JP2016540966A - Temperature sensor for retail environment - Google Patents

Abstract

A system and method for monitoring temperature in a retail environment. The method includes associating a temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with the product and monitoring the temperature at the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label. When the monitored temperature is outside the predetermined range of the associated product, an alert is generated and sent to the system user. The temperature is also stored for each product and zone monitored for further consideration. The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label includes a temperature sensor incorporated into the electronic shelf label, is installed in a retail environment with a temperature sensitive product, is connected to a low voltage power source, and communicates with an area controller.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application No. 14 / 217,902, filed March 18, 2014, and is filed on April 28, 2014. This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 300,689, filed June 10, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of 14 / 262,927. This application claims the priority of US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 894,032, filed on Oct. 22, 2013. The entirety of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

  The present disclosure relates generally to temperature monitoring. More particularly, the present disclosure relates generally to temperature sensors that are incorporated into electronic shelf labels for use in retail environments.

  Today, many products sold from retail stores to consumers are temperature sensitive. Most commonly, these products need to remain refrigerated while placed on retail shelves and awaiting purchase, otherwise there is a risk of corruption. Examples include meat and seafood, frozen products, and dairy products, to name a few.

  Cooling product decay is a major concern for retailers as it presents public health risks, can cause economic losses and compromise customer loyalty. For these reasons, retailers often collect temperature data from their cooled or refrigerated shelf units. This temperature data is generally collected manually by store employees who regularly inspect thermometers or other temperature sensors in a chilled or refrigerated shelf unit. In some cases, a retail refrigeration unit manufacturer or setter includes a temperature monitor as part of the unit's control system.

  Temperature sensors available to retailers include simple thermometers, battery powered sensors, and wired sensors that use standard (120V / 60Hz) power. Each of these sensors has drawbacks. In particular, battery powered sensors are problematic due to their limited battery life, limited power output, and high labor and material costs for replacing batteries. Wired sensors are expensive to install, must comply with national and local electrical regulations, and may involve additional safety concerns, such as need to be placed in a conduit.

  Another problem in retail temperature monitoring is an insufficient amount of data. For example, a retail store's cooled or refrigerated area may have only a few temperature sensors. Long distances of refrigerated shelf units, or the entire meat and seafood display case may have only one thermometer. In these situations, the data generated by a limited number of temperature sensors may be insufficient to prevent spoilage and ensure food safety. The temperature at one end of the display case monitored by the temperature sensor is appropriate, but the temperature at the opposite end can exceed the product safety point.

  The present disclosure is directed to a temperature sensor that eliminates many of the aforementioned defects. The present disclosure is generally directed to a temperature sensor incorporated into an electronic shelf label for use in a retail environment. Temperature sensors and electronic shelf labels are provided with communication signals and low voltage power via inductive coupling. The present disclosure further provides a method of installing and operating the disclosed sensor, wherein the method includes connecting a plurality of electronic shelf labels to an area controller and out of the plurality of electronic shelf labels to monitor temperature. Determining which one should be used and assigning a temperature band or reporting interval to each electronic shelf label that will be used to monitor temperature.

  In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for monitoring temperature in a retail environment is provided. The method includes associating a product with a temperature monitoring electronic shelf label (ESL) that includes at least a built-in temperature sensor, a display, and a microprocessor having a memory device. The association may be performed using a handheld device that scans a label on the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label to obtain the unique ID of the temperature monitoring ESL and the product's universal product code. The handheld device may be in wireless communication with the tag area controller, and the handheld device sends a unique ID to the tag area controller. The tag area controller stores the association between the product and the temperature monitoring ESL. The temperature monitoring ESL transmits the temperature measured by the temperature sensor to the tag area controller, and the tag area controller stores the temperature information. This information can be later reviewed by the user using the smart device or on the area controller or system controller operably connected to the area controller. The tag area controller further transmits display information indicating the product price, sales price, and / or unit price to the temperature monitoring ESL. In some embodiments, the method provides an alarm notification via email, text message, automatic call, or computer notification if the temperature received at the tag area controller is outside a predetermined temperature range for the product. Is further provided. This may also include sending display information to the temperature monitoring ESL to display an alarm, product temperature, or to illuminate a light on the temperature monitoring ESL.

  In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for monitoring the temperature of a distribution zone within a refrigerator case is provided. The method provides for associating two or more temperature monitoring ESLs distributed within a refrigerator case with a product and a refrigerator zone. The association may use a handheld controller to scan the temperature monitoring ESL label and the product's universal product code, and the association is stored. The temperature is monitored and stored for each refrigerator zone and its associated product. If the temperature in the refrigerator zone falls outside the predetermined range for the product associated with the refrigerator zone, an alarm notification indicating the alarm temperature, the associated product, and the refrigerator zone where the alarm occurs will be emailed, text Sent via message, automatic call, or computer notification. In some embodiments, a temperature monitoring electronic shelf label reports this alarm. In some embodiments, the temperature monitoring ESL displays the product and refrigerator zone temperature, and if necessary displays an alarm and / or illuminates the indicator light.

  In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a programmable temperature monitoring electronic shelf label network system is provided. The system provides at least one temperature monitoring ESL, the at least one temperature monitoring ESL providing power and communication signals to the temperature sensor, a display, a microprocessor having a memory device, and the at least one temperature monitoring ESL. A power distribution and communication subsystem for providing. The subsystem may include a power source, a distribution loop operably connected to the temperature monitoring ESL, and a tag area controller operably connected to the distribution loop and the power source. The tag area controller associates each temperature monitoring ESL with a product, monitors a temperature signal received from each temperature monitoring ESL, and transmits display information to be displayed on the temperature monitoring ESL. Configured as follows.

  In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a temperature monitoring ESL is provided. The temperature monitoring ESL includes a casing, a display, an information label, a microprocessor having a memory device, and a temperature sensor. The microprocessor is configured to receive a temperature signal from the temperature sensor and send this signal to the remote tag area controller. The microprocessor is further configured to receive display information including one of a product price, sales price, or unit price. The temperature monitoring ESL will display this information. In some embodiments, the microprocessor is further configured to receive a predetermined temperature alarm set point and to send and display an alarm if the measured temperature is outside of this set point. The display may include illuminating an indicator light on the temperature monitoring ESL.

  These and other advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings.

It is a front profile figure of the electronic shelf label of a prior art.

1 is a front profile view of an electronic shelf label according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.

FIG. 6 is a front profile view of an electronic shelf label according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a front profile view of an electronic shelf label according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a front profile view of an electronic shelf label according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

1 is a simplified diagram of an electronic shelf label network according to some embodiments. FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an electronic shelf label network according to some embodiments. FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an electronic shelf label network according to some embodiments. FIG.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of elements of an electronic shelf label according to some embodiments.

  While this disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, the disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

  The present disclosure generally includes US Pat. Nos. 5,537,126, 5,736,967, 6,089,453, 6,249,263, which are incorporated herein in their entirety. , 6,271,807, and 6,844,821 are intended for use in connection with low voltage inductive coupling systems. However, the present disclosure may be used with additional systems and devices that employ inductive coupling to provide power and / or communication or control signals.

  Although many examples of the present disclosure, exemplary embodiments, involve retail products that need to be cold stocked, the present disclosure may be retail that needs to be provided to customers in hot conditions, such as heated food. Also for products. Accordingly, various features of the present disclosure can be tailored for specific issues of heated food. For example, a high temperature warning disclosed below for a cooled food will become a low temperature warning for a heated food. In either case, the alert is set to notify the retail store employee or system user of an undesirable temperature condition.

  FIG. 1 is a typical prior art shelf label. The ESL 10 is used at the location of conventional price labels on the retail shelf to allow retailers to update their price tags electronically. A typical ESL 10 comprises various electronic elements disposed within a casing 12, as shown in FIG. A display 14 is disposed on the front surface of the ESL 10. In FIG. 1, the display 14 is divided into a primary display area 16 and a secondary display area 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary display area 16 is used to display retail prices for retail items, and the secondary display area 18 is used to display unit prices. The front surface of the ESL 10 also typically includes a product information label 20 that may include a barcode 22.

  In one embodiment of the present disclosure, ESL 100 shown in FIG. 2A, secondary display area 118 is used to display temperature. ESL 100 includes various electronic elements disposed within casing 112. The front surface of the casing 112 is shown. A display 114 is disposed in the front surface of the ESL 100. In FIG. 2A, the display 114 is divided into a primary display area 116 and a secondary display area 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary display area 116 is used to display retail prices for retail items, and the secondary display area 118 is used to display measured product temperatures. The front surface of the ESL 100 also typically includes a product information label 120 that may include a barcode 122, QR code, or other code that may be scanned.

  In the second illustrated embodiment of ESL 100 shown in FIG. 2B, the product information label 120 is replaced with a first indicator light 7, a second indicator light 8, and a third indicator light 9. In some embodiments, indicator lights 7, 8, and 9 comprise LEDs. In some embodiments, the indicator lights 7, 8, and 9 are green, amber, and red, respectively, to indicate the temperature state of the ESL 100, as described in more detail below.

  In the third embodiment of ESL 100 shown in FIG. 2C, display 114 displays the temperature. This illustrated embodiment also includes a first indicator light 7, a second indicator light 8, and a third indicator light 9.

In the fourth embodiment of ESL 100 shown in FIG. 2D, the display 114 comprises a primary display area 116, a secondary display area 118, and a tertiary display area 121. In some embodiments, primary display area 116 is disposed over secondary display area 118 and tertiary display area 121. These three display areas of the display 114 can have a number of configurations for displaying various parameters, as detailed in Table 1 below. In some embodiments, the ESL 100 further comprises a first indicator light 7, a second indicator light 8, and a third indicator light 9.

  In yet a further embodiment, ESL 100 displays retail price and temperature on the same display 114 at alternating intervals (eg, displays retail price for 10 seconds, then displays temperature for 5 seconds, and then displays retail price again. Display for 10 seconds). In another embodiment, scroll buttons (not shown) on ESL 100 allow the user to scroll through various displays. This may include switching on demand between product price indication and product temperature.

  FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of an ESL network 200 according to some embodiments. The ESL 100 is disposed on a retail shelf throughout the retail store and connected in the network 200. In some embodiments, the network 200 includes a plurality of ESLs 100, at least one area controller 28, a system controller 26, a power supply 24, and a distribution loop 29. In some embodiments, the system controller 26 controls a plurality of area controllers 28, and each area controller 28 is responsible for controlling a plurality of ESLs 100 in a particular area of the retail store. For example, in some embodiments, a retail store is assigned a single system controller 26, and a separate area controller 28 is assigned to each retail store aisle. In some embodiments, power supply 24, area controller 28, system controller 26, and distribution loop 29 are referred to as a power distribution and communication system or subsystem.

  In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3A, power supply 24 is operatively connected to system controller 26, and system controller 26 is operably connected to area controller 28. Further, the area controller is operatively connected to the plurality of ESLs 100 via the distribution loop 29.

  In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3B, power supply 24 is operatively connected to area controller 28, which is operatively connected to a plurality of ESLs 100 via distribution loop 29. The Area controller 28 is further operatively connected to system controller 26. In some embodiments, the system controller 26 is wirelessly connected to the area controller 28.

  FIG. 3C is a schematic diagram of an ESL network 200 for at least one ESL 100, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the ESL network 200 distributes power and communication signals to the ESL 100. In some embodiments, ESL network 200 further distributes power to multiple video monitors 2, or other components such as promotional displays and inventory sensors.

  In some embodiments, the power source 24 is a standard wall outlet well known in the art. Power flows to the power stringer 29 through the area controller 28. In some embodiments, area controller 28 is a power tag area controller. In some embodiments, power stringer 29 is referred to as the primary distribution loop. In some embodiments, power stringer 29 distributes power between 45 VAC and 50 VAC, 50 KHz, and 1 ampere. A frequency of 50 KHz was partially selected to comply with applicable regulatory requirements.

  The power stringer 29 carries power from the area controller 28 to at least one ESL 100. In some embodiments, power stringer 29 further carries power to at least one secondary distribution loop 201. Secondary distribution loop 201 is sometimes referred to as a riser. Each ESL 100 is connected to a power stringer 29 or a secondary distribution loop 201 via a power coupler 204. Each video monitor 2 is connected to a power stringer 29 via a power converter 205. Each secondary distribution loop 201 is connected to the power stringer 29 via a primary-secondary connection 202. In some embodiments, the primary-secondary connection 202 is a step-down transformer that maintains the secondary distribution loop 201 at a lower voltage, frequency, and / or amperage than the power stringer 29. In other embodiments, the primary-secondary connection 202 maintains the secondary distribution loop 201 at the same voltage, frequency, and amperage as the power stringer 29.

  In embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3C, multiple video monitors 2 are connected to a single power supply 24 using a single power stringer 29 and multiple power converters 205. In some embodiments, multiple video monitors 2 may receive power through multiple power sources 24 or multiple power stringers 29. In some embodiments, the power supply 24 is connected to the power stinger 29 via inductive coupling. In some embodiments, at least one video monitor 2 is powered via a secondary distribution loop using a power coupler 204.

  In some non-limiting embodiments, power converter 205 and power coupler 204 are those described in US patent application Ser. No. 14 / 217,902.

  In some embodiments, the area controller 28 is a U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,537,126, 5,736,967, 6,249,263, 6,271,807, 6,844. , 821 and the like, used in electronic shelf label systems. In other embodiments, area controller 28 may be removed from ESL network 200, thereby allowing each power converter 205 and power coupler 204 to be connected to power supply 24. In some embodiments, area controller 28 is a power strip. In some embodiments, control for area controller 28 is provided by system controller 26.

  In some embodiments, multiple ESLs 100 receive power from multiple power supplies 24 or multiple low voltage power stringers 29.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram of elements of ESL 100 according to some embodiments. The electronic elements of the ESL 100 include, but are not limited to, a microprocessor 30 having a memory device, a power adapter and communication modulator 31, a wireless transceiver 32, a temperature sensor 33, a display driver 34, an application processor 35, And an alert LED driver 36 (also known as an indicator light driver). In some embodiments, these elements are stored in the casing 112, and the display 114 and product information 120 are stored on the front of the casing. In some embodiments, ESL 100 may include separate communication modules for communicating with area controller 28 and system controller 26 via a distribution loop or wirelessly. The microprocessor performs all command and control functions of the ESL 100 and is connected to the area controller 28 through the power adapter and communication modulator 31, which powers the microprocessor 30 and adds Adjust the voltage, amperage, and frequency appropriate for the element. The area controller 28 supplies power and command and communication signals to each of the plurality of ESLs 100. In some embodiments, ESL 100 is connected to area controller 28 via inductive coupling. In some embodiments, the microprocessor is an MSP430 ultra-low power microcontroller from Texas Instruments.

  Providing a temperature sensor 33 disposed within the ESL 100 allows the retailer to continuously monitor the temperature at multiple locations throughout the retail store. Further, the disclosed configuration allows a retailer to collect data from each of a plurality of temperature sensors 33 disposed throughout the retail environment.

  In some embodiments, the system controller 26 is a personal computer. In other embodiments, the system controller 26 is connected to or in communication with a personal computer. In some embodiments, the system controller 26 and / or the attached personal computer are used to establish temperature set points for multiple ESLs 100, either collectively or individually. When the temperature reaches the first set point (also known as the predetermined temperature warning set point), a warning is issued via notification and the temperature is set to the second set point (also known as the predetermined temperature alarm set point). Alarm is activated when it is reached or meets it. For example, some ice cream products are recommended to be stocked below 0 ° F. and begin to deteriorate at temperatures above 10 ° F. In ESL100 assigned to these products, warnings can be set to be active at -5 ° F and alarms can be set to be active at 5 ° F. This may alert retail employees when the temperature is in danger of exceeding the recommended stockpile temperature, and may provide an alarm when the temperature is in danger of exceeding the degradation temperature of the product. Since each ESL 100 can be programmed with different set points, the specific temperature needs of each product can be considered.

  In some embodiments, the warning is provided on the ESL 100 itself, such as in the form of a yellow or amber warning light, or by flashing the display 114 of the ESL 100. In some embodiments, the flashing display 114 further includes text displayed on the display 114, such as “high” or “high temperature”. In some embodiments, the warning light is one of the first indicator light 7, the second indicator light 8, or the third indicator light 9. In some embodiments, the alert is reported by the ESL 100 to the system controller 26 and / or an attached personal computer. In some embodiments, the alert is further reported by sending to the retail store employee via email, text message, call, and computer notification.

  In some embodiments, the alarm is provided on the ESL 100 itself, such as in the form of a red warning light, or by flashing the display 114 of the ESL 100. In some embodiments, the flashing display 114 further includes text displayed on the display 14, such as “high” or “high temperature”. In some embodiments, the alarm light is one of the first indicator light 7, the second indicator light 8, or the third indicator light 9. In some embodiments, the alarm is reported by the ESL 100 to the system controller 26 and / or an attached personal computer. In some embodiments, alarms are further sent to retail store employees via email, text messages, calls, and computer notifications. In some embodiments, warnings and alarms are provided by ESL 100. In some embodiments, warnings and alarms are provided by the system controller 26.

  In some embodiments, additional warnings or alarms are provided for violations of food safety guidelines based on temperature and timing. For example, if a refrigerated unit has a high temperature alarm that is not cleared for a predetermined number of hours, the food product in that unit may be damaged and the food product in it is no longer safe for sale and is discarded Additional food safety alarms can be provided to them to inform retailers that they should be done. In some embodiments, such warnings and alarms are provided via the system controller 26.

  In some embodiments, the ESL 100 is further capable of wireless communication via the wireless transceiver 32 with a variety of handheld smart devices that a retail store employee or customer may wish to use. For example, the ESL 100 communicates with a smartphone to provide customer information regarding (1) the temperature measured by the ESL 100 and (2) the safety requirements of the retail products associated with that ESL 100. Wireless communication may be performed via WiFi, Bluetooth, infrared beam, RFID, or other NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. As another example, ESL 100 may: (1) the temperature measured by ESL 100; (2) the safety requirements of the retail product associated with that ESL 100; and (3) the duration that ESL 100 was in an alarm or warning condition. Communicate with a retail store employee's handheld device to serve. In addition, this information can be provided to customers or employees in a comprehensive history of product temperatures. In some embodiments, system controller 26 and / or area controller 28 may perform these communications with smart devices as an alternative or addition to ESL 100.

  In some embodiments, the system controller 26 and / or attached personal computer stores temperature data for a predetermined time period, thereby allowing a user to view a history of temperature trends. . This data can be sent to a smart device such as a phone or tablet for review by the user and can be viewed directly on the tag area controller 28 or system controller 26. For example, historical trends can be used to identify refrigerated units that are not operating properly. If the refrigeration unit generally operates under steady load conditions (ie steady content, steady customer use, steady ambient temperature), the temperature rise in the refrigeration unit can be refilled with refrigerant, air filters, etc. May indicate that maintenance is required. As another example, monitoring the trend indicates when the refrigerator was overloaded during the restock by monitoring the time trend it takes for the refrigerator to reach the desired temperature after the restock. be able to.

  The present disclosure further provides a method for installing the disclosed ESL 100 with the temperature sensor 33. The ESL 100 with the built-in temperature sensor 33 is connected via an inductive coupling to an area controller 28 that is connected to or in communication with the system controller 26. Upon initial installation, the temperature sensing function of the ESL 100 may be disabled or inactive. The ESL 100 is assigned an address. The user links the ESL 100 to a particular retail product by scanning the ESL information label (barcode, QR code, or equivalent) and the product UPC. Information scanned by the user is sent to the system controller 26, which associates the ESL 100 with the UPC of the scanned product and stores this association in memory. The user can also associate ESL 100 with the refrigerator zone in the refrigerator case in a similar manner. Here, the ESL 100 may be associated only with the product, the refrigerator zone, or may be associated with both the product and the refrigerator zone. In some embodiments, the user may use the system controller 26 to manually select or enter a UPC code for a product to be associated with a particular ESL. Although the system controller 26 has been described herein as receiving and associating ESL and product UPC data, it should be understood that the area controller 28 may also perform these functions. For communication with the ESL 100, the terms system controller 26 and area controller 28 may be used interchangeably.

  Area controller 28 assigns at least one ESL 100 to monitor temperature. The area controller may select which ESL 100 will monitor the temperature automatically or through user input. The ESL can also indicate the temperature measured on its display. The area controller 28 then assigns a predetermined set of conditions to each ESL 100 whose temperature is to be monitored. For example, in some embodiments, ESL 100 is assigned a predetermined temperature band or range, eg, −10 ° F. to 30 ° F., and ESL 100 is only if the temperature being measured leaves its assigned band. An alarm is reported to the area controller 28. As another example, ESL 100 is instructed to report temperature to area controller 28 at a predetermined reporting interval, which may or may not be a set or fixed interval, May only be present when an alarm or warning condition occurs. In some embodiments, the area controller 28, system controller 26, or attached personal computer receives temperature data from the ESL 100 and determines whether a warning or alarm condition exists. In this embodiment, the system controller 26 may be configured to direct one or more indicator lights on the ESL 100 to be illuminated, or to cause a high temperature warning to be displayed on the ESL 100 display.

  In some embodiments, ESL 100 is configured to communicate wirelessly with a handheld controller, which allows retailers to individually adjust ESL settings on the shelf. The handheld controller may be operatively connected to ESL 100, system controller 26 and / or area controller 28 via wireless or other means. It may be described that ESL 100 is in wireless communication with a handheld controller, which is indirect communication through other components in the network system, such as system controller 26 and / or area controller 28. It will be understood and should be understood. Further, in some embodiments, ESL set points (ie, unit price, temperature warning, temperature alarm, etc.) are predetermined and stored in a database that is operatively connected to the system controller 26. In some embodiments, the set point information is stored in a database associated with the product UPC. When a retailer uses a handheld controller to set the ESL on the shelf associated with a product, the retailer scans only the UPC and ESL information labels to get a unique ID between the product and the ESL There is a need to. The handheld controller sends the unique ID of the product and ESL to the system controller 26 and / or the area controller 28. The ESL set point and display information will be automatically identified, uploaded from the system controller 26 to the ESL 100, and displayed and monitored by the ESL 100 as needed. For example, if the retailer is swapping the location of the first product and the second product on the shelf, simply by scanning the second product UPC with the handheld controller after scanning the ESL information label, The first ESL may be switched from the first product to the second product. Relevant UPC information (display configuration, predetermined temperature range, predetermined reporting interval, etc.) is then communicated to the ESL through area controller 28 and / or system controller 26, which is associated with the second product. And updated based on the stored predetermined set point. The updated ESL now displays the price associated with the second product and monitors for high temperature conditions and food safety violations based on the specific predetermined temperature needs of the second product .

  In some embodiments, the area controller 28 further specifies which ESLs 100 will display the temperature on their display 114.

  In some embodiments, area controller 28 designates ESL 100 as a stand-alone temperature monitor. In this embodiment, the ESL 100 need not be linked to a particular retail product. In this embodiment, ESL 100 need not display retail prices. In this embodiment, the ESL 100 is assigned a temperature band or reports temperature at predetermined intervals, as described above.

  In some embodiments, temperature calibration is performed on the ESL 100 when the ESL 100 is connected to the area controller 28.

  Using the installation and activation methods disclosed above, a network of temperature sensors can be deployed throughout the retail environment to monitor the environment for acceptable temperatures. This network is advantageous because it provides much more data points than existing stand-alone temperature monitoring systems.

  In some embodiments, the system controller 26 and / or attached personal computer is connected to a network, such as the Internet, thereby enabling remote monitoring of temperature sensors. For example, a retailer may connect his temperature monitoring network to a larger corporate network, which allows corporate employees at remote locations to monitor temperatures in the retail environment. In some embodiments, a retail store employee can remotely check the status of the temperature monitoring network during off hours when the retail store is closed. The ability to deliver dispensing temperatures remotely across refrigerator cases and retail stores advantageously reduces costs. For example, maintenance personnel can receive more information about refrigerator temperature and potentially system health status without having to visit each store.

  In some embodiments, the system controller 26 and / or the attached personal computer may be pre-determined by system users or retail employees at predetermined intervals, which may or may not be set or fixed intervals. Configured to send status reports to a set of Status reports are implemented as emails, text messages, FTP files, or computer notifications. The status report may include an alarm or warning condition.

  The present disclosure includes many advantages over existing technologies. Most particularly, the low voltage power supply is less expensive to install than a standard 120V electrical system. Due to its low voltage, the power supply also has significantly fewer safety concerns and cord requirements. The present disclosure also eliminates the need for battery replacement, i.e., time and labor intensive processes that increase the cost of retailers maintaining the promotional system. In addition, by incorporating a temperature sensor into the electronic shelf label, the retailer can monitor the trend effectively, set and evaluate the alarm setpoint, and ensure that the proper temperature is maintained. Temperature data can be generated. Finally, the disclosed system is more reliable than a battery powered system because it does not require frequent power supply replacement and provides wired communication between the ESL, the area, and the system controller.

  It can be emphasized that the embodiments described above are particularly any "preferred" embodiments that are merely possible examples of implementations, and have been set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. . Many variations and modifications to the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be made without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within this scope.

  Although this specification includes many details, they should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, while the features are described above as working in several combinations and may even be initially claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination are: In some cases it may be deleted from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a partial combination or a variation of a partial combination.

  Similarly, operations are shown in a particular order in the drawings, which is such that such actions are performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or all, to achieve the desired result. Should not be understood as requiring that the illustrated operations be performed. In some situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments.

Claims (22)

A method of temperature monitoring of the distribution refrigerator zone temperature in the refrigerator case,
Distributing two or more temperature monitoring electronic shelf labels in a refrigerator case, the temperature monitoring electronic shelf labels being stored in a casing, respectively, a temperature sensor, a display, an information label, and a memory device And wherein the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label is operatively connected to a tag area controller that is remote from the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label;
Associating each temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with a product and a refrigerator zone in which the product is located,
Scanning the information label to obtain a unique ID of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label;
Scanning a universal product code to obtain a unique ID for the product;
Associating the unique ID of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with the unique ID of the product;
Storing the association, and
Monitoring the temperature at each temperature monitoring electronic shelf label,
Measuring the temperature of the refrigerator zone monitored by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with the temperature sensor;
Storing the temperature, and
Displaying display information received by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label including one of a product price, a selling price, or a unit price by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label. Transferring the temperature of each refrigerator zone measured by each temperature sensor to a smart device for display;
Comparing the measured temperature of each refrigerator zone to a predetermined temperature range for the product associated with the refrigerator zone;
If the measured temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range, reporting an alarm by the tag area controller, wherein reporting the alarm is an email, text message, automatic call, or computer The method of claim 1, further comprising: sending an alarm notification indicating the alarm temperature, a refrigerator zone, and an associated product via a notification.   Each temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further comprises a first indicator light and an indicator light driver each stored in the casing, wherein the temperature measured by the temperature sensor is related to the refrigerator zone. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the display information illuminates the first indicator light when outside the predetermined temperature range for. Each temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further comprises a first indicator light and an indicator light driver respectively stored in the casing,
Displaying the temperature of each refrigerator zone measured by each temperature sensor on the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label for that refrigerator zone;
Comparing the measured temperature of each refrigerator zone to a predetermined temperature range for the product associated with the refrigerator zone;
If the measured temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range, reporting an alarm by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label, wherein reporting the alarm is the alarm temperature, a refrigerator zone, The method of claim 1, further comprising sending an alarm notification indicating an associated product and illuminating the first indicator light. A method of monitoring temperature in a retail environment,
Associating a product with a temperature monitoring electronic shelf label, the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label comprising a temperature sensor, a display, and a microprocessor having a memory device, each stored in a casing;
Storing the association;
Monitoring temperature in the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label,
Measuring the temperature at a retail shelf by the temperature sensor;
Storing the temperature, and
Displaying display information received by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label from the tag area controller, including one of product price, sales price, or unit price, by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label. . The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further comprises an information label, and associating the product with the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label comprises:
Scanning the information label to obtain a unique ID of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label;
Scanning a universal product code to obtain a unique ID for the product;
6. The method of claim 5, comprising associating the unique ID of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with the unique ID of the product. The method of claim 6, further comprising transferring the temperature measured by the temperature sensor to a smart device for display. Monitoring the temperature is
Comparing the temperature to a predetermined temperature range;
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising reporting an alarm by the tag area controller if the temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range.   9. The method of claim 8, wherein reporting the alarm comprises sending an alarm notification by the tag area controller via email, text message, automatic call, or computer notification.   The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further includes a first indicator light and an indicator light driver respectively stored in the casing, and the display information from the tag area controller is such that the temperature is within the predetermined temperature range. 9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the alarm notification to illuminate the first indicator light if outside.   11. The method further comprises displaying a product temperature or alarm by the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label, and the display information received from the tag area controller further includes one of the product temperature or the alarm. The method described in 1. Assigning a set point to the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label,
Identifying a predetermined temperature range of the product;
Transmitting the predetermined temperature range to the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label;
Storing the predetermined temperature range in the memory device of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label; and
Monitoring the temperature further comprises comparing the temperature measured by the temperature sensor with the predetermined temperature range;
Sending the temperature further comprises sending an alarm to the tag area controller via the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label if the temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range;
The method of claim 6.   13. The method of claim 12, further comprising sending an alarm notification via email, text message, automatic call, or computer notification.   The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further comprises a first indicator light and an indicator light driver, each stored in the casing, and when the temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range, the temperature monitoring electronic shelf The method of claim 13, wherein a label illuminates the first indicator light.   13. The method of claim 12, wherein displaying further comprises displaying the temperature measured by the temperature sensor with the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label. A programmable temperature monitoring electronic shelf label network system comprising:
At least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label comprising a temperature sensor, a display, and a microprocessor having a memory device, each stored in a casing of the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label, wherein the microprocessor includes the temperature A temperature monitoring electronic shelf label operatively connected to the sensor and the display;
A power distribution and communication subsystem for providing power and communication signals to said at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label comprising:
Power supply,
A distribution loop operably connected to the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label;
A tag area controller operably connected to the power source and the distribution loop, the tag area controller comprising:
Associating the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with a product to be monitored;
Monitoring the temperature of the product by receiving a temperature signal transmitted from the microprocessor;
A programmable temperature monitoring electronic shelf label network system system comprising: a power distribution and communication subsystem comprising: a tag area controller configured to transmit display information to the temperature monitoring electronic shelf label. And further comprising a handheld controller operably connected to the tag area controller, wherein the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label further comprises an information label, the handheld controller comprising:
Scanning the information label; sending a unique ID of the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label to the tag area controller;
Scanning the universal product code of the product and sending a unique ID of the product to the tag area controller, the tag area controller comprising the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label, the product, Associating the at least one temperature monitoring electronic shelf label with a product by receiving the unique ID of
The system of claim 16. Temperature monitoring electronic shelf label,
A casing having a front surface and a back surface;
A display disposed within the front surface of the casing;
An information label disposed on the front surface of the casing, the information label comprising one of a bar code or a QR code;
A microprocessor disposed within the casing having a memory device, a display driver, and a communication module;
A temperature sensor disposed within the casing and operably connected to the microprocessor, the microprocessor comprising:
Receiving a temperature signal measured from the temperature sensor; sending the measured temperature to a tag area controller;
Receiving display information from the tag area controller including one of a price for the product, a selling price, or a unit price;
A temperature monitoring electronic shelf label comprising: a temperature sensor configured to display the display information. Further comprising a first indicator light disposed within the front surface of the casing;
The display includes a primary display area and a secondary display area, wherein the primary display area is configured to display a product price, and the secondary display area is configured to display a measured temperature. And
The microprocessor further comprises an indicator light driver, the microprocessor operably connected to the first indicator light;
Receiving a predetermined temperature alarm set point for the product from the tag area controller;
Storing the predetermined temperature alarm set point;
Displaying the measured temperature on the display;
Illuminating the first indicator light and sending an alarm notification to a tag area controller when the measured temperature signal meets the predetermined temperature alarm set point; and
The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label of claim 18. And further comprising a second indicator light disposed within the front surface of the casing, wherein the microprocessor receives a predetermined temperature warning set point, and the measured temperature signal is the predetermined temperature warning setting. Further configured to illuminate the second indicator light and send a warning notification to the tag area controller when filling a point;
20. The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label of claim 19.   The display is configured to display one of retail price, sales price, unit price, regular price, stockpile, temperature measured by the temperature sensor, set temperature, low range set point, or high range set point. 21. The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label of claim 20, further comprising a configured tertiary display area.   The display further comprises a first indicator light disposed in the front surface of the casing, the display information further comprises an alarm, the microprocessor further comprises an indicator light driver, and the microprocessor comprises the first indicator The temperature monitoring electronic shelf label of claim 18 operatively connected to a light and configured to illuminate the first indicator light upon receipt of an alarm.