EP2016475A2 - Agencement de détecteur de mouvement pour dispositif de point de vente, dispositif d'affichage automatisé et procédé de mise à jour de contenu pour un dispositif d'affichage automatisé - Google Patents

Agencement de détecteur de mouvement pour dispositif de point de vente, dispositif d'affichage automatisé et procédé de mise à jour de contenu pour un dispositif d'affichage automatisé

Info

Publication number
EP2016475A2
EP2016475A2 EP07812110A EP07812110A EP2016475A2 EP 2016475 A2 EP2016475 A2 EP 2016475A2 EP 07812110 A EP07812110 A EP 07812110A EP 07812110 A EP07812110 A EP 07812110A EP 2016475 A2 EP2016475 A2 EP 2016475A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
display device
recited
video
motion sensor
automated
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP07812110A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Christopher Dooley
Paul Nielsen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Clever Innovations Inc
Original Assignee
Clever Innovations Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/735,118 external-priority patent/US7865831B2/en
Priority claimed from US11/735,317 external-priority patent/US20080077422A1/en
Priority claimed from US11/735,170 external-priority patent/US7568116B2/en
Application filed by Clever Innovations Inc filed Critical Clever Innovations Inc
Publication of EP2016475A2 publication Critical patent/EP2016475A2/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/26—Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
    • G06F1/32—Means for saving power
    • G06F1/3203—Power management, i.e. event-based initiation of a power-saving mode
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/26—Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
    • G06F1/32—Means for saving power
    • G06F1/3203—Power management, i.e. event-based initiation of a power-saving mode
    • G06F1/3206—Monitoring of events, devices or parameters that trigger a change in power modality
    • G06F1/3231—Monitoring the presence, absence or movement of users
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00—Commerce
    • G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02D—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES [ICT], I.E. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES AIMING AT THE REDUCTION OF THEIR OWN ENERGY USE
    • Y02D10/00—Energy efficient computing, e.g. low power processors, power management or thermal management

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an automated point of purchase device.
  • the present invention relates to a motion sensor arrangement for an automated shelf-display device that automatically displays information when sensing a person's presence and to a method of updating the content information to be displayed on the automated shelf-display device.
  • the known devices have several disadvantages. Their operation can be too simplistic, hi particular, they may not have any ability to accurately sense a person's nearby presence or motion, or they may require a person to take steps to initiate operation of the device.
  • the power consumption of these devices may not be optimal for their use, due to the absence of any power conservation software.
  • the devices do not permit the content information to be easily updated without the costs of a network system for distributing the content. Accordingly, what is not appreciated in the related art is the need for at least one of an improved motion sensor arrangement for a point of purchase device, an improved point of purchase device, and an improved method of updating the content information to be displayed on a point of purchase device that overcomes the detriments noted above.
  • a main objective is to produce an automated point of purchase device that overcomes at least one of the detriments noted above.
  • Another objective is to provide an improved point of purchase device that is, in combination, largely automated in terms of both operation and recognition of the presence of a person, not reliant on an external power source or network, and which incorporates power management features.
  • the preferred embodiments of the present invention relate to a stand alone video display device, attachable to shelving, that provides an automated advertising display with an improved motion sensing and activation feature, and a power management function to manage power usage during periods of use and non- activation, and a readily programmable and re-programmable operating system.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an automated display unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 A is a front view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 2B is a top view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 2C is a bottom view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 2D is a left-side view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 2E is a right-side view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1
  • Fig. 2F is a rear view of the automated display unit in Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the electronic components of a display unit according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figs. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating the top view and perspective view, respectively, of an exemplary, non-limiting, implementation of a motion sensor arrangement in a display device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a diagram of the motion sensor assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 6A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary, non-limiting, embodiment of the method of updating the content information to be displayed by the display device.
  • Fig. 6B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of the process of transferring files from a handheld computer to the display device.
  • Fig. 7 is an exemplary Import Window 700 that is displayed automatically when the conversion software is loaded and launched.
  • Fig. 8 is an exemplary Window 800, permitting the identification of two additional alternate video files.
  • Fig. 9 is an exemplary Teaser Window 900 for identifying a teaser video file to import.
  • Fig. 10 is an exemplary Window 1000 for identifying additional alternate teaser video files.
  • Fig. 11 is an exemplary Window 1100 for identifying a static image or screen saver to appear on the display when entering sleep mode.
  • Fig. 12 shows an exemplary Timing Select menu 1200.
  • Fig. 13 is an exemplary menu of exemplary volume settings.
  • Fig. 14 is an exemplary Window 1400, where the user is prompted to enter the "Film Number" that identifies data file.
  • Figs. 15 - 20 are various exemplary troubleshooting windows that may appear during the process of establishing a USB connection.
  • Figs. 21 - 25 are exemplary windows that may appear during the process of transferring files.
  • Fig. 26 is an exemplary window that may appear when the flash memory of the display device is empty.
  • Fig. 27 is an exemplary window that may appear if the flash memory of the display device has been programmed.
  • Fig. 28 is an exemplary window that appears when the batteries are checked to be OK.
  • Fig. 29 is an exemplary screen which appears if the battery voltage is unacceptably low.
  • Fig. 30 is an exemplary window that displays the file numbers and descriptions of video files on a memory card.
  • Fig. 31 is an exemplary screen that confirms the Film # to be transferred.
  • Fig. 32 is an exemplary window that appears when a video file is being transferred.
  • Fig. 33 is an exemplary window that may be displayed when the transfer of a video file is complete.
  • Display unit 100 includes a housing 110 that functions to support the internal mounting of electronic components and a power supply and to support a video display element 120, such as an LCD display, and a button 130.
  • the display element 120 may be an inorganic LCD display, or any other effective video display apparatus, including an organic LED display (OLED), plasma display, or other type of image display as may be developed within the future suitable for the particular purpose herein.
  • OLED organic LED display
  • plasma display or other type of image display as may be developed within the future suitable for the particular purpose herein.
  • a touch screen display may be integrated in a manner consistent with the power management system discussed herein.
  • minor adaptations would be made to operate a touch screen display or operate a touch screen activation mode, such adaptations do not teach away from the present invention, but are another embodiment of the invention.
  • the button 130 may be any kind of effective and suitable physically- actuated activation switch, or a capacitive or resistive touch-screen type display device that permits user selection by touching a portion(s) of the screen.
  • alternative embodiments may have a plurality of buttons or switches. If so, the switches can be implemented with different respective functions. For example, one switch may operate a "teaser" advertisement, a video of short duration designed to draw a consumer's immediate attention to the display. Another switch may provide for a "regular" or longer advertisement. The longer advertisements may range in duration from a couple seconds to several minutes depending upon unit design and programming desired by an operator. A preferred range of advertisement duration is from 15-45 seconds. Yet another switch may provide "more information" or a set of additional summaries or consumer information points, for example nutritional facts, coupon availability, or additional details.
  • a fixing apparatus 140 for clamping display device on shelving may be provided. Not limited to apparatus 140, any commonly available claiming or securing mechanism may be adapted to securely hold display unit 100 on a shelf, display edge, or other fixed location so as to position display unit 100 in a manner convenient for both motion sensor operation and consumer viewing of display element 120. In an alternative embodiment, a repositionable and lockable stalk member (not shown) that enables display device 100 to be repositioned to adapt to difficult locations.
  • Fig. 3 is a block diagram of various electronic components within automated display device 100. This diagram is not meant to be exhaustive of the electrical components used within display device 100, but is merely illustrative to assist in describing the stored software and hardware utilized to operate display unit 100 in the manner described herein. There may be additional processors, RAM or ROM memory devices 8 or both including NAND/NOR flash type memory, masked ROM, or a hard drive, or any other storage medium 8 for storing control and operation information, video images and audio data. Additionally, display device 100 may include a number of operationally orientated programs for operating the LCD, receiving consumer input, and tracking operational and triggering data. These programs preferably include a power management software program that allows display unit 100 to operate for an extended period of time without an external power supply.
  • Such conservation software includes a low standby current design for use when unit 100 is not delivering an advertising message, as well as a busy store over-ride feature that keeps the unit in a standby condition when a pre-determined quantity of "on" activations occurs in a short time period.
  • a microcontroller unit (MCU) 310 controls the general operation of the device under at least some element of software of firmware control.
  • MCU 310 controls video playback on LCM display 120, sound output through speaker 330, read/write operations of video content files and programming data to non-volatile memory, such as a NAND flash memory 340, a computer interface such as USB interface 350 for downloading files to the device from a computer, and a memory interface such as SD card slot 360 for transferring files between the device and a flash memory card.
  • a Wake Up IC 370 with power saving capabilities, that in turn controls motion sensors 381 and 382, which interacts with MCU 310.
  • MCU 310 may be any suitable microcontroller unit, and is preferably a highly integrated system-on-a- chip for general-purpose applications including a CPU, memory and I/O controller, a SD/MMC memory interface, a USB mini-host/device, a color STN- LCD and TFT-LCD interface, and embedded SRAM and ROM.
  • a preferable microcontroller unit minimizes overall system costs and eliminates the need to configure additional components while providing high-speed performance of the functions described in this application.
  • FIGs. 4A-4F Schematic diagrams of an exemplary, non-limiting, implementation of the electronics and circuitry for the display device are shown in Figs. 4A-4F of Provisional Application No. 60/888,040 filed on February 2, 2007.
  • a Bill of Materials (BoM) for the exemplary, non-limiting, implementation is shown in Fig. 5 of Provisional Application No. 60/888,040 filed on February 2, 2007.
  • the circuitry in any one of Figs. 4A-4F of the provisional application may be modified irrespective of the circuitry in the other figures.
  • the circuitry and electronics in Figs. 4A-4F are preferably, but need not be, mounted on a single printed circuit board.
  • USB interface 350 may be an externally accessible connection port (USB format), or an internal connection port (also a USB type connection port), hi either situation, field personnel can physically connect to the display device (for example via a mini-USB connection) for downloading new programming information, for uploading data reporting items, and for otherwise operationally controlling display unit 100.
  • USB interface 350 is positioned internally, allowing housing 110 to provide a sleek outward appearance and protecting the USB interface 350 from the ravages of working in a busy consumer environment where children and debris are present.
  • the MCU 310 preferably operates in a manner responsive to a plurality of buttons.
  • the main button 130 is preferably a normally open, momentary, button that initiates some action, such as playing video messages, when pressed.
  • the Up Select button and Down Select buttons may be used, for example, to navigate through a menu or make a selection displayed on LCM display 120. This is discussed further below with respect to the transfer of videos into the device through SD card slot 360.
  • the main button 130 is preferably on the front of the device as shown in Figs. 2A-2F, while the other buttons may be located on the back or the bottom of the device.
  • the unit will automatically reset itself every 24 hours using software and external components. Whenever the reset button is pressed either manually or automatically, the NAND flash memory will not be erased and it will return to normal operating status.
  • the device will preferably go into a sleep (power conservation) mode. It will remain in the sleep mode unless woken up by Wake Up IC 370 or a press of main button A.
  • the Wake Up IC When movement is detected by either one of sensor 381 or sensor 382, the Wake Up IC
  • the 370 takes the device out of sleep mode.
  • some pre-defined action may be performed. This pre-defined action may be, for example, the playing of a teaser video on LCM display 120.
  • the sensors are preferably at least one of an optical sensor, Infra-Red (IR), a Radio Frequency (RF), or physical sensing device.
  • the two motion (CDS) sensors 381 and 382 are configured to detect movement anywhere in a selected range.
  • the range may be, for example, anywhere from six feet to twelve feet.
  • the sensors are oriented 90 degrees apart as shown in Figs. 4A and 4B to cover both directions of a store aisle as consumers approach from either direction, but may be at any angle between 45 degrees and 150 degrees. (Although the housing of display 100 is shown in Figs.
  • the sensors may be movable so that the angle and range of the sensors can be varied. This allows the device to be adjusted to work optimally in a given location.
  • the device may be in an aisle of an unusual width or on an endcap of an aisle.
  • any number of sensors in any arrangement suitable for detecting movement may be utilized.
  • a third motion sensor could be added in the middle of the two motion sensors shown in Fig. 4 A and 4B. Such an arrangement would be useful for an aisle end cap placement to detect persons approaching anywhere in a range of 180 degrees around the device.
  • the motion sensors 381 and 382 may detect only a shadow because they are motion only sensors that receive or watch for ambient light variations provided by the overhead store lighting.
  • display device 100 detects only the shadow from a passing person but is highly efficient in power use when compared to IR or RF sensing devices that must generate a signal and sense a corresponding bounce- back signal.
  • the sensors may be configured in different manners.
  • An example of a motion sensor assembly 500 according to a preferred embodiment is shown in Fig. 5.
  • the sensor assembly 500 includes a focusing lens 510 in order to narrow and sharpen the light within the detection range and thereby conserve power.
  • the sensor assembly also includes a blinder housing 520 and a low cost optical receiving element 530, preferably an optical receiving element with low power consumption. This component measures the optical light that it receives and provides this information to Wake Up IC 370 in the embodiment of Fig. 3 or some other integrated circuit in other embodiments.
  • the optical receiving element 530 may be a photodiode, phototransistor, photoresistor, Cadmium Sulfide (CdS) cell sensor, or any other suitable optical based receiver that detects light.
  • the lens 510 includes a convex lens element that focuses the light towards optical receiving element 530. This feature improves the sensitivity and range of an optical receiving element used alone without a lens, which may be as little as 1 to 4 feet, up to as much as 15 feet. In addition, the lens design 510 is less sensitive to ambient light placement, such as store lighting, because it analyzes a tunnel of light much more accurately.
  • the blinder housing 520 (or different blinders in other embodiments) prevents outside light (that should not be analyzed) from reaching optical receiving element 530. This allows only the focused light from lens 510 to be focused on optical receiving element 530.
  • alternative sensor assemblies may employ various different and/or additional focusing lenses, target-area definition "blinders", or other devices to control an actuation of the sensors, and hence avoid inadvertent activation of display device 100.
  • Wake Up IC 370 receives the light amounts from the optical receiving element 530 and calculates if there is a change within a specific time period.
  • the optical receiving element is wired into Wake Up IC 370 in a way that it will have an output that ranges from 0 volts to 5 volts (or some other known range of voltage or current).
  • Some embodiments may not include Wake Up IC 370 and this function is performed by a different IC or by different circuitry.
  • a significant change in light means a person has been detected which triggers an action, such as the playing of a video, a sound, and/or a light effect.
  • the photosensitive capability of the motion sensors may also be supplemented by software processing to better detect, not merely when a person comes within range of the device, but whether they are likely to be a shopper or other person coming into range of the device for the first time. For example, it is desired that a person who is stocking items or otherwise working in the aisle and constantly or repeatedly within range of the device would not repetitively trigger the device.
  • software in the device may process the sensor signals depending upon the intervals of detection by the sensor. If the detection interval is sufficiently large, it may be assumed that the person is coming into range and the device should be turned on.
  • the logic applied to the sensor signals so that the interval criteria need not always be the same and may be dynamically adjusted during operation of the device.
  • the device can be programmed through software to learn the optimal interval or other criteria that is to be used to determine when the device is awakened from sleep mode.
  • the electronic components of the display device 100 preferably receive power from an internal or auxiliary power source rather than an external AC power source, hi particular, a plurality of standard, inexpensive alkaline type batteries may be used. These batteries may be the smaller AA size or up to the larger D size alkaline battery. However, any suitable power source, ranging from lithium-ion batteries, to miniature camera batteries, to solar power or fuel cells, may be used to supply power to the components of display unit 100 in various embodiments of the invention.
  • Power management is variable within display device 100, based upon customer request, the present invention is readily adaptable to various power supply requests and demands regarding the overall size and shape of housing 110.
  • An audio device preferably in the form of a miniature speaker 330 that will provide audio waves regarding the advertisement or promotional material to a triggering customer upon command, as will be discussed.
  • the display device 100 When the motion sensors detect motion, the display device 100 preferably plays a Teaser video as assigned by the conversion software. If the Teaser video is playing and button 130 is pressed, the Teaser video will stop playing and the informative video will interrupt and start playing. When button 130 on the display device 100 is pressed, it will play the informative video as assigned by the PC Conversion software. If any button is pressed while an Informative Video is playing, it will not interrupt it. When the current Informative Video has stopped playing, a pressed button can then play the next Informative Video.
  • the device operates in three different modes. As discussed herein, power management software preferably enables operation in three modes.
  • the first mode is a "green mode" wherein a power chip operates the device in a semi-sleep mode.
  • power is feed (preferably) only to the motion sensors and motion sensing is used to trigger operation.
  • the current draw from the power supply will be only 15 microAmps ( ⁇ A), thereby conserving power until the display device is triggered.
  • other motion sensors such IR ultrasonic and opt electrical sensors may have greater current burdens.
  • the green mode upon a first sensing of a consumer, the "teaser" video is displayed. Upon sensing multiple or longer-duration consumer activity, display device 100 may display the "regular" or complete advertisement, and possibly even an "information set" of video details.
  • the second mode is the "operating mode” in which the device is fully active and operational, and any operation of the display device triggers the video display.
  • Verbal commands may wake up the device from either the green mode or the sleep mode into the normal operating mode.
  • the current burden will be relatively large since it will include that needed for the LCD display 120 (approximately 100 milh ' Amps for a color screen), speaker 330, memory 340, and the other electronics. Nevertheless, in a preferred embodiment, the electronics will use no more than 200 milliAmps (mA) in the operating mode.
  • the third mode is a "full-sleep mode" in which a button or a touch screen needs to be contacted to awaken the display device 100.
  • the power savings is at a maximum since even the motion sensors are not operating.
  • This mode may be triggered by a voltage sensor operating across the battery power supply determining that an exceptionally low voltage reading remains on battery life.
  • the device is then forced to enter sleep mode from the green mode or operating mode. Since the sensors do not operate in the full-sleep mode, the device will not self-awaken despite the presence of a person within sensor range.
  • the displayed videos may be a series of stored bit map files for the video and corresponding .wav audio files may be used for the sound production.
  • a touch screen display is used in the display device, sections of the touch screen may be similarly tracked and reported regarding consumer interest in the visual display.
  • the data recording and transfer mode provided for unit 100 is designed to record the usage of the unit and transfer the recorded back to a another device during an update or a change of the display device. This data can then be used to measure the number of advertising impressions, tune the activation timing (firmware operation) to maximize performance, adjust an advertising messaging and otherwise provide battery change out advice to the support staff regarding time in use, time to replace (remaining life), efficacy, voltage level during use, etc.
  • Updates to the content displayed by the display device may be made by connecting a flash memory or physically replacing a memory card. Where actual updating of a memory is done on location, the use of particular separate memory modules allow the update, or allow the receipt of and vetting of a particular update code prior to overwriting of the existing memory. This serves the function of preservation of prior programming in a situation where the device is unreliable, the software is unreliable, or the operational controller may have difficulty updating the new system.
  • Fig. 6A Two methods of installing or updating the video content information on a display device are shown in Fig. 6A.
  • the video files are not directly transferred to the display device.
  • Such a method has disadvantages that it requires the display device to be networked in some manner and to include networking capabilities. It also requires the device to have sufficient hardware and software to receive and process the video files. Instead, the video files are imported into a personal computer and are then converted by a software program installed and operating in the personal computer. This allows video files of various formats, such as AVI video files, to be used for content information to be displayed by the display device without the display device being capable of processing such video file types.
  • a person utilizes the computer software to create and export a single file that includes all video content and features to be implemented in the display device.
  • the export file could include programming files such as, for example, a plurality of different firmwares.
  • a firmware could, for example, control the features and functions performed by the buttons on the display device, to control the motion sensors, and to set the maximum activation time delay of the motion sensors.
  • the functions and capabilities of the display device can be changed and improved.
  • a description of the functioning of exemplary PC conversion software will now be provided. This embodiment is by way of example only, and the PC conversion software may function differently than described here.
  • an Import Window 700 as shown in Fig. 7 will automatically be displayed.
  • the Import Window 700 allows the user to select informative AVI video files to import.
  • the file name selected under each button identifies which AVI file is placed when that button is pressed.
  • the user can directly type the directory and file name they wish to use for each button or select the file icon to browse their hard drive for the correct file to import.
  • Duplicate file names can be inserted into multiple boxes if the user wishes. However, the display device flash memory will automatically only store the duplicate file once to conserve memory and repeatedly play that video as indicated in Fig. 7.
  • ALT icon in Import Window 700 is pressed, the window's appearance changes to reveal two additional alternate video files per button. See Window 800 in Fig. 8.
  • the fourth time button A is pressed it will repeat the sequence and so on. If file names are not inserted into all locations on Window 800, only the files included will be played back. For example, if only two video files are entered for button A, each time button A is pressed, it will alternate playing the one of the two video files entered.
  • the Hide Alt icon can be pressed to go back to the single video file per button option shown in Window 700.
  • the NEXT icon is pressed to continue with the selected video files.
  • the window will change to display Teaser Window 900 in Fig. 9 to display the Teaser file to import.
  • This window allows the user to select teaser AVI video file(s) to import.
  • the file name selected identifies which AVI file is played when the motion sensors are activated.
  • the user can directly type the directory and file name they wish to use or select the file icon to browse their hard drive for the correct file to import. If a duplicate file was used in the Informatiove or Teaser chart, the display device flash memory will automatically only store the duplicate file once to conserve memory and repeatedly play that video as entered. If the "No Teaser Used" box is checked, it will automatically delete all video names entered in the Teaser Window 900 and turn off the motion sensors during operation.
  • Window 1000 in Fig. 10 appears to reveal additional alternate video files triggered by the motion sensors.
  • the display device will play one video. All the video files entered will play in the sequence shown in Window 1000. For example, the first, second and third times the motion sensors detect motion, it will play "Enter Video Name to import”, "Alternate Video 1", “Alternate Video 2" and “Alternate Video 3" respectively. The fourth time the motion sensors detect motion, it will repeat this sequence and so on.
  • file names are not inserted into all locations in Window 1000, only the files included will be played back. For example, if only 2 video files are entered, each time motion is detected, it will alternate playing the 1 of the 2 video files entered.
  • the "End Video For All” area indicates the AVI file that should play after all Teaser videos entered above it. This feature is used to conserve flash memory if a common Teaser ending is used for all Teaser Videos. If no "End Video For All” is entered, then this feature will not be used during operation.
  • the Hide Alt icon can be pressed to go back to the single video file Teaser Window 900.
  • the NEXT icon is pressed, it continues with the video file names selected.
  • the BACK icon moves back one menu screen.
  • the display device preferably has a sleep mode.
  • Exemplary characteristics of the sleep mode are as follows.
  • the motion sensors (and teaser video playback) are turned off for a pre-defined number of minutes X if the motion detector is triggered a pre-defined number of times Y or more within X*Y+ 20 seconds.
  • Button A on the display device continues to work during this time. These settings intend avoid retailer issues when store personnel are situated in front of the unit (i.e. stocking shelves, etc.).
  • a static image or screen saver will appear on the display when entering sleep mode using Window 1100 in Fig. 11.
  • the static image file is imported as a 1 frame AVI file (and stored in the flash as 1 frame) that is repeated at lOfps for 5 seconds.
  • a screen saver is imported as an AVI file having a small number of frames. The user can directly type the directory and file name they wish to use for feature.
  • a preprogrammed Default image will be displayed at lOfps for 5 seconds for this feature. Press NEXT to continue with the video file names selected. Press BACK to move back one menu screen. If buttons are pressed equal to or more than Z times in 90 seconds, the Display device unit will not turn on again for 60 seconds. The motion detector and buttons will not activate during this shut down period.
  • the window will change to display the Timing Select menu 1200 in Fig. 12. This menu allows customization of several timing and other settings that the display device will use during operation.
  • the Volume Level Setting selects whether High, Medium or Low maximum volume is to be used during operation. These volume levels are selected by external resistors that can be tuned subsequent to EP stage.
  • the Min Delay between Motion Detector activations setting states the number of seconds for which the motion sensor will be shut down after it has been triggered. During this shutdown period, the motion sensors and Teaser video(s) will not be activated. Only buttons can be pressed to play informative videos.
  • Motion Detector Sleep Mode settings means that the motion sensors (and
  • the Motion Detector & Button Sleep Mode Settings means that, if push buttons are pressed more than Z times in 90 seconds, the Display device unit will not turn on again for 60 seconds.
  • the motion sensors While in power saving mode, the motion sensors will turn on for 0.10 seconds and then off for 1.0 seconds in an effort to detect customer's presence. If the motion detector is activated (customer is sensed), then the Teaser video will be played. The on and off times above are starting points only and are to be tested and finalized by working samples prior to code release. If user selects a triangle icon next to each setting on the menu above, a drop down menu will appear providing the following options for each setting.
  • the values displayed in the Time Select menu screen should be used as the original Default starting values. If the "Set as Default" box is checked and FINISH icon is selected, the values last used for all settings should become the new Default starting values. Press BACK to move back one menu screen. Press NEXT to continue onto window 1400 in Fig. 14. The window prompts the user to enter the nine digit "Film Number” that identifies which ad placement this data file will be used for. Internally the data file will be recognized by the display device by this Film Number. Also the name of the file exported will be "Filml23456789.RAR" (file extension TBD) with 123456789 being the digit film number entered.
  • Each film number will be associated with a 9 digit Description that is entered in Window 1400. This Description serves as a secondary check that confirms the correct data file video is downloaded for that particular ad placement.
  • Each digit of the Film Number and Description can be entered as either numbers or capitalized letters. The program will automatically change lower case letters to appear as upper case if entered. Press BACK to move back one menu screen. Press FINISH to create and export the data file in a compressed state.
  • a suitable compression algorithm is used that will minimize the size of the data file exported from the PC Conversion software. For example, WinZip can be used or WinRAR can be used which provides a higher level of compression as compared to WinZip.
  • the export file is preferably kept to a size of less than 1 GB.
  • the export file also includes all of the video content files desired for the display device.
  • video files included in the exported file. These video files could for example correspond to a plurality of different products.
  • teaser video included in the export file which is displayed as indicated above.
  • the export file could thus be easily made to correspond to content development cycles commonly utilized in the point-of-purchase advertising industry, such as ad placements, etc. hi particular, the export file can be created by personnel of a company selling products or of an advertising agency.
  • the export file can be installed in the display device in one of two ways.
  • flash memory cards can be produced for each ad cycle, the flash memory cards containing all of the data files segmented in memory for individual transfer as desired to the display device.
  • the number and length of files is limited only by the capacity of the flash memory card. Capacities of up to 4GB are now readily available.
  • the flash memory cards may be produced at a location different than the computer used to produce the export file.
  • the data files in the export file can be zipped together and the zip file can be forwarded by suitable means, such as by email, to the other location.
  • the flash memory cards are suitably packaged with respective labels for easy identification and use by field personnel responsible for transferring the content to the display device.
  • the labels may include a logo or other identifying information, the name and cycle # of the content.
  • the field personnel transfers the data by inserting a flash memory card into the memory card slot of the display device. Using the buttons or on-screen prompts, the field personnel selects the files desired to be transferred to a particular display unit.
  • the flash memory card may contain video files for a variety of products. The field personnel would note the product at which the display device is located and transfer the appropriate video file(s).
  • the flash memory card includes firmware to improve the functionality of the display device, that shall be transferred as well.
  • Security measures may be implemented to ensure that the files are transferred and played only by an authorized display device. Such security measures may include encryption of the video card to prevent use of the files by other devices.
  • a memory card When a memory card is inserted into the display device, it will verify it has the security handshake protocol. The display device will not communicate with any memory card that does not have the security handshake protocol in memory. When the security protocol is verified, it will automatically perform a battery check to determine if the batteries installed in the display device are fresh. This is to eliminate accidentally leaving old batteries in the display device.
  • a screen such as the one shown in Fig. 28 will appear on the Display device screen for 3 seconds. If the battery voltage measured is less than 2.8Volts +/-0.1V, then a screen such as the screen shown in Fig. 29 will appear. Press ENTER to continue (which is Button A) and the display device screen will change to a screen such as the screen shown in Fig. 30.
  • Each memory card will have a Memory Card Name that is a multi-digit number, such as a number with cycle # and year (i.e. 07 and 06 represents the cycle number and year respectively as shown above).
  • the Memory Card Name will be displayed on the display device screen such as shown in Fig. 30.
  • the Display device screen may automatically display 5 data files, with respective film Numbers and linked descriptions on the memory card. These data files may be listed in sequential order by Film Number.
  • buttons on the Display device may be used to enter the film number so the correct data file from the memory card is transferred.
  • the Up Select Button When the Up Select Button is pressed, the display will scroll up through the list of Film Numbers.
  • the Down Select Button is pressed, the display will scroll down through the list of Film Numbers.
  • Button A When Button A is pressed, the device will enter the Film Number selected and move to the next screen.
  • a screen such as that shown in Fig. 31 will appear to confirm the Film # that should be transferred. Pressing the Down Select Button causes the display to go back one screen. Enter is pressed to confirm and continue with the transfer of the Film #, and a window, such as that shown in Fig. 32 with a progress bar along the bottom that moves to the rightwards as more data is transferred, is displayed. When the transfer is complete, a window such as that shown in Fig. 33 is displayed. The display device will not resume normal operation until the memory card is removed.
  • the export file can be transferred to another computer environment, and from there transferred to an appropriate handheld or field-optimized computing device, such as the Fujitsu PC Model#P1510D.
  • the export file can be stored and managed as desired in the other computer environment.
  • the other computing environment may utilize various centralized work order processes for updating a variety of advertisements and the export file for the display device may thus be controlled to be released in the field at the same time as other advertising in a corresponding ad cycle.
  • the handheld computer may be synchronized with the centralized work order processes so that the field personnel transfer files to the display device at a desired date or time.
  • the personal computer that creates the export file may be the same computer used to transfer the files to the display device.
  • different computers are preferably used so that the transferring computer does not have to have extensive video import and processing capabilities and is easy to carry, etc., and the computer used to generate the export file has processing capabilities greater than what can be done in the highly portable computer.
  • An overview of the PC transfer process is shown in Fig. 6B.
  • the portable handheld computer should include software program, which when executed by the computer, allows the selected files to transferred under user control, as well as USB driver software for transferring the files to the display device.
  • the software and USB driver software may be included in the export file or may be separately sent to the handheld computer.
  • the software may be sent automatically or manually.
  • the field personnel runs the transfer software and connects the handheld computer to the USB port 150 of the display device with a USB cable.
  • a security handshake is performed via USB to establish a connection.
  • a window with a user interface appears on the handheld computer.
  • the field personnel operates the handheld computer to transfer the desired files for that specific ad placement to the display device.
  • the transfer software in the handheld computer expands the compressed data file and transfers the uncompressed file as a self-extracting file to the display device.
  • the display device receives the new data file and replaces the old data file with the new data file.
  • the UI window provides any troubleshooting comments, a transfer progress bar and a successful transfer message.
  • the software When executed, the software will automatically begin the following steps to transfer the data file to the display device.
  • the software will first verify that the display device is successfully connected to the PC Handheld using a USB cable. If the USB is successfully connected, an indication to that effect will appear and it will proceed to with the transfer process.
  • a troubleshooting process will start.
  • the computer will remind the user to check the connection to the display device and handheld computer, making sure both ends of the USB cord are fully inserted into the USB sockets of the display device and the handheld computer.
  • An example is shown in Window 1500 in Fig. 15.
  • the software After user presses "Check Again” in Window 1500, the software will verify if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection. If the connection is not successful, another troubleshooting screen may appear, such as the example screen 1600 shown in Fig. 16.
  • the software After user presses Check Again in Window 1600, the software will again verify if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection. If not successful, another troubleshooting screen will appear, such as the screen 1700 shown in Fig. 17. After user presses Check Again in Window 1700, the software will again verify if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection. If not successful, another troubleshooting screen, such as the screen 1800 in Fig. 18, will appear. After the user presses Check Again in screen 1800, it will again verify if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection window. If not, another troubleshooting screen such as the screen 1900 shown in Fig. 19 will appear. After user presses Check Again in screen 1900, the software will again verify if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection. If not successful, another screen such as screen 2000 shown in Fig. 20 will appear
  • the software After user presses Check Again in screen 2000, the software will verify for the last time if the connection is now successful. If so, it will proceed to display that there is a successful USB connection. If not successful, the troubleshooting process will start again with screen 1600 in Fig. 16.
  • a security handshake protocol is executed to verify that the USB device connected to the display device is the handheld computer with the transfer software. If another USB device is plugged into the display device, it will not allow communication or access unless it has the proper security handshake of the transfer software. Once the security handshake protocol is established, the display device screen will turn off to conserve battery life. If another USB device without the security handshake is plugged into the display device, normal operation will continue uninterrupted. See Fig. 21. Next, a battery check is automatically performed to determine if the batteries installed in the display device are fresh. This is to eliminate accidentally leaving old batteries in the Display device. If the battery voltage measured is greater than 2.8Volts +/-0.1V, then a battery check OK screen such as the screen 2200 shown in Fig. 22 will appear.
  • the Transfer Software extracts the compressed data file in the handheld computer for transfer to the display device flash memory.
  • the window appearance will change as shown in Fig. 24 with a progress bar along the bottom that moves to the rightwards as more data is transferred.
  • the window will change as shown in Fig. 25.
  • a screen such as screen 2600 shown in Fig. 26 will appear when the display device flash memory is empty. Screen 2600 will stay on until a handheld computer or memory card with security handshake is used to program its flash memory.
  • a screen such as screen 2700 shown in Fig. 27 will appear if the display device flash memory has been programmed by either a memory card or a handheld computer (via USB).
  • a multi-digit "film number” and “description” in memory will appear on the bottom of the power up screen as shown in screen 2700 by "1234546789" and "TIDEFRESH".
  • This power up screen will stay on until: (i) any button on the display device is pressed, (ii) a handheld computer with security handshake is connected, (iii) a memory card with security handshake is connected, or (iv) until 60 seconds after power up has elapsed. If (i) or (iv) occurs, the display device will resume normal operation.
  • the transfer software in the handheld computer may also include the same sleep mode features as in the PC Conversion software and discussed above with respect to Figs. 11 and 12.
  • the transfer software may also include the speaker volume settings and AGC features as in the PC Conversion software and discussed above with respect to claim 13.
  • the first is extremely low power usage or conversely super-efficient power consumption management. While internal power usage modes and a preferred power conservation regime was discussed above, those of skill in the art will also recognize that the present unit may easily be adapted to operate from a central power (AC) supply - either as a back up or as a main power supply.
  • AC central power
  • the second benefit in the preferred embodiments of the present invention is that no particular external infrastructure is required to update the fields or operational hardware or software, hi other words the electronic controls allow personalized updating on a unit-by-unit basis without the need for a prohibitively expensive wireless transmission and monitoring system joined to a base transmitter external to a retail outlet.
  • the back cover of the device is preferably key locked which guards the valuable battery cells, a USB port and limits unit damage.

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Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif de publicité de point de vente automatisé comprenant au moins un détecteur de mouvement ou une caractéristique de détection, une fonction de gestion d'alimentation permettant de gérer une utilisation d'alimentation en fonction du détecteur du dispositif automatisé qui détermine la présence d'une personne à proximité du dispositif, et un système d'exploitation facilement programmable et reprogrammable. Un circuit de commande connecté au détecteur amène le dispositif à afficher des informations vidéo, à diffuser un son audio, et/ou à créer un effet lumineux. Le dispositif fonctionne également dans différents modes d'alimentation selon, au moins partiellement, la détermination de la présence d'une personne par le détecteur. Le dispositif d'affichage est mis à jour par la connexion d'une carte mémoire ou d'un ordinateur portable et le transfert de fichiers vidéo sur la connexion.
EP07812110A 2006-04-14 2007-06-12 Agencement de détecteur de mouvement pour dispositif de point de vente, dispositif d'affichage automatisé et procédé de mise à jour de contenu pour un dispositif d'affichage automatisé Withdrawn EP2016475A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US79223006P 2006-04-14 2006-04-14
US88804007P 2007-02-02 2007-02-02
US11/735,118 US7865831B2 (en) 2006-04-14 2007-04-13 Method of updating content for an automated display device
US11/735,317 US20080077422A1 (en) 2006-04-14 2007-04-13 Motion Sensor Arrangement for Point of Purchase Device
US11/735,170 US7568116B2 (en) 2006-04-14 2007-04-13 Automated display device
PCT/US2007/070965 WO2007143758A2 (fr) 2006-04-14 2007-06-12 agencement de dÉtecteur de mouvement pour dispositif DE point de vente, dispositif d'affichage automatisÉ et procÉdÉ de mise À jour de contenu pour un dispositif d'affichage automatisÉ

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GB2480462A (en) * 2010-05-19 2011-11-23 Store Display Developments Ltd Electronic display module, in particular, electronic shelf label
CN112486856A (zh) * 2020-11-30 2021-03-12 珠海格力电器股份有限公司 显示扫描控制方法、装置、存储介质及控制设备

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US5566353A (en) * 1994-09-06 1996-10-15 Bylon Company Limited Point of purchase video distribution system
US20030113094A1 (en) * 2001-12-13 2003-06-19 Tewksbury Bart C. Selectable video advertising display system
US20060190750A1 (en) * 2005-02-22 2006-08-24 Logitech Europe S.A. System power management based on motion detection

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Title
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WO2007143758A2 (fr) 2007-12-13

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