Clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus

Abstract

A tracking device locking enclosure apparatus is provided for securely retaining and protecting an electronic tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag®, enabling secure attachment to clothing or other personal items without damage. The apparatus includes a top housing member with internal retention structures and a bottom housing plate member that interlock to retain the electronic tracking device. A base retention plate and a retention ring firmly clamp fabric therebetween to secure the enclosure to a user. In a primary embodiment, a retention screw locks the assembly to prevent unauthorized removal. The apparatus further includes optional features, such as a snap-on cosmetic disc for aesthetic customization and may incorporate NFC technology for caregiver contact. In an alternative embodiment, an unlocking tool that is U-shaped with engagement pins is configured to engage sidewall apertures to displace internal latches for authorized access, which is performed after manually removing the snap-on cosmetic disc.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 63 / 740,537 , filed Dec. 31, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention pertains to small electronic enclosures and more specifically to an apparatus for attachment to clothing designed to enclose a tracking device that does not damage the clothing.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The monitoring of children is an important aspect of keeping them safe. It is common for parents of newborns to monitor their infants while sleeping by means of an electronic monitoring system. Such systems typically include a pair of radio units that often include one or more transmitters and / or receivers. The first radio unit includes a transmitter that is placed in the room of the sleeping newborn so that the parents can listen to the infant's sleeping and breathing. If, in any given instance, the child starts crying or evidences a problem in breathing, the transmitter can pick up the sounds of the child and transmit them to its companion unit containing a receiver, whereby upon receipt of the radio transmission of the sounds, the parent or other monitoring person, can be alerted to come and check on the child.

[0004] In other instances, parents of a child may monitor that child and / or the child's caretaker by placing a video monitoring device in the room of the child, such monitoring devices may be configured to keep a video record of the child within the room and / or transmit the same, such as over an internal WI-FI network to an auxiliary receiving unit, allowing the parent to monitor the child within the room. In further instances, parents may keep track of the child by tracking the child's possession of a mobile telephone device. For instance, in various instances, a mobile device, such as in the possession of a child may be triangulated by the respective cell towers it comes into range with and the position of the cell phone can be transmitted over the cellular network to a third party monitor, such as a parent.

[0005] However, although there are many benefits in using devices similar to those set forth above, such as for the monitoring, tracking, and / or protecting of children, each of these devices may have certain drawbacks. For instance, while baby monitors are useful for monitoring an infant while it is sleeping, and video cameras may be useful for monitoring the room of a child, they are limited in usefulness since they are limited to monitoring sounds and images and do not track the movement of the child while outside the home. The mobile monitoring system provided by various tracking software installed on a person's mobile device, as discussed above, is useful in tracking the movement of the respective phone. However, although useful, such a monitoring and tracking system also suffers from certain drawbacks, as such monitoring systems rely on the mobile device being tracked and are, therefore, dependent on the battery life of the phones and the child keeping the mobile device on their person. Since phones are used for several different purposes, besides tracking and monitoring the whereabouts of the phone, this battery life does not last long, making the use of the phone as a tracking device less than ideal.

[0006] Unfortunately, losing track of children is not uncommon, with dozens of children getting lost in major amusement parks, malls, grocery stores, and other crowded places every day. Being lost in an unfamiliar place creates stress for both children and parents, which impacts the individuals on both a physiological and psychological level and leads them to be less likely to visit crowded locations in the future.

[0007] Furthermore, assisted living facilities and hospitals must take great care to monitor the location of residents and patients, notably those who have dementia. To avoid losing residents and patients who may tend to leave the areas they are supposed to be in, certain electronic devices have been created and put into use. Whether leaving intentionally or not, these scenarios create similar stress for the individual, caretakers, and family members alike. Therefore, it is important to securely manage the location of individuals to reduce the likelihood of stressful situations and loss.

[0008] Various methods of managing the location of individuals and items are known, including radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags and wristbands, proximity-based linked devices, and microchipping. These systems often include a physical device that is permanently placed. These systems are also operable to relay information to other devices within the system when touched or in very close proximity.

[0009] Such tracking devices, including electronic tracking devices, for example, the Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc., or similar devices, are often retained within enclosures that prevent the electronic tracking devices from getting physically damaged, scratched, dinged, marred, exposed to fluid, etc. while also keeping the tracking device attached to the person or items that need to be tracked. Additionally, such cases or enclosures are designed to absorb an impact sustained when dropped. Often such enclosures are easily removed, are uncomfortable for the user to wear, and / or pierce or otherwise damage the clothing of the user. For example, pins create permanent holes in fabric, strong magnets can be difficult for caregivers to operate, and simple clips are easily dislodged by an active child or disoriented patient.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a device that is configured to securely enclose, protect, and strongly fasten to clothing, without damage, electronic tracking devices, which are used to identify, locate, and / or monitor one or more conditions of a user. It would additionally be beneficial if such enclosure devices were also inexpensive, easy to manufacture, mobile, and comfortable for the user to wear. The enclosure devices described herein have been developed for effective attachment of an electronic tracking device to the clothing of a child or persons with cognitive disabilities, such as dementia. Such solutions require that the enclosure devices include optimization of secure attachment to clothing, while ensuring the comfort of the user, are lightweight, are secured to clothing without damage, and are difficult for the user to remove.DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0011] Losing track of a child or loved one with severe cognitive disabilities causes great pain and anxiety. Often the individual who has lost track of the child or loved one is left with feelings of extreme terror and helplessness. Having the ability to keep track of that loved one is an extremely important way of preventing such loss. The additional ability to ensure that the device keeping track of that loved one is secured to and comfortable for that loved one is an excellent way of providing relief from the anxiety of losing track of that loved one.

[0012] Electronic tracking devices have been available in the market for quite some time. Devices for protecting and attaching such tracking devices to a person have also been available in the market beginning shortly after the release of any such electronic tracking device. There are different types of existing protective and attachment cases for electronic tracking devices that are available in a multitude of various shapes, sizes, and formats, which have the basic utility of protecting the electronic tracking device from the elements and physical damage from impacts. Additionally, these existing cases have a multitude of options for attaching the electronic tracking device to a person or object.

[0013] Many people find comfort and a sense of security in being able to keep track of a loved one without having to rely on that loved one to provide details of their location themselves. The ability to ensure that the device providing location tracking of the loved one is secured such that it is nearly impossible to remove the tracking device from the clothing of the loved one, while still being comfortable for the loved one to wear helps to create a soothing and calming environment for the concerned individual. It is the goal of the present invention to utilize the benefits of electronic tracking devices, such as the Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc., while providing the ability to protect the device from damage and securing it clothing without causing damage to the clothing provides relief and a sense of safety for the parent or individual concerned about the location of a loved one.

[0014] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2024 / 0254809 A1 discloses a case for an electronic tracking device, whereby the case includes a base defining a cavity, a cap including a front member and one or more sidewalls that extend transversely from an inner surface of the front member, and a sealing member positioned between the cap and the base, wherein the cap is releasably coupled to the base and, when coupled to the base, the sealing member is compressed between the cap to the base to seal the cavity in the base.

[0015] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2020 / 0337162 A1 discloses a mounting base for use with a wirelessly locatable tag, which includes a base portion defining a latching member configured to engage a wirelessly locatable tag to releasably retain the wirelessly locatable tag to the mounting base, a contact block attached to the base portion and configured to be positioned at least partially within a battery cavity of the wirelessly locatable tag, the contact block defining a top side and a peripheral side. Further disclosed, the mounting base further includes a first conductive member positioned along the peripheral side of the contact block and configured to contact a first battery contact in the battery cavity of the wirelessly locatable tag, a second conductive member outwardly biased from the top side of the contact block, the second conductive member configured to contact a second battery contact in the battery cavity of the tag, and a power cable coupled to the base portion.

[0016] All aforementioned patents and publications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] While these devices may be suitable for the particular purpose for which they were designed, they do not provide the unique combination of features for protecting and securely attaching a tracking device to clothing without damage as disclosed hereafter.

[0018] While the prior art discloses various devices and apparatuses for protecting electronic tracking devices and attaching said tracking devices to a person or object, the present invention implements the use of a system that ensures protection of the tracking device, while securely attaching the device to a person or object. Additionally, the invention disclosed herein provides the advantage of being comfortable to wear while making it nearly impossible for the wearer to remove the device to help parents and a person concerned with the whereabouts of a loved one deal with feelings of anxiety and fear, by providing enhanced security.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] It is one prospect of the present invention to provide an enclosure apparatus for containing an electronic tracking device that securely fits onto clothing without damage to said clothing, whereby the apparatus is designed to utilize a novel locking mechanism that allows for secure attachment to clothing without damage to the clothing and is nearly impossible to be removed by a child or cognitively disabled individual to ensure the safety and location of the wearer.

[0020] The following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented herein.

[0021] Therefore, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a tracking device locking enclosure apparatus. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus comprises a top housing member adapted to receive and retain an electronic tracking device, the top housing member includes one or more sidewalls extending vertically from an inner top housing surface defining an interior top housing cavity oriented opposite an exterior shallow top housing cavity, which is formed on an exterior top housing surface. The top housing member includes at least two interior sidewall apertures formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls of the top housing member. At least two top housing latch members extruding from the interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls of the top housing member, each respectively oriented above each of the at least two interior sidewall apertures. At least two semi-circular retention struts rising from the interior top housing surface, each terminating at the at least two interior sidewall apertures, respectively. The top housing member includes at least four vertical retention struts spaced equidistantly around and vertically rising from the at least two semi-circular retention struts. The at least four vertical retention struts and the at least two semi-circular retention struts adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device within the interior top housing cavity on the inner top housing surface. At least one receiving aperture formed through the inner top housing surface and oriented laterally from one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures. A raised partial ring vertically formed from the exterior top housing surface defining the exterior shallow top housing cavity, said raised partial ring terminating at the at least one receiving aperture. A receiving indentation formed into the exterior top housing surface and extending into the raised partial ring, said receiving indentation oriented opposite the at least one receiving aperture.

[0022] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus further includes a bottom housing plate member comprising a first plate surface opposite a second plate surface. The first plate surface forms a non-circular base portion, which is centrally located and rising from the first plate surface, a housing screw aperture is centrally formed through the non-circular base portion. At least two semi-circular apertures oppositely formed around the non-circular base portion and through the bottom housing plate member. At least two bottom plate latches oppositely formed and vertically rising from the second plate surface of the bottom housing plate member. The at least two bottom plate latches adapted to removably engage and retain the at least two interior sidewall apertures when the bottom housing plate member is inserted into the top housing member.

[0023] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus also further includes a detent plate member which comprises a centrally located detent aperture. The detent plate member comprises a first detent surface opposite a second detent surface. The detent plate forms at least four exteriorly protruding detent nodes and at least two substantially L-shaped canals are formed within at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes. Each of the at least two substantially L-shaped canals include an L-shaped protuberance extending into the centrally located detent aperture. At least two retention protuberances are vertically formed and extending from the second detent surface oriented on the other at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes. Each of the at least two retention protuberances are adapted to be received by and slidably engage the at least two semi-circular apertures of the bottom housing plate member.

[0024] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus also further includes a base retention plate member, which comprises at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes and a base plate screw aperture. The base plate screw aperture is formed through the base retention plate member. The base retention plate member includes a first retention plate surface that is located opposite a second retention plate surface. An indented retention plate ring is vertically and centrally rising from the second retention plate surface. The indented retention plate ring defines an interior base retention canal having a substantially non-circular shape. The interior base retention canal is adapted to engage and retain the non-circular base portion of the bottom housing plate member. A retention screw is adapted to engage and be retained within the base plate screw aperture and the housing screw aperture. A retention ring, which comprises at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes adapted to slidably engage with the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member. When the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus is attached to an article of clothing, whereby the article of clothing is located between the retention ring and the base retention plate member, and results in securing the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus to the article of clothing.

[0025] In one embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus further includes a snap-on cosmetic disc member that is adapted for retention within the raised partial ring and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity of the top housing member. The snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a top cosmetic surface that is oriented opposite a bottom hidden surface. The snap-on cosmetic disc member further forms a protruding cosmetic tab portion and at least one protruding hidden tab portion, each extending oppositely and horizontally from the snap-on cosmetic disc member. A cosmetic latch member vertically extends from the bottom hidden surface of the protruding cosmetic tab portion of the snap-on cosmetic disc member. The protruding hidden tab portion is adapted for insertion into and retention by the receiving indentation of the top housing member. The cosmetic latch member is adapted for removable retention within the at least one receiving aperture of the top housing member. The top cosmetic surface is adapted for displaying graphic designs and / or character imagery to enhance the aesthetics of the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus.

[0026] In another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure is formed from a light weight durable plastic such as ABS plastic.

[0027] In yet another embodiment, the electronic tracking device is an Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc.

[0028] In even yet another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure is adapted to be attached to an article of clothing worn by a child.

[0029] In another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure is adapted to be attached to an article of clothing worn by an individual with severe cognitive disability.

[0030] In yet another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure is adapted to be attached to a backpack or other fabric bag.

[0031] In another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure further includes a cover sleeve adapted to wrap around the tracking device locking enclosure.

[0032] In yet another embodiment, the cover sleeve is composed of a silicone material.

[0033] In even yet another embodiment, the cover sleeve is optionally formed in a shape, such as, but not limited to, either a flower, star, square, triangle, heart, or any other suitable shape known in the art.

[0034] In some embodiments, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure may be in the shape of either a square, star, heart, triangle, trapezoid, or any other suitable shape known in the art.

[0035] In yet another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus for retaining an electronic tracking device and adapted to securely engage with an article of clothing is disclosed. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a top housing member having an inner top housing surface and one or more sidewalls extending vertically from the inner top housing surface defining an interior top housing cavity to receive the electronic tracking device. The top housing member also includes at least two interior sidewall apertures formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls, and a plurality of retention struts arranged vertically from the inner top housing surface. The plurality of retention struts is adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device within the interior top housing cavity on the inner top housing surface. Further, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a bottom housing plate member removably engaged to and arranged covering the interior top housing cavity to securely retain the electronic tracking device inside the interior top housing cavity. The bottom housing plate member includes a non-circular base portion located centrally and rising from a first plate surface of the bottom housing plate member. Further, a housing screw aperture is centrally formed through the non-circular base portion. Moreover, the bottom housing plate member includes at least two bottom plate latches oppositely formed and vertically rising from a second plate surface of the bottom housing plate member. The at least two bottom plate latches are removably engaged and retained inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures.

[0036] Furthermore, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a base retention plate member arranged removably coupled to the bottom housing plate member to securely retain the bottom housing plate member engaged with top housing member. The base retention plate member includes an indented retention plate ring vertically and centrally rising from a retention plate surface of the base retention plate member and defining a non-circular shaped interior base retention canal. The non-circular base portion of the bottom housing plate member is arranged inside the interior base retention canal. The base retention plate member also includes at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes extending radially outwardly from the indented plate ring and a base plate screw aperture arranged to be aligned with the housing screw aperture. Moreover, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a retention ring arranged surrounding the base plate retention member and including at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes slidably engaged with the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member. The article of clothing is arranged between the retention ring and the base retention plate member to securely engage the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus with the article of clothing. Further, a retention screw extends through the base plate screw aperture and the housing screw aperture to securing engage the retention ring, the bottom housing plate member, and the base retention plate member together.

[0037] In one embodiment, the plurality of retention struts includes at least two semi-circular retention struts rising from the interior top housing surface. Each of the semi-circular retention struts terminates at the at least two interior sidewall apertures.

[0038] In another embodiment, the plurality of retention struts further includes at least four vertical retention struts spaced equidistantly around and vertically rising from the at least two semi-circular retention struts.

[0039] In yet another embodiment, the top housing member includes at least two top housing latch members extruding from the interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls of the top housing member, each respectively oriented above associated one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures.

[0040] In one embodiment, the at least two bottom plate latches are arranged engaged with the at least two housing latch members.

[0041] In another embodiment, the top housing member includes a raised partial ring vertically formed from and exterior top housing surface defining the exterior shallow top housing cavity opposite to the interior housing cavity. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus further includes a snap-on cosmetic disc member arranged within the raised partial ring and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity of the top housing member.

[0042] In yet another embodiment, the top housing member defines the at least one receiving aperture extending from the inner top housing surface to the exterior top housing surface and oriented laterally from one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures. The snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a vertically extending cosmetic latch member extending inside the at least one receiving aperture, securing the snap-on cosmetic disc member with the top housing member and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity.

[0043] In one embodiment, the top housing member includes a receiving indentation formed into the exterior top housing surface and extending into the raised partial ring. The receiving indentation is oriented opposite to the at least one receiving aperture. The snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a protruding cosmetic tab portion and at least one protruding hidden tab portion arranged opposite to each other. The at least protruding tab portion extends inside the receiving indentation.

[0044] In another embodiment, the cosmetic latch member extends vertically downwardly from the protruding cosmetic tab portion.

[0045] In yet another embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus further includes a detent plate member arranged between the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member and engaged with the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member.

[0046] In one embodiment, the detent plate member includes a centrally located detent aperture, and the indented retention plate ring extends through the detent aperture positioning the non-circular base portion inside the correspondingly shaped interior base retention canal of the indented retention plate ring.

[0047] In another embodiment, an outer edge of the indented retention plate ring defines at least two radially inwardly extending apertures. The detent plate member includes protuberances extending inside the detent aperture and arranged inside the at least two radially inwardly extending apertures to securely engage the detent plate member with the indented retention plate.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the detent plate member includes four exteriorly protruding detent nodes arranged supported on the sidewall of the top housing member.

[0049] In one embodiment, the bottom housing plate member includes two apertures oppositely formed around the non-circular base portion. The detent plate member includes at least two vertically extending retention protuberances arranged on at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes and slidably extending inside the two apertures.

[0050] In another embodiment, a locking enclosure apparatus for attachment to an article of clothing is presented. The locking enclosure apparatus includes a top housing member and a bottom housing plate member configured to engage one another to form a main housing adapted to contain an electronic tracking device. The bottom housing plate member includes a non-circular base portion through which a housing screw aperture is formed. The locking enclosure apparatus also includes a base retention plate member coupled to the bottom housing plate member. The base retention plate member has a base plate screw aperture aligned with the housing screw aperture and a plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes. Furthermore, the locking enclosure apparatus includes a retention ring having a plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes adapted to slidably engage with the plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member. The retention ring and the base retention plate member are configured to clamp the article of clothing therebetween. Moreover, the locking enclosure apparatus includes a retention screw configured to pass through the base plate screw aperture and engage the housing screw aperture to secure the base retention plate member and the retention ring to the bottom housing plate member.

[0051] In one embodiment, the locking enclosure apparatus further includes a detent plate member arranged between the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member.

[0052] In another embodiment, the retention ring is secured within the apparatus by capturing the plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes between the detent plate member and the plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member.

[0053] In yet another embodiment, a locking enclosure apparatus for an electronic tracking device is presented. The locking enclosure apparatus includes a top housing member having an exterior top housing surface defining an exterior shallow top housing cavity and a raised partial ring. The top housing member further defines a receiving aperture and a receiving indentation. The locking enclosure apparatus also includes a bottom housing plate member removably engaged with the top housing member to form a secure interior cavity adapted to retain the electronic tracking device. Furthermore, the locking enclosure apparatus includes a snap-on cosmetic disc member removably coupled to the exterior top housing surface. The snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a protruding hidden tab portion configured for insertion into the receiving indentation of the top housing member, and a protruding cosmetic tab portion including a cosmetic latch member configured for removable retention within the receiving aperture of the top housing member.

[0054] In one embodiment, the top housing member further comprises a plurality of retention struts arranged on an inner top housing surface within the secure interior cavity. The plurality of retention struts is adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device.

[0055] In another embodiment, the locking enclosure apparatus further includes a decorative cover sleeve composed of a silicone material adapted to wrap around an exterior of the top housing member and the bottom housing plate member.

[0056] In a further embodiment, a tracking device locking enclosure apparatus for retaining an electronic tracking device that is adapted to securely engage with an article of clothing is presented. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a top housing member including one or more sidewalls extending vertically from an inner top housing surface, and at least two interior sidewall apertures formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus also includes a bottom housing plate member removably engaged with the top housing member. The bottom housing plate member includes at least two bottom plate latches oppositely formed and vertically rising from a second plate surface. The at least two bottom plate latches are removably engaged and retained inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures. Furthermore, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes a base retention plate member coupled to the bottom housing plate member, and a retention ring arranged surrounding the base retention plate member and adapted to clamp the article of clothing between the retention ring and the base retention plate member. Additionally, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus includes an unlocking tool including a substantially U-shaped body having a base with a first vertically extending arm and a second vertically extending arm. The unlocking tool includes a first engagement pin extending inwardly from the first vertically extending arm and a second engagement pin extending inwardly from the second vertically extending arm. Also, the first engagement pin and the second engagement pin are adapted to removably extend inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures to displace the at least two bottom plate latches, thereby disengaging the bottom housing plate member from the top housing member.

[0057] In one embodiment, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus also includes a detent plate member arranged between the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member.

[0058] In another embodiment, the retention ring includes a plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes and the base retention plate member includes a plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes. The retention ring is secured within the apparatus by capturing the plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes between the detent plate member and the plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] Having thus described example embodiments of the invention in general terms, illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0060] FIG. 1 is a top right perspective view of a clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] FIG. 2 is a back right perspective view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] FIG. 3 is a top elevation view thereof, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] FIG. 4 is a back elevation view thereof, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] FIG. 5 is a back partial perspective view of a top housing member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] FIG. 6 is a top partial perspective view of a top housing member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] FIG. 7 is a top elevation view of a bottom housing plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] FIG. 8 is a back elevation view of a bottom housing plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] FIG. 9 is a back right perspective view of the top housing member and the bottom housing plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] FIG. 10 is a back elevation view of a detent plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] FIG. 11 is a front elevation view thereof, showing the detent plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] FIG. 12 is a back right perspective view of the top housing member, the bottom housing plate member, and the detent plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] FIG. 13 is a back elevation view of a base retention plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] FIG. 14 is a top elevation view thereof, showing the base retention plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] FIG. 15 is a back right perspective view of the top housing member, the bottom housing plate member, the detent plate member, and the base retention plate member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] FIG. 16 is a back right perspective view of the top housing member, the bottom housing plate member, the detent plate member, the base retention plate member, and a retention screw of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] FIG. 17 is a top elevation view of a retention ring of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] FIG. 18 is a back elevation view of a retention ring of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] FIG. 19 is a top elevation view of a snap-on cosmetic disc member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] FIG. 20 is a back elevation view of a snap-on cosmetic disc member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] FIG. 21A is a top side perspective exploded view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] FIG. 21B is a bottom side perspective exploded view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0082] FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0083] FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus attached to a cloth, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] FIG. 24 is a right top side perspective view of a clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus depicting an unlocking tool appearing separated from a top housing member of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus without the unlocking tool, according to the alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0086] FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus depicting the unlocking tool engaged with the top housing member and a cosmetic disc member removed from the top housing member, according to the alternative embodiment of the present invention; and

[0087] FIG. 27 is a bottom side exploded perspective view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus, according to an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] For a further understanding of the nature and function of the embodiments, reference should be made to the following detailed description. Detailed descriptions of the embodiments are provided herein, as well as, the best mode of carrying out and employing the present invention. It will be readily appreciated that the embodiments are well adapted to carry out and obtain the ends and features mentioned as well as those inherent herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, persons of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following disclosure is illustrative only and not in any way limiting, as the specific details disclosed herein provide a basis for the claims and a representative basis for teaching to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure, or manner. It should be understood that the devices, materials, methods, procedures, and techniques described herein are presently representative of various embodiments. Other embodiments of the disclosure will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0089] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-23 , the basic constructional details and principles of operation of a clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be discussed.

[0090] FIGS. 1-6, 21A, and 21B illustrate a preferred embodiment of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-2 , and 5-6, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 comprises a top housing member 102 adapted to receive and retain an electronic tracking device (not shown). Referring to FIG. 5, the top housing member 102 includes one or more sidewalls 106 extending vertically from an inner top housing surface 108 defining an interior top housing cavity 110 oriented opposite an exterior shallow top housing cavity 112 (shown in FIG. 6), which is formed on an exterior top housing surface 114. The top housing member 102 includes at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface 118 of the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102. The interior sidewall aperture 116a is best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 while the interior sidewall aperture 116b is best shown in FIG. 9. Further, referring back to FIG. 5 the top housing member 102 includes at least two top housing latch members 120a, 120b extruding from the interior sidewall surface 118 of the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102, each respectively oriented above each of the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b.

[0091] Moreover, the top housing member 102 includes at least two semi-circular retention struts 122a, 122b rising from the interior top housing surface 108, each terminating at the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the top housing member 102 includes at least four vertical retention struts 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d spaced equidistantly around and vertically rising from the at least two semi-circular retention struts 122a, 122b. The at least four vertical retention struts 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d and the at least two semi-circular retention struts 122a, 122b are adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device within the interior top housing cavity 110 on the inner top housing surface 108.

[0092] Further, the top housing member 102 includes at least one receiving aperture 126 formed through the inner top housing surface 108 and oriented laterally from one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, as shown in FIGS. 5-6 . As illustrated in FIG. 6, the top housing member 102 also includes a raised partial ring 128 vertically formed from the exterior top housing surface 114 defining the exterior shallow top housing cavity 112. The raised partial ring 128 terminates at the at least one receiving aperture 126. A receiving indentation 130 is formed into the exterior top housing surface 114 and extends into the raised partial ring 128, the receiving indentation 130 is oriented opposite the at least one receiving aperture 126.

[0093] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, 21A, and 21B, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 further includes a bottom housing plate member 132 comprising a first plate surface 134, best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, opposite a second plate surface 136, best shown in FIG. 7. The bottom housing plate member 132 is removably engaged to and arranged covering the interior top housing cavity 110 to securely retain the electronic tracking device inside the interior top housing cavity 110. Turning to FIGS. 8 and 9, the first plate surface 134 forms a non-circular base portion 138, which is centrally located and rising from the first plate surface 134, a housing screw aperture 140 is centrally formed through the non-circular base portion 138, and at least two semi-circular apertures 142a, 142b oppositely formed around the non-circular base portion 138 and through the bottom housing plate member 132. In a preferred embodiment, the non-circular base portion 138 is substantially square in shape, as depicted in FIG. 8. Turning to FIG. 7, the bottom housing plate member 132 includes at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b are oppositely formed and vertically rise from the second plate surface 136 of the bottom housing plate member 132. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b are adapted to be removably engaged and inserted inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b when the bottom housing plate member 132 is inserted into the top housing member 102.

[0094] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 also further includes a detent plate member 146, which comprises a centrally located detent aperture 148 located centrally to the detent plate member 146, as illustrated in FIGS. 10-12, 21A, and 21B. The detent plate member 146 also comprises a first detent surface 150, shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, opposite a second detent surface 152, shown in FIG. 11. In such assembly, the second detent surface 152 is arranged facing the first plate surface 134 of the bottom housing plate member 132, as shown in FIG. 12. Further, the detent plate member 146 forms at least four exteriorly protruding detent nodes 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d and at least two substantially L-shaped canals 156a, 156b which are formed within at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding detent nodes 154a, 154c. Each of the at least two substantially L-shaped canals 156a, 156b include an L-shaped protuberance 158 extending into the centrally located detent aperture 148. As shown in FIG. 12, the at least four exteriorly protruding detent nodes 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d are arranged to be supported by a top rim of the one or more sidewalls 106 perpendicular to the interior sidewall surface 118 of the top housing member 102. Turning to FIG. 11, at least two retention protuberances 160a, 160b are vertically formed and extend from the second detent surface 152. The retention protuberances 160a, 160b are oriented on at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes 154b, 154d. Each of the at least two retention protuberances 160a, 160b are adapted to be received by and slidably engage the at least two semi-circular apertures 142a, 142b of the bottom housing plate member 132.

[0095] In accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 13-16, 21A, and 21B, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 also further includes a base retention plate member 162 removably coupled to the bottom housing plate member 132 via the detent plate member 146 to securely retain the bottom housing plate member 132 engaged with the top housing member 102. The detent plate member 146 is arranged between the bottom housing plate member 132 and the base retention plate member 162. The base retention plate member 162 comprises at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d and a base plate screw aperture 166. The base plate screw aperture 166 is formed through the base retention plate member 162. The base retention plate member 162 includes a first retention plate surface 168, shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, that is located opposite a second retention plate surface 170, shown in FIG. 14. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the base retention plate member 162 includes an indented retention plate ring 172 vertically and centrally rising from the second retention plate surface 170. The indented retention plate ring 172 defines an interior base retention canal 174 of substantially non-circular shape. In a preferred embodiment, the interior base retention canal 174 is substantially square in shape, as depicted in FIG. 14 and FIG. 21A, however, it may be envisioned that the interior base retention canal 174 may include any other non-circular shape, known in the art, complimentary to that of the non-circular base portion 138 of the bottom housing plate member 132. Moreover, an outer edge 173 of the indented retention plate ring 172 defines at least two radially inwardly extending apertures 175. Upon assembly of the base plate retention member 162, the second plate retention surface 170 is arranged facing the first detent surface 150 of the detent plate member 146 such that the interior base retention canal 174 is engaged with and retains the non-circular base portion 138 of the bottom housing plate member 132. Moreover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the protuberances 158 of the detent plate member 146 extend into two oppositely arranged apertures 175 of the indented retention plate ring 172. As illustrated in FIG. 16, a retention screw 176 is adapted to rotatively engage and be retained within the base plate screw aperture 166 and the housing screw aperture 140.

[0096] Turning to FIGS. 2, 4, 17-18, and 21A-21B, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 includes a retention ring 178. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the retention ring 178 is arranged surrounding the retention plate member 162. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 17-18, the retention ring 178 includes at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d extending radially inwardly towards a center of the retention ring 178. As shown in FIG. 4, the protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d slidably engage with the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d of the base retention plate member 162. When the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 is attached to an article of clothing 182, whereby the article of clothing 182 is located between the retention ring 178 and the base retention plate member 162, the result is the securing of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 to the article of clothing 182. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d are retained between the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d of the base retention plate member 162 and the detent plate member 146 in a vertical direction, thereby securing the apparatus 100 to the article of clothing 182, which is clamped between the retention ring 178 and the base retention plate member 162 to prevent removal without first removing the retention screw 176.

[0097] In one embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100 further includes a snap-on cosmetic disc member 184, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3, and 19-21B, the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184 is adapted for retention within the raised partial ring 128 and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity 112 of the top housing member 102, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. The snap-on cosmetic disc member 184 includes a top cosmetic surface 186, see FIG. 19, that is oriented opposite a bottom hidden surface 188, see FIG. 20. The snap-on cosmetic disc member 184 further forms a protruding cosmetic tab portion 190 and at least one protruding hidden tab portion 192, each extending oppositely and horizontally from the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184, shown in FIGS. 19-20 . Turning to FIG. 20, a cosmetic latch member 194 vertically extends from the bottom hidden surface 188 of the protruding cosmetic tab portion 190 of the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184. The protruding hidden tab portion 192 is adapted for insertion into and retention by the receiving indentation 130, shown in FIG. 6, of the top housing member 102. The cosmetic latch member 194 is adapted for removable retention within the at least one receiving aperture 126, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, of the top housing member 102 to secure the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184 with the top housing member 102 and within the raised partial ring 128 and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity 112. The top cosmetic surface 186 is adapted for displaying graphic designs and / or character imagery to enhance the aesthetics of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus 100.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 22-23, another embodiment of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100, in accordance with the present invention, is presented. As shown in FIGS. 22-23, a sectional view of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 depicting relative positioning of various components is shown. Accordingly, the second plate surface 136 of the bottom housing plate member 132 of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is arranged abutting the at least four vertical retention struts 124a, 124b, 124c, 124d with the at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b extending inside and retained by the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b of the top housing member 102, respectively. Moreover, the at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b are also arranged so as to be in contact with and engaged with the top housing latch members 120a, 120b of top housing member 102 such that the at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b are retained within the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b via the top housing latch members 120a, 120b.

[0099] Additionally, the base retention plate member 162 is engaged with the bottom housing plate member 132 such that the non-circular base portion 138 of the bottom housing plate member 132 extends inside the interior base retention canal 174 of the indented retention plate ring 172 of base plate member 162. Within the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 the indented retention plate ring 172 is arranged abutting the first plate surface 134 of the bottom housing plate member 132.

[0100] Also depicted, in reference to FIGS. 22-23, the detent plate member 146 is arranged surrounding the indented retention plate ring 172 such that the indented retention plate ring 172 is arranged inside the detent aperture 148 of the detent plate member 146, and in contact with the outer edge 173 of the indented retention plate ring 172 with L-shaped protuberance 158 arranged inside the at least two radially inwardly extending apertures 175 of the indented retention plate ring 172. However, although not shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, at least two retention protuberances 160a, 160b of the detent plate member 146, which are depicted in FIG. 11, are arranged inside the at least two semi-circular apertures 142a, 142b, engaging the detent plate member 146 with the bottom housing plate member 132.

[0101] Furthermore, the retention ring 178 is arranged between the base retention plate member 162 and the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102 in an axial direction of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100. Additionally, the retention ring 178 extends outwardly from the top housing member 102 and the base retention plate member 162 in a radial direction. As shown, the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d of the retention ring 178 are arranged between the second retention plate surface 170 and the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102, surrounding the detent plate member 146.

[0102] Referring now to FIG. 23, upon engagement of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 with an article of clothing 182, for example, the article of clothing 182 extends between the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d of the retention ring 178 and the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d of the base retention plate member 162. The article of clothing 182 also extends between an outer periphery of the detent plate member 146 and the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d, and between the one or more sidewalls 106 and the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d. To engage the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 with the article of clothing 182, the retention ring 178 is removed from the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100, and the article of clothing 182 is positioned so as to cover the first retention plate surface 168 of the base retention plate member 162 and a portion of the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102. Thereafter, the retention ring 178 is reengaged with the base plate retention member 162 with the article of clothing 182 extending inside and through the retention ring 178. The retention ring 178 is engaged such that the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d extends inside a gap between the one or more sidewalls 106 and the base retention plate member 162. Thereafter, the retention ring 178 is rotated to position the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d of the base retention plate member 162 so as to overlap with the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d of the retention ring 178, thereby, securing the article of clothing 182 therebetween and hence engaging the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 with the article of clothing 182.

[0103] In yet another embodiment, the detent plate member 146 may be omitted, in such a case, the article of clothing 182 extends through a gap defined between the outer edge 173 of the indented retention plate ring 172. Also, dimensions of the indented retention plate ring 172 and / or the at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes 180a, 180b, 180c, 180d of the retention ring 178 are selected such that the article of clothing 182 is secured therebetween.

[0104] In some embodiments, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is formed from a lightweight durable plastic such as ABS plastic. However, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 may be made of any other suitable material, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate (PC), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), nylon, lightweight metals, for example, aluminum, or any other suitable material known in the art.

[0105] In some other embodiments, the components of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 may be made using a suitable manufacturing process, such as, but not limited to, injection molding, 3D printing, CNC machining, or any other suitable manufacturing technique known in the art.

[0106] In yet another embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is adapted for retaining an Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc.

[0107] In even yet another embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is adapted to be attached to the article of clothing 182 worn by a child.

[0108] In another embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is adapted to be attached to the article of clothing 182 worn by an individual with severe cognitive disability.

[0109] In yet another embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 is adapted to be attached to a backpack or other fabric bag.

[0110] In another embodiment, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 further includes a cover sleeve adapted to wrap around the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100.

[0111] In yet another embodiment, the cover sleeve is composed of a silicone material.

[0112] In even yet another embodiment, the cover sleeve is optionally formed in a shape, such as, but not limited to, either a flower, star, square, triangle, heart, or any other suitable shape known in the art.

[0113] In some embodiments, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 may be in the shape of either a square, star, heart, triangle, trapezoid, or any other suitable shape known in the art.

[0114] In some embodiments, the retention screw 176 may be replaced by other fastening means, such as, but not limited, to a quarter-turn fastener, a series of snap-fit clips, a specialized locking key mechanism, or any other suitable mechanism that facilitates a removable engagement of the base retention plate member 162 and the bottom housing plate member 132.

[0115] In some embodiments, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 includes a Near Field Communication (NFC) technology tag or transponder. The NFC tag may be adhered to the inner top housing surface 108, embedded within the material of the top housing member 102, or integrated into the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184. The NFC tag is configured to store contact information or a unique identifier that allows attendants to immediately contact a parent or caregiver when a lost child or mentally incapacitated person wearing the device is found and the NFC tag is scanned by a mobile device.

[0116] Referring now to FIGS. 24-27 , a clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100′ is shown according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. The clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100′ is similar to the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100, which was previously disclosed herein, except the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100′, presently disclosed, includes a snap-on cosmetic disc member 184′ which is different from the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184 of the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100 in that the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184′ includes a cosmetic latch member 194′ that extends vertically downwardly from an outer edge of the protruding cosmetic tab portion 190 instead of extending from the bottom hidden surface 188 of the protruding cosmetic tab portion 190 as in the case of the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184, which was disclosed in relation to another embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the cosmetic latch member 194′ is adapted for removable retention within the interior sidewall aperture 116a of the top housing member 102 to secure the snap-on cosmetic disc member 184′ with the top housing member 102 and within both the raised partial ring 128 and the exterior shallow top housing cavity 112. Also, in such embodiments, at least one receiving aperture 126 formed through the inner top housing surface 108 of the top housing member 102 is omitted.

[0117] Additionally, in accordance with such embodiments, the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100′ includes an unlocking tool 200 for disassembling the clothing safe locking enclosure 100′ to remove and insert an electronic tracking device, such as, for example, an Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc. As shown in FIGS. 24, 26, and 27, the unlocking tool 200 includes a substantially U-shaped body 202 having a base 204 with a first vertically extending arm 206 and a second vertically extending arm 208. Furthermore, the unlocking tool 200 is arranged such that the base 204 is adapted to be arranged substantially parallel to the exterior top housing surface 114 of the top housing member 102, while the first vertically extending arm 206 and the second vertically extending arm 208 extend downwardly from the base 204 and are arranged substantially parallel to the one or more sidewalls 106 of the top housing member 102 when the unlocking tool 200 is engaged with the top housing member 102. Furthermore, the unlocking tool 200 includes a first engagement pin 210 and a second engagement pin 212, each adapted to removably engage with the top housing member 102. As shown, the first engagement pin 210 extends inwardly from the first vertically extending arm 206 and the second engagement pin 212 extends inwardly from the second vertically extending arm 208. As illustrated in FIGS. 24, 26, and 27, the first engagement pin 210 and the second engagement pin 212 are arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first vertically extending arm 206 and the second vertically extending arm 208 respectively, and each extends substantially parallel to the base 204 of the substantially U-shaped body 202.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 26, the first engagement pin 210 removably extends inside one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116b of the top housing member 102, the second engagement pin 212 removably extends inside the other one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a of the top housing member 102, and is adapted to disassemble the clothing safe tracking device locking enclosure 100'. Before inserting the first engagement pin 210 and the second engagement pin 212 inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b respectively, the cosmetic disc member 184′ is disengaged and removed from the top housing member 102, as shown in FIG. 26. Thereafter, the unlocking tool 200 is placed over the top housing member 102 from the front / top side such that the base 204 is arranged above the exterior top housing surface 114 of the top housing member 102 and the first vertically extending arm 206 and the second vertically extending arm 208 extend downwardly and parallel to the base 204, and the first engagement pin 210 and the second engagement pin 212 are inserted inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b. The first engagement pin 210 and the second engagement pin 212 when displaced inwardly by simultaneously compressing the first vertically extending arm 206 and the second vertically extending arm 208 towards each other facilitate disengagement / removal of the at least two bottom plate latches 144a, 144b from the at least two interior sidewall apertures 116a, 116b, resulting in disengagement of the bottom housing plate member 132 from the top housing member 102 and consequentially being able to easily and conveniently insert the electronic tracking device, such as, for example, an Apple AirTag® made by Apple Inc.

[0119] It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should only be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. All patents and publications discussed herein are incorporated in their entirety by reference thereto.

Claims

1. A tracking device locking enclosure apparatus for retaining an electronic tracking device and adapted to securely engage with an article of clothing, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus comprising:a top housing member including:an inner top housing surface and one or more sidewalls extending vertically from the inner top housing surface defining an interior top housing cavity to receive the electronic tracking device;at least two interior sidewall apertures formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls; anda plurality of retention struts arranged vertically from the inner top housing surface and adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device within the interior top housing cavity on the inner top housing surface;a bottom housing plate member removably engaged with and arranged covering the interior top housing cavity to securely retain the electronic tracking device inside the interior top housing cavity, the bottom housing plate member comprises:a non-circular base portion located centrally and rising from a first plate surface of the bottom housing plate member and a housing screw aperture is centrally formed through the non-circular base portion; andat least two bottom plate latches oppositely formed and vertically rising from a second plate surface of the bottom housing plate member, wherein the at least two bottom plate latches are removably engaged and retained inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures;a base retention plate member removably coupled to the bottom housing plate member to securely retain the bottom housing plate member with the top housing member, the base retention plate member comprises:an indented retention plate ring vertically and centrally rising from a retention plate surface of the base retention plate member and defining a non-circular shaped interior base retention canal, wherein the non-circular base portion of the bottom housing plate member is arranged inside the interior base retention canal; andat least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes extending radially outwardly from the indented plate ring and a base plate screw aperture arranged aligned with the housing screw aperture;a retention ring disposed surrounding the base plate retention member and including at least four interiorly protruding retention nodes slidably engaged with the at least four exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member, wherein the retention ring and the base retention plate member are adapted to retain the article of clothing therebetween, and to securely engage the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus with the article of clothing; anda retention screw extending through the base plate screw aperture and the housing screw aperture to securely engage the retention ring, the bottom housing plate member, and the base retention plate member.

2. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of retention struts includes at least two semi-circular retention struts rising from the interior top housing surface, wherein each of the semi-circular retention struts terminates at the at least two interior sidewall apertures.

3. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 2, wherein the plurality of retention struts further includes at least four vertical retention struts spaced equidistantly around and vertically rising from the at least two semi-circular retention struts.

4. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top housing member includes at least two top housing latch members extruding from the interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls of the top housing member, each respectively oriented above associated one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures.

5. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 4, wherein the at least two bottom plate latches are arranged engaged with the at least two housing latch members.

6. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe top housing member includes a raised partial ring vertically formed from and exterior top housing surface defining the exterior shallow top housing cavity opposite to the interior housing cavity, andthe tracking device locking enclosure apparatus further comprises a snap-on cosmetic disc member arranged within the raised partial ring and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity of the top housing member.

7. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 6, whereinthe top housing member defines at least one receiving aperture extending from the inner top housing surface to the exterior top housing surface and oriented laterally from one of the at least two interior sidewall apertures, andthe snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a vertically extending cosmetic latch member extending inside the at least one receiving aperture, securing the snap-on cosmetic disc member with the top housing member and within the exterior shallow top housing cavity.

8. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 7, whereinthe top housing member includes a receiving indentation formed into the exterior top housing surface and extending into the raised partial ring, wherein the receiving indentation is oriented opposite to the at least one receiving aperture, andthe snap-on cosmetic disc member includes a protruding cosmetic tab portion and at least one protruding hidden tab portion arranged opposite to each other, wherein the at least protruding tab portion extends inside the receiving indentation.

9. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 8, wherein the cosmetic latch member extends vertically downwardly from the protruding cosmetic tab portion.

10. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a detent plate member arranged between the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member and engaged with the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member.

11. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 10, wherein the detent plate member includes a centrally located detent aperture, and the indented retention plate ring extends through the detent aperture positioning the non-circular base portion inside the correspondingly shaped interior base retention canal of the indented retention plate ring.

12. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 11, whereinan outer edge of the indented retention plate ring defines at least two radially inwardly extending apertures, andthe detent plate member includes protuberances extending inside the detent aperture and arranged inside the at least two radially inwardly extending apertures to securely engage the detent plate member with the indented retention plate.

13. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 10, wherein the detent plate member includes four exteriorly protruding detent nodes arranged supported on the sidewall of the top housing member.

14. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 13, whereinthe bottom housing plate member includes two apertures oppositely formed around the non-circular base portion, andthe detent plate member comprises at least two vertically extending retention protuberances arranged on at least two of the at least four exteriorly protruding nodes and slidably extending inside the two apertures.

15. A tracking device locking enclosure apparatus for retaining an electronic tracking device and adapted to securely engage with an article of clothing, the tracking device locking enclosure apparatus comprising:a top housing member including one or more sidewalls extending vertically from an inner top housing surface, and at least two interior sidewall apertures formed oppositely through an interior sidewall surface of the one or more sidewalls;a bottom housing plate member removably engaged to the top housing member, the bottom housing plate member including at least two bottom plate latches oppositely formed and vertically rising from a second plate surface, wherein the at least two bottom plate latches are removably engaged and retained inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures;a base retention plate member coupled to the bottom housing plate member;a retention ring arranged surrounding the base retention plate member and adapted to clamp the article of clothing between the retention ring and the base retention plate member; andan unlocking tool including a substantially U-shaped body having a base with a first vertically extending arm and a second vertically extending arm;wherein the unlocking tool includes a first engagement pin extending inwardly from the first vertically extending arm and a second engagement pin extending inwardly from the second vertically extending arm;wherein the first engagement pin and the second engagement pin are adapted to removably extend inside the at least two interior sidewall apertures to displace the at least two bottom plate latches, thereby disengaging the bottom housing plate member from the top housing member.

16. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a detent plate member arranged between the bottom housing plate member and the base retention plate member.

17. The tracking device locking enclosure apparatus of claim 16, wherein the retention ring includes a plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes and the base retention plate member includes a plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes, and wherein the retention ring is secured within the apparatus by capturing the plurality of interiorly protruding retention nodes between the detent plate member and the plurality of exteriorly protruding retention nodes of the base retention plate member.

18. A locking enclosure apparatus for an electronic tracking device, the apparatus comprising:a top housing member comprising an exterior top housing surface, the exterior top housing surface defining an exterior shallow top housing cavity and a raised partial ring, wherein the top housing member further defines a receiving aperture and a receiving indentation;a bottom housing plate member removably engaged with the top housing member to form a secure interior cavity adapted to retain the electronic tracking device; anda snap-on cosmetic disc member removably coupled to the exterior top housing surface, the snap-on cosmetic disc member comprising:a protruding hidden tab portion configured for insertion into the receiving indentation of the top housing member; anda protruding cosmetic tab portion including a cosmetic latch member configured for removable retention within the receiving aperture of the top housing member.

19. The locking enclosure apparatus of claim 18, wherein the top housing member further comprises a plurality of retention struts arranged on an inner top housing surface within the secure interior cavity, the plurality of retention struts adapted to receive and retain the electronic tracking device.

20. The locking enclosure apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a decorative cover sleeve composed of a silicone material adapted to wrap around an exterior of the top housing member and the bottom housing plate member.

Images