Hard security tag and detaching device

A method and apparatus for a hard security tag and detaching device are described. The hard security tag may include a sensor to emit a detectable signal when it is in a monitored surveillance zone. The hard security tag may be attached to an item, such as an article of clothing. The detaching device may detach the hard security tag from the item.

BACKGROUND

An Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) system is designed to prevent unauthorized removal of an item from a controlled area. A typical EAS system may comprise a monitoring system and one or more security tags. The monitoring system may create a surveillance zone at an access point for the controlled area. A security tag may be fastened to the monitored item, such as an article of clothing. If the monitored item enters the surveillance zone, an alarm may be triggered indicating unauthorized removal of the monitored item from the controlled area. Security tags are typically attached to the article of clothing using a metal tack with a large head.

The security tag may be designed for reuse. For example, a security tag may be removed from the monitored item at the point of sale in a manner that does not substantially harm the integrity of the security tag, either externally or internally. Conventional reusable security tags, however, may be relatively expensive since they are made to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of continuous attaching and detaching from monitored items. Consequently, there may be a need for improved security tags to solve these and other problems.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments may be directed to a security system. The security system may be, for example, an EAS system. The EAS system may comprise a security tag, a detaching device and monitoring system. In general operation, the security tag may include a sensor to emit a detectable signal when it is in the monitored surveillance zone. The security tag may be attached to an item, such as an article of clothing. The detaching device may detach the security tag from the item. The monitoring system may monitor a controlled area for the signal to ensure that the item with the security tag is not removed from the controlled area.

In one embodiment the security tag may be, for example, a hard security tag designed for single use. The detaching device may detach the security tag from the item in a manner that damages the tag and prevents its reuse. Since the security tag is designed for a single use, the cost of the security tag may be substantially reduced relative to conventional reusable hard security tags. Consequently, the manufacturer, retailer and consumer may benefit from the reduced costs.

For example, in one embodiment the security tag may have a security tag with a clamp disposed within the housing. The clamp may be flexible. During the attachment operation, a tack body may be inserted through the article of clothing and into a hole in the security tag, and further into the retaining aperture of the clamp. The tack body may be retained in the security tag by the clamp. During the detachment operation, the detachment device may have one or more driver rods that penetrate the outer wall of the tag body in order to access and apply pressure to the clamp thereby releasing the tack body. Once the tack body has been released from the clamp, the tack body may be removed from the security tag to detach the security tag from the item. When the driver rods are withdrawn, the outer wall may be permanently deformed. For example, the outer wall may have one or more holes or apertures. The deformed outer wall may provide a visual indication that the security tag has been used. The deformed outer wall and clamp may prevent the reuse of the security tag, although the various undamaged components may be retrieved and reused as desired.

In one embodiment, the term “penetrate” and its variations may refer to breaching a solid surface, such as a wall of the security tag. It is worthy to note that the term “penetration” may not necessarily mean that the penetrating object completely pierces through the solid surface, but may also include instances where the surface stretches or bends to accommodate the movement of the penetrating object. For example, the penetrating object may stretch the solid surface far enough to press against the clamp, with further movement causing it to bend, without the penetrating object actually touching the clamp. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment the security tag may be, for example, a hard security tag designed for reuse. The detaching device may detach the security tag from the item in a manner that does not permanently damage the security tag or its components. Since the security tag is designed to be reused, the retailer and consumer may benefit from the repeated use of the security tag and the reduced replacement costs.

For example, in one embodiment the security tag may have a clamp disposed within the housing. During the attachment operation, a tack body may be inserted through the article of clothing and into a hole in the security tag, and further into the retaining aperture of the clamp. The tack body may be retained in the security tag by the clamp. During the detachment operation, the detachment device may have one or more driver rods. The driver rods may penetrate the outer wall to access the clamp, or alternatively, may correspond to a pair of apertures in the security tag. The apertures may be formed prior to first use of the security tag, or formed during a previous detachment operation as described previously. The driver rods may bend, but not necessarily deform, the clamp thereby releasing the tack body. Alternatively, the rods may apply a force onto the clamp which breaks the clamp. Once the tack body has been released from the clamp, the tack body may be removed from the security tag to detach the security tag from the item. The detached security tag may now be ready for reuse with another item.

Numerous specific details may be set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments. It can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

Referring now in detail to the drawings wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, there is illustrated inFIG. 1a security tag and tack assembly in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 1may illustrate a security tag100and a tack assembly102.

In one embodiment, tack assembly102may comprise an enlarged tack head104and an elongated tack body106. Tack body106may also have slots or grooves108and a pointed forward end112. Tack head104may have a diameter of approximately 0.5 inches, and a thickness of approximately 0.05 inches. Tack head104is typically made of plastic or steel, for example. Tack body106may be similar to a small pointed nail. Tack body106may be 0.75 inches long, and 0.046 inches in diameter. Tack body106is typically made of steel, for example. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, tack body106may be made from steel, such as an American Standard (AS)1050or1075. The presence of steel in or around certain detectable sensors can reduce the detectable range of the sensor, so care should be taken when selecting tack head and tack body materials. For example, one embodiment may use a sensor such as the EAS Ultra-Max® narrow label sensor made by Sensormatic® Electronics Corporation (“UltraMax Sensor”). If tack assembly102used with the Ultramax Sensor has residual magnetism, the sensor detectability may be reduced. Residual magnetism can occur, for example, if tack assembly102is made of hardened steel and has been exposed to strong magnets. This may occur during automatic attachment of tack assembly102with security tag100. “Soft” steel typically does not go through a hardening process, and therefore will retain insignificant amounts of residual magnetism. Consequently, one embodiment utilizes soft steel for tack assembly102for use with the Ultramax Sensor. Tack assembly102may also be made using a plastic material for tack head104to reduce the overall amount of steel in tack assembly102. The embodiments, however, are not limited to a particular sensor or material for tack assembly102, as long as they are designed to operate compatibly with one another.

In one embodiment, tack assembly102may be used to attach security tag100to an item. The item may be for example, an article of clothing. Pointed forward end112may be inserted through the article of clothing and into security tag100. The attachment operation may be discussed in more detail below.

In one embodiment, tack assembly102may also include additional features, such as a lanyard or security strap attached to tack head104. The lanyard or security strap may allow security tag100to be used with items where penetration of the item is not desired or possible. For example, packaged items such as sports equipment, electronics and any other product may be secured with the lanyard through a stable portion of the packaging or product itself. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, security tag100may be smaller in size than many conventional security tags. For example, security tag100may be 2.6 inches long, 0.8 inches wide, and 0.25 inches thick. With tack assembly102inserted into security tag100, the thickness may increase to 0.67 inches. The total weight may be approximately 6 grams. The embodiments are not limited to these metrics.

In one embodiment, security tag100may comprise an upper housing114and a lower housing116. Upper housing114and lower housing116may be joined at seam118to form the closed security tag100. In one embodiment, housings114and116may be made of a semi-hard or rigid material. A usable rigid or semi-hard material might be a hard plastic, e.g., an injection molded ABS plastic, or a plastic such as polypropylene. If a plastic is used, the mating of housings114and116may be accomplished using an ultrasonic weld, snap fitting, or any suitable joining mechanism for a given implementation.

In one embodiment, security tag100may comprise a first end130and a second end132. First end130and second end132may be partially hollow, with each having a compartment. First end130may have a first compartment to hold a clamp to retain tack body106. First end130may also be referred to herein as an “attachment end.” Second end132may have a second compartment to hold a sensor to emit a signal detectable by the monitoring system. Second end132may also be referred to herein as a “detection end.”

In one embodiment, first end130may comprise a tag head126. Tag head126may further comprise an upper housing aperture120and a concentric rampart122. In one embodiment, first end130may be approximately 0.9 inches long and 0.825 inches wide. The shape may be similar to a half circle with a diameter of approximately 0.825 inches.

In one embodiment, first end130may also comprise a protrusion124having an outer wall134. Protrusion124may comprise any desired shape, as long as the desired shape appropriately interfaces with the detaching device. In one embodiment, for example, protrusion124may have a cylindrical shape, as shown inFIG. 1. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, second end132may be approximately 1.8 inches long, 0.62 inches wide and 0.22 inches thick. The shape may be similar to a rectangle. The shape and dimensions of second end132may allow second end132to act as a lever in the hand-operated version of the detaching device described herein.

As shown inFIG. 1, first end130and second end132may be positioned in line with each other, having an offset414at their intersection. In one embodiment, offset414may be an equal offset on both sides of security tag100. In another embodiment, offset414may be on only one side of security tag100. The location of offset414, and the amount of offset414, may vary in accordance with the particular detaching device, as discussed further below.

Although a particular external configuration is shown for security tag100, it can be appreciated that any number of external configurations may be used for a given implementation. The external configuration for a particular implementation, however, should be made in accordance with the design and configuration of the corresponding detaching device used to detach security tag100from a monitored item. In one embodiment, for example, the external configuration shown for security tag100in general, and first end130in particular, have been designed to interface with the embodiments of the detaching device as described herein.

In one embodiment, upper housing aperture120of first end130may be used to receive tack body106during the attachment operation. The diameter of upper housing aperture120may be a little larger than the diameter of tack body106to accommodate tack body106during the attachment operation.

In one embodiment, concentric rampart122may be a rampart defining a space to receive tack head104. The diameter of concentric rampart122may be a little larger than the diameter of tack head104to ensure tack head104may be properly seated during the attachment operation. In one embodiment, for example, the internal diameter of concentric rampart122may be approximately 0.66 inches. One purpose for concentric rampart122is to better secure the article between tack head104and security tag100. This may better defend against attempts to pry tack assembly102away from security tag100. Another purpose for concentric rampart122may reduce or prevent removal of security tag100from the detaching device during the detachment operation. Further, concentric rampart122may keep the article of clothing above the top surface of the detaching device, thereby reducing the possibility of snagging or tearing the article during the detachment operation.

FIG. 2illustrates a security tag, a tack assembly and an article in an unfastened position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 2may illustrate the beginning of the operations to attach security tag100to an item, such as an article of clothing. During the attachment operation, pointed forward end112of tack body106may be inserted through an article202. The size of tack head104ensures that article202may not be removed from tack assembly102without damaging article202.

FIG. 3illustrates a security tag, a tack assembly and an article in a fastened position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 3may illustrate the end of the operations to attach security tag100to an item, such as article202. Once pointed forward end112of tack body106is inserted through article202, pointed forward end112may be inserted into upper housing aperture120. Force may be applied to tack head104until tack head104is seated in concentric rampart122. Tack assembly102may remain attached to security tag100by a clamp. The clamp will be discussed in more detail below. Once seated, tack assembly102and security tag100may be securely attached to article202. Detachment of security tag100from article202may require the use of a detaching device, as described further below.

FIG. 4illustrates a first perspective view of a disassembled security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 4illustrates a first perspective view for a disassembled security tag100. The first perspective view illustrates in particular the exterior of upper housing114, and the interior of lower housing116.

In one embodiment, security tag100may include a sensor402. Sensor402may comprise any sensor capable of generating a detectable signal, such as a magnetic sensor, an acoustic magnetic sensor, a Radio-Frequency (RF) sensor, or other type of sensor. In one embodiment, for example, sensor402may comprise the UltraMax Sensor. The signal may be detected by an EAS monitoring system. The EAS monitoring system may include, for example, a transmitter/receiver (“transceiver”) to detect the signals, and inform a monitoring system of the presence or absence of security tag100in the surveillance zone.

In one embodiment, lower housing116may have a sensor compartment404. Sensor compartment404may be representative of, for example, the second compartment discussed with reference toFIG. 1. Sensor compartment404may comprise a plurality of walls416to define an area large enough for a given sensor. In one embodiment, for example, sensor404may be an UltraMax Sensor having the dimensions of 1.73 inches long, 0.46 inches wide and 0.085 inches thick. Other lengths and sizes can accommodate other detection technologies. Walls416may correspond to similar walls for upper housing114.

In one embodiment, lower housing116may also have a clamp pocket410. Clamp pocket410may be representative of, for example, the first compartment discussed with reference toFIG. 1. Clamp pocket410may comprise a plurality of walls418to define an area large enough for a given clamp. For example, clamp pocket410may be designed to receive and loosely constrain clamp406. Pocket410may also be defined by a plurality of posts or other means that defines an area that receives clamp406. When tack assembly102is inserted through upper housing aperture120along line412, tack body106may be inserted through clamp406and into a lower cover aperture. Clamp406may retain tack body106during the attachment operation.

Once housings114and116are joined at seam118, the first and second compartments may be closed and sealed. Sensor402may be securely contained, although not deformed, within sensor compartment404. Clamp406may be securely contained within clamp pocket410.

FIG. 5illustrates a second perspective view of a disassembled security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 5illustrates a second perspective view for a disassembled security tag100. The second perspective view illustrates in particular the interior of upper housing114, and the exterior of lower housing116.

In one embodiment, upper housing114may include an abutment502. Abutment502may be positioned above clamp406to hold clamp406in place when joined with lower housing116. In other words, abutment502may function as a bearing surface pushing against clamp406and holding it in place. The position of abutment502may also provide resistance against clamp406during the detachment operation. In other words, abutment502may function as a bearing surface when pulling tack assembly102from the top. This may be discussed in further detail with reference toFIG. 11.

In one embodiment, lower housing116may include a surface508. Protrusion124may be integrally formed with surface508. The diameter of protrusion124may be smaller than the size of tag head126. In one embodiment, the diameter of protrusion124is approximately 0.55 inches, and may protrude 0.45 inches. The smaller diameter may create a shoulder area504. Shoulder area504may be relatively flat, and may be used to assist seating first end130into the detaching device during the detachment operation.

In one embodiment, the detachment operation may detach tack assembly102from clamp406. Once tack assembly102is released from clamp406, tack assembly102may be removed from security tag100. Once tack assembly102has been removed from security tag100, article202may be removed from tack body106, thus completing the detachment operation. The detachment operation may be described in greater detail with reference toFIGS. 6–7and18–31.

FIG. 6illustrates a security tag inserted into a detaching device in a first position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 6illustrates security tag100with tack assembly102inserted into a detaching device602.

Detaching device602may be implemented in a number of ways. In one embodiment, for example, detaching device602may be mounted on a surface such as a desk or counter top. As shown inFIG. 6, detaching device602may also be mounted into the desk or counter top, such that the top surface of detaching device602is flush with the desk or counter top. A bezel610may be used to cover detaching device602to provide a desired finish. This configuration may be desirable, for example, to conserve space on the desk or counter top, and to provide stability for detaching device602during the detachment operation. In this embodiment, detaching device602may be approximately 6 inches long, 3 inches deep and 2 inches thick, for example. The monitored article (not shown) may lie on top of the counter during the detachment operation.

As shown inFIG. 6, first end130of security tag100may be inserted into detaching device602such that second end132is perpendicular to the edge of the detaching device along line604. This may be referred to herein as a first position. Line604may be a reference line of zero (0) degrees. To detach tack assembly102from security tag100, force may be applied to second end132in direction606to a second position. The force may be delivered by, for example, a person grabbing second end132and rotating second end132into the second position.

FIG. 7illustrates a security tag inserted into a detaching device in a second position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 7illustrates security tag100inserted into detaching device602and moved to a second position. The force applied to second end132may continue until second end132reaches the second position, which may or may not make contact with edge608of detaching device602. Second end132should be along line702in the second position, or approximately 45 degrees from the first position.

In one embodiment, offset414as discussed with reference toFIG. 1may allow a greater degree of movement between the first position and the second position for second end132. The size of offset414may vary in accordance with a number of factors, such as the degree of movement required for a particular implementation, the size and shape of security tag100, the material used for protrusion124, the length of the driver rods and other implementation details of detaching device602, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the movement of second end132from the first position to the second position releases tack body106of tack assembly102from clamp406. The movement causes one or more driver rods to move towards outer wall134of protrusion124. In one embodiment, the driver rods may penetrate outer wall134to access clamp406. The driver rods proceed to contact clamp406, and further movement bends clamp406against abutment502. The bending of clamp406releases tack body106from a clamp aperture within clamp406, as discussed in more detail with reference toFIG. 12.

Once tack body106is released from clamp406, second end132may be moved from the second position back to the first position. This movement withdraws the driver rods from outer wall134of protrusion124. Security tag100may then be removed from detaching device602. After the detachment operation, protrusion124may have one or more holes or apertures through outer wall134.

In one embodiment of the invention, the detachment operation may be performed using at least one driver rod and a driver rod activator. The term “driver rod activator” as used herein may refer to any structure that moves the driver rods, or assists in the movement of the driver rods, in response to a force. The force may be a manual force, automatic force, or a combination of manual and automatic force. The force moves the driver rods through outer wall134to bend clamp406.

In one embodiment, the driver rod activator may be a structure that moves the driver rods in response to manual force. For example, a person may use second end132as a lever to move second end132between the first and second positions. The movement may cause another structure to move, such as a rotor, which in turn moves the driver rods. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, the driver rod activator may be a structure that moves the driver rods in response to an automatic force, such as from a motor, spring, coil, and so forth. For example, a person may insert first end130into detaching device602, and a motor may cause the driver rods to penetrate first end130and release tack body106. In this example, second end132may not necessarily move from the first position to the second position during the detachment operation. Alternatively, the motor may cause another structure such as a rotor to rotate and thereby move the driver rods.

In one embodiment, the driver rod activator may be a structure that moves the driver rods in response to a combination of manual and automated techniques. For example, the movement from the first position to the second position may be performed manually, while the movement from the second position to the first position may be performed automatically through the use of a motor, spring, coil or like mechanism. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, detaching device602may be implemented as a hand-held device. The hand-held version may comprise a pair of handles with driver rods attached at one or both ends. A user may squeeze the handles to move the driver rods a sufficient distance into security tag100to bend clamp406. The hand-held version may also be automated by using a motor to drive the driver rods into security tag100to bend clamp406. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

The detachment operation in general, and detachment device602in particular, may be discussed in more detail with reference toFIGS. 13–32.

FIG. 8illustrates a security tag with a hinge in accordance with one embodiment. As discussed previously with reference toFIGS. 4 and 5, upper housing114and lower housing116may be molded as separate elements, and welded together to form a closed security tag100.FIG. 8illustrates an alternative embodiment wherein upper housing114and lower housing116are molded as an integral unit joined by a hinge802. Upper housing114and lower housing116may be folded together using hinge802and melded together using the previous described techniques. This embodiment may provide some assembling and cost efficiencies in producing security tag100, for example.

FIG. 9illustrates an interior view of a lower housing for a security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 9illustrates an interior view of lower housing116in greater detail. As shown inFIG. 9, lower housing116includes clamp pocket410defined by walls418. Clamp pocket410may further include clamp supports902. Clamp supports902may support clamp406when inserted into clamp pocket410. This may be useful to provide resistance for clamp406when, for example, tack body106is inserted through clamp406during the attachment operation. In one embodiment, clamp supports902may be located at the corners of clamp pocket410, as shown inFIG. 9. It may be appreciated, however, that clamp supports902may be positioned anywhere within clamp pocket410and still fall within the scope of the embodiments.

In one embodiment, clamp pocket410may also include a lower housing aperture904. Lower housing aperture904may be an upstanding cavity or collar extending from an inner surface906of lower housing116. When tack body106is fully inserted, lower housing aperture904may receive pointed forward end112of tack body106. In one embodiment, lower housing aperture904may not necessarily continue through the bottom of protrusion124. In another embodiment, however, lower housing aperture904may continue through the bottom of protrusion124. This may be useful when using a modified tack assembly having a lanyard, as discussed previously, for example.

FIG. 10illustrates an interior view of a lower housing for a security tag with an inserted clamp in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 10illustrates an interior view of lower housing116and inserted clamp406in greater detail. As shown inFIG. 10, clamp406may comprise a clamp aperture1002. When clamp406is inserted into clamp pocket410, clamp aperture1002should be aligned with lower housing aperture904. The alignment should be approximately one-quarter the diameter of tack body106to ensure that pointed forward end112properly seats within clamp aperture1002and lower housing aperture904.

In one embodiment, clamp pocket410may also have a pair of access walls1004and1006. Access walls1004and1006may comprise part of, for example, outer wall134of protrusion124. More particularly, access walls1004and1006may comprise access points for corresponding driver rods to penetrate outer wall134in order to access clamp406.

In one embodiment, the thickness of access walls1004and1006may vary in accordance with a number of factors, such as the type of material used for the access walls, the shape of the driver rods penetrating the access walls, the amount of force desired to penetrate the access walls, and so forth. For example, access walls1004and1006may be made of plastic having a thickness that may be penetrated by approximately 5 to 15 pounds of force received from the driver rods, or approximately 0.010 to 0.024 inches, respectively. More particularly, the thickness may be sufficient to allow a driver rod(s) delivering approximately 7 pounds of force to penetrate access walls1004and1006, or approximately 0.012 inches. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, the thickness of access walls1004and1006may vary from the thickness of the rest of security tag100. For example, the thickness of access walls1004and1006may be less than the thickness of the rest of security tag100to reduce the amount of force needed to penetrate access walls1004and1006. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

FIG. 11illustrates an interior view of an upper housing for a security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 11illustrates an interior view of upper housing114in greater detail. As shown inFIG. 11, abutment502is formed on upper housing inner surface1104. In one embodiment, abutment502may comprise a flat bottom “V” shaped protrusion. More particularly, abutment502may comprise a flat bottom1106and angled walls1108A and1108B.

In one embodiment, the shape of abutment502may assist the detaching device in detaching clamp406from tack body106during the detachment operation. More particularly, the width of the flat bottom should be compatible with clamp406such that clamp406is bent properly to release tack body106. Although a particular shape is shown for abutment502, it may be appreciated that any shape may be suitable for a given implementation, as desired. For example, the shape of abutment502may be a post with the appropriate abutment aperture, or a curved structure without a flat bottom. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In addition to assisting the detachment operation, the shape of abutment502may also provide a security feature for security tag100. The flat bottom “V” shape of abutment502may limit the bend of clamp406. This may reduce the possibility of someone successfully piercing one side of protrusion124with a foreign object in an attempt to push on clamp406to release tack body106. In one embodiment, both sides of clamp406need to be bent a predetermined amount to release tack body106.

In one embodiment, flat bottom1106and angled walls1108A and1108B may provide the above described advantages by assisting the detaching device to bend clamp406to an inside angle of 105 degrees. Some of these advantages, however, may also be obtained by having a shape that assists the detaching device in bending clamp406to an inside angle of 90 degrees, if a looser fit clamp406in clamp pocket410is acceptable for a given implementation. This may result, however, in tack assembly102having too much movement within security tag100for a desired implementation. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, abutment502may further comprise an abutment aperture1102. Abutment aperture1102may correspond to upper housing aperture120, with a continuous hole between the two apertures.

In one embodiment, abutment502may be positioned on upper housing inner surface1104so that flat bottom1106may be above clamp aperture1002when upper housing114and lower housing116are melded together to form security tag100. In this position, flat bottom1106of abutment502may provide resistance for clamp406when the driver rods are bending clamp406towards angled walls1108A and1108B to release tack body106. Angled walls1108A and1108B may assist the driver rods to bend clamp406to the desired inside angle to release tack body106from clamp aperture1002, for example. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

It is worthy to note that although the embodiments described herein refer to the use of a pair of driver rods during the detachment process, it can be appreciated that a single driver rod may be used and still fall within the scope of the embodiments. In this example, the shape of aperture502and height of clamp corner supports902may be adjusted such that clamp406may be bent by a single driver rod to a sufficient angle to release tack body106. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

FIG. 12illustrates a view of a clamp for a security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 12illustrates a clamp1200that may be representative of, for example, clamp406. In one embodiment, clamp1200may be made of hardened steel. Other materials may be used for a particular implementation. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, clamp1200may be approximately 0.375 inches long, 0.22 inches wide and 0.011 inches thick. These dimensions may be smaller than conventional clamps, and therefore result in a smaller and less expensive security tag.

In one embodiment, clamp1200may comprise a clamp body1218. Clamp body1218may further comprise end portions1232and1234, as well as a center portion1236. End portions1232and1234may have clamp wings1222and1220, respectively, which are an integral part of clamp body1218. Center portion1236of clamp body1218may also comprise a tack retaining body1224that is an integral part of clamp body1218. Tack retaining body1224may further comprise jaws1202and1204. Jaws1202and1204each extend outwardly of the plane of clamp body1218to form an offset of approximately 0.025 inches, and then inwardly toward the other jaw. Jaws1202and1204, furthermore, may terminate in facing edges1208and1210, respectively. Facing edges1208and1210may together define a clamp aperture1206for receiving tack body106. Clamp aperture1206may be, for example, circular or elliptical in shape. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, tack assembly102may be restrained by clamp1200to complete the attachment operation. As discussed previously with reference toFIG. 2, pointed forward end112of tack body106may be inserted through article202during the attachment operation. Once pointed forward end112of tack body106is inserted through article202, pointed forward end112may be inserted in a downward linear direction into upper housing aperture120. Force may be applied to tack head104thereby moving tack body106through upper housing aperture120. Upper housing aperture120may direct tack body106through clamp aperture1206defined by facing edges1208and1210of jaws1202and1204, respectively. This causes jaws1202and1204to spread or open and allow tack body106to pass through clamp aperture1206. When downward movement of tack assembly102is stopped at an appropriate groove108, jaws1202and1204retract and clutch tack body106. The appropriate groove108may be the groove that seats tack head104in concentric rampart122and thereby secures article202between tack head104and surface136of upper housing114. Once seated, jaws1202and1204may prevent upward movement of tack assembly once they retract around the particular groove108since center portion1236of clamp1200is restrained within security tag100by abutment502. In this manner, security tag100may be securely attached to article202.

In one embodiment, clamp body1218may be curved to form a concave surface1226and a convex surface1230. The amount of curve may vary according to a particular implementation. In one embodiment, for example, clamp body1218may be curved so that the distance between a line1228and one end of convex surface1230may be approximately 0.03 inches or an outside angle1212of approximately 8 degrees. Further, an inside angle1216as measured from the center of concave surface1226may be approximately 164 degrees. The embodiments are not limited to these metrics.

Outside angle1212and inside angle1216may be of particularly importance when releasing tack body106from clamp aperture1206of clamp1200. During the detachment operation, the driver rods from detaching device602may make contact with clamp1200. More particularly, a pair of driver rods may make contact with end portions1232and1234of clamp1200, respectively. The driver rods may apply force to end portions1232and1234to bend clamp1200. During this operation, center portion1236of clamp1200may make contact with abutment502to prevent clamp1200from moving upwards in response to the force applied by the driver rods. The driver rods may bend clamp1200to a release point. The term “release point” as used herein may refer to the degree a clamp is bent to release tack body106from clamp aperture1206. For example, the release point may comprise an angle which spreads jaws1202and1204far enough apart to release tack body106. The release point may vary in accordance with a number of factors, such as the size of the clamp body, clamp aperture, clamp material, clamp hardness, and so forth. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, outside angle1212may be an angle that permits the contact surface of the driver rods to be sufficient to bend end portions1232and1234in the desired direction towards abutment502. Once released, tack body106may be withdrawn from clamp aperture1206, and tack assembly102may be withdrawn from security tag100.

Outside angle1212and inside angle1216may be changed by the driver rods to attain the release point. In one embodiment, for example, inside angle1216may comprise an angle from a set of angles between 146–180 degrees prior to the detachment operation. The particular angle for inside angle1216should be sufficient to allow the driver rods to make contact with the ends of clamp1200, and also facilitate moving the ends of clamp1200towards abutment502. In one embodiment, for example, this may be accomplished by having an inside angle1216of approximately 164 degrees prior to the detachment operation. During the detachment operation, inside angle1216may be changed to a release point comprising an angle from a set of angles between 90–145 degrees, for example. The particular angle for the release point should be sufficient to allow removal of tack body106, and also to assist in preventing unauthorized release of tack body106as discussed below. In one embodiment, for example, this may be accomplished by having a release point of approximately 130 degrees. Inside angle1216prior to the detachment operation, and the release point after the detachment operation, may vary considerable according to a given implementation. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, the clamp1200may also have a yield point. The term “yield point” as used herein may refer to the degree a clamp may be bent to become permanently deformed or unable to return to its original form. The yield point may vary in accordance with a number of factors, such as the size of the clamp body, clamp aperture, clamp material, clamp hardness, and so forth. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

Clamp1200may be made of any type of flexible material with sufficient hardness to adequately retain tack body106, yet flexible enough to bend to the release point and/or yield point. In one embodiment, the detachment operation may bend clamp1200to its yield point or beyond, thereby preventing reuse of clamp1200. In one embodiment, the detachment may bend clamp1200to its release point, but not its yield point, thereby allowing for the repeated use of clamp1200. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

The particular type of clamp used for a given implementation may vary according to a number of factors, such as whether the security tag is designed to be disposable or reused, the level of force desired to prevent manual pull out of tack body106from the clamp, the level of security desired to prevent “defeats” or unauthorized removal of tack body106from security tag100, and so forth. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

In one embodiment, clamp1200may have clamp wings1220and1222. Clamp wings1220and1222may assist in orienting clamp1200within clamp pocket410during the assembly process. For example, the clamp wings1220and1222may ensure that convex surface1230is positioned towards the bottom of clamp pocket410and away from abutment502. This facilitates retaining tack body106during the attachment operation, and releasing tack body106during the detachment operation. If convex surface1230was positioned towards abutment502, for example, the release point and/or yield points may not necessarily remain valid. The curved outer surfaces of clamp wings1220and1222may also provide better contact with clamp supports902, for example.

It is worthy to note that although clamp body1218is shown as curved in this description, it may be appreciated that clamp body1218may also be substantially straight and still fall within the scope of the embodiments. In this case, however, some elements of security tag100may need to be modified, such as the angle for the driver rods, features of abutment502, and so forth. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

FIG. 13illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag and a clamp in a first position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 13illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with clamp1200inserted into clamp pocket410. As shown inFIG. 13, when upper housing114and lower housing116are melded together to form security tag100, upper surface aperture120, clamp aperture1206and lower housing aperture904are aligned along line1304. This facilitates insertion of tack body106into security tag100through upper housing aperture120until pointed forward end112seats in lower housing aperture904. Further, clamp1200may be constrained in position between abutment502and clamp corner supports902. Lateral movement of clamp1200normal to tack body106may be controlled by clamp pocket410formed in protrusion124. This may hold alignment of upper housing aperture120and abutment aperture1102with clamp aperture1206. Location of clamp1200perpendicular to tack body106may be controlled by clamp corner supports902. Abutment502may constrain clamp1200from moving off clamp corner supports902by having flat bottom1106of abutment502rest upon center portion1236of clamp1200.

FIG. 13may also illustrate clamp1200positioned so that end portions1234and1232may be bent by the driver rods towards angled walls1108A and1108B, respectively. Angled walls1108A and1108B may assist the driver rods to bend clamp1200to the desired angle to release tack body106from clamp aperture1002.

FIG. 14illustrates a first view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 14illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with clamp1200inserted in clamp pocket410, and tack assembly102partially inserted into upper housing aperture120. When tack body106is pushed through upper housing aperture120, pointed forward end112of tack body106is aligned to go through clamp aperture1206. Further insertion of tack body106causes pointed forward end112and clamp aperture1206to further align.

FIG. 15illustrates a second view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 15illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with clamp1200inserted in clamp pocket410, tack body106partially inserted into upper housing aperture120, and pointed forward end112partially inserted into clamp aperture1206. As shown inFIG. 15, further insertion of tack body106causes edges112A and112B of the conical shape of pointed forward end112to bear against edges1208and1210, respectively. Pointed forward end112forces clamp aperture1206to enlarge by causing jaws1202and1204to flex against their bias until pointed forward end112goes through clamp aperture1206.

FIG. 16illustrates a third view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 16illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with clamp1200inserted in clamp pocket410, tack body106partially inserted into upper housing aperture120, and tack body106partially inserted into clamp aperture1206. As shown inFIG. 16, further insertion causes tack body106to begin sliding through clamp aperture1206. The insertion causes surfaces106A and106B to contact edges1208and1210, respectively. This causes jaws1202and1204to flex against their bias to a maximum amount during the insertion operation.

FIG. 17illustrates a fourth view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 17illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with clamp1200inserted in clamp pocket410, tack body106fully inserted into upper housing aperture120, and tack body106fully inserted into clamp aperture1206until an appropriate tack groove108is reached. As shown inFIG. 17, the insertion of tack body106through clamp aperture1206may continue until a first tack groove108is reached, which allows the bias of jaws1202and1204to close clamp aperture1206about tack groove108. The closure may cause edges1208and1210to make contact with surfaces108A and108B of tack groove108, respectively. Tack body106may be further inserted into clamp aperture1206until a second tack groove108is reached. This may continue for any number of tack grooves108, depending upon the thickness of article202. Eventually, tack head104will seat in concentric rampart122, and article202will be securely attached between tack head104and surface136of upper housing114. In addition, pointed forward end112will eventually be received by lower housing aperture904.

It is worthy to note that the amount of flexing of clamp1200, and jaws1202and1204, needed to insert tack body106through clamp aperture1206until reaching an appropriate tack groove108, does not cause the clamp to permanently deform or reach its yield point. The amount of force needed to fully insert tack assembly102into security tag100as shown inFIG. 17is approximately 5–10 pounds, depending upon a particular implementation as discussed previously. The amount of force needed to pull tack assembly102from security tag100as shown inFIG. 17may be approximately 80–125 pounds. A direct pull-out force of approximately 80 pounds, for example, should be sufficient to prevent unauthorized removal for most applications.

FIG. 18illustrates a first view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack and driver rods in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 18illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with tack body106fully inserted into clamp aperture1206until a tack groove108is reached, and a pair of driver rods1804and1806positioned to move towards access walls1006and1004, respectively.

In one embodiment, clamp1200is bent past its yield point in order to release tack body106from clamp aperture1206. Since clamp1200is bent past its yield point, it does not fully return to its initial shape. This characteristic makes security tag100in general, and clamp1200in particular, useful for only a single application. Other characteristics of security tag100may also make it useful for only a single application, such as the deforming of outer wall134during the detachment operation, for example.

In one embodiment, inside angle1216should move from approximately 164 degrees to 130 degrees to allow tack body106to be free for removal. Due to some measure of spring return bias remaining in clamp1200despite being bent beyond its yield point, inside angle1216should be moved to approximately 105 degrees in order for clamp1200to stay below 130 degrees once the bending force is removed. Bending clamp1200to an inside angle1216of only 164 to 130 degrees may leave some pull-out resistance against tack body106, although this may be tolerable for some applications.

In one embodiment, clamp1200may be bent using driver rods1804and1806. Driver rods1804and1806may be made of hardened steel, typically 0.093 inches in diameter. Ends1804A and1806A of driver rods1804and1806, respectively, may be shaped to reduce the amount of force needed to penetrate outer wall134of protrusion124, and yet still hold engagement with the circular shape and surface of outer wall134. The shape of driver rod ends1804A and1806A are not limited in this context, as long as they are capable of penetrating outer wall134.

In one embodiment, driver rods1804and1806may penetrate outer wall134at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to tack body106. The embodiments are not limited in this context. For example, driver rods1804and1806may penetrate outer wall134at other angles and engage clamp end portions1232and1234, respectively. The 45 degree angle, however, may provide several advantages over other possible angles.

In one embodiment, the 45 degree angle may facilitate penetration. For example, the 45 degree angle may reduce the contact area between driver rod ends1804A and1806A and access walls1006and1004, respectively. The reduced contact area may facilitate cutting through access walls1006and1004. By way of contrast, an angle closer to 90 degrees may increase the contact area, thereby requiring more force to penetrate the access walls.

In one embodiment, the 45 degree angle may also facilitate the bending of clamp1200. For example, the 45 degree angle may reduce the movement of the contact point between driver rod ends1804A and1806A and clamp end portions1232and1234, respectively, thereby creating a more secure engagement between the rod ends and clamp ends. Other angles closer to 90 degrees may increase the movement between driver rod ends1804A and1806A and clamp end portions1232and1234, thereby decreasing the engagement.

In one embodiment, the 45 degree angle may also reduce the vertical movement of jaws1202and1204. The vertical force/movement caused by angles greater than 45 degrees may increase the possibility of jaws1202and1204pulling tack body106further into security tag100, thereby causing a binding action that may require a much greater force to release tack body106from clamp aperture1206.

Referring again toFIG. 18, clamp1200is bent by driver rods1804and1806. The detachment operation causes driver rods1804and1806to thrust in towards opposite sides of outer wall134of protrusion124. The movement continues up to access walls1006and1004, respectively, in thrust directions1808and1810, respectively.

FIG. 19illustrates a second view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack and driver rods in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 19illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with driver rods1804and1806penetrating access walls1006and1004, respectively. As shown inFIG. 19, driver rods1804and1806proceed through access walls1006and1004until contact is made between driver rod end1804A and clamp end portion1234, and driver rod end1806A and clamp end portion1232.

FIG. 20illustrates a third view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag with a tack and driver rods in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 20illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with driver rods1804and1806penetrating access walls1006and1004, respectively. As shown inFIG. 20, driver rods1804and1806continue to apply force against clamp end portions1234and1232, respectively, and bend clamp1200around abutment502until clamp end portion1234makes contact with angled wall1108A and clamp end portion1232makes contact with angled wall1108B. In the shown position, clamp1200is bent beyond its yield point, and inside angle1216may be approximately 90 degrees, although the embodiments are not limited in this context. At this point, tack body106is released from clamp aperture1206, and may be withdrawn if desired.

FIG. 21illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag and with a tack and a clamp in a second position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 21illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with tack assembly102still inserted after the tack release operation is completed. When tack body106has been released from clamp aperture1206, driver rods1804and1806may be withdrawn from lower housing116. Lower housing116may have apertures2104and2106after the withdrawal operation is complete. Apertures2104and2106indicate that security tag100has been used.

It is worthy to note that apertures2104and2106may be preformed as open apertures into outer wall134, thereby reducing or eliminating the need to penetrate outer wall134using the driver rods to access clamp1200. This may, however, provide easier access to clamp1200and act as a guide for unauthorized release, thereby making security tag100less secure.

FIG. 22illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line A—A of a security tag and with a clamp in a second position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 22illustrates a cross-section taken along line A—A of security tag100with tack assembly102removed after the tack release operation is completed. As shown inFIG. 22, after completion of the detachment operation, clamp1200is permanently bent to approximately 114 degrees so it will be unable to retain tack body106if inserted. A release point of 114 degrees may be greater than needed for a given implementation, but ensures no further tack retention.

FIG. 23illustrates an exterior view of a lower housing for a security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 23illustrates an exterior view of lower housing116of security tag100after the detachment operation is completed. As shown inFIG. 23, aperture2106is visible evidence that security tag100has been used, and therefore security tag100may be discarded or recycled.

FIG. 24illustrates a security tag being inserted into a detaching device in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 24illustrates detaching device602in greater detail. As shown inFIG. 24, first end130of security tag100may be inserted into detaching device602in the first position, such that second end132is along line2402which is perpendicular to the edge of the detaching device represented by line2404. Line2402may be a reference line of 0 degrees, and line2404may represent a 90 degree shift from reference line2402.

In one embodiment, force may be applied to second end132in direction2406to move second end132from the first position to the second position. The force applied to second end132may continue until it reaches the second position, which may or may not cause relief side2412of security tag100to make contact with edge608of detaching device602. Second end132should be approximately along line2408in the second position. Line2408may represent approximately a 45 degree shift relative to the reference line2402.

In one embodiment, offset414as discussed with reference toFIG. 1may allow a greater degree of movement between the first position and the second position for second end132. In one embodiment, offset414may be on both sides of security tag100. In another embodiment, offset414may be on one side of security tag100. For example, the one side may be relief side2412.

In one embodiment, the movement of second end132from the first position to the second position releases tack body106of tack assembly102from clamp1200. The movement causes one or more driver rods to move towards outer wall134of protrusion124. The driver rods penetrate outer wall134of protrusion124to access clamp1200. In one embodiment, for example, the amount of force needed to penetrate outer wall134may be approximately 7 pounds of force. The driver rods bend clamp1200against abutment502beyond a yield point for clamp1200, which releases the tack body. Once tack body106is released from clamp1200, second end132may be moved from the second position back to the first position. This movement withdraws the driver rods from outer wall134of protrusion124. Security tag100may then be removed from detaching device602. After the detachment operation, protrusion124may have one or more holes or apertures through outer wall134.

FIG. 25illustrates an exploded view of a detaching device in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 25illustrates an exploded view of detaching device602. In one embodiment, for example, detaching device602may comprise a housing2524, curved ramps2528and2530, a rotor2534, a cover2504, a cover plate2502, driver rods2540and2548, and various mounting screws.

In one embodiment, detaching device602may also include a bezel, such as bezel610described with reference toFIG. 6. It may be appreciated, however, that any bezel may be used to finish detaching device602.

In one embodiment, rotor2534may further comprise a nest2506, a rotor return spring2510, a rotor return spring pin2518, driver rod apertures2532and2546, a rotor shoulder2536a rotor concentric aperture2542, and a rotor return spring screw2544.

In one embodiment, driver rods2540and2548may have any shape to facilitate penetration or insertion through outer wall134. For example, driver rods2540and2548may be cylindrical, rectangular, triangular, octagonal, and so forth. The embodiments are not limited in this context. Further, driver rods2540and2548each have a first end and a second end. The first end may comprise a wedge shaped tip to help penetrate the access walls. The shape of the first end may be any shape desired to facilitate penetrating the access walls, and the embodiments are not limited in this context. The second end may comprise a bearing assembly, such as bearing assemblies2512and2550. Bearing wheels2514and2538may be attached to bearing assemblies2512and2550, respectively.

FIG. 26illustrates an interior view of a detaching device and an inserted security tag in a first position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 26illustrates detaching device602partially assembled with cover plate2502, cover2504and bezel610removed. It also illustrates first end130of security tag100inserted into detaching device602.

As shown inFIG. 26, when assembled ramp pockets2526and2564receive curved ramps2530and2528, respectively. Rotor cylindrical aperture2516receives rotor2534. Driver rods2540and2548are inserted into driver rod apertures2546and2532, respectively. Bearing wheels2538and2514rest on up ramp surfaces2558and2564, respectively. Rotor return spring2510is attached to rotor return spring screw2544at one end, and rotor return spring pin2518on the other end. One function of the rotor return spring is to bias rotor2534to the first position, to prepare it for the detachment operation, for example. Rotor stop pin2508may be positioned within a rotor pin channel2608. Cover2504is mounted to housing top surface2582using mounting screws or some other fastening mechanisms. Cover plate2502is mounted to cover2504using mounting screws or some other fastening mechanisms. A bezel, such as bezel610, may be mounted to cover plate2502.

In one embodiment, rotor stop pin2508may be positioned within rotor pin channel2608to assist in limiting rotation of second end132and rotor2534. When second end132is in the first position along line2602, rotor stop pin2508may be at a first end2610. First end2610may have a rotor stop pin reference angle of 0 degrees along line2614. When second end132is moved to the second position, rotor stop pin may make contact with a second end2612, thereby limiting further movement of second end132and rotor2534. Second end2612may have an angle of approximately 45 degrees from the rotor stop pin reference angle along line2616.

In one embodiment, housing2524is a substantially rectangular structure. Housing2524may have a housing front face2566with a width of approximately 6 inches, a height of approximately 1.5 inches, and a depth of approximately 3 inches. Housing front face2566may have a housing aperture2522adjacent to rotor2534to allow protrusion124to slide through directly into nest2506. Top surface138of upper housing114is approximately equal to, or slightly below, rotor top surface2556.

In one embodiment, rotor2534is shaped like a cylinder. Rotor2534may be approximately 1.25 inches in diameter and approximately 1.5 inches long. When detaching device602is assembled, rotor2534fits into rotor cylindrical aperture2516of housing2524as shown. Rotor2534may rotate freely within cylindrical aperture2516within limits set by rotor stop pin2508. In one embodiment, rotor stop pin2508is positioned to allow router2534to rotate between 0 degrees and at least 45 degrees, as indicated by lines2602and2604, respectively. Rotor return spring2510may be an extension spring that biases rotor2534to approximately 0 degrees along line2602in the rest position.

In one embodiment, rotor2534may have a concentric hole cut through it that is slightly larger than protrusion124of first end130. A nest2506may be formed in a top surface2556of rotor2534to conform substantially to first end130where upper cover aperture120is coincident to axis2568of rotor2534. Protrusion124extends downward from nest2506into rotor concentric aperture2542. Further, rotor2534is configured to allow first end132to slide horizontally out of or into nest2506. The sliding motion may occur at 0 degrees along line2602and is parallel to its long dimension. When sliding into rotor2534, first end130of security tag100may slide into rotor2534along flat shoulder504of lower housing116near concentric protrusion124.

When rotor2534is inserted into rotor cylindrical aperture2516, a top surface2582of housing2524is approximately 0.25 inches below the level of a rotor shoulder2606. Dirt and other waste material accumulated by detaching device602may fall along rotor concentric aperture2542. Housing2524may have an aperture similar in diameter to rotor concentric aperture2542to allow the dirt and waste material to leave detaching device602.

In one embodiment, rotor2534has driver rod apertures2532and2546. Driver rod apertures2532and2546are in a plane2410that is coincident with an axis2568. Plane2410may be at approximately 67.5 degrees relative to the reference line. Rotor2534may rotate around axis2568. Driver rod apertures2532and2546are positioned on each side of axis2568along plane2410when rotor2534is at approximately 0 degrees. Driver rod apertures2532and2546each extend from an outer curved surface2570of rotor2534through the rotor wall at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to axis2568.

FIG. 27illustrates an interior view of a detaching device and an inserted lower housing for a security tag in a first position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 27illustrates an interior view of detaching device602and an inserted first end130of security tag100in the first position, with upper housing114removed to expose lower housing116. Lower housing116illustrates clamp pocket410, access walls1004and1006, and lower housing aperture904.

As shown inFIG. 27, when first end130of security tag100is inserted into detaching device602in the first position, clamp pocket410and access walls1004and1006are in plane2410, similar to driver rod apertures2532and2546when rotor2534is at approximately 0 degrees.

In one embodiment, driver rods2540and2548each fit into driver rod apertures2546and2532, respectively. During the detachment operation, driver rods2540and2548may slide through their respective apertures towards outer wall134when second end132is moved from the first position to the second position, and away from outer wall134when second end132is moved from the second position to the first position. When first end130is inserted into nest2506, driver rods2540and2548may slide far enough through their respective apertures to penetrate access walls1004and1006, to contact end portions1232and1234of clamp1200, and bend clamp1200about abutment502to approximately 90 degrees.

FIG. 28illustrates an interior view of a detaching device and an inserted security tag in a second position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 28illustrates a security tag100inserted into detaching device602in the second position. In one embodiment, driver rods2540and2548may each have at their second end a bearing assembly, such as bearing assemblies2550and2512. Bearing wheels2514and2538may be attached to bearing assemblies2512and2550, respectively. Bearing wheels2514and2538are positioned to roll along curved ramps2528and2530, respectively. When rotor2534is at 0 degrees along line2802, the first ends of driver rods2540and2548are at or inside outer curved surface2570, as shown inFIG. 31. As rotor2534rotates toward 45 degrees along line2804, bearing wheels2514and2538bear against and roll up ramp surfaces2564and2558, respectively. Driver rods2540and2548attached to bearing wheels2538and2514extend towards outer surface134as bearing wheels2538and2514move up ramp surfaces2558and2564.

In one embodiment, the rate of extension for the driver rods may vary according to the amount of force applied to second end132of security tag100during the detachment operation, but is typically fairly constant. Further, in one embodiment driver rods2540and2548move in approximate unison towards outer surface134, although the embodiments are not limited in this context. Driver rods2540and2548stop extending when rotor2534is stopped by rotor stop pin2508, or approximately 45 degrees.

In one embodiment, rotor2534may be rotated by applying force to second end132of security tag100. As discussed previously, force may be applied to second end132to move it from the first position to the second position in direction2806. At approximately 15 degrees of movement, driver rods2540and2548have penetrated through outer wall134. At approximately 26 degrees, driver rods2540and2548engage clamp1200. At approximately 45 degrees, driver rods2540and2548bend clamp1200around abutment502to an inside angle1216of approximately 86–90 degrees.

FIG. 29illustrates an interior view of a detaching device and an inserted lower housing for a security tag in a second position in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 29illustrates an interior view of detaching device602with an inserted first end130of security tag100in a first position, with upper housing114removed to expose lower housing116. As shown inFIG. 29, when second end132is moved in direction2806from a first position to a second position, driver rods2540and2548penetrate and move through access walls1004and1006, respectively, to access clamp1200.

FIG. 30illustrates an interior view of a lower housing for a security tag having inserted driver rods in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 30illustrates in greater detail an interior view of lower housing116of security tag100with driver rods2540and2548penetrating access walls1004and1006, respectively. As stated previously, driver rods2540and2548may each have a first end that comprises a wedge shaped tip to help penetrate the access walls.FIG. 30illustrates driving rod2540having a wedge shaped tip2540A at its first end.FIG. 30also illustrates driver rod2548having a wedge shaped tip2548A at its first end. The wedge shape of tips2540A and2548A may facilitate driver rods2540and2548in cutting through access walls1004and1006, respectively, thereby facilitating penetration into such walls.

Referring again toFIG. 26, once second end132of security tag100moves to the second position to release tack body106from clamp aperture1206, second end132may be returned from the second position to the first position. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by rotor return spring2510. Rotor return spring2510may be mounted on housing top surface2582. Rotor return spring2510may be positioned to have a relaxed state with sufficient spring tension to bias second end132to the first position, or approximately 0 degrees along line2602. As rotor2534is rotated to the second position at approximately 45 degrees along line2604in direction2618, rotor return spring2510may be stretched to accommodate the rotation. Once tack body106is released, a person may release second end132, and rotor return spring2510will pull rotor2534and second end132in a direction2620back to the first position along line2602. It may be appreciated that rotor return spring2510may be eliminated in one embodiment, and manual force may be used to return rotor2534and second end132back to their initial position. It may also be appreciated that the movement between the first and second positions may be completely automated as well.

In one embodiment, curved ramps may be made of any stable material, such as aluminum or aluminum filled epoxy. Rotor2534may be made of any plastic. In one embodiment, for example, rotor2534may comprise a self-lubricating plastic such as Delrin plastic. The self-lubricating Delrin plastic facilitates movement of the driver rods through the driver rod apertures, thereby reducing friction and binding, and also reducing the need to clean and lubricate rotor2534.

FIG. 31illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line P—P of a security tag inserted into a detaching device in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 31illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line P—P of security tag100as inserted into detaching device602. As shown inFIG. 31, bearing wheels2514and2538are positioned to roll along curved ramps2528and2530, respectively. When rotor2534is at 0 degrees, first ends2540A and2548A of driver rods2540and2548are at or inside outer curved surface2570, but not within rotor concentric aperture2542. This facilitates inserting first end130into nest2506. As rotor2534rotates toward 45 degrees, bearing wheels2514and2538bear against and roll up ramp surfaces2564and2558, respectively. Driver rods2540and2548attached to bearing wheels2538and2514extend towards outer surface134as bearing wheels2538and2514move up ramp surfaces2558and2564.

When returning from the second position to the first position, bearing wheels2514and2538bear against and roll on down ramp surfaces2584A and2586A of fences2584and2586, respectively. Driver rods2540and2548attached to bearing wheels2538and2514withdraw from outer surface134back within rotor2534as bearing wheels2538and2514move on down ramp surfaces2584A and2586A. When driver rods2540and2548are withdrawn, clamp1200is left bent to an inside angle of approximately 114 degrees, and therefore is unable to retain another tack body106.

In one embodiment, conical surface2560is between up ramp surface2558and down ramp surface2584A. Similarly, conical surface2562is between up ramp surface2564and down ramp surface2586A. Conical surfaces2560and2562may provide a sliding surface for the side of each bearing wheel that maintains axis3104and3106, respectively, of each bearing wheel in substantially the same plane as axis2568. As a result, bearing wheels2538and2514remain engaged with conical surfaces2560and2562, and driver rods2540and2548are kept from rotating as they move into outer wall134and bend clamp1200.

In one embodiment, the side of each bearing wheel does not necessarily need to slide along conical surfaces2560and2562. Rather, bearing brackets2588and2590of bearing assemblies2550and2512, respectively, may slide on top of fences2584and2586, respectively. In this configuration, the sides of bearing wheels2538and2514may not touch conical surfaces2560and2562, respectively. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

As shown inFIG. 31, bearing wheels2514and2538may each comprise one or more wheels to roll along their respective curved ramps. In one embodiment, for example, bearing wheels2514and2538may each comprise two bearing wheels, with a bearing wheel on each side of bearing wheel axis3106and3104, respectively.

In one embodiment, cover2504may have a relief channel to house rotor return spring2510. Cover2504may also have a cover aperture2572that approximates the diameter of rotor2534, and is aligned with concentric aperture2542. Cover2504aligns with housing2524and encloses curved ramp pockets2520and2526formed in housing2524. Rotor top surface2556is just below a top surface of cover2504approximately 0.006 inches. Alignment pins may be used to align cover2504to housing2524to ensure rotor2534does not bind during rotation. A front edge for cover2504has an aperture2574forming an extension for nest2506. This allows first end130of security tag100to slide directly into nest2506as described previously. Shoulders for nest2506align with shoulders for aperture2574. A left side2576for aperture2574is rounded to facilitate entry of first end130.

In one embodiment, cover2504may have a relief area2578. Relief area2578allows second end132to be pushed to the second position. The shape for relief area2578not only facilitates movement to the second position, but it also makes it easier to slide first end130into detaching device602. The result is enhanced usability. In addition, relief area2578performs a security function. Security tags without an offset414of more than approximately 0.2 inches may not be rotated far enough to reach the second position, and therefore may not be detached using detaching device602.

In one embodiment, cover plate2502covers detaching device602. Cover plate2502may be made of a firm thin material such as sheet stainless steel. Cover plate2502may be approximately 0.040 inches thick, and has an area that approximately covers cover2504. Cover plate2502may be secured to housing2524using flat-head screws inserted into tapped holes drilled into housing2524, with cover2504held between cover plate2502and housing2524. Mounting cover2504and cover plate2502to housing2524does not bind rotor2534due to the approximate 0.006 inch spacing referred to above.

In one embodiment, cover plate2502may have a relief area2580. Relief area2580may consist of a substantially round hole having an axis that is coincident with axis2568. Relief area2580may have a diameter that is slightly larger than outside wall134of concentric rampart122. One side of relief area2580may be removed to allow first end130to be inserted into nest2506. Further, the resulting sharp corners may be rounded to facilitate insertion.

In one embodiment, cover plate2502functions to restrain security tag100within detaching device602. Driver rods2540and2548may provide an upward force to security tag100as they are driving through outer wall134to bend clamp1200. Surface138of upper housing114bears against the corresponding surface for cover plate2502as second end132is being rotated. Cover plate2502also functions to restrain vertical movement of rotor2534. As driver rods2540and2548are moving through rotor2534, there may be a tendency for rotor2534to move up from rotor cylindrical aperture2516. Cover plate2502assists in restraining rotor2534from this vertical movement during rotation.

FIG. 32illustrates an exterior view of an upper housing for a security tag in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 32illustrates an upper housing3200for a security tag, such as security tag100, for example. As shown inFIG. 32, upper housing3200may have an offset3202on one side of security tag100. Offset3202may be representative of, for example, offset414. Offset3202may be on a relief side3204. Relief side3204may be the side of the security tag that moves towards edge608when second end132is moved from the first position to the second position. Offset3202allows rotor2534to rotate sufficiently to move the driver rods through outer wall134of security tag100during the detachment operation.

FIG. 33illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line C—C of a detaching device and a line D—D of a security tag, with the detaching device having a first securing device in a first position, in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 33may illustrate a securing device3300to secure detaching device602when not in use. As shown inFIG. 33, a locking bar aperture3304may be created perpendicular to rotor axis3102. Locking bar aperture3304may extend through a wall of housing2524and into rotor2534when rotor2534is at approximately 0 degrees. In an unlocked position, locking bar3302may be withdrawn into locking bar aperture3304such that locking bar3302is in the wall of housing2524, and no part of locking bar3302is in rotor2534. In the unlocked position, rotor2534may be rotated inside housing2524, thereby allowing the detachment operation.

FIG. 34illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line C—C of a detaching device and a line D—D of a security tag, with the detaching device having a first securing device in a second position, in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 34may illustrate security device3300in a locked position. In the locked position, locking bar3302may be inserted into locking bar aperture3304such that part of locking bar3302is in the wall of housing2524, and part of locking bar3302is in rotor2534. This may prevent rotor2534from being rotated inside housing2524, thereby preventing the detachment operation.

Movement of locking bar3302may be performed manually, automatically, or by a combination of both. In one embodiment, for example, movement of locking bar3302may be performed using a key lock having a lever arm. In one embodiment, for example, movement of locking bar3302may be performed using a key switch3310to control electricity flow to a solenoid3306. Key switch3310may have an on position and an off position.FIG. 33illustrates key switch3310in the off position.FIG. 34illustrates key switch3310in the on position. In the off position, key switch3310may shut off electricity flow to solenoid3306. Solenoid3306may control compression spring3308by causing it to expand and withdraw locking bar3302into the wall of housing2524.FIG. 33illustrates compression spring3308as expanded. In the on position, key switch3310may allow electricity flow to excite solenoid3306. Solenoid3306may control compression spring3308by causing it to contract and move locking bar3302through locking bar aperture3304and into rotor2538.FIG. 34illustrates compression spring3308as contracted. Key switch3310may be the same switch used for other electronic devices used in a business, such as a cash register, or a separate switch. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

FIG. 35illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line C—C of a detaching device and a line D—D of a security tag, with the detaching device having a second securing device in a first position, in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 35may illustrate a securing device3500to secure detaching device602when not in use. In one embodiment, securing device3500may secure detaching device602by blocking nest2506to prevent first end130of security tag100from being inserted into nest2506. A circular locking bar3506can fit into rotor cylindrical aperture2542.FIG. 35illustrates circular locking bar3506in an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, circular locking bar3506may be withdrawn from nest2506to allow first end130of security tag100to be inserted into nest2506of detaching device602.

FIG. 36illustrates a view of a cross-section taken along line C—C of a detaching device and a line D—D of a security tag, with the detaching device having a second securing device in a second position, in accordance with one embodiment.FIG. 36may illustrate securing device3500in a locked position. In the locked position, circular locking bar3506may be moved into nest2506to prevent first end130of security tag100from being inserted into nest2506of detaching device602.

Movement of circular locking bar3506may be performed manually, automatically, or by a combination of both. In one embodiment, for example, movement of circular locking bar3506may be performed using a key lock3502having a lever arm3504.FIG. 35illustrates key lock3502, lever arm3504and circular locking bar3506in the unlocked position.FIG. 36illustrates key lock3502, lever arm3504and circular locking bar3506in the locked position. In another embodiment, for example, movement of circular locking bar3506may be accomplished automatically, using a mechanism similar to the one described with reference toFIGS. 33 and 34.

It is worthy to note that the locking mechanisms described herein may be biased towards a locked position, in the event of a power loss or some other external event that affects the operation of the detaching device. For example, if the locking mechanism is powered by a motor, and the power is cut off, the locking mechanism may automatically assume a locked position using a residual power source, such as a battery. In another example, the locking mechanism may always be in a locked position initially, and only unlocks prior to performing the detachment operation.