Abstract:
A security container for retaining an item of merchandise. The security container includes a base, a lid, a slider within the lid, a lid hole, a slider tab extending from the slider through the lid hole, and a locking mechanism. The slider tab is located proximate the hinged side of the lid. As a user positions a key to magnetically unlock the locking mechanism, a protrusion on the key simultaneously pushes the slider tab which unlocks internal L-shaped lock tabs from hook tabs. The slider tab is located on the hinged side of the lid for aesthetic as well as safety purposes. By hiding the security features, potential customers focus on the product within the box. Likewise, a casual thief observing from the front and sides of the container is presented with no immediate means for entry. Thus, the invention provides a more secure container for displaying upscale merchandise.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation application from and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/241,691, filed Sep. 30, 2008, entitled “Security Container with Rearward Facing Lock, and the teachings are incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Technical Field 
         [0003]    This invention generally relates to security devices. More particularly, the invention relates to a lockable storage container for holding an item of merchandise for sale. Specifically, the invention relates to a storage container which has a magnetic locking mechanism that secures the item of merchandise within the container; and which has an internal alarm system that will trigger a remote alarm if the container is brought into the vicinity of a security gate without first being disarmed. 
         [0004]    2. Background Information 
         [0005]    Various retail establishments use numerous types of theft deterrent devices and systems to discourage shoplifting. One common theft deterrent system uses electronic article surveillance tags (EAS tags) attached to the items of merchandise. These EAS tags are configured to activate an alarm at a security gate that is positioned usually at the exit of the establishment if the merchandise containing the EAS tag passes through the secured gate before being removed to be deactivated at a checkout station. 
         [0006]    Security storage containers are also known in the art. They are intended to securely lock merchandise in order to frustrate shoplifters. Known devices include six-sided boxes that receive items of merchandise, frames that surround portions of merchandise, and straps that pass through or around portions of merchandise. These devices are especially effective against impulse shoplifters. Although also somewhat effective against professional shoplifters, the professional shoplifter will eventually obtain a sample of the security storage container and determine a quick method for defeating the container. For instance, the shoplifter may develop a pick that opens the lock of the device. The shoplifter may also use a tool that breaks a portion of the device, rendering its security function useless. Once a shoplifter breaks a security device, the item of merchandise protected by the device may be separated from the device wherein the item of merchandise is no longer protected by the EAS tag. Therefore, there is need in the art for a secured container which substantially limits the possibility of defeating the internal security mechanism. 
         [0007]    Security devices may securely lock higher end or “upscale” merchandise, including expensive perfumes and watches. The aesthetic qualities of the security devise often detract from the merchandise inside. The security devises common in the prior art are “clunky” or have notches, holes, or other generally unpleasing aesthetic qualities. The keyholes, latches, or locks are often located at the front of the container and detract from the merchandise. 
         [0008]    Upscale retail establishments tend to forego the security and peace of mind of containing high end merchandise in typical security devises because it detracts from the prestige of the merchandise and store in general. Therefore, there is need in the art for a secured container which is aesthetically pleasing with minimal protrusions or other undesirable features readily visible to a customer. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    The invention provides a security storage container having a primary security feature that is adapted to be locked with pressure and unlocked with an appropriate key. The security storage container includes a secondary security feature that is activated when the security storage container passes through a secured gate, setting off an audible alarm. 
         [0010]    The primary security feature requires a proprietary magnetic key. The key uses powerful and spaced magnets which actuate metal fingers within the security container. Magnets actuate the metal fingers, which release a sliding locking mechanism, allowing the lid to be opened. One of the main features of the invention is to provide a locking mechanism on the lid for the container. The lid is formed from a single mold having five exposed externally facing sides. The five external sides are nondescript and homogeneous, except for the rearward facing side having an opening for a sliding tab. A tab hole is formed in the rearward facing side adjacent a hinge and is the only entry point into the container when the lid is closed and the storage container is in the locked configuration. 
         [0011]    A locking tab is formed with a first portion sized to slide into the tab hole, and a second portion sized to cover the area surrounding the tab hole. The tab is prevented from sliding when the lid is locked, and slides to release the lid when the magnetic key actuates the internal metal fingers. The tab hole and tab are located on the hinged side of the lid, opposite and spaced apart from the locking fingers and thus do not detract from the attractive appearance of the container. 
         [0012]    A thief attempting to access the security container is forced to explore the rearward facing side of the lid, and may attempt to penetrate the container by accessing the sliding tab opening. However, the sliding tab does not provide a lock-picking entry point, and the would-be thief cannot release the lid by using conventional or subtle means, thus is more likely to attract the attention of store employees. The internal metal fingers prevent a thief from using brute force to move the sliding tab as the metal fingers only release through magnetic manipulation. 
         [0013]    The invention portrays an impenetrable lid on a security container, with no visible means for entry. Attempts to remove the lid are severely frustrated by the nondescript nature of the lid, and rearward facing sliding lock. When the security container is secured at the base, a thief is further frustrated by having to reach around the container to meddle. The internal security mechanism requiring a magnetic key and the rearward facing sliding tab uniquely fortify this invention over the prior art. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0014]    A preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated of the best mode in which Applicant contemplates applying the principles, is set forth in the following description and is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims. 
           [0015]      FIG. 1  is a front elevational view of the security storage container of the present invention, with portions broken away; 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  is a partial right side view of the upper end of the storage container; 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  is a partial back side view of the upper end of the storage container; 
           [0018]      FIG. 4  is rear elevational view of the lid of the security storage container with the slider tab removed; 
           [0019]      FIG. 5  is a fragmentary top perspective view of the security container with the lid in the unlocked and open position; 
           [0020]      FIG. 6  is an exploded plan view of the lid and lid slider of the security container; 
           [0021]      FIG. 7  is an exploded plan view of the lid closure plate of the security container; 
           [0022]      FIG. 8  is a front partial cross-sectional view of the of the lid sidewall; 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the lid and lid slider in the locked position; 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  is a front fragmentary cross-sectional view of the lid and base in the locked position; 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  is a rear fragmentary elevational view of the lid being engaged by a magnetic key to unlock the locking mechanism; 
           [0026]      FIG. 12  is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the lid and lid slider with the locking fingers in the unlocked position; 
           [0027]      FIG. 13  is a fragmentary elevational view showing the magnetic key moving the slider tab to the unlocked position; 
           [0028]      FIG. 14  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lid and lid slider in the unlocked position; 
           [0029]      FIG. 15  is a front fragmentary cross-sectional view of the lid and base in the unlocked position; and 
           [0030]      FIG. 16  is a fragmentary right side elevational view of the security container with the lid opened and an item of merchandise being removed therefrom. 
       
    
    
       [0031]    Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0032]    The security storage container of the present invention is generally indicated at  1  and is shown in  FIGS. 1-16 . Storage container  1  is in the form of a six-sided box having a base  2  and a lid  4  that is connected to base  2  and is movable between open and closed positions. Base  2  is sized to receive an item of merchandise  6  and lid  4  cooperates with base  2  to surround and secure the item of merchandise within base  2  when lid  4  is in the closed and locked position. Base  2  has a paralleliped configuration with a spaced front wall  16  and a back wall  22 , and opposing left and right side walls  18  which extend upwardly and outwardly away from a bottom wall  20  and form an internal storage compartment  19  accessible through a top end  21 . Lid  4  preferably is pivotally mounted to base  2  by a hinge  12 . As will be hereinafter described, security storage container  1  also includes a locking mechanism, generally indicated at  15  ( FIG. 9 ), for securing lid  4  in a locked position on base  2  preventing the unauthorized removal of merchandise  6  from within base  2 . 
         [0033]    Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , lid  4  is pivotally connected to base  2  by hinges  12  which are rotatable about hinge-pins  12   a . Lid  4  closes top end  21  of base  2  when lid  4  is in the closed position and allows access to the internal storage compartment  19  of base  2  when lid  4  is in the open position. As shown in FIG.  7 , lid  4  includes a top cap  5 , a slider  28 , a slider tab  24 , and a bottom closure plate  63 . 
         [0034]    Top cap  5  is indicated generally in  FIG. 6 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , each opposing side wall  18  of base  2  includes a lip  66  which is received in a channel  64  in top cap  5  when lid  4  is in the closed position. Top cap  5  has a flat top wall  23 , homogeneous stepped front wall  25 , side walls  27 , and back wall  31 . Top cap  5  is locked to base  2  by any suitable locking mechanism including mechanically-actuated devices. However, an example of a suitable locking mechanism is the mechanism shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,194,879, published Mar. 27, 2007. The entire specification of U.S. Pat. No. 7,194,879 is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0035]    In accordance with the invention, lid  4  is locked to base  2  by a slider, indicated generally at  28 , which is slidably secured to an interior surface  5   a  of top cap  5 , and by locking mechanism  15  ( FIG. 9 ). Slider  28  is slidably secured to top cap  5  at the back by a fastener  33  ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ) which is received through a slot  30  formed in slider  28  and into a boss  32  formed on interior surface  5   a  of top cap  5  and at the front by lock tabs  44 , resting on the upper surfaces of tabs  46  on ledge  29 . Inner end  24   a  of slider tab  24  is inserted through openings  26  and  35  of back wall  31  of top cap  5  and slider  28  respectively. Inner end  24   a  of slider tab  24  is formed with a pair of outwardly protruding arms  54 . When fully inserted, outer ends of arms  54  engage inner ends of walls  55  formed on bottom side  28   a  of slider  28 . This engagement allows the movement of slider  28  by way of slider tab  24 . Slider  28  is selectively slidable relative to interior surface  5   a  of top cap  5  and is movable between locked and unlocked positions. Locking mechanism  15  includes a magnetically actuated metallic locking arm  34  that has two spring-biased movable fingers  36 . Arm  34  and fingers  36  are designed to engage a portion of slider  28  that includes angled pockets  38 . Pockets  38  are sized and shaped to receive fingers  36  therein and to prevent the withdrawal of the same therefrom unless fingers  36  are acted upon by magnets  70  of a magnetic key  68 . Locking mechanism  15  holds slider  28  in the locked position when locking mechanism  15  is in the locked position, i.e., when fingers  36  are retained within pockets  38 . Locking fingers  36  may be moved from the locked position ( FIG. 9 ) to an unlocked position ( FIG. 14 ) by using a key  68 . 
         [0036]    A retaining strip  58  ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ) is secured to slider  28  by way of slot  53  and stay  56 , and holds slider  28  in the unlocked position when locking mechanism  15  is in the unlocked position. When slider  28  is fully in the unlocked position, retaining strip  58  aligns with a notch  57  in interior surface  5   a  of top cap  5 . Tension in retaining strip  58  pushes a locking end  59  into notch  57 , whereby slider  28  is held in the open and unlocked position. The tension in retaining strip  58  is nominal. When outside pressure is applied to slider tab  24 , retaining strip  58  releases from notch  57  and slider may move towards the locked position. 
         [0037]    Referring to  FIGS. 11-14 , key  68  has magnets  70  disposed so as to align with fingers  36  on locking arm  34  when key  68  is correctly positioned on lid  4 . Magnets  70  attract fingers  36  toward them and, once fingers  36  are realigned with locking arm  34 , a protrusion  72  on key  68  pushes slider tab  24  which slides slider  28  back into the open position. It will be understood that locking mechanism  15  may be carried by either top cap  5  or slider  28  and may engage pockets  38  formed on the other of lid  4  and slider  28  depending on the particular design of locking mechanism  15 . 
         [0038]    Slider  28  includes a plurality of spaced L-shaped lock tabs  44  which are shown in  FIGS. 6 ,  10 , and  15 . Top cap  5  includes a plurality of spaced apart tabs  46  located on a ledge  29  extending inwardly from front wall  25 , which may be seen in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . Furthermore, the front wall  16  of base  2  includes a plurality of space-apart hook tabs  48  which extend upwardly and outwardly therefrom, which may be seen in  FIG. 5 . Each hook tab  48  includes a U-shaped slot that lies substantially parallel to the upper edge of front wall  16 . Tabs  48 ,  44 , and  46  are typically integrally fabricated with base  2 , slider  28  and top cap  5 , respectively. When slider  28  is secured to top cap  5 , the lower leg of each of the L-shaped lock tabs  44  abuts an upper surface of one of the tabs  46 . Hook tabs  48  and lock tabs  44  engage each other and disengage from each other when slider  28  is slidably moved between the locked and unlocked positions. When slider  28  is moved to lock lid  4  and base  2  together, the lower leg of each lock tab  44  slides along the upper surface of the associated tab  46  and into the U-shaped slot of the adjacent hook tab  48 . This interlocking of lock tabs  48  and  44  substantially prevents lid  4  from being pivoted from a closed position to an open position and container  1  is therefore locked. When slider  28  is moved in the opposite direction, the lower legs of lock tabs  44  slide out of the U-shaped slot of the associated hook tab  48 . Lid  4  is then in an unlocked state where it may be pivoted between a closed and an open position to allow access to the internal storage compartment in base  2 . 
         [0039]    Shown in  FIGS. 5 and 7 , bottom closure plate  63  is secured to inner bottom edge of top cap  5 , with slider  28  intermediate plate  63  and top cap  5 . Plate  63  includes a flat, generally smooth surface on one outwardly facing side  67  with a rib  69  formed thereon adjacent the back edge, and a plurality of ribs  62  reinforcing an opposite, inwardly facing side  65 . Plate  63  also includes a plurality of hook fasteners  60  extending outwardly away from inward side  65 . Each fastener  60  locks with a corresponding shoulder  61  ( FIG. 8 ) to secure plate  63  onto inner bottom edge of top cap  5 . In this way, the internal workings of storage container  1  are hidden from view which is aesthetically pleasing as well as an added measure of security. When lid  4  is in the closed position ( FIG. 9 ), rib  69  on side  67  of plate  63  extends below top edge  22   a  of back wall  22  of base  2  to block access into internal storage compartment  19 . 
         [0040]    Security storage container  1  is used in the following manner. Storage container  1  is adapted to receive items of merchandise  6  such as perfume or watches, or may be configured to hold other items of merchandise such as electronics, jewelry boxes, and the like. Base  2  is typically manufactured from a transparent, rigid, plastic material that allows the customer to view merchandise  6  held within storage container  1 . When locking mechanism  15  is in the unlocked position ( FIGS. 14 and 15 ) and held by retaining strip  58 , lid  4  may be opened to allow for the insertion of an item of merchandise into base  2 . Lid  4  is then rotated to close the open end of base  2 . The user then pushes finger slider tab  24  in the direction of arrow “A” ( FIG. 3 ), causing locking end  59  of retaining strip  58  to let loose from notch  57  and allow slider  28  to move in the direction of the arrow “A”. As previously described, this movement causes lock tabs  44  and hook tabs  48  to engage each other ( FIG. 10 ). As shown in  FIG. 9 , movement of slider  28  also causes fingers  36  of lock arm  34  to slide into position over pockets  38 . Fingers  36  are spring biased into alignment with the planar lock arm  34 . Consequently, when fingers  36  are disposed over pockets  38 , they spring out of alignment with arm  34  and become engaged in pockets  38 , thereby further locking lid  4  and base  2  together. 
         [0041]    Lid  4  includes top cap  5  with outwardly facing homogeneous sides and a flat top. Top cap  5  preferably is manufactured from an opaque material so that an observer cannot determine if an EAS tag or other alarm system is present within lid  4  and also cannot view the various components of the locking mechanism for securing storage container  1  in a closed and locked position. Top cap  5  on lid  4  is aesthetically pleasing, which allows it to be used in upscale retail establishments to display expensive merchandise. Located at the rear of container  1  as it faces away from potential customers, slider tab  24  offers the only entry point into locked container  1 . The locking mechanism  15  is on the same side as the hinge but concealed from view. Container  1  may be secured at the base to a display case, table, etc., by any typical means, further reducing access to a potential thief. 
         [0042]    If container  1  is brought within a certain preprogrammed range of a security gate at an entrance or exit of the protected environment, the EAS tag  50  will be triggered and thereby cause the security gates to sound a remote alarm. In order to prevent the alarm system from being triggered after the merchandise has been legally purchased by the customer, container  1  has to be disarmed by aligning key  68  with locking mechanism  15 . Key  68  is correctly aligned on container  1  by placing it on top wall  23  of top cap  5  in the same direction of arrow “C” abutting protrusions  72  ( FIG. 11 ) on key  68  onto edge  24   b  of slider tab  24  extending through back wall  31  of top cap  5 . This brings magnets  70  ( FIG. 12 ) on key  68  into proximity of fingers  36  on locking mechanism  15 . Shown in  FIG. 12 , fingers  36  are attracted toward magnets  70  and move in the same direction as arrows “B”, and are thereby withdrawn from pockets  38  and slider  28 . Slider tab  24  is then moved by key  68  in the same direction as arrows “D” and “E” in  FIG. 14 , thereby moving slider  28  in the same direction as the arrow “E” relative to lid  4 . The movement of slider  28  in the same direction as arrow “E” also causes lid  4  to be unlocked. Lid  4  can then be rotated into the open position, as shown in  FIG. 16 , and the item of merchandise may be removed from within base  2 . As an improvement over the prior art, one single fluid motion by the user with key  68  unlocks fingers  36  as well as slider  28 . Previous art required the user to hold or apply pressure to a tab or latch with one hand while sliding the key over the lid with the other hand. 
         [0043]    It will be understood that any type of EAS tag or RFID tag can be used in storage container  1 . 
         [0044]    In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. 
         [0045]    Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention is an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described.