HK1180196B

HK1180196B - Security system for articles in transit

Info

Publication number: HK1180196B
Application number: HK13107667.2A
Authority: HK
Inventors: 戴恩．姆罗基; 罗德．威本加; 本．塔林泰尔
Original assignee: 塞库罗西尔荷兰有限公司
Priority date: 2007-06-19
Filing date: 2013-07-02
Publication date: 2015-07-24

Description

Security system for articles in transit

This application is a divisional application of the invention application entitled "security system for articles in transit" filed as international filing date of 2008/19/6 and application No. 200880104000.9.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a security system providing tamper evidence. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention may also relate to a tamper evidencing band for encircling an article. Thus, the security system of the present invention may be used to secure passenger baggage to provide a warning to passengers whether their baggage has been tampered with after leaving a check-in counter. Furthermore, the invention is also applicable to other goods in transit, such as postal or freight items and secure document transfers. The invention also relates to a tamper evidencing band, a tamper evidencing device, a device for securing an article, a method of protecting an article of luggage, and a buckle.

Background

A tamper evidence device is disclosed in our earlier international patent application published under number WO 2007/041798. The contents of this earlier application are incorporated herein by reference. The design comprises a fabric strap having a buckle or loop at one end and a free end that can be inserted through the loop or buckle to tighten the strap around the article to be protected. The free end has an adhesive strip (adhesive panel) that can be adhered to the rest of the strip. In addition, the buckle or loop can be released from the strap and the strap aperture alerts that tampering has occurred. The design of the tamper evidence device has several disadvantages.

The old design is reinforced with thick nylon threads sewn at each edgeAnd (4) preparing. If either line fails while loaded, the strap is likely to fail and snap. Also, if the strip is exposed to gravity or tearing forces in any other area not covered by the nylon thread (e.g., the center of the strip), this will result in localized tearing and material failure. This affects the reliability, safety and appearance of the device.

Older designs also rely heavily on complex stitching details and are therefore not efficient to manufacture and produce a high failure rate.

Older designs have multiple longitudinal slits to receive the cross-strap loops which are in the way of the carrierWhen stressed, resulting in surrounding holesThe fibers tear and deform, which weakens the material and may provide an erroneous tamper indication.

Older designs are made to wrap around the luggage and provide an indication that someone has opened the luggage completely. There is no provision to extend the tamper indication to the zippered pockets and compartments or other lockable areas on the shipping/luggage items.

In older designs, the adhesive strip only sticks toThe above. The tear strength of the resulting bond is excellent, as is the case when the bond is intended to be removedAs is the expected result of peeling from another layer. However, becauseThe multi-layer/random particle nature of the fiber, when subjected to any substantial "pulling" force (as might be expected from a baggage handler) during use, is inadvertently delaminated. It is therefore classified as having poor "shear" strength in use, which fails when subjected to high loads.

The buckle release system comprisesA strap which is wrapped around the plastic buckle component and then stitched to itself to seal the plastic buckle component toA strip. When subjected to a pulling force, the tensile force,the strip will unravel along the perforation line. However, testing produces inconsistent results.

The object of the present invention is to provide: a security system; a tamper alert device; an elongate strip for the tamper evidence means; or a buckle intended to solve at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks. It is another object of the present invention to provide a buckle for guiding an elongated strap around an article. An alternative object of the invention is to provide the public with a useful choice over known products.

The reference to any prior art in the specification should not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in australia or other jurisdictions or that prior art could reasonably be recognized, understood and regarded as an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that prior art forms part of the relevant art by a person skilled in the art.

Disclosure of Invention

The term "shipped item" is used to include any item in transit, and may include luggage, freight or postal items, documents, and the like.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a strip for tamper evidence, the strip comprising:

a first layer;

one or more reinforcing layers bonded to at least one side of the first layer; and

a bonding means disposed on the first portion of the strip to selectively bond the first portion of the strip to the first layer of the second portion of the strip, wherein the first layer is disposed such that removal or intended removal of the first portion of the strip from the second portion of the strip is alerted by the first layer.

The first layer is preferably a relatively weak material (typically weaker than the reinforcing layer) such that when the first portion is removed, the first layer is removedThe material tears, delaminates, or otherwise provides a visible tamper evidence. The first layer may comprise a plurality of layers or substrates that are separated in an irregular or predetermined manner to expose the tamper evidence. To this end, the bonding means may provide a stronger bond between the first portion and the first layer of the second portion than the bond between the fibres or other components of the first layer. The first layer may comprise non-woven fibres made of plastic material and bonded by heat and pressure, for example manufactured by DuPontThe strip of protective material. In addition, the strip may be formed to increase the likelihood of tearing when intended to separate. This may be achieved by forming cuts or lines of weakness in the strip, for example chevron cuts.

The adhesive means may comprise a layer of adhesive applied to the first layer at the first portion. A removable release liner may be provided. Alternatively, the adhesive means may penetrate into the strip, for example into the first layer, so that it is activated by heating.

The reinforcing layer may be provided along the entire length of the first layer. Preferably, the first layer is enhanced by two enhancement layers. The layers are arranged such that a major surface area of the first layer will remain exposed for attachment to the first portion at any location along the remainder of the strip. This enables the strap to be adjustable in length. A first of the reinforcement layers may comprise a material having a high tensile strength, such as fiberglass. Preferably, the filaments extend in the longitudinal direction of the strip and may be spaced apart laterally. The second reinforcement layer comprises a sheet made of any plastic material. Preferably, the plastic sheet is adhered to the first layer by heat or adhesive and the high tensile strength material is sandwiched. The plastic sheet is tear resistant. Further, the plastic sheet may be transparent such that any indicia applied to the first layer remains visible through the plastic sheet. Preferably, the plastic sheet is adhered to the first layer such that a major surface area of at least one side of the first layer is exposed substantially along the length of the strip. The plastic strip may also form a separate reinforcing layer.

The strip may be manufactured and supplied in a continuous length, for example on a roll. The strip may be cut to a desired length on site to form the tamper evidence means on site. Alternatively, the strip may be cut to the desired length prior to other manufacturing processes.

The strip is preferably designed such that the plastic sheet has a starting width that exceeds the width of the first layer. This enables the longitudinal edges of the plastic sheet to be folded over the edges of the first layer to protect the edges of the first layer.

Preferably, the first layer has longitudinal edges that are not straight. For example, both longitudinal edges may be defined as "saw tooth" or tooth-like shapes. Other possible shapes include a waveform shape such as a sine. Thus, when the longitudinal edges of the plastic sheet are folded, the plastic sheet is adhered to itself at regular intervals along the longitudinal edges, depending on the shape of the longitudinal edges of the first layer.

When the strip is applied in a tamper evidencing device, the proximal end of the strip may be provided with a loop and the distal end of the strip may be inserted through the loop and the adhesive means facilitates selective attachment of the first portion to the second portion of the strip to encircle the item in the loop whereby the intended removal of the attachment or loop will be evidenced by the device. Preferably, the first portion of the strip is located at or near the distal end of the strip and the intended removal of the first portion from the second portion is alerted by the first layer. The loop may include a buckle, and removal or intended removal of the buckle may be alerted by the buckle.

Furthermore, the bonding means may incorporate a tamper-evidence film that leaves an irreversible evidence of the intended removal of the first portion and/or an irreversible evidence of the intended removal of the tamper-evidence film on the first layer or on the plastic sheet comprising the second reinforcing layer.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a strip for tamper evidence, the strip comprising:

a first layer made of a relatively weak material, the first layer having a first side and a second side;

a first portion made of a reinforcing material bonded to at least a portion of the first side of the first layer; and

a second portion made of a reinforcing material bonded to at least a portion of the second side of the first layer;

wherein the first and second portions are directly bonded to each other at a plurality of locations spaced along the length of the strip.

The plurality of locations may be continuous or may be discrete. In other words, the first and second portions may be bonded directly to each other continuously along the length of the strip. In a more preferred form of the invention, the first and second portions are bonded to each other at discrete locations along the length of the strip. This may be achieved by recesses or holes spaced along the length of the first layer. This may be achieved, for example, by a 'saw tooth' or profile in the first layer as described in connection with the first aspect of the invention. The object of this feature of the invention is to provide sufficient adhesive contact between the reinforcement material on both sides of the strip to enable load bearing while retaining the tamper evidence features of the relatively weak first layer.

The first portion of reinforcement material and the second portion of reinforcement material may be formed as a single piece of reinforcement material that is folded over to adhere to both sides of the first layer. Preferably, the first portion of the reinforcing material covers the entire first side of the first layer. The second portion of reinforcement material may comprise two folded side edges of a single piece of reinforcement material. Alternatively, the first and second portions of reinforcing material may comprise separate layers.

The strip for tamper evidence may be a continuous strip formed as a roll. The strip may be cut to a predetermined length and then incorporated into a discrete tamper-evidencing device. In an alternative form of the invention, the tape may be cut to a selected length on site to suit the shipped items and applied to the shipped items on site. There may be equipment to facilitate such operations. Such an apparatus may apply adhesive to bond the ends of the cut strips to one another.

The first layer and the reinforcing material, and the strip so formed, may have any of the features described hereinbefore in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a strip for tamper evidence, the strip comprising:

a first layer; and

one or more reinforcing layers bonded to at least one side of the first layer;

wherein the first layer is of a relatively weak material such that any substance which adheres to it and is subsequently removed is alerted by the first layer itself.

Preferably, the bond between the one or more reinforcing layers and the first layer is arranged such that separation or intended separation will be alerted by the first layer.

The elongate strip may be formed as a continuous strip on a tape. The strip may be cut on site and applied to the shipped items on site. The strip can thus be cut into lengths as required by the size of the article being shipped. Cutting a length of the strip may form a loop around the article with the ends overlapping and adhered to each other, wherein removal or intended removal will be alerted by the first layer. The process of cutting in situ and applying the adhesive may be performed by an automated bagging machine.

The strip described above in accordance with the third aspect of the invention may have any of the features described in connection with the strips of the first and second aspects of the invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a security system comprising:

tamper evidence means for protecting an article, wherein in use breakage of the device is evidenced by the device itself, the tamper evidence means comprising a unique identifier, wherein removal or intent to remove the tamper evidence means comprises a tamper evidence; and

a receipt retained by a person responsible for the item, wherein the receipt also has a unique identifier corresponding to the unique identifier of the tamper evidence device.

Thus, although the tamper evidence means will provide an indication of breakage of the device, it is possible for the device to be completely removed and replaced by another such device. The security system of the present invention anticipates this possibility by providing a receipt that is retained by the responsible personnel to ensure that the tamper evidence device has not been replaced.

The receiving portion can be separated from the tamper evidence device. For example, the security system may be a kit. On the other hand, the receipt portion may be provided as a portion removable from the tamper evidence device. In a preferred form of the invention, the tamper evidence means is a band for encircling the article. The receipt portion may be joined to the band, for example, at a distal end of the band having a line of perforations, which facilitates its removal. The receipt portion is irreversibly removable from the band.

The receipt may be backed with an adhesive to secure to any suitable surface, such as the document of the responsible person. For example, the receipt may be attached to a boarding pass or passport or shipping ticket. In addition, tamper evidence material may be incorporated into the receipt to alert the receipt of removal or intended removal from the document of interest. In the case of the receipt being applied by an official, this serves to eliminate the possibility that the responsible person may remove the receipt and replace it with another corresponding to another item, or an item not present at all, for example for insurance fraud.

The unique identifier may be displayed on a portion of the tamper evidencing material applied to the device.

Where the security device comprises a band, the tamper evidencing material on the band may be adjacent the tamper evidencing material on the receipt portion. This may initially comprise a single piece of tamper evidence material demarcated over a separate portion of the receipt.

Further, the receipt may be provided with one or more slider fastening portions, each of which may be detached from the receipt (and from each other) for fastening to a slider or locking point of the article, whereby removal or intended removal is alerted by the slider fastening portion or the absence thereof. The slider fastening portion may also include a tamper evident material.

The tamper evidence material is suitably backed by an adhesive and removal or intended removal from the surface to which it is applied will be a warning of this fact. Tamper evidence material with a unique identifier may be employed during manufacture.

The tamper evidencing material may be in the form of a film having a substrate layer (preferably transparent) to which a visible layer is bonded, and a tie layer provided on the visible layer. A release liner may be provided on selected portions of the tamper evidencing material.

Upon removal or intended removal of the tamper evidencing film, the visible layer is broken apart and some portions remain on the intended surface and some portions remain on the substrate layer. To achieve this effect, the visible layer may be bonded non-uniformly to the substrate layer. Suitably, the films cannot be bonded together any more after removal or intended removal. The visible layer may be dispersed in a manner that leaves a mark or lettering on the substrate layer or the intended surface, for example, the lettering VOID or TAMPERED may be displayed on the substrate layer or the intended surface once the tamper evident film has been TAMPERED with.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a security system comprising:

tamper evidence means for protecting an article, wherein, in use, breakage of the device is evidenced by the device itself, the tamper evidence means having a unique identifier; and

a receipt having a unique identifier corresponding to the unique identifier of the device, the receipt being capable of being selectively attached to a document or account retained by a person responsible for the item, the receipt incorporating tamper evidence material having an alert of removal or intended removal of the receipt from the document or account.

Having a tamper evidence means and receipt prevents complete removal of the device and replacement by another device because the identifier on the device will no longer correspond to the identifier on the receipt retained by the responsible person. In addition, the receiving part is combined with a tamper evidence material. If this is applied by an authority to the document or other account of the responsible person, then this alleviates the situation of replacing the alternative receipt and fraudulently granting ownership to other items that do not exist at all. Prevention of this possibility intensifies the need for the responsible person to lose the item or have otherwise unsealed the item.

Any of the features described above in connection with the first to fourth aspects of the invention may be used in this aspect of the invention.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a tamper evidencing device for an item in transit, wherein the tamper evidencing device includes an identifier in a traceable format whereby removal or intended removal of the tamper evidencing device from the item or removal or intended removal of the identifier from the tamper evidencing device is evidenced by the tamper evidencing device itself.

The identifier in a traceable format may include a bar code and/or a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID). Multiple identifiers in traceable format may be incorporated into the same tamper evidencing device. This allows for the secondary tracking system to be run in the event of a failure of the primary tracking system. This also allows for transfer from one system to another or cross-validation of data for two identifiers read synchronously.

The tamper evidence means may also be formed as a strip of tamper evidence material as described in connection with any of the preceding aspects of the invention. The tamper evidence means may comprise a strap having a loop or buckle as described above in connection with the first aspect of the invention.

The tamper evidencing device may include a tracking portion including the identifier in a traceable format. The tracking portion may be separable from the article. Preferably, the tracking portion is non-removably removable from the article. The tracking portion may be mounted to the buckle. The tracking portion may comprise the same material as the buckle or other material that is alternatively adhered to the buckle. The tracking portion may also have an adhesive that enables the tracking portion to be adhered to an article with the buckle. The adhesive bond between the article and the tracking portion may be stronger than the attachment of the tracking portion to the buckle, so that removal of the buckle from the article after it has been attached enables the tracking portion to remain with the article to enable continued tracking of the article.

In another preferred form of the invention, the tracking portion may also be otherwise detached from the remainder of the tamper evidencing device so as to remain with the article to enable continued tracking of the article.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a device for securing an article to be conveyed, the device comprising a tracking portion connected to and separated from the remainder of the device by a separable connection, the tracking portion being provided with a bond securing the tracking portion to the article, wherein the bond is stronger than the separable connection.

A detachable connection is suitable so that the tracking portion can be selectively removed from the rest of the device, for example when sufficient force is used. The detachable connection may be in the form of a frangible connection between the tracking portion and the remainder of the device. For example, these frangible connections may be in the form of perforations. Alternatively, the detachable connection may be an adhesive bond.

In a most preferred form of the invention, the tracking portion may be provided on a buckle forming part of the fastening means. For example, such a fastening device may include a buckle and a strap configured to extend around an article to encircle the strap. Any feature described in the preceding aspect may be used in the present aspect.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a security system comprising:

tamper evidence means for surrounding an article, wherein, in use, breakage of the device is evidenced by the device itself, the device including a unique identifier; and

one or more zipper puller fastening portions for fastening a zipper puller or a luggage locking point, wherein removal or intended removal of the zipper puller fastening portion is alerted by the zipper puller fastening portion or a tamper alert device, the zipper puller fastening portion further having a unique identifier corresponding to the unique identifier of the tamper alert device.

The zipper pull fastening portion may be a series of strips or ties. Each strap or tie can preferably be inserted through an opening in an adjacent zipper pull and the opposite ends of the strap or tie can be fastened to one another. The zipper puller fastening part can be used for unsealing warning. Each strip may include a tamper evident film. Each tie may incorporate a tamper evident film or other tamper evident feature. In the case of a strip, when the tamper evidencing film is adhered to itself, it leaves a warning of separation or intended separation of the fastening end of the strip. In the case of a tie, when the tamper evidence film is adhered to the tie, it leaves a warning of the separation or intended separation of the film from the tie. The tamper evident film may have any of the features described above in connection with the fourth aspect of the invention.

The zip tab fastening portion may be provided as a discrete or separate portion with respect to the tamper evidence means. Alternatively, the slider fastening portion may be provided so as to be separable from the tamper evidence device. In a preferred form of the invention, the tamper evidence means is a band for encircling the article and is provided with a receipt portion separable from the band, and the slider fastening portion may be provided as a part of the receipt portion.

Furthermore, the tamper evidence means may be provided with a hole or cut-out for receiving the slider or the slider fastening portion. The holes or slits may be provided as a series of spaced slits along one or both longitudinal edges of the strap. One of the sliders may pass through one of the holes or slits before attaching the slider fastening portion to an adjacent slider. Alternatively, the slider fastening portion may pass through an aperture in the slider and also through one of a hole or a slit in the tamper evidence means and then seal the ends together. The slider having the hole fastened to the tamper evidence means has the effect of isolating the movement of the slider by adhering the slider to a fixed point.

The function of the zipper sliders is to normally seal and rejoin the two separated portions of the stringers together when they have free motion. This function can be achieved even when two adjacent sliders are fastened together with a conventional locking mechanism. It is known that a thief of luggage can achieve this function even when locking the sliders together by moving adjacent sliders along the stringers to separate two portions of the stringers in order to gain access to the luggage and then re-joining the separated portions together. Adhering the slider to the tamper evidencing device in this manner prevents breakage in the hidden link by preventing movement of the slider. In the event that the slider is moved to re-engage the stringers together (assuming the sliders are separated as described above), any movement will be alerted by the breaking device or the slider fastening portion.

Any of the features described above in connection with the previous aspects may be used in this aspect of the invention.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of protecting an article of luggage having a zip closure (zip closure) with a pair of sliders, each of the sliders having an aperture therethrough, the method comprising:

encircling the item of luggage with a tamper evidencing device as described in accordance with the preceding eighth aspect, wherein the tamper evidencing device includes one or more apertures; one of the slider fastening portions is inserted through the eyelets of the two sliders to form a slider coupler anchored to the tamper evidence device by one of the sliders or the slider fastening portion having been inserted through one of the eyelets.

Thus, there are two possible methods of anchoring the slider:

inserting only one of the adjacent sliders through one of the through holes; and the zipper head fastening part is fastened through the eyelets of the two zipper heads; or

Inserting the zipper head fastening part into the eyelets of two adjacent zipper heads; and the slider fastening portion is further inserted through one of the holes.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a buckle for a tamper evidence means, the buckle being attachable to an elongate strap and defining a loop or guide slot for receiving a portion of the strap such that the strap may be looped around an item, the buckle comprising an irreversible release means to release the loop, use of the irreversible release means being evidenced by the buckle.

This release function enables the end user to conveniently remove the device in a secure manner without having to use cutting implements that are often difficult to utilize due to safety constraints in a variety of travel environments and public facilities.

The buckle may include opposing sides that receive and secure the strap therebetween. For example, the opposite side portions may define a housing through which the strap is inserted. In another form of the invention, the buckle may include two separate side portions that overlap each other to secure the strap therebetween. In the most preferred form of the invention there are two side portions hingedly connected to fold over each other to secure the strap therebetween.

Fastening means may be provided to attach the buckle to the strap. The buckle may be secured to the elongate strip by heat sealing the buckle to the strip. Alternatively, the opposing sides can only be clipped together once, so that after separation they cannot be joined together again.

Alternatively, the buckle may be adhered to the strap by an adhesive. Alternatively, the buckle may be attached to the strap by means of a loop provided by the strap, the attachment means being formed by the strap being attached to itself, which forms the loop and the buckle contained within that loop.

The fastening portion may include a knob and a recess on the opposite side that mate to receive an aligned hole in the strap.

One end of the strap may be fastened to the buckle by a fastening means. The other end of the strip may be fed through a loop or guide and around the article and then secured to itself so that removal or intended removal will be alerted by the strip itself.

After the release operation, the buckle can be divided into two parts which can be irreversibly separated from each other. The first portion comprises a fastening portion and the second portion comprises a ring defining portion having said ring or guide groove.

The loop defining portion of the buckle may be formed as part of one of the side portions. Preferably, one end of the ring defining portion has a ring or a guide groove, and the other end has a release sheet. Preferably, the loop defining portion is separable from the remainder of the buckle by breaking a frangible connection disposed between the loop defining portion and the remainder of that side portion. The frangible connections can be designed so that they break more easily from the end closest to the release tab.

Preferably, the remaining part of that side part, which does not form part of the loop-defining portion, forms part of the fastening portion together with the other side part. When the buckle is attached to the strap, these components are permanently secured to the strap, for example, by heat staking. Thus, when the release tab of the loop defining portion is pulled, this separates the loop defining portion from the remainder of the strap, thereby releasing the strap.

The buckle may include a tracking portion. The tracking portion may include any of the features described below in connection with the following aspects of the invention. Any of the features described above in connection with the foregoing aspects of the invention may be used in this respect.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a tamper evidence device for protecting an article, the device comprising:

an elongate strip;

a buckle portion secured to the elongate strap, the buckle portion defining a loop or channel through which a distal end of the elongate strap distal from the buckle portion can be inserted; and

attachment means for selectively attaching the distal end portion to another portion of the strap for securing the strap in a loop around the article, wherein the intended removal of the attachment is to be alerted by the means, the buckle incorporating an irreversible release to release the loop, the use of the irreversible release being alerted by the buckle portion.

Any of the features described above in connection with the previous aspect may be used in this aspect of the invention. The tamper evidence device may incorporate a tracking device or identifier in a traceable format. This may include any of the features described in relation to other aspects of the invention.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention there is provided a buckle for guiding an elongate strap around an article, the buckle being attachable to the strap and defining:

a first guide slot or loop for inserting the free end of the strap so that the strap can be wrapped around the article into a first loop and guided to extend further in a direction perpendicular to said first loop.

The first guide slot or loop may be angled with respect to the direction of the first strap. The first channel or loop may be defined in part by a first bar or aperture forming part of the buckle, the first bar or aperture defining a member through which the strap may be fed. This feature may extend at about 45 degrees (or any other suitable angle) to guide the strap in a direction required to wrap around the article, thereby forming a second strap extending in a direction perpendicular to the first strap. The buckle may comprise a second guide slot or loop to receive the free end of the strap so that the strap may be tightened and secured to complete the formation of the second and first loops. The second guide slot or loop preferably extends at a suitable angle to the first guide slot, preferably at 45 degrees, to facilitate the transverse disposition of the first and second strap loops.

The buckle may include opposing sides that receive the strap therebetween. For example, the opposite side may define a housing through which the strap can be inserted. In another form of the invention, the buckle may include two separate side portions that overlap each other to secure the strap therebetween. In a preferred form of the invention there are two side portions hingedly connected to fold over each other to secure the strap therebetween.

Fastening means may be provided for attaching the buckle to the strap. The buckle may be secured to the elongate strip by heat sealing the buckle to the strip. Alternatively, the opposing sides may be clipped together. In a single use or in a tamper evidence means the side parts may be clipped together only once so that after separation they cannot be connected together again. The fastening means may comprise a knob and a recess on opposite sides which mate therewith to receive aligned apertures in the strap.

One end of the strap may be fastened to the buckle by a fastening means. The other end of the strip may pass through a first loop or guide and a second loop or guide and be fed around the article and then secured to itself. This enables the strap to be applied to articles having different sizes, the size of the first and second loops being defined by the user before securing the device to itself. In a tamper evidence means, the fastening of the strip to itself may be arranged to be evidenced or intended to be removed by the strip itself.

The buckle may include an irreversible release to release the strap, the use of which is alerted by the buckle, which provides a tamper-evident means for the buckle. This release function enables the end user to conveniently remove the device in a secure manner without having to use cutting implements, which are often difficult to use due to safety constraints in a variety of travel environments and public facilities.

The buckle may also be defined as two parts that are irreversibly separated from each other after release. The first portion includes a fastening portion and the second portion includes a loop defining portion defining the first and second guide channels or loops.

The ring-defining portion may be formed as part of one of the side portions. Preferably, the ring defining portion defines a first guide slot or ring and a second guide slot or ring at one end and a release tab at the other end, the release tab forming part of the irreversible trip means. Preferably, the loop defining portion is separable from the remainder of the buckle by breaking a frangible connection disposed between the loop defining portion and the remainder of that side portion. The frangible connections can be designed so that they are more easily broken from the end closest to the release tab.

Preferably, the remaining part of that side part, which does not form part of the loop-defining portion, forms part of the fastening portion together with the other side part. When the buckle is attached to the strap, these components are permanently secured to the strap, for example, by heat staking. When the release tab of the loop defining portion is pulled, the loop defining portion is released from the remainder of the buckle, thereby releasing the band.

The buckle may include a tracking portion to enable tracking of the item in transit. When such a tracking device incorporates a buckle, the buckle may include a third tracking portion that is irreversibly detached from the remainder of the buckle, the tracking portion having an adhesive to secure the buckle to an item, such as a package, via the tracking portion. Preferably, the tracking means may be mounted to or incorporated into the tracking portion so that it remains with the article even when the remainder of the buckle is removed from the article. In a preferred embodiment, the tracking portion is connected to the rest of the buckle by a frangible connection. The tracking portion may be irreversibly detached from the fastening portion. The tracking device may include a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) or a Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking device.

Preferably, the adhesive bond between the article and the tracking portion is stronger than the frangible connection connecting the tracking portion to the remainder of the buckle. Thus, removal of the buckle will result in the tracking portion being separated from the remainder of the buckle and the tracking portion will remain with the article, which enables continued tracking of the article.

Instead, a separate tracking portion is mounted on the buckle. The tracking portion may comprise the same material as the buckle or another material, for example a plastic sheet or a flexible film, which is adhered to the buckle by adhesive or other suitable attachment means, for example heat sealing, the tracking portion also having an adhesive on a surface remote from the buckle which is exposed once the peelable layer is removed in order to adhere the tracking portion to an article. The adhesive bond between the article and the tracking portion should be stronger than the attachment means attaching the tracking portion to the buckle, so that removal of the buckle from the article after it has been attached enables the tracking portion to remain with the article to enable continued tracking of the article.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for bundling articles, comprising: an elongate strap and a buckle according to the twelfth aspect of the invention secured to the elongate strap. The strip may include any of the features discussed above in connection with any of the foregoing aspects of the invention.

The device may be particularly applicable to postal and freight parcels and to ensure document transfer. In the case of transporting expensive items, the device is particularly useful for being able to detect the drop of a replacement and inferior item.

As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," and variations thereof such as "comprises," "comprising," and "comprised" are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

It will be understood that where specific materials have been disclosed and defined in this specification, the invention disclosed should be extended to all alternative combinations of other materials which perform equivalent or similar functions, which may be combined in the manner described to achieve the functions and effects described in this application.

It will be understood that where specific manufacturing processes have been disclosed and defined in this specification, the invention disclosed should be extended to all alternative combinations of other manufacturing processes that are equivalent or have similar functions, which may be combined in the manner described to achieve the functions and effects described in this application.

The invention resides in the foregoing, and also contemplates the structures given below by way of example.

Drawings

In order that the invention may be better understood, an embodiment will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a view of a tamper evidencing device as employed in a preferred embodiment of the present inventionA plan view of the strip;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the front side of a composite strip employed in the tamper evidencing device in accordance with the first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the rear side of a composite strip for the composite strip of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the front side of a nearly complete tamper evidencing device in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the rear side of the composite strip for the tamper evidencing device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5A is a schematic showing the composition of layers at the distal end of the composite strip of FIG. 5;

FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing the composition of layers in the remainder of the composite strip (i.e., not at the distal end);

FIG. 5C is a schematic diagram showing the composition of layers in the overlap of the composite strip;

FIG. 6 is an internal perspective view of a buckle forming part of the tamper evidencing device shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is an exterior plan view of the buckle shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an end view of the buckle as viewed from the top of FIG. 7;

figure 9 is a side view of the buckle as viewed from the bottom end of figure 7;

FIGS. 10A-10F illustrate steps of securing a tamper evidencing device to an item of luggage;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of the front side of a nearly complete tamper evidencing device in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of the rear side of the composite strip for the tamper evidencing device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of the exterior of a buckle forming part of the tamper evidencing device of FIG. 11;

fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the exterior of the buckle of fig. 13;

fig. 15 is another perspective view showing the exterior of the buckle of fig. 13;

figure 16 is another perspective view still showing the exterior of the buckle of figure 13;

fig. 17 is a plan view showing the interior of the buckle of fig. 13;

fig. 18 is a perspective view showing the interior of the buckle of fig. 13;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the second preferred embodiment of the tamper evidencing device according to FIG. 11 in an assembled configuration and showing a first step in the process of securing a package or item of freight;

FIG. 20 shows a second step;

FIG. 21 shows a third step;

FIG. 22 shows a fourth step;

FIG. 23 shows a fifth step;

FIG. 24 shows a sixth step;

FIG. 25 shows a seventh step;

fig. 26 shows an eighth step;

FIG. 27 shows a set of twist ties;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the top side of one of the ties in its assembled configuration as a zipper pull fastening portion;

FIG. 29 is the underside of the tie of FIG. 28 (with the layer of tamper evident film removed for clarity) except in an unassembled configuration;

fig. 30 illustrates a first mode of using a cable tie as the slider fastening portion;

fig. 31 illustrates a second mode of using a cable tie as the slider fastening portion;

FIG. 32 is a schematic view illustrating the tamper evidence nature of the tie.

Detailed Description

Figures 1 to 5 illustrate the manufacturing process for a disposable security device 1 in the form of a luggage cord. As shown in fig. 4, the nearly complete security device 1 comprises a composite strip 4, the composition of which will be explained below. At one end of the strap 4, a buckle 6 may be secured to the strap 4, although in fig. 4 this is shown in an open configuration prior to securing.

The receiving portion 20 may be removed from the strip 4 for purposes which will be explained below. The receiving portion 20 includes a receipt stub 21 and an optional removable zipper pull fastening portion 22, the function of which will also be explained below. For the sake of clarity, the term composite strip 4 is used to describe the strip material in its ready-to-use state comprising the receiving portion 20. Once the receptacle 20 is removed, the remaining strip material is referred to as a tamper evidencing band 2, which is used to encircle the item being transported, such as luggage. As can be seen in fig. 4 and 5, the tamper evidencing band 2 and the receipt stub 21 include corresponding unique identifiers 19 so that the receipt stub 21 can be matched with the luggage. At the end of the journey to receive the luggage, if the tamper evidence band 2 around the luggage is intact and the receipt stub 21 and the corresponding identifier 19 on the band 2 match, this will prove the authenticity of the luggage item and indicate that the luggage cannot possibly be tampered with. The unique identifier 19 on the receipt stub and the band 2 also matches the identifier 19 provided on the slider fastening portion 22. The identifier 19 may comprise a unique serial number. The identifier may be in a traceable format such as a bar code, electronic label (RFID) or Global Positioning Satellite (GPS).

Fig. 10A-10D illustrate the intended use of the safety device 1. Once the receptacle 20 (fig. 10A) is removed, the remainder of the security device is a tamper evidencing band 2 which may extend around an item to be protected, such as an item of luggage 5 (fig. 10B). It is important that the band 2 is inserted through a fixed point on the article so that it does not slip off. The fixing point may comprise a luggage handle 7 (see fig. 10B) or a crossed through strap. The buckle 6 comprises a loop 8 through which the distal end 14 of the strap 2 can pass (fig. 10B). The loop 2 is tightened around the article 5 to be protected, which forms a encircling loop. The band 2 is pulled back on itself. The distal end portion 14 is provided with an adhesive 15 with a release backing paper 15b on the front side (fig. 10C). This enables the band 2 to be fastened back on itself by adhering the distal end portions 14 to the rest of the strip, so as to fasten the band 2 around the article 5 (fig. 10D). As discussed further below, the product is designed such that its removal or attempted removal will be alerted by the band 2.

In order to legitimately remove the band 2 from around the article around which it extends, the buckle 6 incorporates an irreversible release as will be explained below. This means that once released, the buckle cannot be replaced and reused. This will itself provide a warning of tampering.

The features of the tamper evidence means will be understood from the following description of the manufacturing processAnd (5) carrying out characterization. As shown in FIG. 1, the strip material used in the tamper evidencing device includes a first layer comprising a first material selected from the group consisting ofMaterial 10, a strip of material proprietary to Dupont, inc (Dupont).Is made from very fine high density polyethylene fibers formed by an instant spinning process. The fibers are randomly distributed and non-directional and are bonded together by heat and pressure-without the use of binders, sizing agents or fillers.The strip of material is stamped with V-chevron cuts 12. In use, when the distal portion 14 (see fig. 4) is bonded to another portion of the strip by contact with the adhesive 15a, these chevron cuts 12, together with the high tear strength of the adhesive bond, provide a tamper evidence if an attempt is made to separate the distal portion 14 from the other portion to which it is bonded. Any suitable fugitive material may be used as the materialAn alternative to (3).

As shown in fig. 1, the strip 10 is formed with a "saw tooth" or tooth-like pattern along the longitudinal edges 13 of the strip 10. This may be achieved by stamping or cutting a plurality of strips side by side but longitudinally offset.

The rear of the strip 10 is affixed with a reinforcing layer or tear resistant plastic sheet 16 or other suitable film (not shown) with or without high tensile strength filaments. In a preferred embodiment, fiberglass filaments are used to reinforce the load-bearing capacity of the strip 4. However, for applications where higher load carrying capacity is not required, reinforcement with high tensile wires may not be required. If included, the high tension wires extend in the longitudinal direction of the strip 10. The plastic film 16 is transparent and wider than the strip 10.The resulting longitudinal edges of the plastic film 16 on each side of the strip 10 are then folded over the edges of the strip 10 and applied to its front face, which results in the appearance of overlapping edge portions 18 extending approximately 1cm from each edge in the composite strip 4 as shown in figure 2. See also fig. 5B, which schematically illustrates a plurality of layers. Therefore, the final bonding is firstlyThe combination of the material 10 and the plastic film 16 followed by the bond between the plastic film 16 and the plastic film 16. This second feature results from the zigzag pattern of the longitudinal edges 13, whereby in the overlapping edge portions 18 50% are bonded toAnd 50% is plastic film bonded to the plastic film.

The first benefit of this new design is enhanced(or other suitably weak material) no longer prematurely fails due to delamination at the point where the adhesive strip 15 is attached to another portion of the strip, and no longer incurs premature failure of the material due to excessive stretching due to weight loads expected anywhere on the strap such as may be encountered during luggage transport and handling processes. It is important that there is still sufficient on the front side of the composite strip 4The material is bonded to the distal portion 14 so as to retain the tamper evidencing feature of strong tear strength from the bond of the adhesive.

Furthermore, this compounding of the materials also forms a bond between the adhesive 15a on the distal end portion 14 and the plastic film 16 in the edge portion 18. This bond has a particularly high shear strength which results in a bond with significantly greater load bearing capacity than our prior design disclosed in WO 2007/041798. In thatIn a preferred design, adhesive 15a is included with band 2 when band 2 is sealed around an articleThe resulting bond with the front face of the plastic film edge portion 18 is now able to support a tensile force in excess of 80 kg. This result is achieved with a significantly reduced bond area.

A number of tamper evidence features have been incorporated into the design.

First, when the adhesive 15a is attached to the tape 4When the surface is broken, it forms a specific irreversible damageThe force required for the surface also requires a strong adhesive force. This effect is achieved by cutting intoThe multidirectional chevron cut 12 in the surface of the strip 10 is enhanced. When the adhesive 15a is bonded withWhen there is already adhesion between them, the adhesive is appliedThe force of separation will result inAn irregular effect on the surface of the steel sheet, theDelaminate, tear and break under the applied force that removes the adhesive force. Thus, any attempt to remove the adhesive bond will leave a clear indication of tampering.

The effect can also be usedMade or constructed in layersWherein the bond or composition between the layers of the material is weaker than the strength of the bond using adhesive 15 a.

Comprises thatThe strap material of material 10 and reinforcing material 16 may be used alone as a tamper evidencing strap without the buckle 6. In this form of the invention, the strip material may be stored in rolls and cut to the required length. This may be done on site so that the strip material may be cut to the required length to suit the size of the item being transported, e.g. the item of baggage 5. The strip material may then be applied in a loop around the transported item 5. This process can be automated using equipment that cuts the strip material and applies a suitable adhesive in the field to secure the ends in the overlapping structure.

Fig. 5A indicates the adhesive 15A at the distal end portion 14 of the composite strip 4 (shown without the optional slider fastening portion 22).Material 10 and reinforcing material 16 terminate at end 60. The adhesive 15a also ends upAt the end 60 of the material 10 and the reinforced plastic film 16. Thus, the adhesive 15A adheres to the front side of the composite strip 4, as shown in fig. 4 and 5A.

Bonded to the other side of the composite strip 4 is a length of tamper evidence film 62 (see fig. 5). This is on the opposite side of the adhesive 15aMaterial 10 and reinforcing material 16 overlap only a small overlap 64. Can be used forA portion of the tamper evident film 62 is scored at perforated line 65 to define a receptacle 20 (not shown-see fig. 4 and 5) including a receipt stub 21 and a zipper pull fastening portion 22. Fig. 5A also shows the corresponding unique identifier 19 in a barcode format.

The tamper evidencing film 62 is composed of a plurality of layers (not shown) including a transparent base layer and a visible layer with the adhesive layer 15c (see fig. 5A) provided on the visible layer. A release liner 15d is provided so as to cover the exposed portion of the adhesive layer 15 c. When the release liner 15d is peeled off, the exposed portion of the adhesive layer 15c of the tamper evidence film faces in the same direction as the adhesive 15a (from which the release liner 15b is peeled off). The perforation lines 65 defining the receiving portion 20 and the perforations also defining the separate slider fastening portions 22 may extend through the tamper evidence film 62 and the release liner 15 d. Therefore, when the receiving portion 20 needs to be separated from the rest of the tamper band 2, the corresponding portion of the release liner 15d may be separated.

The adhesive 15a and the adhesive layer 15c may be different adhesives.

In use, the receiving portion 20 is first removed (fig. 10A). Removal of the receiving portion leaves a residual portion 66 of the tamper evidencing membrane (see fig. 5 and 10D) as part of the distal end portion 14. The distal portion 14 is then passed through the loop 8 of the buckle 6 and the strap is tightened around the article (fig. 10B). The release liners 15b, 15D are then removed so that the adhesive 15a and 15C of the tamper evidence film 62 can be secured back to the tape loop 2 (fig. 10C, 10D).

After fastening, the residual portion 66 of the tamper evidence film 62 cannot be removed from the surface of the band 2 without significantly damaging it. The visible layer of the tamper evidence film 62 is unevenly adhered to the transparent layer such that some portions will remain on the transparent layer while other portions remain adhered to the band 2. The separation may be produced according to a predetermined pattern, which leaves two separate indications of the unsealing, i.e. on the transparent layer and on the band 2. Once this separation occurs, it is irreversible and even if the tamper evidence film 62 is replaced in the exact same location, the film 62 cannot be re-bonded to hide the tamper indication.

The predetermined pattern may be characterized by words such as "plaques" at each of the intervals.

More specifically, the tamper evidencing film 62 is composed of a top layer which is a pure poly-terephthalic Plastic (PET) film that is treated using various proprietary processes to employ a colored second layer that is attached to certain areas of the top layer with irregular strength. The areas where the colored layer adheres with greater strength to the PET can be designated to form a molding, pattern, lettering, or a combination of these (designated adhesive). The coloured second layer outer facing surface has an adhesive 15c which adheres to a wide variety of surfaces with a uniform consistency. The adhesive 15c on the outwardly facing surface is less adhesive than the designated adhesive but more adhesive than the colored second layer to the top layer (i.e., the area not treated to form the designated adhesive) general purpose adhesive bond. As a result, once the tamper evidencing film 62 is adhered to the third surface, the colored second layer will delaminate in a predetermined and inconsistent manner, partially transfer to the third surface and partially remain on the PET film in a manner determined by the specified adhesive. The result obtained is suitable for providing a tamper evidence.

Fig. 5C illustrates the composition of the layers at the overlap 64 (as shown in fig. 5) in more detail. The rearmost layer is a tamper evident film 62 with an adhesive layer 15 c. The next layer is a reinforcing material 6, on which a flat mat is laidMaterial 10 and the outer edges of reinforcing material 16 form overlapping edge portions 18. On this, an adhesive 15A, which is also present in the rest of the distal end portion 14, is applied, which is covered by a release liner 15b or a release liner 15d (it will be noted in fig. 5A that the release liners 15b and 15d overlap as shown). In the case where the release liner 15b is present, it also extends to cover the rest of the distal end portion 14.

Figures 6-10 illustrate features of the buckle 6. The buckle 6 is in the form of a two-piece housing comprising a front piece 30 and a rear piece 32. The two components 30, 32 are formed integrally and include an integral plastic hinge 34 interconnecting the two components. The back piece 32 includes two separate cutouts 36, 38 (shown more clearly in fig. 7), through which two separate cutouts 36, 38 a first end 40 (see fig. 4) of the composite strip 4 can pass to extend through the aperture 36, around the outside of the back piece 32 and back inside through the cutout 38 to fold back on itself into the buckle 6. In addition, a series of serrations or teeth 42 may be provided directly below the cut-out 38 to help retain the composite strip 4 within the buckle housing once the two components of the buckle 6 are sealed together, as explained below.

In addition, the back piece 32 has a series of six knobs 44 that mate with recesses 46 in the front piece 30. In the closed configuration of the buckle housing, the recess 46 is aligned with the knob 44. As can be seen from a view of fig. 4, the first end 41 of the composite strip 4 is provided with twelve holes 48 in the edge portion 18. These holes 48 correspond in size to the knobs 44. When the first end 41 of the composite strip 4 is folded over on itself, the button 44 is received in the aperture 48.

To secure the buckle 6 to the first end 41 of the strip 4, the buckle is subjected to a heat-sealing process, whereby the plastic knobs 44 melt in their recesses 46 and also fuse with the material of the composite strip 4. Once assembled, the buckle 6 and strap 4 can withstand substantial loads.

An irreversible release is incorporated in the buckle 6. The front piece 30 is formed with three portions including a central ring-defining portion 50 and two side portions 52.

The ring defining portion 50 defines a ring 8 at one end and incorporates a release tab (releasetab) 54 at the other end. The central ring-defining portion 50 is connected to the side portion 52 by a frangible connection. Two V-shaped grooves 56 extend between the central ring-defining portion 50 and the side portions 52. These grooves 56 are formed on the inside of the buckle housing as shown in figure 6 and cannot be directly apparent from the rear of the housing as shown in figure 7. Upon pulling the release tab 54, tearing will begin along the V-shaped groove 56 to separate the loop-defining portion from the remainder of the buckle. The rest of the buckle, which acts as a fastening portion, will remain adhered to the composite strip 4. However, this will release the loop from the article by releasing the loop 8 from around the loop. Once the loop defining portion is separated from the remainder of the buckle, the buckle is significantly damaged and cannot be reassembled or reattached, leaving a clear indication of tampering.

The V-shaped groove 56 is designed to withstand vertical and horizontal forces that may be exerted on the ring 8 during shipping and handling, as well as during use, while facilitating release from the release tab 54 with minimal force. This is achieved by providing two V-shaped grooves 56, whereby the spacing between the two grooves 56 increases as it approaches the ring 8.

Furthermore, each of the V-shaped grooves 56 is both deep and wide at the release tab end, but becomes shallower and narrower as it approaches the ring 8. This makes it easier to initiate the tear from the release tab 54, and makes it more difficult to create an unintended tear from the ring 8.

As is evident from fig. 9, the release tab 54 is upwardly angled to facilitate gripping when release is desired.

The buckle 6 may also include tracking means to enable tracking of items in transit such as luggage. It may be in the form of a radio frequency identification device that is sensed during passage of the package through various sensors disposed at an airport or other shipping center.

As shown in fig. 4 and 5, the tamper evidencing device 1 further includes four slider fastening portions 22. As will be appreciated from the above, these are also formed by the tamper evident film and have a release liner 15 d. The slider fastening section 22 functions to join the band 2 to two adjacent sliders 23 of the luggage (see fig. 10E). This is achieved by removing the release liner 15d from one of the slider fastening sections 22, passing it through the hole in the adjacent slider 23 and through the hole 72 in the band 2, folding it about halfway, and then fastening it to itself adhesive side to adhesive side, end to end. The enlarged end is then folded criss-cross over itself (see fig. 10F). Once secured in this manner, the slider fastening portion 22 cannot be removed without significant damage to the tamper evident film.

The slider fastening portion 22 is attached to a fixed point on the tamper evidencing band 2. Regularly spaced holes 72 are provided along the edge portion 18 of the composite strip 4 (see also figure 4). The slider fastening portion 22 may be passed through an eyelet in an adjacent slider 23 and also inserted through the aperture 72, thereby anchoring the slider to the tamper evidencing band 2, as shown in fig. 10F. Alternatively, the user may insert one of the sliders through one of the holes 72 before applying the slider fastening portion 22 through the slider (or locking point).

Once isolated in this manner, the sliders 23 cannot be removed from their isolation points on the tamper evidencing band 2 without significantly damaging the band 2 or the slider fastening portion 22. This prevents movement of one or more zipper sliders (zip sliders) relative to the zipper and the point at which it adheres to the band 2. Isolating the slider 23 in this manner improves the tamper detection function of the device as it prevents unrecorded access to the tape lock space on the article and also prevents concealment of tampering such as a zipper break without leaving an indication of tampering on the tamper band 2 or the slider retainer 22 when the slider cannot be moved or controlled to reseal or conceal a broken zipper tape (zipper).

The slider may also be used for other locking points of luggage or items of freight.

As an alternative to the slider fastening portion 22, a tie 110 such as disclosed in fig. 27 to 32 may also be used.

The tie 110 may be formed as a 3-strap molding assembly 112. Each tie 110 may be attached to the assembly 112 in a frangible manner for easy removal by hand as shown in fig. 27. Each tie 110 has a head 114 and a tail 116. The tail 116 is formed with a series of teeth or serrated upper surfaces 118 as shown. The head 114 is backed by a strip of tamper evidence film 120, a portion of which head 114 is visible in fig. 32.

The head is shown more clearly in figure 28. The head 114 is in the form of a generally rectangular plate 122 having two spaced apart chevron-shaped portions 124. Each chevron 124 is formed integrally with the remainder of the plate 122. There is a frangible connection (not shown) between each chevron 124 and the plate 122. In addition, each chevron 124 is formed with a channel portion 126, the channel portion 126 defining a channel 128 through which the trailing end 116 of the twist tie 110 can be inserted. The two passageways are aligned and enable the trailing end 116 to extend through the passageway 128 in a manner that overlies the generally planar surface of the top surface of the plate 122. Further, the distal end 130 of the trailing end 116 is thinner, thereby facilitating straight-through passage 128.

It is noted that providing two separate aisles 128 will make it easier to pass the trailing end 116 straight through than a long aisle.

The head 114 also includes a locking portion in the form of a ratchet portion 132. Ratchet portion 132 cooperates with serrated upper edge 118 on tail portion 116 to allow feed in the direction indicated by arrow a but not in the opposite direction. As shown in FIG. 29, the ratchet portion 132 extends rearwardly along an optional line of weakness (not shown) toward the chevron 124, the purpose of which will be explained below.

The tamper evidence film 120 adheres to the back of the chevron portion 124 and the ratchet portion 132.

The tie 110 may be used to secure the zipper puller 23 of a shipping article, such as an item of luggage 5, in the manner shown in fig. 30 or alternatively in fig. 31. In fig. 30, one of two adjacent sliders 23 is inserted through the hole 72 in the band 2. The trailing end 116 of the tie 110 is then inserted through the zipper post 23 and then through the head 114. Thereby restraining the slider 23. The strap 2 cannot move beyond the limits of the luggage handle 7. By being tied to the strap 2, the slider 23 cannot move considerably beyond the limits of the luggage handle 7.

In the alternative shown in fig. 31, the tie 110 can be tightened around the hole 72 in the band 2 and the adjacent locking ring 25 of the zipper slider.

It is noted that the band 2 may also be constrained in movement by the other band 2 when passing through the transverse strap aperture 70 in either band.

As will be appreciated, the tie 110 cannot be removed without providing tamper evidence. The tie 110 is a disposable device (just like the security device 1) and therefore the tie 110 is designed to be easily removed by the person responsible for transporting the article 5 once the article 5 reaches its destination. However, if the article 5 reaches its destination without the tie 110 or showing a warning that it has been tampered with, the responsible person may conclude that the article 5 has been tampered with.

The tie 110 is removed by continuing to pull on the distal end 130 in the manner shown in fig. 32. Due to the parallel lines of weakness, the ratchet portion 132 will tear away from the remainder of the plate 122. In addition, the chevron 124 will also be removed as shown in FIG. 32. Since the tamper evidencing film 120 has been secured to the underside of the plate 122, the tamper evidencing film will have a warning of removal as shown. The purpose of the tie 110 is to provide a tamper evidence because the ratchet portion 132 and chevron 124 can be irreversibly detached from the plate 122 and cannot be recovered without leaving a tamper evidence. It is also noted that the ratcheted portion 132 is too large to fit through the aisle 128.

The tie has a number of additional features. The shape of the chevron 124 provides directional guidance to the person installing the tie as they indicate the direction in which the tail 116 should be inserted through the passageway 128. They can also be shaped to initiate a tear from the center thereof and extend the tear in the direction opposite to arrow a. In addition, the double chevron allows for damage to one of the chevrons 124 by the handle. However, the presence of a second full chevron 124 indicates that no unsealing has occurred.

Furthermore, a more comprehensive identification system can be used in the tamper evidence device 1. A unique identifier may be provided on the remnant 66 of the tamper evidence film 62. The unique identifier may include a barcode and a serial number. A corresponding unique identifier may be provided on the receiving portion 20, including on each of the zipper puller fastening portions 22 (including the cable tie 110) and on the receipt stub 21 retained by the person responsible for the item/luggage/freight.

The provision of a unique identifier on the remainder 66 of the tamper evidence film 62 means that the unique identifier cannot be removed or tampered with without leaving a significant warning in the tamper evidence film. Furthermore, the tamper evidencing band 2 cannot be removed from the article and replaced by another tamper evidencing band, as the unique identifier will not match the unique identifier on the receipt stub 21 retained by the responsible person. Also, the zipper puller fastening portion 22 cannot be removed and replaced because the unique identifier will not match the unique identifier on the tamper evidencing band 2 or receipt stub 21. In addition, receipt stub 21 retained by the responsible person has a peel-off liner paper that can be removed so that receipt stub 21 can be attached to a travel document such as a boarding pass or other certification document such as a freight receipt, thereby permanently associating the item secured by band 2 with a particular transaction or shipment/baggage movement. If the receipt is applied to the document by an authority, it enhances the evidentiary value of receipt stub 21 because receipt stub 21 cannot be removed from the document without providing an unseal alert. Thus, the owner cannot replace another receipt stub 21 to claim ownership of a substitute item or an item that does not exist at all. This mitigation of fraud enhances the evidentiary value of the present system.

The comprehensive identification system may also include the integration of additional identifiers, such as remote Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID), into the tamper evidencing device 1 holding public or specific data. Where such additional identifiers are integrated into the tamper evidencing device 1, they may be included by placing such device within the buckle 6 (as shown later in a second preferred embodiment of the security device), or sandwiched between layers of the composite strip 4 during the production process, or adhered to the buckle 6 or band 2 during or after the production process via a suitable attachment means (i.e. heat seal or adhesive).

The advantage is that a plurality of unique identifiers can be used in a single operation in the form of tamper evidence. This enables tracking by a variety of tracking systems that may be employed. When so applied, this allows for protecting items to be tracked by multiple tracking systems from possible failure or malfunction of one of the systems. It also takes into account the presence of different incompatible systems that may be present in different devices. Some devices may exist in the conversion process from one system to another (i.e., from bar code to RFID). Data contained in or associated with the various identifiers can be read simultaneously and cross-validated within the same shipping environment.

Furthermore, the durable design of the tamper evidencing device 1 as described above provides the unique advantage of enabling such a device to be adhered to an article in a manner capable of withstanding substantial loads and handling stresses far in excess of existing "disposable" media for adhering the tracking device to the article (e.g., to a device for shipping the article via a film having a single layer of adhesive). Thus, the use of the tamper evidencing device 1 in this manner will reduce the incidental loss of the identifier from the item being handled or transported ('dropout').

Transverse strap aperture 70 the straps 2 are arranged transversely to each other by passing one strap 2 through the transverse strap aperture of the other strap as described in our prior application WO 2007/041798. The tear resistant flexible plastic reinforcement layer 16 and the high tensile filaments (if any) reinforce the material surrounding the transverse strap apertures 70, which reduces any deformation and tearing that may occur when the material surrounding these apertures 70 is subjected to stress. When a tear does occur, it is less likely to spread laterally across the strip. This increases the functionality of the strap by reducing false indications of tampering and minimizing material failure during shipping/baggage transport and handling.

Fig. 11 to 26 now describe a second preferred form of security device 1' which is intended for use exclusively as a carrier and goods transport strap.

Figures 13 to 18 illustrate features of an alternative form of buckle 6' which is specific to postal and freight items, such as parcels. The alternative form of buckle is similar in many respects to the first form and therefore like reference numerals will be used to denote like parts with a prime (') added to indicate that these parts relate to the new embodiment.

Fig. 11 and 12 illustrate a composite strip 4' which is similar in most respects to the composite strip shown in fig. 1 to 5C. The composite strip 4 'is used with a buckle 6'. The primary difference is that the zipper puller fastening portion 22, which may not be required for postal or freight items, is omitted. Other possible differences may be the omission of regularly spaced holes 72 used in conjunction with the zipper pull fastening portion 22. Thus, these holes may be omitted in this embodiment of the invention. In view of the similarity with the first embodiment, like reference numerals are used to indicate like features and a prime (') is added to indicate the second embodiment.

The buckle 6 ' is in the form of a two-piece housing comprising a front piece 30 ' and a rear piece 32 '. The two parts 30 ', 32 ' are formed as one piece and include an integral plastic hinge 34 ' that interconnects the two parts. The back piece 32 ' includes two separate cutouts 36 ', 38 '. As shown in fig. 11, the first end 40 'of the composite strip 4' may be threaded to extend through the aperture 36 ', around the outside of the back piece 32' and back inside through the cutout 38 'to fold back on itself into the buckle 6'. In addition, a series of serrations or teeth 42 'may be provided directly below the cut-out 38' to assist in retaining the composite strip 4 'within the buckle housing once the two parts of the buckle 6' are sealed together, as explained below.

In addition, as shown in fig. 15 and 17, the rear piece 32 'has a series of six knobs 44' that mate with recesses 46 'in the front piece 30'. In the closed configuration of the buckle housing, the recess 46 'is aligned with the knob 44'. As shown in fig. 11, the first end portion 41 'of the composite strip 4' is provided with twelve apertures 48 'in the edge portion 18'. These holes 48 'correspond in size to the knobs 44'. When the first end 41 'of the composite strip 4' is folded upon itself, the button 44 'is received in the aperture 48'.

To fasten the buckle 6 'to the first end 41' of the strip 4 ', the buckle is subjected to a heat-sealing process, whereby the plastic knobs 44' melt in their recesses 46 'and also fuse with the material of the composite strip 4'. Once the number is assembled, the buckle 6 'and strap 4' can withstand substantial loads.

In addition, as shown more clearly in fig. 18, the front piece 30 'includes a knob 35 that engages a recess 37 in the rear piece 32'. Their purpose is to hold the front and rear pieces of the buckle together so as to enable easier manufacture (i.e. heat sealing), which improves the seal of the buckle against unsealing, and also improves the ability of the fully assembled buckle to withstand upward forces that may be exerted on the endless loop during transport (i.e. pulling up items of freight from the loop at the area near the channel 9').

An irreversible release is incorporated in the buckle 6'. The front piece 30 ' is formed with three portions including a central loop or channel defining portion 50 ' and two side portions 52 '.

The ring or guide slot defining portion 50 ' defines a first ring or guide slot 8 ' and a second ring or guide slot 9 '. The ring 8' is partially defined by side bars 80. The guide slot 9 'is defined in part by an inclined bar 82, the inclined bar 82 projecting from the general plane of the ring-defining portion 50' so as to define two openings 84, 86 (see fig. 15 and 16) in the sides of the bar 82. Thus, the composite strip 4 'may be looped around the channel 9'.

The ring or channel defining portion also incorporates a release tab 54' at the other end. The central ring-defining portion 50 'is connected to the side portion 52' by a frangible connection. Two V-shaped grooves 56 ' extend between the central ring-defining portion 50 ' and the side portions 52 '. As shown in fig. 17, these grooves 56' are formed on the inside of the buckle housing. Upon pulling the release tab 54 ', tearing will begin along the V-shaped groove 56 ' to separate the loop or channel defining portion 50 ' from the remainder of the buckle. The remainder of the buckle, which acts as a fastening portion, will remain adhered to the first end 41 'of the composite strip 4'. However, this will release the encircling strap from around the article, as the loop 8 'and the guide slot 9' are released from the buckle. Once the loop or channel defining portion 50' is separated from the rest of the buckle, the buckle is significantly damaged and cannot be reassembled or reattached, leaving a clear indication of tampering.

The V-shaped groove 56 'is designed to withstand vertical and horizontal forces that may be exerted on the ring 8' and guide groove 9 'during shipping and handling, as well as during use, while facilitating release from the release tab 54' with minimal force. This is achieved by providing two V-shaped grooves 56 ', whereby the distance between the two grooves 56' increases as it approaches the guide groove 9 'and the ring 8'. Furthermore, each of the V-shaped grooves 56 ' is both deep and wide at the release tab end, but becomes shallower and narrower as it approaches the loop 8 ' and the guide groove 9 '. This makes tearing from the release tab 54 ' easier and makes it more difficult to produce unintended tearing from the loop 8 ' and the guide groove 9 '.

As is evident from fig. 15, the release tab 54' is upwardly angled to facilitate gripping when tearing is desired.

Alternatively, the buckle 6 'may be formed with each of the features as described, but without the release function by removing the release tab 54' and the respective V-shaped groove 56 'from the design of the buckle 6'.

The buckle 6' may also include tracking means 87 (see fig. 13) to enable tracking of the item in transit. It may be in the form of a radio frequency identification device that is sensed during passage of the package through various sensors disposed at an airport or other shipping center. The tracking means is adapted to be contained within a tracking portion 88 forming part of the back piece 32'. The tracking portion 88 is irreversibly separated from the remainder of the back piece by a frangible connection 90. Furthermore, an adhesive layer 94 (see fig. 19) is provided on the underside of the tracking portion 88 in order to fasten the buckle 6' to an item of freight 96 (fig. 20). It is intended that the adhesive bond be stronger than the frangible connection 90 so that the tracking portion 88 with the tracking means 87 remains with the article 96 in the event that removal of the buckle is attempted and/or effected. The tracking device 87 is disposed on the underside of the tracking portion, separated from the article by an adhesive layer 94.

Specifically, in the event that the tracking portion 88 is released from the remainder of the buckle 6', the tracking portion 88 will remain adhered to the article by the adhesive engagement of the adhesive layer 94, and the tracking device 87 is contained between the adhesive layer 94 and the article-facing surface of the tracking portion 88. Thus, even in the case where the tracking portion 88 is separated from the rest of the buckle 6', the tracking means 87 remains detached and protected by the tracking portion 88.

The use of the security device 1' according to a second preferred embodiment will now be described with reference to figures 19 to 26. Fig. 19 illustrates one end of the security device 1 ' showing the buckle 6 ' already fitted with the composite strap 4 ' and with the receipt stub 21 ' removed so that the remainder of the strap now defines the tamper evidencing band 2 '. The outer side of the back piece 32' is provided with a release liner 92 on an adhesive layer 94. The release liner 92 is removed so that the buckle 6' can be adhered to the package 96 in the manner shown in figure 20. The tamper evidencing band 2' is then extended around the package 96. The distal portion 14 'is then passed through the channel 9' to form a loop around the wrap 96 as shown in figure 21. The band can be tightened by pulling on the tamper evident band 2'. As will be understood from fig. 21, the bar 82 defining the guide groove 9 ' is arranged at an angle of 45 ° to the incoming tamper band loop 2 ' so that when the strip is fed under the bar 82, it can be reversed so that it rests on the edge of the bar 82 extending at an angle of 45 ° to the feed direction of the incoming tamper band loop 2 '. This extends the tamper band 2 'in a direction away from the guide groove 9' at an angle of 90 ° to the feed direction, as shown in fig. 22. The tamper evidencing band 2' may then be extended to form a further band around the wrap 96, the second band extending at an angle of 90 to the first band. The distal end 14 'is then passed through the loop 8' as shown in figure 23 and the second band tightened around the wrap 96 as shown in figure 24.

As shown in fig. 25, the release liner 15d ' corresponding to the residual portion 66 ' of the tamper evidencing film is then removed to expose the adhesive 15c ' on the tamper evidencing film. In addition, the release liner 15b 'corresponding to the adhesive 15 a' is also removed. The two backing paper strips 15b 'and 15 d' may be one and the same. The distal portion 14 'including the remainder 66' of the tamper evidencing film 62 'may then be secured back to the tamper evidencing band 2' in the manner shown in fig. 26.

After fastening, the distal end portion 14 'cannot be removed from the surface of the tamper band 2' without significant damage in the manner explained above for the first embodiment.

To remove the security device 1 ' from the package 96, the user continues to pull the release tab 54 ' which separates the loop or channel defining portion 50 ' from the remainder of the buckle. It will be appreciated that the looped portions 102, 104, 106 are looped around the loop or channel defining portion 50'. In another aspect, the strap portion 108 is attached to a fastening portion of the buckle. Thus, with the loop or channel defining portion 50' removed, the band portions 102, 104, 106 will be allowed to freely release, thereby allowing access to the package 96. As described for the buckle 6 in the previously preferred embodiment, once the loop or channel defining portion 50' is separated from the remainder of the buckle, the buckle is significantly damaged and cannot be reassembled or reattached, leaving a clear indication of tampering. The fastening portion remains adhered to the wrap 96. Thus, if the loop or channel defining portion 50' is removed, either intentionally (incorrect use) or unintentionally (vandalism), the tracking portion 88 will remain with the package 96.

If the buckle 6 'is not formed with the release function, the encircling band can be removed by breaking the seal formed by the adhesive 15 a', 15c 'adhered to the distal end portion 14' (which includes the tamper evident film 66 ') of the tamper evident band 2'. As described above, this removal will be alerted by the band 2'.

If sufficient force is applied to remove the buckle 6 'from the article for any reason, the frangible connection 90 connecting the tracking portion 88 to the buckle 6' will be broken. If at this point the tamper evidencing band 2 has been released, either by operation of the release tab 54 'or by any other means, this will result in the remainder of the buckle 6' being removed from the article while the tracking portion 88 remains attached to the package 96 by the fastening portion so that tracking can continue if desired.

Loss of a portion of the security device 1' will serve to indicate that the package 96 may have been tampered with. On the other hand, the arrival of a package 96 with intact security devices 1' would provide a method of indicating the non-unsealed transport of the package 96.

Claims

1. A method of securing an article having one or more zippers with one or more zipper sliders, the method comprising:

encircling an article with a tamper evidencing band having a plurality of anchoring locations spaced longitudinally along the tamper evidencing band;

selecting one of the anchor locations; and

securing the one or more zipper sliders to the tamper evidencing band at selected anchoring locations.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of anchoring locations comprise spaced holes extending along a substantial portion of the length of the tamper evidencing band.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the spacing holes extend along the entire length of the tamper evidencing band.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the spacing holes are provided along one or both edge portions of the tamper evidencing band.

5. The method of any of claims 1 to 4, further comprising anchoring the one or more zipper sliders to the selected anchoring location with one or more zipper fasteners.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the one or more zipper fastening portions are separable from the tamper evidencing band and further comprising initially separating the one or more zipper fastening portions from the tamper evidencing band.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein the zipper slider comprises a zipper slider, the zipper slider or both having a zipper slider opening associated therewith, the method further comprising:

inserting one of the zipper fastening portions through the zipper slider opening into an adjacent zipper slider;

inserting the one of the zipper fastening portions through a selected one of the anchor locations; and

securing said one of said zipper fastening portions to itself.

8. The method of claim 5, wherein the zipper slider comprises a zipper slider, the zipper slider or both having a zipper slider opening associated therewith, the method further comprising:

passing one of the sliders of an adjacent slider through a selected one of the anchor locations;

inserting one of the zipper fastening portions through the opening into the adjacent zipper slider; and

securing said one of said zipper fastening portions to itself.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the zipper fastening portion comprises a twist tie.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the zipper fastening portion comprises a twist tie.

11. A luggage securing strap for luggage having one or more zippers with one or more zipper sliders, the strap being tamper evident and comprising a strap encircling the luggage and secured to itself, the strap comprising a plurality of holes, slits or equivalent openings longitudinally spaced along a substantial portion of the length of the strap to assist in securing the one or more zipper sliders to the strap.

12. The band of claim 11, wherein the hole, cut, or opening is provided along one or both edge portions of the band.

13. The band of claim 11, wherein the opening extends along the entire length of the band.

14. A security system for luggage, comprising:

the luggage strap of claim 11, wherein the luggage strap is a tamper evidence device, wherein breakage of the device in use is evidenced by the device itself; and

one or more zipper fastening portions for fastening the one or more zipper sliders.

15. The security system for luggage of claim 14, further comprising a receipt retained by a responsible party to the item, wherein the luggage cinch ring includes a unique identifier and the receipt includes a unique identifier corresponding to the unique identifier of the luggage cinch ring.

16. The security system for luggage of claim 15, wherein the zipper fastening portion has a unique identifier corresponding to the unique identifier of the luggage fastening strap.

17. A security system for luggage as claimed in claim 14 or 15, wherein each of the zip fasteners is insertable through an opening in an adjacent zip slider and through one of the holes, cutouts or openings in the luggage strap loop and is then securable to itself, wherein once so secured, breakage is alerted by the absence of the luggage strap or the zip fastener or the luggage strap or the absence of the zip fastener.

18. A security system for luggage as claimed in claim 15, in which the receipt is provided as a separate part from the luggage cinch strap.

19. The security system for luggage of claim 18, wherein the zipper fastening portion is provided as a portion that is separable from the luggage fastening strap.

20. The security system for luggage of claim 15, wherein the receipt is backed with an adhesive.

21. The security system for luggage of claim 20, wherein said receipt further comprises tamper evidence material to alert removal or intended removal of said receipt from any suitable surface to which said receipt is attached by means of an adhesive backing.

22. The security system for luggage of claim 16, wherein the unique identifier on the luggage cinch ring, the receipt portion, and the zipper fastening portion is displayed on a portion of tamper evidencing material.

23. The security system for luggage of claim 22, wherein said tamper evidencing material comprises: a transparent substrate layer; a visible layer non-uniformly bonded to the substrate layer; an adhesive layer disposed on the visible layer; and a release backing.