Patent Publication Number: US-2017360169-A1

Title: Key locator with remote tracking

Description:
The present disclosure relates to locators and tracking devices, and in particular to locators adapted to facilitate the ready location of items in a purse, backpack, briefcase or like bag, and for tracking devices for remotely tracking and locating such personal items. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/866,201, filed Sep. 25, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 14/460,936, filed Aug. 15, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/759,979, filed Feb. 5, 2013, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/073,789, filed on Mar. 28, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,131,758, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/468,012, filed on May 18, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,672,002, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/977,891, filed on Oct. 26, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,537,032, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/919,494, filed on Aug. 17, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,308,922, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Key locators are known and have been described in great detail in Applicant&#39;s previous patents listed above. Exemplary key locators are currently being sold and are available at Applicant&#39;s website at www.finderskeypurse.com. 
     Bluetooth 
     Bluetooth is a low-power wireless connectivity technology used to stream audio, transfer data and broadcast information between devices. Bluetooth operates in the 2400-2483.5 MHz range within the ISM 2.4 GHz frequency band. Data is split into packets and exchanged through one of 79 designated Bluetooth channels (each of which have 1 MHz in bandwidth). Bluetooth Low Energy (also known as Bluetooth 4.0, Bluetooth LE or BLE) enables short-burst wireless connections and uses multiple network topologies, including point-to-point, broadcast and mesh. Devices that don&#39;t need to send data constantly or that only need to send small bits of data can operate with very low power consumption. Most modern smart phones are Bluetooth LE compatible. 
     Smart Tag Tracking Devices 
     A smart tag tracking device is a type of Bluetooth LE tracking device that has become popular in recent years. There are several companies making smart tag tracking devices. For example, smart tag tracking device  500  ( FIG. 13 ) can be purchased from Tile, Inc. with offices in San Mateo, Calif. Also, smart tag tracking device  501  ( FIG. 14 ) may be purchased from TrackR, Inc. with offices in Santa Barbara, Calif. The smart tag tracking device can be attached to an item that a user does not wish to lose or misplace and the tracking device will communicate with the user via the user&#39;s smart phone utilizing radio waves (such as Bluetooth LE). In addition to purchasing the smart tag tracking device, the user also downloads a software app onto his smart phone. The app allows the user to communicate with the smart tag tracking device and to keep track of the item&#39;s location. Each tracking device can last for approximately one year without having to recharge the tracking device&#39;s battery while utilizing Bluetooth LE. 
     For example, it is common to attach a smart tag tracking device to a keychain.  FIG. 15  shows a set of keys attached to tracking device  500 . The user can then track the location of the keychain from his smart phone. Or a user may place a tracking device inside his wallet. If the user misplaces his wallet he can locate the wallet via his smart phone. A user may also leave a smart tag in his car when the car is parked in the parking lot. The app on the user&#39;s smart phone will interface with the smart tag to keep track of the car&#39;s location, so that the user can be guided back to the smart tag left in the car. Also, smart tag tracking devices are commonly attached to other items. For example, a smart tag may be placed in a laptop or a purse. 
     User&#39;s may configure the software app to play an alarm on the smart phone if the tracked object starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert if the user leaves the object behind or someone is stealing it. 
     Through Bluetooth LE, the tracking device can stay in near constant communication with the user&#39;s smart phone. It is then easy for the phone (when paired with the appropriate software from the tracker vendor) to sound the alarm when the user becomes separated from tracker and the object it&#39;s attached to. Based on the particulars of Bluetooth tracker utilized and the accompanying software, the tracking device can chirp when the user needs to locate the misplaced or lost item, thereby alerting the user when he has strayed too far from the tracking device. The app can also remind the user where the item was last seen. 
     It is also possible to use the Bluetooth tracking system in reverse. For example, modern Bluetooth tracker devices have a button that the user can press and hold to reverse the location process. For example, if the user has his keys (but not his smart phone) the user can press a button on the Bluetooth tracking device to cause an alert to sound on the smart phone. The user can then locate the smart phone by listing to the audible alert. 
     It is also possible to use a crowd sourcing feature to locate the tracked item. The crowd sourcing feature allows a user to locate his tracked item even if the tracked item is outside of Bluetooth range from the user&#39;s smart phone. For example, the user will utilize the companion software on his smart phone to flag the Bluetooth tracked item as lost. Then when another user of the same software passes by and picks up the signal from the user&#39;s lost device, the user will get a status update based on the new location of the tracker. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a key locator with tracking capability. A bent rod-shaped first member has a bent first end portion and a second end portion. A second member is configured for selectively retaining keys. The bent first end portion and second end portion are opposed to each other. The bend rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate to the bent first end portion and the second end portion to form the interior of the key locator. The bent first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent center region to hang from an edge. The bent first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly interlocks with the second member. A tracking device is connected to the key locator and is in radio frequency communication with a user&#39;s smart phone. In a preferred embodiment the tracking device enables a user of the smart phone to find the key locator if it is lost or misplaced. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A and 1B  are a front elevation view of a key locator in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure and a partial planar view of the ornament mounting pad thereof respectively, and  FIG. 1C  is a front elevation view of the key locator with the decorative element shown attached. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the key locator of  FIGS. 1A through 1C  in use. 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the key locator in use taken at line  3 - 3  of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIGS. 4A-4B  are a front perspective view of a key locator in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which a container is attached to the key finder. 
         FIG. 5  is a right side perspective view of the key locator depicted in  FIGS. 4A-4B  showing the key locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is configured to be in a closed configuration that seals an interior portion of the container. 
         FIG. 6  is a left side perspective view of the key locator depicted in  FIGS. 4A-4B  showing the key locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is configured to be in an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates more details of a second member of a key locator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 8, 9 and 10  illustrate a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure, showing a locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse and some personal safety items inside of the purse. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure, showing personal safety items and/or additional personal items are attached to a locator. 
         FIG. 12  is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  shows a prior art tracking device. 
         FIG. 14  shows another prior art tracking device. 
         FIG. 15  shows utilization of a prior art tracking device. 
         FIG. 16  shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 17-19  show a preferred tracking device mounted within preferred housing. 
         FIG. 20  shows components of a preferred tracking device. 
         FIG. 21  shows a preferred smart phone. 
         FIG. 22  shows preferred radio frequency connectivity between a key locator and a smart phone. 
         FIG. 23  shows preferred radio frequency connectivity between a key locator and a smart phone. 
         FIGS. 24-25  show another preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     First Embodiment 
     Turning now to the drawings,  FIG. 1A  is a front elevation view of the key locator  10  of the invention. The key locator  10  comprises interlocking first and second members  12  and  14  respectively. In some embodiments the first member  12  and the second members  14  are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and the second member  14  each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and the second member  14  are each made of metal. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and/or the second member  14  comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member  12  is electroplated. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1A , the second member  14  includes a clasp  16  that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element  18 . It will be appreciated that clasp  16  is an exemplary way to retain keys. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than a clasp  16 , a key ring is used in the place of clasp  16 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the u-shaped element  18  is arranged to engage a hook  20  at a first end portion of the first member  12  in order to provide flexible engagement of the members  12  and  14 . One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other methods by which members  12  and  14  can be flexibly engaged. For example, there can be a ring (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) at the first end portion of the first member  12  that engages both hook  20  and u-shaped element  18 . In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook  20  whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element  18 . The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages both hook  20  and u-shaped element  18 . The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as a polygon, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook  20  to u-shaped element  18 . In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook  20  whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element  18 . The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element  18  to hook  20 . 
     It will be appreciated that hook  20  is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members  12  and  14 . For example, hook  20  can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated that u-shaped element  18  is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members  12  and  14 . For example, rather than having a u-shaped element  18 , a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members  12  and  14 . 
     In one aspect, referring to  FIG. 1C , a first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  comprises a hook  20  for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  comprises a closed form clasp  16  or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element  18  of the second member  14 , where the u-shaped element  18  is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , in some embodiments the first end portion  12   a  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  comprises a hook  20  for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member of the key locator  10  further comprises a first ring  702  that is hooked onto the hook  20 . The second member of the key locator  10  further comprises a member  704  having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring  702  is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member  14  of the key locator  10  further comprises a second ring  706  that is attached to the second eyelet. 
     Similar to  FIG. 7 , although not depicted, in some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  of the key locator  10  further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. The second member  14  of the key locator  10  further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member  14  of the key locator  10  further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet. 
     In another aspect, a first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  comprises a closed form clasp  16  or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element  18  of the second member  14 , where the u-shaped element  18  is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1C , the first member  12  includes a bent interior region  22 . In some embodiments, a second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  comprises an enlarged region  24  that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of a decorative ornament  26 . In some embodiments, there is no enlarged region  24  and the decorative ornament  26  is affixed directly onto the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1C, 2 and 3 , the first member  12  has a first end portion  12   a  and a second end portion  12   b . The first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  is configured for affixation of an ornament  26  so that, when affixed to the key locator  10 , the entire ornament is 26 substantially rigidly affixed to the key locator  10  such that any movement of the ornament  26  necessarily causes movement of the key locator  10 . The first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region  22  to hang or clasp an edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from an edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when said bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . 
     In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove the key locator  10  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . 
     The ornament  26 , comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of the first member  12  with its back portion  28  preferably fixed to the enlarged region  24  of the member by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have an enlarged region  24 , the back portion  28  is affixed directly onto the end portion of the first member. As used herein, an ornament is a solid object as opposed to a chain or a rope. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the key locator  10  of the invention in use. In  FIG. 2 , the key locator  10  is hung from the upper edge  29  of a side panel  30  of a bag-like purse  32  with the bent interior region  22  overhanging the side panel  30  so that the face of the ornament  26  is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), the key locator  10  clasps the upper edge  29  of a side panel  30  of a bag-like purse  32  with the bent interior region  22  overhanging the side panel  30  so that the face of the ornament  26  is exposed. The foregoing provides the user with an attractive adjunct to the bag-like purse  32  that serves the additional function of readily locating the key locator  10 . 
       FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view of the key locator  10  of the disclosure in use taken at line  3 - 3  of  FIG. 2 . Keys or other objects  34 , secured by the clasp  16  of the second member  14 , are seen to lie near or at the bottom  36  of the bag-like purse  32 , somewhat suspended from the upper edge  29  of the side panel  30 . The bent interior region  22  of the first member  12  of the key locator  10 , as mentioned with reference to the preceding figure, is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge  29  to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of the key locator  10  and keys  34  will depend upon the length of the key locator  10  relative to the depth of the side panel  30  of the bag-like purse  32 . However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys  34  within the bag-like purse  32 , they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the ornament  26 . 
     In  FIG. 1 , first member  12  has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member  12  is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member  12  have the cylindrical shape depicted in  FIG. 1 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of key locator  10  from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, first member  12  can be a flattened wire or other flat elements. In another example, in some embodiments, first member  12  has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member  12  and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member  12  and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments, first member  12  has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member  12  and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member  12  and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm. 
     In some embodiments, the bent interior region  22  is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member  12 . 
     Although the figures illustrate the first member in which end portions are parallel to each other and are straight, the present disclosure is not so restricted. The first and second end portions  12   a  and  12   b  of the first member  12  may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member  12  may internally include any number of bends. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member  12  may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge. 
     Second Embodiment 
       FIGS. 4A-4B  are a front perspective view of a key locator  110  in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which, rather than having an ornament  26 , there is a container  40 . As in the case of the key locator  10  discussed above and illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 3 , the key locator  110  illustrated in  FIGS. 4 through 6  comprises interlocking first and second members  12  and  14 . In some embodiments the first member  12  and the second members  14  are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and the second member  14  each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and the second member  14  are each made of metal. In some embodiments, the first member  12  and/or the second member  14  comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member  12  is electroplated. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4B , the second member  14  includes a clasp  16  that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element  18 . It will be appreciated that clasp  16  is an exemplary way to retain keys. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than a clasp  16 , a key ring is used in the place of clasp  16 . In the embodiment illustrated in Figure, the u-shaped element  18  is arranged to engage a hook  20  at a first end portion of the first member  12  in order to provide flexible engagement of the members  12  and  14 . One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other methods by which members  12  and  14  can be flexibly engaged. For example, there can be a ring (not shown in  FIGS. 4A-4B ) at the first end portion of the first member  12  that engages both hook  20  and u-shaped element  18 . In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook  20  whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element  18 . The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages both hook  20  and u-shaped element  18 . The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as a polygon, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook  20  to u-shaped element  18 . In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook  20  whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element  18 . The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element  18  to hook  20 . 
     It will be appreciated that hook  20  is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members  12  and  14  in the embodiment of the key locator  110  illustrated in  FIGS. 4 through 6 . For example, hook  20  can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated that u-shaped element  18  is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members  12  and  14 . For example, rather than having a u-shaped element  18 , a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members  12  and  14 . 
     In one aspect, referring to  FIGS. 4A-4B , is a first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  comprises a hook  20  for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  comprises a closed form clasp  16  or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element  18  of the second member  14 , where the u-shaped element  18  is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. 
     In another aspect, a first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  comprises a closed form clasp  16  or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element  18  of the second member  14 , where the u-shaped element  18  is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , in some embodiments the first end portion  12   a  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  comprises a hook  20  for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member of the key locator further comprises a first ring  702  that is hooked onto the hook  20 . The second member of the key locator  110  further comprises a member  704  having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring  702  is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member  14  of the key locator  110  further comprises a second ring  706  that is attached to the second eyelet. 
     Similar to  FIG. 7 , although not depicted, in some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  of the key locator  110  further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. The second member  14  of the key locator  110  further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member  14  of the key locator  110  further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first member  12  has a first end portion  12   a  and a second end portion  12   b . The first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  is configured for affixation of a container  40 . In the embodiments depicted in  FIGS. 4 through 6 , when affixed to the key locator  110 , the entire container  40  is substantially rigidly affixed to the key locator  110  such that any movement of the container  40  necessarily causes movement of the key locator  110 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , in some embodiments, the container  40  is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  so that a first face  42  of the container is exposed. The container  40  is arranged so that the first face  42  of the container  40  faces away from an interior of the bent rod-shaped first member  12 . The interior of the bent rod-shaped first member is defined by the bent interior region between the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b.    
     In some embodiments, the container  40  comprises a hinge that attaches the first face  42  to the container  40 . The first face  42  is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container  40 , as depicted in  FIG. 6 , and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container  40 , as depicted in  FIG. 5 . In some embodiments, the container  40  comprises a swivel hinge  44  that attaches the first face  42  to the container  50 . In such embodiments, the first face  42  is configured to slide between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container  40  and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container  40 . In some embodiments, the first face  42  is adorned with an ornament. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem. 
     In some embodiments, the container  40  comprises a material selected from the group consisting of metal and plastic. In some embodiments, the container comprises gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the container  40  comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, the container  40  is configured to store a liquid. In some embodiments, the container  40  is configured to store a gel, such as lip balm. In some embodiments, the container  40  is configured to store an object. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 4 through 6 , the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region  22  to hang or clasp an edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from an edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when said bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . 
     In some embodiments, the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove the key locator  110  from the edge  29  of a bag-like purse  32  at a time when the bent interior region  22  hangs from or clasps the edge  29 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4 through 6 , in one aspect, the key locator  110  further comprises the container  40 , and the second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  comprises an enlarged portion and a second face  48  of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the enlarged portion. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face of the container is directly and permanently fixed. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face  48  is soldered. 
     In another aspect, the key locator  110  further comprises the container  40 . A second face  48  of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12 . 
     In another aspect, the key locator  110  further comprises the container  40 , and a second face  48  of the container  40  is soldered to the second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  40 . 
     In still another aspect, the key locator  110  further comprises the container  40  and the container  40  forms a part (e.g., an integral part) of the second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12 . 
       FIGS. 3 and 4  are side views of the key locator  110  of the invention in use. In  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the key locator  110  is hung from the upper edge  29  of a side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region  22  overhanging the upper edge  29  so that the first face  42  of the container  40  is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), the key locator  110  clasps the upper edge  29  of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region  22  overhanging the side panel  30  so that the first face  42  of the container  40  is exposed. 
       FIGS. 5 and 6  are side views of the key locator  110 . Keys or other objects, secured by the clasp  16  of the second member  14 , may lie near or at the bottom of a bag-like purse, somewhat suspended from the upper edge  29 , in the same manner as that depicted in the key locator  10  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . The bent interior region  22  of the first member  12  of the key locator  110  is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge  29  to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of the key locator  110  and keys will depend upon the length of the key locator  110  relative to the depth of the side panel of the bag-like purse. However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys or other objects within the bag-like purse, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the container  40 . 
     In  FIGS. 4 through 6 , first member  12  has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member  12  is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member  12  have the cylindrical shape depicted in  FIGS. 4 through 6 . Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of key locator  110  from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, first member  12  can be a flattened wire or other flat element. In another example, in some embodiments, the first member  12  has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member  12  and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member  12  and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments, the first member  12  has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member  12  and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member  12  and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm. 
     In some embodiments, the bent interior region  22  is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member  12 . 
     Although the figures illustrate the first member  12  in which end portions are parallel to each other and are straight, the present disclosure is not so restricted. The first and second end portions  12   a  and  12   b  of the first member  12  of the key locator  110  may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member  12  may internally include any number of bends. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member  12  may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge. 
     Third Embodiment 
     Another embodiment provides a key locator that is similar to the second embodiment. The key locator comprises, in combination: a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion, b) a second member configured for selectively retaining at least one key, and c) a container that is rotatably mounted to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member. The first end portion and the second end portion are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow said bent interior region to hang from or clasps an edge. The first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly engages with the second member. The container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container. 
     In some embodiments, the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises a hook for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member. The second member comprises a closed form clasp or ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. The closed form clasp or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member. The u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking ring in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. 
     In still other embodiments, the first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member and the second member comprises a closed form clasp or second ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member, where the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form elements in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     Another aspect provides a method comprising retaining at least one key by a second member  14  of an apparatus that comprises at least the second member  14  and a bent rod-shaped first member  12 . The second member is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. The bent rod-shaped first member  12  of the apparatus has a first end portion  12   a  and a second end portion  12   b . The first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shaped first member  12  incorporates a bent interior region  22  between the first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b . The first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region  22  to hang from or clasps an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse. The first end portion  12   a  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  substantially permanently and flexibly engages with some portion of the second member  14 . The second end portion  12   b  of the bent rod-shaped first member  12  is affixed to a container  40 . The method further comprises hanging the apparatus from the upper edge  29  of the side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region  22  overhanging the side panel so that the second end portion  12   b  and the container  40  are exposed. The method further comprises retrieving the bent rod-shaped first member of the apparatus from the upper edge such that, when the bent rod-shaped first member is retrieved from the upper edge, the at least one key retrained by the second member is necessarily retrieved. In some embodiments, the container comprises a hinge that attaches the first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container and the method further comprises operating the first face so that the face switches between the closed configuration to the open configuration. 
     Thus, it can be seen that the present invention provides a key locator especially suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device. By employing the key locator of the invention in conjunction with such a device, one may find keys stored within without delay. Further, by providing a decorative ornament for indicating the location of the key locator, the appearance of the bag is enhanced. 
     Fifth Embodiment 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 8-11 , there depicts a personal safety kit  800  in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. The personal safety kit  800  in general includes one or more personal safety items such as drink safety testers, safety alarms or self-defense devices. The personal safety items are typically placed inside of a purse. To facilitate ready location of these personal safety items, the personal safety kit  800  of the invention also includes a means for locating these personal safety items when they are needed. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 8-11 , in some embodiments, the personal safety kit  800  comprises a first purse  802 , a locator such as the key locator  10 , and one or more personal safety items  806  (e.g.,  806 - 1 ,  806 - 2 , or  806 - 3  in  FIG. 8 ). The first purse  802  is any suitable purse including handheld purses, backpacks, briefcases or other bag-like devices. The first purse  802  has an open edge  804  that is upwardly open when in use. In one embodiment, the open edge  804  is the top of the purse; in another embodiment, the open edge  804  is a portion or a region of the top of the purse. In some embodiments, the open edge  804  is an edge in the upper portion of the first purse. 
     In some embodiments, the first purse  802  is transparent or semi-transparent. The term “transparent” or “semi-transparent” used herein refers to a characteristic of a purse in that items inside of the purse are visible to human eyes. Transparent or semi-transparent purses allow end users to carry personal belongings to most of places including some stadiums that restrict purses or bags to see-through purses or bags. In some embodiments, the transparency is between 10% and 50%. In some embodiments, the transparency is above 50%. In some embodiments, the transparency is above 80%. In some embodiments, the first purse  802  is made of a material including vinyl or the like. In some embodiment, the first purse  802  is made of a clear vinyl plastic or a clear vinyl fabric. 
     In some embodiments, the first purse  802  includes one or more straps  810  configured for holding the first purse  802 , for example by a hand, on an elbow or on a shoulder. The one or more straps can be made of any suitable materials including metal chain, fabric, plastic, leather or any combination thereof. As an example,  FIG. 10  depicts two straps made of a combination of metal chain and plastic. The first purse  802  can be of any suitable shape and size. In some embodiments, the first purse  802  is approximately 8 to 10 inches wide, 7 to 9 inches high, and 3 to 4 inches thick. 
     In some embodiments, the means for locating the personal safety items within the first purse  802  when they are needed constitutes a locator that is suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device. In some embodiments, the locator includes the key locator or key finder  10 ,  110  disclosed herein. Alternatively, the locator can be hooks, hangers, grasps, straps or other suitable means. 
     By way of illustration,  FIGS. 8-11  depict a key locator  10  hanging from the open edge  804  of the first purse  802 . In some embodiments, the locator (e.g., the key locator  10 ) is retained in position by a removable fastener  808 , such as a removable adhesive tape, sticker or string, to prevent loss of the locator during transportation, distribution, or display. It should be understood that the locator does not necessarily need to be hanging from the open edge of the first purse during transportation, distribution, or display. For example, it can be placed separately from the first purse or inside of the first purse. 
     As disclosed herein (e.g.,  FIGS. 1A, 1C ), the key locator  10  includes a first member  12  and a second member  14 , and the first and second members are engaged to each other. The first member  12  includes a first end portion  12   a , a second end portion  12   b  and a bent interior region  22  intermediate the first end portion and the second portion. The first end portion  12   a  and the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12  are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region  22  to hang or clasp an edge  29  (or the open edge  804  in  FIG. 8 ). The second member  14  includes a clasp or a ring  16  for selectively retaining the one or more personal safety items  806 . 
     In some embodiments, the locator includes a decorative ornament  26  fixed on the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12 . When the locator hangs from the open edge  804  of the first purse  802 , the decorative ornament  26  is placed outside of the first purse  802 . The decorative ornament  26  enhances the appearance of the first purse  802 . In addition, the decorative ornament  26  outside of the purse indicates the location of the locator, making it easier to locate the locator. 
     The personal safety items  806  can be any type of items or commodities and can be in any suitable configuration as long as they can be placed inside of the first purse and/or can be attached to the locator. For instance, in some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  includes a drink safety tester  806 - 3  for testing whether a beverage (e.g., water, wine, soda) is safe to drink. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester  806 - 3  detects whether a beverage contains gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and ketamine, the most common drugs used in drink spiking GHB and ketamine are difficult to notice in a drink because they are colorless, odorless and tasteless. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester  806 - 3  is in the form of a coaster or a test strip. In some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  include a number of drink safety testers for testing the same drug or different types of drugs. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester includes a composition that changes to a predetermined color when contacted with a beverage containing GHB or Ketamine. 
     In some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  include a safety alarm  806 - 2  for drawing attention to a crisis. In an embodiment, the safety alarm  806 - 2  is a panic alarm for use in a panic situation or a medical alarm for use in a medical emergency such as a heart attack, stroke, accident, overdose and the like. In another embodiment, the safety alarm  806 - 2  is an integrated device in which the panic alarm and the medical alarm are integrated together into a single unit. In some embodiments, the safety alarm  806 - 2  has other functions, for instance, including an LED flashlight or a keychain so that the safety alarm  806 - 2  can be easily attached to the locator. 
     In some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  include a self-defense device for warding off an attacker. For instance, in an embodiment, the personal safety items  806  include a pepper spray  806 - 1 . 
     In some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  include other products or commodities that one would like to carry around for emergency use or due to personal preferences. For instance, in an embodiment, the personal safety items  806  include allergy medicines. 
     In some embodiments, the personal safety items  806  include one or more drink safety testers, a safety alarm, a self-defense device or any combination of these or other additional items. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , in some embodiments, the personal safety kit  800  of the invention further includes a second purse  902 . The second purse  902  is configured to be placed inside of the first purse  802  for accommodating additional items or organizing items. The second purse  902  is generally but not necessarily smaller than the first purse  802 . In some embodiments, the second purse  902  is 6 to 9 inches wide, 5 to 8 inches high, and 1 to 3 inches thick. In some embodiments, the second purse  902  is opaque to provide privacy. The term “opaque” used herein refers to a characteristic of a purse in that items inside of the purse are not visible to human eyes. 
     Sixth Embodiment 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12 , there depicts a method  1200  for using a personal safety kit of the invention in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. In  FIG. 12 , optional steps are enclosed in dashed boxes. To use a personal safety kit of the present disclosure, one first removes the removable fastener to release the locator ( 1202 ). In more detail, in some embodiments in which the locator is retained in position by a removable fastener such as an adhesive tape, sticker or string, one needs to remove the removable fastener ( 1202 ) to release the locator prior to the first use of the personal safety kit. 
     One then retrieves the locator and at least one personal safety item in the one or more personal safety items from the personal safety kit ( 1204 ). One then attaches the at least one personal safety item to the clasp or the ring of the locator ( 1210 ). Afterwards, one places the at least one personal safety item in the first purse and hangs the locator on the open edge of the first purse ( 1214 ). One can also hang the locator on the open edge of the first purse and then place the at least one personal safety item in the first purse. 
     With one or more personal safety items attached to the locator and the locator hanging on the open edge of the first purse, retrieval of the personal safety items for use (1216) is simple, easy and quick. For example, one can grab the locator and pull the locator along with the personal safety items out of the first purse. Alternatively, since a part of the locator (e.g., the second end portion  12   b  of the first member  12 , or the decorative ornament  26 ) is outside of the first purse and visible from the outside, one can easily locate the locator and therefore the personal safety items, and then take out the personal safety items. As such, the personal safety kit of the present disclosure eliminates the need for randomly searching the inside of the purse and reduces the time for retrieving the desired item(s). The personal safety kit of the present disclosure is in particular advantageous when a safety and alarm item is needed in an emergency or crisis situation. 
     After retrieval or use of the desired personal safety item, one can place the personal safety items back to inside of the first purse and/or re-hang the locator on the open edge of the first purse for next use. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , in some embodiments, one or more personal safety items are wrapped, packed, or embedded in package(s). In such embodiments, the method further includes unwrapping ( 1206 ) the personal safety item(s) from the package(s) prior to attaching the personal safety item(s) to the clasp or the ring of the locator. In some embodiments, instructions are provided with respect to the personal safety item(s) or use of the personal safety item(s). The instructions may be on the package(s) or on the personal safety item(s). In such embodiments, the method further includes reading the instructions ( 1208 ), which can be conducted before or after unwrapping personal safety item(s) at step  1206 . 
     In some embodiments, one may want to attach one or more additional items to the clasp or the ring of the locator, such as car keys, house keys, wallets, phone cases, or any other additional items that can be attached to the locator. As an example,  FIG. 11  shows a key  1102  and a case  1104  attached to the locator. In such embodiments, the method includes attaching the additional item(s) to the clasp or the ring of the locator ( 1212 ). 
     It should be understood that  FIG. 12  is just an example illustrating the use of the personal safety kit of the present invention in a non-exclusive way, and the steps listed in  FIG. 12  are not necessarily performed in the order presented. For instance, retrieving the locator and the at least one personal safety item does not need to occur concurrently or consecutively. As an example, one can retrieve the locator and attach an additional personal item such as a key to the locator before retrieving the at least one personal safety item. Alternatively, one can also retrieve the at least one personal safety item after attaching the additional personal item to the locator and re-hang the locator on the open edge of the purse. 
     Seventh Embodiment 
     A seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 16 . Key locator  510  is similar to key locator  10  discussed above in reference to  FIG. 1C , with an exception being that Bluetooth compatible smart tag tracking device  503  is connected to key locator  510  as shown. 
     In one aspect, referring to  FIG. 16 , a first end portion  12   a  of the first member  12  comprises a hook  20  for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member  14 . The second member  14  comprises a closed form clasp  16  or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element  18  of the second member  14 , where the u-shaped element  18  is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook  20 . In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp  16  or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape. 
     First member  12  includes a bent interior region  22  and a second end portion  12   b . Tracking device housing  504  is preferably rigidly connected to second end portion  12   b . Tracking device  503  is contained within housing  504 . 
       FIG. 17  shows a front view of housing  504  with tracking device  503 . Housing  504  is preferably fabricated from plastic. In a preferred embodiment decorative housing face  511  is placed on the front of housing  504  to improve its appearance. USB port  512  allows for a USB connection to tracking device  503 . Activation button  513  allows for user activation of tracking device  503 . 
       FIG. 18  shows a side view of housing  504  and  FIG. 19  shows a rear view of housing  504 . As shown in  FIG. 19 , speaker holes  514  allow for sound generated by tracking device  503  to be more easily heard by a user. 
       FIG. 20  shows a more detailed view of tracking device  503  and its components. Power supply  520  provides power to the components of tracking device  503 . In a preferred embodiment, power supply  520  is a replaceable battery. In another preferred embodiment power supply  520  is a rechargeable battery that can be recharged through USB port  512 . Microcontroller  521  includes programming to allow radio wave transmission between tracking device  503  and smart phone  525  ( FIG. 21 ). Bluetooth radio transmission occurs through radio module  522  via antenna  523 . In a preferred embodiment, tracking device  503  utilizes Bluetooth LE for more efficient transmission. Speaker  526  emits sound to alert the user of the location of tracking device  503 . Activation button  513  interfaces with tracking device  503  via microcontroller  521 . In a preferred embodiment a user presses activation button  513  to find the location of smart phone  525 , if it is lost or misplaced. The Bluetooth signal will transmit to smart phone  525 , causing smart phone  525  to emit a sound and/or vibrate, alerting the user to its location. In another preferred embodiment activation button  513  is utilized as a panic button to cause a loud sound to be emitted from speaker  526  of tracking device  503 . 
       FIG. 21  shows a more detailed view of smart phone  525 . Smart phone  525  includes microcontroller  532  with programming that allows a user to operate the smart phone, and download, install and utilize tracking device app  531 . RF radio module  533  allows for radio frequency communication with tracking device  503 . In a preferred embodiment, smart phone  525  and tracking device  503  communication utilizing Bluetooth LE. Smart phone  525  further includes rechargeable battery  541 , ringing device  542 , vibration device  543 , graphical display  544  and user interface  545 . 
     Examples of Usage of Key Locator with Tracking Device 
     Tracking device  503  includes RF module  522  and microcontroller  521 . The microcontroller is programmed to periodically measure and store the signal strength of the radio frequency communication between tracking device  503  and smart phone  525 . The signal strength is compared to previously stored signal strength values. Microcontroller  525  is programmed to transmit an alert to smart phone  525  when the measured signal strength varies from the previously stored values by a predetermined amount. Smart phone  525  includes app  531  to provide an alert to the user via ringing device  542  and/or vibration device  543 . 
       FIG. 22  shows key locator  510  with smart tag tracking device  503  in RF Bluetooth communication with smart phone  525 . The user can track the location of tracking device  503  from smart phone  525 . A user can attach important items to key locator  510 , as explained above. If the user misplaces key locator  510  he can find it via smart phone  525 . The user may configure the software app  531  to play an alarm on smart phone  525  if key locator  510  starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert. 
     Through Bluetooth LE, tracking device  503  can stay in near constant communication with the smart phone  525 . It is then easy for smart phone  525  to sound the alarm when the user becomes separated from key locator  510 . Tracking device  503  can chirp when the user needs to locate the misplaced or lost item, thereby alerting the user when he has strayed too far from the tracking device. The app can also remind the user where the item was last seen. 
     It is also possible to use the Bluetooth tracking system in reverse. For example, activation button  513  can be pressed to reverse the location process. For example, if the user has key locator  510  (but not his smart phone) the user can press activation button  510  to cause an alert to sound on the smart phone. The user can then locate the smart phone by listing to the audible alert. 
     It is also possible to use a crowd sourcing feature to locate the tracked item. The crowd sourcing feature allows a user to locate his tracked item even if the tracked item is outside of Bluetooth range from the user&#39;s smart phone. For example, the user will utilize the companion software on his smart phone to flag the Bluetooth tracked item as lost. Then when another user of the same software passes by and picks up the signal from the user&#39;s lost device, the user will get a status update based on the new location of the tracker. 
       FIG. 23  shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In  FIG. 23  smart tag tracking device  500  has been removably attached to key locator  10  along with set of keys  600  as shown. The user can track the location of tracking device  500  from smart phone  525 . Besides keys  600 , a user can attach important items to key locator  10 , as explained above. If the user misplaces key locator  10  he can find it via smart phone  525 . The user may configure the software app  531  to play an alarm on smart phone  525  if key locator  10  starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert. 
     Emergency Alert Button 
       FIG. 24  shows a preferred embodiment that includes emergency alert button  633 . In the event of an emergency the user may press button  633 . This sends a control signal to microcontroller  521  ( FIG. 25 ), which in turn causes an audible alarm to be emitted from speaker  526 . Simultaneously, microcontroller  521  causes Bluetooth radio module  522  to send an RF Bluetooth signal to smart phone  525 . In a preferred embodiment, smart phone  525  is programmed to receive the signal and to emit an audible alarm while also calling emergency responders and calling the user&#39;s relatives to alert them of the user&#39;s emergency condition. 
     Tracking Device Alerts when Smart Phone Rings 
     It is very common for a user to place her smart phone inside of a purse or bag for carrying and storage. For example,  FIG. 26  shows smart phone  525  inside purse  673 . As shown in  FIG. 26 , smart phone  525  is covered over by other items  933  stored in the purse. This makes it difficult for the user to hear smart phone  525  if smart phone  525  is making a sound or vibrating upon receiving a call or a text. 
     In a preferred embodiment, microcontroller  532  ( FIG. 21 ) of smart phone  525  is programmed to transmit a control signal via Bluetooth transmission to tracking device  503  of key locator  510 . Upon receiving the control signal, microcontroller  521  ( FIG. 25 ) of tracking device  503  is programmed to transmit a signal to speaker  526  causing it to emit an audible sound alerting the user to the phone call or text. 
     REFERENCES CITED AND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.