cover

Abstract

A cover includes a housing (including a body and a wire positioning arrangement), fixing member, and sealing wire arrangement. The body covers a connection port preventing external access thereto independently of the housing, and includes a fixing bore having a bore axis and a removal path. The wire positioning arrangement, associated with the fixing bore, includes eyelets joined to the body and spaced apart in transverse arrangement re the removal path. In use, the fixing member fixedly engages the housing with respect to a connection port mounting structure via the fixing bore, covering the connection port, and is removable from the fixing bore via the removal path. In use, a sealing wire is positioned via the eyelets in an obstructing position with respect to the removal path, preventing passage of the fixing member therethrough. The sealing wire arrangement maintains in a tamper-proof manner the sealing wire in the obstructing position.

Description

[0001] COVER

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to covers for preventing access to external ports of computing devices.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Cyber attacks are becoming increasingly prevalent, often focussing on network organisations, computers, flight systems and military systems. External access threats have become one of the most serious threats to the stability of important and strategic systems - since these are a potential target for attack by enemies and opponents. In addition to means of protection for systems at the hardware and software levels, lockable covers for preventing physical access to circuits within external ports on computing devices are also known.

[0006] By way of non-limiting example, GB 1,227,200 discloses a terminal block for a circuit interrupter. The terminal block has a cover plate secured by a bolt, a length of sealing wire loosely extending through both the head of the bolt and an eye on the cover plate.

[0007] Also by way of non-limiting example, CN 10475289 discloses a lead seal protection device, comprising a socket and a plug, for a round cable connector. The lead seal protection device. A plug locking nut is arranged at the front end of the plug, a locking piece ring is added at the front end of the plug locking nut, the locking piece ring is arranged between the plug locking nut and the socket, a threaded hole for lead sealing a screw is formed in the locking piece ring, a protection ring sleeves the periphery of the plug locking nut, a hole for penetrating the lead seal screw is formed in the protection ring, and the locking piece ring and the protection ring are connected through the lead seal screw. Also by way of non-limiting example, DE 2712200 discloses a locking arrangement for hexagon socket head screws. The head is sunk into a counterbore of a component on tightening. A securing pin is pushed into a hole drilled through the screw head and terminating in the hollow socket. This hole passes also through an edge wall of the component and the securing pin connects screw head to this wall. The other end of the pin is bent over to contact the first inserted end projecting into the socket. The locking is completed by welding the pins ends together.

[0008] Also by way of non-limiting example, FR 2,701,780 discloses a device for protecting a box containing an electronic sensor and fixed to a vehicle. An open metal box covers the sensor and its connector, and which is fixed to the vehicle by tamper-proof means.

[0009] Also by way of non-limiting example, CN 111365347 discloses a holed flat-head bolt used for displacement detection between relatively moving components. The holed flat-head bolt comprises a screw, a nut located at one end of the screw and a flat head end located at the other end of the screw; two intersecting first through holes are formed in the nut in the radial direction, the two sides at the other end of the screw are symmetrically milled flatly to form the flat head end, and a second through hole is machined in the center of the plane on the side face of the flat head end; and in the displacement detection process of the relatively moving components, the flat head end is screwed inside from the end, away from a displacement sensor, on the moving component until the nut is tightly attached to the moving component, a stay wire of the displacement sensor penetrates through the second through hole and is fixed, and an anti-loosening iron wire penetrates through the first through holes to be tightened to a wire penetrating hole in the moving component and used for fixing the holed flat-head bolt and preventing the holed flat-head bolt from loosening.

[0010] Also by way of non-limiting example, CN 218068736 discloses an intelligent terminal data field extraction device which comprises an evidence obtaining host, a box body and a box cover, a first interlayer is arranged in the box body, a host groove is formed in the first interlayer, the evidence obtaining host is placed in the host groove, a limiting ring is arranged on the host groove, and the limiting ring covers the edge of a shell of the evidence obtaining host in a pressing mode. A mechanical locking device is arranged on the limiting ring, a second interlayer is arranged in the box cover, a terminal limiting groove is formed in the second interlayer, and a shielding layer covers the terminal limiting groove.

[0011] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 6,802,723 discloses a locking device for a connector that can be readily adapted to an existing electronics enclosure such as personal computer. The locking device has one or more sheathing members that form a hollow space for at least partially retaining a connector. The sheathing member has one or more openings connecting the hollow space inside the sheathing member with the space outside of the sheathing member. The openings are adapted to permit the connector to be connected to a mating connector and to provide for at least partial entry of a cable that is associated with the connector. Finally, the sheathing member has one or more projecting members for securing the connector locking device to the electronics enclosure.

[0012] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 4,750,898 discloses a clamp holding a sleeve over an installed connector preventing access to the connector for removal. The clamp is clamped to a cable with a screw having a head that breaks off after installation.

[0013] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 5,220,815 discloses lockable covers for covering either of two types of shield blocks to prevent access to circuits within either of two types of external ports on computing devices. Each such shield block covers the port contacts associated with these circuits, includes locking surfaces for holding the lockable cover in place, and is itself held in place by the attachment features provided on the external port for holding an external cable in place. One such shield block is held in place by a pair of screws extending into threaded holes in the external port, while the other such shield block is held in place by a pair of flexible wire bails rotatably mounted in the external port.

[0014] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 7,083,438 discloses a physical latching mechanism for preventing access to or tampering with an I / O port of a computer system. A display monitor cable of an unattended workstation being operated remotely is disconnected and latched to prevent re-connection and display of remote activity. The latch includes a first latch which locks the cable to the workstation system unit, and a second latch which blocks the open end of the cable. Each latch preferably a pair of L- shaped members which engage each other in a nested fashion, one being attached to a cable coupling while the other is connected to the system unit or is used to block the cable open end. The members are locked by engagement means at one end and a padlock at the other.

[0015] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 7,271,337 discloses a security block for securing connection ports of an electronic instrument to physically prevent any breach of data through a protected connection port, such as a USB port, by securing cables that may be plugged into the port by means of a locked cover. The cables are prevented from being removed and USB memory devices are prevented from being connected in their place. In a second aspect, a portion of the security block covers unused connection ports thereby preventing USB memory devices and other devices from being connected to unoccupied connection ports. The locking mechanism can be either a padlock, or a locking screw, or the like.

[0016] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 5,190,465 discloses cover assemblies, capable of being locked and unlocked by means of a key, configured to be placed over the connectors at each end of an external computer system cable. When these cover assemblies are locked in place, the cable cannot be unplugged from the connector ports of the system devices. When these cover assemblies are unlocked, they can be removed from the cable, and the cable can then be unplugged from the connector ports. A first type of cover assembly is designed to operate with a connector which is fastened in place in its plugged position by means of a pair of screws, while a second type of cover assembly is designed to operate with a connector which is fastened in placed by means of a pair of rotatable wire bails. These cover assemblies may also be used to prevent access to connector ports to which cables are not attached by locking in place terminators commonly used on such ports, or by locking in place shells configured for this purpose, if such terminators are otherwise not required.

[0017] Also by way of non-limiting example, WO 96 / 32762 discloses a safety device for electronic apparatuses, such as computers, fax machines or the like, having a plug-in part with means for fastening to an input / output, in particular a data transmission output of the electronic apparatus. A top with a closing element may be set on the plug-in part. The closing element has a lock for locking the top on the plug-in part and / or the electronic apparatus when the top is set on the plug-in part. The top is designed in such a way that when it is set on the plug-in part it covers the fastening means of the plug-in part and makes them inaccessible from the outside, thus making it impossible for unauthorized persons to remove the plug-in part when the top is set on the electronic apparatus and locked.

[0018] Also by way of non-limiting example, US 4,669,281 discloses an apparatus which protects the cabling system on a computer. The apparatus comprises a first structure and a locking cover. The first structure is attached to a first cable terminal and prevents other terminals from being electro / mechanically connected to the first cable terminal. The locking cover then prevents the first structure from being removed from the first cable terminal. In the preferred embodiment the first structure is attached to the first cable terminal by one or more screws and the locking cover prevents access to the screw(s).

[0019] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0020] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a tamper-proof cover for preventing external access, in particular to prevent unauthorized external access, to at least one connection port, the tamper-proof cover comprising a housing, at least one fixing member, and at least one sealing wire arrangement: the housing comprising: a body configured for covering (in particular for covering in a tamper proof manner) the at least one connection port in a manner that prevents external access with respect to the at least one connection port independently of the housing, the body comprising at least one fixing bore having a respective bore axis, and a respective removal path associated with each said fixing bore; a wire positioning arrangement associated with the at least one fixing bore, the wire positioning arrangement comprising at least two eyelets fixedly joined to the body and spaced apart in transverse arrangement with respect to each respective said removal path; the at least one fixing member being configured, in use, to fixedly engage the housing with respect to a mounting structure associated with the at least one connection port via a respective said fixing bore, to thereby fixedly cover the at least one connection port, the at least one fixing member being at least selectively removable from the respective fixing bore via the respective said removal path; the at least one sealing wire arrangement comprising at least one sealing wire configured, in use, to be positioned via the at least two eyelets in an obstructing position with respect to the removal path, to thereby prevent passage of the respective fixing member through the removal path; and wherein the sealing wire arrangement is configured to maintain in a tamper-proof manner the at least one sealing wire in said obstructing position with respect to the housing.

[0021] For example, the housing comprises at least one cavity configured to face and enclose the at least one connection port when fixedly engaged with the respective said mounting structure.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the housing comprises a first housing portion and a second housing portion arranged to be connected together in a closed configuration at least when fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port. For example, each said at least one fixing bore comprises a respective first bore portion provided in the first housing portion, and a second bore portion provided in the second housing portion; wherein in the closed configuration the first bore portion and the second bore portion are mutually aligned so as to permit passage of the respective fixing member therethrough and thereby enable the housing to be fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port. For example, each of the first housing portion and the second housing portion comprises at least one respective flange, each at least one flange comprising a borehole defining the respective first bore portion or the respective second bore portion of the respective at least one fixing bore; wherein, in the closed configuration, the at least one flange of the first housing portion is configured to align with the at least one flange of the second housing portion so that the respective boreholes of each fixing bore are aligned coaxially to permit passage of the respective fixing member therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the at least two eyelets are arranged with respect to the body such that at least one said eyelet is located on the first housing portion and at least one other said eyelet is located on the second housing portion.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, for example, in said closed configuration, the housing defines a fixing channel extending from each respective said fixing bores along the bore axis in a direction away from a port-facing surface of the housing, each said fixing channel being arranged to receive a respective said fixing member therethrough tom thereby enable the housing to be fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port, each said fixing channel comprising a respective circumferential wall comprising at least two said eyelets formed therein. For example, each said fixing channel comprises two respective said eyelets diametrically disposed with respect to the fixing channel. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said removal path is at least partially located within a respective said fixing channel.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first housing portion and the second housing portion are arranged to be brought together in the closed configuration from an open configuration generally transversely with respect to the at least one bore axis.

[0025] In at least one example, in the open configuration the first housing portion and the second housing portion are unattached with respect to one another.

[0026] In at least one other example, the first housing portion and second housing portion are pivotably connected to one another at respective first ends thereof with respect to a pivot axis, and wherein respective second ends thereof each comprise a portion of each respective said fixing bore; wherein the first housing portion and second housing portion are pivotable about the pivot axis between the open position and the closed position; wherein in the closed configuration the portions of the at least one fixing bore are aligned to thereby permit passage of the respective said fixing member therethrough. For example, the first housing portion and the second housing portion are pivotally rotated about the hingedly connected respective said first ends so as to bring the respective said second ends together in the closed configuration. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the pivot axis is nominally parallel with respect to at least one said bore axis. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the body is configured in the closed configuration to at least partially enclose at least a connector portion of at least one connector when the connector is connected to the at least one connection port, and the housing is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port. For example, the housing comprises at least one slot, configured to permit passage of a connector cable of the at least one connector therethrough.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the housing comprises at least one slot, configured to permit passage of a connector cable of the at least one connector therethrough, wherein each said slot is defined by a first slot part provided in the first housing portion and a second slot part provided in the second housing portion.

[0028] Alternatively, for example, said housing is configured for preventing a connector portion or a connector cable of at least one connector to pass through the body when the housing is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said sealing wire arrangement comprises at least one respective sealing wire having a respective threading end and a respective opposite end, and a respective non-reusable fixing configured for non- reversibly bonding the respective threading end and the respective opposite end together in a tamper-proof manner. For example, each said non-reusable fixing configured for being affixed with respect to respective threading end and to the respective opposite end in a manner such that removal of at least one of the threading end and the opposite end with respect to the non-reusable fixing results in the non-reusable fixing being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement has been tampered with. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said sealing arrangement is configured to provide unique or semi-unique tamper proof characteristics. For example, said tamper proof characteristics include customizing each said sealing wire arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said tamper proof characteristics include an observable or otherwise visible or discernable unique physical indication on the non- reusable fixing. For example, said unique physical indication includes indicia comprising an identifier code. For example, said identifier code includes at least one of: a mark, a code number, an alphanumeric code, a bar code, coded text, special logos, a writing surface that can be signed by an installer or a laser surface authentication (LSA). Additionally or alternatively, for example, said tamper proof characteristics include a technologically based identification provided in the non-reusable fixing. For example, said technologically based identification includes any one of: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) label; a Bluetooth identification device; a biometric fingerprint reader, Active Fiber Optic seal, Smart cards, and so on.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the mounting structure is integrally provided with the connection port.

[0031] Alternatively, for example, the connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and wherein the mounting structure is externally provided, the mounting structure comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port. For example, the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB.

[0032] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a tamper-proof cover for enclosing, in particular for securely enclosing, at least one connection port in a manner preventing external access to the at least one connection port, the tamper-proof cover comprising a housing, at least one fixing member, and at least one sealing wire arrangement: the housing comprising: a body configured for covering (in particular for covering in a tamper proof manner) the at least one connection port in a manner that prevents external access with respect to the at least one connection port, the body comprising at least one fixing bore; and a wire positioning arrangement associated with the at least one fixing bore, the wire positioning arrangement comprising at least one housing through- bore configured for receipt of a sealing wire, said housing through-bore being accessible for receiving said sealing wire when the cover is in an engaged position covering the connection port; the at least one fixing member configured, in use, to fixedly engage the housing with respect to a mounting structure of the at least one connection port via a respective bore, to thereby cover the at least one connection port, wherein the at least one fixing member comprises a fixing member through-bore having ends which are accessible externally of the housing at least when the fixing member is in a configuration fixedly engaging the housing with the connection port; and the at least one sealing wire arrangement comprising at least one said sealing wire configured, in use, to be positioned via a respective said housing through- bore and a respective said fixing member through-bore, to thereby obstruct removal of said fixing member.

[0033] For example, the housing comprises at least one cavity configured to face and enclose the at least one connection port when fixedly engaged with the respective mounting structure.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the tamper-proof cover comprises at least two said fixing members, and wherein the housing comprises at least two flanges on opposite sides of the housing, each said flange comprising a respective said fixing bore passing therethrough configured to receive a respective said fixing member.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the at least one fixing member comprises a head-portion, and wherein the respective said fixing member through-bore is provided in the respective said head portion.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said sealing wire arrangement comprises at least one respective sealing wire having a respective threading end and a respective opposite end, and a respective non-reusable fixing configured for non- reversibly bonding the respective threading end and the respective opposite end together in a tamper-proof manner. For example, each said non-reusable fixing configured for being affixed with respect to respective threading end and to the respective opposite end in a manner such that removal of at least one of the threading end and the opposite end with respect to the non-reusable fixing results in the non-reusable fixing being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement has been tampered with. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said sealing arrangement is configured to provide unique or semi-unique tamper proof characteristics. For example, said tamperproof characteristics include customizing each said sealing wire arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said tamper proof characteristics include an observable or otherwise visible or discernable unique physical indication on the non- reusable fixing. For example, said unique physical indication includes indicia comprising an identifier code. For example, said identifier code includes at least one of: a mark, a code number, an alphanumeric code, a bar code, coded text, special logos, a writing surface that can be signed by an installer, or a laser surface authentication (LSA). Additionally or alternatively, for example, said tamper proof characteristics include a technologically based identification provided in the non-reusable fixing. For example, said technologically based identification includes any one of: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) label; a Bluetooth identification device; a biometric fingerprint reader, Active Fiber Optic seal, Smart cards, and so on.

[0037] According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a connection port configured to receive an electrical connector, the connection port comprising a mounting structure configured to be engaged by at least one respective fixing member of a tamper-proof cover as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter or as defined herein regarding the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0038] A feature of at least one example of the presently disclosed subject matter is that a physical level of protection can be provided for computing devices which allows identification and prevention of unauthorised physical access with respect to external ports on computing devices, for example connection ports thereof, using a tamper proof arrangement (also referred to herein interchangeably as tamper evident arrangement).

[0039] Another feature of at least one example of the presently disclosed subject matter is that a tamper proof arrangement can be provided for a connection port or the like of computing device or the like in a relatively easy and low-cost manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Fig. l shows a top isometric exploded view of a cover of a first example according to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0042] Fig. 2 shows an example of a connection port for use with the cover example of Fig. 1;

[0043] Fig. 3 shows a top isometric exploded view of the cover example of Fig. 1, with the housing in an open configuration;

[0044] Fig. 4 shows a top isometric exploded view of the cover example of Fig. 1, with the housing in an open configuration and further provided with a panel, connection port and a connector;

[0045] Fig. 5 shows an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1;

[0046] Fig. 6 shows an alternative variation of the connection port example of Fig. 2;

[0047] Fig. 7 shows a further alternative example of a connection port for use with a cover according to the first example of the present disclosure;

[0048] Fig. 8 shows a top isometric view of a second example of a cover according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0049] Fig. 9 shows a further alternative example of a connection port for use with the second cover example of Fig. 8;

[0050] Fig. 10 shows a top isometric exploded view of the cover example of Fig. 8, with the housing in an open configuration and further provided with the connection port example of Fig. 9, and a connector;

[0051] Fig. 11 shows a top isometric view of a first housing portion of the second cover example of Fig. 8; Fig. 12 shows a bottom isometric view of a second housing portion of the second cover of Fig. 8;

[0052] Fig. 13 shows a top front isometric exploded view of a first example of a cover according to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0053] Fig. 14 shows a top rear isometric view of the first cover example of Fig. 13;

[0054] Fig. 15 shows a top rear isometric view of a second example of a cover according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0055] Fig. 16 shows a top front isometric view of the second cover example of Fig. 15;

[0056] Fig. 17 shows a top front isometric view of an alternative variation of the cover example of Fig. 15; and

[0057] Fig. 18 shows a top rear isometric view of the cover example of Fig. 17.

[0058] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Throughout the description and accompanying figures, like features are denoted by like reference signs.

[0060] According to aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a tamper-proof cover for preventing external access to at least one connection port on a computing device or the like, in an anti-tamper manner, or tamperproof manner, or tamper evident manner, or tamper prevention manner, as will be described below in more detail.

[0061] By "tamper-proof" or "tamper evident" or "anti-tamper" or "tamper prevention" (which terms are used interchangeably herein), is meant herein that that the cover is capable of visibly displaying evidence in the event that the cover has been tampered with, for example if cover has been physically changed, opened, removed, or damaged.

[0062] By "tamperless manner" is meant herein to be in a manner that does not generate visible evidence that the cover has been tampered with, for example if cover has been physically changed, opened, removed, or damaged. By "connection port" (also interchangeably referred to herein as an "I / O port", or as an "input-outport port"), is meant herein to refer to the physical point of interface for a data transfer and / or electronic and / or electrical connection arrangement on a computing device. For example but without limitation, such connection port can include any one of USB types A, B, C, RJ45, D-SUB, HDMI, DVI, and so on. Such a connection port can additionally or alternatively include an on-board type connection port, in which for example external cables are routed directly into the computing device via a cable entry opening, without any intervening connector plug or the like.

[0063] The term "computing device" refers to any physical device or hardware that includes a microprocessor or the like, and / or that is configured for being in electrical communication and / or in electronic communication and / or in digital communication with a microprocessor or the like, and for example can include, inter alia, any one of: a computer, a supercomputer, a data center, a data exchanger, a data converter, a server, a telecom device including for example telecom exchange box or telecommunication system units, an electrical box, an electronic box, an avionics box, a cable to cable arrangement that is configured for being in electrical and / or electronic and / or digital communication with a microprocessor or the like, optical communication box in which optical fibers are insertable into the optical box, PCB's, other computer hardware, electronic and / or avionics and / or electric panel, or a data connector at the end of a cable.

[0064] Referring to Figs. 1, 3, and Fig. 4, a first example of a cover, according to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, is generally designated 100, and comprises a housing 110, a fixing member 120, and a sealing wire arrangement 130.

[0065] Referring to Fig. 2, a first example of a connection port, generally designated 200, is suitable for use with at least the first example of the cover 100, according to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, such that in use the connection port 200 can be securely covered in a tamper-proof manner with cover 100. The connection port 200 can be provided, by way of non-limiting example, on a computer device (not shown) or connected thereto via cable 201.

[0066] The connection port 200 comprises a connector portion 210, at a connection end 202 of the connection port 200. The connection port 200 can be a male type or female type connector portion, for example, and capable of interfacing with a complementary connector portion of a connector 330 (Fig. 4) in connection direction D, and which can be selectively connected or disconnected from the connector portion 210.

[0067] The connection port 200 comprises a mounting structure 220. In at least this example, the mounting structure 220 comprises a recess 222 that houses the connector portion 210 at least partially within the recess 222. At the connection end 202 of the connection port, two flanges 224 project transversely from side surfaces 203 of the connection port. The flanges 224 are provided with respective bores 225, each having a respective axis A parallel to a connection direction D of the connection port 200. Each of the bores 225 is provided with an internal screw thread 226 within the bore 225.

[0068] Referring again to Fig. 3, in at least this example, the housing 110 comprises a first housing portion 110a and a second housing portion 110b. Together, the first and second housing portions 110a, 110b provide a body Illa, 111b, configured for covering a connection port, such as for example the connection port 200 shown in Fig. 2, in a tamper proof manner, i.e., that prevents external access with respect to the connection port 200 in a tamperless manner, as will be described in more detail below.

[0069] In at least this example, the first housing portion 110a and the second housing portion 110b are arranged to be brought together in a closed configuration from an open configuration, in a direction generally transversely with respect to the bore axis A.

[0070] The body Illa, 111b, comprises a fixing bore 112a having two fixing bore portions 112b, each having a respective bore axis B which becomes a common bore axis CB (see Fig. 1) when the two fixing bore portions 112b are brought together. Each of the two fixing bore portions 112b is provided in a respective one of the first housing portion 110a or the second housing portion 110b.

[0071] The fixing member 120 is configured for transitioning between a fixedly engaged configuration with respect to the connection port 200 via the fixing bore 112a, to a disengaged configuration wherein the fixing member 120 is no longer engaged with the connection port 200, having moved away from the connection port in a direction parallel to the connection direction D. A removal path R for the fixing member 120 is associated with the fixing bore 112a. By removal path, what is meant is the volume of space, for example in the form of a cylinder, through which the fixing member must move, as the fixing member 120 transitions from the fixedly engaged configuration to the disengaged configuration in a direction parallel to the connection direction D and away from the connection port 200.

[0072] The housing 110 comprises a wire positioning arrangement 116 associated with the fixing bore 112a. In at least this example the wire positioning arrangement comprises two eyelets 116a, 116b, and a housing opening 116c fixedly joined to the body Illa, 111b. In this example, the eyelet 116a is spaced apart from eyelet 116b and housing opening 116c in transverse arrangement with respect to the removal path R, i.e. across the removal path. Each of the eyelets 116a, 116b, and housing opening 116c includes a through-bore through a respective wall portion of the body Illa, 111b, as will be described in more detail below.

[0073] Each of the first and second housing portions 110a, 110b comprises a respective recess or cavity portion 113a, 113b comprising a respective open end 114a, 114b configured to face towards the connection port 200 in use, respective side walls 115a, 115b, and respective opposite ends 115c, 115d configured to be distal from the connection port 200 in use.

[0074] In at least this example, the housing comprises at least one slot, configured to permit passage of a connector cable of the at least one connector therethrough. The slot is defined by a first slot part provided in the first housing portion and a second slot part provided in the second housing portion.

[0075] In this example, the opposite ends 115c, 115d each comprises a respective cut-out portion 117a, 117b (also referred to herein as respective slot parts) shaped to together provide the slot 117 for surrounding a cable, wire or the like in a close fit or loosely, in particular a cable 340 associated with the connector 330 (Fig. 4). The cavity portions 113a, 113b, together form a cavity 113 which is capable of surrounding and accommodating an end of the connector 330 that is configured to be connected to the connection port 200. The cavity 113 is further configured to face and enclose the connection port 200 when fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the connection port 200. In at least the example of Fig. 3, the first housing portion 110a and second housing portion 110b are pivotable via a hinge arrangement 118 about a pivot axis PA thereof, between a respective open position and a respective closed position.

[0076] In at least this example the pivot axis PA is nominally parallel with respect to the bore axis B.

[0077] The first housing portion 110a and second housing portion 110b have respective first lateral ends hingedly connected to one another by the hinge arrangement 118, and second lateral ends comprising the respective fixing bore portions 112b.

[0078] The second lateral end of the first housing portion 110a, comprises a hollow cylindrical channel 119a, also referred to herein as a fixing channel, external to the cavity portion 113a and extending along the respective bore axis B in a direction away from the end of the housing 110 that is configured to face the connection port 200. The cylindrical channel 119a comprises cylindrical side walls 119b, a proximal end 119c in the form of a flange, provided with the fixing bore portion 112b passing therethrough, and an opposite and open distal end 119d. The proximal end 119c is provided spaced from the end of the housing 110 configured to face the connection port by a gap spacing g. The two eyelets 116a, 116b pass through the cylindrical side wall 119b, and are spaced apart generally diametrically with respect to the cylindrical side wall 119b.

[0079] The second end of the second housing portion 110b, comprises a cylindrical flange 119e external to the cavity portion 113b and having a depth d extending along the respective bore axis B in a direction away from the end of the housing 110 configured to face the connection port 200. The cylindrical flange 119e is provided with the fixing bore portion 112b passing therethrough. The depth d of the cylindrical flange 119e is nominally equal to, or less than, the gap spacing g, such that the cylindrical flange 119e is configured to be received in the space adjacent the closed end 119c of the cylindrical channel 119a, so that the fixing bore portions 112b are mutually aligned coaxially along the common bore axis CB. A semi-cylindrical recess 119f, or open channel, extends from the cylindrical flange 119e further along the respective bore axis B in a direction away from the end of the housing 110 configured to face the connection port 200. The semi-cylindrical recess 119f is configured to receive therein a semi-cylindrical protruding portion of the cylindrical channel 119a. The semi-cylindrical recess 119f comprises a wall through which passes opening 116c. The housing opening 116c is configured to align with eyelet 116b when the semi-cylindrical protruding portion of the cylindrical channel 119a is received within the semi-cylindrical recess 119f.

[0080] Referring again to Figs. 1 and 3, the fixing member 120 in at least this example is in the form of a screw arranged to be inserted and removed via the fixing channel 119a, with the screw head 122 remaining inside the fixing channel 119a, and the externally threaded screw shaft 124 passing through both fixing bore portions 112b and engaging the complementary internal screw thread provided in a bore 230 of the mounting structure of the connection port (see for example Fig. 2).

[0081] The fixing member 120 is removable from the fixing bore 112a via the removal path R. The fixing member 120 is also insertable into the fixing bore 112a via the removal path R. The removal path R in at least this example is a cylindrical volume having a diameter not less than the diameter of the screw head 122, and having a length equal to the depth of engagement of the screw shaft 124 with the mounting structure of the connection port. By depth of engagement, is meant the rearward distance away from the connection port 200 through which the screw would have to translate in order to disengage from the connection port and thus allow for the removal of the cover 100 from the connection port. As disclosed above, in this example, the eyelet 116a is spaced apart from eyelet 116b and housing opening 116c in transverse arrangement with respect to the removal path R, i.e. across the removal path R.

[0082] Referring again to Fig. 1, the at least one sealing wire arrangement 130 comprises a sealing wire 132 having a threading end 134, opposite end 136, and a non-reusable fixing 138.

[0083] The threading end 134 is configured to be passed through eyelets 116a, 116b and housing opening 116c (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to the opposite end 136 of the sealing wire 132 using a non-reusable fixing 138. The non-reusable fixing 138 can include for example, a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. In particular, the non-reusable fixing 138 is characterized in that it is fixed with respect to threading end 134 and to the opposite end 136 in a manner such that removal of one or both of the threading end 134 and the opposite end 136 from the non-reusable fixing 138 is expected to result in the non-reusable fixing 138 being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement 130 has been tampered with.

[0084] For example each sealing arrangement can be configured to provide a unique or semi-unique tamper proof characteristics, in which it is impossible, impractical, difficult or inconvenient for a non-authorized user to replace an existing installed sealing wire arrangement, especially in the field, with an identical sealing wire arrangement, with the motive to conceal tampering. Such uniqueness or semi-uniqueness can be achieved in a number of ways, for example as known in the art, and this can include customizing each sealing wire arrangement.

[0085] For example, such customizing can include providing a unique physical indication on the non-reusable fixing, for example indicia comprising an identifier code. Such an identifier code can include, for example, a mark, a code number, an alphanumeric code, a bar code, coded text, special logos, a writing surface that can be signed by the installer, a laser surface authentication (LSA), and so on.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, for example, such customizing can include providing the non-reusable fixing with a technologically based identification, for example Radio-frequency identification (RFID) label, a Bluetooth identification device, a biometric fingerprint reader, Active Fiber Optic seal, smart cards, and so on. Such technological based identifications can in at least some case, provide a capability for receiving at a central control for example, a remote indication transmission that tampering is taking place at a particular computing device (for example where there is a high tampering risk and / or where the computing device is an extremely sensitive unit).

[0087] In fact such customizing can include providing any other characteristics that can create a uniqueness and differentiation for the sealing arrangement, in particular for the respective non-reusable fixing, and thus provide an additional layer of security for the computing device, that can allow for quick and easy identification of any tamper. In at least some examples, the sealing wire 132 is made from a suitable metal, for example steel.

[0088] Some examples of such sealing wire arrangements can include the metal safety locks provided by Shirdan (Israel), such as for example any one of the steel cable closure tightener products thereof.

[0089] The eyelets 116a, 116b and housing opening 116c position the sealing wire 132 in an obstructing position with respect to the removal path R, to thereby prevent passage of the screw 120 through the removal path R and thus preventing disengagement of the cover 100 from the connection port. The sealing wire 132 thus has a diameter small enough to pass through the eyelets 116a, 116b and housing opening 116c, and at the same time large enough to obstruct and prevent passage of the screw 120 through the removal path R.

[0090] By "obstructing position" is meant that the presence (including for example one or more of position, size, shape, and so on) of the sealing wire 132 in the removal path R is such that the screw 120 cannot be navigated out of the removal path R. In other words, the sealing wire 132 obstructs the removal path R without the need for the wire 132 to touch the screw 120 or to be in an intersecting relationship with any part of the screw 120.

[0091] Once the ends 134, 136 of the sealing wire 132 have been fixed together using the non-reusable fixing 138, the at least one sealing wire 132 is maintained in said obstructing position with respect to the removal path R, in a tamper-proof manner. This is clearly evident, since any external access to the connection port 200 would ultimately necessitate removing the sealing wire arrangement 130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the sealing wire 132 and / or damaging the non-reusable fixing 138 to remove at least one of the ends 134, 136 of the sealing wire 132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 132 from the housing 110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 100 from the connection port 200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 100, for example evident as damage to the sealing wire arrangement 130 and / or via damage to the housing 110. Referring again to Fig. 4, and also to Fig. 2, in at least some applications of this example, a panel 300 can be provided between the cover 110 and the connection port 200. For example, such a panel 300 can be a front panel or a back panel of computer hardware.

[0092] In at least this example, the panel 300 comprises a port-facing surface 302 and a cover-facing surface 304, spaced from one another in a through-thickness direction of the panel that is parallel to the connection direction D of the connection port 200.

[0093] In at least this example, the panel 300 is provided with two through-bores (not shown), arranged to receive two fixing members 310 passing therethrough to mount the panel to the respective side-bores (shown for example in Fig. 2 as bores 225) in the connection port mounting structure 220 of the connection port 200. A further through- bore 320 is provided in the panel, arranged to align coaxially with the bore 230 provided in the mounting structure 220 of the connection port 200. The panel further comprises a slot therethrough of size and shape to allow for access to the connector portion of the connection port 200.

[0094] In use, connector 330 is provided for coupling with the connection port 200. The connector 330 comprises cable 340 and a head-portion 350 that includes a connector portion 352. The connector portion 352 is configured for interfacing with the connector portion 210 of the connection port 200 by coupling therewith. Thus, in use, the connector 330 is connected to the connection port 200, such that the connector portions thereof 352, 210 interface with one another to enable any one of electrical communication therebetween, electronic communication therebetween, and data transfer communication therebetween.

[0095] Once the connector 330 is coupled with the connection port 200, the cover 100 can be installed with respect to the connector 330 and with respect to the connection port 200 in a tamper-proof manner.

[0096] For this purpose, the two housing portions 110a, 110b, which as disclosed herein are connected to one another by the hinge arrangement 118 at the first ends thereof, are initially placed in an open configuration in which the second ends thereof are spaced apart from one another, for example as illustrated in Fig. 3. In this manner, the housing 110 is positioned around the head portion 350 and a part of the cable 340 for example as illustrated in Fig. 4. Next, the first housing portion 110a and the second housing portion 110b are pivotally rotated about the hinge arrangement 118 so as to bring the respective second ends into a closed configuration, to thereby enclose the head portion 350 and the aforementioned part of the cable 340.

[0097] In the closed configuration, the housing 110 is suitable for engaging with the mounting structure of the connection port 200.

[0098] In the closed configuration, the portions of the fixing bore 112b are mutually aligned coaxially, the head portion 350 of the connector 330 is enclosed within the cavity provided by cavity portions 113a, 113b and the cable 340 passes through the cut-out portions 117a, 117b provided in the ends 115c, 115d of the body of the housing portions.

[0099] In the closed configuration, the cable 340 is surround by the cut-out portions 117a, 117b in a close-fitting manner or in a loose manner, but such as to prevent undesired external access to the connection port via the cut-out portions 117a, 117b. For example, the cable opening defined by the cut-out portions 117a, 117b is of a size and shape such as to allow passage of the cable 340 therethrough, but not to allow passage of the head portion 350 therethrough, except possibly in a destructive manner that thereby shows evidence of tampering.

[0100] The fixing member 120 is then provided via the fixing channel 119a, the shaft 124 of the fixing member 120 passing first through the respective bore portions 112b, then subsequently the through-bore 320 in the panel 300, and finally engaging with the internal screw arrangement provided in the bore 230 of the mounting structure 220 of the connection port 200.

[0101] Once the fixing member 120 is engaged with respect to the mounting structure 220 via the housing 110, the threading end 134 of the sealing wire 132 is passed through eyelets 116a, 116b and housing opening 116c (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to the opposite end 136 of the sealing wire 132 using a non-reusable fixing 138, such as a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. The eyelets 116a, 116b and housing opening 116c position the sealing wire 132 in an obstructing position with respect to the removal path R, distally with respect to the screw head 122, to thereby prevent passage of the screw 120 through the removal path R and thus preventing disengagement of the cover 100 from the connection port 200. As the fixing 138 is non-reusable, any access to the connection port would ultimately necessitate removing the sealing wire arrangement 130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the sealing wire 132 or damaging the non-reusable fixing 138 to remove at least one of the ends 134, 136 of the sealing wire 132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 132 from the housing 110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 100 from the connection port 200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangement 130 and / or via damage to the housing 110.

[0102] Thus, the sealing wire 132 is maintained in said obstructing position with respect to the removal path R, in a tamper-proof manner.

[0103] With reference to Fig. 5, an alternative arrangement for two adjacent connection ports 200 is shown, using two cover-arrangement 100. In the example of Fig. 5, each connection port 200 is provided with a respective cover 100 comprising a respective housing 110, a respective fixing member (not shown) and a respective sealing wire arrangement 130, in which the respective cover 100 is installed with respect to the respective connection port 200 in a tamper proof manner, as described above with respect to Figs. 1 to 4, mutatis mutandis.

[0104] It is to be noted that the structure of the respective connection port can vary between different variations of the above examples. For example, and referring to Fig. 6, the respective connection port 200' can be in the form of a double-port arrangement, essentially including two discrete connection ports that are connected with one another in adjacent relationship, in a single unit. Each of the two discrete connection ports has a respective connector portion 210a, 210b and share a single mounting structure 220'. The mounting structure 220' includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the mounting structure 220 shown in Fig. 2, mutatis mutandis, for example, having bores 225' in flanges 224', but with the main difference being that there are two separate bores 230a, 230b respectively, each being configured for connection to one or the other of two discrete covers 100 (not shown), to enable covering of each of the connector portions 210a, 210b of the two connection ports, in a similar manner to that of the example of Fig. 5, mutatis mutandis. In the examples of Figs. 1 to 6, the respective mounting structure is provided integrally with the respective connection port.

[0105] Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a connection port 200", which is similar to the connection port 200 of the example of Figs. 1 to 4, mutatis mutandis, but in which connection port 200" lacks its own mounting structure, i.e., lacks an integrally provided mounting structure. For example, such a connection port 200" can be provided in for example a PCB.

[0106] At least some types of PCB's have a connection port in the form of a standardized I / O connector, and are often available as an off-the-shelf item. Such PCB's on board connections often lack a fixing bore via which for the connection port can be covered and sealed off.

[0107] Conventionally, ruggedized PCB connectors have a flange for mounting directly to a PCB. Direct mounting to the board is understood to protect the PC tail contact terminations and to ensure reliability.

[0108] However, non-ruggedized PCB connectors lack a physical structure with respect to which the connection port can be physically covered, and thus effectively sealed. According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided such a physical structure, in the form of a casing, flange, cage or the like,

[0109] According to the example of Fig. 7, such a physical structure in the form of an auxiliary mounting structure 220" can be provided to surround the respective connector portion 210" of such a connection port 200", wherein in this example the connection port 200" is provided on a PCB board 400. The auxiliary mounting structure 220" comprising a casing 260" that is configured for being mounted to the PCB board 400 in a manner accommodating the connection port 200" while exposing the connector portion 210" at an open side 269" to enable a connector to be connected to the connector portion 210".

[0110] For example, the casing 260" can be formed as a thin sheet metal structure or as a machined metal structure, or as a molded plastic structure, and so on.

[0111] In at least this example, the casing 260" comprises three side walls 262" in the form of a "U", peripherally joined to a top wall 264". The casing 260" is suitable connected to the PCB board 400, for example via pins 265" that are insertable and fixable with respect to the PCB board 400, for example via soldering or via bay screws. The casing 260", when fixed to the PCB board 400, prevents external access to the connection port 200", in particular prevents access to the connector portion 210", except via the open side 269". The mounting structure 220" comprises a bore 230" attached to the casing 260". The bore 230" includes an internal screw thread arrangement configured to receive the respective fixing member 120 of the cover 100. In this example a panel can optionally be provided between the cover 100 and the connection port 200", the panel having a bore through which the fixing member 120 passes. The side-bores for connecting the panel to the mounting structure as in Figs. 2 and 6 are not required in the example of Fig. 7.

[0112] According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter another example of the cover includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the first example of the cover, mutatis mutandis, with the difference that the housing 110 is provided with closed ends 115c, 115d, i.e. without the cut-out portions 117a, 117b, and the cover 100 can be used to prevent undesired external access to an empty connection port 200, i.e. a connection port which has no connector 330 coupled thereto. In such examples, the respective housing is thus configured for preventing a connector portion or a connector cable of a connector (that is for example compatible with the connection port 200) to pass through the body when the housing is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the connection port 200.

[0113] Referring to Figs. 8 to 12, a second example of a cover, according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, is generally designated 1100, and comprises a housing 1110, two fixing members 1120, and two sealing wire arrangements 1130. The cover 1100, housing 1110, each fixing member 1120, and each sealing wire arrangement 1130 are similar to the cover 100, housing 110, fixing member 120, and sealing wire arrangement 130, respectively, of the first example and variations thereof, mutatis mutandis, with some differences as will become clearer herein.

[0114] In the example of Figs. 8 to 12, the cover 1100 is a tamper-proof cover, for preventing external access to connection port in a tamperless manner, as will be disclosed below in more detail. While in the examples of Figs. 8 to 12, the respective mounting structure is provided integrally with the respective connection port, in at least some alternative variations of these examples, the respective connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and a mounting structure is instead externally provided; the mounting structure can comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port; for example the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB .

[0115] Referring to Fig. 9, a second example of connection port, generally designated 1200, is suitable for use with at least the second example of a cover 1100, according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, such that in use the connection port 1200 can be covered in a tamper-proof manner with cover 1100. The connection port 1200 can be provided, by way of non-limiting example, on a computer device (not shown) or connected thereto via cable 1201.

[0116] The connection port 1200 comprises a connector portion 1210, at a connection end 1202 of the connection port 1200, similar to the connection port 200, connector portion 210, connection end 202, and connection port 200, respectively, of the first example, mutatis mutandis, with some differences, as will become clearer herein.

[0117] The connection port 1200 comprises a connector portion 1210, at connection end 1202 of the connection port 1200.

[0118] The connection port 200 can be a male type or female type connector portion, for example, capable of interfacing with a complementary connector portion of a connector 1350 (Fig. 10) in connection direction D, and which can be selectively connected or disconnected from the connector portion 1210.

[0119] The connection port 1200 comprises a mounting structure 1220. In at least this example, the mounting structure 1220 comprises a recess 1222 that houses the connector portion 1210 at least partially within the recess 1222. At the connection end 1202 of the connection port 1200, two flanges 1224 project from side surfaces 1203 of the mounting structure 1220. The flanges 1224 are provided with bores 1225 having an axis E parallel to the connection direction D of the connection port 1200. Each of the bores 1225 is provided with an internal screw thread 1226 within the bore 1225.

[0120] Referring again to Fig. 10, in at least this example, the housing 1110 comprises a first housing portion 1110a and a second housing portion 1110b.

[0121] In at least this example, the first housing portion 1110a and the second housing portion 1110b are arranged to be brought together in a closed configuration from an open configuration, in a direction generally transversely with respect to the bore axis E. In the open configuration, the first housing portion 1110a and the second housing portion 1110b are unattached with respect to one another.

[0122] Together, the first and second housing portions 1110a, 1110b provide a body 1111a, 1111b, configured for covering a connection port 1200 shown in Fig. 9 for example, in a tamper proof manner, i.e., in a manner that prevents external access with respect to the connection port in a tamperless manner, as will be described in more detail below. The body 1111a, 1111b, comprises two fixing bores 1112a, each having two (a first and second) fixing bore portions 1112b having a respective bore axis F which becomes a common bore axis CF (see Fig. 8) when each pair of fixing bore portions 1112b is brought together. Each of the two fixing bore portions 112b of each said pair is provided in a respective one of the first housing portion 110a or the second housing portion 110b.

[0123] Each fixing member 1120 is configured for transitioning between a fixedly engaged configuration with respect to the connection port 1200 via the respective fixing bore 1112a, to a disengaged configuration wherein the respective fixing member 1120 is no longer engaged with the connection port 1200, having moved away from the connection port in a direction parallel to the connection direction D.A removal path R1 for each fixing member 1120 is associated with the respective fixing bore 1112a. By removal path, what is meant is the volume of space, for example in the form of a cylinder, through which the respective fixing member 1120 must move, as the respective fixing member 1120 transitions from the respective fixedly engaged configuration v, to the respective disengaged configuration in a direction parallel to the connection direction D and away from the connection port 1200. The housing 1110 also comprises two wire positioning arrangements 1116, each wire positioning arrangement 1116 being associated with a different one of the two fixing bores 1112a. In at least this example the wire positioning arrangement comprises, for each fixing bore, a pair of eyelets 1116a, 1116b fixedly joined to the body 1111a, 1111b. In this example, for each pair, the respective eyelet 1116a is spaced apart from the respective eyelet 1116b in transverse arrangement with respect to the removal path Rl, i.e. across the removal path. Each of the eyelets 1116a, 1116b includes a through-bore through a respective wall portion of the body 1111a, 1111b, as will be described in more detail below.

[0124] Each of the first and second housing portions 1110a, 1110b comprises a respective recess or cavity portion 1113a, 1113b comprising an open end 1114a, 1114b configured to face towards the connection port 1200 in use, side walls 1115a, 1115b and respective opposite ends 1115c, 1115d configured to be distal from the connection port 1200 in use. In this example, the opposite ends 1115c, 1115d each comprises respective cut-out portion 1117a, 1117b or slot, shaped to surround a cable, wire or the like in a close fit or loosely, in particular a cable 1340 associated with the connector 1330 (Fig. 10), in a manner sufficient to prevent undesired access via the slot. The cavity portions 1113a, 1113b, together form a cavity 1113 which is capable of surrounding and accommodating an end of the connector 1330 that is configured to be connected to the connection port 1200. The cavity 1300 is further configured to face and enclose the connection port 1200 when fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the connection port 1200.

[0125] In at least the example of Fig. 10, the first and second housing portions 1110a, 1110b each have two flanges 1119a, 1119b protruding out sideways from both side walls 1115a, 1115b thereof. Each of the four flanges 1119a, 1119b comprises a respective through-bore being the respective fixing bore portion 1112b.

[0126] The flanges 1119a of the first housing portion 1110a are provided at a port-facing surface 1118 of the housing and have a depth dl extending away from the port-facing surface 1118 in the insertion direction D. The flanges 1119b of the second housing portion 1110b are spaced from the port-facing surface of the housing by a gap spacing gl, which is at least the same as, if not greater than the depth dl. Further, the side walls 1115b of the second housing portion 1110b are recessed to accommodate part of the protruding flanges 1119a of the first housing portion 1110a.

[0127] Similarly, the flanges 1119b of the second housing portion 1110b have a depth d2 in the insertion direction D, and a corresponding gap of width g2 being at least the same size if not greater than depth d2, is provided adjacent the flanges 1119a on a side of the flanges 1119a further from the port-facing surface 1118 of the housing portion 1110a, to permit accommodation of at least portions of the flanges 1119b of the second housing portion 1110b. In this manner, the first and second housing portions 1110a, 1110b are capable of being placed together such that the respective pairs of flanges 1119a, 1119b overlap and the respective pairs of fixing bore portions 1112b are mutually coaxially aligned.

[0128] The first housing portion 1110a comprises two semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119c protruding from side walls 1115a thereof. Each of the semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119a comprises a diametric half of a hollow cylinder, extending along the connection direction D away from the fixing bore portion 1112b, and coaxially mutually aligned therewith. Each of the semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119a comprises a through-bore or eyelet 1116a passing through a thickness thereof at a position spaced from the fixing bore portion 1112b. In the first housing portion 1110a, the semi- cylindrical channels portions 1119c are spaced by the gap of spacing g2 from the respective flanges 1119a, to accommodate the flanges 1119b of the second housing portion 1110b as described above.

[0129] The second housing portion 1110b comprises two semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119d protruding from side surfaces 1115b thereof. Each of the semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119d comprises a diametric half of a hollow cylinder, extending along the connection direction D away from the fixing bore portion 1112b, and coaxially mutually aligned therewith. Each of the semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119d comprises a through-bore or eyelet 1116b passing through a thickness thereof at a position spaced from the fixing bore portion 1112b. In the first housing portion 1110a, the semi-cylindrical channels portions 1119c are immediately adjacent to the respective flanges 1119b. When the first and second housing portions 1110a, 1110b are assembled or brought together so that the flanges 1119a, 1119b thereof overlap or align along the common bore axes CF, the semi-cylindrical channel portions 1119c, 1119d abut to form two cylindrical fixing channels having a circumferential wall. Each respective pair of eyelets 1116a, 1116b associated with each fixing bore is spaced apart circumferentially around the circumferential wall of the respective cylindrical channel.

[0130] Referring again to Figs. 8 and 9, each one of the two fixing members 120 in at least this example is in the form of a screw arranged to be inserted and removed via the respective fixing channels, with the screw head 1220 remaining inside the fixing channel, and the externally threaded screw shaft 1124 passing through both fixing bore portions 1112b and engaging in the complementary internal screw thread 1226 provided in a respective said bore 1225 of the mounting structure of the connection port (see for example Fig. 9).

[0131] The fixing members 1120 are each removable from the respective fixing bore 1112a via the respective removal path Rl. Each removal path R1 in at least this example is a cylindrical volume having a diameter not less than the diameter of the screw head 1122, and having a length equal to the depth of engagement of the screw shaft 1124 with the mounting structure of the connection port 1200. By depth of engagement, what is meant is the rearward distance away from the connection port through which the screw would have to translate in order to disengage from the connection port and thus allow removal of the cover 1100 from the connection port. As disclosed above, in this example, the eyelets 1116a are spaced apart from eyelets 1116b in transverse arrangement with respect to the removal path Rl, i.e. across the respective removal path Rl.

[0132] Referring again to Fig. 8, in at least this example each sealing wire arrangement 1130 is substantially identical to the sealing wire arrangement 130 described above in the first example, mutatis mutandis. Consequently, each sealing wire arrangement 1130 comprises a sealing wire 1132 having a threading end 1134, opposite end 1136, and a non-reusable fixing 1138, respectively similar to sealing wire 132, threading end 134, opposite end 136, and non-reusable fixing 138 of the first example, mutatis mutandis. Each respective threading end 1134 is configured to be passed through eyelets 1116a, 1116b (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to an opposite end 1136 of the sealing wire 1132 using the respective non-reusable fixing 1138.

[0133] The non-reusable fixing 1138 can include for example, a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. In particular, each non-reusable fixing 1138 is characterized in that it is fixed with respect to the respective threading end 1134 and to the respective opposite end 1136 in a manner such that removal of one or both of the threading end 1134 and the opposite end 1136 from the non-reusable fixing 1138 is expected to result in the non-reusable fixing 1138 being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement 130 has been tampered with.

[0134] The eyelets 1116a and 1116b position the sealing wire in an obstructing position with respect to the respective removal path Rl, to thereby prevent passage of the respective screw 1120 through the removal path Rl and thus preventing disengagement of the cover 1100 from the connection port 1200. Each sealing wire 1132 thus has a diameter small enough to pass through the respective eyelets 1116a, 1116b, and at the same time large enough to obstruct and prevent passage of the respective screw 1120 through the respective removal path Rl.

[0135] In this example, it should be noted that while removal of both screws 1120 is required to completely disengage the cover 1100 from the connection port 1200, removal of even a single screw could, in at least some cases, permit some small amount of undesired access to the connection port.

[0136] Once the respective ends 1134, 1136 of each sealing wire 1132 have been fixed together using the respective non-reusable fixing 1138, each sealing wire 1132 is maintained in said obstructing position with respect to the respective removal path Rl, in a tamper-proof manner. This is clearly evident, since any external access to the connection port 1200 would ultimately necessitate removing one or both sealing wire arrangements 1130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the respective sealing wire(s) 1132 or damaging the respective non-reusable fixing(s) 1138 to remove at least one of the respective ends 1134, 1136 of the respective sealing wire 1132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal one or both sealing wires 132 from the housing 1110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 1110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 1100 from the connection port 1200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 1100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangements 1130 and / or via damage to the housing 1110.

[0137] In use, connector 1330 is provided for coupling with the connection port 1200. The connector 1330 comprises cable 1340 and a head-portion 1350 that includes a connector portion 1352. The connector portion 1352 is configured for interfacing with the connector portion 1210 of the connection port 1200 by coupling therewith. Thus, in use, the connector 1330 is connected to the connection port 1200, such that the connector portions thereof 1352, 1210 interface with one another to enable any one of electrical communication therebetween, electronic communication therebetween, and data transfer communication therebetween.

[0138] Once the connector 1330 is coupled with the connection port 1200, the cover 1100 can be installed with respect to the connector 1330 and with respect to the connection port 1200 in a tamper-proof manner.

[0139] For this purpose, the two housing portions 1110a, 1110b are placed in an open configuration on two opposing sides of the head portion 1350 and a part of the cable 1340, so that the cavity portions 1113a, 1113b are open towards one another, as shown in Fig. 10. In this manner, the housing 1110 is positioned around the head portion 1350 and around a part of the cable 1340 for example as illustrated in Fig. 10. The two housing portions 1110a, 1110b are then brought together into contact with one another in a closed configuration, to thereby enclose the head portion 1350 and the aforementioned part of the cable 1340.

[0140] In the closed configuration, the housing 110 is suitable for engaging with the mounting structure 1220.

[0141] In the closed configuration, the portions of the fixing bores 1112b are mutually aligned coaxially along common axes CF, the head portion 1350 of the connector 1330 is enclosed within the cavity provided by cavity portions 1113a, 1113b and the cable 1340 passes through the cut-out portions 1117a, 1117b provided in the ends 1115c, 1115d of the body of the housing portions. In the closed configuration, the cable 340 is surrounded by the cut-out portions 1117a, 1117b in a close-fitting manner or in a loose manner, but such as to prevent undesired external access to the connection port via the cut-out portions 1117a, 1117b. For example, the cable opening defined by the cut-out portions 1117a, 1117b is of a size and shape such as to allow passage of the cable 1340 therethrough, but not to allow passage of the head portion 1350 therethrough, except possibly in a destructive manner that thereby shows evidence of tampering.

[0142] The fixing members 1120 are then provided via the respective fixing channels, the shaft 1124 of each fixing member 1120 passing first through the respective fixing bore portions 1112b of each of the flanges 1119b and then 1119a in succession, and finally engaging in the respective female screw arrangement 1226 provided in the bore 1225 of the mounting structure 1220 of the connection port 1200.

[0143] Once each fixing member 1120 is engaged with respect to the mounting structure 1220 via the housing 1110, the threading end of a respective said sealing wire is passed through eyelets 1116a and 1116b (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to the opposite end of the sealing wire using a non-reusable fixing, such as a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. Each pair of eyelets 1116a and 1116b positions the respective sealing wire in an obstructing position with respect to the respective removal path Rl, to thereby prevent passage of the screw 1120 through the removal path Rl and thus preventing disengagement of the cover 1100 from the connection port 1200.

[0144] As each fixing 1138 is non-reusable, any access to the connection port 1200 would necessitate removing of the sealing wire arrangement 1130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting each sealing wire 11132 or damaging the respective non-reusable fixing 1138 to remove at least one of the respective ends 1134, 1136 of the respective sealing wire 1132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire(s) 1132 from the housing 1110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 1110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 1100 from the connection port 1200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 1100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangement(s) 1130 and / or via damage to the housing 1110. Thus, each sealing wire 1132 is maintained in said obstructing position with respect to the respective removal path Rl, in a tamper-proof manner.

[0145] According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter the cover includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the second example, mutatis mutandis, with the difference that the housing 1110 is provided with closed ends 1115c, 1115d, i.e. without the cut-out portions 1117a, 1117b, and the cover 1100 can be used to prevent undesired external access to an empty connection port 1200 , i.e. a connection port which has no connector 1330 coupled thereto.

[0146] Referring to Figs. 13 and 14, a first example of a cover, according to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, is generally designated 2100, and comprises a housing 2110, two fixing members 2120, and two sealing wire arrangements 2130.

[0147] The cover 2100 is a tamper-proof cover for enclosing at least one connection port in a manner preventing external access to the at least one connection port, as will be described below in more detail.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 13, a first example of connection port, generally designated 2200, is suitable for use with at least the first example of a cover 2100, according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, such that in use the connection port 2200 can be covered in a tamper-proof manner with cover 2100. The connection port 2200 can be provided, by way of non-limiting example, on a computer device (not shown) or connected thereto via a cable (not shown).

[0149] The connection port 2200 comprises a connector portion 2210, at a connection end 2202 of the connection port 2200.

[0150] The connection port 2200 can be a male type or female type connector portion, for example, and capable of interfacing with a complementary connector portion of a suitable connector (not shown) in connection direction D, and which can be selectively connected or disconnected from the connector portion 2210.

[0151] The connection port 2200 further comprises a mounting structure 2220. In at least this example, the mounting structure 2220 comprises a recess 2222 that houses the connector portion 2210 at least partially within the recess 2222. At the connection end 2202 of the connection port 2200, two bores 2225 are provided on either side of the connector portion 2210, each bore 2225 having an axis G parallel to a connection direction D of the connection port 2200. Each of the bores 2225 is provided with an internal screw thread 2226 within the bore 2225.

[0152] While in the examples of Figs. 13 to 14, the respective mounting structure is provided integrally with the respective connection port, in at least some alternative variations of these examples, the respective connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and a mounting structure is instead externally provided; the mounting structure can comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port; for example the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB. (Such examples can relate for example to I / O ports that are used only for configuring stages, such as for example firmware burning. However, in later stages, the connection port is not connected and can be securely covered in a tamper-proof manner.)

[0153] In at least this example, the housing 2110 comprises a body 2111 configured for wholly covering the connection port 2200, in a manner that prevents external tamperless access with respect to the connection port 2200, as will be described in more detail below. The body 2111 comprises a hollow shell-like structure surrounding a cavity 2117, having a front surface 2113 configured to cover a front- side portion of a connector portion 2210 is use and circumferential side surfaces 2114 configured to project from the front surface in the connection direction D towards the connection port to surround the sides of the connector portion 2210 of the connection port 2200. A port-facing side 2112 of the body 2111 is open and is configured to face toward a connection port in use. The cavity 2117 is configured to face and enclose the at least one connection port 2200 in use.

[0154] The circumferential side surfaces 2114 comprise a top surface 2114a, a bottom surface 2114b and two side surfaces 2114c, each of the two side surfaces 2114c connecting the top surface 2114a to the bottom surface 2114b. Protruding out sideways from each of the two connecting side surfaces 2114c is a flange 2116 comprising a fixing bore 2115 passing therethrough. Each fixing bore 2115 has a respective bore axis H.

[0155] The housing 2110 also comprises a wire positioning arrangement 2118 associated with each fixing bore 2115, the wire positioning arrangement comprising, for each fixing bore 2115, two housing through-bores - a first housing through-bore 2118a passing through the front surface 2113 of the body 2111 of the housing 2110, and a second housing through-bore 2118b passing through the top surface 2114a of the body 2111 of the housing 2110. Both of through-bores 2118a, 2118b in each pair of through-bores, faces away from the connection port 2200, and is accessible, when the cover 2100 is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the connection port 2200, so as to wholly cover the connection port 2200.

[0156] Each of the fixing members 2120 in at least this example is in the form of a screw. Each fixing member 2120 comprises a respective head portion 2122, and a respective shaft portion 2124 having an external screwthread. A collar portion 2123 is disposed between the shaft portion 2124 and the head portion 2122, and has a diameter greater than the shaft portion 2124 but less than the head portion 2122.

[0157] While in at least this example, the head portion 2122 comprises a central hexagonal shaped socket 2126, configured to receive an Allen Key for driving the screw, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective head portion can include a different arrangement for enabling a turning moment to be applied to the respective fixing member.

[0158] The head portion 2122 further comprises a through -bore 2128 passing through the head portion 2122 of the screw 2120. In at least this example, the through-bore 2128 is located on a part of the head portion which is at a diameter greater than the collar portion, so that the through-bore 2128 is free of obstruction by the collar portion 2123.

[0159] The respective shafts 2124 of the screws 2120 are arranged to be inserted and removed via the respective fixing bores 2115, and engaging in the internal screw thread 2226 provided in a respective said bore 2225 of the mounting structure of the connection port 2200. Each respective collar portion 2123 has a diameter greater than the through- bore 2128 and thus is unable to pass through the through-bore 2128. Instead, the collar portion 2123 abuts the flange 2116, and spaces the head portion 2122 of the screw 2120 from the flange 2116, ensuring that the through-bore 2128 remains unobstructed by the flange 2116.

[0160] With reference to Fig. 13, each sealing wire arrangement 2130 is substantially identical to the sealing wire arrangement 130 described above in the first example of the first aspect, mutatis mutandis.

[0161] Consequently, each sealing wire arrangement 2130 comprises a sealing wire 2132 having a threading end 2134, opposite end 2136, and a non-reusable fixing 2138, respectively similar to sealing wire 132, threading end 134, opposite end 136, and non- reusable fixing 138 of the first example of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, mutatis mutandis.

[0162] Each respective threading end 2134 is configured to be passed through one of the screw through-bores 2128 and a respective pair of housing through-bores 2118a, 2118b (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to an opposite end 2136 of the sealing wire 2132 using the respective non-reusable fixing 2138.

[0163] The non-reusable fixing 2138 can include for example, a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. In particular, each non-reusable fixing 2138 is characterized in that it is fixed with respect to the respective threading end 2134 and to the respective opposite end 2136 in a manner such that removal of one or both of the threading end 2134 and the opposite end 2136 from the non-reusable fixing 2138 is expected to result in the non-reusable fixing 2138 being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement 2130 has been tampered with.

[0164] Once fixed, the wire prevents rotation of the screw head portion 2122, prevents full rotation of, and thus removal of, the screw 2120, and thus prevents disengagement of the cover 2100 from the connection port 2200. In this example, it should be noted that while removal of both screws is required to completely disengage the cover from the connection port, removal of even a single screw could, in at least some cases, permit some small amount of undesired access to the connection port. Once the respective ends of each sealing wire 2132 have been fixed together using the respective non-reusable fixing 2138, the respective sealing wire prevents full rotation of, and thus removal of, the screws, in a tamper-proof manner.

[0165] This is clearly evident, since any external access to the connection port 2200 would ultimately necessitate removing each sealing wire arrangement 2130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the sealing wires 2132 or damaging the non-reusable fixings 2138 to remove at least one of the respective ends 2134, 2136 of the respective sealing wire 2132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 2132 from the housing 2110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 2110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 2100 from the connection port 2200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 2100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangements 2130 and / or via damage to the housing 2110.

[0166] In use, the cover 2100 can be installed with respect to the connection port 2200 in a tamper-proof manner.

[0167] For this purpose, the housing 2110 is placed over an open connector portion 2210 of a connection port 2200, such that the cavity 2117 of the housing body 2111 receives any protruding parts of the connector portion 2210. The fixing members 2120 are then provided, passing first through the respective fixing bores 2115 of the flanges 2116 and then engaging in the respective internal screw arrangement 2226 provided in the respective bore 2225 of the mounting structure 2220 of the connection port 2200.

[0168] Once each fixing member 2120 is engaged, each sealing wire arrangement 2130 is installed in a rotation prevention position with respect to the respective fixing members 2120. This is accomplished by passing the threading end 2134 of the respective said sealing wire 2132 through one of the screw through-bores 2128 and a respective pair of housing through-bores 2118a, 2118b (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to the opposite end of the sealing wire 2132 using the respective non- reusable fixing, such as a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. Once fixed, the wire limits rotation of the screw head portion 2122, thereby obstructs removal of the screw 2120, and thus prevents disengagement of the cover 2100 from the connection port. As the fixing 2138 is non-reusable, any access to the connection port 2200 would necessitate removing the sealing wire arrangement 2130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the respective sealing wire 2132 or damaging the non-reusable fixing 2138 to remove at least one of the ends 2134, 2136 of the sealing wire 2132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 2132 from the housing 2110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 2110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 2100 from the connection port 2200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 2100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangement(s) 2130 and / or via damage to the housing 2110.

[0169] Thus, the sealing wire 2132 is maintained in the aforesaid rotation prevention position with respect to the respective fixing member 2120, in a tamper-proof manner.

[0170] Referring to Figs. 15 and 16, a second example of a cover, according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, is generally designated 3100, and comprises a housing 3110, a fixing member 3120, and a sealing wire arrangement 3130.

[0171] The cover 3100, housing 3110, fixing member 3120, and sealing wire arrangement 3130 are similar to the cover 2100, housing 2110, fixing member 2120, and sealing wire arrangement 2130, respectively, of the first example and variations thereof according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, mutatis mutandis, with some differences as will become clearer herein.

[0172] Thus, the cover 3100 is a tamper-proof cover for enclosing at least one connection port in a manner preventing external access to the at least one connection port, as will be described below in more detail.

[0173] The cover 3100 is suitable for covering two adjacent connection ports simultaneously, where a mounting structure of the connection ports comprises a bore located between the two connection ports, the bore having an axis parallel to a connection direction of the connection port. The bore is provided with an internal screw thread within the bore.

[0174] While in the examples of Figs. 15 to 16, the respective mounting structure is provided integrally with the respective connection port, in at least some alternative variations of these examples, the respective connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and a mounting structure is instead externally provided; the mounting structure can comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port; for example the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB .

[0175] In at least this example, the housing 3110 comprises a body 3111 configured for wholly covering two adjacent connection ports, in a manner that prevents external tamperless access with respect to the connection ports, as will be described in more detail below. The body 3111 comprises a hollow double-shell-like structure surrounding two adjacent cavities 3117a, 3117b, each configured to cover a respective connection port in use. The body 3111 comprises a port-facing side 3112 having two openings to the cavities 3117a, 3117b, a front surface 3113 spaced from the port-facing side 3112 and parallel thereto in a direction away from the connection port along the connection axis D, and circumferential side surfaces 3114 configured to protrude from the front surface 3113 in the connection direction D towards the connection port facing side 3112 to surround the sides of the connection port when connected thereto.

[0176] The front surface 3113 comprises a protrusion 3116 centrally located thereon, protruding away from the front surface 3113 parallel to the connection direction D. A fixing bore 3115 is provided through the body 3111, including via the protrusion 3116, passing between the two cavities 3117a, 3117b. The fixing bore 3115 has a bore axis J, configured to be parallel to the connection direct D.

[0177] The housing 3110 also comprises a wire positioning arrangement 3118 associated with the fixing bore 3115, the wire positioning arrangement comprising a housing through-bore having an inlet 3118a and an outlet 3118b passing through the protrusion 3116 of the body 3111 of the housing 3110. Both the inlet and outlet 3118a, 3118b of the housing through-bore are accessible, when the cover is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the connection port, so as to wholly cover the two connection ports.

[0178] The fixing member 3120 is a screw substantially identical to screw 2120 of the first example according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, mutatis mutandis. Thus, the fixing member 3120 in the form of a screw comprises a head portion 3122 and a shaft portion 3124. A collar portion 3123 is disposed between the shaft portion 3124 and the head portion 3122, and has a diameter greater than the shaft portion but less than the head portion.

[0179] While in at least this example, the head portion 3122 comprises a central hexagonal shaped socket, configured to receive an Allen Key for driving the screw, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective head portion can include a different arrangement for enabling a turning moment to be applied to the respective fixing member.

[0180] The head portion 3122 further comprises a through-bore 3128 passing through the head portion of the screw. In at least this example, the through-bore 3128 is located on a part of the head portion which is at a diameter greater than the collar portion, so that the through-bore 3128 is free of obstruction by the collar portion.

[0181] The shaft of the screw 3120 is arranged to be inserted and removed via the fixing bore, and engaged in the female screw thread provided in a respective said bore of the mounting structure of the connection port (not shown). The collar portion 3123 has a diameter greater than the through-bore 3128 and thus is unable to pass through the fixing bore 3115. Instead, the collar portion 3123 abuts the protrusion 3116, and spaces the head portion 3122 of the screw 3120 from the protrusion 3116, ensuring that the through-bore 3128 remains unobstructed by the protrusion 3116.

[0182] The sealing wire arrangement 3130 is substantially identical to the sealing wire arrangement 130 described above in the first example of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, mutatis mutandis.

[0183] Thus, the sealing wire arrangement 3130 comprises a sealing wire 3132 having a threading end 3134, opposite end 3136, and a non-reusable fixing 3138, respectively similar to sealing wire 132, threading end 134, opposite end 136, and non-reusable fixing 138 of the first example of the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, mutatis mutandis.

[0184] The threading end 3134 is configured to be passed through the screw through- bores 3128 and the housing through bore 3118 via the inlet and out thereof 3118a, 3118b (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to an opposite end of the sealing wire using the non-reusable fixing 3138.

[0185] The non-reusable fixing 3138 can include for example, a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. In particular, each non-reusable fixing 3138 is characterized in that it is fixed with respect to the respective threading end 3134 and to the respective opposite end 3136 in a manner such that removal of one or both of the threading end 3134 and the opposite end 3136 from the non-reusable fixing 3138 is expected to result in the non-reusable fixing 3138 being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement 3130 has been tampered with.

[0186] Once fixed, the wire prevents rotation of the screw head portion, prevents full rotation of, and thus removal of, the screw 3120, and thus prevents disengagement of the cover 3100 from the twin connection ports.

[0187] Once the ends 3134, 3146 of the sealing wire 3132 have been fixed together using the non-reusable fixing 3138, the sealing wire 3132 prevents full rotation of and thus removal of the screw.

[0188] This is clearly evident, since any external access to the double connection port would ultimately necessitate removing the sealing wire arrangement 3130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the sealing wire 3132 or damaging the non-reusable fixing 3138 to remove at least one of the ends 3134, 3136 of the sealing wire 3132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 3132 from the housing 3110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 3110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 3100 from the connection port 3200, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 3100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangement 3130 and / or via damage to the housing 3110.

[0189] In use, the cover 3100 can be installed with respect to the double connection port in a tamper-proof manner.

[0190] For this purpose, the housing 3110 is placed over an open connector portion of at least one, if not two connection ports, such that the cavities 3117a, 3117b of the housing body 3111 each receive any protruding parts of the respective connection port. The fixing member 3120 is then provided passing first through the fixing bore 3115 and then engaging in a respective internal screw thread provided in the respective bore of the mounting structure of the connection ports.

[0191] Once the fixing member 3120 is engaged, the sealing wire arrangement 3130 is installed in a rotation prevention position with respect to the fixing member 3120. This is accomplished by passing the threading end of said sealing wire through the screw through-bore 3128 and the inlet and outlet 3118a, 3118b of the housing through-bore 3118 (in succession or in the reverse order) and subsequently fixed to the opposite end of the sealing wire using a non-reusable fixing, such as a crimping bead, zip-tie arrangement or the like. Once fixed, the wire limits rotation of the screw head portion 3122, thereby obstructs removal of the screw 3120, and thus prevents disengagement of the cover 3100 from the connection ports.

[0192] As the fixing 3138 is non-reusable, any access to the double connection port would necessitate removal of the sealing wire arrangement 3130 in a destructive manner, such as cutting the sealing wire 3132 or damaging the non-reusable fixing 3138 to remove at least one of the ends 3134, 3136 of the sealing wire 3132 therefrom, or, would necessitate removal of the sealing wire 3132 from the housing 3110 in a destructive manner with respect to the housing 3110. Either way, if it were attempted to remove the cover 3100 from the double connection port, tamper evidence is expected to be created in the cover 3100, via damage to the sealing wire arrangement 3130 and / or via damage to the housing 3110.

[0193] Thus, the sealing wire 3132 is maintained in said rotation prevention position with respect to the respective fixing member 3120, in a tamper-proof manner.

[0194] Referring to Figs. 17 and 18, and according to a variation of the second example of the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, cover 4110 includes all the features of, and operates in a similar manner to, the cover 3110, mutatis mutandis, with a few differences, as will become clearer herein.

[0195] While in the examples of Figs. 17 to 18, the respective mounting structure is provided integrally with the respective connection port, in at least some alternative variations of these examples, the respective connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and a mounting structure is instead externally provided; the mounting structure can comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port; for example the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB .

[0196] Regarding cover 4110, the respective fixing member 4120 comprises a cylindrical head portion 4122 having an axis along the length of the respective screw or fixing member 4120. A projection 4126 radially projects from a circumferential side-surface of the head-portion 4122. The protrusion 4126 comprises a through-bore 4128 passing therethrough having an axis TA transverse to the screw longitudinal axis LA.

[0197] A through bore corresponding to the through -bore 3128 of the example of Figs. 15 and 16 is not present in the example of Figs. 17 and 18, and there also no need for a respective collar portion of the screw as in the example of Figs. 15 and 16.

[0198] The example of Figs. 17 and 18 operates in the same manner as that of Figs. 15 and 16, mutatis mutandis, with the exception that the respective sealing wire 4132 of the respective sealing arrangement 4130 passes through through-bore 4128 provided in the projection 4126, rather than through the head portion 4122 per se.

[0199] It is to be noted that in the examples of Figs. 15 to 18, the respective body of the respective covers can be instead configured with only one cavity, or with more than two cavities (for example three or four cavities) for wholly covering one connection port, or more than two adjacent connection ports. Additionally, or alternatively, the respective covers can include more than one fixing member, each respective fixing member being associated with at least one sealing arrangement for immobilizing the respective fixing member in a tamper proof manner.

[0200] In any one of the above examples of any of the above aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, the sealing wire arrangement can be provided with indicia comprising an identifier code. The identifier code can comprise at least one of a barcode or an assigned alphanumeric sequence of characters which can differ from one sealing wire arrangement to the next, such that replacement with an identical sealing wire arrangement after unauthorized access is almost impossible, and thus provides further evidence of tampering.

[0201] Finally, it should be noted that the word “comprising” as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”.

[0202] While there has been shown and disclosed examples in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, it will be appreciated that many changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as set out in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A tamper-proof cover for preventing external access to at least one connection port, the tamper-proof cover comprising a housing, at least one fixing member, and at least one sealing wire arrangement: the housing comprising: a body configured for covering the at least one connection port in a manner that prevents external access with respect to the at least one connection port independently of the housing, the body comprising at least one fixing bore having a respective bore axis, and a respective removal path associated with each said fixing bore; a wire positioning arrangement associated with the at least one fixing bore, the wire positioning arrangement comprising at least two eyelets fixedly joined to the body and spaced apart in transverse arrangement with respect to each respective said removal path; the at least one fixing member being configured, in use, to fixedly engage the housing with respect to a mounting structure associated with the at least one connection port via a respective said fixing bore, to thereby fixedly cover the at least one connection port, the at least one fixing member being at least selectively removable from the respective fixing bore via the respective said removal path; the at least one sealing wire arrangement comprising at least one sealing wire configured, in use, to be positioned via the at least two eyelets in an obstructing position with respect to the removal path, to thereby prevent passage of the respective fixing member through the removal path; and wherein the sealing wire arrangement is configured to maintain in a tamper-proof manner the at least one sealing wire in said obstructing position with respect to the housing.

2. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises at least one cavity configured to face and enclose the at least one connection port when fixedly engaged with the respective said mounting structure.

3. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the housing comprises a first housing portion and a second housing portion arranged to be connectedtogether in a closed configuration at least when fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port.

4. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 3 , wherein each said at least one fixing bore comprises a respective first bore portion provided in the first housing portion, and a second bore portion provided in the second housing portion; wherein in the closed configuration the first bore portion and the second bore portion are mutually aligned so as to permit passage of the respective fixing member therethrough and thereby enable the housing to be fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port.

5. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 4, wherein each of the first housing portion and the second housing portion comprises at least one respective flange, each at least one flange comprising a borehole defining the respective first bore portion or the respective second bore portion of the respective at least one fixing bore; wherein, in the closed configuration, the at least one flange of the first housing portion is configured to align with the at least one flange of the second housing portion so that the respective boreholes of each fixing bore are aligned coaxially to permit passage of the respective fixing member therethrough.

6. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the at least two eyelets are arranged with respect to the body such that at least one said eyelet is located on the first housing portion and at least one other said eyelet is located on the second housing portion.

7. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 5 or 6, wherein in said closed configuration, the housing defines a fixing channel extending from each respective said fixing bores along the bore axis in a direction away from a port-facing surface of the housing, each said fixing channel being arranged to receive a respective said fixing member therethrough tom thereby enable the housing to be fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port, each said fixing channel comprising a respective circumferential wall comprising at least two said eyelets formed therein.

8. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 7, wherein each said fixing channel comprises two respective said eyelets diametrically disposed with respect to the fixing channel.

9. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein each said removal path is at least partially located within a respective said fixing channel.

10. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion are arranged to be brought together in the closed configuration from an open configuration generally transversely with respect to the at least one bore axis.

11. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 10, wherein in the open configuration the first housing portion and the second housing portion are unattached with respect to one another.

12. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 10, wherein the first housing portion and second housing portion are pivotably connected to one another at respective first ends thereof with respect to a pivot axis, and wherein respective second ends thereof each comprise a portion of each respective said fixing bore; wherein the first housing portion and second housing portion are pivotable about the pivot axis between the open position and the closed position; wherein in the closed configuration the portions of the at least one fixing bore are aligned to thereby permit passage of the respective said fixing member therethrough.

13. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 12, wherein when the first housing portion and the second housing portion are pivotally rotated about the hingedly connected respective said first ends so as to bring the respective said second ends together in the closed configuration.

14. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the pivot axis is nominally parallel with respect to at least one said bore axis.

15. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the body is configured in the closed configuration to at least partially enclose at least a connector portion of at least one connector when the connector is connected to the at least one connection port, and the housing is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port.

16. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 15, wherein the housing comprises at least one slot, configured to permit passage of a connector cable of the at least one connector therethrough.

17. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 3 to 15, wherein the housing comprises at least one slot, configured to permit passage of a connector cable of the at least one connector therethrough, wherein each said slot is defined by a first slot part provided in the first housing portion and a second slot part provided in the second housing portion.

18. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said housing is configured for preventing a connector portion or a connector cable of at least one connector to pass through the body when the housing is fixedly engaged with the mounting structure of the at least one connection port.

19. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein each said sealing wire arrangement comprises at least one respective sealing wire having a respective threading end and a respective opposite end, and a respective non-reusable fixing configured for non-reversibly bonding the respective threading end and the respective opposite end together in a tamper-proof manner.

20. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 19, wherein each said non-reusable fixing configured for being affixed with respect to respective threading end and to the respective opposite end in a manner such that removal of at least one of the threading end and the opposite end with respect to the non-reusable fixing results in the non-reusablefixing being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement has been tampered with.

21. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 19 to 20, wherein each said sealing arrangement is configured to provide unique or semi-unique tamper proof characteristics.

22. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 21, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include customizing each said sealing wire arrangement.

23. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 21 to 22, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include a unique physical indication on the non-reusable fixing.

24. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 23, wherein said unique physical indication includes indicia comprising an identifier code.

25. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 24, wherein said identifier code includes at least one of: a code number, an alphanumeric code, a bar code, coded text, special logos, a writing surface that can be signed by an installer, a laser surface authentication (LSA).

26. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include a technologically based identification provided in the non-reusable fixing.

27. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 26, wherein said technologically based identification includes any one of: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) label; a Bluetooth identification device; a biometric fingerprint reader, Active Fiber Optic seal, smart cards.

28. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the mounting structure is integrally provided with the connection port.

29. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the connection port lacks an integrally provided mounting structure, and wherein the mounting structure is externally provided, the mounting structure comprising a casing that is configured for partially enclosing the connection port and for being affixed to a same component that the connection port is mounted to, the casing having an open side configured for exposing a connector portion of the connection port to thereby enable a connector to be connected to the connection port.

30. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 29, wherein the connection port is provided on a PCB, and the casing is configured for being affixed to the PCB.

31. A tamper-proof cover for enclosing at least one connection port in a manner preventing external access to the at least one connection port, the tamper-proof cover comprising a housing, at least one fixing member, and at least one sealing wire arrangement: the housing comprising: a body configured for covering the at least one connection port in a manner that prevents external access with respect to the at least one connection port, the body comprising at least one fixing bore; and a wire positioning arrangement associated with the at least one fixing bore, the wire positioning arrangement comprising at least one housing through-bore configured for receipt of a sealing wire, said housing through-bore being accessible for receiving said sealing wire when the cover is in an engaged position covering the connection port; the at least one fixing member configured, in use, to fixedly engage the housing with respect to a mounting structure of the at least one connection port via a respective bore, to thereby cover the at least one connection port, wherein the at least one fixing member comprises a fixing member through-bore having ends which are accessible externally of the housing at least when the fixing member is in a configuration fixedly engaging the housing with the connection port; and the at least one sealing wire arrangement comprising at least one said sealing wire configured, in use, to be positioned via a respective said housing through-bore and arespective said fixing member through-bore, to thereby obstruct removal of said fixing member.

32. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 31, wherein the housing comprises at least one cavity configured to face and enclose the at least one connection port when fixedly engaged with the respective mounting structure.

33. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 31 to 32, comprising at least two said fixing members, and wherein the housing comprises at least two flanges on opposite sides of the housing, each said flange comprising a respective said fixing bore passing therethrough configured to receive a respective said fixing member.

34. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the at least one fixing member comprises a head-portion, and wherein the respective said fixing member through-bore is provided in the respective said head portion.

35. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein each said sealing wire arrangement comprises at least one respective sealing wire having a respective threading end and a respective opposite end, and a respective non-reusable fixing configured for non-reversibly bonding the respective threading end and the respective opposite end together in a tamper-proof manner.

36. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 35, wherein each said non-reusable fixing configured for being affixed with respect to respective threading end and to the respective opposite end in a manner such that removal of at least one of the threading end and the opposite end with respect to the non-reusable fixing results in the non-reusable fixing being damaged in a manner indicating that the sealing wire arrangement has been tampered with.

37. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 35 to 36, wherein each said sealing arrangement is configured to provide unique or semi-unique tamper proof characteristics.

38. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 37, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include customizing each said sealing wire arrangement.

39. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 37 to 38, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include a unique physical indication on the non-reusable fixing.

40. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 39, wherein said unique physical indication includes indicia comprising an identifier code.

41. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 40, wherein said identifier code includes at least one of: a code number, an alphanumeric code, a bar code, coded text, special logos, a writing surface that can be signed by an installer, laser surface authentication (LSA).

42. The tamper-proof cover according to any one of claims 37 to 41, wherein said tamper proof characteristics include a technologically based identification provided in the non-reusable fixing.

43. The tamper-proof cover according to claim 42, wherein said technologically based identification includes any one of: Radio-frequency identification (RFID) label; a Bluetooth identification device; a biometric fingerprint reader, Active Fiber Optic seal, smart card .

44. A connection port configured to receive an electrical connector, the connection port comprising a mounting structure configured to be engaged by at least one respective fixing member of a tamper-proof cover as defined in any one of claims 1 to 43.

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