Fixable clip and method for fixing the clip

Abstract

The fixable clip includes a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge. The clip includes at least one locking peg, at least one receiving hole configured to receive the at least one locking peg, and a frangible portion. The frangible portion provides a visual indication that the clip has been opened. Release of the locking peg prevents the clip from being reclosed, reused, or resealed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of transportation and packaging technology, and in particular to a fixable clip and a method for fixing the clip. Background Art

[0002] The delivery of prepared foods and fresh grocery store items is becoming more and more popular. However, once the food or items leave the restaurant, grocery store or other seller, there are a lot of opportunities to intentionally or accidentally tamper with the food or other items. Tampering with the food or other items, or simply exposing the contents, not only affects the safety / quality / quantity available, but these situations increase the operating and customer service related costs of the delivery service and the supplier. In addition, health events have increased awareness of the chain of custody of prepared items (e.g., food from restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues, cruise ships, etc.), collected items (e.g., delivery services shopping at grocery stores on behalf of others), and packaged items (e.g., prescription drug delivery). A safe and economical security mechanism for transporting food and other items is needed. Summary of the invention

[0003] In view of the above, the present application provides a fixable clip that can prevent the contents of a sealed container or bag from being tampered with or otherwise exposed before delivery and opening by an intended recipient or authorized user.

[0004] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present application provides a first aspect of a fixable clip, comprising:

[0005] a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge;

[0006] at least one locking peg extending from an inner surface of the first elongated rectangular portion;

[0007] at least one receiving aperture in the second elongated rectangular portion, the at least one receiving aperture configured to receive the at least one locking peg;

[0008] a breakable portion, the breakable portion being disposed on an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion;

[0009] Wherein after the clip has been hinged closed along the common edge and the at least one locking peg is disposed in the at least one receiving aperture, the frangible portion is detachable to remove a portion of the outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

[0010] In some embodiments, once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

[0011] In some embodiments, the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

[0012] In some embodiments, the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

[0013] In some embodiments, the released locking peg cannot be reattached to the clip, such that the clip cannot be reclosed, reused, or used to seal any item.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one identifier is provided, the identifier being selected from the group consisting of: a barcode, a QR code, or an RFID tag.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

[0016] A second aspect of the present application provides a method for fixing a clip, the method comprising:

[0017] providing a clip comprising a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge, the first elongated rectangular portion comprising a frangible portion disposed on an outer surface and at least one locking peg extending from an inner surface, and the second elongated rectangular portion comprising at least one receiving aperture;

[0018] hinge the clip to close so that the at least one locking peg is received in the at least one receiving aperture;

[0019] separating the frangible portion from the clip;

[0020] Wherein separation of the frangible portion removes a portion of an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

[0021] In some embodiments, once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

[0022] In some embodiments, the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

[0023] In some embodiments, the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

[0024] In some embodiments, the released locking peg cannot be reattached to the clip, such that the clip cannot be reclosed, reused, or used to seal any item.

[0025] In some embodiments, at least one identifier is provided, the at least one identifier being selected from: a barcode, a QR code, or an RFID tag.

[0026] In some embodiments, the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

[0027] A third aspect of the present application provides a method for fixing a clip, the method comprising:

[0028] providing a clip comprising a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge, the first elongated rectangular portion comprising a frangible portion disposed on an outer surface and at least two locking pegs extending from an inner surface, and the second elongated rectangular portion comprising at least two receiving apertures;

[0029] closing the clip, wherein the at least two locking pegs are received in the at least two receiving apertures;

[0030] separating the frangible portion from the clip;

[0031] Wherein separation of the frangible portion removes a portion of an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

[0032] In some embodiments, once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

[0033] In some embodiments, the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

[0034] In some embodiments, the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

[0035] In some embodiments, at least one identifier is provided, the at least one identifier being selected from: a barcode, a QR code, or an RFID tag.

[0036] In some embodiments, the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

[0037] Compared to the prior art, the embodiments of the present application provide a fixable clip that prevents the contents of a sealed container or bag from being tampered with or otherwise exposed before delivery and opening by the intended recipient or authorized user. In addition, during the transportation of the sealed container, the exemplary clips detailed herein prevent accidental exposure and possible contamination by preventing the package from being opened due to unexpected events (e.g., the bag / clip falls or the delivery vehicle stops suddenly and the bag / clip moves, topples or falls). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the following detailed description, serve to explain features of the present disclosure, in which:

[0039] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a clip.

[0040] Figure 1B It is a perspective view of the first embodiment with the clip opened.

[0041] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the clip of the first embodiment in exemplary use, the clip being secured to a bag enclosing an article therein.

[0042] Figure 3A is a side view of the clip of the first embodiment in an open position.

[0043] Figure 3B is a side view of the clip of the first embodiment in a closed / secured position.

[0044] Figure 4 is a top view of the removable tab at the top of the clip of the first embodiment.

[0045] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the hinge and clip of the first embodiment.

[0046] Fig. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4 - 4 of FIG. 1 , showing the initial removal of the removable tab.

[0047] Figure 6B is similar to Fig. 6A sectional view in which the removable tab is completely removed from the clip of the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 6C is a top view of the clip of the first embodiment with the removable tab completely separated from the clip.

[0049] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the clip of the first embodiment opened in direction B after the removable tab has been completely removed.

[0050] Fig. 8A This is a second embodiment of the clip.

[0051] Figure 8B is a bottom view of the clip of the second embodiment.

[0052] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment with the clip closed.

[0053] Fig.8D is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment with the clip closed and the removable tab engaged.

[0054] Fig. 8E is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment with the removable tab fully detached.

[0055] Fig.8F is a bottom view of the clip of the second embodiment with the post retained and the removable tab fully detached.

[0056] Fig. 9A is a plan view of a third embodiment of a clip having two posts and no hinge.

[0057] Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of a clip closure.

[0058] Fig. 9C It is a perspective view of the third embodiment.

[0059] Fig. 10A is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a clip.

[0060] Fig. 10B is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a closed clip.

[0061] Fig. 10C is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a closed clip.

[0062] Fig. 10D is a bottom view of a fourth embodiment of a clip.

[0063] Fig.10E is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a closed clip.

[0064] Fig.11A is a lower perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a clip with the pull tab separated.

[0065] Fig. 11B is a side view of the fourth embodiment of the clip with the pull tab fully detached.

[0066] Fig. 11C is a side perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the clip with the pull tab fully detached and the clip open.

[0067] Fig.12 Exemplary methods of using the exemplary clips according to the first, second, and fourth embodiments are shown.

[0068] Fig.13 An exemplary method of using the exemplary clip according to the third embodiment is shown.

[0069] Fig.14A is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a clip.

[0070] Fig. 14B is a top view of the removable tab on the clip top of the fourth embodiment.

[0071] Fig. 14C is a top view of the clip of the fourth embodiment with the removable tab completely separated from the clip. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements throughout the text. Certain terms are used herein for convenience only and should not be considered as limitations of the present disclosure. Terms include specifically mentioned words, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings. The embodiments shown below are not exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed. These embodiments are selected and described in order to optimally explain the principles, applications, and practical uses, and to enable other technical personnel in the art to better utilize the present disclosure.

[0073] In one aspect, the exemplary embodiments illustrated herein provide a secure delivery mechanism to eliminate tampering and accidental exposure to contaminants, such as food and items and other deliveries. Among other beneficial results, the exemplary embodiments described in detail herein eliminate tampering from the time the food or other item is prepared for delivery until the time the food or other item is delivered to the intended recipient. Although food, prescription drugs, money, groceries, etc. are discussed herein, the beneficial results of the exemplary embodiments can be realized by not touching, contaminating, or in any way affecting anything sensitive or personal before the intended recipient visits the delivery mechanism. Some traditional scenarios that can be solved and / or eliminated by utilizing the exemplary embodiments can include:

[0074] OExample 1) A food delivery driver samples food during transport.

[0075] O Example 2) A food delivery driver opens bags or containers to inspect the contents and touches, adjusts, or otherwise contaminates food in transit.

[0076] O Example 3) A food delivery driver opens a bag or container to inspect the contents and may contaminate the food by allowing dust, bacteria or any particles to enter the opened bag or container even without physically touching the contents.

[0077] O Example 4) If an employee is transporting money, for example, from a store to a bank to deposit it, the employee's suspicion can be eliminated if the money counting machines at both ends are closed.

[0078] O Example 5) The package may be accidentally dropped, shaken, suddenly moved, or fall off a car seat during transportation, opening the box and exposing the contents.

[0079] In addition, the exemplary embodiments will maintain confidence in the products shipped to ensure safety and will save resources and costs by creating accountability for suppliers / shippers and transporters and employees. In at least one aspect, the exemplary embodiments can be shipped securely and opened only by the intended recipient. For example, if a supplier applies a secure shipping mechanism to fulfill an order before receiving the order for shipping, at least the following beneficial results can be achieved:

[0080] O The sender (e.g. supplier) cannot claim that the carrier is responsible for any missing items in the order.

[0081] The intended recipient cannot claim that the shipper tampered with the order.

[0082] In at least one aspect, the exemplary embodiments provide a safety system for the transporter to substantially guarantee that the food / items leave the restaurant / store in the condition that the intended recipient will receive them (e.g., the supplier). In addition, the safety system will absolve the delivery driver or the company that employs the delivery driver from liability if the food / items delivered are not in the correct order.

[0083] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a clip. Figure 1A As shown, the clip 10 includes two generally rectangular portions 12 , 32 connected along a hinge 30 . Figure 1A 1 and 2. Portion 12 is shown as the upper portion of the clip, but this orientation is exemplary only. Portion 12 includes upper surface 14, side surfaces 16 and 20, and end surfaces 18 and 22. Portion 32 includes bottom surface 34, side surfaces 36 and 40, and end surfaces 38 and 42. A removable tab is shown at 50, which includes a pull tab 52 ( Figure 4 ) to allow an object (e.g., a finger) to enter to initiate separation of the removable tab 50 using the pull tab 52. The removable tab 50 includes an extendable portion 54, which is shown extending a generally rectangular length in the upper surface 14 between the pull tab 52 and the post connector 56. When removed, the removable tab 50 separates in the direction A. Figure 1B It is a perspective view of the first embodiment with the clip opened.

[0084] Figure 2A perspective view of the clip of the first embodiment is shown in an exemplary use, wherein the clip is secured to a bag 5 enclosing an article 1 therein.

[0085] Figure 3A FIG. 2 is a side view of the clip of the first embodiment closed from the open position along direction B. Figure 1A As shown, portion 12 includes a post base 60 which is shown as having a threaded body. Portion 32 includes a receiving opening 70 and a retaining feature 72. Figure 3B The clip of the first embodiment is shown fully closed, with the post base 60 fully inserted into the receiving opening 70 .

[0086] Figure 4 A top view of the removable tab 50 on the upper surface 14 of the first portion 12 of the clip 10 of the first embodiment is shown. In addition to showing the pull tab 52, the opening 51, the extendable portion 54 and the post connector 56, Figure 4 The top 58 of the column is also shown.

[0087] Figure 5 The hinge 30 and bottom surface 34 of the clip 10 of the first embodiment are shown. Figure 5 As shown, additional optional features may be provided including, for example, trackable features such as a tracker 97 , a barcode 98 , and a QR code 99 .

[0088] Fig. 6A The first embodiment of the clip 10 is shown with the removable tab 50 engaged for removal. Fig. 6A As shown, the pull tab 52 is engaged by inserting a finger or other object into the opening 51 and pulling the pull tab 52 in the direction A. In this manner, the pull tab 52 begins to separate the removable tab 50 from the upper surface 14 along the extendable portion 54 .

[0089] Figure 6B The clip 10 of the first embodiment is shown with the removable tab 50 completely removed from the clip 10 . Figure 6C The removable tab 50 is shown completely separated from the clip 10, wherein the removable tab 50 is adjacent to the upper surface 14 of the portion 12. Figure 6C As shown, the removable tab 50 is separated from the top 58 of the post at the opening 57 in the removable tab 50, leaving a remaining portion 59 of the post 58. In addition, Figure 6C 1. The retention feature 72 is shown in a cylindrical orientation. The retention feature 72 provides an extension that helps retain a bag or other container in the clip 10 when the clip 10 is in the closed position. The retention feature 72 can extend into the space 15 of the portion 12 in the closed position.

[0090] Figure 7The clip 10 is shown with the removable tab 50 completely separated from the clip 10 and the clip 10 opened in direction C. Figure 7 As shown, after the post base 60 is received in the opening 70, the post 58 is retained in the portion 32, and the threads 62 engage corresponding portions of the opening 72 to help retain the post 58. The portion 12 includes an opening 15, such as Figure 7 As shown in the cross-sectional view.

[0091] Fig. 8A A side view of a second embodiment of a clip 110 is shown. Fig. 8A As shown, the clip 110 includes a portion 112 and a portion 132 connected along a hinge 130. The portion 112 includes an upper surface 114 in which a removable tab 150 is disposed. The removable tab 150 includes a post 158 ​​extending therefrom and a post base 160. The portion 132 includes an upwardly extending retention feature 172 that can be received in the opening 115 of the portion 112 when the clip 110 is closed. Fig. 8A As shown, portion 112 is closed along hinge 130 in direction C toward portion 132 . Lower portion 132 also includes a receiving opening 170 that includes retention feature 164 .

[0092] Figure 8B FIG. 1 is a bottom view of the clip 110 of the second embodiment. Figure 8B As shown, the bottom surface 134 includes a receiving opening 170 and a retaining feature 164 .

[0093] Figure 8C A cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the clip 110 is shown closed. Fig.8D A cross-sectional view of the second embodiment is shown in which the clip 110 is fully closed and the removable tab 150 is engaged at the pull tab 152 by inserting a finger or other object into the opening 151. The removable tab 150 is removed in direction D, as shown in FIG. Fig.8D shown. Fig. 8E The removal tab 150 is shown completely removed from the clip 110 in direction D. Fig.8F A bottom view of the second embodiment of the clip 110 is shown with the post base 160 retained in the opening 170 by the retaining feature 164 .

[0094] Fig. 9A FIG. 2 is a plan view of a third embodiment of a clip 210 that includes two posts 258 and 278 but does not include a hinge. Fig. 9A As shown, the removable tab 150 is provided with a pull tab 152 disposed at a first end and extending beyond the rectangular portion of the clip 210. The removable tab 250 also includes an extendable portion 254 and a post connector 256. The removable tab 250 is shown in the upper surface 214 of the clip 210.

[0095] Fig. 9B FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a closed clip 210 of the third embodiment. Fig. 9B As shown, the clip 210 shows the posts 258 and 278 engaged in the closed position. Fig. 9C It is a perspective view of the third embodiment.

[0096] Fig. 10A 3 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the clip 310. Fig. 10A As shown, the clip 310 includes a portion 312 having a front wall 314. The portion 312 is connected to the portion 332 along the hinge 330. The portion 332 includes a side wall 336 and a retaining feature 372. The retaining feature is formed by the engagement of a first retaining portion 350 connected to the portion 312 and a second retaining portion 360 connected to the portion 332. The second retaining portion 360 includes a removable tab 352. The first retaining portion 350 and the second retaining portion 360 are sized to fit securely with each other. The portions 312 and 332 can be engaged to articulate along the hinge 330 in a direction E, which is shown as including an upward and downward arrow to allow movement in either direction as desired.

[0097] Fig. 10B Clip 310 is shown moving in direction E, with portion 312 and portion 332 closing together about hinge 330 . Fig. 10C An extension of the clip is shown, which is closed with a first fixing portion 350, which includes a portion 354 having teeth or other serrations formed therein that interact with teeth or other serrations formed in a portion 364, which is part of a second fixing portion 360. When the teeth of portion 354 engage the teeth of portion 364, the gap 351 of the first fixing portion 350 and the gap 362 of the second fixing portion 360 are closed. Fig. 10D A bottom view of a fourth embodiment of a clip 310 is shown. Fig. 10D Portion 332 in FIG. 3 shows the bottom surface 334 and the underside of portion 360 of pull tab 352 . Fig.10E A cross section of the fourth embodiment is shown with the clip closed. Fig. 10D The remaining portion 373 of the second fixing portion 360 is shown.

[0098] Fig.11A FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the clip 310, wherein the pull tab 352 is separated along the direction F. As shown, the pull tab 352 is separated from the portion 332 along the extendable portion 358. Fig.11A As shown, gaps 351 and 362 have been fully closed and the teeth of portions 354 and 364 are engaged to securely close clip 310 .

[0099] Fig. 11B 3 is a side view of the fourth embodiment of the clip 310, wherein the pull tab 352 is completely separated. The removal of the pull tab 32 also separates the extendable portion 358. A gap 368 is formed between the portion 332 and the second fixed portion 360.

[0100] Fig. 11C 3 is a side perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the clip 310, wherein the pull tab 352 is fully separated and the clip 310 is open. Fig. 11C The clip 310 is shown opened in direction G, wherein portion 312 separates from portion 332 and allows access to the contents previously secured by the clip 310. Fig. 11C As further shown in FIG. 3 , portion 332 holds remaining portion 373 , wherein connecting portion 364 of second fixing portion 360 and connecting portion 354 of first fixing portion 350 remain firmly connected and move in direction G with portion 312 .

[0101] Fig.12 An exemplary method of using an exemplary clip according to the first, second and fourth embodiments is shown. First, at step 610, items are loaded into the bag through the opening of the bag. At step 620, the clip is placed on the bag to close the position of the opening. At step 630, the portions of the clip are moved toward each other by hingedly engaging one portion of the clip toward another portion of the clip to close the clip around the opening of the bag. At step 640, the clip is closed to lock the clip in place and securely seal the clip. At step 650, the clip is opened by separating the pull tab, the separation of the pull tab providing a visual indication that the fastening clip has been opened. At step 660, the portions of the clip are separated to provide access to the opening of the bag.

[0102] Fig.13 An exemplary method of using an exemplary clip according to a third embodiment is shown. First, at step 710, items are loaded into a bag through the opening of the bag. At step 720, the clip is placed on the bag to close the position of the opening. At step 730, the portions of the clip are moved toward engagement with each other to close the clip around the opening of the bag. At step 740, the clip is closed to lock a first column having a first opening and a second column having a second opening, thereby securely sealing the clip. At step 750, the clip is opened by separating the pull tab, the separation of the pull tab providing a visual indication that the fastening clip has been opened. At step 760, the portions of the clip are separated to provide access to the opening of the bag.

[0103] Fig.14A is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a clip. Fig. 14B is a top view of the removable tab on the clip top of the fourth embodiment. Fig. 14Cis a top view of the clip of the fourth embodiment with the removable tab completely separated from the clip. Fig.14A , Fig. 14B and Fig. 14C Including retaining tabs, these retaining tabs can provide additional strength and can help keep the peg and tab intact, for example, when closing the clip. Fig.14A As shown, the clip 810 includes two substantially rectangular portions 812 , 832 connected along a hinge 830 . Fig.14A 812 is shown as the upper portion of the clip, but this orientation is for example only. Portion 812 includes an upper surface 814, side surfaces 816 and 820, and end surfaces 818 and 822. Portion 832 includes a bottom surface 834, side surfaces 836 and 840, and end surfaces 838 and 842. A removable tab is shown at 850, which includes a pull tab 852 adjacent to a space 851, and the pull tab 852 is configured to allow an object (such as a finger) to enter to initiate separation of the removable tab 850 using the pull tab 852. The removable tab 850 includes an extendable portion 854, which is shown as a generally rectangular length extending in the upper surface 814 between the pull tab 852 and the post connector 856. When removed, the removable tab 850 separates in the direction H.

[0104] Fig. 14B A top view of a removable tab 850 on an upper surface 814 of a first portion 812 of a clip 810 of a fourth embodiment is shown. In addition to the pull tab 852, opening 851, extendable portion 854, post connector 856, there is also a top portion 858 of the post.

[0105] Fig. 14C The removable tab 850 is shown completely separated from the clip 810, wherein the removable tab 850 is adjacent to the upper surface 814 of the portion 812. Fig. 14C As shown, the removable tab 850 is separated from the top 858 of the post at the opening 857 in the removable tab 850, leaving a remaining portion 859 of the post 858. In addition, Fig. 14C 872 is shown in a cylindrical orientation. The retaining feature 872 provides an extension that helps retain a bag or other container in the clip 810 when the clip 810 is in a closed position. The retaining feature 872 can extend into the space 815 of the portion 812 in the closed position. The locating tabs 880 and 882 are shown surrounding the opening 857 and, when removed, expose the remaining portion 884.

[0106] The exemplary clips detailed herein can prevent tampering or other exposure of the contents of a sealed container or bag prior to delivery and opening by the intended recipient or authorized user. In addition, during the transportation of the sealed container, the exemplary clips detailed herein prevent accidental exposure and possible contamination by preventing the package from being opened due to unexpected events (e.g., the bag / clip is dropped or the delivery vehicle stops suddenly and the bag / clip moves, topples or falls).

[0107] The exemplary clips described in detail herein will allow anyone who is not trained or familiar with fixing packages or bags or food to seal or fix items so that bags and clips are tamper-proof. In addition, the exemplary clips described in detail herein can be closed and opened only once, so that the exemplary clips described in detail herein are single-use or disposable. The exemplary clips described in detail herein include a "pull tab" or "tear tab" that removes the material that holds the locking bolt to the clip, and thus releases the bolt from the initial or original position of the clip and allows the clip to open. The locking bolt is not easy to return to the initial position because the material is usually removed from the bolt by the pull tab so that the clip has been opened and visible. The exemplary clips described in detail herein can be used for any bag or any container that can receive the exemplary clip, including, for example, bags, backpacks, sacks, wallets, envelopes, etc. The sealed bag / article can be made of paper, plastic, fabric, or any other material. The exemplary clips described in detail herein can be used for fixing / sealing one or more bags / articles. The exemplary clips detailed herein may be formed of any material capable of allowing the clip to function as detailed herein, but will typically be formed of plastic to allow the removable tab or pull tab to be flexible so as to be separated from another portion of the clip. In some cases, one or more pegs may pierce the sealed article. Alternatively, as desired in other embodiments, a separate tool or device (e.g., a hole punch) may be used to create one or more holes for the pegs. The pegs may include graded barbs / ribs so that the clip can be adjusted in such a way that more layers and / or generally thicker materials of the bag / article being sealed can be retained therein.

[0108] Although not shown in the exemplary figures, in at least one embodiment, a clip with or without a hinge may include three or more pegs and corresponding peg receivers. Additional pegs / receivers may be required to secure longer clips. In at least one embodiment, the clip may use a pull tab to release each or all pegs. In at least one embodiment, the clip may use a separate pull tab to release each peg individually. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the pull tab may release a peg receiver instead of a peg. In at least one embodiment, the pull tab may release multiple / all peg receivers.

[0109] In at least one embodiment, the clip may incorporate a barcode, RFID tag, microchip, or any other technology for tracking the clip and the sealed item or items. Tracking may record any of the following data points: time, location, contents of the item, name, and contact information of the sender / shipper / merchant, the deliverer / transporter, and any other intermediaries, as well as the intended recipient / customer.

[0110] In at least one embodiment, the exemplary clips described may include holes or channels therethrough for adding an additional layer of security by providing an opening for a zipper or other locking mechanism. Additionally, the holes or channels may also be used to store and organize the clips prior to use (e.g., using a string, ring, or rod). Furthermore, the holes may also be used to string or bundle multiple closed clips together for easier transportation.

[0111] The exemplary clips detailed herein may be formed by any applicable method, including, for example, one-step injection molding, or may be manufactured in separate molds where the pegs and / or peg receivers are manufactured separately and then attached to the clip. In one exemplary design, the pegs and peg receivers may be inserted into pre-built holes to allow for additional strength and security to be added as desired. Additionally, in at least one exemplary embodiment, if the pegs and / or peg receivers are manufactured separately, the pegs may be permanently glued or heat sealed to the clip in a two-step manufacturing process.

[0112] By referring to this detailed description, examples and claims, the present invention can be more easily understood. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific systems, devices and / or methods disclosed, which can of course be changed unless otherwise specified. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used to describe specific aspects and are not intended to be limiting.

[0113] This specification provides the currently known and best aspects of implementing the present disclosure. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes can be made to the described aspects while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It is also obvious that some desired beneficial results of the present disclosure can also be obtained by selecting some features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and adjustments to the present disclosure are possible, and in some cases even desirable, and are part of the present disclosure. Therefore, this specification is provided as an explanation of the principles of the present disclosure rather than a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0114] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "an entity" includes aspects having two or more entities unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0115] Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from a particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation by using the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will also be understood that the endpoints of each range are significant relative to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0116] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not occur.

[0117] Although several aspects of the present disclosure are disclosed in the foregoing description, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many modifications and other aspects of the present disclosure will come to mind with the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific aspects disclosed above, and many modifications and other aspects are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although specific terms are used herein and in the subsequent claims, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure described.

Claims

1. Fixable clips, including: a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge; at least one locking peg extending from an inner surface of the first elongated rectangular portion; at least one receiving aperture in the second elongated rectangular portion, the at least one receiving aperture configured to receive the at least one locking peg; a breakable portion, the breakable portion being disposed on an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion; Wherein after the clip has been hinged closed along the common edge and the at least one locking peg is disposed in the at least one receiving aperture, the frangible portion is detachable to remove a portion of the outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

2. The clip according to claim 1, wherein: Once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

3. The clip of claim 1, wherein the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

4. The clip of claim 3, wherein the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

5. The clip of claim 4, wherein the released locking peg cannot be reattached to the clip such that the clip cannot be reclosed, reused, or sealed to any item.

6. The clip of claim 1, wherein at least one identifier is provided, the identifier being selected from the group consisting of: a barcode, a QR code, or an RFID tag.

7. The clip of claim 6, wherein the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

8. A method for fixing a clip, the method comprising: providing a clip comprising a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge, the first elongated rectangular portion comprising a frangible portion disposed on an outer surface and at least one locking peg extending from an inner surface, and the second elongated rectangular portion comprising at least one receiving aperture; hinge the clip to close so that the at least one locking peg is received in the at least one receiving aperture; separating the frangible portion from the clip; Wherein separation of the frangible portion removes a portion of an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: Once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the released locking peg cannot be reattached to the clip such that the clip cannot be reclosed, reused, or sealed to any item.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein at least one identifier is provided, the at least one identifier selected from: a barcode, a QR code or an RFID tag.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

15. A method for fixing a clip, the method comprising: providing a clip comprising a first elongated rectangular portion and a second elongated rectangular portion connected along a common edge, the first elongated rectangular portion comprising a frangible portion disposed on an outer surface and at least two locking pegs extending from an inner surface, and the second elongated rectangular portion comprising at least two receiving apertures; closing the clip, wherein the at least two locking pegs are received in the at least two receiving apertures; separating the frangible portion from the clip; Wherein separation of the frangible portion removes a portion of an outer surface of the first elongated rectangular portion to provide a visual indication that the clip has been opened.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: Once opened, the clip cannot be reclosed, resealed, or reused.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the frangible portion comprises a pull tab.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the pull tab is sized to be separated to remove a portion of the clip to allow the first elongated rectangular portion to release the at least one locking peg.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein at least one identifier is provided, the at least one identifier selected from: a barcode, a QR code, or an RFID tag.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the at least one identifier indicates at least one of: order information, a timestamp, supplier information, recipient information, one or more promotional messages, removal instructions, and any combination thereof.

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