Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to security tag based systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to implementing systems and methods for providing a security tag with a telescoping actuator, an integrated retractable pin and/or an adjustable range of insert space sizes.

A typical Electronic Article Surveillance ("EAS") system in a retail setting may comprise a monitoring system and at least one security tag or label attached to an article to be protected from unauthorized removal. The monitoring system establishes a surveillance zone in which the presence of security tags and/or labels can be detected. The surveillance zone is usually established at an access point for the controlled area (e.g., adjacent to a retail store entrance and/or exit). If an article enters the surveillance zone with an active security tag and/or label, then an alarm may be triggered to indicate possible unauthorized removal thereof from the controlled area. In contrast, if an article is authorized for removal from the controlled area, then the security tag and/or label thereof can be deactivated and/or detached therefrom. Consequently, the article can be carried through the surveillance zone without being detected by the monitoring system and/or without triggering the alarm.

The security tags may be reusable, and thus include releasable attachment devices for affixing the security tags to the articles. Such attachment devices are further designed to be releasable by authorized personnel only so that unauthorized removal of the security tags from their articles can be avoided. To this end, many attachment devices are made releasable only through the use of an associated special hook or detaching mechanism.

An exemplary security tag employing an attachment device and an associated detacher is described in <CIT> ("the '<NUM> patent"), entitled SECURITY TAG HAVING ARCUATE CHANNEL AND DETACHER APPARATUS FOR SAME and assigned to the same assignee hereof. The security tag of the '<NUM> patent includes a tag body and an attachment element or device in the form of a tack assembly. The tack assembly is used to attach the tag body to an article which is to be protected by the security tag. This is accomplished by inserting a tack into an opening in the tag body. When the tack is fully inserted into the opening, it is releasably secured in the tag body via a releasable locking means. Access to the releasable locking means is through an arcuate channel. With this configuration, a special arcuate probe is needed to reach and release the releasable locking means, and thus detach the security tag from the article.

The scope of the present invetion is solely defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure generally concerns implementing systems and methods for operating a tag. The methods comprise: actuating a telescoping actuator of the tag to transition a pin from an unengaged position in which the pin is retracted into a first portion of the tag's housing to an engaged position in which the pin extends through an insert space and into a second portion of the tag's housing; and mechanically securing the pin in the engaged position using a securement mechanism disposed in the second portion of the tag's housing. The pin is securely coupled to a movable component of the telescoping actuator so as to be integrated into the tag's body. The first and second portions of the tag's housing are coupled to each other so as to form a unitary piece. The telescoping actuator has a decreased size when the pin is in the engaged position.

According to the invention, the telescoping actuator has a dual purpose of (A) transitioning the pin between the engaged and unengaged positions and (B) providing a visual indication of a state of the pin's mechanical securement. The visual indication is at least partially provided by a marking or texture applied to the telescoping actuator.

At least a portion of the telescoping actuator is reliantly biased in a direction away from the tag's housing. In this regard, the telescoping actuator automatically transitions from an actuated position to an unactuated position by a resilient member when the pin is released from the securement mechanism.

A size of the insert space can be adjusted while the tag is being coupled to an article. The size of the insert space is selectively adjusted by: moving a portion of the telescoping actuator into the insert space; and/or moving the first portion of the tag's housing relative to the second portion of the tag's housing. A shoulder portion coupled to the telescoping actuator may be moved into the insert space for protecting the pin.

The present solution will be described with reference to the following drawing figures, in which like numerals represent like items throughout the figures.

Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, as represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but is merely representative of various embodiments.

The present solution may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is solely defined by the appended claims.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the indicated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present solution.

Despite the advantages of the security tag architecture described in the background section of this document, it suffers from certain drawbacks. Typically, security tags are manufactured as two separate parts, namely a tack (pin) and a tag body. Items (e.g., garments) are sandwiched or clamped between the tack head and the tag body to provide the security feature. When items are successfully purchased at the point of sale, the tack is separated from the tag body by a tag detaching mechanism. At this point, the tack and tag body can be separately reclaimed by the retailer for future use. The problem with this solution is that when a two-part tag is used in a retail environment, the following may occur: the tack with an exposed pin becomes loose and misplaced during the tag detachment procedure performed by store personnel; and an exposed tack can be lost in the retail store due to an unauthorized person defeating of the tag (e.g., a tack is forcibly removed from the tag body by unauthorized persons and left in a dressing room). Both of these scenarios create risk of injury to retail store customers and employees. Loose tacks pose safety issues, especially in the area of children's clothing. In some countries, retailers are legally prohibited from using security tags which include a tack portion with an exposed pin.

Accordingly, the present solution generally concerns implementing systems and methods for providing an improved tag. The tag comprises a unitary piece with a retractable pin. The retractable pin is integrated into the body of the tag. Since the pin is integrated into the tag body, it may have a sharper point at its free end as compared to that of conventional pin-based tags. As such, the present solution can be used with a more refined product since the pin would cause minimal marking if delicate materials with tagging. A locking means selectively prevents unauthorized detachment of the tag from an article. The locking means can include, but is not limited to, a clamp mechanism for retaining the pin in a locked position. An illustrative clamp mechanism is described in <CIT> ("the '<NUM> patent"), entitled MAGNETICALLY RELEASABLE GROOVED TACK CLUTCH FOR REUSABLE AND NON-REUSABLE APPLICATIONS and assigned to the same assignee hereof.

The tag is attached to an article by urging the retractable pin assembly downward so that the sharp end of pin portion protrudes from an aperture in the tag. The retractable pin assembly can include, but is not limited to, a manually-actuated spring biased pushbutton which is configured to urge the pin through the aperture. The tag body, retractable pin assembly, and locking aperture are configured and arranged to maintain the sharp end of the pin in a safe position at all times to prevent external exposure of the sharp end of the pin. To accomplish this, the opening provided for sliding insertion of a portion of material is narrow enough to prevent human fingers from accidentally entering the area proximate the pin. The extended pin is received in a cooperating locking aperture in the tag body, and secured therein using the locking means.

The tag is configured to provide an article insertion opening having an adjustable range of action in order to accommodate a specific range of material thickness. In one scenario, an upper portion of the tag body is movable with respect to the lower portion of the tag body so as to provide an article insertion opening with a varying and selectable height. For example, the distance between the upper and lower portions of the tag body can be adjusted to be larger if a relatively thick piece of material is to be inserted. Conversely, this distance can be decreased to accommodate very thin items (e.g., fabrics). This adjustable feature ensures that the pin shank is never visible after the tag is attached. It also ensures that the garment is not damaged, since the material is held snugly between the upper and lower portions of the tag body, preventing the pin shank from possibly tearing of the item (e.g., fabric).

To release the pin from the locking aperture, an external tool is guided into a channel formed within the tag for releasing the retractable pin assembly from the securement member. Additionally or alternatively, a magnetic field can be applied to the security tag so as to facilitate the transition a pin securement member or any other cooperating locking element to an unlocking position.

The security tag advantageously limits the opportunities to defeat the same. Typical defeat modes for prior art tags include efforts to separate the tack from the tag body. Since the pin in the tag disclosed herein is integral to the tag body, the defeat resistance is dramatically improved.

The tag significantly improves usability for application to an article in numerous ways. Because the pin/tack is integral to the tag, instead of managing a separate pin, the user only needs to depress a button to attach or actuate the pin. The spring-biased button can provide audible, visual and/or tactile feedback that the pin has been fully depressed and the garment is now protected by the tag.

The tag advantageously increases safety both for users who attached the tags and others who might encounter the tag in an unattached stated. Since the pin is integral to the tag body, the issue of possible injury due to an exposed pin is eliminated.

The tag disclosed herein also significantly improves usability for automatic detaching arrangements. The new tag design does not require any interpretation of when the item (e.g., garment) is ready for removal when automatically detaching. The pin is not required to be separately removed within a specified dwell time. Once the detacher hook releases the clamp, the user gets obvious visual and audible feedback that the detaching process has completed (e.g., pin will retract within housing automatically to provide easy removal of the garment).

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided an illustration of an illustrative system <NUM> that is useful for understanding the present solution. The present solution is described herein in relation to a retail store environment. The present solution is not limited in this regard, and can be used in other environments. For example, the present solution can be used in distribution centers, factories and other commercial environments. Notably, the present solution can be employed in any environment in which objects and/or items need to be located and/or tracked.

The system <NUM> is generally configured to facilitate inventory counts and security of objects within a facility. As shown in <FIG>, system <NUM> comprises a Retail Store Facility ("RSF") <NUM> in which display equipment <NUM><NUM>,. , <NUM>M (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") is disposed. The display equipment is provided for displaying objects (or items) <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N (collectively referred to as "<NUM>"), <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>X (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") to customers of the retail store. The display equipment can include, but is not limited to, shelves, article display cabinets, promotional displays, fixtures and/or equipment securing areas of the RSF <NUM>. The RSF can also include emergency equipment (not shown), checkout counters and an EAS system (not shown). Emergency equipment, checkout counters, and EAS systems are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

At least one tag reader <NUM> is provided to assist in counting and/or locating the objects <NUM>, <NUM> within the RSF <NUM>. The tag reader <NUM> comprises an RFID reader configured to read RFID tags. RFID tags <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>N (collectively referred to as "<NUM>"), <NUM><NUM>-<NUM>X (collectively referred to as "<NUM>") are respectively attached or coupled to the objects <NUM>, <NUM>. The RFID tags are described herein as comprising single-technology tags that are only RFID enabled. The present solution is not limited in this regard. The RFID tags can alternatively or additionally comprise Electronic Article Surveillance ("EAS") tags, or dual-technology tags that have both EAS and RFID capabilities. EAS tag technology is well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known EAS tag technology can be used herein without limitation.

Notably, the tag reader <NUM> is strategically placed at a known location within the RSF <NUM>. By correlating the tag reader's RFID tag reads and the tag reader's known location within the RSF <NUM>, it is possible to determine the location of objects <NUM>, <NUM> within the RSF <NUM>. The tag reader's known coverage area also facilitates object location determinations. Accordingly, RFID tag read information and tag reader location information is stored in a data store <NUM>. This information can be stored in the data store <NUM> using a server <NUM>. Tag readers, servers and data stores are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

An EAS system <NUM> is also provided in the RSF <NUM>. EAS systems are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known EAS system can be employed herein without limitation.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is an illustration of an illustrative architecture for a tag <NUM>. Tags <NUM>, <NUM> are the same as or similar to tag <NUM>. As such, the discussion of tag <NUM> is sufficient for understanding the tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>.

The tag <NUM> can include more or less components than that shown in <FIG>. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment implementing the present solution. Some or all of the components of the tag <NUM> can be implemented in hardware, software and/or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuit(s) may comprise passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) arranged and/or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

The hardware architecture of <FIG> represents a representative tag <NUM> configured to facilitate inventory management and object security. In this regard, the tag <NUM> is configured for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG> and/or server <NUM> of <FIG>) via wireless communication technology. The wireless communication technology can include, but is not limited to, a Radio Frequency Identification ("RFID") technology, a Near Field Communication ("NFC") technology, and/or a Short Range Communication ("SRC") technology. For example, one or more of the following wireless communication technologies (is)are employed: Radio Frequency ("RF") communication technology; Bluetooth technology; WiFi technology; beacon technology; and/or LiFi technology. Each of the listed wireless communication technologies is well known in the art, and therefore will not be described in detail herein. Any known or to be known wireless communication technology or other wireless communication technology can be used herein without limitation.

The components <NUM>-<NUM> shown in <FIG> may be collectively referred to herein as a communication enabled device <NUM>, and include a memory <NUM> and a clock/timer <NUM>. Memory <NUM> may be a volatile memory and/or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, Random Access Memory ("RAM"), Dynamic RAM ("DRAM"), Static RAM ("SRAM"), Read Only Memory ("ROM") and flash memory. The memory <NUM> may also comprise unsecure memory and/or secure memory.

As shown in <FIG>, the communication enabled device <NUM> comprises at least one antenna <NUM>, <NUM> for allowing data to be exchanged with the external device via a wireless communication technology (e.g., an RFID technology, an NFC technology and/or a SRC technology). The antenna <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to receive signals from the external device and/or transmit signals generated by the communication enabled device <NUM>. The antenna <NUM>, <NUM> can comprise a near-field or far-field antenna. The antennas include, but are not limited to, a chip antenna or a loop antenna.

The communication enabled device <NUM> also comprises a communications circuit <NUM>. Communications circuits are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known communications circuit can be used herein provided that it supports RFID communications. For example, in some scenarios, the communications circuit comprises a transceiver. In other scenarios, the communications circuit comprises a receiver and is configured to provide a backscatter response.

During operation, the communications circuit <NUM> processes received signals (e.g., RF signals) transmitted from external devices to determine whether it should transmit a response signal (e.g., RF carrier signal) to external devices or provide a backscatter response to the external device. In this way, the communication enabled device <NUM> facilitates the registration, identification, location and/or tracking of an item (e.g., object <NUM> or <NUM> of <FIG>) to which the tag <NUM> is coupled.

The communication enabled device <NUM> also facilitates the automatic and dynamic modification of item level information <NUM> that is being or is to be output from the tag <NUM> in response to certain trigger events. The trigger events can include, but are not limited to, the tag's arrival at a particular facility (e.g., RSF <NUM> of <FIG>), the tag's arrival in a particular country or geographic region, a date occurrence, a time occurrence, a price change, and/or the reception of user instructions.

Item level information <NUM> and a unique identifier ("ID") <NUM> for the tag <NUM> can be stored in memory <NUM> of the communication enabled device <NUM> and/or communicated to other external devices (e.g., tag reader <NUM> of <FIG> and/or server <NUM> of <FIG>) via communications circuit <NUM> and/or interface <NUM> (e.g., an Internet Protocol or cellular network interface). For example, the communication enabled device <NUM> can communicate information specifying a timestamp, a unique identifier for an item, item description, item price, a currency symbol and/or location information to an external device. The external device (e.g., server) can then store the information in a database (e.g., database <NUM> of <FIG>) and/or use the information for various purposes.

The communication enabled device <NUM> also comprises a controller <NUM> (e.g., a CPU) and input/output devices <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can execute instructions <NUM> implementing methods for facilitating inventory counts and management. In this regard, the controller <NUM> includes a processor (or logic circuitry that responds to instructions) and the memory <NUM> includes a computer-readable storage medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions <NUM> (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methodologies, procedures, or functions described herein. The instructions <NUM> can also reside, completely or at least partially, within the controller <NUM> during execution thereof by the tag <NUM>. The memory <NUM> and the controller <NUM> also can constitute machine-readable media. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions <NUM>. The term "machine-readable media", as used here, also refers to any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions <NUM> for execution by the tag <NUM> and that cause the tag <NUM> to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

The input/output devices can include, but are not limited to, a display (e.g., an E Ink display, an LCD display and/or an active matrix display), a speaker, a keypad and/or light emitting diodes. The display is used to present item level information in a textual format and/or graphical format. Similarly, the speaker may be used to output item level information in an auditory format. The speaker and/or light emitting diodes may be used to output alerts for drawing a person's attention to the tag <NUM> (e.g., when motion thereof has been detected) and/or for notifying the person of a particular pricing status (e.g., on sale status) of the item to which the tag is coupled.

The clock/timer <NUM> is configured to determine a date, a time, and/or an expiration of a pre-defined period of time. Technique for determining these listed items are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known technique for determining these listed items can be used herein without limitation.

The tag <NUM> also comprises an optional location module <NUM>. The location module <NUM> is generally configured to determine the geographic location of the tag at any given time. For example, in some scenarios, the location module <NUM> employs Global Positioning System ("GPS") technology and/or Internet based local time acquisition technology. The present solution is not limited to the particulars of this example. Any known or to be known technique for determining a geographic location can be used herein without limitation including relative positioning within a facility or structure.

The coupler <NUM> is provided to securely or removably couple the tag <NUM> to an item (e.g., object <NUM> or <NUM> of <FIG>). The coupler <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, a mechanical coupling means (e.g., a retractable pin).

The tag <NUM> can also include an optional EAS component <NUM> and/or a passive/active/semi-passive RFID component <NUM>. Each of the listed components <NUM>, <NUM> is well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known battery, EAS component and/or RFID component can be used herein without limitation.

As shown in <FIG>, the tag <NUM> further comprises an energy harvesting circuit <NUM>. In some scenarios, the energy harvesting circuit <NUM> is configured to harvest energy from at least one energy source (e.g., RFID and/or motion) and to generate output power from the harvested energy. Energy harvesting circuits are well known in the art, and therefore will not be discussed herein. An optional rechargeable battery <NUM> may also be provided to power the electronic components of the tag.

As noted above, the tag <NUM> may also include one or more sensors <NUM>. Sensors are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Any known or to be known sensor can be used herein without limitation. For example, the sensor <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, a vibration sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a linear motion sensor, a Passive Infrared ("PIR") sensor, a tilt sensor, a rotation sensor, a temperature sensor, and/or a proximity sensor.

An illustrative architecture of a conventional tag <NUM> will now be discussed in relation to <FIG>. This discussion is useful for understanding certain operations of novel security tags implementing the present solution. These novel security tags can employ the same or similar securement mechanism for securing a pin to a tag body as that employed by the conventional tag <NUM>. Accordingly, the novel security tags can be detached from an object in the same or similar manner as the conventional tag <NUM> (i.e., via an arcuate probe as discussed below).

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided schematic illustrations useful for understanding an illustrative conventional security tag <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the security tag <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> with an upper housing member <NUM> joined to a lower housing member <NUM>. The housing members <NUM>, <NUM> can be joined together via an adhesive, a mechanical coupling means (e.g., snaps, screws, etc.), or a weld (e.g., an ultrasonic weld). The housing <NUM> can be made from a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. The housing <NUM> has an opening <NUM> formed therein such that at least a portion of a tack assembly <NUM> (or attachment element) can be inserted into the security tag for facilitating the attachment of the security tag to an article <NUM> (e.g., a piece of clothing). EAS and/or RFID components <NUM> are contained within the housing <NUM>. EAS and RFID components of security tags are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein.

Tack assembly <NUM> has a tack head <NUM> and an elongate tack body <NUM> extending down and away from the tack head. The tack body <NUM> is sized and shaped for insertion into opening <NUM> and removal from opening <NUM>. A plurality of grooves (not shown in <FIG>) may be formed along a length of the tack body <NUM> for engagement with a securement mechanism <NUM> disposed within the housing <NUM>. When the grooves are engaged by the securement mechanism <NUM>, the security tag <NUM> is secured to the article <NUM>. Thereafter, unauthorized removal of the article <NUM> from a controlled area can be detected by a monitoring device of an EAS system. Such monitoring devices are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Still, it should be understood that at least one sensor (not shown in <FIG>) is disposed within the housing <NUM>. The sensor includes, but is not limited to, an acoustically resonant magnetic sensor. In all cases, the sensor generates signals which can be detected by the monitoring device.

Such detection occurs when the security tag is present within a surveillance zone established by the monitoring device. The surveillance zone is usually established at an access point for the controlled area (e.g., adjacent to a retail store entrance and/or exit). If the article <NUM> enters the surveillance zone with the security tag <NUM>, then an alarm may be triggered to indicate possible unauthorized removal thereof from the controlled area. In contrast, if the article <NUM> is authorized for removal from the controlled area, then the security tag <NUM> thereof can be deactivated and/or detached therefrom using a detachment mechanism <NUM> (or external tool). Consequently, the article <NUM> can be carried through the surveillance zone without being detected by the monitoring system and/or without triggering the alarm.

The detachment mechanism <NUM> is sized and shaped to at least be partially slidingly inserted into and removed from an insert space <NUM> formed in the housing <NUM>. When inserted into insert space <NUM>, the detachment mechanism <NUM> travels through an arcuate channel <NUM> so as to be guided towards the securement mechanism <NUM>. In this regard, the detachment mechanism <NUM> has a generally arcuate shape matching that of the arcuate channel <NUM>. Upon engagement with the securement mechanism <NUM>, the detachment mechanism <NUM> releases the tack body <NUM> therefrom. Next, the tack body <NUM> can be removed from the housing, so as to decouple the security tag <NUM> from the article <NUM>.

A schematic illustration of the securement mechanism <NUM> is provided in <FIG>. As noted above, the securement mechanism <NUM> is specifically adapted to accommodate release of the tack body <NUM> via the detachment mechanism <NUM> (or arcuate probe) moving in the arcuate channel <NUM>. The securement mechanism <NUM> is generally in the form of a spring clamp securely disposed within the housing <NUM> of the security tag so as to be pivotable (or rotatable) about an axis <NUM>. In this regard, the spring clamp comprises a clamp body <NUM> and jaws <NUM>, <NUM>. The clamp body <NUM> includes a mounting part <NUM> extending laterally of jaw <NUM> and a release part <NUM> extending laterally of jaw <NUM>. The mounting part <NUM> includes a mounting aperture <NUM> facilitating the pivotable movement of the securement mechanism <NUM> within the housing of the security tag. The pivotable movement allows the securement mechanism <NUM> to be transitioned by the detachment mechanism <NUM> (or arcuate probe) from a first position in which the tack assembly is locked thereto (as shown in <FIG>) and a second position in which the tack assembly is released or unlocked therefrom (as shown in <FIG>).

Each of the jaws <NUM>, <NUM> extends outwardly of the plane of the clamp body <NUM> and then inwardly toward the other jaw. The jaws <NUM>, <NUM> terminate in facing edges <NUM>, <NUM>. These edges extend from a common edge <NUM> of the clamp body <NUM> inwardly toward each other, then curve outwardly away from each other to define an aperture <NUM> (typically, circular or elliptical) for receiving the tack body <NUM>. The edges <NUM>, <NUM> then continue in aligned fashion and end in an elongated, lateral slot <NUM> in the clamp body <NUM>. The lateral slot lies inward of a further clamp body edge <NUM> which opposes the clamp body edge <NUM>.

A further laterally extending elongated spring sleeve <NUM> is attached by a joint area <NUM> to the side <NUM> of the edge <NUM> bordering the mounting part <NUM>. The sleeve <NUM> extends along the length of the edge <NUM> and is also out of the plane of the clamp body <NUM>.

For mounting and supporting the spring clamp <NUM>, the lower housing member <NUM> of the security tag <NUM> includes a circular mount <NUM>. The spring clamp <NUM> is mounted, via aperture <NUM> of the mounting part <NUM>, on the circular mount <NUM>. In this way, the mounting part <NUM> can be rotated about the circular mount <NUM>. The spring clamp <NUM> is thus able to pivot about the mounting part <NUM>.

When an end of the tack assembly <NUM> is introduced in the downward direction through the opening <NUM> in the upper housing member <NUM>, the tack body <NUM> is directed to aperture <NUM> of the securement mechanism <NUM>. This causes the jaws <NUM> , <NUM> to spread open and allow the tack body <NUM> to pass there through.

When the downward movement of the tack assembly <NUM> is stopped, the jaws <NUM>, <NUM> retract and clutch the tack body <NUM>. In this position, the jaws <NUM> , <NUM> prevent upward movement of the tack assembly <NUM>. As such, the security tag <NUM> becomes securely coupled to the article <NUM>.

In order to release the tack body <NUM> from the jaws <NUM>-<NUM>, the detachment mechanism <NUM> is introduced into the insert space <NUM> formed in the housing <NUM> of the security tag <NUM>. Rotation of the detachment mechanism <NUM> causes it to be moved in and guided by the arcuate channel <NUM> until the end <NUM> abuts portion <NUM> of the securement mechanism <NUM>. Continued rotational movement of the detachment mechanism <NUM> causes force to be applied to portion <NUM> of the securement mechanism <NUM>. This force, in turn, causes the clamp body <NUM> to rotate about the support area <NUM>. The jaw <NUM> is thus enabled to spread away from jaw <NUM> due to the force of the tack body <NUM>, which is being held stationary by jaw <NUM>. As a result, aperture <NUM> expands, releasing the tack body <NUM> from the clutch of the jaws. The tack assembly <NUM> can now be moved in the upward direction past the jaws, via an upward force on the tack head <NUM>.

During rotation of the clamp body <NUM>, the spring sleeve <NUM> at the j oint area <NUM> is compressed. After the tack assembly <NUM> is separated from the housing <NUM>, the detachment mechanism <NUM> is rotated in the reverse direction. This reverse rotation disengages the detachment mechanism <NUM> from the securement mechanism <NUM>. Consequently, the spring sleeve <NUM> rotates in an opposite direction so as to be brought back to its original position. Thereafter, the detachment mechanism <NUM> is guided out of the arcuate channel <NUM> and is removed from insert space <NUM> formed in the housing <NUM>.

As evident from the above discussion, the detachment mechanism <NUM> is provided to deflect the securement mechanism <NUM> so as to allow the tack assembly <NUM> to be removed from the housing <NUM>. The detachment mechanism <NUM> may be part of an external detacher. Detachers are well known in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. When the tack assembly <NUM> is removed from the housing <NUM>, the security tag <NUM> can be decoupled from an article <NUM> (e.g., a piece of clothing).

The deflection of the securement mechanism <NUM> results from an application of mechanical energy by the detachment mechanism <NUM>. The present invention provides a means for harnessing the applied mechanical energy. The means includes an additional element disposed between the securement mechanism and EAS/RFID component(s). The additional element can include, but is not limited to, a piezo (or piezoelectric) element, a magnet/solenoid element, and/or a MEMS device.

Referring now to <FIG>, there are provided illustrations of an illustrative physical structure of a tag <NUM> in accordance with the present solution. The security tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> and <NUM> of <FIG> can have the same or similar physical structure as tag <NUM>. As such, the discussion of tag <NUM> is sufficient for understanding the physical structures of security tags <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> and <NUM> of <FIG>.

The tag <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> with an upper housing member <NUM> joined to a lower housing member <NUM>. The housing members <NUM>, <NUM> can be joined together via an adhesive, a mechanical coupling means (e.g., snaps, screws, etc.), or a weld (e.g., an ultrasonic weld) so as to form a unitary piece. The housing <NUM> can be made from a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. Various electronic components are contained within the housing <NUM>. For example, the electronic components are disposed in portion <NUM> of the lower housing member <NUM>. These electronic components include, but are not limited to, all or some of the electronic components <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>.

The housing <NUM> has an insert space <NUM> formed between the upper and lower housing members <NUM>, <NUM>. The insert space <NUM> is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of an article (e.g., a piece of clothing). When inserted into the insert space <NUM>, the tag <NUM> can be secured to the article via a retractable pin <NUM>. Notably, the retractable pin <NUM> is integrated into the body of the tag <NUM>. In order to secure the tag to the article, the retractable pin <NUM> is urged in a downward direction <NUM> from an unengaged positon shown in <FIG> and <FIG> to an engaged position shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. When in the unengaged positon, the pin <NUM> is retracted into the upper housing member <NUM>. When in the engaged positon, the pin <NUM> extends through the insert space <NUM> and into the lower housing member <NUM>. The housing <NUM> has an opening <NUM> formed therein such that at least a portion of a retractable pin <NUM> (or attachment element) can be inserted into the lower housing member <NUM> for facilitating the attachment of the security tag to an article.

A free end <NUM> of the retractable pin <NUM> can be secured inside the lower housing member <NUM> via a securement mechanism <NUM>. The securement mechanism <NUM> is the same as or similar to the securement mechanism <NUM> discussed above in relation to <FIG>. The above discussion of securement mechanism <NUM> is sufficient for understanding securement mechanism <NUM>.

The transition of the pin <NUM> from the unengaged position to the engaged position is achieved via a telescoping actuator <NUM>. An end <NUM> of the pin <NUM> is secured to the telescoping actuator <NUM> such that the pin moves in the downward direction <NUM> when the telescoping actuator <NUM> is depressed by an operator. This securement can be achieved, for example, via an adhesive or mating threads. An illustration of the telescoping actuator <NUM> in its undepressed positon is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and an illustration of the telescoping actuator <NUM> in its depressed positon is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The housing <NUM>, insert space <NUM>, and retractable pin assembly <NUM>, <NUM> are configured and arranged to maintain the pin's free end <NUM> (which may be sharp) in a safe position at all times to prevent external exposure thereof. To accomplish this, the insert space <NUM> is narrow enough to prevent human fingers from entering the area proximate to the pin <NUM>. In effect, the tag advantageously has an improved safety feature both for users who attach the tag to an article and others who might encounter the tag in an unattached state. Since the pin is integral to the tag body, the issue of possible injury due to pin exposure is eliminated.

As shown in <FIG>, the telescoping actuator <NUM> comprises a first part <NUM> securely coupled to a second part <NUM> in a way that allows the actuator <NUM> to be smaller via depression thereof so as to provide minimal interference with a person's inspection of the article having the tag coupled thereto. In this regard, the first part <NUM> is configured to slidingly engage the second part <NUM> such that it can slide into the second part and slide out of the second part. When slid out of the second part, the first part <NUM> extends therefrom in a direction away from the tag. When slid into the second part, the first part <NUM> resides therein. A stop structure <NUM> is provided on an inner surface of the second part <NUM> for limiting the distance that the first part <NUM> can travel in the downward direction <NUM> relative to at least the second part <NUM>. This stop structure <NUM> also provides a means for causing the second part <NUM> to travel along with and in conjunction with the first part <NUM> in the downward direction <NUM>.

The second part <NUM> is coupled to the tag's housing <NUM>. The second part <NUM> is configured to slidingly engage the tag's housing <NUM> such that it can slide into the tag's housing and slide out of the tag's housing. When slid out of the tag's housing, the second part <NUM> extends therefrom in a direction away from the tag. When slid into the tag's housing, the second part <NUM> resides therein. A stop structure <NUM> is provided on an inner surface of the tag's housing for limiting the distance that the second part <NUM> can travel in the downward direction <NUM> relative to at least the tag's housing. Another stop structure <NUM> is also provided to limit the distance that the second part <NUM> can travel in the upward direction relative to at least the tag's housing. The stop structures <NUM>, <NUM> also provide a means for ensuring that the telescoping actuator does not become dislodged from the tag's housing during use thereof.

Notably, the telescoping actuator <NUM> may be resiliently biased (e.g., via a spring not shown in <FIG>) in a direction away from the tag's housing so that it automatically returns to its undepressed position when the pin's free end <NUM> is released from the securement mechanism <NUM> (e.g., in the manner described above in relation to <FIG>). The telescoping actuator <NUM> also has multiple purposes of (<NUM>) facilitating the securement of the security tag to an article, (<NUM>) providing an indication of a state of the pin's mechanical securement (e.g., successfully secured or released), and/or (<NUM>) providing an indication to the operator that the tag can now be decoupled from the article because the pin has been successfully released. These indications are provided auditorily, visually and/or tactually.

The visual indication can be provided simply by the telescoping actuator being placed in its fully depressed state and/or returned to its undepressed state. Alternatively or alternatively, the visual indication is provided via a marking and/or texture <NUM>, <NUM> formed on or coupled to at least one surface <NUM>, <NUM> of the telescoping actuator <NUM>. The marking can include, but is not limited to, a colored line or other shape. The texture can include, but is not limited to, protrusions and/or dimples. A visual indication that the tag has been successfully secured to an article is provided when the marking and/or texture are no longer visible to the operator. In contrast, a visual indication the tag can now be decoupled from the article is provided when the marking and/or texture are once again visible to the operator. The visual indication can alternatively or additionally be provided via a post <NUM> that fills an aperture <NUM> when the telescoping actuator <NUM> is in its depressed position, and not when the telescoping actuator <NUM> is in its undepressed position. The post <NUM> may also provide a tactile indication to the operator of a successful securement of the pin.

As shown in <FIG>, the telescoping actuator <NUM> is designed so that a shoulder member <NUM> extends into the insert space <NUM> when it is in its depressed positon. This shoulder member <NUM> provides: (A) a means to prevent a person's ability to cut, break or deform the pin <NUM> when the tag <NUM> is in use; (B) a means to protect damage to the article; and/or (C) a means to selectively adjust the size of the insert space. In scenario (B), shoulder member <NUM> is at least partially formed of a deformable material (such as rubber or foam) or has a deformable material coupled to an engagement surface thereof (e.g., a pad coupled to a bottom surface thereof that is to come in contact with an article).

The tag's design significantly improves usability for automatic detaching arrangements. The new tag design does not require any interpretation of when the article is ready for removal during a detaching process. The pin is not required to be separately removed within a specified dwell time. Once the detacher probe or hook (e.g., detachment mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>) releases the securement mechanism, the operator is provided with visual and/or auditory feedback that the detaching process has completed (the pin will retract within the housing automatically to provide easy removal of the article from insert space).

The present solution is not limited to the physical design shown in <FIG>. For example, the pin can be designed such that it does not extend into the lower housing member when in its fully engaged positon. In this case, the securement mechanism is eliminated from the tag. Other illustrative tag designs are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The tags of <FIG> generally operate in the same manner as that discussed above in relation to <FIG>. The main difference between the tags of <FIG> and the tag of <FIG> is the telescoping actuator dimensions.

In some scenarios, the tag is designed such that the insert space has an adjustable size. This adjustability allows the tag to accommodate articles with different thicknesses. The size of the insert space can be adjusted in accordance with a plurality of different means. For example, the insert space's size is adjusted by: moving the upper housing portion relative to the lower housing portion; or moving a portion of a telescoping actuator into the insert space (e.g., as shown in <FIG>).

Referring now to <FIG>, there are provided cross-sectional diagrams of a tag <NUM> which has a variable sized insert space <NUM>. The insert space's size is selectively varied via the pin and telescoping actuator assembly. The pin <NUM> is coupled to a first part <NUM> of a telescoping actuator <NUM>. This coupling is achieved via an adhesive, threads, or other coupling means. In effect, depression of the first part <NUM> causes movement of the pin <NUM> in the downward direction <NUM>.

The pin <NUM> has a plurality of notches <NUM> formed on its elongate body so as to be spaced apart from each other. The notches <NUM> provide specific areas on the pin that can be engaged by the securement mechanism <NUM>. The specific notch that is engaged by the securement mechanism <NUM> depends on the thickness of the article disposed in the insert space <NUM>. For example, a first notch <NUM> is engaged by the securement mechanism <NUM> when a relatively thin article is disposed in the insert space <NUM> and provides resistance to further downward movement thereof. In contrast, a second notch <NUM> is engaged by the securement mechanism <NUM> when a relatively thick article is disposed in the insert space <NUM> and provides resistance to further downward movement thereof.

The telescoping actuator <NUM> is designed to be depressed into a smaller form as shown in <FIG>. In this regard, the first part <NUM> of the telescoping actuator <NUM> is configured such that it slidingly engages an inner surface <NUM> of the second part <NUM>. A second part <NUM> of the telescoping actuator <NUM> is configured such that it slidingly engages an inner surface <NUM> of the tag's housing <NUM>. When a flange <NUM> of the first part <NUM> engages a bottom surface <NUM> of the second part <NUM>, a downward pushing force is applied by the first part on the second part. In effect, the first and second parts travel together in the downward direction <NUM>. The second part is designed so that a portion thereof is able to extend into the insert space and is able to come in direct contact with the article disposed in the insert space. Consequently, the size of the insert space is adjusted to accommodate the actual thickness of the article. The first and second parts are maintained in the depressed positions through use of the pin <NUM>, notches <NUM> and securement mechanism <NUM>.

In some scenarios, the first part <NUM> is resiliently biased so that the telescoping actuator automatically returns to its undepressed position when the pin <NUM> is released from the securement mechanism <NUM> (e.g., in the manner described above in relation to <FIG>). In this regard, the first part may be resiliently biased by a resilient member (e.g., a spring not shown in <FIG>) disposed between a bottom surface <NUM> of the first part <NUM> and a bottom surface <NUM> of the second part <NUM>.

In those or other scenarios, the pin <NUM> is additionally or alternatively resiliently biased so that it automatically applies an upward pushing force on the first part <NUM> when the pin <NUM> is released from the securement mechanism <NUM> (e.g., in the manner described above in relation to <FIG>). In this regard, the pin may be resiliently biased by a resilient member (e.g., a spring not shown in <FIG>) disposed in a channel <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there are provided cross-sectional diagrams of a tag <NUM> which has a variable sized insert space <NUM>. The insert space's size is selectively varied via the pin and telescoping actuator assembly. The pin and telescoping actuator assembly is similar to that shown in <FIG>. The main difference between the two pin and telescoping actuator assemblies is the physical structure of the second parts <NUM>, <NUM> and corresponding housing portions. The operation of the two pin and telescoping actuator assemblies are generally the same or substantially similar.

Referring now to <FIG>, there are provided perspective views of a tag <NUM> that is designed with an insert space <NUM> having a size that can be adjusted in accordance with the teachings of <FIG>. <FIG> shows the tag <NUM> accommodating items of different thicknesses.

Referring now to <FIG>, there are provided illustrations showing a tag <NUM> that is designed with an insert space <NUM> having a size that can be adjusted by a different technique than that discussed above in relation to <FIG>. Tag <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> having an upper portion <NUM> and a lower portion <NUM>. The upper portion <NUM> is movable relative to the lower portion <NUM>. For example, the upper portion <NUM> is designed to have two components <NUM>, <NUM> which slidingly engage each other. A first component <NUM> is securely coupled to the lower portion <NUM>. A second component <NUM> is configured to move in two opposing directions <NUM>, <NUM> relative to the first component <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM>. During operation, the second component <NUM> is configured to move in the downward direction <NUM> along with the telescoping actuator <NUM> until it comes in direct contact with the article disposed in the insert space <NUM>. In this way, the size of the insert space <NUM> can be selectively adjusted each time the tag <NUM> is being coupled to an article. Accordingly, the tag <NUM> is able to accommodate items with different thicknesses as shown in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is provided a flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> for operating a tag (e.g., tag <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, or <NUM> of <FIG>). Method <NUM> begins with <NUM> and continues with <NUM> where a telescoping actuator (e.g., telescoping actuator <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>) of the tag is actuated. As shown by <NUM>, this actuation causes a pin (e.g., pin <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) to transition from an unengaged position in which the pin is retracted into a first portion (e.g., upper housing member <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) of the tag's housing (e.g., housing <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) to an engaged position in which the pin extends through an insert space (e.g., insert space <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, or <NUM> of <FIG>) and into a second portion (e.g., e.g., lower housing member <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, or <NUM> of <FIG>) of the tag's housing. Notably, the pin is securely coupled to a movable component (e.g., first part <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) of the telescoping actuator so as to be integrated into the tag's body. The first and second portions of the tag's housing are coupled to each other so as to form a unitary piece. The telescoping actuator has a decreased size when the pin is in the engaged position.

Next in optional <NUM>, a size of the insert space is adjusted and/or a shoulder portion (e.g., shoulder portion <NUM> of <FIG>) coupled to the telescoping actuator is moved into the insert space. The insert space's size is adjusted by: moving a portion (e.g., portion <NUM> of <FIG> or <NUM> of <FIG>) of the telescoping actuator into the insert space; or moving the first portion (e.g., portion <NUM> of <FIG>) of the tag's housing relative to the second portion (e.g., portion <NUM> and/or <NUM> of <FIG>) of the tag's housing.

In <NUM>, the pin is mechanically secured in the engaged position using a securement mechanism (e.g., securement mechanism <NUM> of <FIG>, <NUM> of <FIG>, or <NUM> of <FIG>) disposed in the second portion of the tag's housing. The telescoping actuator provides a visual indication of a state of the pin's mechanical securement, as shown by <NUM>. The visual indication is at least partially provided by a marking or texture applied to the telescoping actuator.

At least a portion of the telescoping actuator is resiliently biased in a direction away from the tag's housing, as shown by <NUM>. In this regard, the telescoping actuator automatically returns to its unactuated positon when the pin is released from the securement mechanism, as shown by <NUM>-<NUM>. Subsequently, <NUM> is performed where method <NUM> ends or other processing is performed.

Claim 1:
A method for operating a tag (<NUM>) according to any one of claims <NUM> - <NUM>, comprising:
actuating a telescoping actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to a housing (<NUM>) of the tag (<NUM>) to transition a pin (<NUM>) from an unengaged position in which the pin (<NUM>) is retracted into a first portion (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>) to an engaged position in which the pin (<NUM>) extends through an insert space (<NUM>) and into a second portion (<NUM>) of the tag's housing (<NUM>);
mechanically securing the pin (<NUM>) in the engaged position using a securement mechanism (<NUM>) disposed in the second portion (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>);
wherein the pin (<NUM>) is securely coupled to a movable component (<NUM>) of the telescoping actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) so as to be integrated into the tag's (<NUM>) body, and the first (<NUM>) and second (<NUM>) portions of the housing (<NUM>) are coupled to each other so as to form a unitary piece;
selectively adjusting a size of the insert space (<NUM>) by moving a portion of the telescoping actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) into the insert space (<NUM>); and
maintaining a free end (<NUM>) of the pin (<NUM>) in a safe position to prevent the external exposure of the free end (<NUM>) at all times.