System and method for operating a security tag

Abstract

A system and method for operating a security tag. The method includes: engaging a plunger of the security tag with a latch of the security tag; preventing the plunger from disengaging from the latch by a fail-safe structure of the security tag when an impact force is applied to the security tag; and allowing the plunger to disengage from the latch by the fail-safe structure when a magnetic field is applied to the security tag.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on January 9, 2020, which entered the Chinese national phase on September 10, 2021, with PCT application number PCT / US2020 / 012960, national application number 202080020324.5, and invention name “System and method for operating security tags”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 791,612 filed on January 11, 2019. The contents of that provisional patent application are incorporated herein in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This document relates generally to security tags. More specifically, this document relates to systems and methods for providing a magnetically locked retractable tag with fail-safe impact protection. Background Art

[0005] Retail stores often use electronic article surveillance ("EAS") systems to minimize losses from theft. One common method of minimizing retail theft is to attach security tags to items so that unauthorized removal of items can be detected. In some cases, a visual or audible alarm is generated based on this detection. For example, a security tag with an EAS element (e.g., an acousto-magnetic element) can be attached to items sold in a retail store. An EAS interrogation signal is sent at the entrance and / or exit of the retail store. If someone attempts to remove the item without first detaching the security tag from the item, the EAS interrogation signal causes the EAS element of the security tag to produce a detectable response. The security tag must be detached from the item when the item is purchased to prevent the generation of a visual or audible alarm.

[0006] One type of security tag may include a tag body engaged with a nail. The nail typically includes a nail head and a pointed pin extending from the nail head. In use, the pin is inserted through the item to be protected. The handle or lower portion of the pin is then locked into a mating hole formed through the housing of the tag body. In some cases, the tag body may contain a radio frequency identification ("RFID") element or tag. The RFID element can be interrogated by an RFID reader to obtain RFID data therefrom.

[0007] A detachment unit may be used to remove or detach a security tag from an article. Examples of such detachment units are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0208559 ("the '559 patent application") and U.S. Patent No. 7,391,327 ("the '327 patent"). The detachment units disclosed in the listed patents are designed to operate on a two-part hard security tag. Such a security tag includes a pin and a molded plastic housing that houses an EAS tag element. During operation, the pin is inserted through the article to be protected (e.g., clothing) into a hole formed through at least one side wall of the molded plastic housing. The pin is securely coupled to the molded plastic housing via a mechanical or magnetic locking mechanism disposed in the molded plastic housing. The pin is released by the detachment unit by applying a magnetic field via a magnet or mechanical probe inserted through a hole in the hard tag. The magnet or mechanical probe is typically located in a non-detached position within the detachment unit. When an RFID-enabled hard tag is inserted into an RFID detacher seat, a first magnetic field or mechanical clamp is applied to hold the tag in place when verifying a POS transaction. Once the transaction and payment are verified, a second magnet or mechanical probe is advanced from the non-detached position to the detached position to release the tag's locking mechanism (e.g., clamp). The pin can now be removed from the tag. Once the pin is removed and the item is released, the security tag will pop out or release from the detacher seat.

[0008] Mechanical and magnetic locking mechanisms for security tags have certain drawbacks. For example, a common problem encountered with magnetic locks is that the security tag will be allowed to open immediately when it is struck against a hard surface. The amount of force required to cause unlocking depends on the design of the lock, and more specifically on the spring used to hold the lock in the locked state. Lighter springs that apply less spring force are designed for lower strength magnetic release units, while heavier springs that apply more spring force are designed for higher strength magnetic release units. However, regardless of the spring weight used, it is a known problem that a security tag can be unlocked without permission by striking the security tag against a surface. The spring holding the security tag in the locked state will compress, and the lock will immediately transition to the unlocked state. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present disclosure relates to a system and method for operating a security tag. The method includes: engaging a plunger of the security tag with a latch of the security tag; preventing the plunger from disengaging from the latch by a fail-safe structure of the security tag when an impact force is applied to the security tag; and allowing the plunger to disengage from the latch by the fail-safe structure when a magnetic field is applied to the security tag.

[0010] When an impact force is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure prevents the plunger from disengaging from the latch by absorbing the energy generated by the impact force and releasing the energy to provide a reaction impact force in a direction toward the latch. The reaction impact force causes the plunger to be pushed in a direction toward the latch before the plunger moves out of the latch due to the impact force.

[0011] In some cases, the anti-failure structure includes an impact block that is elastically biased toward the plunger by an impact spring. The impact block is disposed between the plunger and the impact spring and is always in contact with the plunger. When energy is absorbed by the anti-failure structure, the impact spring is in a compressed state, and when the anti-failure structure releases energy, the impact spring is converted from a compressed state to an uncompressed state. When energy is released by the anti-failure structure, the impact spring causes the impact block to apply a thrust to the plunger. The thrust causes the plunger to move toward the latch and the plunger remains engaged with the latch despite the impact force.

[0012] When a magnetic field is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure allows the plunger to disengage from the latch by absorbing energy through the anti-failure structure while the plunger is attracted to the magnetic field source. When a magnetic field is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure allows the plunger to travel a first distance in a direction away from the latch, and when an impact force is applied to the security tag, allows the plunger to travel a second distance in a direction away from the latch. The first distance is greater than the second distance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present solution will be described with reference to the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0014] Figure 1 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture of an EAS system.

[0015] Figure 2 is a diagram of an illustrative architecture of a data network.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 1-2 Illustration of an illustrative architecture for security tags shown in .

[0017] Figure 4 yes Figure 1-3 An illustrative cross-sectional view of a security tag is shown.

[0018] Figure 5 yes Figure 1-4 An illustrative top view of a safety label is shown.

[0019] Figure 6 yes Figure 1-5 Exploded view of the safety label shown.

[0020] Figures 7A-7D(collectively referred to herein as "FIG. 7") provides an illustration that aids in understanding how the magnetic locking mechanism operates without a defeat-proof impact protection mechanism when an impact force is applied to the security tag.

[0021] Figures 8A-8D (collectively referred to herein as "FIG. 8") provides an illustration that aids in understanding how the magnetic locking mechanism operates when an impact force is applied to the security tag with a defeat-proof impact protection mechanism.

[0022] Figures 9A-9D (collectively referred to herein as "FIG. 9") provides a diagram that aids in understanding how the magnetic locking mechanism and the anti-failure impact protection mechanism operate when a magnetic field is applied to the security tag during the separation process.

[0023] Fig.10 A flow chart of an illustrative method for operating a security tag is provided.

[0024] Fig.11 A diagram of an illustrative architecture of a separation unit is provided.

[0025] Fig.12 A diagram of an illustrative architecture for a computing device is provided. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] It is readily understood that the various components of the embodiments as generally described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings may be arranged and designed into a variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following more detailed description of a number of different embodiments as represented in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is merely representative of a number of different embodiments. Although a number of different aspects of the embodiments are presented in the accompanying drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated.

[0027] The present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential features of the present invention. The described embodiments are considered to be illustrative and non-restrictive in all respects. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than this detailed description. All changes within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims are included within the scope of the claims.

[0028] References to features, advantages, or similar language throughout the specification do not imply that all features and advantages that may be achieved by the present invention should be included in the present invention or in any single embodiment of the present invention. Rather, language referring to features and advantages is understood to mean that at least one embodiment of the present invention includes a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiment. Thus, discussion of features and advantages and similar language throughout the specification may, but need not, refer to the same embodiment.

[0029] In addition, in one or more embodiments, the described features, advantages and characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner. Based on the description herein, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the present invention may be implemented without one or more specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other examples, it may be recognized that in certain embodiments, the additional features and advantages of all embodiments of the present invention may not be present.

[0030] Reference throughout the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the illustrated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout the specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0031] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" used in this document include plural referents. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The term "including" used in this document means "including but not limited to".

[0032] The present solution relates to a magnetic locking mechanism for a security tag that resists failure caused by high-force impacts, such as when the security tag is dropped or forcefully struck against a hard surface. The security tag includes a housing formed of a rigid material, such as injection molded plastic. A pin channel is defined within the housing. The pin channel is arranged to removably receive a pin therein along an axis of the pin channel. A latch assembly is disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including a latch disposed adjacent to the pin channel. The latch is configured to engage the pin in a locking manner when in a locked position, and is configured to release the pin when moved to an unlocked position.

[0033] The latch assembly also includes a plunger formed of a material responsive to the applied magnetic field. The plunger has an engagement surface that interacts with a base portion of the latch. A plunger guide channel is formed in the housing, and the plunger guide channel is arranged to facilitate translational movement of the plunger along the axis of the guide channel. Therefore, when the plunger is exposed to the applied magnetic field, the plunger can move from a first position to a second position within the guide channel. An elastic member (e.g., a latch spring) is arranged to elastically push the engagement surface of the plunger into contact with the base portion of the latch. The latch moves from the locked position as described above to the unlocked position in response to the translational movement of the plunger from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0034] The impact block is disposed within the housing so as to be adjacent to the end of the plunger opposite the engagement surface. A portion of the housing is configured to hold the impact block at a variable given position relative to the housing. In some cases, a slot may be formed in the housing into which the impact block may be pressed or otherwise inserted.

[0035] The impact block may have a recess configured to receive a portion of the end of the plunger to help prevent the plunger from moving out of the plunger guide channel. The impact block may be formed of metal and configured and arranged to absorb shock when the tag is dropped or strongly impacted in an attempt to disable the tag, thereby preventing the plunger from being pushed to the unlocked position.

[0036] The impact spring is disposed between the housing wall and the impact block, or is otherwise positioned between a fixed member in the housing and the impact block. The impact spring is arranged and positioned to bias the impact block axially on the plunger so that the plunger is urged toward the first position.

[0037] When the security tag is subjected to a drop / impact force, the impact spring is caused to begin to oscillate. When the strong impact begins to displace the latch from the locked position, the impact block strikes the plunger, which transmits a force to the latch mechanism, thereby biasing the latch mechanism in the locked position. As a result, the locking mechanism will not open. Thus, the device of the present invention is used to more securely lock the tag using the destructive force applied to the tag.

[0038] Reference now Figure 1 , a diagram of an illustrative EAS system 100 is provided. EAS systems are well known in the art and are therefore not described in detail herein. Also, it should be understood that this document will describe the present solution in relation to an acoustomagnetic (or magnetostrictive) EAS system. The present solution is not limited thereto. The EAS system 100 may alternatively include a magnetic EAS system, an RF EAS system, a microwave EAS system, or other types of EAS systems. In all cases, the EAS system 100 generally prevents someone from taking items from a retail store without permission.

[0039] In this regard, the security tag 108 is securely attached to items (e.g., clothing, toys, and other merchandise) sold at a retail store. Figure 3 -9 describes an illustrative architecture of a security tag 108. At the exit of a retail store, when a detection device 114 senses an active security tag 108 in its vicinity, the detection device sounds an alarm or otherwise alerts a store clerk. This alarm or alert notifies the clerk that someone is attempting to take items from the retail store without proper authorization.

[0040] In some cases, the detection device 114 includes antenna mounts 112, 116 and an electronic unit 118. The antenna mounts 112, 116 are configured to form a surveillance zone at an exit or checkout lane of a retail store by transmitting an EAS interrogation signal. The EAS interrogation signal causes the active security tag 108 to produce a detectable response if someone attempts to take an item from the retail store. For example, the security tag 108 can cause a disturbance in the interrogation signal, as will be described in detail below.

[0041] The antenna mounts 112, 116 may also be configured to act as RFID readers. In these cases, the antenna mounts 112, 116 transmit RFID interrogation signals for obtaining RFID data from the active security tag 108. The RFID data may include, but is not limited to, a unique identifier for the active security tag 108. In other cases, these RFID functions are provided by a separate device from the antenna mounts.

[0042] The security tag 108 can be deactivated and separated from the item using a detaching unit 106. Typically, a store clerk removes or detaches the security tag 108 from the item when the corresponding item has been purchased or has been authorized to be removed from the retail store. The detaching unit 106 is located at a checkout counter 110 of the retail store and is communicatively coupled to the POS terminal 102 via a wired link 104. Typically, the POS terminal 102 facilitates the purchase of items from the retail store.

[0043] Separation units and POS terminals are well known in the art and are therefore not described herein. POS terminal 102 may include any known or to-be-known POS terminal, with or without any modifications. However, separation unit 106 includes any known or to-be-known separation unit selected according to a particular application, with some hardware and / or software modifications to facilitate implementation of the present solution (as will be more clearly described below). The hardware and / or software modifications may include, but are not limited to, the inclusion of an RFID-enabled device to facilitate RF communication with a security tag and / or a coil for selectively transmitting energy collected by the security tag.

[0044] In some cases, the separation unit 106 is configured to operate as an RFID reader. In this way, the separation unit 106 can transmit an RFID interrogation signal to obtain RFID data from the security tag. Upon receiving the unique identifier of the tag and / or the identifier of the item, the separation unit 106 passes its communication to the POS terminal 102. At the POS terminal 102, it is determined whether the received (multiple) identifiers are valid for the security tags of the retail store. If it is determined that the received (multiple) identifiers are valid for the security tags of the retail store, the POS terminal 102 notifies the separation unit 106 that the identifier has been verified, so the security tag 108 can be removed from the item.

[0045] At this point, the separation unit 106 operates to apply a magnetic field to the security tag 108. In response to the magnetic field, the pin is released from the locking mechanism of the security tag 108. Now, the pin can be removed from the security tag, whereby the security tag is separated from the object.

[0046] Reference now Figure 2 , provides a diagram of an illustrative architecture for a data network 200 in which a plurality of different components of the EAS system 100 are coupled together. The data network 200 includes a host computing device 204 that stores data about at least one of merchandise identification, inventory, and pricing. A first data signal path 220 allows bidirectional data communication between the host computing device 204 and the POS terminal 102. A second data signal path 222 allows data communication between the host computing device 204 and the programming unit 202. The programming unit 202 is typically configured to write product identification data and other information into the memory of the security tag 108. A third data signal path 224 allows data communication between the host computing device 204 and a base station 210. The base station 210 communicates wirelessly with a portable read / write unit 212. The portable read / write unit 212 reads data from the security tag to determine the inventory of the retail store, and writes data to the security tag. When the security tag is applied to merchandise, the data can be written to the security tag.

[0047] Reference now Figure 3-6 , provides an illustration of an illustrative architecture of a security tag 108. A security tag 108 may include more or less than Figure 3-6 However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative embodiment of implementing the present solution. Some or all of the components of the security tag 108 can be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. Hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. Figure 3-6 The hardware architecture of represents a representative security tag configured to facilitate preventing unauthorized removal of items from a retail store facility.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the security tag 108 includes an antenna 302 and an RF-enabled device 350. The RF-enabled device 350 allows data to be exchanged with an external device via RF technology. The antenna 302 is configured to receive RF signals from the external device and transmit RF signals generated by the RF-enabled device 350. The RF-enabled device 350 includes an RF transceiver 304. RF transceivers are well known in the art and are therefore not described herein. Any known or to-be-known RF transceiver may be used herein.

[0049] The security tag 108 also includes a magnetic locking mechanism 316 and a pin (or nail) 322 for securing the security tag to an article. Magnetic locking mechanisms and pins are well known in the art and are therefore not described in detail herein. In some cases, the magnetic locking mechanism includes a plunger 318 that switches between an engaged position, in which the plunger 318 prevents the pin (or nail) 322 from being removed from the security tag 108, and a disengaged position, in which the pin (or nail) 322 is no longer prevented from being removed from the security tag 108 by the pin (or nail) 322. The pin (or nail) 322 is secured to the security tag 108 via a latch 324 of the magnetic locking mechanism 316 that is engaged with the plunger 318. When the plunger 318 is disengaged from the latch 324 by applying a magnetic field to the magnetic locking mechanism 316, the pin (or nail) 322 is released from the magnetic locking mechanism 316. During the separation process, the separation unit 106 generates a magnetic field.

[0050] During the separation process, the RF transceiver 304 may receive an RF signal from the separation unit 106. The controller 302 of the security tag 108 processes the received RF signal to extract information therein. The information may include, but is not limited to, a request for specific information (e.g., the unique identifier 310). If the extracted information includes a request for specific information, the controller 306 may perform an operation to retrieve the unique identifier 310 from the memory 308. The retrieved information is then sent from the security tag 108 to the separation unit 106 via RF communication facilitated by the RF transceiver 304.

[0051] The memory 308 may be a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory 308 may include, but is not limited to, a random access memory ("RAM"), a dynamic random access memory ("DRAM"), a static random access memory ("SRAM"), a read-only memory ("ROM"), and flash memory. The memory 308 may also include a non-secure memory and / or a secure memory. As used herein, the phrase "non-secure memory" refers to a memory configured to store data in plain text form. As used herein, the phrase "secure memory" refers to a memory configured to store data in encrypted form, and / or a memory having or being disposed in a secure or tamper-resistant housing.

[0052] Security tag 108 further includes an anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320. Anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 is provided to prevent unlocking of magnetic locking mechanism 316 due to a strong impact to security tag 108. The manner in which anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 prevents such undesired unlocking will become apparent as the discussion proceeds.

[0053] Reference now Figure 4, provides an illustration showing that the pin (or nail) 306 is removably coupled to the security tag 108. In this regard, it should be noted that the security tag 108 includes an at least partially hollow housing 418. The housing 418 can be formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic. The housing 418 can be formed of a plurality of portions 418a, 418b, 418c, such as Figure 6 The housing 418 has a recessed hole 440 formed therein, into which the pin (or nail) 306 is inserted.

[0054] The pin (or nail) 306 includes a head 408 and a shaft 410. The shaft 310 is inserted into a recessed hole 440 formed in the housing 318. The shaft 310 is held in place in the recessed hole 440 via a magnetic locking mechanism 316 mounted inside the housing 318. As described above, the magnetic locking mechanism 316 includes a plunger 318 and a latch 324. Figure 4 , the magnetic locking mechanism 316 is in its locked position. In the locked position, the plunger 318 engages with the latch 324 to removably couple the pin (or nail) 306 to the security tag 108.

[0055] The plunger 318 is actuated by or otherwise responsive to a magnetic field applied to the security tag 108. When actuated by the magnetic field, the plunger 318 moves in a direction 450 along an axis 428 within the guide channel 422. In effect, the plunger 318 disengages the latch 324. When the plunger 318 no longer engages the latch 324, the magnetic locking mechanism 316 is in its unlocked position (not shown).

[0056] When the magnetic field is stopped, the plunger 318 moves in the guide channel 422 in the direction 452. In this regard, it should be understood that the plunger 318 is resiliently biased in the direction 452 by a resilient member 426 disposed along the extended length of the plunger 318. The resilient member may include, but is not limited to, a spring. In the case of a spring, the resilient member 426 is typically positioned such as Figure 4 When the plunger moves in direction 450, the plunger 318 causes the elastic member 426 to compress ( Figure 4 ). Thus, when the magnetic field is no longer applied to the security tag 108, the resilient member 426 transitions to its uncompressed state, thereby automatically returning the plunger 318 to engagement with the latch 324.

[0057] The anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 includes an impact block 430 and an impact spring 432. The impact block and / or the impact spring may be formed of metal. These impact components 430, 432 are adjusted to allow the plunger 318 to disengage from the latch 324 when a magnetic field is applied thereto, and to prevent the plunger 318 from disengaging from the latch 324 due to the impact force applied to the security tag 108. In this regard, the impact block 430 contacts the end 434 of the plunger 318 and is disposed between the plunger 318 and the impact spring 432. In some cases, the impact block 430 has a hole ( Figure 4 436, into which a portion of the plunger end 434 is inserted. A structure 436 is provided in which the impact block 430 and the impact spring 432 are arranged. Both components 430, 432 can move in opposite directions 450, 452 within the structure 436, but cannot move in opposite directions 454, 456 within the structure 436.

[0058] When an impact force is applied to the security tag 108, the impact block 430 moves in the direction 450, thereby compressing the impact spring 432. The impact spring 432 then oscillates for a short period of time before returning to the Figure 4 Thus, the failure-proof impact protection mechanism 320 absorbs the shock caused by the impact force and prevents the plunger 318 from disengaging the latch 324. More specifically, the impact block 430 transmits the impact force toward the latch 324, thereby biasing the magnetic locking mechanism 316 to Figure 4 The locked position is shown. Thus, the magnetic lock mechanism 316 will not unlock or open. Therefore, the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 is used to utilize the destructive force applied to the security tag 108 to more securely lock the pin 306 in the security tag housing 418.

[0059] The magnetostrictive active EAS element 414 and the bias magnet 402 are also optionally disposed within the housing 418. These components 414, 402 may be the same or similar to the components disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,510,489. In some cases, the resonant frequency of the components 414, 402 may be similar to that of the EAS system (e.g., Figure 1 The EAS system 100 of the present invention is operated at the same frequency (e.g., 58 kHz). In addition, the EAS element 414 is formed of a thin ribbon of a substantially completely amorphous metal-metal alloy. The bias magnet 402 is formed of a rigid or semi-rigid ferromagnetic material. The embodiments are not limited to the details of these circumstances.

[0060] During operation, the EAS system (e.g. Figure 1 The EAS system 100) has an antenna base (e.g., Figure 1The antenna mounts 112, 116 of the antenna structure transmit a periodic tone pulse train (i.e., the EAS interrogation signal) at a specific frequency (e.g., 58 kHz) that is the same as the resonant frequency of the amorphous strip. This causes the strip to vibrate longitudinally through magnetostriction and continue to oscillate after the pulse train ends. The vibrations cause magnetic changes in the amorphous strip, which in turn generates an AC voltage ( Figure 3 Antenna structure ( Figure 3 The oscillator (not shown) converts the AC voltage into radio waves. If the radio waves meet the required parameters (correct frequency, repeatability, etc.), an alarm is activated.

[0061] 7-8 , illustrations are provided to help understand how the magnetic locking mechanism 316 operates when an impact force is applied to the security tag 108 without the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 , and how the magnetic locking mechanism 316 operates when an impact force is applied to the security tag 108 with the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 .

[0062] Reference now Fig. 7A , provides an illustration showing the magnetic locking mechanism 316 in a locked or latched position. In the locked or latched position, the plunger 318 is engaged with the latch 324. The resilient member 426 is in an uncompressed state.

[0063] Reference now Figure 7B , provides a diagram showing the application of an impact force 708 to the magnetic locking mechanism 316. Due to the impact force 708, the plunger 318 moves along Figure 7C-7D The plunger 318 moves in the direction 710 shown, whereby the flange 712 of the plunger 318 compresses the resilient member 426 and the plunger 318 disengages the latch 324. Therefore, the magnetic locking mechanism 316 is undesirably failed due to the impact force 708. An anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 is provided to prevent such failure of the magnetic locking mechanism 316.

[0064] Reference now Fig. 8A , a diagram showing the magnetic locking mechanism 316 in a locked or latched position is provided. In the locked or latched position, the plunger 318 is engaged with the latch 324. The resilient member 426 is in an uncompressed state. The resilient member 432 of the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 is also in an uncompressed state, and the impact block 430 is in a first position relative to the latch 324.

[0065] Reference now Figure 8B , provides a diagram showing the impact force 800 applied to the magnetic lock mechanism 316 and the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320. Due to the impact force 800, the plunger 318 moves along Figure 7C-7DThe piston 318 moves in the direction 802 shown, whereby the flange 712 of the piston 318 compresses the elastic member 426 and the impact block 430 compresses the impact spring 432, as shown in FIG. Figure 7C As shown. The impact spring 432 absorbs energy during its compression, oscillates for a short period of time, and then releases the energy while providing a reactive impact force in direction 804 when it returns to its uncompressed state. In fact, the impact spring 432 elastically biases the impact block 430 in direction 804, as shown. Fig.7D The resiliently biased impact block 430 exerts a thrust on the plunger 318, thereby causing the plunger 318 to travel in direction 804 toward the latch 324. It is noteworthy that the plunger 318 will never disengage the latch 324 due to the impact force applied to the security tag 108.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 9 , a diagram is provided to aid in understanding how magnetic locking mechanism 316 operates and how anti-fail-shock protection mechanism 320 operates when a magnetic field is applied to security tag 108 during the separation process.

[0067] Reference now Fig. 9A , a diagram showing the magnetic locking mechanism 316 in a locked or latched position is provided. In the locked or latched position, the plunger 318 is engaged with the latch 324. The resilient member 426 is in an uncompressed state. The resilient member 432 of the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 is also in an uncompressed state, and the impact block 430 is in a first position relative to the latch 324.

[0068] Reference now Fig. 9B , provides an illustration showing the application of a magnetic field 900 to the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 and the magnetic locking mechanism 316. The magnetic field 900 causes the impact block 430 and the plunger 318 to be attracted toward the magnetic field source. As a result, the impact block 430 and the plunger 318 are attracted along Fig. 9C The piston 318 moves in the direction 900 shown, whereby the impact block 430 moves to a second position relative to the latch 324 and the plunger 318 disengages the latch 324, as shown in FIG. Fig.9D It is worth noting that when the magnetic field 900 is applied to the security tag 108, the anti-failure structure allows the plunger 318 to travel a first distance 910 in a direction away from the latch 324; when the impact force 800 is applied to the security tag 108, the anti-failure structure allows the plunger 318 to travel a second distance 810 in the same direction, and the first distance is greater than the second distance. When the magnetic field 900 is stopped, the anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 and the magnetic locking mechanism 316 return to Fig. 9A Position shown.

[0069] Reference now Fig.10 , provides a method for operating safety tags (e.g. Figure 1108). The method 1000 begins at 1002 and continues to 1004, where a plunger (e.g., Figure 3 -9) engages a latch of a security tag (e.g., Figure 3 -9 latch 324). Next, at 1006, when an impact force (e.g., impact force 800 of FIG. 8) is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure of the security tag (e.g., Figure 3 -9's anti-failure impact protection mechanism 320 prevents the plunger from disengaging from the latch. When an impact force is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure prevents the plunger from disengaging from the latch by absorbing the energy generated by the impact force and releasing the energy to provide a reaction impact force in a direction toward the latch (e.g., direction 804 of FIG. 8 ). The reaction impact force causes the plunger to be pushed in a direction toward the latch before the plunger moves out of the latch due to the impact force. In 1008, when a magnetic field (e.g., magnetic field 900 of FIG. 9 ) is applied to the security tag, the anti-failure structure allows the plunger to disengage from the latch. When a magnetic field is applied to the security tag, the energy is absorbed by the anti-failure structure while the plunger is attracted to the magnetic field source (e.g., Fig.11 1008), the fail-safe structure allows the plunger to disengage from the latch. When a magnetic field is applied to the security tag, the fail-safe structure allows the plunger to travel a first distance (e.g., distance 910 of FIG. 9 ) in a direction away from the latch, and when an impact force is applied to the security tag, the plunger is allowed to travel a second distance (e.g., distance 810 of FIG. 8 ) in a direction away from the latch. The first distance is greater than the second distance. After completing 1008, 1010 is executed, where the method 1000 ends or performs other operations (e.g., returns to 1004).

[0070] In some cases, the anti-failure structure includes an impact block that is elastically biased toward the plunger by an impact spring. The impact block is disposed between the plunger and the impact spring and is always in contact with the plunger. When energy is absorbed by the anti-failure structure, the impact spring is in a compressed state, and when the anti-failure structure releases energy, the impact spring is converted from a compressed state to an uncompressed state. When energy is released by the anti-failure structure, the impact spring causes the impact block to apply a thrust to the plunger. The thrust causes the plunger to move toward the latch and the plunger remains engaged with the latch despite the impact force.

[0071] like Fig.11 As shown, the separate unit 106 includes a computing device 1102, an RF transceiver 1104, a power source 1106 (e.g., an AC power source), and a field source 1108 (e.g., a coil). The RF transceiver, the power source, and the field source are well known in the art and are therefore not described in detail herein. It should also be noted that the computing device 1102 controls when the RF transceiver 1104 and the power source 1106 perform the above-mentioned operations for verifying the security tag (e.g., Figure 1All or part of the method of separating the security tag 108) from the article.

[0072] Reference now Fig.12 , provides a diagram of an illustrative architecture of a computing device 1102. The computing device 1102 may include more or less than Fig.12 However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose an illustrative solution for implementing the present solution. Fig.12 The hardware architecture of represents one embodiment of a representative computing device configured to provide the improved component return process as described herein. Fig.12 The computing device 1102 implements at least a portion of the method(s) described herein.

[0073] Some or all components of the computing device 1200 may be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuits may include, but are not limited to, passive components (e.g., resistors and capacitors) and / or active components (e.g., amplifiers and / or microprocessors). The passive components and / or active components may be adapted, arranged, and / or programmed to perform one or more of the methods, processes, or functions described herein.

[0074] like Fig.12 As shown, the computing device 1102 includes a user interface 1202, a central processing unit ("CPU") 1206, a system bus 1210, a memory 1212 connected to and accessible by other parts of the computing device 1102 through the system bus 1210, a system interface 1260, and hardware entities 1214 connected to the system bus 1210. The user interface may include input devices and output devices that facilitate user-software interaction for controlling the operation of the computing device 1102. The input devices include, but are not limited to, a physical keyboard and / or a touch keyboard 1250. The input devices may be connected via a wired or wireless connection (e.g., The system interface 1260 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communications to and from external devices (e.g., network nodes such as access points).

[0075] At least some of the hardware entities 1214 perform actions involving accessing and using memory 1212, which may be random access memory ("RAM"), a disk drive, and / or a compact disk read-only memory ("CD-ROM"). The hardware entities 1214 may include a disk drive unit 1216, which includes a computer-readable storage medium 1218 having stored thereon one or more sets of instructions 1220 (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methods, processes, or functions described herein. The instructions 1220 may also reside, in whole or in part, within the memory 1212 and / or within the CPU 1206 during execution by the computing device 1102. The memory 1212 and the CPU 1206 may also constitute machine-readable media. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) storing one or more sets of instructions 1220. The term "machine-readable medium" as used herein also refers to any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying the set of instructions 1220 for execution by the computing device 1102 and causing the computing device 1102 to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure.

[0076] In light of the present disclosure, all devices, methods, and algorithms disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation. Although the present invention has been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it is apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the sequence of steps of the devices, methods, and methods may be changed without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present invention. More specifically, it is apparent that certain components may be added, combined, or replaced to the components described herein while achieving the same or similar results. All such similar substitutions and modifications apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the present invention as defined.

[0077] The features and functions disclosed above and alternatives may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various currently unforeseen or unanticipated substitutions, modifications, changes or improvements may be made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be included in the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

1. A safety label, comprising: case; as well as A magnetic locking mechanism is at least partially contained in the housing, the magnetic locking mechanism comprising: a latch configured to engage a pin of the tag in a locking manner when the tag is locked and to release the pin when the tag is unlocked; Plunger; a latch spring, wherein the latch spring biases a first end of the plunger adjacent the latch toward the latch in a first direction, the first end engaging the latch to lockingly engage the pin when the tag is locked, and disengaging the latch to release the pin when the tag is unlocked by applying a magnetic force to the plunger in a second direction opposite the first direction; impact block; and Impact spring, The impact block and impact spring are each aligned with the plunger along an axis in the first direction, the impact spring contacts the housing and biases the impact block in the first direction, and the impact block is constrained to move in the second direction against the biasing force of the impact spring when the plunger moves in the second direction.

2. The label according to claim 1, wherein: The impact block is disposed between the impact spring and the first end of the plunger.

3. The label according to claim 1, wherein: The impact block is adjacent to an end of the plunger distal from the first end.

4. The label according to claim 1, wherein: A guide channel is formed in the housing on the axis in the first direction, and the plunger is seated in the channel.

5. The label according to claim 1, wherein: A slot is formed in the housing on the axis in the first direction, and the impact block is seated in the slot.

6. The label according to claim 1, wherein: The impact block defines a recess therein to receive a portion of the distal end of the plunger, the distal end of the plunger being seated in the recess.

Images