the switching circuit to operating in the reset mode (for example a switch from the activation mode): • For example, the change in electrical input can come from the power input 42. The switching circuit 28 switches to operating in the reset mode when there is a change in the power input 12. In one example, the change in power input can include receiving a "1" Boolean signal (that is, receiving a signal prompts a switch to the reset mode). In another example, the change in power input can include receiving a "0" Boolean signal (that is, a lack of a received signal prompts a switch to the reset mode). The change in power input 12 can be provided remotely (for an remote reset of the switch unit 10) but can also be provided automatically (for an automatic reset of the switch unit 10). In some embodiments, the power input 42 may be derived from the power coming from the external control system 12. In some embodiments, the power input 42 may be sourced from an independent power source separate to the external control system 12. • Additionally or alternatively, the change in electrical input can come from the external control system 12 via connection 16. In some embodiments, there may be a cycling of power provided from the external control system 12 to the switch unit 10. The cycling of power from the external control system 12 can be provided remotely (for an remote reset of the switch unit 10) but can also be provided automatically (for an automatic reset of the switch unit 10). The switching of the switching circuit 28 to the reset mode restores and / or stabilises power to the activation input system 14. This can be done for example by re-establishing an electrical connection to form an electrical circuit between the external control system 12 and the activation input system 14, however other ways may be possible. The restoration and / or stabilisation of power to the activation input system 14 completes the reset, such that the switch unit 10 can be activated again for a future activation event.

[0067] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 can be reset locally in person. In such embodiment, a technician activates a reset switch 28, which may be a small push button for example. The activation of the reset switch 28 switches the switching circuit 28 to operating in the reset mode (for example a switch from the activation mode). The switching of the switching circuit 28 to the reset mode restores and / or stabilises power to the activation input system 14. This can be done for example by re-establishing an electrical connection to form an electrical circuit between the external control system 12 and the activation input system 14, however other ways may be possible. The restoration and / or stabilisation of power to the activation input system 14 completes the reset, such that the switch unit 10 can be activated again for a future activation event.

[0068] In some embodiments, the switch unit 10 may be configured with an override to disable the automatic and / or remote resetting of the switch unit 10. For example, there may be an insert or screw (not shown) that is provided for the switch 22. The insert or screw may mechanically push down on a push button 24a,b or on the press plate 26 such that the switch 22 remains activated, thereby keeping the switching circuit 28 in the activation mode. 2. Emergency door release embodiments

[0069] Turning to exemplary emergency door release embodiments 100, 200 with reference to Figures 2A-5F. The emergency door release embodiments are considered to fall within the scope of the general embodiments of the mountable switch units 10 as described above. Although the embodiment that follows focuses on emergency door release (often referred to as a “break glass unit”), such description is applicable to mountable switch units in general, which may include a duress call point, and the like.

[0070] The term “break glass” is a historical term that refers to a piece of glass that would be broken in case of an emergency to release a bolt on a locked door. This term has carried through to be used generically for wall mounted units that have a piece of plastic rather than glass. This plastic piece can be pushed to activate a simple switch that will unlock an electric lock.

[0071] Typically, a break glass (interchangeable with "emergency door release") is activated by building occupants wishing to exit an electronically locked door in the event of an emergency or system failure. This is achieved by interrupting a lock power circuit that runs from an electronic access control system 112 to an electric lock 114 via the break glass unit.

[0072] A break glass is typically wall mounted on the inside of an electronically locked door.

[0073] Turning to the first exemplary emergency door release embodiment 100 with reference to Figures 2A-3C.

[0074] The first exemplary electronic break glass embodiment 100 includes a housing 120, a switch 122 (that includes two push buttons 124 a,b and press plate 126), and printed circuit board 144 on which is mounted the electronic components described in this section. The printed circuit board 144 is attached to the interior of the housing 120 using board supports 147a-b.

[0075] A section of the front of the housing 120 is made from a separate captive press plate 126 that when pushed, depresses, and engages two or more electrical activation switches 124a,b that activate a separate electronic latching circuit 128 that in turn activates a control circuit 136 which interrupts a lock power circuit (that is formed by connections between the emergency door release 100, control system 112, electronic lock 114, cable 116, and cable 118) at a terminal block 140a, unlocking the associated door 114. The press plate 126 can be supported with one or more press plate guides 149a-b.

[0076] Each activation push button 124a,b can independently activate the latching circuit 128 irrespective of the state of any other activation push button 124a,b.

[0077] The latch circuit 128 will stay latched (and therefore the door will remain unlocked) until reset via a remote electrical signal (or lack thereof) is presented via a cable 142 to a terminal block 140b. The remote electrical signal may be provided by a VDC power input 143.

[0078] Alternatively the latching circuit 128 may be reset locally via a dedicated reset button 138 located within the break glass housing 120. The reset button 138 is accessed via a small hole 145 in the housing 120.

[0079] The switching circuit 128 may alternatively be reset automatically by the incoming door lock power that is provided by wires of a cable connection 116. This is achieved by linking the lock power from the terminal block 140a to the remote signal terminal block 140b. In this manner the latching circuit 128 is reset when lock power is cycled.

[0080] Once the latching circuit 128 is reset the control circuit 136 shall allow power to be restored to the electronic lock via a cable 118. Figure 3B shows wires of a cable connection 118.

[0081] A third terminal block 140c provides an auxiliary dry contact configuration that may be used to provide status monitoring to an alarm system.

[0082] In the case of a power operated door such as an automatic door, the control terminal 140a will provide a dry contact control signal that can be used to activate the door operator when the break glass has been activated.

[0083] Light from light emitting diodes 146 can be seen through the translucent press plate 126. These light emitting diodes 146 provide visual indication of the break glass status. Green indicates power is available and the latching circuit 128 is not active - that is, the latching circuit 128 is unlatched. Red indicates the latching circuit 128 has been activated -that is, the latching circuit is latched. No light indicates power is not available.

[0084] The front of the housing 120 can have a visual indicator, such as a running man symbol 148 as shown in Figure 3A.

[0085] Turning now to the second exemplary emergency door release embodiment 200 with respect to Figures 4A-5F. Unless described otherwise, the second exemplary embodiment 200 functions the same as the first exemplary embodiment 100 (as already described with reference to Figures 3B and 3C). The differences with the second exemplary embodiment 200 will be described with reference to Figures 4A-D.

[0086] Turning to Figures 4A and 4B, the second exemplary embodiment 200 has a housing that is formed from three components: a housing case 220a, a housing base 220b, and a housing facia 220c.

[0087] The housing case 220a is supported by the housing base 220c. The emergency door release 200 has an internal tamper switch (not shown) that is configured to detect whether the housing case 120a is removed from the housing base 220b. The housing facia 220c is provided for aesthetic purposes. The tamper switch is connected directly to a terminal block (not shown) from which installers may choose to use to monitor the switch status via a cable and to a separate alarm system.

[0088] The housing facia 220c shown in Figures 4A-B is green, but other colours may be used instead. The housing facia 220c can also have text printed or embossed on it. Although not shown, the housing facia 220c may display "Emergency Door Release". The housing case 220a, housing base 220b, and housing facia 220c are designed to give the overall emergency door release unit 200 an overall rounded appearance.

[0089] The second exemplary embodiment 200 has a press plate 226 centered at the front of the emergency door release unit 200. The press plate 226 is also larger than what is found on the first exemplary embodiment 100. The press plate 225 also has the running man symbol 248 printed on. In the example of Figures 4A-4B, the press plate 226 is backlit green to indicate that the emergency door release unit 200 has been activated. Optionally and as shown in Figure 4B, the emergency door release 200 may have a cover 200 to prevent accidental activation of the unit.

[0090] Figure 4C shows a bottom perspective view of the emergency door release 200. The bottom of the emergency door release 200 has an override screw 241 to disable the automatic and / or remote resetting of the emergency door release 200 by keeping the latching circuit 228 (see Figure 4D) in activation mode. The bottom of the emergency door release 200 also has a case fixing screw 243 that affixes the housing case 220a to the housing base 220b. The bottom of the emergency door release 200 also has a reset button hole 245 that enables a technician to manually reset the emergency door release 200 if and when needed.

[0091] Figure 4D shows an exploded front perspective view of the emergency door release 200 and mounting box 202. The mounting box 202 is optional and allows for the emergency door release 200 to be mounted, for example to a wall, post, pole, or the like.

[0092] Figure 4D also shows an exploded view of several components that are included in the emergency door release 200. They include: a housing case 220a, housing base 220b, housing facia 220c, printed circuit board 244, and cover 250. The housing case 220a has press plate guides 249 a-b to support the press plate 226. The printed circuit board 244 has four push buttons 224a-d. The printed circuit board 244 also has a latching circuit 228 in the form of an integrated chip.

[0093] Figures 5 A-F respectively show front perspective, front, top, bottom, left, and right views of the emergency door release 200. 3. Effects

[0094] Embodiments of the mountable switch unit may have one or more of the following effects: • The switching circuit in the mountable switch unit is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode such that the switch unit is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event. The automatic and / or remote resetting of the mountable switch unit means that a manual in person resetting of a mountable switch unit is not necessary. o Further, the avoidance of needing a manual reset removes the hassle of sending a technician out onto site to manually reset the mountable switch unit in person. o Further, the avoidance of needing a manual reset to the mountable switch unit means there are no security issues that exist in the meantime prior to the manual reset. For example, there are no security issues around having a door left unlocked until the technician is sent out to manually reset the mountable switch unit in person. • In some embodiments two or more push buttons as part of the switch for redundancy: o This provides a fail-safe mechanism such that the direct or indirect pushing of only one button is sufficient for a user to trigger the activation event. o Further, if one push button fails to work, it remains possible for the user to trigger the activation event by pushing on another push button, whether directly or indirectly.

[0095] Thus, in one aspect, there is provided a mountable switch unit 10, 100, 200 for an activation event. The switch unit 10, 100, 200 comprises a switch 22, 122 for activation by a user. The switch unit 10, 100, 200 comprises a switching circuit 28, 128, 228 having an activation mode and a reset mode. The switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the activation mode in response to activation of the switch 22, 122 to activate the activation event. The switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode such that the switch unit 10, 100, 200 is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event. The mountable switch unit 10, 100, 200 may be a wall mountable switch unit.

[0096] In some embodiments, the mountable switch unit 10, 100, 200 is operatively connected to an activation input system 14, 114. In some embodiments, in the reset mode, power to the activation input system 14, 114 is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event. In some embodiments, the switch unit includes a housing 20, 120, 220a-c comprising the switch 22, 122 and the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 optionally wherein the housing 20, 120, 220a-c is configured for mounting the switch unit 10, 100, 200, optionally to a wall. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in electrical input 16, 42, 116, 142 to the switch unit 10, 100, 200. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in the received power input signal 42, 142 to the switch unit 10, 100, 200. In some embodiments, the switch unit 10, 100, 200 is configured to receive an input power signal 42, 142 such that the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 switches to operating in the reset mode based on the received power signal 42, 142, or lack thereof. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to switch from the activation mode to the reset mode when the switch unit 10, 100, 200 receives the input power signal 42, 142. In some embodiments, when switched to the reset mode, power is restored and / or stabilised to the activation input system 14, 114 to enable reactivation of the future activation event. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 switches to operating in the reset mode based on cycling of power to the switch unit 10, 100, 200. In some embodiments, the cycling of power to the switch unit 10, 100 is through an external control system 12, 112 operatively connected to the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 and / or an input power signal 42, 142. In some embodiments, power in the activation input system 14, 114 is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event. In some embodiments, the mountable switch unit 10, 100, 200 further comprises a reset switch 38, 138 for a local reset of the switch unit 10, 100, 200 preferably the reset switch 38, 138 is a reset button 138. In some embodiments, the switch unit 10, 100, 200 is configured to activate the activation event by interrupting power to an activation input system 14, 114 operatively connected to the switch unit 10, 100, 200. In some embodiments, the activation input system 14, 114 is interrupted when the switch circuit 28, 128, 228 is switched to operating in the activation mode such that the activation event is activated. In some embodiments, the switch 22, 122 comprises one or more push buttons 24a,b, 124a,b, 224a-d, preferably two or more push buttons. In some embodiments, the one or more push buttons 24a,b, 124a,b, 224a-d are spring loaded. In some embodiments, the switch circuit 28 is configured to switch to the activation mode in response to the at least one push button 24a,b, 124a,b, 224a-d being pressed. In some embodiments, the switch 22, 122 comprises a press plate 26, 126, 226. In some embodiments, the press plate 26, 126, 226 is unbreakable by manual force. In some embodiments, the press plate 26, 126, 226 is configured to be pushed directly by the user. In some embodiments, the direct pushing of the press plate 26, 126, 226 pushes down on the one or more push buttons 24a,b, 124a,b, 224a-d. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is operatively connected to a mechanical latch 34, optionally the mechanical latch 34 is reset electronically via an electronic solenoid 32. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is or comprises a relay 30. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is or comprises a solid state circuit 33. In some embodiments, the switch unit 10, 100, 200 further comprises a control circuit 36, 136. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is configured to maintain the activation event when switched to the activation mode. In some embodiments, the activation event ceases in response to the switching circuit 28, 128 switching to the reset mode. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 28, 128, 228 is a latching circuit 128, 228, the activation mode is a latched state, and the reset mode is an unlatched state. In some embodiments, the switch unit 10, 100, 200 is an emergency door release, and the activation event is an unlocking of a door. In some embodiments, the switch unit 10, 100, 200 is a duress call point, and the activation event is a call for emergency assistance.

[0097] In another aspect, there is provided an activation system 1 comprising: a mountable switch unit 10, 100, 200 according to any embodiment of the previous aspect; and an external control system 12, 112 and / or an activation input system 14, 114.

[0098] In another aspect, there is provided an emergency door release 100, 200 for unlocking an electronically locked door. The emergency door release 100, 200 comprises a housing 120, 220a-c for mounting the emergency door release 100, 200 (for example to a wall). The emergency door release 100, 200 comprises a switch 122 for activation by a user. The emergency door release 100, 200 comprises a latching circuit 128, 228 having a latched state and an unlatched state. The latching circuit 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the latched state in response to activation of the switch 122 to unlock the electronically locked door. The latching circuit 128, 228 is configured to switch to operating in the unlatched state such that the emergency door release 100, 200 is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future unlocking of the electronically locked door.

[0099] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0100] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Claims

1. A mountable switch unit for an activation event, comprising:a switch for activation by a user; anda switching circuit having an activation mode and a reset mode;wherein the switching circuit is configured to:switch to operating in the activation mode in response to activation of the switch to activate the activation event; andswitch to operating in the reset mode such that the switch unit is automatically and / or remotely reset for a future activation event.

2. The mountable switch unit according to claim 1, wherein the mountable switch unit is operatively connected to an activation input system.

3. The mountable switch unit according to claim 2, wherein in the reset mode, power to the activation input system is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

4. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch unit includes a housing comprising the switch and the switching circuit, optionally wherein the housing is configured for mounting the switch unit, optionally to a wall.

5. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in electrical input to the switch unit.

6. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is configured to switch to operating in the reset mode based on a change in the received power input signal to the switch unit.

7. The mountable switch unit according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the switch unit is configured to receive an input power signal such that the switching circuit switches to operating in the reset mode based on the received power signal, or lack thereof.

8. The mountable switch unit according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the switching circuit is configured to switch from the activation mode to the reset mode when the switch unit receives the input power signal.

9. The mountable switch unit according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein when switched to the reset mode, power is restored and / or stabilised to the activation input system to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

10. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit switches to operating in the reset mode based on cycling of power to the switch unit.

11. The mountable switch unit according to claim 10, wherein the cycling of power to the switch unit is through an external control system operatively connected to the switching circuit and / or an input power signal.

12. The mountable switch unit according to claim 12, wherein power in the activation input system is restored and / or stabilised to enable reactivation of the future activation event.

13. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the wall mountable switch unit further comprises a reset switch for a local reset of the switch unit, preferably the reset switch is a reset button.

14. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch unit is configured to activate the activation event by interrupting power to an activation input system operatively connected to the switch unit.

15. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the activation input system is interrupted when the switch circuit is switched to operating in the activation mode such that the activation event is activated.

16. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch comprises one or more push buttons, preferably two or more push buttons.

17. The mountable switch unit according to claim 16, wherein the one or more push buttons are spring loaded.

18. The mountable switch unit according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the switch circuit is configured to switch to the activation mode in response to the at least one push button being pressed.

19. The mountable switch unit according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the switch comprises a press plate.

20. The mountable switch unit according to claim 19, wherein the press plate is unbreakable by manual force.

21. The mountable switch unit according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the press plate is configured to be pushed directly by the user.

22. The mountable switch unit according to and one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the direct pushing of the press plate pushes down on the one or more push buttons.

23. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is operatively connected to a mechanical latch, optionally the mechanical latch is reset electronically via an electronic solenoid.

24. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is or comprises a relay.

25. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is or comprises a solid state circuit.

26. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch unit further comprises a control circuit.

27. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is configured to maintain the activation event when switched to the activation mode.

28. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the activation event ceases in response to the switching circuit switching to the reset mode.

29. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switching circuit is a latching circuit, the activation mode is a latched state, and the reset mode is an unlatched state.

30. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch unit is an emergency door release, and the activation event is an unlocking of a door.

31. The mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the switch unit is a duress call point, and the activation event is a call for emergency assistance.

32. An activation system comprising:a mountable switch unit according to any one of the previous claims; and an external control system and / or an activation input system.

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