FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention relates to a motorised drive mechanism for actuating a movable element. The present invention also relates to a movable element assembly comprising the said motorised drive mechanism. For the purposes of this document, a movable element may be considered to be any panel-like member that is configured to move between a first position and a second position and to any position there between. The movable element may be configured to translate laterally (i.e. slide) between a first position and a second position and to any position there between. Alternatively, the movable element may be configured to translate pivotally (i.e. swing) between a first position and a second position and to any position there between. The movable element may be a closure panel-like member, such as a window or a door, which can slide or swing between a closed position and an open position. The movable element may be configured to move in a substantially vertical direction or along a substantially vertical plane. Alternatively, the movable element may be configured to move in a substantially horizontal direction or along a substantially horizontal plane.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

It is well known that a movable element may be actuated by manually pushing or pulling the movable element in a given direction such that it slides between a first and second position. So as to reduce the effort required to push or pull a movable element, a sliding element may be provided which may be actuated using a motorised drive mechanism.

Typically, motorised drive mechanisms for actuating a sliding element are unduly complex and expensive to manufacture and maintain. Hence these types of drive mechanisms are only really suitable for the high-end sector of the market.

Conventional motorised drive mechanisms also include bulky component parts (e.g. motor or actuator) that are unsightly in appearance and can not be hidden or incorporated within the movable element assembly because they take up a significant amount of space.

Unfortunately, the operation of a motorised drive mechanism is somewhat restricted or limited. Due to the nature of motorised drive mechanisms, it is easy to accidentally or intentionally damage the component parts of the motorised drive mechanism. For example, by continuously activating the motor when the movable element has reached the first position or the second position, the motor may "burn out" and/or the teeth of the actuating gears may shear under the constant torque being applied to them.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention seeks to obviate or mitigate at least some of the aforesaid disadvantages and provide for an improved driving mechanism for actuating a movable element. The present invention also seeks to provide an improved movable element assembly, such as an assembly comprising a sliding window or a sliding door with a glazing assembly, which overcomes at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages. A first aspect of the invention relates to a drive mechanism suitable for actuating a movable element. The drive mechanism comprises a motorised drive means and an actuating means. The motorised drive means is configured to drive the actuating means, which in turn is configured to drive a movable element between a first position and second position, and any position there between, as required. The motorised drive means comprises motor means to drive the actuating means and control means to control the operation of the motor means. The motorised drive means may further comprise a circuit breaking means to break the circuit and thereby cut the power supply to the motor means when the motor means is being activated but the movable element is at least substantially unable to move. A second aspect of the invention relates to a method of restricting the over activation of a drive mechanism using a drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention. The method comprises the steps of:- determining if the movable element is able to move in the first

predetermined direction in which the motor means is trying to drive the movable element;

cutting the power supply to the motor means if the movable element is determined to be at least substantially unable to move in the

predetermined direction;

restoring the power supply to the motor means, if the motor means is activated via the control means to drive the movable element in a second predetermined direction.

If the movable element is a sliding closure such as a sliding window panel or sliding door then the first position may equate to a closed position and the second position may equate to a fully open position. Likewise, if the movable element is a pivoting closure such as a pivoting window panel or pivoting door then the first position may equate to a closed position and the second position may equate to a fully open position. The drive mechanism is suitable for actuating a movable element such that it is able to move (i.e. slide or swing) between a first position and a second position in any predetermined direction. The direction of translation is dependent on the type and configuration of the movable element. For example, the drive mechanism may be configured to actuate a sliding window panel such that it is able to translate laterally in a substantially vertical direction (i.e. slide substantially upwardly and downwardly) between a closed position and a fully open position. The drive mechanism may be configured to actuate a sliding window panel such that it is able to translate laterally in a substantially horizontal direction (i.e. slide

substantially side to side) between a closed position and fully open position. The drive mechanism may be configured to actuate a pivotally hinged door panel such that it is able to pivot about a substantially vertical axis between a closed position and a fully open position. Alternatively, the drive mechanism may be configured to actuate a pivotally hinged window panel such that it is able to pivot about a substantially horizontal axis between a closed position and a fully open position.

It will be understood by a skilled person in the art that the drive

mechanism may be configured to actuate one or more movable elements. The drive mechanism may comprise one or more drive means. Each drive means may be configured to drive one or more actuating means. Each actuating means may be configured to drive one or more movable elements. The motor means is preferably a rotatable motor that is configured to rotate in a first direction and/or a second direction (e.g. a clockwise or anticlockwise direction). The drive means is configured such that it may be activated by the control means to drive the actuating means such that the movable element may be driven towards the first position. The drive means is also configured such that it may be activated by the control means to drive the actuating means such that the movable element is driven towards the second position. Significantly, the motor means is preferably configured such that it is small and compact enough to be mounted within a main body of a movable element assembly. For example, the motor means may be mounted within a support frame of a movable element assembly. By configuring the motor means as such, the motor means may be concealed, access to the motor means is restricted and the problems associated with a large and accessible motor means are avoided.

Advantageously, the circuit breaking means is also preferably configured such that it is small and compact enough to be mounted within a main body of a movable element. For example, the circuit breaking means may be arranged adjacent the motor means in a support frame of a movable element assembly. The circuit breaking means will then be hidden from view and inaccessible to a user. The first position and second position are deemed to be the maximum position and minimum position of the movable element. The actuating means is configured such that it is able to drive/move the movable element between the first position and the second position but is unable to drive the movable element beyond the first position and/or the second position. Hence, once the movable element has reached the first position, the movable element is at least substantially unable to move further in the same direction until it is driven by the actuating means in the opposite direction towards the second position. Likewise, when the movable element moves towards the second position, once the movable element has reached the second position it is at least substantially unable to move further in the same direction until it is driven in the opposite direction by the actuating means towards the first position.

In a conventional motorised drive mechanism, any continued activation of the motor means to try and move the movable element towards the first position/second position when it has already reached the first

position/second position may damage component parts of the driving means and/or the actuating means (e.g. shafts, gears, couplings etc.) and may ultimately lead to the failure of the drive mechanism. Unfortunately, the problem of "over activation" or "over rotation" of the motor means is a common problem. Due to the nature of conventional control means and motor means, it is easy to, accidentally or intentionally, continuously activate the motor means to try and continuously move the movable element in the same direction.

For the purposes of this document, the term "over activation" is to be understood to mean the continued activation of the motor means to drive the movable element in a predetermined direction when the movable element can not move (for example, because it has already reached the first position/second position or its movement is being obstructed).

Likewise, the term "over rotation" is deemed to be the continued rotation of rotational motor means to drive the movable element in a predetermined direction when the movable element can not move (for example, because it has already reached the first position/second position). The drive mechanism of the present invention is optionally configured to cut the power supply to the motor means, when the motor means is being continuously activated to drive the movable element but the movable element is at least substantially unable to move. For example, the drive mechanism may be configured to cut the power supply to the motor means when the movable element is in the first position but the motor means is still being activated to try and drive the movable element towards the first position. Likewise, the drive mechanism may be configured to cut the power supply to the motor means when the movable element is in the second position but the motor means is still being activated to drive the movable element towards the second position. Furthermore, the drive mechanism may be configured to cut the power supply to the motor means when an obstruction prevents the movable element from moving in the required direction. This is achieved by providing a circuit breaking means to break the circuit, and thereby cut the power supply to the motor means as and when the motor means is being over activated.

By providing a circuit breaking means as such, "over activation" is avoided or eliminated. Hence, the problems associated with the over activation of the motor means are minimised or prevented and ultimately the risk of failure due to the over activation of the motor means is reduced or avoided. The drive mechanism of the present invention is therefore more robust and tamper-proof because it cannot be over activated and damaged in the same way as the conventional motorised drive

mechanism.

The circuit breaking means may also comprise a thermal cut-out function configured to cut the power supply to the motor means when the temperature of the motor reaches a predetermined value. In this way, the likelihood of over heating and premature failure of the motor means, which would otherwise occur from continuous and prolonged repeated actuation of the motor means, will be reduced.

In the present invention, the control means are configured to drive the motor means via the circuit breaking means. Preferably, the control means, circuit breaking means and motor means are arranged in series and coupled via electrical wiring means.

The control means are preferably manually operable such that the operation of the motor means may be controlled according to operator instructions. The control means may comprises one or more switches, dials, timers or any other suitable manual control members for controlling the operation of the motor means. In an alternative embodiment, the control means may be an electronic control means remotely located with respect to a movable element assembly.

In an embodiment of the drive mechanism according to the invention, the control means may comprise two push button switches mounted in a frame of a movable element assembly. The first switch may be configured so as to activate the motor means to drive the movable element between the first and second position towards the first position. The second switch may be configured so as to activate the motor means to drive the movable element between the first and second position towards the second position.

The control means preferably has an anti-vandal and tamper-proof configuration so as to prevent, minimise or restrict the failure of the control means due to deliberate or accidental damage. The control means may optionally or additionally have an anti-ligature configuration so as to prevent, minimise or restrict the attachment of a ligature.

The circuit breaking means may comprise a sensing member to detect, monitor or sense one or more certain characteristics or features and a circuit breaking member to cut the power supply when the sensed characteristics or features reach a predetermined condition. The

characteristic or feature monitored by the circuit breaking means is preferably indicative of the movable element being at least substantially unmovable. For example, the circuit breaking means may be a current limiting means that comprises a current sensing member that is configured to determine the current at the motor means and a circuit breaking switch that is configured to break the circuit and thereby at least substantially limit the flow of current to the motor means when the current detected at the motor means is a predetermined value. It will be known and understood that the current at the motor means will increase if, for what ever reason, it is unable to drive the actuating means and thereby move the movable element. Thus, over activation of the motor means can be avoided by using the current limiting (circuit breaking) means.

The circuit breaking means may optionally or additionally comprise at least one position sensing member to detect the position of the movable element and a circuit breaking switch to break the circuit and thereby at least substantially limit the power supply to the motor means when the movable element is at the first position, second position or is unmovable (for example, due to a blockage or a breakage of a component part).

The circuit breaking means may optionally or additionally comprise one or more switches (e.g. micro switches) to cut off the power supply when they are activated. The switches are configured such that, when the movable element abuts one or more of the switches, it is activated to cut off the power supply. Preferably, the one or more switches are activated when the movable element is arranged in the first position or the second position.

The circuit breaking means is configured to restore the power supply to the motor means if the motor means are activated, via the control means, to drive the movable element in the opposite direction. When the power supply is restored to the motor means, the motor means may drive the actuating means so as to move the movable element as required. For example, the circuit breaking means is configured to restore the power supply to the motor means if the control means is activated, to drive the movable element away from the first position towards the second position. Likewise, the circuit breaking means is configured to restore the power supply to the motor means if the control means is activated to drive the movable element away from the second position towards the first position.

The drive means preferably comprises a rotatable drive shaft coupled between the motor means and the actuating means. The rotatable drive shaft is configured to transmit the rotational drive of the motor means to the actuating means. In an exemplary embodiment of the drive

mechanism, the motor means is arranged in driving contact with a first end portion of the drive shaft and a first gear of the actuating means is arranged in driving contact with the second end portion of the drive shaft.

The actuating means is configured to drive the movable element between a first position and a second position and any position therebetween, depending on the direction and extent of rotation of the motor means. The actuating means comprises any actuating means that are suitable for driving a movable element. The actuating means are dependent on the nature of the movable element and translation of the movable element.

The actuating means preferably comprises a gear system. The actuating means may comprise a plurality of intermeshing gears.

The actuating means may comprise actuating means to laterally translate (i.e. slide) the movable element. The actuating means may be configured to laterally slide the movable element in a horizontal plane or a vertical plane. The actuating means may comprise a rack and pinion gear system to laterally translate a movable element.

The actuating means may comprise actuating means to laterally pivot (i.e. swing) the movable element. The actuating means may be configured to laterally pivot the movable element about a substantially vertical axis or a substantially horizontal axis.

In an exemplary embodiment of the drive mechanism, the actuating means may comprise a rack and pinion gear system configured to slide the movable element in a horizontal direction. In this case, the actuating means may comprise a pinion gear mounted on a second end portion of a drive shaft.

The teeth of the pinion gear are configured to mesh with the

corresponding teeth of a rack gear. The rack gear is coupled to the movable element. Accordingly, as the motor means rotates, the pinion gear is rotated via the drive shaft and the rack gear is driven in a linear motion thereby moving the movable element in a sliding action towards the first position or second position depending on the direction of rotation. The actuating means is configured such that the actuating action is restricted, inhibited or impeded when the movable element reaches a predetermined first position or second position. Any further rotation of the motor means may damage the rack and pinion system when the movable element has reached the first position/second position. However, due to the circuit breaking means, any over activation of the motor means is limited or prevent. Thus, the problems associated with over activation are avoided.

In another embodiment of the drive mechanism, the actuating means may comprise an actuating means configured to pivot the movable element about a substantially vertical axis. In this case, the actuating means may comprise a linking arm whereby a first end portion of the linking arm is arranged in driving contact with the motor means and a second end portion of the linking arm is pivotally mounted to the movable element. The second end portion of the linking arm may be pivotally mounted to the movable element by extending a fixing means (e.g. a pin or screw) through an aperture or channel. Likewise, the second end portion of the linking arm may be pivotally mounted to the movable element by means of a linear guide system having a guide rail and carriage, the second end portion of the linking arm being coupled to the carriage which is adapted to slide along the guide rail.

When the motor means is activated, the linking arm may be driven along the aperture, channel or guide rail in one direction so as to move the movable element to a first position. Likewise, the motor means may be activated via the control means to drive the linking arm along the aperture, channel or guide rail in the opposite direction so as to move the movable element to a second position. Due to the presence of the circuit breaking means, any over activation of the motor means to try and drive the movable element beyond the first position or second position is limited or prevented. Thus, the problems associated with over activation are avoided.

The drive mechanism may further comprise an over-ride control means that is configured to over-ride or disable the user's control of the drive mechanism. Having disabled the user's control, the over-ride control means may then control the operation of the motor means so as to alter the position of the movable element as required. For example, the override control means may drive the motor means so as to move the movable element away from a first position or second position to a more centrally located position.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a movable element assembly. The movable element assembly comprises a movable element, a support frame and a driving mechanism according to the first aspect of the invention.

The movable element may be mounted within the support frame such that it may be translated laterally or pivotally (i.e. slide or swing) about the support frame between a first position and a second position and any position therebetween. The drive mechanism is configured to drive the movable element between the first position and the second position and any position therebetween as required. The movable element may be a closure element such as a window panel or door, whereby the first position may equate to a fully open position and the second position may equate to a closed position. An opening aperture is formed as the movable element moves from a closed position to an open position. It will be understood that the size and shape of the opening aperture varies continuously as the movable element moves in relation to the support frame. The opening aperture is deemed to have a maximum size and shape when the movable element is in the fully open first position. The drive mechanism is suitable for actuating a movable element such that it is able to translate laterally (i.e. slide) or translate pivotally (e.g. swing) between a first position and a second position in any

predetermined direction. The direction and extent of translation is dependent on the configuration and type of the movable element. For example, if the movable element is a sliding door, then the sliding door is preferably configured to translate laterally within a door frame in a substantially horizontally direction (i.e. from side to side) between a closed position and a fully open position. If the movable element is a sliding car window panel then the sliding window panel is preferably configured to translate laterally within a window frame in a substantially vertical direction (i.e. upwardly and downwardly) between a closed position and a fully open position. Alternatively, a sliding window panel (e.g. a sliding window panel for domestic uses) may be configured to translate laterally within a window frame in a substantially horizontal direction (i.e. slide from side to side) between a closed position and a fully open position. A pivoting window panel may be configured to swing about a window frame about a vertical axis or a horizontal axis.

The assembly may comprise one or more sliding elements mounted in the support frame. Likewise, the assembly may comprise one or more drive mechanisms whereby each drive mechanism is configured to drive one or more sliding elements.

The sliding element preferably has a panel-like structure with a peripheral edge - the peripheral edge itself comprising a lower edge, upper edge and two side edges. The sliding element preferably has an inner side and an outer side.

The support frame may be configured to receive at least a part of a peripheral edge of the movable element.

If the movable element is a sliding element, preferably the sliding element is slidably mounted on a sliding track via at least one reliable member so as to aid the sliding motion of the sliding element within the support frame.

The movable element may comprise a glazing unit. The glazing unit preferably comprises at least one pane of security glass in order to prevent or minimise the breakage of or damage to the glazing unit. The movable element assembly may further comprise a fixed element securely mounted in the support frame. The movable element may be configured to move relative to the fixed element, preferably across an outer side of the fixed element. The fixed element may comprise a glazing unit. The glazing unit preferably comprises at least one pane of security glass.

The movable element assembly may further comprise a ventilation panel configured to extend across an opening aperture formed as the movable element moves to an open position. As a result, the ventilation panel will allow for ventilation (airflow) when the movable element is moved to an open position but restrict access via the opening aperture.

The movable element assembly may comprise a movable window panel, a fixed window panel, a ventilation panel, a support frame and a drive mechanism as defined according to the first aspect of the invention whereby the movable window panel is mounted to translate laterally within the support frame behind the fixed window panel and the ventilation panel, the drive mechanism is configured to drive the movable window panel between a closed position and a fully open position and any position there between and the ventilation panel is configured to extend across an opening aperture formed as the movable window panel is driven to an open position. The movable element assembly may comprise a movable window panel, a fixed window panel, a ventilation panel, a support frame and a drive mechanism as defined according to the first aspect of the invention whereby the movable window panel is mounted to translate pivotally within the support frame towards a side of the fixed window panel and behind the ventilation panel, the drive mechanism is configured to drive the movable window panel between a closed position and a fully open position and any position therebetween and the ventilation panel is configured to extend across an opening aperture formed as the movable window panel is driven to an open position.

The movable element assembly may be a security window assembly.

Throughout the description and claims of this document, the words

"comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for example

"comprising" and "comprises", means "including but not limited to", and is not intended to (and does not) exclude other moieties, components, integers or steps.

Throughout the description and claims of this document, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. Features, integers, characteristics or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. The present invention seeks to provide an electric drive mechanism for actuating an opening or moving element comprising a control means, limiting means, motor means and a gearing means whereby the control means allows the power supply to flow, initiating the electric source and via the limiting means drives the gearing means in turn moving the opening or moving element. As long as the controlling means is kept active the opening or moving element will continue to move until it reaches its maximum or minimum location, for example, when a window is in the fully open or fully closed position. Once the element is in this position, even if the controlling means is continuously kept active, the limiting means will cut out the power supply to the motor means, therefore not moving the opening or moving element any further, preventing the motor burning out or intentionally damaging the gearing means. This will be the case no matter how many times the control means are activated. To move the opening or moving element in the opposite direction the control means are activated in an opposite direction (i.e. rotated in the opposite direction, or second switch activated), again once reaching maximum location the electric drive means will 'cut-out'. Thus, the risk of damaging or breaking the electric drive mechanism or gearing means by intentionally activating the control means when the opening or moving element is already in its maximum location is minimised or avoided. The control means may optionally be secured in place on or away from the assembly of or supporting the opening or moving mechanism, depending on the environment the assembly is fitted in or the requirements of the end user.

The electric drive mechanism optionally incorporates a limiting means; the limiting means preferably comprises a current limiter circuit that limits the current flow through to the motor, 'cutting-out' the power supply if the current builds up passed a pre-determined value. For example, the control means are activated and there is something in the path preventing the opening or moving element moving, therefore the motor is unable to move, the current builds triggering the limiting means to cut the power supply. The motor controls the movement of the gearing means, preferably in the form of a rack and pinion combination, with the motor being mounted in place in a housing means, the pinion of the gearing means mounted on the motor and the rack of the gearing means forming part of the opening or moving element.

The electric drive mechanism may comprise a housing means to restrict the access to the motor and limiting means.

The motor means of the electric drive mechanism is to be small and compact, enough so that it does not greatly reduce the area of natural light that the window would normally provide. Also not need a large storage area on or near the opening or moving element to house the motor and/or electronics, all components are to be neatly concealed within the framing. The limiting means or any other part of the electric drive mechanism may comprise an override option, giving the option to disable the users' control of the electric drive mechanism. Said override option may be positioned in line with the electric driving mechanism, the opening or moving assembly it is actuating or away from the assembled product. The optional override feature can be used at any location, when the opening or moving element is in the first position, second position or anywhere in between. If the described was in use the power will be removed from the electric drive mechanism, allowing the user to activate the control means limitless times without actuating the opening or moving element.

The invention also seeks to provide an opening or moving element assembly, for example a sliding window, a support frame and an electric drive mechanism as defined in the first aspect of the invention whereby the opening or moving element is mounted in or on a support frame and the electric drive mechanism is configured to drive the moving element such that it can translate laterally with the support frame between a first position and a second position, and any position there between, as the control means are activated.

The control means of the electric drive mechanism is preferably configured to be visible and accessible via a first side of the assembly. For example, the control means is preferably configured to be visible and accessible via an inner side of the assembly.

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how it may be carried into effect reference shall now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 depicts a front view of the inner side of an embodiment of a security window assembly incorporating an embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and Figure 2 depicts a rear view of the outer side of an embodiment of a security window assembly incorporating an embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and

Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of the rear side of a first embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and

Figure 4 depicts a transparent perspective view of the rear side of a first embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and

Figure 5 depicts a transparent perspective view of the inner side of a first embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and

Figure 6 depicts a sectional view of the electric drive mechanism assembly of Figure 1 ; and

Figure 7 depicts a perspective view of an actuating means of a second embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention; and

Figure 8 depicts a schematic view of an actuating means of a second embodiment of an electric drive mechanism according to a first aspect of the invention. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood that the drawings and detailed description thereof are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Further, although the invention will be described in terms of specific embodiments, it will be understood that various elements of the specific embodiments of the invention will be applicable to all embodiments disclosed herein. In the drawings, the same features are denoted by the same reference signs throughout.

Referring generally to the figures, embodiments of a movable element assembly according to the invention are shown. The movable element assembly in a general form comprises a movable element, a support frame and a drive mechanism suitable for actuating the movable element.

The figures will first be described in general terms. If the opening or moving element (2) is a sliding closure such as a sliding window panel or sliding door then the first position may equate to a closed position and the second position may equate to a fully open position.

It will be understood by a skilled person in the art that the electric drive mechanism (1 ) may be configured to actuate one or more opening or moving elements (2). The electric drive mechanism (1 ) may comprise one or more control means (3). Each control means (3) may be configured to drive one or more motor means (5). Each motor means (5) may be configured to drive one or more opening or moving elements (2).

The motor means (5) is adapted to translate loads of varying weight, including heavy loads up to 30 stones (-191 Kg) in weight.

The control means (3) are configured to drive the motor means (5) as they are activated, which is then configured to drive the gearing means (6).

In the embodiment of the electric drive mechanism (1 ) depicted in Figure 4 the control means (3) may be configured to drive the motor means (5) via a limiting means (4) coupled via wiring means (7). The control means (3) may be arranged in direct contact with a first portion of the wiring means (7a) and the limiting means (4) may be arranged in direct contact with a second portion of the wiring means (7b). The limiting means (4) may be arranged in direct contact with a first position of the wiring means (7a') and the motor means (5) may be arranged in direct contact with a second portion of the wiring means (7b').

The motor means (5) may incorporate a driving shaft (8), the motor means (5) may be coupled to the first portion of the driving shaft (8a) and the first gear (6a) of the gearing means (6) coupled to the second portion of the driving shaft (8b).

Accordingly, the limiting means (4), motor means (5), and subsequently the first gear (6a) of the gearing means (6) are activated as the control means (3) are activated. In the embodiment of the electric drive mechanism (1 ) depicted in Figure 4 the power supply (9) may be configured to the limiting means (4). The limiting means (4) may be in direct contact with a first portion of the wiring means (7a") and the power supply (9) may be in contact with a second portion of the wiring means (7b").

The control means (3) may be a manually activated component (i.e.

switch/dial) or a remotely activated component (i.e. thermostat/timer) requiring remote control means in accordance with operator instructions.

The control means (3) preferably comprises an anti-vandal and tamperproof configuration so as to prevent, minimise or restrict any failure of the control means (3) caused by accidental or intentional damage to the control means (3). The control means (3) may optionally or additionally comprise an anti-ligature configuration so as to prevent, minimise or restrict the attachment of a ligature. Figures 1 & 5 depict manually operable anti-vandal, tamperproof and anti-ligature control means (3a and 3b). To open/close the opening or moving element (2) the motor means (5) are configured to drive a gearing means (6), which then in turn drives the opening or moving element (2) as the control means (3) are activated. The gearing means (6) comprise any combination suitable for driving an opening or moving element (2) from one position to another or anywhere in between as the control means (3) are activated.

Once the opening or moving element (2) is in its maximum position (i.e. a sliding window fully open/closed) or something is in the path of the opening or moving element (2) which would prevent its movement, the limiting means (4) are configured so the power supply (9) to the electric drive mechanism (1 ) is 'cut-off' so the motor means (5), gearing means (6) and opening or moving element (2) don't move in any way. The limiting means (4) comprise a set up so that as the control means (3) are activated, the current passing through the motor means (5) is monitored, via this monitoring it is able to tell when the motor means (5) is unable to actuate the first gear (6a) of the gearing means (6) (the current increase) due to the opening or moving element (2) being unable to move (in its maximum position/something in the track) 'cutting' the power supply (9) to the motor means (5), leaving the first gear (6a) of the gearing means (6) stationary.

Alternatively the limiting means (4) may comprise a set up so that a micro switch is used to 'cut-off' the power (9) to the motor means (5) once the opening or moving element (2) reaches its maximum position (i.e. fully open/closed), the power (9) will remain removed until the control means (3) are activated to actuate the opening or moving element (2) in the opposite direction to that previously travelling.

The gearing means (6) may comprise a plurality of intermeshing gears. For example, in the embodiment depicted in Figure 6 the gearing means (6) comprises a first gear (6a), and a second gear (6b). The gears (6) are configured to intermesh such that when the opening or moving element (2) is free to move (i.e. not at its fully open/closed position) the first gear (6a) (the "driving gear") rotates in a path dictated by the driving shaft which is coupled to the motor means (5), directly driving the second gear (6b) (the "driven gear") in a linear direction.

The electric drive mechanism (1 ) depicted in Figure 5 may be configured to drive a sliding element (2) to a first position (e.g. a closed position) by activating the left hand side pushbutton switch (3a) of the control means (3) by pushing it in until power is 'cut off', and a second position (e.g. a fully open position) by activating the right hand side pushbutton switch (3b) of the control means by pushing it in until power is 'cut off'. Alternatively, the electric drive mechanism (1 ) may be configured to drive a sliding element (2) to a first position (e.g. a closed position) by a remotely operated thermal control identifying a drop in temperature below a predefined temperature and a second position (e.g. a fully open position) by a remotely operated thermal control identifying an increase in temperature above a pre-defined temperature.

Figures 7 and 8 depict the gearing means (6') of a second embodiment of an electric drive mechanism (1 '). In this particular embodiment the gearing means (6') comprises a linking arm (6a') which runs along a guide track (6b'). The motor means (5') are mounted in place and coupled to the limiting means (4') and control means (3') as previously described in the first embodiment according to the first aspect of the invention. Activation of the motor means (5') drives the linking arm (6a'). A first end of the linking arm (6a') is coupled to the driving shaft (8'), which as previously described is coupled to the motor means (5'), ensuring the linking arm (6a') follows the same path as that taken by the motor means (5'). The second end of the linking arm (6a') is mounted on a guide means or track (6b'), with the guide means or track (6b') attached to the opening or moving element (2'). As the control means (3') are activated, driving the motor means (5'), rotating the linking arm (6a'), the linking arm (6a') is driven to move along the guide means (6b') or track, the opening or moving element (2') is opened/closed. If the opening or moving element (2') is already at a fully open/closed position and the control means (3') are continuously activated to move the opening or moving element (2') in the same direction, the limiting means (4') will 'cut' the power (9') to the motor means (5') due to the current increase, leaving the gearing means (6') and opening or moving element (2') stationary. For example, the opening element (2') is a side hung window, the electric drive mechanism (1 ') is fitted 'nicely' and discreetly into the framing of the window, the control means (3') are activated, opening the window (2') via the motor means (5'), linking arm (6a') and track (6b') from a first position (i.e. fully open) to a second position (i.e. fully closed). The window (2') is in the second position, fully closed, and the user continues to activate the control means (3') with the intention of creating damage to the motor means (5'), gearing means (6') or window (2'). The window (2'), linking arm (6a') and motor means (5') remain stationary. On activating the control means (3) to move the window (2') in the opposite direction the motor means (5') and linking arm (6a') will rotate, closing the window (2').

The gearing means (6') may be coupled to an opening or moving element (2') using fixing means (e.g. screws). In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the gearing means (6') is coupled to the opening or moving element (2') with screws. In an alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown), the gearing means (6') is coupled to the opening or moving element (2') by means of linear guide system comprising a guide rail and a carriage which is adapted to slide along the guide rail.

The electric drive mechanism (1 ) has been configured so as to drive the opening or moving element (2) in multiple directions and ensuring the gearing means (6) can not be continuously turned after the opening or moving element (2) has reached its first and second position (maximum limits). Moreover, the electric dive mechanism (1 ) is more robust and tamper-proof because the motor means (6) used are more than capable of lifting/moving elements described previously and at the same time far superior on the aesthetics side than the prior art electric drive

mechanisms. The electric drive mechanism (1 ) according to the first aspect of the invention may optionally comprise a housing means (10), comprising two upright portions (10a), a top portion and a bottom portion (10b). The two upright portions having inner surfaces (10alN) and outer surfaces

(10aOUT). The housing means (10) preferably has an elongated framelike structure. The housing means (10) are configured to support component parts of the electric drive mechanism (1 ). The body portions of the housing means (10) are deemed to support component parts when it receives and/or defines the arrangement/mounting of certain component parts of the electric drive mechanism (1 ). For example, in the embodiment depicted in Figure 6, the housing means (10) is configured to support the motor means (5) via a plurality of fixing means (1 1 ). It can be seen in Figure 6 that the first gear (6a) of the gearing means (6) is coupled to the second end portion of the driving shaft (8b), and that that outer surface

(10aOUT) of the upright portion is configured to allow the motor means (5) to be mounted/arranged with respect to the housing means (10) such that the longitude axis of the driven gear (6b) of the gearing means is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body portion.

Although the arrangement has been described as an opening or moving element (2), it is clear that it is equally suitable for use in other openings, as well as horizontal sliding windows, vertical sliding windows, tog hung windows, side hung windows, centrally hung windows, both in and out opening.

The limiting means (4) or any other part of the electric drive mechanism (1 ) may further comprise an override option, giving the option to disable the users' control of the electric drive mechanism (1 ). Said override option may be positioned in line with the electric driving mechanism (1 ), the opening or moving assembly it is actuating or away from the assembled product. The optional override feature can be used at any location, when the opening or moving element (2) is in the first position, second position or anywhere in between. In operation, the override option will remove the power from the electric drive mechanism (1 ), allowing the user to activate the control means limitless times without actuating the opening or moving element (2).

A more specific description of the particular embodiments shown in figures 1 to 6 will now be described. Figures 1 to 5 show a security window assembly incorporating an electric drive mechanism (1 ), the drive mechanism being shown in more detail in Figure 6.

Figures 4 to 6 depict a specific embodiment with a drive mechanism (1 ) configured to drive a movable window panel (2) within a support frame. In this particular case, the drive mechanism (1 ) is configured to drive the window panel (2) in a sliding action within the support frame. The drive mechanism (1 ) is configured to drive the window panel between a fully open position and a closed position and any position there between as required.

The drive mechanism (1 ) comprises a motorised drive means and an actuating means. The motorised drive means comprises a motor means (5) configured to drive the actuating means via a drive shaft (8), a control means (3) configured to allow a user to control the operation of the motor means (5) and a circuit breaking means or limiting means (4) configured to break the circuit when the motor means (5) is over activated.

The motor means (5) is small and compact enough so that it does not greatly reduce the area of natural light that the window panel (2) would normally provide. This means that a large storage area on or near the window panel (2) is not required in order to house the motor means and/or electronics and all components may be neatly concealed within the support frame.

The control means (3) are configured to drive the motor means (5) via the circuit breaking means (4). The control means, circuit breaking means (4) and motor means (5) are electrically coupled via electrical wiring (7). The motor means (5) and circuit breaking means (4) are advantageously mounted within a rebate of the support frame such that they are hidden from view. As a result, the drive mechanism (1 ) is tamper-proof and does not suffer from the unsightly appearance problems of conventional drive mechanisms (1 ).

The actuating means comprises a pinion gear (6a) and a rack gear (6b). The pinion gear (6a) is configured to be driven by the motor means (5). The pinion gear is arranged in driving contact with the rack gear (6b) which is, in turn, coupled to the movable window panel (2). The actuating means is configured such that, as the motor (5) rotates in a first direction, the pinion gear (6a) drives the rack gear (6b) such that the movable window panel (2) moves towards a fully open position. As the motor (5) rotates in a second direction, the pinion gear (6a) drives the rack gear (6b) such that the movable window panel (2) moves towards the closed position.

The circuit breaker means (4) comprises current limiting means to detect the current in the motor means (5). When the current limiting means (5) detects a current of a predetermined value (that is indicative of power continuing to be supplied to the motor means (5) but the motor means (5) being unable to drive the actuating means because, for example, the window panel (2) has reached the fully open position or closed position or there is something in the path of the window panel (2) obstructing its movement) the power supply to the motor means (5) is broken such that over activation of the motor means (5) is impeded or prevented. The circuit breaker means (4) restores the power supply to the motor means (5) when the control means (3) are activated to drive the window panel (2) in an opposite direction. If, however, a user activates the control means (3) to translate the window panel (2) in the same direction, as the motor is unable to move, the current passing through the motor will build up to the predetermined value and the circuit breaker means (4) will cut-off the power supply to the motor means (5).

The circuit breaking means further comprises a thermal cut-out function configured to cut the power supply to the motor means when the

temperature of the motor reaches a predetermined value. If a user continuously and repeatedly actuates of the control means to translate the window panel (2), the temperature of the motor means (5) will increase and the motor means will start to overheat. Once the temperature of the motor means (5) has reached a predetermined value, the thermal cut-out function will be activated and the power supply to the motor means (5) will be cut. The circuit breaker means (4) restores the power supply to the motor means (5) only after the lapse of a predetermined period of time following activation thermal cut-out function. This allows the motor means (5) to cool down to a reasonable working temperature. In embodiments of the invention, following activation of the thermal cut-out function, power supply to the motor means (5) is restored after

approximately 10 minutes. The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. It will be appreciated that modifications may be made to the invention as described and claimed below without departing from the scope of the invention.