Patent Publication Number: US-11391069-B2

Title: Security strap device and tool

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to a security strap device, in particular but not limited to, a security strap device is wrapped and locked around a person&#39;s wrist or leg. The present disclosure also relates to a tool for unlocking the security strap device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Security strap devices are commonly used in various products and in various security applications. Some examples of security strap device applications are for securing and tagging an object to a person or thing. For example, containers, luggage, monitoring units can be tagged to a person by using security strap devices. The purposes of such security strap devices are to lock an object to a person or thing such that the object is not removable. One example is to lock (i.e. tag) a monitoring unit to criminal&#39;s arms or ankles using a security strap device to monitor and track criminals on home detention or house arrest. Such security strap devices are required to be locked securely and safe from tampering or unlocking attempts. Several commonly used security strap devices can on some occasions be susceptible to picking the locks or tampering in order to remove the strap or compromise the strap. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to a security strap device, in particular but not limited to, a security strap device is wrapped and locked around a person&#39;s wrist or leg. The present disclosure also relates to a tool for unlocking the security strap device. 
     The security strap device disclosed herein is used for securing and tagging an object to a person or a thing. In one example the security strap device is used to lock a monitoring unit to a person in order to monitor movements of the person. The security strap device disclosed herein comprises a strap and a lock. The strap threaded through the lock and wrapped about a person or thing, and the strap is locked by the lock. The lock is advantageous because it securely locks the strap and is not easily unlocked. The tools described herein are unlocking pliers that are specifically configured to unlock the secure lock. 
     According to a first aspect the present disclosure relates to a security strap device comprising: 
     a strap; 
     a lock, the lock comprising a locking mechanism; 
     a fixed portion of the strap being secured inside the lock; 
     a free end of the strap insertable into the lock to form a loop in the strap, the lock is configured to lock a portion of the strap to form the loop in the strap, wherein; 
     the locking mechanism comprises a plurality of latches moveable between a locking position and an unlocking position; 
     the plurality of latches engaging one or more locking slots within the lock when in the locking position to the lock the strap within the lock; and 
     wherein the latches are all simultaneously biased toward the locked position and the latches are required to be simultaneously displaced to an unlocking position to unlock the strap. 
     In one configuration the locking mechanism comprises a plurality of biasing members positioned within the lock, the plurality of biasing members associated with the plurality of latches and wherein the biasing members bias the latches toward the locking position. 
     In one configuration the locking mechanism comprises four latches and two biasing members, each biasing member associated with two latches and each biasing member biasing two latches simultaneously to a locking position. 
     In one configuration the lock comprises a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member is attached to the second clamping member by a hinge that allows the first clamping member to pivot between a closed position and an open position relative to the second clamping member. 
     In one configuration in the closed position the first clamping member is located adjacent the second clamping member, the first clamping member and second clamping member clamping a portion of the strap, and the first clamping member being spaced away from the second clamping member when in the unlocked position such that the strap is freely moveable within the lock. 
     In one configuration the second clamping member comprising the one or more locking slots, wherein the plurality of latches engaging the one or more locking slots when the first clamping member is moved to a closed position and the strap being locked due to the first clamping member and second clamping member clamping the portion of the strap inserted into the lock. 
     In one configuration the second clamping member comprises: 
     a base, 
     a first wall and a second wall, the first and second walls upstanding from the base, the walls being spaced apart from each other and parallel to each other, 
     the base and the upstanding walls define a receptacle a portion of the strap being fixed within the receptacle, 
     a first locking slot formed in the first wall and a second locking slot formed within in the second wall and wherein the first locking slot and second locking slot are parallel to each other. 
     In one configuration each locking slot formed on an inner surface of the respective side wall of the second clamping member. 
     In one configuration the strap comprises: 
     a plurality of fixing teeth comprising a plurality of upper teeth located at and/or adjacent the fixed portion of the strap; 
     a plurality of locking teeth comprising a plurality of upper teeth and lower teeth at and/or adjacent the free end of the strap; 
     wherein the fixing teeth are spaced away from the locking teeth along the length of the strap. 
     In one configuration the first clamping member comprising a plurality of locking teeth extending from a base plate of the first clamping member, wherein the locking teeth from the base plate engaging the upper teeth of the plurality of locking teeth of the strap when the first clamping member is in the closed position. 
     In one configuration the fixed portion of the strap comprises a pair of attachment protrusions extending from a lower face of the fixed portion of the strap, the second clamping member comprising a pair of channels or apertures within the second clamping member, the fixed portion of the strap affixed in the second clamping member by fixing the pair of protrusions within the pair of channels or apertures. 
     In one configuration the lower teeth of the locking teeth engage the upper teeth of the fixing teeth when the free end of the strap is inserted into the lock to form a loop in the strap. 
     In one configuration at least six upper teeth of the fixing teeth engage with at least six lower teeth of the locking teeth to lock the strap and form a loop in the strap. 
     In one configuration the first clamping member comprises at least six teeth that engage at least six upper teeth of the locking teeth when the first clamping member is positioned in the closed position. 
     In one configuration each latch comprises a body, a locking tab extending from the body, a pair of legs extending from the body in an opposing direction to the locking tab, and wherein the pair of legs are spaced from each other and define a passage. 
     In one configuration the biasing member is positioned within the passage such that the biasing member can act on the body to bias each latch to a locking position. 
     In one configuration the lock comprises four latches, two biasing members, each of the latches and biasing members located within the first clamping member, two latches extending out from a side wall of the first clamping member and two other latches extending from an opposing side wall of the first clamping member. 
     In one configuration the four latches are arranged in pairs, each pair of latches is arranged such that the latches extend to a locked position in opposing directions, and each biasing member is positioned to act on each pair of latches and bias them away from each other. 
     In one configuration the second clamping member comprises a plurality of pin holes, each pin hole is aligned with the locking slot. 
     In one configuration the each of the pin holes aligns with a latch such that an unlocking tool can be used to push the latches via the pin holes to an unlocked position to unlock the lock. 
     In one configuration the unlocking tool comprises: 
     a first arm and a second arm, 
     a handle defined at one end of each arm, 
     an unlocking feature located at or adjacent an end of the arm opposite to the handle, 
     a pivot coupling the first arm to the second arm, 
     the handles being moved in apart from each other causing the first and second arm to move about the pivot, thereby causing the unlocking feature at the end of each arm to push the latches simultaneously from a locked position to an unlocked position. 
     In one configuration each arm comprises two unlocking features located at the end opposite to the handle. 
     In one configuration the unlocking feature is a pin, each arm comprises two pins that are spaced from each other, the pins are spaced apart to align with the latches when the unlocking tool is positioned on the lock. 
     In one configuration the unlocking tool comprises a lower housing, the lower housing including a plurality of unlocking features and in use, the handles moving away from each other cause the end of the first arm and the end of the second arm to move toward each other and push the unlocking features toward each other. 
     In one configuration the lower housing is a U shaped housing, the housing comprises a pair of free ends, the housing accommodating two pins at each free end, a first arm positioned inside one free end of the housing and the second arm position in the opposing end of the housing, the arms moveable within the housing to push on a cam surface of the pins to simultaneously push the pins toward each other. 
     In one configuration, in use, the handles are moved away from each other causing the ends of the arms inside the housing to move in toward each other to simultaneously push the pins toward each other out of the housing, the pins being pushed out of the housing cause the latches to be pushed to an unlocked position. 
     According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a security device and an unlocking tool comprising: 
     a security device comprising: 
     a strap; 
     a lock, the lock comprising a locking mechanism; 
     a fixed portion of the strap being secured inside the lock; 
     a free end of the strap insertable into the lock to form a loop in the strap, the lock is configured to lock a portion of the strap to form the loop in the strap, wherein; 
     the locking mechanism comprises a plurality of latches moveable between a locking position and an unlocking position; 
     the plurality of latches engaging one or more locking slots within the lock when in the locking position to the lock the strap within the lock; and 
     wherein the latches are all simultaneously biased toward the locked position and the latches are required to be simultaneously displaced to an unlocking position to unlock the strap, 
     the unlocking tool comprising: 
     a first arm and a second arm, 
     a handle defined at one end of each arm, 
     a plurality of unlocking pins located at or adjacent an end of the arm opposite to the handle, 
     a pivot coupling the first arm to the second arm such that the first arm can pivot relative to the second arm when the handles are moved, 
     in use, the unlock tool being positioned such that one unlocking pin aligns with each latch, and; 
     the handles being moved in a first direction to pivot the first arm relative to the second arm, thereby causing each unlocking pin to push the latches simultaneously from a locked position to an unlocked position thereby unlocking the lock to allow the strap to move. 
     Features from one or more embodiments or configurations described herein may be combined with features of one or more other embodiments or configurations. Additionally, more than one described embodiment or configuration or form may be used together during a process of respiratory support of a patient. 
     It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner. 
     It should be understood that alternative embodiments or configurations may comprise any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features illustrated, described or referred to in this specification. 
     Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. 
     As used herein the term ‘and/or’ means ‘and’ or ‘or’, or where the context allows both. 
     In the following description like numbers denote like features. 
     As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun. 
     In this specification, the word “comprising” and its variations, such as “comprises”, has its usual meaning in accordance with International patent practice. That is, the word does not preclude additional or unrecited elements, substances or method steps, in addition to those specifically recited. Thus, the described apparatus, substance or method may have other elements, substances or steps in various embodiments. The term “comprising” (and its grammatical variations) as used herein are used in the inclusive sense of “having” or “including” and not in the sense of “consisting only of”. 
     Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present disclosure, one or more embodiments of a seat apparatus will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows an example of a security strap device and an unlocking tool. 
         FIG. 2  and  FIG. 3  illustrate the security strap device and the lock. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an internal view of the first clamping member and the locking mechanism of the lock. 
         FIG. 5  to  FIG. 7  illustrates the locking mechanism in use. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates the unlocking tool. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cross section of the unlocking tool. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates internal details of the unlocking tool. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present disclosure relates to a security strap device, in particular but not limited to, a security strap device is wrapped and locked around a person&#39;s wrist or leg. The present disclosure also relates to a tool for unlocking the security strap device. 
     The security strap device is configured to lock the strap about a persons limb e.g. wrist or leg by creating a loop of the strap. The security strap device provides a locking system that comprises a plurality of latches that are all simultaneously biased toward the locked position. The latches being simultaneously biased to a locked position makes the security strap device difficult to remove. The security strap device is also advantageous because it is substantially tamper proof because the latches are covered within a clamping member and the latches are all simultaneously biased to a locked position. 
     A specifically designed unlocking tool is required for use with the security strap device. The unlocking tool is designed to have unlocking features that simultaneously unlock the latches i.e. simultaneously move the latches from a locked position to the unlocked position to allow unlocking and removal of the security strap device. The unlocking tool can be provided to authorised personnel e.g. parole officers, police officers, or other law enforcement officers. 
       FIG. 1  shows an example embodiment of the security strap device  10  and an unlocking tool  300 . The security strap device  10  includes a lock  200 . The unlocking tool  300  is positioned around the lock and used to unlock the lock  200 . 
       FIGS. 2 and 3  show an example embodiment of the security strap device  10 . The security strap device  10  comprises a strap  100 , a lock  200 , the lock comprises a locking mechanism  210 . The strap  100  comprises a fixed portion of the strap  104  that is secured inside the lock  200 . A free end  102  of the strap is insertable into the lock  200  to form a loop in the strap  100 . The lock  200  is configured to lock a portion of the strap  100  to form the loop in the strap around a limb of a person. 
     The locking mechanism  210  comprises a plurality of latches moveable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The plurality of latches engaging one or more locking slots within the lock  200  when in the locking position to the lock the strap  100  within the lock  200 . The latches are all simultaneously biased toward the locked position and the latches are required to be simultaneously displaced to an unlocking position to unlock the strap  100 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the strap  100  comprises a free end  102  and a fixed portion  104 . The fixed portion  104  is fixed inside the lock  200 . The free end  102  is looped around a person&#39;s limb and then inserted through the lock, as shown in  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 3 . The free end  102  is inserted and laid on top of the fixed portion to create a loop in the strap  100 . 
     The strap  100  comprises a plurality of teeth  110  extending outwardly from the strap. The strap comprises a plurality upper teeth  110   a  extending from an upper surface of the strap and a plurality of lower teeth  110   b  extending from a lower surface of the strap. The upper teeth  110   a  extend in an opposing direction the lower teeth  110   b.    
     The strap further comprises a plurality of fixing teeth  110   c  located at the fixed portion  104  of the strap. The fixing teeth  110   c  extend upwardly from a surface of the fixed portion of the strap  104 . The strap comprises a plurality of locking teeth  112 ,  114  that are formed at and/or adjacent the free end. A region of the strap adjacent the free end comprises a plurality of upper teeth and lower teeth that define the locking teeth  112 ,  114 . The fixing teeth  110   c  are spaced away from the locking teeth  112 ,  114  along the strap. 
     The fixed portion  104  of the strap comprises a pair of attachment protrusions  106  that extend from a lower face of the fixed portion of the strap. The attachment protrusions  106  engage the lock to fix the strap in the lock  200 . 
     The lock  200  comprises a first clamping member  202  and a second clamping member  204 . The first clamping member  202  is pivotable relative to the second clamping member  204 . The first clamping member  202  is attached to the second clamping member  204  by a hinge  212 . The hinge allows the first clamping member  202  to pivot from a locked position as shown in  FIG. 3  to an unlocked position as shown in  FIG. 2 . In the unlocked position the first clamping member  202  is spaced away from the second clamping member  204 . 
     In use, the free end of the strap  102  is threaded through an opening  209  in the lock  200 . The opening is defined by the space at the hinge  212  between the first clamping member  202  and the second clamping member  204 . The lock  200  also comprises an opening at the opposing end  209   a . The openings  209 ,  209   a  are aligned. The free end of the strap  102  is passed through both openings to create a loop in the strap. 
     The second clamping member  204  comprises a base  205  and two upstanding walls  206 ,  208 . The upstanding walls  206 ,  208  extend upwardly from the base  205 . The base  205  and the walls  206 ,  208  define a receptacle to receive and fix the fixed portion  104  of the strap. Each upstanding wall  206 ,  208  each comprise a locking slot  260 ,  262 . A first locking slot  260  is formed within the wall  206  and a second locking slot  262  is formed in the wall  208 . In the example embodiment each upstanding wall  206 ,  208  comprise a single locking slot  260 ,  262  formed in the wall. The locking slots  260 ,  262  are a horizontal slot formed in the upstanding wall. The slots  260 ,  262  may be identical to each other in shape and dimensions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the base  205  of the second clamping member  204  comprises a pair of channels that receive the attachment protrusions  106  that extend from a lower face of the fixed portion  104  of the strap  100 . The attachment protrusions  106  are engaged as a friction fit or may be glued in or may be welded into the second clamping member  204 . The fixed portion of the strap may be removable or may be permanently fixed to fasten the lock  200  to the strap  100 . 
     The first clamping member  202  comprises a locking mechanism  210  disposed within the first clamping member  202 . The first clamping member  202  defines a casing and comprises a base plate  214 . The base plate  214  comprises a plurality of locking teeth  216  that extend outwardly from the base plate  214 . The locking teeth  216  engage the upper teeth  112  of the strap. As seen from  FIGS. 2 and 3  each of the clamping members  202 ,  204  define a hollow casing that houses different components. The second member  204  has an open top to receive the strap. 
     In use, the free end of the strap  102  is threaded through the lock  200  as shown in  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 3 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the lower locking teeth  114  engage the fixed teeth  110   c . The first clamping member  202  is closed i.e. moved to a locked position to lock the strap in the lock. The locking teeth  216  of the first clamping member  202  engage the upper teeth  112  of the strap when the first clamping member is closed. The locking teeth  216  engage between the gaps between adjacent teeth on the strap. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3  the first clamping member  202  comprises six locking teeth  216 . The six locking teeth  216  engage six corresponding upper teeth  112  of the strap. Six lower teeth  114  engage six fixing teeth  110   c . A total of 12 strap teeth i.e. six upper teeth  112  and six lower teeth  114  are engaged when the first clamping member is moved to a closed position. The friction between the twelve total engaged teeth provides a substantial locking force. The twelve teeth absorb loading on the strap e.g. pulling loads, push loads as well as torsion loads, thus securing the strap and preventing a user from being able to remove the strap. When the first clamping member is in the unlocked position i.e. spaced away from the second clamping member  204 , the free end of the strap can be pulled since only six teeth i.e. the lower teeth engage the fixing teeth. The force from six teeth can be overcome by a pulling force from a user to adjust the length of the strap i.e. adjust the size of the loop of the strap to fit various limbs or various users. The current security strap device is advantageous because when the lock is locked i.e. the strap is clamped within the first and second clamping members, at least twelve teeth of the strap are engaged. Six teeth adjacent the free end are engaged on both the top and bottom i.e. both sets of teeth are engaged thereby increasing the friction between the strap teeth and the locking teeth and fixing teeth. This increased friction secures the strap and reduces the chances of the strap being pulled to loosen the strap. 
     The first clamping member  202  is required to be held in the locked position to secure the strap  100  in the lock  200  and prevent someone from loosening the strap. The first clamping member  202  is held in the locked position by the locking mechanism  210 . 
       FIGS. 4 to 7  illustrate details of the locking mechanism  210 . The locking mechanism  210  comprises a plurality of latches that are simultaneously biased toward a locking position. As shown in  FIGS. 4 to 7 , the locking mechanism  210  comprises four latches  220 ,  221 ,  222 ,  223 . Alternatively, the locking mechanism  210  may comprise six or more latches. Preferably the locking mechanism  210  comprises an even number of latches. Preferably the locking mechanism comprises four or more latches since two latches are easier to unlock. 
     The latches  220 - 223  engage the locking slots  250  in the second clamping member  204 . The latches  220 - 223  are disposed inside the casing formed by the first clamping member  202 . Each latch is substantially similar in construction. Each latch comprises a body and a pair of legs. The legs are spaced apart from each other and define a passage. The locking mechanism  210  further comprises a plurality of biasing member configured to bias the latches to a locking position. The biasing members are arranged to simultaneously bias the latches to a locking position. Each latch comprises a locking tab that extends from the body in an opposing direction to the legs. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4  each latch comprises a body  230 . The first latch  220  comprises a pair of legs  233  that extend parallel to each other from the body  230 . The second latch  221  comprises a pair legs  234  that extend parallel to each other from the body  230  of the latch  221 . The third latch  222  comprises a pair of legs  235  that extend parallel to each other from the body  230 . The fourth latch  223  comprises a pair of legs  236  that extend parallel to each other from the body  230 . The legs of each latch define a passage  232  between the legs. 
     The latches  220 - 223  are arranged in pairs. The first latch  220  is positioned opposite the third latch  222  and the second latch  221  is positioned opposite the fourth latch  223 . The passage  232  extends between the legs of each pair of latches. The legs  235  of the third latch are nested within the legs of  233  of the first latch  220 . The legs  236  of the fourth latch  223  are nested inside the legs  234  of the second latch  221 . The first latch  220  and second latch  221  are substantially identical to each other in shape. The third latch  222  and fourth latch  223  are substantially identical to each other in shape. 
     The first latch  220  and second latch  221  each comprise a slot  239  formed in the body. The slot is formed in an opposing direction to the extension of the legs. The slot  239  formed in the first latch and the second latch are substantially identical to each other. The slot  239  of the first latch  220  and the legs  235  of the third latch define the passage  232 . The slot  239  of the second latch  221  and the legs  236  of the fourth latch  223  define the passage  232 . The latches each comprises a portion that extends out of the casing of the first clamping member  202 . The passage defined by the legs of the latches and the slots  239  constrain the linear motion of the biasing members  240 ,  242 . The passages  232  and the slots  239  ensure the biasing member linearly biases the latches away from each other. The portion that extends out functions as a locking tab and is received within and engages the locking slots  260 ,  262  within the second clamping member  204 . 
     The latching mechanism further comprises a plurality of biasing members that simultaneously bias the latches to a locking position. As shown in the illustrated embodiment the latching mechanism  210  comprises two biasing member  240 ,  242 . The biasing members  240 ,  242  are coil springs. Preferably the springs  240 ,  242  are compression springs i.e. they are supposed to be compressed in use, but are biased toward a rest position. The biasing member  240  is positioned between the first latch  220  and the third latch  222 . The biasing member  242  is positioned between the second latch  221  and the fourth latch  223 . The first biasing member  240  simultaneously biases the first latch  220  and the third latch  222  to a locking position, as shown in  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5 . The second biasing member  242  simultaneously biases the second latch  221  and the fourth latch  223  to a locking position as shown in  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5 . 
     The biasing members  240 ,  242  are identical to each other in size, shape and spring constant. The biasing members bias the latches away from each other i.e. the biasing members provide a pushing force to push the pair of latches away from each other. The first latch  220  and the third latch  222  are pushed away from each other to a locking position. The second latch  221  and the fourth latch  223  are pushed away from each other to a locking position. The biasing members  240 ,  242  are configured to providing a biasing force that is linear along the biasing member. The biasing members bias outward i.e. push the latches within each pair of latches away from each other. For example, the biasing member  240  biases the first latch  220  away from the third latch  222 . The second biasing member biases the second latch  221  away from the fourth latch  223 . 
     The first clamping member  202  comprises a partition wall  250  that defines a first receptacle  252  on each side of the partition  250  and a second receptacle  254  on the other side of the partition  250 . Each receptacle  252 ,  254  is identical to each other. Each receptacle receives a pair of latches and a biasing member. As shown in  FIG. 5 , one receptacle  252  houses the first latch  220 , third latch  222  and the first biasing member  240 . The second receptacle  254  houses the second latch  221  and the fourth latch  223  and the second biasing member  242 . 
     The first latch and third latch each comprise a flange  238  extending outwardly from the body. The second and fourth latch each comprise a flange  237  extending outwardly from the body. The flange  238  on the first and third latch  220 ,  222  contacts with a wall of the receptacle  252 . The flange  238  constrains the motion the first and third latch in the receptacle  252 . The flange  238  assists in the latches moving in a linear manner. The latch  239  of the second and fourth latch contacts a wall of the second receptacle  254  and constrains the motion of the second and fourth latches. The flange  237  of the second and fourth latches helps these latches to move in a linear manner within the receptacles. The first and third latches  220 ,  222 , may comprise a chamfered portion in the locking tab to allow the tab to be accommodated within the second clamping member  204 . 
       FIGS. 5 to 7  illustrate the locking mechanism in use.  FIG. 5  illustrates the locking mechanism  210  with the latches  220 - 223  in the locking position.  FIG. 6  illustrates the latches  220 - 223  being moved to an unlocking position.  FIG. 7  shows the latches  220 - 223  in an unlocking position. Referring to  FIG. 5 , a portion of each latch  220 - 223  extends out of the first clamping member  202 . The portion that extends functions as a locking tab. The latches  220 - 223  extend out and are received into the locking slots  260 ,  262 . The locking slots  260 ,  262  are dimensioned to lock the first clamping member to the second clamping member by housing the latches. The slots  260 ,  262  are sized and dimensioned to prevent vertical, horizontal or twisting of the first clamping member  202  relative to the second clamping member  204 . The latches  220 - 223  hit one of the walls of the locking slot if the lock is tampered with when the first clamping member  202  is in the closed position. 
     The latches  220 - 223  are simultaneously biased to the locking position i.e. biased to extend out of the first clamping member. The latches  220 - 223  are required to be simultaneously moved to an unlocking position. If one or two latches are moved, the other latches remain engaged in the locking slot. For example, if the first latch  220  is pushed out of the locking slot, the third latch  222  will be pushed further into its locking slot, and the second and fourth latches  221 ,  223  remain engaged in their respective locking slots. This simultaneous locking and simultaneous bias toward the locking position is advantageous because the lock  200  securely locks and cannot be unlocked easily. 
     The biasing members  240 ,  242  float within the first clamping member  202 . Each biasing member  240 ,  242  acts to simultaneously bias the latches to the locking positions. The four latches  220 - 223  with two biasing members  240 ,  242  acting on each pair of latches to simultaneously bias them to a closed position makes the lock difficult and challenging to unlock. The four latches are arranged in pairs with a single spring biasing each of the latches in a pair to a closed position makes the lock difficult to unlock. This is because the latches have to all be simultaneously unlocked rather than unlocking one or two latches at a time. 
     The second clamping member  204  comprises four pin holes  270 ,  271 ,  272 ,  273 . Each pin hole aligns with one of the latches  220 - 223 . Two pin holes  270 ,  271  are formed in the first upstanding wall  206  and two pin holes  272 ,  273  are formed in the second upstanding wall  208 . The pin holes  270 - 273  open into the locking slots  260 ,  262 . Unlocking pins can be inserted through the pin holes  270 - 273  to push the latches out of the locking slot to unlock the lock. 
       FIG. 6  shows four  320 ,  321 ,  322 ,  323  ( 320 - 323 ) acting on the latches to simultaneously push the latches  220 - 223  out of the locking slots  260 ,  262 . The latches  220 - 223  are pushed to an unlocking position simultaneously by the pins  320 - 323 . The unlocking position is the position shown in  FIG. 7  where the latches are fully within the first clamping member  202 . The latches  220 - 223  being pushed toward each other i.e. out of the locking slots  260 ,  262  causes the biasing members  240 ,  242  to compress. 
       FIG. 7  shows the pins  320 - 323  acting on the latches simultaneously to unlock the latches and unlock the first clamping member  202  from the second clamping member  204 . The first clamping member  202  being unlocked causes the lock  200  to be unlocked such that the first clamping member  202  can be pivoted away from the second clamping member  204 . The lock  200  being unlocked i.e. the first clamping member  202  being pivoted away allows a user to withdraw the free end of the strap  102  from the lock  200  and remove the security strap device  10  from a user. As shown in  FIG. 7 , the latches  220 - 223  are pushed completely into the first clamping member  202  i.e. completely out of the locking slots  250 ,  252  by the pins  320 - 323 . 
     The lock  200  can only be unlocked by a specifically designed unlocking tool. The unlocking tool is used with the security strap device  10  to unlock it.  FIGS. 8 to 10  illustrate an example embodiment of an unlocking tool  300 .  FIG. 1  shows the unlocking tool  300  placed in an operative position. The unlocking tool  300  is placed about the lock  200 . The unlocking tool  300  is actuated to unlock the lock  200  and allow removal of the strap. The unlocking tool  300  should be used by an authorised person. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8 to 10 , the unlocking tool comprises a first arm  302  and a second arm  304 . The first arm  302  and second arm  304  are coupled together by a pivot  306 . The pivot  306  is a joint. The pivot  306  in the illustrated embodiment is a pin. However, the pivot may comprise a screw, multiple pins or any other suitable joint. The first arm  302  and second arm  304  can move relative to each other about the pivot  306  (i.e. joint). The unlocking tool  300  comprises a first handle  310  defined at one end of the first arm  302 . The unlocking tool  300  comprises a second handle  312  defined at one end of the second arm  304 . The first arm  302  and second arm  304  are curved. 
     The unlocking tool  300  comprises a spring  308 . The spring  308  is a linear spring that biases the handles to a rest position when the handles are moved apart from each other. The spring  308  may be some other biasing member that is configured to bias the handles  310 ,  312  to a rest position. The spring  308  helps to provide a consistent and symmetrical force when a user moves the handles apart. 
     The unlocking tool comprises a lower housing  314 . The lower housing  314  is a U shaped housing. The housing  314  is arranged to be in an upside down U orientation. The housing  314  comprises a plurality of unlocking features  320 - 323 . The lower housing  314  preferably four unlocking features  320 - 323 . The unlocking features are preferably pins  320 - 323 . The pins  320 - 323  are moveable out of the housing  314  to bear against the latches  220 - 223  to unlock the lock  200 . The arms  302 ,  304  and pivot  306  function like a plier mechanism that provides a symmetrical force onto the pins  320 - 323  to ensure the pins extend out of the housing  314  evenly and at the same rate. 
       FIG. 9  shows a cross section of the unlocking tool  300  and the internal view of the housing  314 . Each arm  302 ,  304  comprises an actuation end  340 ,  342  respectively. The actuation ends of the arm are positioned in the housing  314 . The unlocking features  320 - 323  comprise pins. Each pin comprises a cam surface  330  and a point  332 . The pins  320 - 323  are identical to each other in size and shape. Each arm comprises a guide passage  334  formed at the end of the where the pins are located. Preferably each arm comprises two pins and each arm comprises a guide passage  334  for each pin to move through. The guide passage ensures the pin moves outward from the housing  314  in a linear direction. The guide passage is a narrow aperture with a cylindrical passage that is dimensioned to guide the movement of the pin in a linear fashion. Preferably the guide passage  334  for each pin is shaped and dimensioned to ensure each pin moves in a perfectly straight orientation and the pins all move parallel to each other. The pins are also simultaneously moved outward due to an actuation end of each arm  340 ,  342  acting on the cam surface  330  of each pin. The cam surface  330  causes any rotational movement from actuation end of each arm to be translated into a linear movement of each pin  320 - 323 . The actuation ends  340 ,  342  (i.e. free ends of the arms) push the pins  320 - 323  out of the housing  314 . 
       FIG. 10  shows illustrate further details of the housing  314 . The housing comprises a pair of screws  350 ,  352 . The screws adjust and control the limit each pin extends. The housing  314  may comprise four screws i.e. a screw for each pin. The screw can be adjusted by a screw driver or a separate customised tool. 
     The unlocking tool  300  is used to unlock the lock and allow the strap  100  to be removed. The unlocking tool  300  is used by a user pulling the handles  310 ,  312  apart as per the arrows shown in  FIG. 8 . The handles  310 ,  312  being pulled apart causes actuation ends  340 ,  342  to move toward each other within the housing  314 . This causes the pins  320 - 323  to be pushed out simultaneously, at the same rate and the same distance as each other. The pins  320 - 326  extend through the pin holes  270 - 273  to push the latches  220 - 223  out of the locking slots  250 ,  252  to an unlocking position, simultaneously at the same rate. This unlocks the lock  200 . 
     In an alternative embodiment each arm  302 ,  304  comprises an unlocking feature formed at the end of the arm opposite the handle. The handles  302 ,  304  are moved apart from each other, thereby causing the unlocking feature at the end of each arm to push the latches simultaneously from a locking position to an unlocking position. In one configuration each arm comprises two unlocking features located at the end opposite to the handle. The unlocking feature may be a pin. In this alternative configuration each arm comprises a pair of pins located at the end of the arm opposing the handles. Each of the two pins at the end of each arm are spaced from each other. The pins are spaced apart to align with the latches when the unlocking tool is positioned on the lock. The four pins i.e. two pins at the end of each arm are dimensioned and positioned such that when the unlocking tool is placed about the lock, moving the handles away from each other causes the pins to push on the latches to move the latches to an unlocking position to unlock the lock  200 . 
     The security strap device  10  disclosed herein is advantageous because the lock cannot be easily tampered or unlocked. The lock  200  comprises a locking mechanism that comprises a locking mechanism that includes four latches (or more) that are biased by biasing members. The biasing members simultaneously bias the latches  220 - 223  to a locked position. A biasing member simultaneously acts on two latches simultaneously and floats between the two latches. This makes for a self locking mechanism i.e. if one latch is pushed the opposite latch is pushed to further lock the lock. The locking mechanism comprises four independent latches that are simultaneously biased to a locking position making the lock  200  difficult to pick or remove. The unlocking tool  300  allows an authorised user to unlock the lock by simultaneously moving the latches to an unlocked position. 
     The security strap device  10  as described herein can be used to mount a monitoring bracelet on a criminal such that the criminal can be monitored in a home detention situation. Alternatively, the security device may be used on baggage or other items that need to be secured. As a further alternative the security device  10  may be used on a secure witness e.g. a key court witness to securely monitor the witness. The security device  10  may be used on any other item or person where security is necessary. 
     The foregoing describes some example embodiment (or embodiments) of the present invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art, can be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the invention has been described with reference to the example embodiments it should be appreciated that the invention can be embodied in many other forms. 
     Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world. 
     Although the present disclosure has been described in terms of certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For instance, various components may be repositioned as desired. Features from any of the described embodiments may be combined with each other and/or an apparatus may comprise one, more, or all of the features of the above described embodiments. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow. 
     The various configurations or embodiments described are exemplary configurations only. Any one or more features from any of the configurations may be used in combination with any one or more features from any of the other configurations.