Security doorstop and alarm

Abstract

Security doorstop assemblies (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) configured for use with a door (12; 412; 512; 612; 712). The doorstop assemblies include a detent assembly (20; 420; 522; 622; 722) attachable to a wall (429; 529; 629; 729) proximate a header (16; 416; 516; 616; 716) of a doorframe (14; 414; 514; 614; 714) associated with the door. The detent assembly includes means (24, 26; 424a, 424b 424c; 540, 542a, 542b, 544; 640, 642a, 642b, 644; 746, 748a, 748b, 750) for allowing movement of the detent assembly between an inactive position, in which the detent assembly is proximate the wall and out of the contact with the door, and an active position, in which the detent assembly is remote from the wall and oriented to arrest the movement of the door as it is being swung open. Methods for securing a door using the doorstop assemblies are also disclosed.

Description

SECURITY DOORSTOP AND ALARMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to (1) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 607,246 filed December 7, 2023; (2) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 666,990 filed July 2, 2024; and (3) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.63 / 702,793 filed October 3, 2024, the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This application and the inventions disclosed herein relate to systems for barricading a door, such as is useful in preventing forced entry into a dwelling or business.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Schools and other facilities are constantly attempting to prevent an intruder from entering classrooms, offices, and the like. In intruder situations, many places go into a lockdown situation where people remain in place. The responders often take many minutes before they can reach the situation if no security is readily present and, as such, keeping the occupants of a room safe from entry by an intruder is critically important while waiting for responders. An effective door barricade is needed to allow time for the responders to arrive and protect the room occupants.

[0004] The devices attempting to deal with the aforementioned security situations have used various approaches. There are devices that attach to the door jam (e.g., U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0128025), but the door can still easily by kicked in. thereby breaking the doorjamb. There are a number of other devices that attach between the inside face of the door and the floor (see U.S. Patent No. 5,590.918), but they all have a removable pin. key or the like, which can be lost or stolen, rendering the device useless in an emergency.

[0005] Various physical security measures can be used with doors at a dwelling or business that are designed to discourage forced entry into the premises. Conventionally, there is known a door stopper for locking a door in an open state. Such a door stopper is generally constituted by a hook member arranged on the door, and a mating part that is arranged to be protruding from the floor surface or the w all surface and that can engage and thereby lock the hook (see U.S. Patent Publication No. 2021 / 0388652).

[0006] However, the foregoing solutions all face a myriad of problems. For instance, protrusions from a floor could lead to trip hazards, while latching mechanisms typically require manual deployment, are bulky7and / or require modification of the door itself.

[0007] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide solutions for securing a door that can be easily actuated, do not require modifications of the door itself and are concealable so as not to stand out visually.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention involves a security doorstop that is convenient to deploy and easily actuated. The doorstop is detached from the door itself, minimizing the number of modifications needed to make use of the present invention. Moreover, there are times when a user of a door will want to partially open a door (e.g., to receive a package), but wants to remain safe from forced entry. The present invention therefore provides a means to allow for the door to be opened partially while blocking the door from opening beyond a certain point.

[0009] In a first embodiment of the present invention, a deployable arm element, which includes a pair of connected segments, is adapted to be situated on a wall or doorframe adjacent to a hinged (i.e., pivotable) door such that the arm interfaces with the door when the arm is deployed from its inactive (i.e., stowed) position to its active position. When the arm is deployed, the first arm segment extends from the adjacent wall and is coupled to same. Thesecond arm segment meets the first arm segment at a joint and is bent at an angle relative to the first arm segment, thereby allowing the second arm segment to come into contact with the door at a pre-determined location when the arm is deployed. As will be described hereinbelow, multiple deployable arm elements can be available on the same door. When deployed, the arm element prevents the door from opening beyond a certain point, which can, in some embodiments, be varied by adjusting the arm element (e.g., adjusting the length of the arm). When not in use, the one or more deployable arm elements can be folded or otherwise compacted to avoid contact with the door altogether, allowing the door to open completely without interference from the arm element(s).

[0010] In other embodiments, the doorstop arm element can be integrated within the frame of the door. Specifically, a specialized doorframe element (e.g., a header) can be implemented around the door, which frame is attached to the door stop element (e.g., an arm element). For instance, the arm element can be contiguous with the doorframe when the doorstop is not in use, but is deployable to an active position when actuated. In such embodiments, the deployable arm element can extend and retract from the frame. Furthermore, the arm element can be adapted for concealment in the frame when not in use, such that it is effectively camouflaged in the frame. The doorframe can also include a stop that prevents the arm element from pivoting, for instance, past a certain extended or rest position (e.g., ninety degrees from its initial retracted position).

[0011] In some embodiments, a second pivoting arm element can be integrated with the doorframe, including the sides and / or the top of the door. This second pivoting arm element can be used in combination with the first pivoting arm element to provide a second point of contact and further reinforce the door against forced opening. Alternatively, the arm elements could be used independently. In some embodiments, the arm elements are the same length. This might be useful, if, for instance, the different positions of the arms would permit the doorto open different distances. Specifically, this could be implemented by having the second arm element closer to the hinged side of the door, thereby allowing for greater opening of the door before the stop position is reached. In such an embodiment, a user or an automated system can modify the stop position of the door in a selective and customized fashion. This concept can be replicated for embodiments in which the doorstop arms are positioned to the sides of the door and / or doorframe. Similarly, positioning one doorstop arm to a side of the door and another doorstop along the top of the door can also be used in combination to provide two points of contact and further reinforce the door against forced opening.

[0012] In some embodiments, a pressure switch can be provided that would trigger an alarm when actuated by an attempt at forced entry through the arrested door. To accommodate such a switch, a slotted pocket or other docking receptacle can be provided on the doorframe such that the switch and, hence, the alarm would not be triggered when the door is in a closed position.

[0013] In other embodiments, a piston arrangement can be used in combination with a slidable doorstop member. When in use, the doorstop member slides along an angled track to achieve a position in which the door is arrested and the opening created thereby is obstructed. Just as easily, the doorstop member can be slid back into its original position along the angled track allowing the door to be opened fully.

[0014] In further embodiments, a doorstop element integrated in the doorframe can be adapted to pop-out or be pulled out of the doorframe. It can then be rotated (e.g., by ninety degrees) into an active position in which the door is arrested and therefore obstructed from opening fully. To return it to its inactive state, the doorstop element can be rotated and then pushed back into its original inactive position in which it is contiguous with the doorframe, thereby allowing the door to be opened fully.

[0015] In another embodiment of the present invention, the doorstop can be adapted to reciprocate into and out of a cavity in the floor near the door. In such an embodiment, the doorstop is adapted to protrude from the floor to provide a physical barrier to the opening of the door, again allowing only a partial opening of the door when the floor-mounted doorstop is deployed. This floor-mounted doorstop can be actuated manually, or automatically (e.g., through a mobile phone application). In certain embodiments, the top of the floor-mounted doorstop can be stylized to match the adjacent flooring. For instance, in a wooden floor, the top of the doorstop could resemble a knot in the nearby wooden flooring. In such an embodiment, when retracted into the floor, the doorstop would blend in with its surroundings by imitating a knot in the flooring. In embodiments with multiple floor-mounted doorstops, they could be placed such that the door contacts all of them simultaneously upon their actuation, whereby multiple points of contact would be provided. Alternatively, such floor-mounted doorstops could be placed for individual operation by arresting the door in different positions depending on which doorstops are activated (i.e., extended upwardly from their retracted positions).

[0016] As an added safety measure, a pressure switch can be disposed on the doorstop. When sufficient force is exerted on a door which has been arrested by such a floor-mounted doorstop, a local alarm can be sounded for the intruder to hear, or a remote security system can be notified of the intruder.

[0017] In other embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly includes an elongated arm member, an actuator subassembly including an electromechanical solenoid and a piston subassembly. The actuator subassembly is positioned on a first end of the arm member, and the piston subassembly is positioned on a second end of the arm member. The actuator subassembly and piston subassembly function together to rotate the arm member, and thereby the doorstop assembly, from a stowed position to an operational position, whereby the doorstopassembly is deployed to arrest movement of the door after it has been partially opened a desired distance. A piston of the piston subassembly also is configured to engage the door and thereby enables the doorstop assembly to function as a deadbolt lock to increase security.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly includes a base and stopper arm assembly that is at least partially contained in the base. In one such embodiment, the stopper arm assembly includes a rod that pivots to move the doorstop assembly between a stowed position and an operational position in which a portion of the stopper arm is capable of arresting the movement of a door that is being opened. The degree to which the door is allowed to open can be varied by adjusting the length of the rod, which adjustment can be achieved without requiring disassembly of the doorstop assembly.

[0019] In other embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly includes a base and stopper arm assembly that is at least partially contained in the base. In one such embodiment, the stopper arm assembly includes a rod that rotates to move the doorstop assembly between a stowed position and an operational position in which a portion of the stopper arm is brought into contact wi th the door. In another such embodiment, the stopper arm includes a linear actuator that rotates to move the doorstop assembly between a stowed position and an operational position in which a portion of the stopper arm is brought into contact with the door. The linear actuator also enables the doorstop assembly to close the door and function as a deadbolt lock to increase security.

[0020] In other embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly is configured for a swingable entranceway door having an upper edge bordered by a header of a doorframe. The doorstop assembly comprises a detent assembly attachable to a wall at a location proximate the header of the doorframe. The detent assembly includes means for allowing movement of the detent assembly between an inactive position, in which the detent assembly is located proximate the wall and out of contact with the door, whether it is closed or being swung open,and an active position, in which the detent assembly is remote from the wall and oriented to arrest the movement of the door as it is being swung open, thereby preventing the door from being fully opened.

[0021] In an embodiment of the doorstop assembly, the movement allowing means is automatically actuatable. In some embodiments, the movement allowing means is remotely actuatable.

[0022] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the detent assembly is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position.

[0023] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the detent assembly directly or indirectly contacts the door to arrest its movement. In some embodiments, the detent assembly includes a member configured to physically contact the door to arrest its movement.

[0024] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the detent assembly is an arm assembly. In the description of such embodiments, the terms ‘'detent assembly” and “arm assembly” are used interchangeably.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly further comprises a base configured to be secured to the wall at a location above and proximate the header of the doorframe, wherein the arm assembly is pivotably attached to the base.

[0026] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the arm assembly is configured to pivot vertically from its inactive position to its active position.

[0027] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, at least a portion of the arm assembly has an adjustable length such that a distance between the wall and an end of the arm assembly farthest from the wall is variable.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly further comprises a housing configured to contain at least a portion of the arm assembly when the arm assembly is in its inactive position, wherein the base forms part of the housing. In some embodiments,at least a portion of the arm assembly is stored substantially within the base when the arm assembly is in its inactive position, and at least a portion of the arm assembly is deployed substantially outside of the base when the arm assembly is in its active position.

[0029] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly , the base has an open face and a removable cover configured to be secured to the open face. The cover defines a slot therein that is configured to allow passage of the arm assembly from the base through the cover.

[0030] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the arm assembly includes a pivotable rod having an adjustable length. In some embodiments, the pivotable rod is pivotably connected to the movement allowing means.

[0031] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the pivotable rod is configured to adjust a length of said pivotable rod without having to disassemble said doorstop assembly. The pivotable rod includes a first rod portion with opposed first and second ends; a second rod portion with opposed first and second ends; and a threaded bolt that extends between and connects the first and second rod portions. In some embodiments, the doorstop assembly further comprises a nut threadably engaging the threaded bolt, wherein the threaded bolt and nut are configured to cooperate to enable adjustment of the length of the pivotable rod to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance an associated door may be opened when the arm assembly is in its active position. In some embodiments, the first end of the second rod portion includes an opening that is configured to threadably and rotatably receive a proximal end of the threaded bolt such that the distance the threaded bolt extends from the second rod portion can be varied to adjust the length of the pivotable rod. In some embodiments, a distal end of the threaded bolt is fixedly secured within the second end of the first rod portion such that the threaded bolt does not rotate relative to the first rod portion, whereby the first rod portion is configured to conjointly rotate the threaded bolt and thereby adjust the length of the pivotable rod. In some embodiments, the threaded bolt is moveablebetween a fixed position in relation to the second rod portion, in which the nut is in contact with the first end of the second rod portion, and an adjustable position in which the threaded bolt is free to rotate relative to the second rod potion, in which the nut is rotated to not be in contact with the first end of the second rod portion.

[0032] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the pivotable rod includes a first end and the arm assembly further includes a hollow leg being configured to receive at least the first end of the pivotable rod therein. In some embodiments, the doorstop assembly further comprises connection means for releasably securing the first end of the pivotable rod within the hollow leg. In some embodiments, the connection means includes a bolt, an aperture formed in the pivotable rod and an aligned aperture formed in the hollow leg, where the aperture and aligned aperture are configured to receive the bolt therethrough. In some embodiments, an internal threading mechanism is provided within the pivotable rod and is configured to enable adjustment of the length of the pivotable rod to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance which the door may be opened when the arm assembly is in its active position.

[0033] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the arm assembly includes a rotating linear actuator having an inner member and an outer member telescopically engaging the inner member and having opposed first and second ends. The first end of the outer member is pivotably connected to the movement allowing means. In some embodiments, the arm assembly further includes a first leg extending from the first end of the outer member of the linear actuator, and at least part of the first leg is configured to contact the door.

[0034] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the arm assembly is configured to pivot horizontally from its inactive position to its active position. In some embodiments, the arm assembly includes an arm member having opposed first and second ends, and the movement allowing means includes one component of a hinge positioned on the first arm end,another cooperating component of a hinge positioned on the base member, and a pin. Both hinge components interdigitate to define a cylindrical space configured to receive the pin therethrough. In some embodiments, the doorstop assembly further comprises an actuator subassembly positioned proximate the first arm end and configured to cause the arm assembly to rotate away from the wall between its active position and its inactive position. In some embodiments, the doorstop assembly further comprises a piston subassembly positioned proximate the second arm end and includes a housing and a piston that extends from within the housing; and a door dock having a first portion configured to be secured to the door and a second portion configured to receive a portion of the piston therethrough when the arm assembly is in its inactive position.

[0035] In some embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly further comprises means for attaching the base to the wall, wherein the attachment means includes a reinforcement member.

[0036] In some embodiments of the doorstop assembly, the door-contacting member includes a protective pad.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present invention, the doorstop assembly further comprises a pressure switch and an alarm operably connected to the pressure switch.

[0038] In another embodiment of the present invention, a method for securing a swingable entranceway door having an upper edge bordered by a header of a doorframe in a partially open position is provided. The method includes a step of providing a doorstop assembly comprising a detent assembly attachable to a wall at a location proximate the header of the doorframe. The detent assembly includes means for allowing movement of the detent assembly between an inactive position, in which the detent assembly is located proximate the wall and out of contact with the door, whether it is closed or being swung open, and an active position, in which the detent assembly is remote from the wall and oriented to arrest the movement of the door as itis being swung open, thereby preventing the door from being fully opened. The method further includes a step of mounting the doorstop assembly on the wall at a location adjacent the door.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following detailed description of various representative embodiments considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] FIG. 1 is a partial top perspective view of a door shown in combination with a pair of concealed and deployable (i.e., pivotable) doorstop assemblies integrated with a doorframe member (i.e., header), the doorstop assemblies being shown in their stowed positions;

[0041] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the door of FIG. 1 with one of the doorstop assemblies shown in a deployed (i.e., operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0042] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the door of FIG. 1 with the other doorstop assembly in a deployed (i.e.. operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0043] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of another door with concealed doorstop assemblies in the flooring beneath the door, the doorstop assemblies being shown in their retracted (i.e. stowed) positions;

[0044] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view the door of FIG. 4 with a pair of floor-mounted doorstop assemblies in their extended (i.e., operational) positions, in which the door’s movement has been arrested ;

[0045] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a door shown in combination with a pair of concealed and deployable (i.e., slidable) doorstop assemblies integrated with side and top doorframe members, the doorstop assemblies being shown in their retracted (i.e., stowed) positions;

[0046] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the door of FIG. 6 with one of the doorstop assemblies having been slid into its deployed (i.e., operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0047] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the door of FIG. 6 with the other of the doorstop assemblies having been slid into its deployed (i.e., operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0048] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view, shown in partial cross section, of the deployed doorstop assembly depicted in FIG. 7 ;

[0049] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view, shown in partial cross section, of the deployed doorstop assembly depicted in FIG. 8;

[0050] FIG. 11 is a partial top perspective view- of a door and associated frame shown in combination with a doorstop assembly that is a modified version of the doorstop assemblies of FIGS. 6-10, the modified doorstop assembly of FIG. 11 being depicted, via solid lines, in its retracted (i.e. stowed) position and, via broken lines, in its extended, but not operational, position;

[0051] FIG. 12 is a partial top perspective view' of the door of FIG. 1 1 with the doorstop assembly having been rotated from its non-operational position (depicted via broken lines) to its operational position (depicted via solid lines), in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0052] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view, shown in partial cross section, of the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position in FIG. 12;

[0053] FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0054] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 14;

[0055] FIG. 16 is a side perspective view of an inward-opening door shown in combination with the doorstop assembly of FIG. 14, the doorstop assembly being show n in a retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0056] FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 16 with the doorstop assembly shown in an extended (i.e., semi-operational) position;

[0057] FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 16 with the doorstop assembly shown in a deployed (i.e., operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0058] FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 16, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its stowed position;

[0059] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of an outward-opening door show n in combination with a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, the doorstop assembly being shown in a retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0060] FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 20 with the doorstop assembly shown in a deployed (i.e., operational) position, in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0061] FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 20, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position;

[0062] FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of an outward-opening door shown in combination with a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, the doorstop assembly being shown in a retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0063] FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0064] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24, with the doorstop assembly depicted in a retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0065] FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24, with the doorstop assembly depicted in a deployed (i.e., operational) position;

[0066] FIG. 27 is a top perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position;

[0067] FIG. 28 is a top perspective cross-sectional view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24 with a rod thereof in a first position, the section being taken along the line A — A in FIG. 24;

[0068] FIG. 29 is a top perspective cross-sectional view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24 with a rod thereof in a second position, the section being taken along the line A — A in FIG. 24;

[0069] FIG. 30 is atop plan view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24, with a cover of ahousing thereof removed to show- interior elements;

[0070] FIG. 31 is a side perspective view? of an inward-opening door show n in combination with the doorstop assembly of FIG. 24, the doorstop assembly being shown in its retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0071] FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 31, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its stow-ed position;

[0072] FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 31 with the doorstop assembly shown in its operational position in which the door’s movement has been arrested;

[0073] FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 31, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position;

[0074] FIG. 35 is a top left perspective view of a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0075] FIG. 36 is a top right perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35;

[0076] FIG. 37 is a side elevational view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, with the doorstop assembly depicted in a retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0077] FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, with the doorstop assembly depicted in a deployed (i.e., operational) position;

[0078] FIG. 39 is atop perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position;

[0079] FIG. 40 is atop plan view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, with a cover of ahousing thereof removed to show interior elements;

[0080] FIG. 41 is a top perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, with a cover of ahousing thereof removed to show interior elements;

[0081] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of an inward-opening door shown in combination with the doorstop assembly of FIG. 35, the doorstop assembly being show n in its stowed position;

[0082] FIG. 43 is a side perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 42, the doorstop assembly being shown in its stowed position;

[0083] FIG. 44 is a top perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 42, the doorstop assembly being shown in its operational position;

[0084] FIG. 45 is a side perspective view' of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 42, the doorstop assembly being shown in its operational position;

[0085] FIG. 46 is a side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 42, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position;

[0086] FIG. 47 is a side perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 42. the doorstop assembly being shown in a locked position locking the door;

[0087] FIG. 48 is a top perspective view of a doorstop assembly according to an embodiment of the invention, with the doorstop assembly being depicted in its stowed position and intact(i.e., with a cover in place on an associated housing);

[0088] FIG. 49 is a top perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 48, with the doorstop assembly being depicted in its operational position;

[0089] FIG. 50 is a top perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 48, with the cover of the housing being removed to show interior elements of the assembly;

[0090] FIG. 51 is a side perspective view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 50 (i.e., with the cover of the housing being removed to show interior elements of the assembly);

[0091] FIG. 52 is a top plan view of the doorstop assembly of FIG. 50, (i.e., with the cover of the housing being removed to show interior elements of the assembly);

[0092] FIG. 53 is side perspective view of an inward-opening door shown in combination with the doorstop assembly of FIG. 48, the doorstop assembly being shown in its retracted (i.e., stowed) position;

[0093] FIG. 54 is side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 53, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its stowed position;

[0094] FIG. 55 is a top perspective view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 53 with the doorstop assembly shown in its operational position in which the door’s movement has been arrested; and

[0095] FIG. 56 is side elevational view of the door and doorstop assembly of FIG. 53, with the doorstop assembly depicted in its operational position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0096] The following disclosure is presented to provide an illustration of the general principles of the present invention and is not meant to limit, in any way, the inventive concepts contained herein. Moreover, the particular embodiments described in this section can be used individually or in combination with some or all of the other described embodiments in each of the multitude of possible permutations and combinations obvious to a person skilled in the art.

[0097] All terms defined herein should be afforded their broadest possible interpretation, including any implied meanings as dictated by a reading of the specification, as well as any words that a person having skill in the art and / or a dictionary, treatise, or similar authority would assign thereto. Thus, and by way of example, terms such as “element,” “member” and “segment” are used interchangeably herein, it being understood that any one of these terms can be substituted for another one of the terms when describing the following exem lary embodiments of the present invention.

[0098] Further, it should be noted that, as recited herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, “the”, and “one” include the plural referents, unless otherwise stated. Additionally, the terms “comprises” and “comprising”, when used herein, specify that certain features are present in that embodiment, however, this phrase should not be interpreted to preclude the presence or addition of additional steps, operations, features, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0099] All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts contributed thereby to furthering the relevant art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents and equivalents developed in the future.

[0100] With the foregoing prefatory comments in mind, initial reference is made to FIG. 1. which shows a pair of doorstop assemblies 10, 10’ in combination with a door 12 and associated frame 14, including a header 16 and jamb 18. The doorstop assemblies 10. 10’ employ pivotable arm elements 20, 20’, respectfully, each of which is retracted into and camouflaged within header 16. The arm elements 20. 20’ can be the same length, or different lengths,depending on the specific embodiment of the present invention. Each of the arm elements 20, 20’ includes a long segment (i.e., leg) 22, 22’, respectively, and a short segment (i. e. , foot) 24, 24’, respectively. Stops 26, 26’ can be integrated with header 16 and positioned to contact the arm segments 22, 22’, respectively, in order to prevent arm elements 20, 20' from pivoting past a specific orientation (e.g., ninety degrees from their stowed positions to their operational positions). In one embodiment, the arm elements 20, 20’ have different lengths, which are specifically selected so as to ensure that both arm elements 20, 20’ contact the door 12 simultaneously, thereby creating two points of contact to reinforce the door 12 against forced entry. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, arm elements 20, 20’ have the same length. Given their differing longitudinal positions on the header 16, if both of the arm elements 20, 20’ are deployed (not shown), only the foot segment 24 of arm element 20 would contact door 12, the foot segment 24 thereby functioning as a detent member.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, arm elements 20, 20’ can be used independently of each other. With reference to FIG. 2, only arm element 20 is deployed, thereby arresting movement of door 12 after it has been partially opened to the position illustrated in FIG. 2, creating a gap (G) between the door 12 and jamb 18. As can be seen, arm element 20’ is positioned closer to the hinged edge of door 12, than arm element 20. Hence, when only arm element 20’ is deployed, as in FIG. 3, the door 12 will be allowed to open more than when only arm element 20 is deployed, thereby creating a gap (G’) which is greater than gap (G).

[0102] The pivotal movement of the doorstop assemblies 10, 10’ can be accomplished by any suitable electro-mechanical means known in the art. Actuation of any such means can be accomplished by, for instance, a manual, wall-mounted switch or button (not shown). Alternatively, the doorstop assemblies 10.10’ can be actuated remotely via software provided on a mobile phone (M) or similar device.

[0103] As an additional security feature, each foot segment 24, 24' can be provided with a pressure switch (not shown) similar in construction and operation to the pressure switches disclosed in some of the following exemplary embodiments of the present invention (see, for instance, the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, as well as the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 11-13). In operation, upon actuation of such a switch, a local alarm could be sounded as a deterrent to the intruder and / or a remote signal could be sent to the local police department or other security provider, thereby eliciting their intervention.

[0104] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, floor-mounted doorstop assemblies 110, 110’, 110” are shown in combination with a door 112 and associated frame 114, including a header (not shown) and jamb 116. In FIG. 4, the doorstop assemblies 110, 110’, 110”, which are pistonlike in construction and function, have been retracted, allowing the closed door 112 to open without obstruction. For aesthetic and / or security reasons, doorstop assemblies 110, 110’, 1 10” can be stylized to resemble surrounding knots 118 in plank-like flooring 120 situated beneath the door 112, thereby creating the illusion of fake knots 122 when the doorstop assemblies are in their retracted (i.e., stowed) positions shown in FIG. 4.

[0105] Turning now' to FIG. 5, door 1 12 is depicted in an arrested position determined by doorstop assemblies 110, 110’ , w hi ch have been remotely or manually actuated and now' extend above the flooring 1 18 to create two points of contact that arrest the door 112 in a partially open position. Although doorstop assembly 110” remains in its retracted (i.e., stowed) position in FIG. 5, upon its extension and the retraction of doorstop assemblies 110, 110’, the door 112 would be allowed to open more than what is depicted in FIG. 5.

[0106] FIGS. 6-8 illustrate a pair of doorstop assemblies 210. 210’ in combination with a door 212 and associated frame 214. including a header 216 and jamb 218. As shown in FIG. 6. the door 212 is closed and the doorstop assemblies 210, 210’ are in their retracted (i.e., stowed) positions within header 216 and jamb 218. respectively, where they are camouflaged orotherwise concealed from view. The doorstop assemblies in 210. 210’ are piston-like in both construction and function. More particularly, the doorstop assembly 210 includes a detent member 220 (shown via solid lines in FIG. 6), as well as a piston 222 and an angled cylinder 224 (show n via broken lines in FIG. 6). Similarly, the doorstop assembly 210’ includes a detent member 220' (shown via solid lines in FIG. 6), as well as a piston 222’ and an angled cylinder 224’ (shown via broken lines in FIG.6). The detent members 220, 220’ are attached to pistons 222, 222’, respectively, for reciprocating movement relative thereto. Upon actuation of the doorstop assemblies 210, 210’, the pistons 222, 222’ move the detent members 220, 220’, respectively, from their retracted (i.e., stowed) positions (see FIG. 6) to their extended (i.e., operational) positions (see FIGS. 7 and 8). It should be understood that the angles of the cylinders 224, 224’ can be selected to modify and / or adjust the amount of contact between the door 212 and the detent members 220, 220’, respectively.

[0107] FIG. 7 shows the detent member 220 extended to its operational position by piston 222. In such a position, the door 212 is obstructed by the detent member 220, creating a relatively small gap between the door 212 and jamb 218.

[0108] FIG. 8 shows the detent member 220’ extended to its operational position by piston 222’. In such a position, the door 212 is obstructed by the detent member 220’, creating a gap which can be smaller or larger than the gap illustrated in FIG. 7 between the door 212 and jamb 218.

[0109] FIG. 9 shows detent member 220 of FIG. 7 equipped with a pressure switch 226, which operates to provide security functionality. For instance, if there were an attempt to force door 212 open while the detent member 220 is in its deployed (i.e., extended or operational) position, pressure switch 226 would be depressed as a consequence, triggering (i) a local alarm sound audible to the intruder and / or (ii) a remote alarm signal, such as to the local police department or other security provider. When the detent member 220 is in its stowed (i.e., non-operational)position, the pressure switch 226 is nested in a pocket 228 or similar receptacle provided in an adjacent wall (see FIG. 9), thereby preventing inadvertent actuation of the pressure switch 226.

[0110] FIG. 10 shows detent member 220’ of FIG. 8 equipped with a pressure switch 226’, which operates to provide security functionality. For instance, if there were an attempt to force door 212 open beyond the amount depicted in FIG. 10, pressure switch 226' would be depressed as a consequence, triggering (i) a local alarm sound audible to the intruder and / or (ii) a remote alarm signal, such as to the local police department or other security provider. When the detent member is in its stowed (i.e., non-operational) position, the pressure switch 226’ is nested in a pocket 228’ or similar receptacle in an adjacent wall (see FIG. 10), thereby preventing inadvertent actuation of the pressure switch 226’.[OHl] FIGS. 11-13 show a doorstop assembly 310 that is similar, in construction and function, to the doorstop assembly 210 of FIGS. 6-10, except for the following modifications. Whereas the doorstop assembly 210 utilizes a jamb, or cylinder, 218 that is angled relative to the horizontal, the doorstop assembly 310 utilizes a jamb / cylinder 318 that is not angled (i.e., the cylinder 318 is oriented horizontally). Due to the horizontal orientation of the cylinder 318 and hence its associated piston 316, a detent member 320, which reciprocates between a retracted (i.e., stowed) position (shown via solid lines in FIG. 11) and an extended (i.e., semi- operational) position (shown via broken lines in FIGS. 1 1 and 12) conjointly with the piston 316, must be rotated from its semi-operational position shown via broken lines in FIG. 12 to its fully operational position shown via solid lines in FIG. 12, whereby detent member 320 obstructs door 312 and arrests its movement beyond what is depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13. As best seen in FIG. 13. the detent member 320 includes a pressure switch 326, which operates in the same manner as the pressure switch 226 of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6-10 to thereby provide the same security functionality. When the detent member 320 is in its retracted (i.e., stowed) position, the pressure switch 326 is nested in a pocket 328 (see FIGS. 12 and 13)or a similar receptable provided in an adjacent wall, thereby preventing inadvertent actuation of the pressure switch 326.

[0112] Needless to say. the embodiment of FIGS. 11-13 can employ multiple doorstop assemblies similar in fashion to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-3 and FIGS. 6-10, thereby creating multiple points of contact or allowing different degrees of opening for door 310. To the latter end, the piston length(s) and / or travel distance could be varied to provide different detent points for the door 310.

[0113] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a doorstop assembly 410 and FIGS. 16-19 illustrate the doorstop assembly 410 in combination with an inward-opening door 412 and associated frame 414, including a header 416 and jamb 418. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the doorstop assembly 410 includes an arm assembly, or elongated arm member, 420 having opposed first and second ends 420a and 420b, and an anchor, base, or base member, 422. The first end 420a of the arm member 420 includes one component of a hinge 424a, and the base member 422 includes the other, cooperating component of a hinge 424b, both components 424a, 424b interdigitating to define a cylindrical space configured to receive a pin 424c therethrough, whereby the arm member 420 is rotatable relative to the base member 422. The base member 422 further defines a plurality of openings 426 for receiving fastening members 428 (see FIGS. 16-19) therethrough to secure the base member 422 (and, thereby, the entire doorstop assembly 410) to a wall 429 at a location above and proximate the header 416 of the doorframe 414. While three openings 426 and three fastening members 428 are illustrated in the embodiment ofFIGS. 14-19, it will be understood that other numbers of openings and fastening members (e.g., one. two or four) are also envisioned in alternate embodiments. Further, it will be understood that the fastening members 428 may include bolts, screws, nails, anchors, pins and any combination thereof.

[0114] With continued reference to FIGS. 14-19, the doorstop assembly 410 further includes an actuator subassembly 430. The actuator subassembly 430 includes an electromechanical solenoid having an inductive coil 432 and an armature 434 partially housed within the coil 432, wherein the armature 434 has an upper end 434a and a lower end 434b. The actuator subassembly 430 further includes a bracket 436 that is configured to secure the electromechanical solenoid to the first end 420a of the arm member 420, and a substantially semicircular flange 438 extending between the base member 422 and the first end 420a of the arm member 420. The flange 438 includes first and second apertures 440, 442 that are formed therein and configured to receive the lower end 434b of the armature 434. As further discussed below, the first and second apertures 440, 442 receive the lower end 434b of the armature 434 in the stowed position and operational position of the doorstop assembly 410, respectively.

[0115] In alternate embodiments, other types of actuator assemblies / mechanisms may be utilized instead of an electromechanical solenoid.

[0116] The doorstop assembly 410 further includes a piston subassembly 444 positioned on the second end 420b of the arm member 420. The piston subassembly 444 includes a housing 446 and a piston 448 that extends from within the housing 446 (i.e., downwardly through an opening formed in a bottom surface 446a of the housing 446).

[0117] As illustrated in FIGS. 16-19, the doorstep assembly 410 also includes an L-shaped door dock 450 having a horizontal component 452 and a vertical component 454. The horizontal component 452 includes an aperture 456 that is formed therein and configured to receive a portion (i.e., a lower end) of the piston 448 therethrough when the doorstop assembly 410 is in its stowed position, as further discussed below. The vertical component 454 is configured to be secured to the door 412, and defines a plurality of openings 458 for receiving fastening members 460 therethrough to secure the door dock 450 to a top (i.e.. upper) portion of the door 412. While two openings 458 and two fastening members 460 are illustrated in theembodiment of FIGS. 16-19, it will be understood that other numbers of openings and fastening members (e.g., one, three or four) are also envisioned in alternate embodiments. Further, it will be understood that the fastening members 460 may include bolts, screws, nails, anchors, pins and any combination thereof.

[0118] FIG. 19 is a side view of the doorstep assembly 410 as installed and in its stowed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement member 462 is provided behind the wall 429 (i.e., on the side of the wall 429 opposite to the side on which the doorstep assembly 410 is installed). The reinforcement member 462 is dimensioned and positioned proximate the wall 429 to receive the base fastening members 428 therein (i.e., after the base fastening members 428 are inserted through the openings 426 in the base 422 and the wall 429 itself) to more securely attach the base 422 (and thereby the entire doorstep assembly 410) to the wall 429. In some embodiments, the reinforcement member 462 is a 2 x 4 (two by four) or other piece of lumber.

[0119] The operation of the doorstep assembly 410 will now be described. As show n in FIG. 16, the doorstop assembly 410 is in its stowed position when the door 412 is closed. The lower end of the piston 448 is inserted through the aperture 456 of the horizontal component 452 of the L-shaped door dock 450, which secures the door 412 in its closed position, thereby enabling the doorstop assembly 410 to function as a deadbolt lock. When a user wishes to open the door 412, he or she activates the actuator subassembly 430, which causes the elongated arm member 420 to rotate away from the wall 429 and move from its stowed position to an extended (i.e., semi-operational) position (as shown in FIG. 17) and ultimately to its operational position (as shown in FIG. 18). More particularly, activation of the actuator subassembly 430 causes the armature 434 of the electromechanical solenoid to move in an upward direction relative to and within the inductive coil 432, whereby the lower end 434b of the armature 434 is lifted out of the first aperture 440 in the flange 438 (where the lower end 434b is located when the doorstopassembly 410 is in its stowed position) and the armature 434 is free to rotate. At or about the same time, the piston 448 is retracted into the housing 446 of the piston subassembly 444, whereby the lower end of the piston 448 moves upwardly and out of the aperture 456. These movements cause the elongated arm member 420 to disengage from the L-shaped door dock 450 and freely rotate away from the wall 429, as shown in FIG. 17. As the elongated arm member 420 rotates away from the wall 429, the armature 434 travels along the curve of the flange 438 until the armature’s lower end 434b aligns with, and insertably engages, the second aperture 442 in the flange 438 (as shown in FIG. 18). The engagement of the lower end 434b with the second aperture 442 restricts further movement of the elongated arm member 420. At this point, the piston 448 is ejected from the housing 446 of the piston subassembly 444, moving the lower end of the piston 448 downwardly such that it contacts an inner (i.e., inwardfacing) surface of the top (i.e., upper) portion of the door 412 and thereby arrests movement of the door 412 after it has been partially opened to the position illustrated in FIG. 18, creating a gap (G) betw een the door 412 and jamb 418. When the user wishes to close the door 412, the foregoing steps are performed in reverse order, to move doorstop assembly 410 from its operational position (as shown in FIG. 18) to its stowed position (as shown in FIG. 16).

[0120] While the embodiment of the doorstop assembly 410 shown in FIGS. 14-19 is configured for inward-opening doors, variations of this doorstop assembly for use with outward-opening doors are also contemplated. Such embodiments are shown in FIGS. 20-23 and described below.

[0121] A doorstop assembly 410’ according to one such alternate embodiment is shown in FIGS. 20-22. Unless otherwise described below, the doorstop assembly 410’ includes the same or similar elements as the doorstop assembly 410 (as denoted with the same reference numeral and ’), and operates in the same or similar fashion. Given that the door 412’ opens outward, the L-shaped door dock 450’ of this embodiment has a horizontal component 452’ that issignificantly longer than the vertical component 454’ and longer than the horizontal component452 of the doorstop assembly 410. In one embodiment, the horizontal component 452’ is 8 inches long, and the vertical component is 454’ is 2 inches long (i.e., high). In another embodiment, the horizontal component 452’ is 8 inches long, and the vertical component is 454’ is 3 inches long (i.e., high). Further, the horizontal component 452’ includes both a first aperture 456’ proximate the vertical component 454’ and a second aperture 457’ distal the vertical component 454’. The first and second apertures 456' and 457’ are configured to receive a portion (i.e., a lower end) of the piston 448’ therethrough when the doorstop assembly 410’ is in its stowed position and operational position, respectively, as further discussed below.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 20, the doorstop assembly 410’ is in its stowed position when the door 412’ is closed. The lower end of the piston 448’ is inserted through the first aperture 456’ of the horizontal component 452’ of the L-shaped door dock 450’, which secures the door 412’ in its closed position, thereby enabling the doorstop assembly 410’ to function as a deadbolt lock. When a user wishes to open the door 412’, he or she activates the actuator subassembly 430’, which causes the elongated arm member 420’ of the arm assembly to rotate away from the wall 429’ and move from its stowed position to an extended (i.e., semi-operational) position (not shown) and ultimately to its operational position (as shown in FIG. 21). More particularly, activation of the actuator subassembly 430’ causes the armature 434’ of the electromechanical solenoid to move in an upward direction relative to and within the inductive coil 432’, whereby the low er end of the armature 434’ is lifted out of the first aperture in the flange 438’ (where the lower end is located when the doorstop assembly 410’ is in its stowed position) and the armature 434’ is free to rotate. At or about the same time, the piston 448’ is retracted into the housing 446’ of the piston subassembly 444’, whereby the lower end of the piston 448’ moves upwardly and out of the first aperture 456’. These movements cause the elongated arm member 420’ to disengage from the L-shaped door dock 450’ and freely rotate away from the wall 429’.As the elongated arm member 420’ rotates away from the w all 429’, the armature 434' travels along the curve of the flange 438’ until the armature’s lower end aligns with, and insertably engages, the second aperture in the flange 438’. The engagement of the lower end with the second aperture restricts further movement of the elongated arm member 420’. After the door 412’ is opened outward a desired distance, the piston 448’ is ejected from the housing 446’ of the piston subassembly 444’, moving the lower end of the piston 448’ downwardly such that it insertably engages the second aperture 457’ in the L-shaped door dock 450’ and thereby prevents further outward movement of the door 412’. When the user wishes to close the door 412’, the foregoing steps are performed in reverse order, to move doorstop assembly 410’ from its operational position (as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22) to its stowed position (as shown in FIG. 20).

[0123] FIG. 22 is a side view of the doorstep assembly 410’ as installed and in its operational position (with the door 412’ opened outward a desired distance). In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement member 462’ is provided behind the wall 429’ (i.e., on the side of the wall 429’ opposite to the side on which the doorstep assembly 410’ is installed). The reinforcement member 462’ is dimensioned and positioned proximate the wall 429’ to receive the base fastening members 428’ therein (i.e., after the base fastening members 428’ are inserted through openings in the base 422’ and the wall 429’ itself) to more securely attach the base 422’ (and thereby the entire doorstep assembly 410’) to the wall 429’. In some embodiments, the reinforcement member 462’ is a 2 x 4 (two by four) or other piece of lumber.

[0124] A doorstop assembly 410” according to another alternate embodiment is shown in FIG. 23. Unless otherwise described below, the doorstop assembly 410” includes the same or similar elements as the doorstop assembly 410 and 410’ (as denoted with the same reference numeral and”), and operates in the same or similar fashion. The L-shaped door dock 450” of this embodiment has a horizontal component 452” that is significantly longer than the verticalcomponent 454” and the horizontal component 452 of the doorstop assembly 410, but of the same or similar length as the horizontal component 452’ of the doorstop assembly 410’ discussed above. Further, the horizontal component 452” includes a longitudinal slot 459” that is configured to receive a portion (i.e., a lower end) of the piston 448” therethrough when the doorstop assembly 410” is in its stowed position, operational position and intermediate positions, as further discussed below.

[0125] The operation of the doorstop assembly 410” is similar to that of the doorstop assembly 410’, but instead of the piston 448” moving between first and second apertures in the horizontal component 452”, the piston 448” moves within the longitudinal slot 459”. More particularly, the piston 448” occupies a first position proximate the vertical component 454” when the door 412” is closed and the doorstop assembly 410” is in its stowed position (as shown in FIG. 23), and occupies a second position distal the vertical component 454” when the door 412” is opened outward a desired distance and the doorstop assembly 410” is in its operational position (not shown).

[0126] FIGS. 24-30 illustrate a doorstop assembly 510 and FIGS. 31-34 illustrate the doorstop assembly 510 in combination with an inward-opening door 512 and associated frame 514, including a header 516 and jamb 518. As shown in FIGS. 24-30, the doorstop assembly 510 includes a housing 520 and a stopper arm assembly 522. The housing 520 includes a substantially rectangular prism (i.e., cuboid) base 524 configured to contain the stopper arm assembly 522 and internal elements of the doorstop assembly 510 (as discussed below ) and a removable cover 526 configured to be secured to an open face (see FIG. 30) of the base 524. The cover 526 defines an elongated opening, or slot. 528 that is configured to allow passage of the stopper arm assembly 522 (or portions thereof) from the base 524 through the cover 526, as further discussed below.

[0127] The stopper arm assembly 522 includes a rotating rod 530 having opposed first and second ends 530a, 530b, as further discussed below. The stopper arm assembly 522 further includes an adjoining right triangle-shaped member 532 having a first leg 534 that is connected to the first end 530a of the rod 530 and colinear with the rod 530, a second leg 536 perpendicular to the rod 530 and first leg 534, and a hypotenuse member 538 extending diagonally between the first and second legs 534, 536. The second leg 536 is configured to contact the door 512, as further discussed below, and includes a protective pad or otherwise modified surface 536a in the illustrated embodiment. In alternate embodiments, the second leg 536 may be provided without a protective pad / modified surface 536a.

[0128] With continued reference to FIGS. 28-30, the rod 530 of the stopper arm assembly 522 is housed within the base 524 of the housing 520, along with a portion of the right triangleshaped member 532. The base 524 also contains other elements for operation of the doorstop assembly 510, including a pivot 540 rotatably connected to the second end 530b of the rod 530; a first gear 542a operably connected to the pivot 540; a second gear 542b operably connected to the first gear 542a; and a stepper motor 544 operably connected to the second gear 542b. These elements are further discussed below in connection with the operation of the doorstop assembly 510. In order to provide further security to supplement the doorstop assembly’s door stopping mechanism, the base 524 further contains a siren / speaker 546 and an associated battery 548 and circuit board 550.

[0129] In some embodiments, the base 524 of the doorstop assembly 510 also includes a shock sensor (not shown) that is operably attached to the circuit board 550. When a certain level of shockwave travels through the doorstop assembly 510 (i.e., from a potential intruder’s attempted breach of the door 512 / doorstop assembly 510), the shock sensor triggers the siren / speaker 546.

[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 28 and 29, the first leg 534 is hollow and configured to receive a portion of the rod 530 therein, including the first end 530a. The first end 530a of the rod 530 is secured within the first leg 534, i.e., by a bolt 551 (or other connection means), via an aperture 552 formed therein and an aligned aperture 553 in the first leg 534. The rod 530 contains an internal threading mechanism 554 which enables a user to modify the length of the rod 530 to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance which the door 512 may be opened when the doorstop assembly 510 is in its operational position. To modify7the length of the rod 530, a user first accesses the first leg 534 within the housing 520 / base 524 when the doorstop assembly 510 is in its stowed position. The user loosens and removes the bolt 551 (or other connection means) from the aperture 552 in the first end 530a of the rod 530 and aperture 553 in the first leg 534, which enables the user to separate the rod 530 and first leg 534 (see FIG. 28). The user then uses the internal threading mechanism 554 to lengthen or shorten the rod 530, while it is not connected to the first leg 534 (see FIG. 29, showing a rod 530 whose length is increased by the user). Once the desired length is obtained for the rod 530, the user reattaches the first end 530a of the rod 530 to the first leg 534 by securing the bolt 551 (or other connection means) through the aperture 552 in the first end 530a of the rod 530 and the aligned aperture 553 in the first leg 534.

[0131] FIGS. 32 and 34 are side views of the doorstep assembly 510 as installed and in its stowed position and operational position, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement member 554 is provided behind the wall 529 (i.e., on the side of the w all 529 opposite to the side on which the doorstep assembly 510 is installed). The reinforcement member 554 is dimensioned and positioned proximate the wall 529 to receive fastening members from within the base 524 of the housing 522 (i.e., after the fastening members are inserted through a wall-facing surface of the base 524 and the wall 529 itself) to more securelyattach the base 524 (and thereby the entire doorstep assembly 510) to the wall 529. In some embodiments, the reinforcement member 554 is a 2 x 4 (two by four) or other piece of lumber.

[0132] The operation of the doorstep assembly 510 will now be described, with reference to FIGS. 31-34. The doorstop assembly 510 is installed by attaching the housing 520 to the wall 529 at a location above and proximate the doorframe header 516. As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the doorstop assembly 510 is in its stowed position when the door 512 is closed.

[0133] When a user wishes to open the door 512, he or she deploys activation means (not shown), which drives the motor 544 and gears 542a, 542b to cause the pivot 540 to rotate the rod 530, and thereby the stopper arm assembly 522 (including the right triangle-shaped member 532), away from the wall 529 and base 526, through the slot 528 in the cover 526 and downward approximately 90 degrees. This rotation moves the doorstep assembly 510 from its stowed position (shown in FIGS. 31 and 32) to its operational position (shown in FIGS. 33 and 34). At this point, the door-contacting pad 536a and second leg 536 are brought into contact with an inner (i.e., inward-facing) surface of the top (i.e., upper) portion of the door 512 and thereby arrest movement of the door 512 after it has been partially opened to the position illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, creating a gap (G) between the door 512 and jamb 518. When the user wishes to close the door 512, the foregoing steps are performed in reverse order, to move doorstop assembly 510 from its operational position (as shown in FIGS. 33 and 34) to its stowed position (as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32).

[0134] The activation means that is used to cause the pivotal movement of the rod 530 of the doorstop assembly 510 can include any suitable electro-mechanical means known in the art. Actuation of any such means can be accomplished by. for instance, a manual, wall-mounted switch or button (not shown). Alternatively, the activation means of the doorstop assembly 510 can be actuated remotely via software provided on a mobile phone or similar device (not shown).

[0135] FIGS. 35-41 illustrate a doorstop assembly 610 and FIGS. 42-47 illustrate the doorstop assembly 610 in combination with an inward-opening door 612 and associated frame 614, including aheader 616 andjamb 618. Unless otherwise described below, the doorstop assembly 610 includes the same or similar elements as the doorstop assembly 510, and operates in the same or similar fashion. As shown in FIGS. 35-41, the doorstop assembly 610 includes a housing 620 and a stopper arm assembly 622. The housing 620 includes a substantially rectangular prism (i.e., cuboid) base 624 configured to contain the stopper arm assembly 622 and internal elements of the doorstop assembly 610 (as discussed below) and a removable cover 626 configured to be secured to an open face (see FIGS. 40 and 41) of the base 624. The cover 626 defines an elongated opening, or slot, 628 that is configured to allow passage of the stopper arm assembly 622 (or portions thereof) from the base 624 through the cover 626, as further discussed below.

[0136] Unlike the rod of the stopper arm assembly 522 in the doorstop assembly 510, the stopper arm assembly 622 of the doorstop assembly 610 includes a rotating linear actuator 630 having an inner member 632 and an outer member 634 that telescopically engages the inner member 632, as further discussed below'. The outer member 634 of the linear actuator 630 has opposed first and second ends 634a, 634b.

[0137] The stopper arm assembly 622 further includes a first leg 636 that extends from the first end 634a of the outer member 634 of the linear actuator 630, and a second leg 638 extending diagonally between the first leg 636 and the linear actuator 630. At least part of the first leg 636 is configured to contact the door 612, as further discussed below, and includes a protective pad or otherwise modified surface 636a in the illustrated embodiment. In alternate embodiments, the first leg 636 may be provided without a protective pad / modified surface636a.

[0138] With continued reference to FIGS. 35-41, the linear actuator 630 is housed within the base 624 of the housing 620. As shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, the base 624 also contains other elements for operation of the doorstop assembly 610, including a pivot 640 rotatably connected to the first end 634a of the outer member 634 of the linear actuator 630; a first gear 642a operably connected to the pivot 640; a second gear 642b operably connected to the first gear 642a; a stepper motor 644 operably connected to the second gear 642b; and an actuator motor 645 operably connected to the linear actuator 630. These elements are further discussed below in connection with the operation of the doorstop assembly 610. In order to provide further security to supplement the doorstop assembly’s door stopping mechanism, the base further contains a siren / speaker 646 and an associated battery 648 and circuit board 650.

[0139] In some embodiments, the base 624 of the doorstop assembly 610 also includes a shock sensor (not shown) that is operably attached to the circuit board 650. When a certain level of shockwave travels through the doorstop assembly 610 (i.e., from a potential intruder’s attempted breach of the door 612 / doorstop assembly 610), the shock sensor triggers the siren / speaker 646.

[0140] FIG. 46 is a side view of the doorstep assembly 610 as installed and in its operational position. In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement member 652 is provided behind the wall 629 (i.e., on the side of the wall 629 opposite to the side on which the doorstep assembly 610 is installed). The reinforcement member 652 is dimensioned and positioned proximate the wall 629 to receive fastening members from within the base 624 of the housing 622 (i.e., after the fastening members are inserted through a wall-facing surface of the base 624 and the wall 629 itself) to more securely attach the base 624 (and thereby the entire doorstep assembly 610) to the wall 629. In some embodiments, the reinforcement member 652 is a 2 x 4 (two by four) or other piece of lumber.

[0141] The operation of the doorstep assembly 610 will now be described, with reference to FIGS. 42-47. The doorstop assembly 610 is installed by attaching the housing 620 to the wall 629 at a location above and proximate the doorframe header 616. FIGS. 42 and 43 show the doorstop assembly 610 in its stowed position with the door 612 closed.

[0142] When a user wishes to open the door 612, he or she deploys activation means (not shown), which drives the stepper motor 644 and gears 642a, 642b to cause the pivot 640 to rotate the linear actuator 630, and thereby the stopper arm assembly 622, away from the wall 629 and base 626, through the slot 628 in the cover 626 and downward approximately 90 degrees. As the linear actuator 630 rotates downward, its outer member 634 extends aw ay from its inner member 632, as shown in FIGS. 44-46. This rotation moves the doorstep assembly 610 from its stowed position (shown in FIGS. 42 and 43) to its operational position (shown in FIGS. 44-46). At this point, the door-contacting pad 636a and first leg 636 are brought into contact with an inner (i.e., inward-facing) surface of the top (i.e., upper) portion of the door 612 and thereby arrest movement of the door 612 after it has been partially opened to the position illustrated in FIGS. 44-46, creating a gap (G) between the door 612 and jamb 618.

[0143] When the user wishes to close the door 612, he or she may perform the foregoing steps in reverse order, to move doorstop assembly 610 from its operational position (as shown in FIGS. 44-46) to its stowed position (as shown in FIGS. 42 and 43). Alternatively, the user may close and further secure the door 612 by deploying activation means (not shown) to drive the actuator motor 645 and causes the outer member 634 of the linear actuator 630 to retract and move towards the wall 629 and housing 620. whereby the outer member 634 moves over the inner member 632 (i.e., in a telescoping fashion), as shown in FIG. 47. In moving this way. the outer member 634 of the linear actuator 630 pushes the door 612 closed with the doorcontacting pad 636a and first leg 636 still in contact with the door 612. and can thereby act as a deadbolt lock to further secure the door 612 in its closed position.

[0144] The activation means that is used to cause the pivotal and linear / telescoping movements of the linear actuator 630 of the doorstop assembly 610 can include any suitable electromechanical means known in the art. Actuation of any such means can be accomplished by, for instance, a manual, wall-mounted switch or button (not shown). Alternatively, the doorstop assembly 610 can be actuated remotely via software provided on a mobile phone or similar device (not shown).

[0145] FIGS. 48-52 illustrate a doorstop assembly 710 and FIGS. 53-56 illustrate the doorstop assembly 710 in combination with an inward-opening door 712 and associated frame 714, including aheader 716 andjamb 718. Unless otherwise described below, the doorstop assembly 710 includes the same or similar elements as the doorstop assembly 510, and operates in the same or similar fashion. As shown in FIGS. 48-52, the doorstop assembly 710 includes a housing 720 and a stopper arm assembly 722. The housing 720 includes a substantially rectangular prism (i.e., cuboid) base 724 configured to contain the stopper arm assembly 722 and internal elements of the doorstop assembly 710 (as discussed below) and a removable cover 726 configured to be secured to an open face (see FIGS. 50-52) of the base 724. The cover 726 defines an elongated opening, or slot, 728 that is configured to allow passage of the stopper arm assembly 722 (or portions thereof) from the base 724 through the cover 726, as further discussed below.

[0146] As further discussed below, one difference between the doorstop assembly 710 disclosed herein and the doorstop assembly 510 is that the doorstop assembly 710 is configured so that disassembly is not required to make adjustments necessary to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or to vary the distance that an associated door may be opened when the doorstop assembly 710 is in its operational position.

[0147] The stopper arm assembly 722 includes a pivotable rod, or arm, 730 (see FIG. 49) having (i) a first rod portion 732 with opposed first and second ends 732a. 732b (see FIGS. 48-51); (ii) a second rod portion 734 with opposed first and second ends 734a, 734b (see FIGS.48, 49 and 51); and (iii) a threaded bolt 736 (see FIGS. 48, 49 and 51) that extends between the first and second rod portions 732, 734 to connect them in a manner, and for a purpose, to be described hereinbelow. The first rod portion 732 is configured to act as a carriage for a door-contacting member 737 of the stopper arm assembly 722, as further discussed below. The threaded bolt 736 is threadably engaged by a nut 738 (see FIGS. 49 and 51), and as further discussed below, the threaded bolt 736 and nut 738 enable a user to modify the length of the rod 730 to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance an associated door may be opened when the doorstop assembly 710 is in its operational position.

[0148] With continued reference to FIGS. 48-51, the stopper arm assembly 722 further includes a first leg 740 having a first end that is connected proximate the first end 732a of the first rod portion 732 and extends therefrom, and a second leg 742 having a first end that is connected proximate the second end 732b of the first rod portion 732 and extends therefrom. The first and second legs 740, 742 also have respective second ends that engage the doorcontacting member 737, which is configured to contact the door as it is being opened and with the door-stopping member 737 having been pivoted from a generally horizontal orientation it assumes in its stowed position to a generally vertical orientation it assumes in its operational (i.e., door-arresting) position. The door-contacting member 737 includes a protective pad or otherwise modified surface 744 in the illustrated embodiment. In alternate embodiments, the door-contacting member 737 may be provided without the protective pad / modified surface 744. In alternate embodiments, the stopper arm assembly 722 includes one leg rather than two legs, with the one leg extending between the pivotable rod 730 and the door-contacting member 737.

[0149] The pivotable rod 730 of the stopper arm assembly 722 is housed within the base 724 of the housing 720 when the doorstop assembly 710 is in its stowed position (i.e., when not inits operational position), as shown in FIGS. 48, 49, 51 and 52. The base 724 also contains elements for operation of the doorstop assembly 710, including a pivot 746 (see, especially, FIGS. 50-52) rotatably connected to the second end 734b of the second rod portion 734, and other elements disclosed in connection with the doorstop assembly 510 (as shown in in FIG. 30 illustrating same), including, but not limited to, a first gear 748a operably connected to the pivot 746; a second gear 748b operably connected to the first gear 748a; and a stepper motor 750 operably connected to the second gear 748b. These elements are further discussed below in connection with the operation of the doorstop assembly 710. In order to provide further security to supplement the doorstop assembly’s door stopping mechanism, the base 724 further contains a siren / speaker 752 and an associated battery 754 and circuit board 756 in some embodiments of the doorstop assembly.

[0150] The first end 734a of the second rod portion 734 includes an opening (not shown) that threadably and rotatably receives a proximal (i.e., closer to the pivot 746) end of the threaded bolt 736 such that the distance the threaded bolt 736 extends from the second rod portion 734 can be varied to thereby adjust the length of the rod 730 in a manner to be described in greater detail below. As best shown in FIGS. 49 and 51 , the nut 738 surrounding the proximal end of the threaded bolt 736 is positioned in contact with the first end 734a of the second rod portion 734, in which position (i.e., a locked position) the nut 738 prevents the threaded bolt 736 from being rotated relative to the second rod portion 734, thereby fixing the distance between the second end 732b of the first rod portion 732 and the first end 734a of the second rod portion 734 and hence the length of the rod 730. However, as discussed in greater detail below, the nut 738 can be manually rotated in one direction (e.g., a counterclockwise direction) by a user to free the threaded bolt 736 and allow the length of the rod 730 to be adjusted. Once the desired length of the rod 730 is obtained, opposite rotation of the nut 738 (e.g.. in a clockwise direction)can move it back into contact with the first end 734a of the second rod portion 734 to thereby lock the proximal end of the threaded bolt 736 in place.

[0151] In contrast, a distal (i.e., farther from the pivot 746) end of the threaded bolt 736 is fixedly secured within the second end 732b of the first rod portion 732 such that the threaded bolt 736 does not rotate relative to the first rod portion 732. As a result, the first rod portion 732 can be used to conjointly rotate the threaded bolt 736 and thereby adjust the length of the rod 730, via the method discussed below.

[0152] To adjust the length of the rod 730, a user first positions the doorstop assembly 710 in its operational position (see FIG. 49) so that the stopper arm assembly 722 and the rod 730 thereof are pivoted to be almost entirely outside the housing 720 with the door-contacting member 737 in a vertical or substantially vertical orientation. The next step involves the user rotating the nut 738 in a counterclockwise direction to unlock the threaded bolt 736 from its fixed position in relation to the second rod portion 734. In order to adjust the overall length of the rod 730 (i.e., to either increase or decrease the distance between the second end 732b of the first rod portion 732 and the first end of 734a of the second rod portion 734), the user can then rotate, in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the first rod portion 732 to thereby conjointly rotate the threaded bolt 736 that is securely and immovably (i.e., non-rotatably) connected to the first rod portion 732. Once the desired length of the rod 730 is obtained by rotatably adjusting the threaded bolt 736, the user turns the nut 738 in a clockwise direction until it contacts the first end 734a of the second rod portion 734, thereby locking the threaded bolt 736 in place relative to the second rod portion 734 such that the threaded bolt 736 is no longer rotatable relative to the second rod potion 734.

[0153] Having the threaded bolt 736 and nut 738 of the rod 730 configured to operate as discussed above enables the user to adjust the length of the rod 730 without having to disassemble the doorstop assembly 710, unlike the doorstop assembly 510 discussed above.However, the operation of the doorstop assembly 710 is otherwise generally the same as that of the doorstop assembly 510, as further discussed below.

[0154] FIGS. 54 and 56 are side views of the doorstep assembly 710 as installed in a wall 729 above the doorframe 714 and door 712 in its stowed position and operational position, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement member 754 is provided behind the wall 729 (i.e., on the side of the wall 729 opposite to the side on which the doorstep assembly 710 is installed). The reinforcement member 754 is dimensioned and positioned proximate the wall 729 to receive fastening members from within the base 724 of the housing 722 (i.e., after the fastening members are inserted through a wall-facing surface of the base 724 and the wall 729 itself) to more securely attach the base 724 (and thereby the entire doorstep assembly 710) to the wall 729. In some embodiments, the reinforcement member 754 is a 2 x 4 (two by four) or other piece of lumber.

[0155] The operation of the doorstep assembly 710 will now be described, with reference to FIGS. 52-55. The doorstop assembly 710 is installed by attaching the housing 720 to the wall 729 at a location above and proximate the doorframe header 716. As shown in FIGS. 52 and 53, the doorstop assembly 710 is in its stowed position when the door 712 is closed. After installation, a user may adjust the length of the rod 730 to accommodate dimensions of the door 712 and / or to vary the distance that the door 712 may be opened when the doorstop assembly 710 is in its operational position, as described above. The use may alternatively adjust the length of the rod 730 before installation of the doorstop assembly 710, if applicable.

[0156] When a user wishes to open the door 712. he or she deploys activation means (not shown), which drives the stepper motor 750 and gears 748a, 748b to cause the pivot 746 to rotate the rod 730, and thereby the stopper arm assembly 722, away from the wall 729 and base 726, through the slot 728 in the cover 726 and downward approximately 90 degrees. This rotation moves the doorstep assembly 710 from its stowed position (shown in FIGS. 52 and53) to its operational position (shown in FIGS. 54 and 55). At this point, the door-contacting pad 744 and door-contacting member 737 are brought into contact with an inner (i.e., inwardfacing) surface of the top (i.e., upper) portion of the door 712 and thereby arrest movement of the door 712 after it has been partially opened to the position illustrated in FIGS. 54 and 55, creating a gap (G) between the door 712 and jamb 718. When the user wishes to close the door 712, the foregoing steps are performed in reverse order, to move doorstop assembly 710 from its operational position (as shown in FIGS. 54 and 55) to its stowed position (as show n in FIGS. 52 and 53).

[0157] The activation means that is used to cause the pivotal movement of the rod 730 of the doorstop assembly 710 can include any suitable electro-mechanical means known in the art. Actuation of any such means can be accomplished by, for instance, a manual, wall-mounted switch or button (not shown). Alternatively, the activation means of the doorstop assembly 710 can be actuated remotely via software provided on a mobile phone or similar device (not shown).

[0158] It will be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art may make many variations and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For instance, all of the embodiments described herein can be actuated in the same manner as the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 (i.e., by manual means or remotely via a mobile phone or similar device). All such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention described and illustrated herein and the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) for a swingable entranceway door (12; 412; 512; 612; 712) having an upper edge bordered by a header (16; 416; 516; 616; 716) of a doorframe (14; 414; 514; 614; 714), said doorstop assembly comprising: a detent assembly (20; 420; 522; 622; 722) attachable to a wall (429; 529; 629; 729) at a location proximate the header of the doorframe; said detent assembly including means (24, 26; 424a, 424b 424c; 540, 542a, 542b, 544; 640, 642a, 642b, 644; 746, 748a, 748b, 750) for allowing movement of said detent assembly between an inactive position, in which said detent assembly is located proximate the wall and out of the contact with the door, whether it is closed or being swung open, and an active position, in which said detent assembly is remote from the wall and oriented to arrest the movement of the door as it is being swung open, thereby preventing the door from being fully opened.

2. The doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) of Claim 1, wherein said movement allowing means (24, 26; 424a, 424b 424c; 540, 542a, 542b, 544; 640. 642a, 642b, 644; 746, 748a, 748b, 750) of said detent assembly (20; 420; 522; 622; 722) is automatically actuatable.

3. The doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) of Claim 2, wherein said movement allowing means is remotely actuatable.

4. The doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) of Claim 1, wherein said detent assembly (20; 420; 522; 622; 722) is pivotable between said inactive position and said active position.

5. The doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) of Claim 4, wherein said detent assembly (20; 420; 522; 622; 722) directly or indirectly contacts the door to arrest its movement.

6. The doorstop assembly (10; 510: 610; 710) of Claim 5, wherein said detent assembly (20; 522; 622; 722) includes a member (24; 536; 636; 737) configured to physically contact the door (12; 412; 512; 612; 712) to its arrest its movement.

7. The doorstop assembly (410: 510; 610; 710) of Claim 1, wherein said detent assembly (420 522; 622; 722) is an arm assembly.

8. The doorstop assembly (410: 510; 610; 710) of Claim 7, further comprising a base (422; 524; 624; 724) configured to be secured to the wall (429; 529; 629; 729) at a location above and proximate the header (416; 516; 616; 716) of the doorframe (414; 514; 614; 714); and wherein said arm assembly (420; 522; 622; 722) is pivotably attached to said base.

9. The doorstop assembly (510; 610; 710) of Claim 8, wherein said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) is configured to pivot vertically from its inactive position to its active position.

10. The doorstop assembly (510: 610; 710) of Claim 9, wherein at least a portion of said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) has an adjustable length such that a distance between the wall and an end of said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) farthest from the wall is variable.

11. The doorstop assembly (510: 610; 710) of Claim 10, further comprising a housing (520; 620; 720) configured to contain at least a portion of said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) when said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) is in its inactive position; wherein said base (524; 624; 724) forms part of said housing (520; 620; 720); wherein at least a portion of said arm assembly is stored substantially within said base when said arm assembly is in its inactive position, and wherein at least a portion of said arm assembly is deployed substantially outside of said base when said arm assembly is in its active position.

12. The doorstop assembly (510: 610; 710) of Claim 11, wherein said base (524; 624; 724) has an open face and a removable cover (526; 626; 726) configured to be secured to said open face, and wherein said cover (526; 626; 726) defines a slot (528; 628; 728) therein being configured to allow passage of said arm assembly (522; 622; 722) from said base (524; 624; 724) through said cover (526; 626; 726).

13. The doorstop assembly (510: 710) of Claim 12, wherein said arm assembly (522; 722) includes a pivotable rod (530; 730) having an adjustable length.

14. The doorstop assembly (510: 710) of Claim 13, wherein said pivotable rod (530; 730) is pivotably connected to said movement allowing means (540, 542a, 542b. 544; 746, 748a, 748b, 750).

15. The doorstop assembly (710) of Claim 14. wherein said pivotable rod (730) is pivotably connected to the movement allowing means (746, 748a, 748b, 750) and configured to adjust a length of said pivotable rod without having to disassemble said doorstop assembly: wherein said pivotable rod includes:(i) a first rod portion (732) with opposed first and second ends (732a, 732b);(ii) a second rod portion (734) with opposed first and second ends (734a, 734b); and(hi) a threaded bolt (736) that extends between and connects said first and second rod portions (732, 734). wherein said doorstop assembly further comprises a nut (738) threadably engaging said threaded bolt; wherein said threaded bolt and said nut are configured to cooperate to enable adjustment of the length of said pivotable rod to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance an associated door may be opened when said arm assembly (722) is in its active position; wherein said first end of said second rod portion includes an opening that is configured to threadably and rotatably receive a proximal end of said threaded bolt such that the distance said threaded bolt extends from said second rod portion can be varied to adjust the length of said pivotable rod;wherein a distal end of said threaded bolt is fixedly secured within said second end of said first rod portion such that said threaded bolt does not rotate relative to said first rod portion, whereby said first rod portion is configured to conjointly rotate said threaded bolt and thereby adjust the length of said pivotable rod; wherein said threaded bolt is moveable between a fixed position in relation to said second rod portion, in which said nut is in contact with said first end of said second rod portion, and an adjustable position in which said threaded bolt is free to rotate relative to said second rod potion, in which said nut is rotated to not be in contact with said first end of said second rod portion.

16. The doorstop assembly (510) of Claim 14, wherein said pivotable rod (530) includes a first end (530a) and said arm assembly (522) further includes a hollow leg (534) being configured to receive at least said first end (530a) of said pivotable rod (530) therein.

17. The doorstop assembly (510) of Claim 16, further comprising connection means (551, 552, 553) for releasably securing said first end (530a) of said pivotable rod (530) within said hollow leg (534).

18. The doorstop assembly (510) of Claim 17, wherein said connection means includes a bolt (551), an aperture (552) formed in said pivotable rod (530) and an aligned aperture (553) formed in said hollow leg (534), said aperture (552) and said aligned aperture (553) being configured to receive said bolt (551) therethrough.

19. The doorstop assembly (510) of Claim 18, further comprising an internal threading mechanism (554) within said pivotable rod (530), said internal threading mechanism (554) being configured to enable adjustment of the length of said pivotable rod (530) to accommodate doors of different dimensions and / or adjust the distance which the door (512) may be opened when said doorstop assembly (510) is in its operational position.

20. The doorstop assembly (610) of Claim 12, wherein said arm assembly (622) includes a rotating linear actuator (630) having an inner member (632) and an outer member (634) telescopically engaging the inner member (632) and having opposed first andsecond ends (634a, 634b), said first end (634a) of said outer member (634) being pivotably connected to said movement allowing means (640, 642a, 642b, 644).

21. The doorstop assembly (610) of Claim 20, wherein said arm assembly (622) further includes a first leg (636) extending from said first end (634a) of said outer member (634) of said linear actuator (630), at least part of said first leg (636) being configured to contact the door (612).

22. The doorstop assembly (410) of Claim 7, wherein said arm assembly (420) is configured to be pivotable horizontally from its inactive position to its active position.

23. The doorstop assembly (410) of Claim 22. wherein said arm assembly (420) includes an arm member having opposed first and second ends (420a, 420b), and wherein said rotation enabling means includes one component of a hinge (424a) positioned on said first arm end (420a), another cooperating component of a hinge (424b) positioned on said base member (422), and a pin (424c), both of said hinge components (424a, 424b) interdigitating to define a cylindrical space configured to receive said pin (424c) therethrough.

24. The doorstop assembly (410) of Claim 23, further comprising an actuator subassembly (430) positioned proximate said first arm end (420a) and configured to cause said arm assembly (420) to rotate away from the wall (429) between its active position and its inactive position.

25. The doorstop assembly (410) of Claim 24, further comprising: a piston subassembly (444) positioned proximate said second arm end (420b) and including a housing (446) and a piston (448) that extends from within said housing (446); and a door dock (450) having a first portion configured to be secured to the door (412) and a second portion configured to receive a portion of said piston (448) therethrough when said arm assembly (420) is in its inactive position.

26. The doorstop assembly (410: 510; 610; 710) of Claim 8, further including means for ataching said base (422; 524; 624; 724) to the wall (429; 529; 629; 729). wherein the atachment means includes a reinforcement member (462; 554; 652; 754).

27. The doorstop assembly (510; 610; 710) of Claim 6, wherein said door-contacting member (536; 636; 737) includes a protective pad (536a; 636a; 744).

28. The doorstop assembly (10; 410; 510; 610; 710) of Claim 1, further comprising a pressure switch and an alarm operably connected to said pressure switch.

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