Bootie-wired eas tag

Abstract

A security tag assembly for placement around a boot includes a circuit board having a processor, and one or more wires electrically connected to the circuit board, the one or more wires forming a first opening and a second opening. The first opening and the second opening are respectively configured to receive a first component and a second component of the boot. The assembly further includes a tension switch connected to the one or more wires and having a closed position corresponding to a first tension level on the one or more wires and an open position corresponding to a second tension level on the one or more wires, wherein the second tension level is greater than the first tension level. Further, the processor is configured to monitor whether the tension switch is in at least the open position, wherein the processor is configured to trigger an alarm in response to the switch being in the open position.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 17 / 508,135, filed October 22, 2021, entitled “BOOT WIRE WRAP EAS TAG,” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 105,014, filed October 23, 2020, entitled “BOOT WIRE WRAP EAS TAG,” which are hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to electronic article surveillance (EAS). The present disclosure more specifically relates to EAS tags that include a wire wrap for boots and similar footwear merchandise. BACKGROUND

[0004] In an EAS system, tags are placed on inventory merchandise and an alarm is triggered if a reader detects a tag leaving a designated area. In many EAS systems, the reader includes both a transmitter and a receiver to detect any active tags passing between them. EAS technology includes electromagnetic (EM) systems, acousto-magnetic (AM) systems, and radio frequency (RF) systems. In some systems, tags remain attached to a product after it is sold, but the tag is deactivated to prevent detection by a reader. However, tags that remain attached to a product are designed to be inexpensive and easy to tamper with.

[0005] Expensive merchandise is often protected with more robust tags that can have a hard plastic housing, attachment methods that can only be removed with special equipment, and anti-tampering measures such as releasing a liquid dye. However, some attachment methods can damage the merchandise being sold. For example, one common attachment method requires a metal pin to be pierced through the merchandise, which is then secured in the body of the tag. This attachment method can leave a permanent mark on the merchandise, which can reduce a consumer’s expectations of the merchandise.

[0006] In footwear sales, some methods of attaching tags can interfere with a consumer’s ability to try on the footwear. For example, a pair of boots can be laced together using a cut-resistant cord, making it difficult to walk while wearing the boots; or a portion of the tag can need to be placed inside the boots, making the boots uncomfortable to wear. Since footwear is often sold in pairs, potential thieves can be deterred if each pair of shoes is only displayed with one shoe. However, when a consumer wants to try on a pair, a sales associate must go retrieve the matching footwear item, which is a time-inefficient practice and can leave the store unattended.

[0007] Wound label provides a possible solution for the specific EAS requirements of footwear. However, existing wound label designs have two hard plastic components connected by four wires. These designs work well for attaching to a cuboid object, such as a retail item packed in a box, but when attached to a footwear item, either the attachment is not secure or there is one or more loose connecting wires after attachment. SUMMARY

[0008] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to an EAS device configured to be securely attachable to a boot or similar footwear item without damaging the footwear and having a tension switch that can trigger an alarm when a threshold amount of tension is applied to one or more wires of the EAS device. Further, the threshold amount of tension can be configured, for example, to enable a consumer to wear the footwear item unimpeded without triggering the alarm.

[0010] In one example aspect, a security tag assembly for placement around a boot includes a circuit board having a processor and one or more wires electrically connected to the circuit board, where the one or more wires form a first opening and a second opening, where the first opening is configured to receive a first component of the boot and the second opening is configured to receive a second component of the boot. Additionally, the security tag includes a tension switch connected to the one or more wires and having a closed position corresponding to a first tension level on the one or more wires and an open position corresponding to a second tension level on the one or more wires, where the second tension level is greater than the first tension level. Additionally, the processor is configured to monitor whether the tension switch is in at least the open position, where the processor is configured to trigger an alarm in response to the switch being in the open position.

[0011] Additional advantages and novel features of implementations related to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following and upon having the benefit of the description presented below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] The various objects, aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, along with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements.

[0013] Figure 1A Perspective view of a boot with an attached tag according to some aspects.

[0014] Figure 1B Second perspective view of a boot with an attached tag according to some aspects.

[0015] Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of a zero component in a boot lead tag according to some aspects

[0016] Figure 3 Circuit diagram of a tension switch in a boot lead tag according to some aspects.

[0017] Figure 4A Cross-sectional view of an in-line tension switch in a closed state according to some aspects.

[0018] Figure 4B Cross-sectional view of an in-line tension switch in an open state according to some aspects.

[0019] Figure 5A Perspective view of an in-line tension switch according to some aspects.

[0020] Figure 5B Front view of an in-line tension switch according to some aspects.

[0021] Figure 6 Perspective view of an in-line tension switch according to some aspects.

[0022] Figure 7 Cross-sectional view of a terminal tension switch according to some aspects.

[0023] Figure 8A Cross-sectional view of a terminal tension switch in a closed position according to some aspects.

[0024] Figure 8B Cross-sectional view of a terminal tension switch in an open position according to some aspects.

[0025] Figure 9 Perspective view of an exploded assembly of a tag according to some aspects.

[0026] Figure 10A Perspective view of a tag with a locking latch in an unlocked position according to some aspects.

[0027] Figure 10B Perspective view of a tag with a locking latch in a locked position, according to some aspects.

[0028] Figure 11 Diagram of a method of fastening a first wire to a second wire, according to some aspects.

[0029] Figure 12 Cross-sectional view of a tag containing both an inline tension switch and a terminal tension switch, according to some aspects.

[0030] Figure 13 Cross-sectional view of an inline tension switch for a wire comprising two conductors, according to some aspects.

[0031] Figure 14A Cross-sectional view of a flat inline tension switch, according to some aspects.

[0032] Figure 14B Cross-sectional view of a flat inline tension switch from another perspective, according to some aspects.

[0033] Figure 14C Cross-sectional view of a curved flat inline tension switch, according to some aspects.

[0034] Figure 15A Cross-sectional view of an example of an inline tension switch containing a back-to-back pogo pin assembly in a closed or connected state or position.

[0035] Figure 15B Cross-sectional view of an inline tension switch of Figure 15A in an open or disconnected state or position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] SUMMARY

[0037] Turning now to Figure 1A , a perspective view of a boot with an attached tag is shown, according to some aspects. Figure 1B The same boot is shown from a perspective that is not completely from below. The boot 103 includes pull tabs 101 and 102, a shaft 104, an upper 111, a heel 112, a counter 110, a heel counter 115, a instep 117, a sole 118, a toe 113, and an outsole 116.

[0038] Boot wire tag

[0039] Boot cord tag 106 includes tags 107 and 108 connected by cords 105, 109, and 114. Cords 109 and 105 loop around shaft 104. Cord 109 loops over upper 111, cord 105 loops over counter 110, and cord 114 loops under arch 117.

[0040] Tag 120 is an alternative aspect of tag 107. With respect to the arrangement of the cords, boot cord tag 119 can be considered equivalent to boot cord tag 106.

[0041] Cords 105, 109, 114 are of appropriate length so as not to damage boot 103, yet prevent boot cord tag 106 from being removed. Cord 114 restricts movement of boot cord tag 106 so as to prevent cords 105 and 109 from passing over the top of shaft 104, even if shaft 104 is deformed by a potential thief using their hand. Cord 114 is stapled to heel counter 115 to prevent removal from heel 112. The length of cord 105 prevents its removal from heel 112, and the length of cord 109 prevents its removal from toe 113.

[0042] In some aspects, boot cord tag 106 can be attached in a variety of arrangements, so long as tags 107 and 108 are placed on opposite sides of boot 103, one of the three cords loops under arch 117, and the remaining two cords loop around shaft 104.

[0043] In some aspects, a length of cord can be used to connect all components. For example, starting at tag 108, following the path of cord 105, through tag 107, following the path of cord 114, through tag 108, and following the path of cord 109 back to tag 107. Any number of cords can be used, including multiple independent cords following the same path. For example, two independent lengths of cord following the path of cord 114.

[0044] The cord used in a boot cord tag assembly can be a steel cable; a conductive core surrounded by a plastic or rubber insulator; multiple conductive cores each surrounded by a plastic or rubber insulator; or some other type of cord. In some aspects, the cord includes components that make the cord more difficult to cut, such as a steel cable or a braided steel outer sheath.

[0045] In some aspects, cord 114 loops through block 121, which can be a inline tension switch, such as Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4A-4BThe block 121 can be free to move along the wire 114, or the block 121 can be pinned in place along the length of the wire 114. The purpose of the block 121 can be to further pin the wire 121 in place adjacent to the counter 115, and the exterior surface of the block 121 can be coated with a high-friction material to achieve this purpose. The block 121 can have a generally triangular, square, circular, or some other shape in cross-section.

[0046] In some aspects, any or all of the wires 105, 109, and 114 can have a block similar to the block 121. The purpose of the block can be to act as an inline tension switch, to prevent lateral swaying of the wire, to prevent the tension of the wire from damaging the boot 103, another purpose, or a combination of these purposes. The shape of the block can match the profile of the location in which it is placed, such as a flattened, curved shape can match the counter 110, or two edges arranged at 90 degrees can match the junction of the counter 115 and the arch 117.

[0047] Turning now to Figure 2 , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of the subcomponents of a boot wire tag is shown. The boot wire tag 200 includes a tag 201, an inline tension switch 206, a tag 211, and connecting wires 204, 207, and 208. The lengths of the connecting wires 204, 207, and 208 shown are for illustrative purposes only, and actual aspects can use wires of any length.

[0048] An example arrangement of the boot wire tag 200 can be the tag 201 in the location of the tag 107, Figure 1A the tag 211 in the location of the tag 108, Figure 1A and the inline tension switch 206 in the location of the block 121. Figure 1B In this arrangement, the wire 204 would be in the location of the wire 114, the wire 208 would be in the location of the wire 105, and the wire 207 would be in the location of the wire 109.

[0049] The tag 201 further includes a housing 202, which can be plastic, metal, or another durable, tamper-resistant material, and a circuit board 203, which can further include an alarm speaker, an LED, a battery, passive electrical components, an integrated circuit chip, and / or other components as desired. Possible aspects of the tag 201 are described with respect to Figure 9 and FIG. 10.

[0050] The inline tension switch 206 further includes a housing 205, which can be plastic, metal, or another durable, tamper-resistant material, and electrical contacts 209 and 210. The separation of the electrical contacts 209 and 210 under tension can be used to deactivate the switch. Possible aspects of the inline tension switch 206 are described with respect to Figure 4A-4B , Figure 5A-5Band Figure 6 Possible aspects of the inline tension switch 206 are described.

[0051] The tag 211 further comprises a housing 212, which can be plastic, metal or other durable, tamper-resistant material; an EAS component 213, which can be an acousto-magnetic (AM) tag, an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag, an electromagnetic (EM) tag, a radio frequency (RF) tag, a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag or other type of tag; and a terminal tension switch 214. Regarding Figure 7 and Figure 8A- Figure 8B Possible aspects of the tag 211 are described.

[0052] Turning now to Figure 3 , according to some aspects, a circuit diagram of the tension switch is shown. The boot conductor tag can comprise circuit loops 306 and 303. The circuit loop 306 can further comprise switches 307 and 309 corresponding to electrical contacts 209 and 210, respectively, of Figure 2 The circuit loop 303 can further comprise a switch 310 corresponding to the terminal tension switch 214 of Figure 2 The conductors 305 and 308 can be incorporated into the same conductor, for example, the conductor 207. Conductor loop monitors 301 and 304 monitor the status of the switches in the circuit loops 303 and 306, respectively. The conductor loop monitors 301 and 304 can be separate components, for example, integrated circuit chips, or an arrangement of electronic components. In some aspects, the conductor loop monitors 301 and 304 are incorporated into a component 302; the component can be an integrated circuit chip, a microcontroller or similar electronic component.

[0053] The switches 307, 309 and 310 can be normally closed switches that open when tension in the conductor increases. The conductor loop monitors 301 and 304 can use any known method to detect a circuit break caused by the switches opening, and trigger an alarm state. This method can also trigger an alarm state if any of the conductors are cut, as this will also cause a circuit break.

[0054] Turning now to Figure 4AAccording to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of an in-line tension switch in a closed state is shown. Wire 401 passes through aperture 402 into housing 410 and makes an electrically conductive connection with plug 404; and wire 409 passes through aperture 408 into housing 410 and makes an electrically conductive connection with plug 406. In the closed position, plugs 404 and 406 are in physical contact with sleeve 405. Plugs 404 and 406 and sleeve 405 are made of an electrically conductive material such that in the closed position they form an electrically conductive path between wire 401 and wire 409. Spring 403 is wedged between the inside surface of aperture 402 and plug 404 and acts to push plug 404 into contact with sleeve 405. Similarly, spring 407 is wedged between the inside surface of aperture 408 and plug 406 and acts to push plug 406 into contact with sleeve 405.

[0055] In some aspects, further travel of plugs 404 and 406 into the center of sleeve 405 is prevented by tension on wires 401 and 409, respectively. In some aspects, a partition is inserted into sleeve 405 approximately halfway along its length. The partition can be electrically conductive or non-conductive and limits the distance that plugs 404 and 406 can travel into sleeve 405.

[0056] In some aspects, sleeve 405 is replaced with a clip or other shaped metal. The clip can apply a compressive force on the side of the plug, e.g., plug 404 or plug 406, to ensure that electrical contact is maintained.

[0057] Turning now to Figure 4B According to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of an in-line tension switch in an open state is shown. Tension on wire 411 in direction 420 causes plug 414 to compress spring 413 against the inside edge of aperture 412. Additionally, the movement of plug 414 breaks electrical contact with sleeve 415, causing the circuit to open. Alternatively or additionally, tension on wire 419 in direction 421 causes plug 416 to compress spring 417 against the inside edge of aperture 418. Additionally, the movement of plug 416 breaks electrical contact with sleeve 415, causing the circuit to open.

[0058] When the tension on wire 411 is reduced, the force exerted by spring 413 pushes plug 414 back into electrical contact with sleeve 415, closing that portion of the switch. Similarly, when the tension on wire 419 is reduced, the force exerted by spring 417 pushes plug 416 back into electrical contact with sleeve 415, closing that portion of the switch. When the tension on both wires 411 and 419 is low enough, an electrically conductive path is formed between wires 411 and 419.

[0059] In some aspects, springs 413 and 417 can be replaced with metal, plastic, or other material that elastically deforms under the tension on wires 411 and 419. Upon reduction of the tension, the elastically deformed material can return to its original shape and, in doing so, push the plug or similar electrical contact back into contact with the sleeve 415. In some aspects, the assembly is arranged so that the plug or similar electrical contact is pulled into contact with the sleeve 415 or similar electrically conductive bridge.

[0060] In-line tension switches can be designed to have an acceptable travel distance before a break in the circuit occurs. This can be used, for example, to accommodate bending in a boot or similar article of footwear while the boot or similar article of footwear is being tried on, and / or to prevent accidental activation of an alarm while the boot or similar article of footwear is being moved. The acceptable travel distance can be configured according to the length of the sleeve 415 selection. For example, the longer the length of the sleeve 415, the longer the travel allowed for the plugs 414 and 416 before losing contact with the sleeve 415.

[0061] Turning now to Figure 5A , according to some aspects, a perspective view of an in-line tension switch is shown. The cross-section of the in-line tension switch housing 501 can be a Reuleaux triangle, as shown in Figure 5B , Figure 5B is an elevation view as seen from direction 504. The in-line tension switch housing 501 can further include a curved recess around the orifice through which the wires enter the housing, such as recess 502 surrounding wire 503. The force exerted on the wire as it bends after exiting the orifice is dissipated by the curved recess.

[0062] Turning now to Figure 6 , according to some aspects, a perspective view of the internal components of an in-line tension switch is shown. The components shown are equivalent to the components shown in Figure 4A and Figure 4B . The in-line tension switch 600 includes two halves of a housing 608 and 606. Wire 609 forms an electrically conductive connection with plug 604; and wire 601 forms an electrically conductive connection with plug 403. Spring 607 pushes plug 604 into sleeve 605, establishing an electrical connection. Spring 602 pushes plug 603 into sleeve 605, establishing an electrical connection. Pulling on wire 609 will pull plug 604 out of sleeve 605, breaking the electrical contact, and compressing spring 607. Pulling on wire 601 will pull plug 603 out of sleeve 605, breaking the electrical contact, and compressing spring 602.

[0063] Turning now to Figure 7 , according to some aspects, a perspective view of an in-line tension switch is shown, for example Figure 2FIG. 7 is a detailed view of the terminal tension switch of the terminal tension switch 214. The wire 706 includes an inner conductor 710 and an outer conductor 708 separated by a dielectric insulator 709. The wire 706 further includes an insulating jacket 707. The components of the wire 706 can be similar to a coaxial cable. A portion of the inner conductor 704 is connected to the plug 703. All other component elements of the wire 706 can terminate at or before an insulating base 705, which can have a wire crimp or other mechanical assembly to securely couple the plug 703 to the wire 706. The bypass wire 702 connects the outer conductor 708 to the contact plate 701. Both the contact plate 701 and the plug 704 are made of an electrically conductive material. When the contact plate 701 and the plug 703 are in physical contact, current can flow from the outer conductor 708, through the bypass wire 702, through the contact plate 701, through the plug 703, and into the inner conductor 710, or in the reverse direction.

[0064] In some aspects, the wire 706 includes two parallel wires, a twisted pair, or some other conductor arrangement.

[0065] Turning now to Figure 8A , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of a terminal tension switch is shown in the closed position. The wire 805 includes two conductors insulated from each other, one of which is connected to the plug 802 and the other of which is connected to the contact plate 801 via the bypass wire 803, as described with respect to Figure 7 . The spring 804 exerts a force on the plug 802 to urge the plug 802 into contact with the contact plate 801.

[0066] Turning now to Figure 8B , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of a terminal tension switch is shown in the open position. When a force is applied to the wire 809 in the direction 808, the plug 806 is pulled in the same direction and no longer in contact with the contact plate 801. This action breaks the electrical circuit between the two conductors in the wire 809. The motion of the plug 806 compresses the spring 807. When the force on the wire 809 is reduced, the spring 807 exerts a force to urge the plug 806 back into contact with the contact plate 801.

[0067] In some aspects, the contact plate 801 includes features that extend around the edges of the plug 806 to maintain contact over a range of positions of the plug 806. These features can include one or more surfaces that extend perpendicularly from the contact plate 801, a sleeve that replaces the contact plate 801 similar to the sleeve of 405, Figure 4A , additional conductive plates or rings connected to the bypass wire 803, or other features. The purpose of these features can be to create an acceptable range of motion for the plug 806. For example, to accommodate the flexing of a boot or similar footwear item when tried on by a consumer.

[0068] Turning now to Figure 9 , a perspective view of the exploded components of a tag, such as tag 201 of FIG. 1, is shown in accordance with some aspects. Tag 900 includes upper housing 901, spring 902, retaining pin 903, retaining pin support 904, locking latch 905, ratchet arm 906, circuit board 910, grip wheel 911, ratchet housing 913, mounting platform 914, lower housing 915, and battery cover 916. Figure 2

[0069] Circuit board 910 further includes LED 909 and alarm speaker 907. If tag 900 enters an alarm state, alarm speaker 907 emits a high decibel alarm and LED 909 flashes rapidly. Tag 900 can enter an alarm state if the connecting wire is cut, if tension on the connecting wire activates a tension switch, if tag 900 detects that it is being removed from a store or for other reasons. LED 909 can also communicate other information by flashing combinations, such as a periodic, infrequent flash to indicate normal operation, and / or a high frequency flash to indicate low battery power.

[0070] In some aspects, there is a delay between detection of a circuit break and tag 900 entering an alarm state. For example, a two second delay method can be used, such that if the monitored circuit is restored within two seconds, no alarm is sounded. This can accommodate situations where tension on the connecting wire is temporarily increased, such as can occur when a boot is temporarily bent while being tried on, which can momentarily trigger a tension switch and cause a momentary break in the circuit.

[0071] In some aspects, tag 900 includes a mechanism to wind excess connecting wire. The connecting wires of a boot wire tag, such as wires 105, 109, and 114 of FIG. 1, can be slack, allowing a person to more easily position the boot wire tag on a boot or similar footwear item. The winding mechanism in tag 900 can then be used to eliminate the slack in the connecting wire and to secure the boot wire tag in place. Figure 9 The components of FIG. 9 are used in a system where a portion of tag 900 is to be rotated, which in turn pulls excess wire into the housing, where it is stored in the form of a spiral.

[0072] ​In some aspects, the handle wheel 911 is securely coupled to the mounting platform 914 and force can be applied to cause the coupled pair to rotate freely relative to the housing components 913 and 915. The spring 902, the fixed pin 903, the fixed pin support 904, the locking latch 905, the ratchet arm 906, and the circuit board 910 can rotate along with the handle wheel 911. When the locking latch 905 slides into the locked position, the fixed pin 903 drops under the action of the spring 902 and the locking latch 905 is secured in place. When the locking latch is in the locked position and the handle wheel 911 is rotated, the sawtooth feature 908 on the ratchet arm 906 engages with the sawtooth feature 912 located around the inner circumference of the ratchet housing 913. The ratchet arm 906 can be forced into engagement under the action of a spring (not shown). The engagement of the sawtooth features 908 and 912 enables the handle wheel 911 to rotate in one direction, but not in the opposite direction. By this method, the connection wire can be tightened, but not loosened.

[0073] The connection wires of the boot strap tag, such as the wires 105, 109, and 114, can enter the tag 900 through an opening in the lower housing 915, pass through an opening in the mounting platform 914, and be securely coupled to the circuit board 910. Rotation of the mounting platform 914 relative to the lower housing 915 can pull the connection wires into the body of the tag 900, forming a spiral wire within the cavity between the mounting platform 914 and the lower housing 915.

[0074] In some aspects, the battery cover 916 is welded or glued in place during assembly of the tag 900. In some aspects, the battery cover 916 can be removed by unscrewing a retaining screw, releasing a magnetic latch using a magnet, or some other method. Removal of the battery cover 916 can facilitate replacement of the battery. When the tag 900 is located on an article of footwear, the battery cover 916 is oriented toward the article of footwear and is therefore difficult to access and / or tamper with. In some aspects, the tag 900 includes an inductive charging circuit, a charging port, or other method of charging the internal rechargeable battery.

[0075] Turning now to Figure 10A , a perspective view of a tag is shown with the locking latch in the unlocked position, according to some aspects. Note that the components in Figure 10A are shown rotated 180 degrees relative to those shown in Figure 9 . The handle wheel 1004 includes a plurality of radial protrusions 1001 that one can use to securely grasp the handle wheel 1004. In the unlocked position, the locking latch 1005 protrudes from the edge of the handle wheel 1004. To transition to the locked position, the locking latch 1005 is pushed into the housing.

[0076] Turning now to Figure 10B, according to some aspects, a perspective view of a tag with the locking latch in the locked position is shown. In the locked position, the locking latch 1005 is no longer protruding from the handle wheel 1004. The locking latch 1005 can be held in the locked position by, for example Figure 9 , a retaining pin 903. The retaining pin can be made of a ferromagnetic material. In this case, to release the retaining pin, and in doing so, the locking latch 1005, a magnet can be placed in close proximity to the protrusion 1006. The retaining pin is pulled towards the magnet and the locking latch 1005 is released. The locking latch 1005 can be pushed into the unlocked position under the action of a spring. With the locking latch 1005 released, the handle wheel 1004 can be freely rotated and in doing so, any wire wound into the alarm tag can be released.

[0077] In some aspects, the delay in insertion of the locking latch 1005 helps to adjust the boot wire tag to the correct tension. One can place the boot wire tag on the article of footwear in the proper arrangement and then begin to rotate the handle wheel 1004 to reduce the length of the connecting wire. With the locking latch 1005 in the unlocked position, the handle wheel 1004 can be rotated in both directions, i.e. to tighten and loosen the connecting wire. One can continue to tighten the connecting wire until the tag indicates that it has entered the alarm state. This can indicate that the tension switch has been activated. One can then reverse the rotation of the handle wheel 1004 the desired distance to loosen the connecting wire and then set the locking latch 1005 to the locked position. In some aspects, the initial period after entering the alarm state uses an intermittent or lower decibel alarm, indicates the alarm state by using only an LED, or uses some other method to help properly tighten the boot wire tag without activating the full alarm.

[0078] In some aspects, two ratchet mechanisms are used. For example, the tag 107 and the tag 108 of FIG. 1 can both include a ratchet mechanism. Using both ratchet mechanisms simultaneously or alternately can tighten a slack wire at both ends. If one or more wires have an inline tension switch located at the midpoint of the wire, using two ratchet mechanisms to symmetrically shorten the wire ensures that the inline tension switch remains in the middle of the exposed length of the wire.

[0079] Turning now to Figure 11 , according to some aspects, a diagram of a method of buckling a first wire to a second wire is shown. For example Figure 2 , the tag of the tag 211 can be replaced with a looped wire connection. The wire 1102 is equivalent to the wire 208 of Figure 2 , and the wire 1101 is equivalent to the wire 207 of Figure 2 . In some aspects, the wire 1101 can loop around the wire 1102 and then be buckled with a retaining clip 1103. The loop formed in the wire 1101 can be aligned with the hole in the wire 1102. Figure 2The tag 211 is free to move along the length of the wire 1102 in the same manner as described above. If the wire 1101 includes two conductors 1104 and 1105, for example, to detect if the wire has been cut, the conductive end cap 1106 can be used to complete the circuit.

[0080] Turning now to Figure 12 , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of a tag containing both an inline tension switch and a terminal tension switch is shown. The tag 1200 can include both an inline tension switch 1201 and a terminal tension switch 1202. This eliminates the need to install an inline tension switch at other points along the length of the wire.

[0081] Turning now to Figure 13 , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of an inline tension switch for a wire including two conductors is shown. The dual conductor inline tension switch 1300 includes the same components as Figure 4A described above, but accommodates a wire having two conductors, as described above with respect to Figure 7 The dual conductor inline tension switch 1300 includes a bypass conductor 1302 to which the outer conductors 1301 and 1303 are attached. The path of the inner conductor can be broken under tension, as described above with respect to Figure 4B However, the paths of the outer conductors remain intact. In some aspects, the components are arranged such that tension on the wire will break the electrical path of both the inner conductor and the outer conductors. For example, by dividing the conductive plugs of the plugs 404 and 406, for example, into two separate parts that are insulated from each other, and using a sleeve that is zoned and insulated in a similar manner. Figure 4A

[0082] Turning now to Figure 14A , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of a flat inline tension switch is shown. The flat inline tension switch 1400 operates using the same principles as Figure 4A and Figure 4B described above. However, the plugs, for example, plugs 404 and 406, are replaced with conductive blades 1403 and 1404. The conductive blades 1403 and 1404 can have slots 1401 that receive tabs 1402 to guide their movement.

[0083] Figure 14B The dual conductor inline tension switch 1300 is shown from another perspective Figure 14A ​flat in-line tension switch. The conductive blades 1403 and 1404 have a raised portion, such as raised portion 1401. In the closed position, the raised portion of the blades is in contact with the conductive bridge 1405, which enables current to flow between the blades 1403 and 1404. When one or more of the wires is subjected to tension, the blades move laterally. Under sufficient tension, the blades can move to a position where their raised portions are no longer in contact with the conductive bridge 1405, which interrupts the flow of power.

[0084] Turning now to Figure 14C , according to some aspects, a cross-sectional view of a curved flat in-line tension switch is shown. In some aspects, the in-line tension switch can be curved or have other shapes to match the location in which it will be placed. For example, the in-line tension switch can be curved to match the curve of the backstay.

[0085] Turning now to Figure 15A and 15B , a cross-sectional view of another example of an in-line tension switch 1500 includes a back-to-back pogo pin assembly 1508 in a closed or connected state or position Figure 15A and, in one example, an open or disconnected state or position Figure 15B . The in-line tension switch 1500 works using the back-to-back pogo pin assembly 1508, which includes a movable spring-loaded pin that is electrically connected to a circuit for triggering an alarm. The in-line tension switch 1500 includes a tension switch housing 1501 having a first chamber that houses a movable first contact plate 1504 fixedly mounted to a wire 1502 and a second chamber that houses a movable second contact plate 1505 fixedly mounted to a wire 1503. The in-line tension switch 1500 further includes a first spring member 1506 within the first chamber that is connected at a first end to the first contact plate 1504 and at a second end to a first open end of the switch housing 1501. The in-line tension switch 1500 further includes a second spring member 1507 within the second chamber that is connected at a first end to the second contact plate 1505 and at a second end to a second open end of the switch housing 1501. The back-to-back pogo pin assembly 1508 is located between the first contact plate 1504 and the second contact plate 1505, such as but not limited to in the center of the tension switch housing 1501.

[0086] The pogo pin assembly 1508 includes a first plug member and a second plug member that are movable relative to each other within the plug housing. Further, the first plug member and the second plug member are biased away from each other and toward respective adjacent first and second contact plates 1504, 1505 by respective first and second internal spring members positioned between the wall and a respective one of the first and second plug members. Each of the first and second internal spring members exerts a force pushing the corresponding first and second plug members in opposite directions toward the first and second contact plates 1504, 1505, respectively. The first and second internal spring members are configured with sufficient spring force to resist the spring force of a respective one of the first and second spring members 1506, 1507 such that each contact plate 1504, 1505 contacts the corresponding first or second plug member of the pogo pin assembly 1508 when an amount of force on either or both of the wires 1502, 1503 is less than a threshold amount of tension configured to trigger an alarm.

[0087] Thus, as Figure 15A explained in the closed or connected state of Figure 15B Alternatively, as explained in the open or disconnected state of

[0088] Example Embodiments

[0089] The following paragraphs include example embodiments of aspects described herein.

[0090] Aspect 1. A security tag assembly for placement around a boot, comprising:

[0091] a circuit board including a processor;

[0092] one or more wires electrically connected to the circuit board, wherein the one or more wires form a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first opening is configured to receive a first component of the boot and the second opening is configured to receive a second component of the boot;

[0093] a tension switch connected to the one or more wires and having a closed position corresponding to a first tension level on the one or more wires and an open position corresponding to a second tension level on the one or more wires, wherein the second tension level is greater than the first tension level; and

[0094] wherein the processor is configured to monitor whether the tension switch is in at least the open position, wherein the processor is configured to trigger an alarm in response to the switch being in the open position.

[0095] Aspect 2. The security tag assembly of Aspect 1, wherein at least a length of the one or more wires is configured to prevent the security tag assembly from being removed from the boot.

[0096] Aspect 3. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the first component of the boot is a shaft and the second component of the boot is a shank.

[0097] Aspect 4. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the one or more wires is only a single wire for forming both the first opening and the second opening and, in turn, is configured to receive both the first component of the boot and the second component of the boot.

[0098] Aspect 5. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the tension switch further comprises:

[0099] a switch housing having an inner wall defining a chamber having an open end, wherein the chamber extends into the switch housing;

[0100] a contact member mounted within the chamber;

[0101] a plug mounted within the chamber and electrically connected to the one or more wires;

[0102] wherein at least one of the plug or the contact plate is movable within the chamber between a first position in which an electrically conductive connection is formed between the plug and the contact member and a second position in which a gap is formed between the plug and the contact member; and

[0103] a spring member mounted within the chamber and in contact with the at least one of the plug or the contact member, wherein the spring member has a spring force configured to bias the plug into contact with the contact member.

[0104] Aspect 6. The security tag of any of the preceding aspects, wherein:

[0105] the chamber includes another open end to define an opening through the switch housing;

[0106] the contact member includes a sleeve member having at least one wall defining a first contact surface and a second contact surface;

[0107] the plug includes a first plug member and a second plug member, wherein the first plug member is connected to a first end of the one or more wires and the second plug member is connected to a second end of the one or more wires, wherein the first plug member is movable within the chamber between a first closed position in which the first plug member makes electrical contact with a first end of the sleeve member and a first open position in which the first plug member is spaced apart from the first end of the sleeve member, and wherein the second plug member is movable within the chamber between a second closed position in which the second plug member makes electrical contact with a second end of the sleeve member and a second open position in which the second plug member is spaced apart from the second end of the sleeve member; and

[0108] the spring member includes a first spring member and a second spring member, wherein the first spring member biases the first plug member toward the first closed position and the second spring member biases the second plug member toward the second closed position.

[0109] Aspect 7. The security tag of any of the above aspects, wherein

[0110] the contact member comprises a contact plate fixedly mounted at an end of the chamber opposite the open end; and

[0111] the spring member is mounted between the open end of the chamber and the plug and in contact with the plug.

[0112] Aspect 8. The security tag of any of the above aspects, further comprising:

[0113] wherein the plug comprises a movable first contact plate and a movable second contact plate fixedly mounted to a free end of each of the one or more wires, respectively;

[0114] wherein the spring member includes a first external spring member and a second external spring member, the first and second external spring members each connected at a first end to a respective contact plate and at a second end to a respective open end of the switch housing;

[0115] wherein the contact member includes a first plug member and a second plug member, wherein the first plug member and the second plug member are configured to be movable relative to one another;

[0116] a first internal spring member and a second internal spring member, wherein the first internal spring member exerts a first force and the second internal spring member exerts a second force, thereby biasing the first plug member and the second plug member in opposite directions toward the first contact plate and the second contact plate, respectively; and

[0117] wherein in the closed position, the first contact plate forms an electrical connection with the first plug member and the second contact plate forms an electrical connection with the second plug member.

[0118] Aspect 9. The security tag of any of the above aspects, wherein:

[0119] the contact member includes a bridge member having at least one wall defining a first contact surface and a second contact surface; and

[0120] the plug includes a first blade member connected to the one or more wires at a first end and a second blade member connected to the one or more wires at a second end, wherein each of the first blade member and the second blade member are configured to move within the chamber to form an electrical connection with the bridge member.

[0121] Aspect 10. The security tag of any of the above aspects, wherein the tension switch further comprises:

[0122] a switch housing having an inner wall defining an opening through the switch housing;

[0123] a sleeve connected to the switch housing inside the opening, wherein the sleeve includes a wall defining a sleeve opening having a first opening end and a second opening end;

[0124] a first plug connected to the one or more wires, wherein the first plug is movable within the opening between a first position in which the first plug forms a first electrically conductive connection with the first opening end of the sleeve and a second position in which the first plug is spaced apart from the first opening end of the sleeve;

[0125] a second plug connected to the one or more wires, wherein the second plug is movable within the opening between a third position in which the second plug forms a second electrically conductive connection with the second open end of the sleeve and a fourth position in which the second plug is spaced apart from the second open end of the sleeve;

[0126] a first spring member mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a first end of the opening and the first plug; and

[0127] a second spring member mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a second end of the opening and the second plug.

[0128] Aspect 11. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein in the open position, a tension is present in the one or more wires, and wherein at least one of the first spring member or the second spring member is compressed such that an electrical connection between at least one of the first plug and the second plug and the sleeve is broken.

[0129] Aspect 12. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein an amount of the compression corresponds to the second tension level in the one or more wires.

[0130] Aspect 13. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein at least one of the one or more wires further includes a block, wherein the block is configured to prevent the one or more wires from moving on an outer surface of the boot and to prevent the one or more wires from damaging the boot, and wherein a shape of the block matches a shape of the boot in which the block is located.

[0131] Aspect 14. The block of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the block can further include an additional switch.

[0132] Aspect 15. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the one or more wires are arranged to form:

[0133] a circular loop; and

[0134] a semi-circular loop at an angle of at least 70 degrees from the circular loop.

[0135] Aspect 16. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, further comprising the alarm electrically connected to the circuit board and in electrical communication with the processor.

[0136] Aspect 17. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the alarm comprises at least one of an audio speaker that produces audible sound or an illumination device that produces visible light.

[0137] Aspect 18. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, further comprising a security tag member.

[0138] Aspect 19. The security tag assembly of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the security tag member includes at least one of an acousto-magnetic tag or a radio frequency tag.

[0139] Aspect 20. A security tag assembly for placement around a boot, comprising:

[0140] a security tag housing, at least a first wire, a second wire, and a third wire, and a first tension switch and a second tension switch;

[0141] wherein the security tag housing is configured to house a circuit board including a processor, a security tag member including at least one of an acousto-magnetic tag or a radio frequency tag, and an alarm electrically connected to the circuit board and in electrical communication with the processor;

[0142] wherein the first tension switch further comprises:

[0143] a first switch housing having an inner wall defining an opening through the switch housing;

[0144] a sleeve connected to the switch housing inside the opening, wherein the sleeve includes a wall defining a sleeve opening having a first opening end and a second opening end;

[0145] a first plug connected to the one or more wires, wherein the first plug is movable within the opening between a first position in which the first plug forms a first conductive connection with the first opening end of the sleeve and a second position in which the first plug is spaced apart from the first opening end of the sleeve;

[0146] a second plug connected to the one or more wires, wherein the second plug is movable within the opening between a third position in which the second plug forms a second conductive connection with the second opening end of the sleeve and a fourth position in which the second plug is spaced apart from the second opening end of the sleeve;

[0147] a first spring member mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a first end of the first switch housing and the first plug; and

[0148] a second spring member mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a second end of the first switch housing and the second plug; and

[0149] wherein the second tension switch comprises:

[0150] a second switch housing having an inner wall defining a chamber configured to extend partially through the switch housing;

[0151] a contact plate mounted within the chamber;

[0152] a third plug mounted within the chamber and electrically connected to the third wire;

[0153] wherein the third plug is movable within the chamber between a first position in which an electrically conductive connection is formed between the third plug and the contact plate and a second position in which a gap is formed between the plug and the contact member; and

[0154] a third spring member mounted within the chamber and in contact with the third plug, wherein the third spring member has a spring force configured to bias the third plug into contact with the contact plate.

[0155] Aspect 21. An electrical switch that breaks under tension, comprising:

[0156] an electrically conductive bridge

[0157] a first electrically conductive wire and a second electrically conductive wire, the first and second electrically conductive wires being in contact with the electrically conductive bridge;

[0158] a spring in contact with each electrically conductive wire, the spring exerting a force to maintain contact of the wire with the electrically conductive bridge; and

[0159] a housing that directs tension acting on each wire to act against the spring of each wire;

[0160] wherein tension exerted on either electrically conductive wire above a threshold amount breaks the contact between the wire and the electrically conductive bridge.

[0161] Another aspect includes a method of attaching an EAS device comprising any of the aspects described above to a boot. The method comprises: buckling two ends of a first segment of wire to the device; wrapping the first segment of wire around a shaft of the boot; buckling a first end of a second segment of wire to the device; wrapping the second segment of wire under an arch of the boot; and buckling a second end of the second segment of wire to the first segment of wire.

[0162] Configuration of exemplary aspects

[0163] The configuration and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various exemplary aspects are merely illustrative. Although several aspects have been described in detail, modifications can be made to them without departing from the scope of the disclosure (for example, variations to the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc. and the like). By way of example, elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be modified or changed. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps can be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative aspects. Other alternatives, modifications, variations, and

[0164] Although the above description can include a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps can differ from what is described. Also, two or more steps can be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A security tag assembly for placement around a boot, comprising: A circuit board, the circuit board including a processor; One or more wires electrically connected to the circuit board, wherein the one or more wires form a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first opening is configured to receive a first component of the boot and the second opening is configured to receive a second component of the boot. A tension switch, connected to one or more conductors, having a closed position corresponding to a first tension level on the one or more conductors and an open position corresponding to a second tension level on the one or more conductors, wherein the second tension level is greater than the first tension level, and wherein the open position of the tension switch is capable of returning to the closed position due to changes in the tension level; and The processor is configured to monitor whether the tension switch is in at least the open position, and the processor is configured to trigger an alarm in response to the switch being in the open position.

2. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one segment of the one or more wires is configured to prevent the security tag assembly from being removed from the boot.

3. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein the first component of the boot is a boot shaft, and the second component of the boot is a boot bridge.

4. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more wires are only a single wire for forming both the first opening and the second opening, and are further configured to receive both the first component and the second component of the boot.

5. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein the tension switch further comprises: A switch housing having an inner wall defining a chamber with an open end, wherein the chamber extends into the switch housing; A contact member, the contact member being installed within the cavity; A plug, wherein the plug is installed in the cavity and electrically connected to the one or more wires; At least one of the plug or the contact member is movable within the cavity between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position a conductive connection is formed between the plug and the contact member, and in the second position a gap is formed between the plug and the contact member; as well as A spring member, the spring member being mounted in the cavity and in contact with at least one of the plug or the contact member, wherein the spring member has a spring force configured to bias the plug into contact with the contact member.

6. The security tag assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The chamber includes another open end to define an opening through the switch housing; The contact member includes a sleeve member having at least one wall defining a first contact surface and a second contact surface; The plug includes a first plug member and a second plug member, wherein the first plug member is connected to a first end of one or more wires and the second plug member is connected to a second end of one or more wires, wherein the first plug member is movable within the cavity between a first closed position and a first open position, wherein in the first closed position, the first plug member forms electrical contact with a first end of the sleeve member, and in the first open position, the first plug member is spaced apart from the first end of the sleeve member, and wherein the second plug member is movable within the cavity between a second closed position and a second open position, wherein in the second closed position, the second plug member forms electrical contact with a second end of the sleeve member, and in the second open position, the second plug member is spaced apart from the second end of the sleeve member; and The spring component includes a first spring component and a second spring component, wherein the first spring component biases the first plug component toward the first closed position, and the second spring component biases the second plug component toward the second closed position.

7. The security tag assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The contact member includes a contact plate fixedly installed at the end of the chamber opposite to the opening end; and The spring member is installed between the opening end of the chamber and the plug, and is in contact with the plug.

8. The security tag assembly according to claim 5, further comprising: The plug includes a movable first contact plate and a movable second contact plate, which are respectively fixedly installed to the free end of each of the one or more wires; The spring component includes a first external spring component and a second external spring component, each of which is connected to a corresponding contact plate at a first end and to a corresponding opening end of the switch housing at a second end. The contact member includes a first plug member and a second plug member, wherein the first plug member and the second plug member are configured to be movable relative to each other; A first internal spring member and a second internal spring member, wherein the first internal spring member applies a first force and the second internal spring member applies a second force, thereby biasing the first plug member and the second plug member in opposite directions toward the first contact plate and the second contact plate, respectively. and In the closed position, the first contact plate is electrically connected to the first plug member and the second contact plate is electrically connected to the second plug member.

9. The security tag assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The contact member includes a bridge member having at least one wall defining a first contact surface and a second contact surface; and The plug includes a first blade member connected at a first end to one or more wires and a second blade member connected at a second end to the one or more wires, wherein each of the first blade member and the second blade member is configured to move within the cavity to form an electrical connection with the bridge member.

10. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein the tension switch further comprises: A switch housing having an inner wall defining an opening through the switch housing; A sleeve, the sleeve being connected to the switch housing inside the opening, wherein the sleeve includes a wall defining the sleeve opening, the sleeve opening having a first open end and a second open end; A first plug is connected to one or more wires, wherein the first plug is movable within the opening between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the first plug forms a first conductive connection with the first open end of the sleeve, and in the second position the first plug is spaced apart from the first open end of the sleeve. A second plug is connected to one or more wires, wherein the second plug is movable within the opening between a third position and a fourth position, wherein in the third position the second plug forms a second conductive connection with the second open end of the sleeve, and in the fourth position the second plug is spaced apart from the second open end of the sleeve. A first spring member is mounted in the opening in the switch housing and is configured to contact a first end of the opening and the first plug; as well as A second spring member is mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a second end of the opening and the second plug.

11. The security tag assembly of claim 10, wherein in the disconnected position, tension exists in one or more wires, and wherein at least one of the first spring member or the second spring member is compressed such that at least one of the first plug and the second plug is disconnected from the sleeve.

12. The security tag assembly of claim 11, wherein the amount of compression corresponds to the second tension level in one or more conductors.

13. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more wires further comprises a block, wherein the block is configured to prevent the one or more wires from moving on the outer surface of the boot and to prevent the one or more wires from damaging the boot, and wherein the shape of the block matches the shape of the boot on which the block is located.

14. The security tag assembly of claim 13, wherein the block may further include an additional switch.

15. The security tag assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more wires are arranged to form: Circular rings; and A semi-circular ring at an angle of at least 70 degrees to the circular ring.

16. The security tag assembly of claim 1, further comprising the alarm electrically connected to the circuit board and in electrical communication with the processor.

17. The security tag assembly of claim 16, wherein the alarm includes at least one of an audio speaker that produces audible sound or an illumination device that produces visible light.

18. The security tag assembly of claim 1, further comprising a security tag component.

19. The security tag assembly of claim 18, wherein the security tag component comprises at least one of an acousto-magnetic tag or an radio frequency tag.

20. A security tag assembly for placement around a boot, comprising: The safety tag housing, at least a first wire, a second wire and a third wire, and a first tension switch and a second tension switch; The security tag housing is configured to house a circuit board, the circuit board including: a processor, a security tag component including at least one of an acousto-magnetic tag or an radio frequency tag, and an alarm electrically connected to the circuit board and in electrical communication with the processor; The first tension switch further includes: A first switch housing having an inner wall defining an opening through the switch housing; A sleeve, the sleeve being connected to the switch housing inside the opening, wherein the sleeve includes a wall defining the sleeve opening, the sleeve opening having a first open end and a second open end; A first plug is connected to the first wire, wherein the first plug is movable within the opening between a first position and a second position, in the first position the first plug forms a first conductive connection with the first open end of the sleeve, and in the second position the first plug is spaced apart from the first open end of the sleeve. A second plug is connected to the second wire, wherein the second plug is movable within the opening between a third position and a fourth position, in the third position the second plug forms a second conductive connection with the second open end of the sleeve, and in the fourth position the second plug is spaced apart from the second open end of the sleeve; A first spring member, the first spring member being mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a first end of the first switch housing and the first plug; and A second spring member is mounted within the opening in the switch housing and configured to contact a second end of the first switch housing and the second plug; and The second tension switch includes: A second switch housing having an inner wall defining a chamber configured to extend partially through the switch housing; A contact plate, the contact plate being installed within the cavity; A third plug, wherein the third plug is installed in the cavity and electrically connected to the third wire; The third plug is movable within the cavity between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position a conductive connection is formed between the third plug and the contact plate, and in the second position a gap is formed between the plug and the contact member; and A third spring member is mounted in the cavity and contacts the third plug, wherein the third spring member has a spring force configured to bias the third plug into contact with the contact plate.

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