KEY LOCATOR WITH REMOTE TRACKING

Abstract

A key locator with tracking capability. A bent rod-shaped first member has a bent first end portion and a second end portion. A second member is configured for selectively retaining keys. The bent first end portion and second end portion are opposed to each other. The bend rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate to the bent first end portion and the second end portion to form the interior of the key locator. The bent first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent center region to hang from an edge. The bent first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly interlocks with the second member. A tracking device is connected to the key locator and is in radio frequency communication with a user's smart phone. In a preferred embodiment the tracking device enables a user of the smart phone to find the key locator if it is lost or misplaced.

Description

The present disclosure relates to locators and tracking devices, and in particular to locators adapted to facilitate the ready location of items in a purse, backpack, briefcase or like bag, and for tracking devices for remotely tracking and locating such personal items. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/866,201, filed Sep. 25, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 14/460,936, filed Aug. 15, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/759,979, filed Feb. 5, 2013, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/073,789, filed on Mar. 28, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,131,758, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/468,012, filed on May 18, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,672,002, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/977,891, filed on Oct. 26, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,537,032, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/919,494, filed on Aug. 17, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,308,922, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Key locators are known and have been described in great detail in Applicant's previous patents listed above. Exemplary key locators are currently being sold and are available at Applicant's website at www.finderskeypurse.com.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a low-power wireless connectivity technology used to stream audio, transfer data and broadcast information between devices. Bluetooth operates in the 2400-2483.5 MHz range within the ISM 2.4 GHz frequency band. Data is split into packets and exchanged through one of 79 designated Bluetooth channels (each of which have 1 MHz in bandwidth). Bluetooth Low Energy (also known as Bluetooth 4.0, Bluetooth LE or BLE) enables short-burst wireless connections and uses multiple network topologies, including point-to-point, broadcast and mesh. Devices that don't need to send data constantly or that only need to send small bits of data can operate with very low power consumption. Most modern smart phones are Bluetooth LE compatible.

Smart Tag Tracking Devices

A smart tag tracking device is a type of Bluetooth LE tracking device that has become popular in recent years. There are several companies making smart tag tracking devices. For example, smart tag tracking device 500 (FIG. 13) can be purchased from Tile, Inc. with offices in San Mateo, Calif. Also, smart tag tracking device 501 (FIG. 14) may be purchased from TrackR, Inc. with offices in Santa Barbara, Calif. The smart tag tracking device can be attached to an item that a user does not wish to lose or misplace and the tracking device will communicate with the user via the user's smart phone utilizing radio waves (such as Bluetooth LE). In addition to purchasing the smart tag tracking device, the user also downloads a software app onto his smart phone. The app allows the user to communicate with the smart tag tracking device and to keep track of the item's location. Each tracking device can last for approximately one year without having to recharge the tracking device's battery while utilizing Bluetooth LE.

For example, it is common to attach a smart tag tracking device to a keychain. FIG. 15 shows a set of keys attached to tracking device 500. The user can then track the location of the keychain from his smart phone. Or a user may place a tracking device inside his wallet. If the user misplaces his wallet he can locate the wallet via his smart phone. A user may also leave a smart tag in his car when the car is parked in the parking lot. The app on the user's smart phone will interface with the smart tag to keep track of the car's location, so that the user can be guided back to the smart tag left in the car. Also, smart tag tracking devices are commonly attached to other items. For example, a smart tag may be placed in a laptop or a purse.

User's may configure the software app to play an alarm on the smart phone if the tracked object starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert if the user leaves the object behind or someone is stealing it.

Through Bluetooth LE, the tracking device can stay in near constant communication with the user's smart phone. It is then easy for the phone (when paired with the appropriate software from the tracker vendor) to sound the alarm when the user becomes separated from tracker and the object it's attached to. Based on the particulars of Bluetooth tracker utilized and the accompanying software, the tracking device can chirp when the user needs to locate the misplaced or lost item, thereby alerting the user when he has strayed too far from the tracking device. The app can also remind the user where the item was last seen.

It is also possible to use the Bluetooth tracking system in reverse. For example, modern Bluetooth tracker devices have a button that the user can press and hold to reverse the location process. For example, if the user has his keys (but not his smart phone) the user can press a button on the Bluetooth tracking device to cause an alert to sound on the smart phone. The user can then locate the smart phone by listing to the audible alert.

It is also possible to use a crowd sourcing feature to locate the tracked item. The crowd sourcing feature allows a user to locate his tracked item even if the tracked item is outside of Bluetooth range from the user's smart phone. For example, the user will utilize the companion software on his smart phone to flag the Bluetooth tracked item as lost. Then when another user of the same software passes by and picks up the signal from the user's lost device, the user will get a status update based on the new location of the tracker.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a key locator with tracking capability. A bent rod-shaped first member has a bent first end portion and a second end portion. A second member is configured for selectively retaining keys. The bent first end portion and second end portion are opposed to each other. The bend rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate to the bent first end portion and the second end portion to form the interior of the key locator. The bent first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent center region to hang from an edge. The bent first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly interlocks with the second member. A tracking device is connected to the key locator and is in radio frequency communication with a user's smart phone. In a preferred embodiment the tracking device enables a user of the smart phone to find the key locator if it is lost or misplaced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are a front elevation view of a key locator in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure and a partial planar view of the ornament mounting pad thereof respectively, and FIG. 1C is a front elevation view of the key locator with the decorative element shown attached.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the key locator of FIGS. 1A through 1C in use.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the key locator in use taken at line 3-3 of FIG. 2.

FIGS. 4A-4B are a front perspective view of a key locator in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which a container is attached to the key finder.

FIG. 5 is a right side perspective view of the key locator depicted in FIGS. 4A-4B showing the key locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is configured to be in a closed configuration that seals an interior portion of the container.

FIG. 6 is a left side perspective view of the key locator depicted in FIGS. 4A-4B showing the key locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse with the container, where the container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container, and where the first face is configured to be in an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container.

FIG. 7 illustrates more details of a second member of a key locator in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 illustrate a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure, showing a locator hanging from an edge of a bag-like purse and some personal safety items inside of the purse.

FIG. 11 illustrates a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure, showing personal safety items and/or additional personal items are attached to a locator.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a personal safety kit in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 shows a prior art tracking device.

FIG. 14 shows another prior art tracking device.

FIG. 15 shows utilization of a prior art tracking device.

FIG. 16 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 17-19 show a preferred tracking device mounted within preferred housing.

FIG. 20 shows components of a preferred tracking device.

FIG. 21 shows a preferred smart phone.

FIG. 22 shows preferred radio frequency connectivity between a key locator and a smart phone.

FIG. 23 shows preferred radio frequency connectivity between a key locator and a smart phone.

FIGS. 24-25 show another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

First Embodiment

Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of the key locator 10 of the invention. The key locator 10 comprises interlocking first and second members 12 and 14 respectively. In some embodiments the first member 12 and the second members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and the second member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and the second member 14 are each made of metal. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and/or the second member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member 12 is electroplated.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the second member 14 includes a clasp 16 that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element 18. It will be appreciated that clasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain keys. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than a clasp 16, a key ring is used in the place of clasp 16. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the u-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage a hook 20 at a first end portion of the first member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of the members 12 and 14. One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other methods by which members 12 and 14 can be flexibly engaged. For example, there can be a ring (not shown in FIG. 1) at the first end portion of the first member 12 that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18. In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element 18. The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18. The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as a polygon, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook 20 to u-shaped element 18. In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element 18. The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element 18 to hook 20.

It will be appreciated that hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14. For example, hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated that u-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14. For example, rather than having a u-shaped element 18, a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members 12 and 14.

In one aspect, referring to FIG. 1C, a first end portion 12a of the first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14, where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.

Referring to FIG. 7, in some embodiments the first end portion 12a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member of the key locator 10 further comprises a first ring 702 that is hooked onto the hook 20. The second member of the key locator 10 further comprises a member 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring 702 is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member 14 of the key locator 10 further comprises a second ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet.

Similar to FIG. 7, although not depicted, in some embodiments, the first end portion 12a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 of the key locator 10 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. The second member 14 of the key locator 10 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member 14 of the key locator 10 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet.

In another aspect, a first end portion 12a of the first member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14, where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.

Referring to FIG. 1C, the first member 12 includes a bent interior region 22. In some embodiments, a second end portion 12b of the first member 12 comprises an enlarged region 24 that serves as an ornament mounting pad for affixation of a decorative ornament 26. In some embodiments, there is no enlarged region 24 and the decorative ornament 26 is affixed directly onto the second end portion 12b of the first member 12.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1C, 2 and 3, the first member 12 has a first end portion 12a and a second end portion 12b. The first end portion 12a of the first member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second end portion 12b of the first member 12 is configured for affixation of an ornament 26 so that, when affixed to the key locator 10, the entire ornament is 26 substantially rigidly affixed to the key locator 10 such that any movement of the ornament 26 necessarily causes movement of the key locator 10. The first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang or clasp an edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from an edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29.

In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove the key locator 10 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29.

The ornament 26, comprising a flower-like shape as shown in the drawings but not limited thereto, is arranged to face away from the interior of the first member 12 with its back portion 28 preferably fixed to the enlarged region 24 of the member by solder or the like. In some embodiments that do not have an enlarged region 24, the back portion 28 is affixed directly onto the end portion of the first member. As used herein, an ornament is a solid object as opposed to a chain or a rope. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the key locator 10 of the invention in use. In FIG. 2, the key locator 10 is hung from the upper edge 29 of a side panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the face of the ornament 26 is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), the key locator 10 clasps the upper edge 29 of a side panel 30 of a bag-like purse 32 with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the face of the ornament 26 is exposed. The foregoing provides the user with an attractive adjunct to the bag-like purse 32 that serves the additional function of readily locating the key locator 10.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the key locator 10 of the disclosure in use taken at line 3-3 of FIG. 2. Keys or other objects 34, secured by the clasp 16 of the second member 14, are seen to lie near or at the bottom 36 of the bag-like purse 32, somewhat suspended from the upper edge 29 of the side panel 30. The bent interior region 22 of the first member 12 of the key locator 10, as mentioned with reference to the preceding figure, is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge 29 to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of the key locator 10 and keys 34 will depend upon the length of the key locator 10 relative to the depth of the side panel 30 of the bag-like purse 32. However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys 34 within the bag-like purse 32, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the ornament 26.

In FIG. 1, first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted in FIG. 1. Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of key locator 10 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat elements. In another example, in some embodiments, first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments, first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm.

In some embodiments, the bent interior region 22 is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member 12.

Although the figures illustrate the first member in which end portions are parallel to each other and are straight, the present disclosure is not so restricted. The first and second end portions 12a and 12b of the first member 12 may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may internally include any number of bends. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge.

Second Embodiment

FIGS. 4A-4B are a front perspective view of a key locator 110 in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure in which, rather than having an ornament 26, there is a container 40. As in the case of the key locator 10 discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3, the key locator 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 6 comprises interlocking first and second members 12 and 14. In some embodiments the first member 12 and the second members 14 are each independently made of steel, or other metal, a plastic, or other rigid elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and the second member 14 each independently comprise gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and the second member 14 are each made of metal. In some embodiments, the first member 12 and/or the second member 14 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the bent-rod shaped first member 12 is electroplated.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, the second member 14 includes a clasp 16 that, in some embodiments, is rotatably engaged to an inverted u-shaped element 18. It will be appreciated that clasp 16 is an exemplary way to retain keys. For example, in some alternative embodiments, rather than a clasp 16, a key ring is used in the place of clasp 16. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure, the u-shaped element 18 is arranged to engage a hook 20 at a first end portion of the first member 12 in order to provide flexible engagement of the members 12 and 14. One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are numerous other methods by which members 12 and 14 can be flexibly engaged. For example, there can be a ring (not shown in FIGS. 4A-4B) at the first end portion of the first member 12 that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18. In another example, there can be a set of interlocking rings where a first ring in the set of interlocking rings engages hook 20 whereas a second ring in the set of interlocking rings engages u-shaped element 18. The first and second ring may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking rings between the first and second ring. In still another example, there can be a closed form element (not shown) that engages both hook 20 and u-shaped element 18. The closed form element may indeed be the shape of a ring or some other symmetrical shape such as an oval but the disclosure is not so limited. Any closed form shape, such as a polygon, star-shape, or the like can be used to interlock hook 20 to u-shaped element 18. In still another example, there can be a set of interlocking closed form elements where a first closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages hook 20 whereas a second closed form element in the set of interlocking closed form elements engages u-shaped element 18. The first and second closed form elements may interlock or there may be any number of interlocking closed form elements between the first and second closed form element. In some embodiments, a chain is used to interlock u-shaped element 18 to hook 20.

It will be appreciated that hook 20 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14 in the embodiment of the key locator 110 illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 6. For example, hook 20 can be completely closed off so that it is, in of itself, in fact a closed form shape such as a ring or oval. Similarly, it will be appreciated that u-shaped element 18 is just one example of a way to flexibly engage members 12 and 14. For example, rather than having a u-shaped element 18, a pivoting element can be used to flexibly engage members 12 and 14.

In one aspect, referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, is a first end portion 12a of the first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14, where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.

In another aspect, a first end portion 12a of the first member 12 comprises a first ring (not shown) for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or second ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14, where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In still another such embodiment, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.

Referring to FIG. 7, in some embodiments the first end portion 12a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member of the key locator further comprises a first ring 702 that is hooked onto the hook 20. The second member of the key locator 110 further comprises a member 704 having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the first ring 702 is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member 14 of the key locator 110 further comprises a second ring 706 that is attached to the second eyelet.

Similar to FIG. 7, although not depicted, in some embodiments, the first end portion 12a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 of the key locator 110 further comprises a second ring that is hooked onto the first ring. The second member 14 of the key locator 110 further comprises a member having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion. The first portion comprises a first eyelet through which the second ring is attached. The second portion comprises a second eyelet. The second member 14 of the key locator 110 further comprises a third ring, where the third ring is attached to the second eyelet.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first member 12 has a first end portion 12a and a second end portion 12b. The first end portion 12a of the first member 12 is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second end portion 12b of the first member 12 is configured for affixation of a container 40. In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4 through 6, when affixed to the key locator 110, the entire container 40 is substantially rigidly affixed to the key locator 110 such that any movement of the container 40 necessarily causes movement of the key locator 110.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the container 40 is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 so that a first face 42 of the container is exposed. The container 40 is arranged so that the first face 42 of the container 40 faces away from an interior of the bent rod-shaped first member 12. The interior of the bent rod-shaped first member is defined by the bent interior region between the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b.

In some embodiments, the container 40 comprises a hinge that attaches the first face 42 to the container 40. The first face 42 is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container 40, as depicted in FIG. 6, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container 40, as depicted in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the container 40 comprises a swivel hinge 44 that attaches the first face 42 to the container 50. In such embodiments, the first face 42 is configured to slide between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container 40 and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container 40. In some embodiments, the first face 42 is adorned with an ornament. In some embodiments, the ornament comprises an artificial or a real gem.

In some embodiments, the container 40 comprises a material selected from the group consisting of metal and plastic. In some embodiments, the container comprises gold, silver, steel, nickel, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the container 40 comprises urethane polymer, an acrylic polymer, a fluoropolymer, polybenzamidazole, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyetheretherketone, polyamide-imide, glass-based phenolic, polystyrene, cross-linked polystyrene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polytetrafluoro-ethylene, polymethacrylate, nylon 6,6, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate, rigid vinyl, plasticized vinyl, or polypropylene. In some embodiments, the container 40 is configured to store a liquid. In some embodiments, the container 40 is configured to store a gel, such as lip balm. In some embodiments, the container 40 is configured to store an object.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4 through 6, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang or clasp an edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from an edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when said bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 500 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29. In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 100 dynes and 250 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29.

In some embodiments, the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are configured so that a force of between 1 dyne and 2000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 1000 dynes, between 1 dyne and 500 dynes, between 1 dyne and 250 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 500 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 250 dynes, between 100 dynes and 2000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 1000 dynes, between 100 dynes and 500 dynes, between 100 dynes and 250 dynes, between 500 dynes and 5000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 10000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 20000 dynes, between 500 dynes and 25000 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 200 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 100 dynes, between 0.1 dynes and 50 dynes, or between 0.1 dynes and 25 dynes is required to remove the key locator 110 from the edge 29 of a bag-like purse 32 at a time when the bent interior region 22 hangs from or clasps the edge 29.

Referring to FIGS. 4 through 6, in one aspect, the key locator 110 further comprises the container 40, and the second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 comprises an enlarged portion and a second face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the enlarged portion. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face of the container is directly and permanently fixed. In some embodiments, the enlarged portion comprises a solid face to which a portion of the second face 48 is soldered.

In another aspect, the key locator 110 further comprises the container 40. A second face 48 of the container is directly and permanently fixed to the second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12.

In another aspect, the key locator 110 further comprises the container 40, and a second face 48 of the container 40 is soldered to the second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 40.

In still another aspect, the key locator 110 further comprises the container 40 and the container 40 forms a part (e.g., an integral part) of the second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are side views of the key locator 110 of the invention in use. In FIGS. 4 and 5, the key locator 110 is hung from the upper edge 29 of a side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the upper edge 29 so that the first face 42 of the container 40 is exposed. In other embodiments (not shown), the key locator 110 clasps the upper edge 29 of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel 30 so that the first face 42 of the container 40 is exposed.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are side views of the key locator 110. Keys or other objects, secured by the clasp 16 of the second member 14, may lie near or at the bottom of a bag-like purse, somewhat suspended from the upper edge 29, in the same manner as that depicted in the key locator 10 illustrated in FIG. 3. The bent interior region 22 of the first member 12 of the key locator 110 is draped, hung over or clasped to the upper edge 29 to create the suspension effect. The altitude of the bottom of the key locator 110 and keys will depend upon the length of the key locator 110 relative to the depth of the side panel of the bag-like purse. However, regardless of the precise altitude of the keys or other objects within the bag-like purse, they may be readily located due to the visible presence of the container 40.

In FIGS. 4 through 6, first member 12 has a rod-like appearance. That is, first member 12 is slender so that it can be easily gripped and removed from a bag-like container such as a purse. There is no requirement that first member 12 have the cylindrical shape depicted in FIGS. 4 through 6. Any slender shape form that enables the easy removal of key locator 110 from a bag-like purse is within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, first member 12 can be a flattened wire or other flat element. In another example, in some embodiments, the first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.01 cm and 0.5 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.1 cm and 2 cm. In another example, in some embodiments, the first member 12 has a flat rod-like shape characterized by a cross-section having first and second orthogonal dimensions in which the first dimension defines the thickness of the first member 12 and is between 0.05 cm and 0.8 cm and the second dimension defines the width of the first member 12 and is between 0.2 cm and 3 cm.

In some embodiments, the bent interior region 22 is u-shaped. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is circular. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape that is ovoid. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having one or more smooth curved surfaces or a splice of one or more smooth curved surfaces. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by a cross-sectional bounding shape having an arcuate edge. In some embodiments, the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is characterized by different cross-sectional bounding shapes at different portions of the first member 12.

Although the figures illustrate the first member 12 in which end portions are parallel to each other and are straight, the present disclosure is not so restricted. The first and second end portions 12a and 12b of the first member 12 of the key locator 110 may bend toward or away from each other. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may internally include any number of bends. Moreover, the first and second end portions of the first member 12 may be magnetized and the bent-shaped region may contain a hinge.

Third Embodiment

Another embodiment provides a key locator that is similar to the second embodiment. The key locator comprises, in combination: a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion, b) a second member configured for selectively retaining at least one key, and c) a container that is rotatably mounted to the second end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member. The first end portion and the second end portion are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a bent interior region between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion and the second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow said bent interior region to hang from or clasps an edge. The first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly engages with the second member. The container comprises a hinge that attaches a first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container.

In some embodiments, the first end portion of the bent rod-shaped first member comprises a hook for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member. The second member comprises a closed form clasp or ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. The closed form clasp or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member. The u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or ring is engaged with a closed form member and the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking ring in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.

In still other embodiments, the first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member comprises a first ring for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member and the second member comprises a closed form clasp or second ring that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element of the second member, where the u-shaped element is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, wherein the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a third ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring. In some such embodiments, the closed form clasp or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form element in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where a second interlocking closed form elements in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the first ring.

Fourth Embodiment

Another aspect provides a method comprising retaining at least one key by a second member 14 of an apparatus that comprises at least the second member 14 and a bent rod-shaped first member 12. The second member is configured for selectively retaining at least one key. The bent rod-shaped first member 12 of the apparatus has a first end portion 12a and a second end portion 12b. The first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b are opposed to each other. The bent rod-shaped first member 12 incorporates a bent interior region 22 between the first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b. The first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang from or clasps an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse. The first end portion 12a of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 substantially permanently and flexibly engages with some portion of the second member 14. The second end portion 12b of the bent rod-shaped first member 12 is affixed to a container 40. The method further comprises hanging the apparatus from the upper edge 29 of the side panel of a bag-like purse with the bent interior region 22 overhanging the side panel so that the second end portion 12b and the container 40 are exposed. The method further comprises retrieving the bent rod-shaped first member of the apparatus from the upper edge such that, when the bent rod-shaped first member is retrieved from the upper edge, the at least one key retrained by the second member is necessarily retrieved. In some embodiments, the container comprises a hinge that attaches the first face to the container. The first face is configured to move between (i) an open configuration that exposes an interior portion of the container, and (ii) a closed configuration that seals the interior portion of the container and the method further comprises operating the first face so that the face switches between the closed configuration to the open configuration.

Thus, it can be seen that the present invention provides a key locator especially suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device. By employing the key locator of the invention in conjunction with such a device, one may find keys stored within without delay. Further, by providing a decorative ornament for indicating the location of the key locator, the appearance of the bag is enhanced.

Fifth Embodiment

Turning now to FIGS. 8-11, there depicts a personal safety kit 800 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. The personal safety kit 800 in general includes one or more personal safety items such as drink safety testers, safety alarms or self-defense devices. The personal safety items are typically placed inside of a purse. To facilitate ready location of these personal safety items, the personal safety kit 800 of the invention also includes a means for locating these personal safety items when they are needed.

As shown in FIGS. 8-11, in some embodiments, the personal safety kit 800 comprises a first purse 802, a locator such as the key locator 10, and one or more personal safety items 806 (e.g., 806-1, 806-2, or 806-3 in FIG. 8). The first purse 802 is any suitable purse including handheld purses, backpacks, briefcases or other bag-like devices. The first purse 802 has an open edge 804 that is upwardly open when in use. In one embodiment, the open edge 804 is the top of the purse; in another embodiment, the open edge 804 is a portion or a region of the top of the purse. In some embodiments, the open edge 804 is an edge in the upper portion of the first purse.

In some embodiments, the first purse 802 is transparent or semi-transparent. The term “transparent” or “semi-transparent” used herein refers to a characteristic of a purse in that items inside of the purse are visible to human eyes. Transparent or semi-transparent purses allow end users to carry personal belongings to most of places including some stadiums that restrict purses or bags to see-through purses or bags. In some embodiments, the transparency is between 10% and 50%. In some embodiments, the transparency is above 50%. In some embodiments, the transparency is above 80%. In some embodiments, the first purse 802 is made of a material including vinyl or the like. In some embodiment, the first purse 802 is made of a clear vinyl plastic or a clear vinyl fabric.

In some embodiments, the first purse 802 includes one or more straps 810 configured for holding the first purse 802, for example by a hand, on an elbow or on a shoulder. The one or more straps can be made of any suitable materials including metal chain, fabric, plastic, leather or any combination thereof. As an example, FIG. 10 depicts two straps made of a combination of metal chain and plastic. The first purse 802 can be of any suitable shape and size. In some embodiments, the first purse 802 is approximately 8 to 10 inches wide, 7 to 9 inches high, and 3 to 4 inches thick.

In some embodiments, the means for locating the personal safety items within the first purse 802 when they are needed constitutes a locator that is suitable for use with a purse, backpack, briefcase or other bag-like device. In some embodiments, the locator includes the key locator or key finder 10, 110 disclosed herein. Alternatively, the locator can be hooks, hangers, grasps, straps or other suitable means.

By way of illustration, FIGS. 8-11 depict a key locator 10 hanging from the open edge 804 of the first purse 802. In some embodiments, the locator (e.g., the key locator 10) is retained in position by a removable fastener 808, such as a removable adhesive tape, sticker or string, to prevent loss of the locator during transportation, distribution, or display. It should be understood that the locator does not necessarily need to be hanging from the open edge of the first purse during transportation, distribution, or display. For example, it can be placed separately from the first purse or inside of the first purse.

As disclosed herein (e.g., FIGS. 1A, 1C), the key locator 10 includes a first member 12 and a second member 14, and the first and second members are engaged to each other. The first member 12 includes a first end portion 12a, a second end portion 12b and a bent interior region 22 intermediate the first end portion and the second portion. The first end portion 12a and the second end portion 12b of the first member 12 are not urged against each other and are configured to allow the bent interior region 22 to hang or clasp an edge 29 (or the open edge 804 in FIG. 8). The second member 14 includes a clasp or a ring 16 for selectively retaining the one or more personal safety items 806.

In some embodiments, the locator includes a decorative ornament 26 fixed on the second end portion 12b of the first member 12. When the locator hangs from the open edge 804 of the first purse 802, the decorative ornament 26 is placed outside of the first purse 802. The decorative ornament 26 enhances the appearance of the first purse 802. In addition, the decorative ornament 26 outside of the purse indicates the location of the locator, making it easier to locate the locator.

The personal safety items 806 can be any type of items or commodities and can be in any suitable configuration as long as they can be placed inside of the first purse and/or can be attached to the locator. For instance, in some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 includes a drink safety tester 806-3 for testing whether a beverage (e.g., water, wine, soda) is safe to drink. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester 806-3 detects whether a beverage contains gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and ketamine, the most common drugs used in drink spiking GHB and ketamine are difficult to notice in a drink because they are colorless, odorless and tasteless. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester 806-3 is in the form of a coaster or a test strip. In some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 include a number of drink safety testers for testing the same drug or different types of drugs. In some embodiments, the drink safety tester includes a composition that changes to a predetermined color when contacted with a beverage containing GHB or Ketamine.

In some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 include a safety alarm 806-2 for drawing attention to a crisis. In an embodiment, the safety alarm 806-2 is a panic alarm for use in a panic situation or a medical alarm for use in a medical emergency such as a heart attack, stroke, accident, overdose and the like. In another embodiment, the safety alarm 806-2 is an integrated device in which the panic alarm and the medical alarm are integrated together into a single unit. In some embodiments, the safety alarm 806-2 has other functions, for instance, including an LED flashlight or a keychain so that the safety alarm 806-2 can be easily attached to the locator.

In some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 include a self-defense device for warding off an attacker. For instance, in an embodiment, the personal safety items 806 include a pepper spray 806-1.

In some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 include other products or commodities that one would like to carry around for emergency use or due to personal preferences. For instance, in an embodiment, the personal safety items 806 include allergy medicines.

In some embodiments, the personal safety items 806 include one or more drink safety testers, a safety alarm, a self-defense device or any combination of these or other additional items.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the personal safety kit 800 of the invention further includes a second purse 902. The second purse 902 is configured to be placed inside of the first purse 802 for accommodating additional items or organizing items. The second purse 902 is generally but not necessarily smaller than the first purse 802. In some embodiments, the second purse 902 is 6 to 9 inches wide, 5 to 8 inches high, and 1 to 3 inches thick. In some embodiments, the second purse 902 is opaque to provide privacy. The term “opaque” used herein refers to a characteristic of a purse in that items inside of the purse are not visible to human eyes.

Sixth Embodiment

Turning now to FIG. 12, there depicts a method 1200 for using a personal safety kit of the invention in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure. In FIG. 12, optional steps are enclosed in dashed boxes. To use a personal safety kit of the present disclosure, one first removes the removable fastener to release the locator (1202). In more detail, in some embodiments in which the locator is retained in position by a removable fastener such as an adhesive tape, sticker or string, one needs to remove the removable fastener (1202) to release the locator prior to the first use of the personal safety kit.

One then retrieves the locator and at least one personal safety item in the one or more personal safety items from the personal safety kit (1204). One then attaches the at least one personal safety item to the clasp or the ring of the locator (1210). Afterwards, one places the at least one personal safety item in the first purse and hangs the locator on the open edge of the first purse (1214). One can also hang the locator on the open edge of the first purse and then place the at least one personal safety item in the first purse.

With one or more personal safety items attached to the locator and the locator hanging on the open edge of the first purse, retrieval of the personal safety items for use (1216) is simple, easy and quick. For example, one can grab the locator and pull the locator along with the personal safety items out of the first purse. Alternatively, since a part of the locator (e.g., the second end portion 12b of the first member 12, or the decorative ornament 26) is outside of the first purse and visible from the outside, one can easily locate the locator and therefore the personal safety items, and then take out the personal safety items. As such, the personal safety kit of the present disclosure eliminates the need for randomly searching the inside of the purse and reduces the time for retrieving the desired item(s). The personal safety kit of the present disclosure is in particular advantageous when a safety and alarm item is needed in an emergency or crisis situation.

After retrieval or use of the desired personal safety item, one can place the personal safety items back to inside of the first purse and/or re-hang the locator on the open edge of the first purse for next use.

As shown in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, one or more personal safety items are wrapped, packed, or embedded in package(s). In such embodiments, the method further includes unwrapping (1206) the personal safety item(s) from the package(s) prior to attaching the personal safety item(s) to the clasp or the ring of the locator. In some embodiments, instructions are provided with respect to the personal safety item(s) or use of the personal safety item(s). The instructions may be on the package(s) or on the personal safety item(s). In such embodiments, the method further includes reading the instructions (1208), which can be conducted before or after unwrapping personal safety item(s) at step 1206.

In some embodiments, one may want to attach one or more additional items to the clasp or the ring of the locator, such as car keys, house keys, wallets, phone cases, or any other additional items that can be attached to the locator. As an example, FIG. 11 shows a key 1102 and a case 1104 attached to the locator. In such embodiments, the method includes attaching the additional item(s) to the clasp or the ring of the locator (1212).

It should be understood that FIG. 12 is just an example illustrating the use of the personal safety kit of the present invention in a non-exclusive way, and the steps listed in FIG. 12 are not necessarily performed in the order presented. For instance, retrieving the locator and the at least one personal safety item does not need to occur concurrently or consecutively. As an example, one can retrieve the locator and attach an additional personal item such as a key to the locator before retrieving the at least one personal safety item. Alternatively, one can also retrieve the at least one personal safety item after attaching the additional personal item to the locator and re-hang the locator on the open edge of the purse.

Seventh Embodiment

A seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 16. Key locator 510 is similar to key locator 10 discussed above in reference to FIG. 1C, with an exception being that Bluetooth compatible smart tag tracking device 503 is connected to key locator 510 as shown.

In one aspect, referring to FIG. 16, a first end portion 12a of the first member 12 comprises a hook 20 for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member 14. The second member 14 comprises a closed form clasp 16 or ring (not shown) that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key or other type of object. In one such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is rotatably fixed to a u-shaped element 18 of the second member 14, where the u-shaped element 18 is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment (not illustrated), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In another such embodiment, the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. This closed form member could be, for example, a ring, an oval, a start shape, or any other closed form shape. In another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or ring is engaged with a closed form member, where the closed form member is a ring that is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook 20. In still another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with a chain, where the chain is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In yet another such embodiment (not shown), the closed form clasp 16 or second ring is engaged with first interlocking closed form elements in a plurality of interlocking closed form elements, where an interlocking closed form element in the plurality of interlocking closed form elements is substantially permanently and flexibly engaged with the hook. In some such embodiments, a closed form element in the plurality of closed form elements is a ring, an oval, a polygon, or a star-shape.

First member 12 includes a bent interior region 22 and a second end portion 12b. Tracking device housing 504 is preferably rigidly connected to second end portion 12b. Tracking device 503 is contained within housing 504.

FIG. 17 shows a front view of housing 504 with tracking device 503. Housing 504 is preferably fabricated from plastic. In a preferred embodiment decorative housing face 511 is placed on the front of housing 504 to improve its appearance. USB port 512 allows for a USB connection to tracking device 503. Activation button 513 allows for user activation of tracking device 503.

FIG. 18 shows a side view of housing 504 and FIG. 19 shows a rear view of housing 504. As shown in FIG. 19, speaker holes 514 allow for sound generated by tracking device 503 to be more easily heard by a user.

FIG. 20 shows a more detailed view of tracking device 503 and its components. Power supply 520 provides power to the components of tracking device 503. In a preferred embodiment, power supply 520 is a replaceable battery. In another preferred embodiment power supply 520 is a rechargeable battery that can be recharged through USB port 512. Microcontroller 521 includes programming to allow radio wave transmission between tracking device 503 and smart phone 525 (FIG. 21). Bluetooth radio transmission occurs through radio module 522 via antenna 523. In a preferred embodiment, tracking device 503 utilizes Bluetooth LE for more efficient transmission. Speaker 526 emits sound to alert the user of the location of tracking device 503. Activation button 513 interfaces with tracking device 503 via microcontroller 521. In a preferred embodiment a user presses activation button 513 to find the location of smart phone 525, if it is lost or misplaced. The Bluetooth signal will transmit to smart phone 525, causing smart phone 525 to emit a sound and/or vibrate, alerting the user to its location. In another preferred embodiment activation button 513 is utilized as a panic button to cause a loud sound to be emitted from speaker 526 of tracking device 503.

FIG. 21 shows a more detailed view of smart phone 525. Smart phone 525 includes microcontroller 532 with programming that allows a user to operate the smart phone, and download, install and utilize tracking device app 531. RF radio module 533 allows for radio frequency communication with tracking device 503. In a preferred embodiment, smart phone 525 and tracking device 503 communication utilizing Bluetooth LE. Smart phone 525 further includes rechargeable battery 541, ringing device 542, vibration device 543, graphical display 544 and user interface 545.

Examples of Usage of Key Locator with Tracking Device

Tracking device 503 includes RF module 522 and microcontroller 521. The microcontroller is programmed to periodically measure and store the signal strength of the radio frequency communication between tracking device 503 and smart phone 525. The signal strength is compared to previously stored signal strength values. Microcontroller 525 is programmed to transmit an alert to smart phone 525 when the measured signal strength varies from the previously stored values by a predetermined amount. Smart phone 525 includes app 531 to provide an alert to the user via ringing device 542 and/or vibration device 543.

FIG. 22 shows key locator 510 with smart tag tracking device 503 in RF Bluetooth communication with smart phone 525. The user can track the location of tracking device 503 from smart phone 525. A user can attach important items to key locator 510, as explained above. If the user misplaces key locator 510 he can find it via smart phone 525. The user may configure the software app 531 to play an alarm on smart phone 525 if key locator 510 starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert.

Through Bluetooth LE, tracking device 503 can stay in near constant communication with the smart phone 525. It is then easy for smart phone 525 to sound the alarm when the user becomes separated from key locator 510. Tracking device 503 can chirp when the user needs to locate the misplaced or lost item, thereby alerting the user when he has strayed too far from the tracking device. The app can also remind the user where the item was last seen.

It is also possible to use the Bluetooth tracking system in reverse. For example, activation button 513 can be pressed to reverse the location process. For example, if the user has key locator 510 (but not his smart phone) the user can press activation button 510 to cause an alert to sound on the smart phone. The user can then locate the smart phone by listing to the audible alert.

It is also possible to use a crowd sourcing feature to locate the tracked item. The crowd sourcing feature allows a user to locate his tracked item even if the tracked item is outside of Bluetooth range from the user's smart phone. For example, the user will utilize the companion software on his smart phone to flag the Bluetooth tracked item as lost. Then when another user of the same software passes by and picks up the signal from the user's lost device, the user will get a status update based on the new location of the tracker.

FIG. 23 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 23 smart tag tracking device 500 has been removably attached to key locator 10 along with set of keys 600 as shown. The user can track the location of tracking device 500 from smart phone 525. Besides keys 600, a user can attach important items to key locator 10, as explained above. If the user misplaces key locator 10 he can find it via smart phone 525. The user may configure the software app 531 to play an alarm on smart phone 525 if key locator 10 starts getting too far away from the user, thereby giving the user an alert.

Emergency Alert Button

FIG. 24 shows a preferred embodiment that includes emergency alert button 633. In the event of an emergency the user may press button 633. This sends a control signal to microcontroller 521 (FIG. 25), which in turn causes an audible alarm to be emitted from speaker 526. Simultaneously, microcontroller 521 causes Bluetooth radio module 522 to send an RF Bluetooth signal to smart phone 525. In a preferred embodiment, smart phone 525 is programmed to receive the signal and to emit an audible alarm while also calling emergency responders and calling the user's relatives to alert them of the user's emergency condition.

Tracking Device Alerts when Smart Phone Rings

It is very common for a user to place her smart phone inside of a purse or bag for carrying and storage. For example, FIG. 26 shows smart phone 525 inside purse 673. As shown in FIG. 26, smart phone 525 is covered over by other items 933 stored in the purse. This makes it difficult for the user to hear smart phone 525 if smart phone 525 is making a sound or vibrating upon receiving a call or a text.

In a preferred embodiment, microcontroller 532 (FIG. 21) of smart phone 525 is programmed to transmit a control signal via Bluetooth transmission to tracking device 503 of key locator 510. Upon receiving the control signal, microcontroller 521 (FIG. 25) of tracking device 503 is programmed to transmit a signal to speaker 526 causing it to emit an audible sound alerting the user to the phone call or text.

REFERENCES CITED AND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A key locator with tracking capability, comprising:

a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a bent first end portion and a second end portion; and

b) a second member configured for selectively retaining at least one key;

wherein said bent first end portion and said second end portion are opposed to each other; said bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate said bent first end portion and said second end portion thereby forming an interior of the key locator; said bent first end portion and said second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow said bent center region to hang from an edge; said bent first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly interlocks with the second member; and

c) a tracking device connected to said key locator, said tracking device in radio frequency communication with a smart phone.

2. The key locator of claim 1, wherein said radio frequency communication is Bluetooth radio frequency communication.

3. The key locator of claim 1, wherein said radio frequency communication is Bluetooth Low Energy radio frequency communication.

4. The key locator as in claim 1, wherein said tracking device comprises: wherein said smart phone comprises programming to alert a user when said alert is received.

a) an RF module,

b) a microcontroller programmed to periodically measure and store the signal strength of said radio frequency communication, compare the signal strength to previously stored values, and transmit an alert to said smart phone when said signal strength varies from said stored values by a predetermined amount; and

5. The key locator as in claim 1, wherein said tracking device is rigidly connected to said key locator at said second end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member.

6. The key locator as in claim 1 wherein said tracking device is removably connected to said key locator.

7. The key locator of claim 1, wherein the edge is an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse.

8. The key locator of claim 5, wherein the bag-like purse is a purse, a backpack, or a briefcase.

9. The key locator of claim 1, wherein the planar bent center region is u-shaped.

10. The key locator as in claim 1, wherein said tracking device is powered by a rechargeable battery.

11. The key locator as in claim 1, wherein said tracking device further comprises an emergency alert button and is programmed to provide an alert signal upon pressing of said emergency alert button.

12. The key locator as in claim 1, wherein said tracking device is programmed to provide and audible alert when said smart phone receives a call or text message.

13. A key locator key locator with tracking capability, comprising:

a) a bent rod-shaped first member having a first end portion and a second end portion; and

b) a second member comprising a closed form clasp that is configured for selectively retaining at least one key; wherein

said first end portion and said second end portion are opposed to each other;

said bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate said first end portion and said second end portion thereby forming an interior of the key locator;

said first end portion and said second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow said planar bent center region to hang from an edge;

said first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member is configured for substantially permanently and flexibly engaging with the second member; and

c) a tracking device connected to said key locator, said tracking device in radio frequency communication with a smart phone.

14. The key locator of claim 10, wherein said radio frequency communication is Bluetooth radio frequency communication.

15. The key locator of claim 10, wherein said radio frequency communication is Bluetooth Low Energy radio frequency communication.

16. The key locator as in claim 10, wherein said tracking device comprises: wherein said smart phone comprises programming to alert a user when said alert is received.

a) an RF module,

b) a microcontroller programmed to periodically measure and store the signal strength of said radio frequency communication, compare the signal strength to previously stored values, and transmit an alert to said smart phone when said signal strength varies from said stored values by a predetermined amount; and

17. The key locator as in claim 10, wherein said tracking device is rigidly connected to said key locator.

18. The key locator as in claim 10 wherein said tracking device is removably connected to said key locator.

19. A method comprising the steps of:

a) retaining at least one key by a second member of an apparatus that comprises at least said second member and a bent rod-shaped first member and wherein said apparatus comprises a tracking device for transmitting and receiving tracking information via radio frequency, wherein the second member is configured for selectively retaining at least one key, wherein (i) said bent rod-shaped first member of said apparatus has a bent first end portion and a second end portion, wherein said bent first end portion and said second end portion are opposed to each other, (ii) said bent rod-shaped first member incorporates a planar bent center region intermediate said bent first end portion and said second end portion thereby forming an interior of the apparatus, wherein said bent first end portion and said second end portion are not urged against each other and are configured to allow said bent center region to hang from an upper edge of a side panel of a bag-like purse, (iii) said bent first end portion of said bent rod-shaped first member substantially permanently and flexibly interlocks with said second member, and

b) hanging the apparatus from said upper edge of said side panel of said bag-like purse with the bent center region overhanging the side panel so that said second end portion is exposed;

c) retrieving said bent rod-shaped first member of said apparatus from said upper edge such that, when said bent rod-shaped first member is retrieved from the upper edge, the at least one key retained by the second member is necessarily retrieved; and

d) establishing radio frequency communication between said tracking device and a smart phone.