Tamper-resistant identification device

A tamper-resistant, identification device employing a myriad of modes of identifying indicia placement, wherein the device comprises a flexible band having opposed first and second ends wherein one of the ends has at least two apertures and the other end has corresponding rows of apertures wherein by placing the device in encircling configuration, so as to obtain alignment and coincidence of selected apertures, the two ends may be securely fastened together by a variety of fastening means. Additionally, the availability of a choice of identification means and fastening means provides an identification device of high, temper-resistant character especially useful in high security risk applications. Other selective combinations of identification means and fastening means also provides an identification device which is highly versatile having a plurality of applications of end uses.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
There presently exists a need to be able to identify a variety of objects, 
things and personnel by means of an expedient which is easy to use, easy 
to apply and which offers a myriad of choices in information placement, 
all in a manner which is economically feasible and which results in 
identification which is virtually tamper-resistant. 
The art has proposed various devices for identification purposes, some 
utilizing flexible bands having envelopes or pockets in which are 
contained insert cards bearing printed or typewritten indicia with various 
means of securing the bands to the objects or persons to be identified. 
In some of these prior art devices, tamper resistance is essentially 
lacking where it is necessary to prohibit unauthorized persons from either 
switching or changing the identification indicia, i.e. by slitting the 
information envelope or pocket the indicia may be removed and substituted 
with other indicia in such a manner that such exchange is relatively 
undetectable. Additionally, some of the identification devices lend 
themselves to exchange of information or removal of the identification 
devices themselves and substitution with another identification device by 
expanding or stretching the identification device so that it may be 
exchanged or substituted by unauthorized persons. 
For example, and as a specific illustrative example, penal and medical 
institutions are at present utilizing identification bands or bracelets 
which are not fully tamper-resistant to the extent that some of the prior 
art devices may be tampered with to exchange or substitute identifying 
information or permit complete removal of the identification devices by 
tampering with the band itself, the identifying indicia or the fastening 
mechanism utilized to secure the identification devices. It is highly 
undesirable to permit a situation where the identification devices 
themselves or alternately the information contained thereon or therein may 
be altered by unauthorized personnel, either for criminal purposes or for 
other purposes where such devices are utilized in medical or general 
applications. 
For example, taking the instance of penal use of identification devices, 
incarcerated prisoners at various stages of criminal proceedings are 
provided with identification devices that are fastened or secured to the 
wrist of an individual upon criminal booking and which serves as 
identification means for that particular inmate for subsequent 
proceedings. That is, the inmate is provided with specific identification 
which is thereafter utilized in order to accurately identify that 
individual when that individual is taken from, for example, a holding area 
of prisoners to appear before a court; identifies that individual through 
the duration of the criminal proceedings and is also relied upon, with 
regard to transfer of certain prisoners to other institutions and is even 
utilized to identify an individual who is to be either released on bond or 
otherwise set free. It thus becomes encumbent upon officials to be able to 
obtain accurate identification, especially where large numbers of 
prisoners are involved, (as is usually the case in large municipalities, 
where the number of accused prisoners is large) and the number of police 
officers is also large and subject to transfer and/or rotation to other 
duties which prevent normal identification by facial or other physical 
characteristics. 
There are other instances where identification is required which 
identification should not be easily tampered with or removed, wherein the 
subject matter to be identified are inaminate objects. Such identification 
devices should be such that once applied to an object for either 
warehousing, shipping or other purposes, should not be easily removed or 
tampered with so as to insure that once the identification process has 
been accomplished that the likelihood of exchange or substitution of 
information is unlikely. 
In many instances of the prior art devices, information was easily 
exchanged, the devices were such that they could be expanded so as to 
permit easy removal as, for example, from the wrist, or alternately 
utilized securement means which could be easily tampered with especially 
when considering the large amount of time available to, for example, the 
hospital patient or a penal inmate. With the herein disclosed invention 
there is provided an identification device for identifying persons and 
objects which obviate the aforealluded to shortcomings existing in the 
prior art. A variety of modes of application of indicia is provided, ease 
of application of that indicia and a device which is easily applied where, 
by the construction of the device, tampering with the device is 
substantially reduced if not eliminated. The devices of this invention all 
but make it impossible to change identification indicia once put in place 
and makes it substantially impossible for any undetectable tampering with 
the securement members or devices themselves making up the construction 
thereof. 
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
It is an object of the invention to provide an identification device. 
It is another object of the invention to provide an identification device 
of tamper-resistant construction. 
It is still another important object of the invention to provide an 
identification device employing a myriad of modes of applying identifying 
indicia. 
It is still another more important object of the invention to provide an 
identification device which is strong in construction acting as a deterent 
with regard to removal thereof once in place without substantial 
destruction or mutilation of the device to thereby indicate tampering. 
It is still another more specific important object of the invention to 
provide identification devices of a specific construction utilizing a 
variety of modes of placement of identification indicia, which is easy to 
use, to provide tamper-resistant identification. 
It is another still even further important object of the invention to 
provide identification devices wherein said devices are provided with a 
construction which permits the use of a tamper-resistant indicia and 
wherein the devices may be selectively sized and permanently secured, the 
removal of which would require destruction or mutilation of the 
identification device. 
It is still another and still further important object of the invention to 
provide an identification device utilizing a plurality of sizing 
apertures, each of which coact with the securement means to secure the 
identification device in a tamper-resistant manner. 
It is still another and still further specific object of the invention to 
provide an identification device which has applicability in high security 
risk environments and which prevents or inhibits the exchange of 
information on such identification devices or removal and substitution 
thereof. 
It is still another and still further more important object of the 
invention to provide a mode of identification which allows easy placement 
of indicia and facile placement of the identification device on the 
object, person or thing to be identified. 
It is still a further more specific object of the invention to provide an 
identification device comprised of a flexible band having a multiple ply 
construction wherein elongation of the flexible band is substantially 
reduced and/or eliminated without detection. 
It is still another more specific important object of the invention to 
provide an identification device of a flexible band nature having spaced 
apertures on each end thereof wherein the band may be placed in encircling 
engagement, the apertures of each of the ends placed in aligned 
coincidence and secured in tamper-resistant fashion by a securement means 
of selective character. 
It is still another even more specific object of the invention to provide 
an identification device of high strength and of high resistance to 
removal and/or tampering with the device itself or the identifying indicia 
carried by the device. 
Basically, in an exemplary embodiment, the invention pertains to an 
identification device comprising a flexible band of sufficient length for 
encircling engagement of an object to be identified, wherein the flexible 
band has a first end portion, an intermediate portion and an opposed 
second end portion. The first end portion has at least two spaced 
apertures adjacent the terminus thereof while the second end portion has a 
plurality of spaced apertures, any two of which are adapted to be placed 
in aligned coincidence with said at least two spaced apertures in the 
first end portion. The intermediate portion is adapted to carry indicia in 
a tamper-resistant manner. Means to securely fasten and retain said end 
portions in an over-under relationship is also provided wherein the first 
and second end portions are secured when the flexible band is positioned 
in an encircling configuration. The securement means is positioned in said 
at least two spaced apertures and said any two of said plurality of spaced 
apertures when in aligned coincidence so as to provide tamper-resistant 
securement. 
In other embodiments of the herein disclosed invention, the fastening means 
are integrally connected to the first end portion of the flexible band and 
in other instances rows of apertures either in side-by-side, axial 
relationship or in staggered relationship is provided in the second end 
portion of the band and adapted for alignment with the apertures in the 
first end portion so as to be able to receive the securement means once 
the flexible band is put in encircling relationship. 
These and other objects of the invention will become apparent when 
considering the drawings and the hereinafter following commentary.

DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST EMBODIMENT CONTEMPLATED 
Before proceeding with a specific description of the invention which for 
purposes of illustration will be directed to a type of bracelet that finds 
application in security risk situations, as, for example, may be found in 
penal institutions or police-type environments, it should be noted that 
the invention has greater application and field of use and may be employed 
in non-high risk types of uses, as, for example, may be found in a general 
hospital. While specifically described with regard to utilization of 
identification devices for personnel, the invention is not to be thusly 
limited in that the identification devices of this invention are also 
applicable to identifying objects and things. 
Furthermore, before the specific description proceeds, it is well to 
consider the three essential or salient components of the identification 
devices of this invention in generic terms, it being understood that the 
three components are the band, the securement means and the identification 
means, all of which are selectively variable depending upon ultimate end 
use to provide an identification device of versatile character. 
The Flexible Band 
Generally speaking, the size of the identification devices of this 
invention will be dictated by the end use to which the identification 
devices are to be put. For example, where the identification devices are 
to be put in encircling securement on a large diameter object, the length 
of the flexible band will be longer, whereas if the identification devices 
are to be utilized to identify patients in hospitals or inmates in penal 
institutions or similar such uses in identifying human beings and 
depending upon the plurality of apertures and securement means being 
utilized, the flexible band will either be longer or shorter or narrower 
or wider. However, in the typical case where it is desired to utilize a 
double row of spaced apertures and wherein it is desired to utilize the 
identification device in encircling securement about the wrist of a human 
being, the length of the adjustable band will be between 101/2 inches and 
11 inches although shorter and longer lengths may also be utilized. 
Additionally, in such an instance, the width of the band may typically be 
between 1/2 to 1 inch in width although those of ordinary skill in the art 
will at once recognize that the foregoing dimensions are in no way 
delimiting of the invention of the identification devices of this 
invention. 
Briefly alluded to hereinbefore is the fact that the identification devices 
of this invention are susceptible to various configurations without 
departing from the essence of the invention in that the herein disclosed 
structures provide features which ensure the strength and tamper-resistant 
nature of the identification devices. In the disclosed structures, at 
least two rows of spaced apertures are utilized in order to provide the 
high security and tamper resistance necessary in the identification 
devices of this invention. While the plurality of apertures may be aligned 
in spaced rows so as to provide two rows, it is of course, contemplated 
that the spaced apertures may be staggered or aligned in a diagonal with 
regard to the longitudinal axis of the flexible band. Where the staggered 
configuration of either two or more apertures is utilized in one of the 
flexible band ends, the equivalent aperture number and placement must be 
utilized in the opposing end of the flexible band and the securement means 
utilized to coact therewith accordingly. 
In some instances the configuration of the flexible band is so-called 
straight line or linear whereas in some instances the flexible band will 
have an L-shaped or flexible tab configuration at one end of the flexible 
band, the purposes of which will become self-explanatory as the specific 
description proceeds. 
While the identification devices of the invention may be individually 
fabricated, it will be seen from the specific commentary that ideally, it 
is preferred that a sheet of flexible bands be so fabricated that they are 
easily removable and separable from the sheet form, the sheet form 
permitting ease of placement of a plurality of flexible bands in an 
imprinting means such as, for example, a typewriter, so that upon 
insertion into a typewriter an individual flexible band may be imprinted 
thereon and easily removed from the remaining sheet as will become more 
apparent. In other instances, because of the particular securement means 
utilized or the specific configuration of the flexible band, it would not 
be desirable to place the bracelets in an imprinting means such as, for 
example, a typewriter, but may still be desirable to have such individual 
flexible bands somehow integrated but easily separable so as to provide an 
integral sheet which is easily handled. 
Generally speaking, the end use to which the identification devices of this 
invention will be put to will dictate the material from which the flexible 
band is fabricated and will also dictate the quality of that material. For 
example, if the identification device is to be utilized with regard to 
human beings, it is desirable to utilize a material which is of medical 
grade so as not to be toxic or an irritant to the body of a human being. 
Generally speaking, the material making up the flexible band may be any 
natural or synthetic material having a tenacious character. By tenacious 
is meant the ability to withstand tearing or stretching so as to stand up 
through the rigors of the intended use of the identification devices of 
this invention. 
The material utilized in fabricating the flexible band should be 
dimensionally stable in the sense that it has a relatively high modulus of 
elasticity; a relatively low yield strength; a relatively high ultimate 
strength and if elongated appreciably, visually indicates such elongation. 
This lessens the risk of the band being unintentionally or purposely 
removed from the object or person to which has been secured the 
identification device. 
Particularly suitable materials are plastic materials with or without 
fibrous components. Satisfactory plastic materials are the poly-vinyl 
chloride plastics and co-polymers thereof and some of the acetate plastics 
which are known for their dimensional stability and similar 
characteristics as for example non-toxicity, softness and other features 
making their use particularly suitable for association with human beings 
without adverse side effects. 
Of the natural fibrous materials, such materials as resin reinforced 
papers, plastic coated papers and the like are also desirable but in the 
synthetic fibrous materials, a satisfactory material made of polyethylene 
fibers by an integrated spinning and bonding process wherein the fibers 
are self bonded by heat and pressure to form a synthetic plastic not 
requiring binders, sizes or fillers and unplasticized, bi-axially oriented 
poly-vinyl chloride plastics fulfills many of the criteria of the 
identification devices of this invention. 
In most instances, a material thickness of about 4 to 30 mils will provide 
sufficient strength to the flexible band to insure the tamper-resistant 
aspect of the identification device. In some instances, the flexible band 
may be a single ply or layer of material or in other instances, may be 
comprised of multiple layers. For example, in some instances, a three 
layer or ply flexible band is desirable in that a single intermediate 
layer of a self-bonded polyethylene fiber plastic, polyethylene 
terephthalate resin or an unplasticized, bi-axially oriented polyvinyl 
chloride layer interdisposed between two synthetic plastic layers will 
give the strength and tear resistance and tamper evidence necessary for 
use of the identification devices of this invention in high security risk 
environments. In other instances, to ensure additional strength, a dual 
layer of a fibrous intermediate component of the flexible band will be 
necessary having two outer layer synthetic plastic layers, so as to 
provide a dimensionally stable, high strength flexible band. 
The selection of the materials used in fabricating the identification 
devices of this invention will be in major part dictated by the end use to 
which the identification devices will be put and also means or mode of 
placement of indicia with association with the identification device in 
that where it is desirable to utilize an identification mode simply 
comprising the application of ink, the material of the flexible band which 
is to receive the identifying indicia should be receptive to the 
particular fluid, ink or dye used in forming the identifying indicia. In 
other instances where a pocket which is subsequently sealed by heat or 
otherwise receives imprinted indicia in card form, the type of material of 
the inner and outer layers or ply will not be as important. These 
selective aspects of the invention will become more apparent as the 
specific description proceeds and will also be cognizable by those of 
skill in the art when considering the end use to which the identification 
devices will be put. For example, if the identification devices of the 
invention are to be utilized in a hospital environment or in a penal 
institution environment, the materials making up the flexible band should 
be resistant to soaps, water, alcohol or similar such types of fluids 
and/or chemicals which would normally and naturally be expected to come 
into contact with the identification device. 
The Securement Means 
The securement means, as the flexible band, is highly selectable depending 
upon the ultimate end use to which the identification device of this 
invention will be put. The securement means must be such so as to impart a 
high degree of tamper resistance so that the identification device may not 
be easily removed without complete or total destruction thereof thereby 
signaling any tampering. 
The types of securement means contemplated include specific designs of 
rivets and in some instances utilize metal and/or plastic fastening 
members of the self-locking type which employ a male member and a female 
member which upon cooperative association, provides a fastener which is 
highly resistant or tamper proof with regard to effecting disengagement of 
the male member from the female member. Such types of fastening members 
are well known in the art and a suitable type of plastic locking 
securement means found to be suitable is that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 
3,561,074 for METHOD OF MOUNTING FASTENER COMPONENTS AND CONSTRUCTION 
THEREOF and U.S. Pat. No. 3,551,963 for SELF-LOCKING SNAP FASTENER. 
Inasmuch as such fastener components are well known in the art, further 
detail will not be delved into, but with respect to the unique fastening 
or securement members which are unique to the practice of the invention, 
such description will be amplified with regard to the specific description 
with regard to the figures of the drawings. 
The number and type of securement means will of necessity be dictated by 
the configuration and design of the flexible band of the identification 
device and as the specific description proceeds it will be obvious that 
where a multiple aperture is utilized in the flexible band a securement 
means of multiple character will, of necessity, be required in order to 
provide adequate and secure placement of the identification device with 
respect to the object, person or thing to be identified. In the disclosed 
embodiments, the securement means will be at least of a dual nature so as 
to provide the strength and tamper-resistant character of the 
identification devices of this invention. 
In other instances where the flexible band utilizes a tab or other than a 
straight line configuration, the securement means as well as placement 
with regard to the flexible band will be dictated by these parameters. 
The Identification Means 
Again, depending upon the end use to which the identification devices of 
this invention are to be put, the identification means used in conjunction 
with the identification devices of this invention are susceptible to a 
high degree of selectivity. In some instances, the flexible band may be 
formed with a receiving pocket in order to receive inserts to which have 
already been placed identifying indicia or which subsequently may be acted 
upon to produce identifying indicia with the pocket opening being 
inaccessible subsequent to placement of the identification devices in 
secured fashion. The pocket opening may be heat sealed or adhesively 
sealed either before or after the identifying indicia has been provided. 
Obviously, where the pocket concept is utilized, it will be desirable that 
the upper layer of the flexible band forming the pocket be somewhat 
transparent or translucent so as to permit easy reading of the identifying 
indicia. 
Also contemplated in the practice of the invention is a flexible band which 
itself is adapted to receive identifying indicia on the surface thereof or 
alternately on the interior of one or more plies making up the flexible 
band. The identifying indicia substances may take the form of inks, dyes 
and other chemicals or fluids as well as solid compounds which are adapted 
to produce identifying indicia. The identifying indicia fluids or 
compounds may also be encapsulated and placed on at least one ply of the 
material making up the flexible band and thereafter acted upon to produce 
the desired identifying indicia. Also contemplated are such marking 
materials as "NCR" paper of the general type disclosed in the U.S. Pat. to 
Green, Nos. 2,299,693, 2,234,862 and 2,730,456. As is well known in this 
type of marking system, a marking material, substance or chemical is 
micro-encapsulated in rupturable capsules and adhered to a surface of a 
paper sheet or the like which upon the application of pressure ruptures 
the capsules to allow imprinting or marking of indicia or alternately the 
interreaction of one chemical with another contained on the surface of a 
juxtapositioned member or layer in order to form the identifying indicia. 
The identification means may comprise an area equivalent to the width of 
the flexible band and may extend in a lengthwise direction a selected 
degree depending upon the placement and number of apertures utilized in 
the flexible band. Additionally, the area utilized for identifying indicia 
may be such as to also provide for the placement of an identifying 
fingerprint of the ultimate wearer or user of the identification device. 
In some instances, placement of the fingerprint and identifying indicia 
directly on the surface of the flexible band with or without subsequent 
overcoverage with a segment of tape or non-erasable tape will permit 
viewing of the identifying indica and will also signal any tampering 
thereof as by means of erasure and the like. In some instances, the color 
of the band itself may serve as sufficient identifying indicia. 
In all instances, the identifying indicia is such that changing, altering 
or tampering with the indicia becomes readily discernible and indicates to 
proper authorities that the identification device has been tampered with. 
Specific Description 
Referring to the figures of drawing, wherein like numerals of reference 
designate like elements throughout and referring specifically to FIGS. 1a 
through 1d inclusive, an identification device 2 of the invention is 
illustrated as comprising a flexible band 4 of straight line configuration 
comprising a multiply or layer construction. In this particular instance, 
the flexible band 4 has a first synthetic plastic layer or ply 6 and a 
second opposed layer 8 with an intermediate layer 10 of high strength 
characteristic such as biaxially oriented, unplasticized poly-vinyl 
chloride, polyethylene terephthalate resin or self bonded polyethylene 
fiber plastics and while one layer 10 is illustrated, in high security 
risk environments in which the identification device 2 is to be utilized, 
it may be necessary to utilize a dual stiffening layer so that the 
flexible band 4 would comprise first and second outer layers having 
intermediate or sandwiched plural layers. 
The flexible band 4 has a first end portion 12 having at least two spaced 
apertures 14, a second end portion 16 with a plurality of spaced apertures 
18 in this instance forming a dual row and the apertures in each of the 
rows being in spaced alignment and being adapted to coincide with the 
apertures 14 in first end portion 12 once the identification device 2 has 
been put in encircling relationship of, for example, the wrist of a prison 
inmate. Intermediate the ends 12 and 16 is identification area 20 in this 
particular instance formed as a pocket 22 defined by the upper surface 22 
of layer 6 and a transparent plastic layer 24. Placed in pocket 22 is an 
insert card 26 to which identifying indicia has been typed, written or 
otherwise placed thereon. In some instances, the insert 26 may be of the 
type containing micro-encapsulated ink or dye in which event the pocket 22 
is sealed as by heat, adhesive or otherwise along the juncture 28. Where 
the insert 26 has already been provided with the identifying indicia, the 
insert is placed within the pocket 22 and thereafter the pocket sealed as 
at the juncture 28. The insert 26 may also be heat sealable or have a heat 
sealable plastic layer thereon for fusion bonding to the plastic layer 24 
and/or the opposed upper surface of layer 10. 
In fabrication of the identifying identification device 2, the multi-layers 
of material may be heat sealed to one another while the apertures 14 and 
18 are formed. The peripheral edge 30 about the perimeter of the bracelet 
and the perimetric area 32, adjacent and forming each of the apertures 18 
and 14, are sealed to form an integral structure and to ensure substantial 
water-resistance of the identification device 2 to prohibit water or other 
fluid entry, between the layers 6, 8 and 10 making up the identification 
device 2. 
Referring now to FIGS. 2a and 2b, a preferred type of identification means 
is illustrated wherein the identification device 2' is constructed 
similarly to the device 2 illustrated in FIG. 1a, with the exception that 
intermediate the ends 12' and 16' the identification area 34 is itself 
formed by the upper surface 36 of ply or layer 6' which is adsorbent or 
absorbent to ink, dye or other marking media and which receives imprinted 
or written indicia directly thereon and has placed thereover a segment 38 
either adhesively secured or heat sealingly secured to the surface 36 
wherein the segment 38 may be opaque, transparent or transluscent and 
which segment 38 is not removable once secured to the upper surface 36. In 
some instances, the indicia may be imprinted or otherwise written directly 
on the surface 40 of segment 38 which is indicia receptive as described 
above and which surface may be provided with an erasure-proof underlying 
design or pattern such as shown in FIG. 2a, which inhibits or prohibits 
alteration of identifying indicia subsequently placed on the surface 40 of 
segment 38 should erasure or other alteration be attempted. 
Referring to FIGS. 3a-3c inclusive, the identification device shown therein 
and designated 42 comprises a first end portion 44 in this instance having 
two spaced apertures 46 in direct alignment and having an opposed or 
second end portion 48 employing the rows 50 of spaced apertures 52, the 
number of which is dictated by the length of the flexible band making up 
the identification device 42. The identification means area 54 as well as 
the layers making up the flexible band portion of the identification 
device 42 may be as that previously described for FIG. 1a and FIG. 2a. 
In use the flexible band making up identification device 42 and more 
specifically first end 44, is provided with, in this instance, a dual 
eyelet fastener 56 of integral construction and comprising a plate member 
58 having two spaced male rivet portions 60 of a size and spacing to be 
received in and through apertures 46 of first end portion 44. Upon 
placement of the rivet fastening member 56 in the position shown in FIG. 
3c the second end portion 48 is put in encircling arrangement or 
configuration with regard to the object or thing which is to be identified 
and the apertures 52 are selected so as to make the identification device 
42 somewhat form fitting around the object or, for example, the wrist of 
the wearer of the identification device 42 and the male rivet portions 60 
are then received through the pair of aligned apertures 52 in the rows 50 
and thereafter the upper plate 62 is positioned so as to sandwich the ends 
44 and 48 therebetween and to come to rest about the male rivet portions 
60 of rivet fastener 56. Thereafter, by utilization of a conventional or 
specifically designed rivetting tool, the male rivet portions 60 are 
turned over or deformed as shown in FIG. 3b to provide a secure, 
tamper-resistant fastener which cannot be removed without either 
destroying the identification device 42 or making tampering therewith self 
evident. The plate component 58 of fastener member 56 and the upper plate 
member 62 provide for load distribution and positive captivity of the end 
portions of the band so as to prevent easy removal or breakage of the 
flexible band of identification device 42. Once the rivet securement 
member 56 has been securely positioned, the excess portion of end 48 may 
be removed as by cutting with scissors or the like. The means of securing 
the rivet securement member 56 should be self evident to anyone of 
ordinary skill in the identification device art or for that matter, in the 
rivetting art in that all that is necessary is to deform the male rivet 
portion 60 into the configuration shown in FIG. 3b of the drawings. 
Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c, an identification device 61 is 
illustrated conforming in all structural matters with the identification 
device 42 previously described but differing in the particular securement 
or fastening member. In this instance, the fastening means 64 is integral 
and comprises a plate-like member 66 having upraised male rivet portions 
68 and a second plate-like member 70 having spaced apertures 72 with an 
interconnecting web portion 74 and wherein the fastening member 64 and in 
particular the connecting web portion 74 is formed of a bendable, 
deformable metal of high strength material so that the second plate-like 
portion 70 may be deformed into overlying relationship with regard to 
rivet studs 68 by the application of finger and thumb pressure for 
example, and thereafter the male stud portion 68 deformed with the end 
portions of the bracelet in proper sandwiched relationship into the 
secured position illustrated in FIG. 4b. An alternative form of securement 
member is shown in FIG. 4d wherein the securement member 64' has the first 
plate member 66' having the integral upraised rivet studs 68' and having 
interconnected on either side of the plate 66 web portions 73 with upper 
plate portions 75 to provide the same type of securement as the securement 
member 64 previously described. 
Referring to FIGS. 5a-5c inclusive, an identification device 71 is 
illustrated which is identical to that illustrated in FIG. 3c but 
differing in the aspect that an upper retaining plate such as 62 is not 
utilized. In all other respects, the bracelet 71 utilizes the securement 
means 56 where the male rivet members 60 are ultimately deformed into the 
secured position as shown in FIG. 5b but the rolled under portion being 
indirect contact with the upper surface of the bracelet end 48 as shown. 
Referring to FIGS. 6a through 6c inclusive, a similar identification device 
77 is illustrated like that shown in FIG. 3c but differing in that in this 
particular instance, the securement means is slightly changed. 
Herein, the securement means 74 employs a separate lower plate 76 identical 
to an upper plate 62 as utilized in the FIG. 3c embodiment and wherein 
non-integral male rivet portions 78 are utilized having annular cap 
portions 80 with integral upstanding male rivet portions 81, the use and 
placement in securement is identical to the securement device 56 
previously described with regard to FIGS. 3c and 5c. 
Referring now to FIGS. 7a-7c inclusive, an identification device or a 
bracelet 82 is illustrated which is identical in all respects to the 
identification devices previously described and differs only in the 
securement means and is most analogous to that depicted and described with 
regard to FIGS. 6a-6c inclusive. 
In this embodiment of the invention, the male stud members 78 alone are 
utilized, not having any type of load distribution means such as either of 
the plates 76 or 62 with regard to previously described embodiments of the 
invention. In this instance, the rivets 78 are crimped or rolled over as 
with a rivetting or crimping tool so that the outwardly flared flange 
portions 84 are in direct contact with the flexible band member making up 
the identification device 82. While not as strong as the previously 
described embodiments of the invention in that stress build up adjacent 
the flared sections 84 may develop, nonetheless, this embodiment provides 
a device which is tamper-resistant with regard to the end use to which it 
is to be put. 
The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8a-8c inclusive, illustrates an 
identification device 92 in this instance having a securement means 94 
fabricated of plastic material and of the self locking type wherein each 
of the fastener members 94 comprises a head portion 96 having a conically 
shaped male stud portion 98 with a female locking portion 100 connected by 
means of flexible web portion 102. Obviously, metal and /or plastic 
fasteners having alternative configurations may be utilized. In use each 
of the fastening members 94 are positioned as illustrated in FIGS. 8a 
through 8c inclusive, with the female portion 100 being moved to overlie 
the male portion 98 and forced upwardly or downwardly thereon into the 
locked position as illustrated in FIG. 8b. For ease of handling, the 
securement means may take an integral form such as the securement means 
104 illustrated in FIG. 8d which has a bottom plate member 106 with two 
spaced male stud members 108 with female locking portions 109 integrally 
connected to plate 106 by means of flexible web portions 110. In all 
instances except those pointed out, the function and securement of 
securement means 104 is similar to securement means 94 previously 
described. 
Referring to FIGS. 9a-9d inclusive, a differently configured identification 
device 112 is illustrated wherein the flexible band at its first end is 
provided with a tab. Herein the flexible band 114 is provided with an 
integral tab portion 116 having a juncture line 118 which allows the tab 
116 to be folded over the terminus of flexible band 114 as illustrated in 
FIG. 9a. 
In this particular instance, the fastening members 120 comprise metal snap 
fasteners having a male member 122 having an upstanding stud portion 124 
and head portion 126 having spaced barbs or prongs 128 which are bent over 
or otherwise deformed as by stapling once they have penetrated the 
material making up the flexible web of identification device 112. The 
female portion 130 of securement means 120 comprises a head portion 132 
having spaced barbs or prongs 134 and having a central female locking 
collar portion 136 which receives male stud 124 in self-locking fashion 
and which is not reversible so as to allow disengagement once the male 
stud portion 124 and female collar portion 136 have been brought into 
engagement. The securement means 120 as well as its attachment to the band 
may be any of those presently known in the prior art which have the 
self-locking feature that is permanent in form and inasmuch as no specific 
claim is laid to these securement means per se, no further description 
will be delved into. 
Suffice to say that in the identification device 112 when the elements of 
fastener member 120 have been properly positioned, as illustrated in FIG. 
9c, the tab portion 116 may be brought into overlying relationship of the 
one end of flexible band 114 once the proper positioning of the other end 
of the bracelet has been made with regard to the upstanding studs 124 of 
the male component of the fastener in a manner previously described. 
Referring now to FIGS. 10a-10d inclusive, an identical configured 
identification device 142 is illustrated which is the same in design and 
function as the identification device 112 with the exception of the 
particular securement means utilized. Herein, each of the securement means 
144 are of plastic material comprising a male portion 146 and female 
portion 148, the male portion 146 having upstanding studs 150 which are 
received in snap acting, self-locking nonreleasable fashion within the 
female portion 152 of female member 148. 
In each of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9a-9d and 10a-10d, the 
respective tabs of the identification devices 112 and 142 respectively may 
be provided with an annular aperture or hole 154 in order to accommodate 
in friction fit relationship the female portion of the respective 
securement means. Likewise, the terminus of the flexible band overlying 
the tab portions may also be provided with correspondingly aligned 
apertues or holes 156 so as to receive in friction fitting relationship 
the upstanding studs 124 or 150 of male components 122 and 146 
respectively. In the case of the FIG. 9a et seq. embodiment, the 
respective components of the securement means 120 are secured by means of 
the prongs or barbs as illustrated, whereas in the FIG. 10a embodiment, 
the components of the securement means 144 may be loosely positioned and 
retained by the friction fit with the respective apertures or holes, by 
the opposed annular flanges forming a retaining collar or alternately may 
be adhesively secured or, since the identification device 142 is of 
plastic, may be fusion bonded to the respective tab and end portions of 
the flexible band making up the identification device 142. Obviously, 
other fastener components, both metal and/or plastic having alternative 
configurations, means of attachment and function may be utilized in lieu 
of the specific fasteners described. 
Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, one means of imprinting with identifying 
indicia the flexible band of the identification devices of the invention 
is illustrated. While the straight line or non-tab embodiment is 
illustrated, it should be obvious that the same mode of application of 
indicia would apply regardless of the configuration of the flexible band 
making up the identification device. 
Herein, the sheet 172 comprises a plurality of flexible bands 174 each 
having a first end 176 and an opposed end 178 with an intermediate 
identification means area 180. The aperatures are positioned as has been 
previously described and each of the flexible bands 174 are fabricated in 
a manner so as to form a plurality of junctures 182 which is frangible in 
nature preferably formed by the conventional heat sealing technique so 
that the individual flexible bands 174 are separable from the sheet 172. 
The sheet 172 is provided with a blank terminal portion 184 which permits 
the sheet 172 to be fed by the leading edge 186 into a typewriter, for 
example, 188 or other imprinting device so that the individual indicia 
areas 180 may be imprinted upon by means, by example, of the typewriter 
elements, not shown, of typewriter 188. The width of the blank portion 184 
should be such that ample surface contact between the roller 190 of 
typewriter 188 and the adjacently positioned flexible bands 174 nearest 
the blank portion 184 is obtained and is frictionally secured in retained 
position within the feed roll 190 of typewriter 188 during the indicia 
imprinting process. The sheet form 172 need not necessarily be utilized in 
an imprinting device such as a typewriter, but may be utilized with any of 
the previously disclosed indicia means. In such event the sheet form 172 
need not utilized or have blank portion 184. However, the sheet form 
provides a facile mode of handling and storing the identification devices 
prior to individual separation of the flexible bands for use. 
In the form of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the sequence 
of utilization of the identification device would be to feed the sheet 
form 172 into the typewriter 188. The necessary identifying indicia would 
by typed directly onto the identification area 180 of the flexible band 
174 and the typed upon flexible band 174 removed from the remaining sheet 
and removed from the feed roll 190 of the typewriter 188. Adjacent the 
typed or imprinted indicia, a fingerprint of the individual who is to be 
identified would be placed on a portion of the identification area 180. A 
tamper-resistant, nondetachable tape segment may then be placed over the 
indicia and fingerprint and secured to the flexible band over the indica 
and fingerprint by either adhesive or heat sealing. A securement means, 
for example, taking the form of the dual eyelet illustrated, for example, 
in FIG. 6c would be placed in the one end of the identification device 
having the two spaced apertures while the other end having the rows of 
spaced apertures is put in encircling engagement of, for example, the 
wrist of a person to be identified, the alignment and placement onto the 
dual studs of the eyelet securement means made, the overplate or flange 
positioned and the eyelets or rivets crimped over into secured fashion as 
is illustrated in, for example, FIG. 6b and thereafter any excess 
remaining band, having the rows of apertures, cut off if of excessive 
length. After this procedure an inmate of a jail, for example, has been 
provided with tamper-resistant identification means which is of high 
strength, practically impossible to remove without destruction of the 
identification device and wherein any attempted alteration of either 
identifying indicia or fingerprint made all but impossible. 
As an example of the identification devices of this invention, particularly 
useful for high security risk uses such as found in police or penal 
environments, a flexible band of reinforced medical grade polyvinyl 
chloride sheet has been fabricated utilizing plasticizers so that the 
flexible band portion does not become brittle or deteriorate rapidly. The 
device is of high strength and when attached around an inmate's wrist, the 
force necessary to rupture the band is in excess of eighty pounds. In 
order to reduce corrosion or other undesirable side effects the securement 
means is ideally fabricated of aluminum. The flexible band of the 
identification devices of the invention are ideally about 11-1/2" long and 
about 1" wide. A device of these dimensions can accommodate a wrist 
perimeter smaller than 51/2" and is sufficient to accommodate a majority 
of wrist diameters normally found and may be of different colors for 
coding purposes to illustrate, for example, the particular seriousness of 
an offence with which the wearer has been charged or convicted of and 
provides, once adequately secured, a virtually tamper-resistant 
identification device which cannot be removed, modified or exchange 
without tell-tale evidence of same. To provide additional deterents to 
tampering, the plate 62, 76 or equivalent securement means components may 
be color anodized so that tool application will visually be perceptible. 
Any attempt to remove the identification device once positioned would 
entail the use of tools which are not readily available. Any forces 
applied by tools or other means will produce unmistakable deformations or 
striations in the band structure which are readily observable and which 
would signal any possible tampering. Manipulation of the securement means 
with tools would also be telltaling and indicate tampering especially 
where color anodizing is utilized. Because of the identification indicia 
and/or fingerprint and in particular, the utilization of an overlying 
tamper-resistant tape, any attempt to remove or exchange data with, for 
example, another prisoner, would be all but impossible without telltaling 
signs of such actions. Where an adhesive overlying tape is utilized to 
cover over the imprinted indicia and fingerprint, removal or attempted 
removal of the tape will leave portions of the underlying bracelet 
discolored because of solvents in the adhesive layer of the tape. 
Additionally, the tape may be provided with serrated or notched edges and 
have frangible portions to make total removal and replacement impossible. 
Thus, there has been provided an identification device which is 
tamper-resistant and which is utilized to securely and positively identify 
persons, things and objects in a facile manner utilizing one of a myriad 
of means to obtain identification. 
The identification devices of the invention have been described with some 
particularity but the specific designs and constructions disclosed are not 
to be taken as delimiting of the invention in that various, obvious 
modifications will at once make themselves apparent to those of ordinary 
skill in the art, all of which will not depart from the essence of the 
invention and all such changes and modifications are intended to be 
encompassed within the appended claims.