WO2015038201A1

WO2015038201A1 - Multi-purpose key for security devices

Info

Publication number: WO2015038201A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/040635
Authority: WO
Inventors: James K. Sankey; Jeffrey A. GRANT; Gary A. TAYLOR
Original assignee: Invue Security Products Inc.
Priority date: 2013-06-04
Filing date: 2014-06-03
Publication date: 2015-03-19

Abstract

A key for a security device is provided. The key may include a housing and an actuation member operably engaged with the housing. The key may also include a programmable and/or a non-programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a security device. The actuation member may be configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device. The actuation member is configured to be locked upon expiration of a predetermined period of time such that the actuation member is incapable of actuating the programmable and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device.

Description

MULTI-PURPOSE KEY FOR SECURITY DEVICES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/830,879 filed on June 4, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a key for security devices of the type commonly used to display an item of merchandise vulnerable to theft.

[0003] It is common practice for retailers to display relatively small, relatively expensive items of merchandise on a security device, such as a display hook or a display fixture, within security packaging commonly referred to as a "safer", or otherwise on a display surface. The security device or safer displays an item of merchandise so that a potential purchaser may examine the item when deciding whether to purchase the item. The small size and relative expense of the item, however, makes the item an attractive target for shoplifters. A shoplifter may attempt to detach the item from the security device, or alternatively, may attempt to remove the security device from the display area along with the merchandise. Items of merchandise may also be secured using a display stand to allow users to sample the item for potential purchase. In some instances, the security device is secured to a display support using a lock operated by a key, for example, a mechanical lock. In other instances, the security device is secured to the display support using a lock operated by an electronic key to arm and disarm the security device.

[0004] However, retailers are required to employ multiple keys for different types of locks. No known key exists that is available to retailers for use with both mechanical and electrical locks. In addition, keys are susceptible to theft and unauthorized use. Accordingly, there exists an unresolved need for a key capable of cooperating with both mechanical and electronic locks. There exists a further need for a multi-purpose key for a security device.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to keys for security devices. In one embodiment, a key includes a housing and an actuation member operably engaged with the housing. The key also includes a non-programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a mechanical lock of a first security device. The key further includes a programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a second security device. The non-programmable portion is operably engaged with the programmable portion such that actuation of the actuation member is configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the first or second security device, respectively.

[0006] In another embodiment, a key includes a housing and an actuation member operably engaged with the housing. The key also includes a programmable portion and a nonprogrammable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a security device. The actuation member is configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device. In addition, the actuation member is configured to be locked upon expiration of a predetermined period of time such that the actuation member is incapable of actuating the programmable and/or the nonprogrammable portion for cooperation with the security device.

[0007] A method for operating a key is provided in another embodiment. The method includes providing a key including a housing and an actuation member operably engaged with the housing. The key also includes a non-programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a mechanical lock of a first security device and a programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a second security device. The first and second security devices may be different. The method further includes actuating the actuation member to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the first or second security device, respectively.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a key in an actuated configuration according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the key shown in FIG. 1 in a de-actuated configuration.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a disassembled view of a key according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a disassembled view of a key according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a key and a programming station according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 6 is an elevation view of a key according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 7 is another elevation view of the key shown in FIG. 7.

[0015] FIG. 8 is another elevation view of the key shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a key according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a security device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a security device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, the exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0021] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawing figures wherein identical reference numerals denote the same or similar elements throughout the various views. Referring now to the accompanying drawing figures, one or more embodiments of a key 10 for cooperating with a security device 50 are shown. The security device 50 may be one of the type commonly used to display one or more items of merchandise 52 within a display area of a retail store. By way of example, and not by limitation, the security device 50 is a merchandise display hook for displaying relatively, small, expensive consumer products, for example compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), battery packs, etc., on a display support 54 (see, e.g., FIG. 10). The display support 54 could be any suitable support, such as wire grid, horizontal bar rack, slatwall (also known as slatboard), wall, table, desk, countertop or other secure structure. Other examples of a security device 50 according to the present invention without limitation include merchandise display fixtures, such as a cabinet (see, e.g., FIG. 11), and merchandise safers for storing one or more items of merchandise 52. In some embodiments, the security device 50 may be a display module, a puck, or an alarm that is mountable to a display surface, support, or the like, for displaying an item of merchandise (see, e.g., FIG. 12). The item of merchandise 52 may be a display model or an operational sample of electronic merchandise, such as mobile phones, portable computers (e.g., notebooks, laptops, tablets, etc.), e-readers, media players, and the like, for a customer to examine before making a decision to purchase the item. The item of merchandise 52 may be displayed in a manner that permits a prospective purchaser to evaluate the operation and features of the merchandise, while protecting the merchandise from a potential thief. In some example embodiments, the security devices 50 are similar to the Locking Hooks, Smart Locks, and PODs manufactured by InVue Security Products Inc., while the keys 10 may also be similar to those manufactured by InVue Security Products Inc., such as the OM, S3, Q4, IR, IR2, and IR2-S keys.

[0022] In one embodiment, a key 10 for a security device is provided and generally includes a housing 12 and an actuation member 14 operably engaged with the housing (see, e.g., FIGS. 1- 2). For example, the actuation member 14 may be at least partially disposed within the housing 12. The key 10 further includes a programmable portion 16 and/or a non-programmable portion 18 operably engaged with the actuation member 14 and configured to cooperate with a security device 50. In some embodiments, the non-programmable portion 18 comprises a magnet, while the programmable portion 16 comprises wireless communication capability for communicating with the security device 50. The actuation member 14 may be configured to move the programmable portion 16 and/or the non-programmable portion 18 for cooperation with the security device 50, and the actuation member 14 may be configured to be locked upon expiration of a predetermined period of time such that the actuation member is unable to actuate the programmable 16 and/or the non-programmable 18 portion for cooperating with the security device 50. Thus, upon expiration of a particular period of time, the key 10 is unable to be used to lock/arm or unlock/disarm a security device 50. In this way, stolen keys 10 will be rendered useless after a predetermined period of time. In addition, the key 10 can be used interchangeably with different types of security devices 50 such that a user is only required to carry one key. Thus, the key 10 may be "multi-purpose" in that the key may be used for different lock types (e.g., mechanical locking hooks, mechanical locks, electronic locks, display modules, etc.). [0023] In other embodiments, the non-programmable portion 18 is operably engaged with the actuation member 14 and is configured to cooperate with a mechanical lock of a first security device 50, while the programmable portion 16 is operably engaged with the actuation member and is configured to cooperate with a second security device, wherein the first and second security device may be the same or different devices. For example, the non-programmable portion 18 may be used to cooperate with a first type of security device 50, while the programmable portion 16 may be used to cooperate with a second, different type of security device. The non-programmable portion 18 may be operably engaged with the programmable portion 16 such that actuation of the actuation member 14 is configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the first or second security device 50, respectively. In some cases, the actuation member 14 is configured to actuate both of the programmable 16 and the non-programmable 18 portions.

[0024] In some embodiments, the actuation member 14 is configured to lock, or otherwise render inoperable, the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions. Thus, the actuation member 14 may prevent the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions from moving relative to the housing 12 or otherwise being actuated. In other embodiments, the key 10 may further include a separate locking mechanism 19 that is coupled to the actuation member 14 (see, e.g., FIG. 1). Thus, the locking mechanism 19 may be configured to engage the actuation member 14 to prevent actuation thereof.

[0025] The housing 12 may be any suitable housing configured to at least partially receive the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions, as well as the actuation member 14, therein. For example, the housing 12 may be a single piece design or may include a plurality of components joined into a unitary member (e.g., via snap fit, fasteners, adhesive, and/or molding). In one example, the housing 12 includes two halves that are joined together to define an internal cavity 20 (see, e.g., FIG. 3). The housing 12 may define the internal cavity 20 for accommodating various components, including the non-programmable 18 and programmable portions 16, the actuation member 14, and/or the locking mechanism 19. The housing 12 may also house various other components, such as a controller, a logic control circuit, or a printed circuit board, a battery 21, and/or an EAS tag. The housing 12 may also be coupled to various other optional components, such as a keychain, lanyard, or the like 24. The housing 12 may be a variety of sizes and configurations, and may be suitably sized for placement within a user's pocket or on a key chain. The housing may include one or more openings 26 for accommodating the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions, such as for allowing the non- programmable and/or programmable portions to be moved into and out of the housing 12. In one embodiment, the housing 12 may include a single opening 26 for accommodating both of the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions (see, e.g., FIG. 3), while in another embodiment, the non-programmable and programmable portions may be disposed within independent openings of the housing (see, e.g., FIG. 4). Similarly, the housing 12 may include an opening 28 or channel defined therein for receiving the actuation member 14. For instance, the actuation member 14 may be a manually operated button that is operable by the user and is operably engaged with the non-programmable 18 and/or programmable 16 portion.

[0026] The actuation member 14 may be any device, mechanism, or feature that is configured to actuate the programmable 18 and/or non-programmable 16 portions. For example, the actuation member 14 may be a manually actuated member, such as a push button (see, e.g., FIG. 9), sliding mechanism (see, e.g., FIG. 1), or the like. Alternatively, the actuation member 14 may be an automatically actuated member, such as an actuation member driven by a motor 22 (see, e.g., FIG. 3). In this regard, the actuation member 14 may be a linear actuator 30 driven by a motor 22. The automatic actuation may occur, for example, in response to a user depressing the actuation member 14 (e.g., a button) or activating a switch 32. In one embodiment, the actuation member 14 is an electro-mechanical switch 32 such that engagement of the switch with the security device 50 actuates the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 16 portions. For instance, the switch 32 could be a plunger or pressure switch that is configured to engage the security device 50 thereby actuating the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions. The actuation member 14 may be in communication with a logic control circuit, controller, or PCB 34 of the key for actuating the actuation member in response to a signal from the logic control circuit, controller, or PCB (see, e.g., FIG. 4).

[0027] Similar to the actuation member 14, the locking mechanism 19 may be a mechanical and/or an electrical locking mechanism. Thus, as used herein, the term "locking mechanism" should be broadly construed to include any device, mechanism, or feature that physically locks, secures or protects the key 10 from further use. For example, the locking mechanism 19 could be a physical barrier that prevents the actuation member 14, programmable portion 16, and/or nonprogrammable portion 18 from being displaced relative to the housing 12 or otherwise actuated to lock/arm or unlock/disarm a security device 50. In one example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the locking mechanism 19 may be actuated to physically engage the actuation member 14 to prevent the actuation member from sliding relative to the housing 12. Or, the locking mechanism 19 may be an electrically or an electro-mechanically controlled mechanism, such as a motor driven mechanism that is actuated to prevent the actuation member 14, the programmable portion 16, and/or the non-programmable portion 18 from being displaced or otherwise operated. For example, FIG. 3 shows that the key may include a linear actuator 30 that may function as a locking mechanism to prevent the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions from being actuated otherwise extended from the housing 12. Alternatively, the locking mechanism 19 could render the actuation member 14 inoperable such that the actuation member is incapable of being actuated. The locking mechanism 19 may be in communication with a logic control circuit, controller, or PCB 34 of the key 10 such that the locking mechanism is configured to be actuated to lock or unlock the actuation member 14 in response to a signal from the logic control circuit, controller, or PCB.

[0028] In some cases, the actuation member 14 and the locking mechanism 19 may be separate components, while in other cases the actuation member and the locking mechanism may be integrated into a single component or otherwise operably engaged with one another. For example, where the actuation member 14 is a motor driven actuator, the locking mechanism 19 may also be operated via the motor driven actuator such that actuation of the motor in one direction actuates the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions while actuation of the motor 32 in an opposite direction or de-actuation of the motor locks the programmable and/or non-programmable portions.

[0029] The key 10 may include a programmable portion 16 and/or non-programmable portion 18. For example, the non-programmable portion 18 may comprise a magnet configured to cooperate with a security device 50 having a lock including a magnet or magnetically attractable material. The non-programmable portion 18 may include a particular size and shape for cooperating with a complementary size and shape of the security device 50. In one embodiment, the non-programmable portion 18 includes a generally D-shaped magnet configured to engage a complementary D-shaped opening 56 defined in the security device for unlocking a mechanical lock 64 (see, e.g., FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the security device 50 includes locks similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,703,308 entitled DISPLAY HOOK ASSEMBLY HAVING A SECURE FREE END and U.S. Patent No. 8,341 ,987 entitled SECURITY DEVICE FOR ATTACHING A PEG HOOK TO A PEG SUPPORT, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0030] The programmable portion 16 may be configured to cooperate with a security device 50 for arming and disarming a monitoring circuit 58 that is in electrical communication with the security device (see, e.g., FIG. 12). For example, the programmable portion 16 may be configured for various forms of wireless communication with a security device 50, such as optical (e.g., infrared), acoustical (e.g. ultrasonic), radiofrequency (RF), or magnetic pulse. In one embodiment, the energy signal emitted by the programmable portion 16 is configured to cooperate with an infrared sensor of the type shown and described in United States Patent No. 7,737,844 entitled PROGRAMMING STATION FOR A SECURITY SYSTEM FOR PROTECTING MERCHANDISE, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In one embodiment, data is transferred from the key 10 to the security device 50 by wireless communication, such as by infrared (IR) optical transmission, as shown and described in United States Patent No. 7,737,843 entitled PROGRAMMABLE ALARM MODULE AND SYSTEM FOR PROTECTING MERCHANDISE, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0031] In some embodiments, the programmable portion 16 may be programmed with a security code and the security device 50 may be programmed with the same security code, for example by the key or by the same security device that programmed the key. Thereafter, the key 10 may be positioned within or proximate to a transfer port 60 of the security device 50, and the actuation member 14 may be depressed to activate communication of the security code between the key and the security device. In one example, the electronics of the key 10 verify that the security device 50 has a security code, and the electronics (e.g., a printed circuit board) disposed within the security device then query the key for its security code. The security code may be wirelessly communicated between the security device 50 and the key 10 by infrared (IR) optical transmission. Alternatively, the security code may be transmitted and received by electrical contacts, acoustic transmission (e.g., RF signals) or magnetic induction.

[0032] In the event that the security code of the key 10 matches the security code of the security device 50, the key may then be permitted to transfer electrical power to the security device, for example, to operate a lock mechanism of the security device. The key 10 may transfer electrical power to the security device 50 in any suitable manner, such as by electrical contacts, acoustical transmission (e.g. RF signals) or magnetic induction. Further discussion regarding data and electrical communication between an electronic key 10 and a security device 50 may be found, for example, in U.S. Publication No. 2012/0047972 entitled Electronic Key for Merchandise Security Device, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. It is understood that in other embodiments, the key 10 may only transfer a wireless signal to arm disarm the security device 50 and does not transfer electrical power to the security device.

[0033] The key 10 may be programmed with a security code, for example, a Security Disarm Code (SDC). The key 10 and the security device 50 may each be pre-programmed with the same SDC into a respective permanent memory. Alternatively, the key 10 may first be programmed with the SDC by a programming station 62 and the security device 50 may subsequently be programmed with the same SDC by the programming station or by the key (see, e.g., FIG. 5). The key 10 may be provisioned with a single -use (i.e., non-rechargeable) internal power source, such as a conventional or extended-life battery. Alternatively, the key 10 may be provisioned with a multiple-use (i.e., rechargeable) internal power source, such as a conventional capacitor or rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the key 10 may be pre-programmed with a security code or may be self-programming in other embodiments.

[0034] In one embodiment, the key 10 may include a time-out function, as explained in further detail below. More particularly, the ability of the actuation member 14 to actuate the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions may be deactivated after a predetermined time period. By way of example, the key 10 may include a logic control circuit that is configured to be deactivated after about six to twelve hours (e.g., about eight hours) from the time the key was programmed or last refreshed by a programming station. In this manner, an authorized sales associate typically must program or refresh the key 10 assigned to him or her at the beginning of each work shift. Thus, the key 10 would have to be programmed or refreshed with the SDC by a programming station, which is typically monitored or maintained at a secure location, in order to reactivate the logic control circuit of the key.

[0035] The programmable portion 16 and the non-programmable portion 18 may be independent of one another (see, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 6-8) or operably engaged with one another (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3). In this regard, the programmable portion 16 and the nonprogrammable portion 18 may be independently actuated or actuated simultaneously. In one embodiment, the programmable portion 16 and the non -programmable portion 18 are operably engaged with one another. In particular, the non-programmable portion 18 may be, for example, a magnet that is engaged with the programmable portion 16 (see, e.g., FIG. 1). In one illustrated embodiment, the magnet is a ring magnet that may at least partially encircle the programmable portion. Thus, the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions may be moved in unison with respect to the housing 12. Moreover, in one embodiment, actuation of the actuation member 14 actuates both of the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions simultaneously. For instance, where the actuation member 14 is a sliding or push button, actuating the actuation member causes both the non-programmable 18 and programmable 16 portions to be extended out of the housing 12 such that the non-programmable portion is able to engage a mechanical lock (e.g., a mechanical lock associated with the locking hook shown in FIG. 10) and the programmable portion emits a signal for arming or disarming a monitoring circuit 58, an alarm, or the like (e.g., a monitoring circuit associated with the display module shown in FIG. 12). Where the signal is a wireless signal, such as an IR signal, the signal may have no effect on a mechanical lock, but would be operable to arm/disarm an electrical or electro-mechanical lock.

[0036] As discussed above, the actuation member 14 may be configured to move the nonprogrammable portion 18 and/or the programmable portion 16 relative to the housing 12. In one embodiment, the actuation member 14 comprises a slide assembly configured for sliding movement of the non-programmable portion 18 and/or the programmable portion 16 within the interior cavity 20. For instance, the actuation member 14 may include a finger operated button that is configured to slide within an opening 28 or channel defined in the housing 12 (see, e.g., FIG. 1). The actuation member 14 may be operably coupled to the logic control circuit, controller, or PCB of the key 10 such that movement of the key in one direction actuates the programmable portion 16. In addition, movement of the actuation member 14 extends the nonprogrammable portion 18 outwardly of the housing 12. The sliding mechanism may be configured to automatically retract the non-programmable portion 18 and/or the programmable portion 16 into the housing 12, such as with a biasing member (e.g., a spring). Alternatively, the user of the key 10 may manually retract the non-programmable portion 18 and/or the programmable portion 16 into the housing 12 by moving the button in an opposite direction.

[0037] As also discussed above, the key 10 may be configured to time out after a predetermined period of time. In other words, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the actuation member 14 is rendered inoperable for actuating the non-programmable 18 and/or programmable 16 portions. For example, where the actuation member 14 is manually operated, the actuation member may be unable to be moved with respect to the housing 12 due to engagement with a locking mechanism 19. Similarly, where the actuation member 14 is automatically actuated (e.g., electrically or electro-mechanically operated), the actuation member may be self-locking to prevent the actuation member from being operated or otherwise locking/unlocking or arming/disarming a security device 50. Thus, the key 10 would have to be reprogrammed or refreshed with an appropriated security authorization in order to reactivate the key so that the actuation member 14 is again able to be actuated. In one embodiment, the key 10 may be operable for a predetermined period of time, and the actuation member 14 may be used for any number of authorized uses within this time period. In the instance where the actuation member 14 is electronically or electro-mechanically driven (e.g., via a motor 22), the key 10 may be configured to determine the battery level of the key to ensure that enough power is available to retract the non-programmable 18 and/or programmable 16 portions within the 12 housing to prevent unauthorized use and ensure that the programmable and/or programmable portions are inaccessible.

[0038] In one embodiment, the actuation member 14 may be configured to automatically actuate the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions for a predetermined period of time. For instance, when the actuation member 14 is actuated, the programmable 16 and/or nonprogrammable 18 portions may be actuated for a limited amount of time to allow a user to lock/unlock or arm/disarm a security device 50. According to various examples, the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions may be actuated for about 2 seconds or less, about 3 seconds or less, about 4 seconds or less, about 5 seconds or less, or about 10 seconds or less. Upon the predetermined period of time elapsing, the actuation member 14 may automatically retract the programmable 16 and/or non-programmable 18 portions within the housing 12 or otherwise render the programmable and/or non-programmable portions inoperable.

[0039] In another embodiment illustrated, the key 10 may include a pivot mechanism 36 (see, e.g., FIGS. 6-8). In this regard, the key 10 may include a programmable portion 16 at one end of the key and a non-programmable portion 18 at an opposite end of the key. The pivot mechanism 36 is configured such that the programmable 16 and non-programmable 18 portions may pivot about an axis. As such, a user of the key 10 may readily pivot the key about the pivot mechanism 36 to access the programmable 16 or non-programmable 18 portion depending on the particular type of security device 50 to lock/unlock or arm/disarm. In one embodiment, the pivot mechanism 36 may be a U-shaped member having a pair of arms 38 having free ends 40, wherein the pivot axis is defined proximate the free ends of the U-shaped member. The U-shaped member may be of a sufficient size such that the programmable 16 and non-programmable 18 portions may rotate between the arms 38 of the U-shaped member.

[0040] Embodiments of the key 10 may also be configured to limit tampering or unauthorized use of the key. For example, the key 10 may include a shroud 42 that projects from the housing 12 that is configured to prevent the non-programmable 18 and/or programmable 16 portions from being tampered with when extended (see, e.g., FIG. 9). In one embodiment, the shroud 42 extends outwardly from the housing 12 and is configured to surround a portion of the non-programmable 18 and/or programmable 16 portions. Thus, should an unauthorized user attempt to glue, tape, or otherwise tamper with the key 10 to attempt to prevent the nonprogrammable 18 and/or programmable 16 portions from being retracted into the housing 12, the shroud limits the ability to do so.

[0041] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of a key for a security device or security packaging of the type commonly used to display an item of merchandise. Embodiments of a merchandise display security device have been shown and described herein for purposes of illustration. Those of ordinary skill in the art, however, will readily understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A key for a security device, comprising:

a housing;

an actuation member operably engaged with the housing;

a non-programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a mechanical lock of a first security device; and

a programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a second security device,

wherein the non-programmable portion is operably engaged with the programmable portion such that actuation of the actuation member is configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the first or second security device, respectively.

2. The key of Claim 1, wherein the programmable portion is operable for arming and/or disarming a monitoring circuit that is in electrical communication with the second security device.

3. The key of Claim 1, wherein the non-programmable portion is operable for unlocking the mechanical lock.

4. The key of Claim 3, wherein the first security device or an item of merchandise is locked to a display support when the mechanical lock is locked and the first security device or the item of merchandise is removable from the display support when the mechanical lock is unlocked.

5. The key of Claim 1, wherein the housing defines an interior cavity for at least partially housing the non-programmable portion and the programmable portion, and wherein the nonprogrammable portion and the programmable portion are movable relative to the housing in response to movement of the actuation member.

6. The key of Claim 5, wherein the actuation member is configured to slide the nonprogrammable portion and the programmable portion relative to the housing.

7. The key of Claim 1 , wherein the non-programmable portion comprises a magnet.

8. The key of Claim 7, wherein the magnet at least partially encircles the programmable portion.

9. The key of Claim 8, wherein the magnet comprises a ring magnet.

10. The key of Claim 1, wherein the programmable portion is configured to wirelessly communicate a security code to the second security device.

11. The key of Claim 1 , wherein the actuation member is movable relative to the housing.

12. The key of Claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to lock the actuation member upon expiration of a predetermined period of time.

13. The key of Claim 1, wherein the first and second security devices are different, and wherein the non-programmable portion and programmable portion are configured to independently cooperate with respective first and second security devices.

14. The key of Claim 1, wherein the actuation member is at least partially disposed within the housing.

15. A key for a security device, comprising:

a housing;

an actuation member operably engaged with the housing; and

a programmable portion and a non-programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a security device;

wherein the actuation member is configured to actuate the programmable portion and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device, and

wherein the actuation member is configured to be locked upon expiration of a predetermined period of time such that the actuation member is incapable of actuating the programmable and/or the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device.

16. The key of Claim 15, wherein the actuation member is movable with respect to the housing.

17. The key of Claim 15, wherein the actuation member is configured to be manually actuated.

18. The key of Claim 15, wherein the actuation member is configured to be automatically actuated.

19. The key of Claim 15, wherein the non-programmable portion is operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a mechanical lock of a first security device.

20. The key of Claim 19, wherein the programmable portion is operably engaged with the actuation member and is configured to cooperate with a second security device different than the first security device.

21. The key of Claim 15, wherein the actuation member is configured to move the programmable portion and the non-programmable portion for cooperation with the security device, and wherein the actuation member is configured to be locked such that the actuation member is incapable of moving the programmable portion and the non-programmable portion.

22. The key of Claim 15, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to lock the actuation member upon expiration of the predetermined period of time.

23. A method for operating a key for a security device, the method comprising:

providing a key comprising:

a housing;

an actuation member operably engaged with the housing;

a programmable portion operably engaged with the actuation member and configured to cooperate with a second security device different than the first security device; and

actuating the actuation member to actuate the programmable portion and/or the nonprogrammable portion for cooperation with the first or second security device, respectively.