Security identification tag

#The present invention relates to the field of identification tags and, more particularly, to the area of identification tags which cannot be removed without destruction or evidence of tampering.

#Identification tags come in many forms. These have included tags in the form of labels which are applied directly to an item by an adhesive and tags which can be hung on an item having an opening, such as a handle on a piece of luggage. Currently, “hang tag” type identification tags used on such items as luggage comprise a paper, plastic coated, plastic or tag made of another material which is attached by a string, chain or strap to the handle or other opening on a piece of luggage. However, these tags can be easily removed from the luggage and provide no security to the luggage, serving the sole function of identification.

#It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an identification tag which not only provides identification of an item but also provides security through the visual indication of removal or tampering.

#The following drawings, in which like reference characters indicate like parts, are intended only to illustrate the preferred embodiments of the invention without limiting the invention in any manner whatsoever, wherein:

#FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of the invention with both the body and the label in their open configurations.

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 in its closed configuration with the label attached, i.e., in its closed configuration.

#As shown in the drawings, the present invention is directed to a security identification tag comprising an elongated body 2 and a label 4. The elongated body 2 comprises a leading end 6 and a second end 8 with at least one opening 10 through which the leading end 6 can pass, the at least one opening 10 being located at a point between the leading end 6 and the second end 8. The elongated body 2 further comprises an elongated aperture 12 for receiving at least a portion of the label 4, said label 4 being capable of receiving identification information.

#The security identification tag of the present invention provides a secure identification wherein the device, once properly attached in its closed configuration, cannot be removed without the visual indication apparent to the person who filled out or otherwise marked the label 4. Thus, a tamper evident closure is created.

#In its most preferred embodiment, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the elongated body 2 has a plurality of openings 10 and 10a for receiving the leading end 6 of the elongated body 2. Additionally, the elongated aperture 12 is located in an area associated generally with the leading end 6 of the elongated body 2. In this embodiment, the plurality of openings 10 end 10a are located in an area associated with the second end 8 of the body 2.