GB2530021A - Tablet display device security system - Google Patents

Tablet display device security system Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2530021A
GB2530021A GB1415477.7A GB201415477A GB2530021A GB 2530021 A GB2530021 A GB 2530021A GB 201415477 A GB201415477 A GB 201415477A GB 2530021 A GB2530021 A GB 2530021A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
attachment means
display device
tablet
tablet display
cavity
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Withdrawn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
GB1415477.7A
Other versions
GB201415477D0 (en
Inventor
Thomas Ashley Ballhatchet
Andrew Neil Furner
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.)
SPOTSPOT Ltd
Original Assignee
SPOTSPOT Ltd
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
Application filed by SPOTSPOT Ltd filed Critical SPOTSPOT Ltd
Priority to GB1415477.7A priority Critical patent/GB2530021A/en
Publication of GB201415477D0 publication Critical patent/GB201415477D0/en
Priority to PCT/GB2015/052518 priority patent/WO2016034868A1/en
Publication of GB2530021A publication Critical patent/GB2530021A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16MFRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
    • F16M13/00Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
    • F16M13/02Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
    • F16M13/022Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle repositionable
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B73/00Devices for locking portable objects against unauthorised removal; Miscellaneous locking devices
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05BLOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B73/00Devices for locking portable objects against unauthorised removal; Miscellaneous locking devices
    • E05B73/0082Devices for locking portable objects against unauthorised removal; Miscellaneous locking devices for office machines, e.g. PC's, portable computers, typewriters, calculators
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16MFRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
    • F16M11/00Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
    • F16M11/02Heads
    • F16M11/04Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
    • F16M11/06Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16MFRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
    • F16M11/00Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
    • F16M11/02Heads
    • F16M11/04Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
    • F16M11/06Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting
    • F16M11/10Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting around a horizontal axis
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16MFRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
    • F16M11/00Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
    • F16M11/20Undercarriages with or without wheels
    • F16M11/2007Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment
    • F16M11/2014Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment around a vertical axis
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1626Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1632External expansion units, e.g. docking stations
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F21/00Security arrangements for protecting computers, components thereof, programs or data against unauthorised activity
    • G06F21/30Authentication, i.e. establishing the identity or authorisation of security principals
    • G06F21/44Program or device authentication
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F21/00Security arrangements for protecting computers, components thereof, programs or data against unauthorised activity
    • G06F21/70Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer
    • G06F21/88Detecting or preventing theft or loss

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Software Systems (AREA)
  • Devices For Indicating Variable Information By Combining Individual Elements (AREA)

Abstract

A security system 1 is provided for receiving and securing a tablet display device 23. The system comprises a first attachment such as a dock 3 securable to a surface 10. The dock comprises a housing 31 and a saddle 32 pivotably mounted within the housing. The saddle has a cavity 30. The system further comprises a second attachment such as a foot 4 securable to the tablet display device. The foot is shaped to be received within the cavity. First and second locking arrangements are provided for releasably connecting the first and second attachments and may be a pair of retaining pins located in the cavity of the saddle and a corresponding pair of indents in the foot designed to receive the locking pins. The attachment means may be released by a key or RFID key. A cable connection point maybe provided in the first and second attachment means.

Description

Tablet Display Device Security System
Technical Field
The present invention rdates to a tablet disp'ay device security system. In particular, the present invention relates to a system for releasably attaching a tablet display device to a display surface.
Background to the Invention and Prior Art
Electronic media tablet display devices are an increasingly common feature in places of business such as retail establishments for use by the customers and employees, and can be used as an effective marketing tool for many companies. hi such instances tablet display devices can serve multiple purposes, for example, to provide information, entertainment, advertisement, to provide a point of sale, or any other purpose that may be useful or beneficial to the user.
Benefits of using tablet display devices for such purposes are that they are compact and portable. However, these advantageous features mean that when a tablet display device is on public display, it is at a high risk of theft. Consequently, security measures are required in order to prevent theft, or at the very east delay the thief long enough to then be detained.
Examples of known tablet device display assemblies that include physical security measures include US 20 13/0342087 and US 8,542,495.
Although known security measures for tablet display devices are capable of securing tablet display devices in public locations whilst still enabling use of the tablet display device, they are commonly unattractive, and unadaptable to the user's needs. They are often secured in such a way that it is difficult to insert or remove the tablet display device, which may be necessary in order to charge or clean the device. Being removable also helps shop staff to assist customers with theft purchases with the aid of the mobile tablet device (assisted selling). Being removable also allows a tablet device to perform different functions in the one environment depending on what is required, for example, for assisted selling, as a simple display screen, or as a point-of sale device etc.
Summary of Invention
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a secure enclosure for a tablet display device comprising a first attachment means securable to a surface, the first attachment means comprising a housing and a saddle pivotably mounted within the housing, the saddle having a first cavity, a second attachment means securahie to the tablet display device, the second attachment means having a portion shaped to he received within the first cavity, and a first locking alTangement for releasably connecting the first and second attachment means.
According to one embodiment, the first locking arrangement comprises first locking parts forming part of the first attachment means and second locking parts forming part of the second attachment means, wherein the first and second locking parts are cooperative with each other.
In other embodiments, the first cavity is elongate and the first locking parts are located at opposed ends of the first cavity, and the second attachment means is elongate and the second locking parts are located at opposed ends of the second attachment means.
hi further embodiments, the first locking parts comprise a pair of retaining pins and the second locking parts comprise a corresponding pair of indents. Preferably. one or both of the retaining pins arc sprung oadcd.
According to another embodiment, the tablet display device enclosure further comprises a pair of swing arms and associated actuators, the swing arms and actuators heing configured to move the swing arms from a first position, located behind the sprung loaded retaining pins, to a second position which is clear of the sprung loaded retaining pins.
The first and second locking parts may be locked by insertion when the first attachment means and the second attachment means are connected.
In one embodiment, the second attachment means is released from the first attachment means by insertion of a key associated with the first thcking arrangement.
According to a further embodiment, the first attachment means further comprises an RFID antenna, and wherein the second attachment means is released from the first attachment means by means of an RFID key in communication with the RFID antenna.
hi some embodiments, the second attachment means comprises a second cavity suitable for at least partially enclosing at least one cable connectable to the tablet display device.
The first attachment means may further comprise at least one cable connection point and the second attachment means may further comprise at least one cable connector.
The at least one cable connector and the at least one cable connection point may be in alignment when the first and second attachment means are connected.
According to one preferred embodiment, the at least one cable connection point is a sprung pin connector and the at least one cable connector is a sprung pin connector plate.
The second attachment means may hc connectable to the first attachment means in at least two orientations.
According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a secure enclosure for a tablet display device further comprising a case defining a tablet cavity for receiving said tablet display device, the second attachment means forming part of the case, and a faceplate for closing the tablet cavity. Preferably. the second attachment means comprises a second locking arrangement arranged to secure the tablet display device within the case.
In one embodiment, the first attachment means is connected via at least one cable to a power source and the power source is disposed in a secure box which is mounted on a first side of a surface opposed to a second side of the surface to which the first attachment means is to be secured.
In further embodiments, the first attachment means further comprises a Bluctooth (RTM) chip module, wherein the Bluetooth chip module is capable of communication with a gee-active communication system to determine the location of the second attachment means with respect to the location of the first attachment means.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The present invention will now be descnbed by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tablet display device security system according to a first embodinient of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of a dock of the system of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a rear view of a tablet device case of the system of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a top view of the dock of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a side partly sectional view of the system of Figure 1; Figure 6 is a rear view of a tablet device security system according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a section view of the dock of the system of Figure 1; Figure 8 is a side view of the tablet device security system of Figure 1 when the dock is connected to the case in a first orientation; Figure 9 is a side view of the tablet device security system of Figure 1 when the dock is connected to the case in a second onentaticil; Figure 10 is a front view of an example tablet device case to he used in embodiments of the present invention; Figure 11 is a first rear view of a tablet device according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 is a second rear view of the tablet device according to the third embodiment; Figure 13 is a rear view of a tablet display device of a tablet display device security system according to a fourth embodiment; Figure 14 is a perspective rear view of the tablet display device according to the fourth embodiment; Figure 15 is a perspective rear view of the system of Figure 13; Figure 16 is a perspective view showing an example of a tablet device security system; Figure 17 is a perspective view of a dock of a tablet device security system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention: and Figure 18 shows an example of peripherals that may he used in conjunction with the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description of the Drawings
Figure 1 iflustrates a tablet display device security system I comprising a tablet device enclosure 2 and a dock 3. The tablet display device enclosure 2 comprises a case 21 and a faceplate 22 which is releasally attached to the ease 21, defining a cavity therehetween to receive a tablet display device 23 (shown in Figure 5). The case 21 includes a foot 4 which extends from a body 20 of the case 21.
As shown in Figure 2. the dock 3 comprises a housing 31 and a saddle 32 pivotably mounted within the housing 31. The housing 31 further functions as a ease for internal components of the dock 3. The dock 3 provides a secure docking point or first attachment means for the tablet display device enclosure 2 that is compact and aesthetically pleasing when the tablet display device enclosure 2 is disengaged from the dock 3, for example when the enclosure 2 is used as a mobile device. The housing 31 of the dock 3 is to he secured to a surface, for example, a table, shop counter, wall, or any fiat surface suitable for mounting the dock 3 using, for example, bolts or screws (not shown). The pivotable saddle 32 has a cavity 30, the shape of which matches that of the foot 4 such that the foot 4 fits snugly into the cavity 30.
Features of the foot 4 are shown further in Figure 3. The foot 4 is formed integrally with the case body 20 and configured to provide a second attachment. means for securing the tablet display device enclosure 2 to the first attachment means of the dock 3. The foot 4 is elongate and has an internal cavity 42, as shown in Figure 5, that is arranged to house at least a first tablet device cable 43 connectable to the tablet display device 23 housed in the tablet display device enclosure 2. It is appreciated. however, that other components may he housed in the internal cavity 42, such as further tablet device cables.
As shown in Figures 3 and 5, the foot 4 further includes a first tablet device cable connector 40a and a second tablet device cable connector 40b for the first tablet device cable 43 housed within the internal cavity 42. The tablet device cable connectors 40a-h are sprung pin connector plates such as those sold by Yokowo Co., Ltd.. As further shown by Figure 7. the dock 3 comprises a second tablet device cable 35 in a dock base 3 lb and which extends from a dock mounting plate 3 le. The second tablet device cable 35 is coupled to a first printed circuit board (PCB) 36a mounted in the dock base 31 b, which is coupled to a second printed circuit board PCB) 36b via a PCB connector cable 36c. The second PCB 36b is connected to a first tablet device cable connector 34a protruding from the pivotable saddle 32 into the first cavity 30, wherein the tablet device cable connector 34a is rotatable with (lie pivotable saddle 32. The second PCB 36b may also be coupled to a second tablet device connector 34b, which enables the tablet display device 23 to be mounted to the dock 3 from either direction, such that the tablet device cable connector plates 40a-b (as shown by Figure 3) are in alignment with either of the first and second tablet device cable connectors 34a-h. A through ho'e is formed in the surface to which the dock 3 is secured so that the second tablet device cable 35 may be threaded through the surface, or routed along the top of the surface, and connected to a power source or other computer hardware via a further tablet device cable connector (not shown) at the end of the second tablet device cable 35.
When the foot 4 is inserted into the dock 3, the first tablet device caNe connectors 34a is aligned with and connected to the tablet device cable connector plate 40a of the first tablet device cable 43 connected to the tablet device 23. As is known in the art, the first tablet device cable 43 may he utilised to provide power to the tablet display device 23 and/or a data connection froni the tablet display device 23 to another device. For example. the first tablet device cable 43 may take audio and/or data from the tablet display device 23 to the dock 3 and beyond. Alternatively, if the foot 4 is inserted into the dock 3 from the opposite direction, the second tablet device cable connector 34b is aligned with and connected to the tablet device cable connector plate 40a. This configuration enables the foot 4 to be connected to the dock 3 in one of two 180° spaced orientations. That is to say, the tablet display device enclosure 2 may be connected from both sides of the dock 3. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the dock 3 may comprise a single tablet device cable connector 34 that is located centrally, with a single tablet device cable connector plate 40 on the foot 4 also in a centralised location, such that tablet device cable connector 34 and tafflet device cable connector plate 40 are always in alignment.
The dock 3 and the foot 4 as shown in Figures 1 to 4 are releasably connected via a first locking arrangement comprising of a first pair of locking parts 33a-b and a second pair of locking parts 41a-b cooperatively arranged. The first pair of locking parts 33a-b are located at opposed ends of the dock 3 and include protrusions. In a first configuration, as shown by Figure 7. the first locking parts 33a-b are sprung loaded retaining pins, each with an associated locking pin spring 38a-b, that engage with the second locking parts 4 la-b, which are located at opposed ends of the elongate foot 4 and comprise indents, to retain the foot 4 witlun the cavity 30 of the saddle 32. The first locking parts 33a-b and second locking parts 41a-b are engaged with each other by insertion when the dock 3 and the foot 4 are connected. For example. the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b at each end of the dock 3 may engage with the indents on the foot 4, exerting a force on the foot 4 and automaticafly holding the tablet display device 23 in place. The parts 41a-b (indents) of the second locking parts 41a-b are identical and the foot 4 is symmetrical along its axis between these locking parts 41a-b so that the foot 4 can be inserted into the saddle 32 in one of two arrangements. i.e., with the part 41a engaging with the lock part 33a and the part 41h engaging with the part 33h or with the part 41a engaging with the part 33b and the part 41b engaging with the lock part 33a.
As shown in Figure 7, the dock 3 further compnscs a first and second swing arms 39a-b, which are housed within a dock frame 3 ld and concealed by a dock cover 3 la. The first and second swing arms 39a-h are configured to move from a first position, located directly behind the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b at each end of the dock 3. to a second position which is clear of the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b. The first and second swing arms 39a-b are coupled to first and second actuators 39c-d respectively.
The first and second actuators 39c-d are arranged to move the first and second swing arms 39a-b between their first and second positions.
Before the tablet display device enclosure 2 has been inserted into the dock 3, the first and second swing arms 39a-b are in their second position, clear of the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-h. When the loot 4 is initially inserted into the dock 3, the loot pushes the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-h outwards against the force of the locking pin springs 33a-b. thereby pushing the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b into the void vacated by the first and second swing arms 39a-b. Once the foot 4 has been fully inserted into the dock, the locking pin springs 33a-h urge the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b towards each other and at the same time an electrical connection is made between the tablet device cable connector 34a of the dock 3 and the tablet device cable connector plate 40a of the foot 4. When the system recognises that this electrical connection has been made the system actuates the first and second actuators 39c-d to rotate the first and second swing arms 39a-b from their second position, clear of the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b. to their first position, located directly behind the first locking parts 33a-b, restricting their backwards movement by creating a compressive stack belund the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b. As a result. the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b are locked in place, preventing the tablet display device 23 from being removed from the dock 3. Note that before the system has recognised that an electrical connection has been made between the connectors 34a. 40 the tablet display device enclosure 2 can he removed from the dock 3 by puffing the foot 4 out of the saddle cavity 30, thereby pushing the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b apart against the biasing force of the locking pin springs 33a-b. hi this manner the tablet display device enclosure 2 is held in place in the dock 3. and the actuation of the first and second swing arms 39a-h is used to lock the tahkt display device enclosure 2 in place. The system can be configured to automatically lock the tablet display device enclosure 2 in place a predetermined period of time after electrical connection is detected. e.g., 10 seconds, 20 seconds or a minute.
In one embodiment, shown by Figure 6, the first locking arrangement further comprises a Radio Frequency Identification (REID) antenna (not shown) and an RFID fob 37 is associated with the REID antenna, the RFID fob being kept in the possession of a particular person, for example, a member of staff. The REID key fob 37 is held within
S
close range of the RFID antenna, which causes the RFID antenna to actuate the first and second actuators 39c-d such that they rotate the first and second swing arms 39a-b which are then withdrawn from behind the first locking parts 33a-b, enabling the foot 4 to be removed from the cavity 30 of (he saddle 32. In doing this, the tablet display device enclosure 2 may then he used as a mobile device with the user being free to walk around with the tablet display device enclosure 2 in their hands.
hi an alternative embodiment, one part 33a of the first locking parts 33a-b further comprises a lock 33a', as illustrated in Figure 8. A key (not shown) may be associated with the one part 33a. In a first configuration, the first and second locking parts 33a-h engage with a corresponding part 41a-b of (he second locking parts 41a-b to retain the foot 4 within the cavity 30 of the dock 3, as described in the above embodiment. hi a second configuration, the key is inserted mb the lock 33a' associated with locking part 33a, which then activates the first and second actuators 39c-d to release the first and second swing arms 39a-b such that the first and second locking parts 33a-b arc withdrawn from the corresponding part 4la-b of the second locking parts 4la-b to release the foot 4 within the cavity 30 of the saddle 3. In doing this, the tablet display device enclosure 2 may then be used as a mobile device with the user being free to walk around with the tablet display device enclosure 2 in their hands.
The pivotablc saddle 32 of the dock 3, shown by Figures 1, 2 and 5, is arranged such that when the foot 4 and the dock 3 are connected, the pivotable saddle 32 may be rotated within (he housing 31(0 pivot the tablet display device enclosure 2. This allows the user to view and interact with the screen of the tablet display device 23 at different angles, as demonstrated by Figures 8 and 9, for reasons such as the height of the user, or glare from overhead lights. The pivotable saddle 32 and housing 31 are arranged with a resistive means such that when the screen is tilted by the user it remains in that position until its position is adjusted further by the user. The resistive means may be in the form of a friction fit between these parts or by means of protrusions on one part which engage with one or more grooves on the other part, so that the case 2 and the saddle 3 may he positioned at a number of relative rotations or clicks'. The advantage of this arrangement is that the tablet display device enclosure 2 will not easily slip out of the preferred position whilst it is being used until a force is exerted by the user.
The foot 4 niay further comprise a second locking arrangement 45, as illustrated in Figure 3, so as to secure the first tablet device cable 43 inside the internal cavity 42 and secure the tablet display device 23 inside the tablet device casing 21, wherein a second key (not shown) associated with the second locking arrangement 45 may be used to open the tablet device casing 21, allowing the user to access the tablet display device 23 if, for example. the tablet display device 23 is faulty and needs to be repaired or replaced. Alternatively, the second locking arrangement 45 may comprise a button release mechanism which may he pressed to open the tablet device easing 21.
As stated above, the tablet display device enclosure 2, shown by way of example in Figure 10, comprises a case (not shown) and a faceplate 22. The faceplate 22 has a through hole for accessing the touchscreen of the tablet device 23. The tablet device enclosure 2 may have a number of different configurations to suit the needs of the various tablet device 23 makes and models available on the market. For example, as shown in Figure 10, the faceplate 22 may include notches 24 for access to control features on the tablet device 23. Further features of the tablet device enclosure 2 may include an opening for a headphone jack, an opening for a camera device, or any other features to accoimnodate the development of tablet design.
In a third enibodiment, illustrated in Figures 11 and 12, the foot 4 as described above may be secured directly onto a tablet device 23. This may be done, for example, using a high bond double sided adhesive tape. Once the foot 4 is securely attached to the tablet device 23 it can be mated to a dock 3 in the same manner as described above. Such an arrangement may he preferable where it is desirable that the whole tablet display device 23 can he seen, for example. in a retail store selling tablet devices. The first tablet display device cable 43 housed inside the foot 4 may then also exit out of a second connection exit point 46 and connect to the tablet display device 23, as shown in Figure II. When the first tablet display device cable 43 is not in use such that it is not connected to the tablet display device 23, the first tablet device cable 43 may be retracted into the foot 4, as shown in Figure 12. in order to hide the tablet display device cable 43 and avoid the cable 43 dangling, which may look unsightly.
Figure 15 illustrates part of a tablet display device security system 5 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment a reinforced tablet device cable 6 runs through a first connection exit point 44, as further illustrated by Figures 13 and 14, and connects to an external connection point via a tablet display device connector 61. Preferably, the reinforced tablet device cable 6 includes a cut resistant material such as a steel braid which is securely tethered to the inside of the tablet device case 21, and connects to the tablet display device 23 as demonstrated by Figure 5. Allernativdy, the reinforced tablet device caMe 6 maybe securely fixed to the inside of the foot 4 which is attached directly on to a tablet display device 23, as illustrated by Figure 11 and 12. The reinforced tablet display device cable 6 may then he anchored to an anchorage point via a loop of cable 62. allowing the user to move around with the tablet display device enclosure 2 with some degree of freedom, but without being able to walk away from the anchorage point. Preferably. the anchorage point is inaccessible, to deter theft of the tablet display device enclosure 2.
Figure 16 provides an example of a security system 7 according to embodiments of the present invention. The security system 7 may include a first tafflet device security system 1 comprising a dock 3 and a tablet device enclosure 2 comprising a foot 4, wherein the foot 4 is releasably connectable to the dock 3. The dock 3 is anchored to a surface 10, for example, a table, shop counter, wall, or any flat surface suitable for niounting the first tablet device security assembly 1 using. for example. bolts or screws (not shown). As shown in Figure 5, the second tablet cable connector 34 may be connected to a second tablet display device cable 35 which extends out of the base of the housing 31. The second tablet display device cable 35 may then be fed through an aperture in the surface 10 to he connected to any external power sources, other computer hardware or an hiternet connection. In this respect, the security system 7 may include a power safe box 8 containing an external power source 81 or other computer hardware, to which the tablet display device assembly 1 may be connected securely via the tablet display device cable 35. The power safe hox 8 provides a secure enclosure that may be mounted under a surface 10 allowing the tablet display device security systems 1, 5 to be connected without the need for routing any tablet display device cables to remote power points, thus extending the life ol the tablet device 23 batteries whilst on display. The security system 7 may also include a second tablet device security system 5, as illustrated by Figures 13 and 15, in which the tablet display device security assembly S is anchored to the power safe box 8 by the reinforced tablet display device cable 6 fed through an aperture in the surface 10.
In a further embodiment as shown by Figure 17, the dock 3 niay further comprise a USB Hub 9 which acts as a physical base for the dock 3 and provides connection to any third party peripherals that may be used in conjunction with the tablet display device 23. As exemplified by Figure 18, these peripherals may include primers 90. cash drawers 91, scanners 92, or any other apparatus capable of being connected to a tablet display device. This is particularly useful for tablet display devices that are used to make sales, or provide other sales or marketing materials to the user. Alternatively, the USB Huh 9 may he separate from the dock 3 and mounted to a surface, for example, below the surface to which a tablet device security assembly, such as those shown in Figure 16, is secured.
A further feature that may be incorporated into the invention described herein, is the use of a low energy Bluetooth (RTM) chip. lii this respect, a Bluetooth chip module (not shown) with a unique identification number may he located in the dock 3. The owner of a tablet display device security system according to embodiments of the invention may then use this identification number to link the dock 3 to a location based geo-active content system. The system can then sense the relative distance from the dock 3 to the tablet display device 23. wherein a second Bluetooth chip is embedded in the tablet display device 23 as is common in most commercial tablet devices, as well as the distance to the Bluetooth chip located in the mobile devices of consumers in a particular public space, for example, the mobile phones of shoppers within a certain area of a retail outlet. By using multiple Bluetooth chips, the system can start to triangulate signals to determine the location of mobile devices within the particular space. This distance and location data can then be used in a number of ways.
Firstly, the tablet display device 23 within the tablet display device enclosure 21 can be used to show content specific to an area of a space, for example. display shoe product information in the shoe department of a retail store, activate the sales function of a computer application when docked in connection with a sales point, or put the tablet display device 23 to sleep when docked in a storage space, and the like.
The tablet display device 23 within the tablet display device endosure 21 can he used to track how customers, via their mobile phone devices. and staff move within a store.
This information can then be analysed for marketing purposes. Additionally, the tablet display device 23 within the tablet display device enclosure 21 may also be used to show content specific to a customer, based on the presence of their mobile phone.
Various modifications will be apparent to those in the art and it is desired to include all such modifications as fall within the scope of the accompanying claims.
For example, in the first embodiment the foot 4 is formed integrally with the case body 20. In alternative embodiments the foot 4 may be formed separately from the case body 20 and attached thereto during assembly of the case 2.
Additionally, in all embodiments described herein, the foot 4 may be positioned in a portrait orientation with respect to the tablet display device 23. such that the orientation of the foot 4 shown in Figures 1 -16 may he rotated by 90°.

Claims (24)

  1. CLAIMS1. A tablet display device security system for receiving and securing a tablet display device, the system comprising: a first attachment means securable to a surface, the first attachment means comprising a housing and a saddle pivotahly mounted within the housing. die saddle having a first cavity; a second attachment means securable to the tablet display device, the second attachment means having a portion shaped to be received within the first cavity; and a first locking arrangement for releasably connecting the first and second attachment means.
  2. 2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the first locking arrangement comprises first locking parts forming part of the first attachment means and second locking parts forming part of the second attachment means, wherein the first and second thcking parts are cooperative with each other.
  3. 3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the first cavity is elongate and the first locking parts are located at opposed ends of the first cavity.
  4. 4. A system according to claims 2 or 3, wherein the second attachment means is elongate and the second locking parts are located at opposed ends of the second attachment means.
  5. 5. A system according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the first locking parts comprise a pair of retaining pins and the second locking parts comprise a corresponding pair of indents.
  6. 6. A systeni according to claim 5. wherein one or both of the retaining pins arc sprung loaded.
  7. 7. A system according to claim 6, further comprising a pair of swing arms and associated actuators, the swing arms and actuators being configured to move the swing arms from a first position. located behind the sprung loaded retaining pins, to a second position which is clear of the sprung loaded retaining pins.
  8. 8. A system according to any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the first and second locking parts are locked by insertion when the first attachment means and the second attachment means are connected.
  9. 9. A system according to my of claims 2 of 8, wherein the second attachment means is released from the first attachment means by insertion of a key associated with the first locking arrangement.
  10. 10. A system according to any of claims 2 lo 8, wherein the first attachment means further comprises an RFID antenna, and wherein the second attachment means is released from the first attachment means by means of an RFID key iii communication with the REID antenna.
  11. 11. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the second attachment means comprises a second cavity suitable for at least partially enclosing at least one cable connectable to (he tablet display device.
  12. 12. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first attachment means further comprises at least one cable connection point. and wherein the second attachment.means further comprises at least one caNe connector.
  13. 13. A system according to claim 12. wherein the at least one cable connector and the at least one cable connection point are in alignment when the first. and second attachment means are connected.
  14. 14. A system according to claims 12 or 13, wherein the at least one cable connection point is sprung pin connector, and wherein the at least one cable connector is a sprung pin connector plate.
  15. 15. A system according to any preceding claims, wherein the second attachment means is connectable to the first attachment means in at least two orientations.
  16. 16. A system according to any preceding claims and further comprising a case defining a tablet cavity for receiving said tablet display device, the second attachment means forming part of the case; and a faceplate for closing the tablet cavity.
  17. 17. A system according to claim 16, wherein the second attachment means comprises a second locking arrangement llTanged to secure the tablet display device within the case.
  18. 18. A system according to any preceding daim, wherein the first attachment means is connected via at least one cable to a power source.
  19. 19. A system according to claim 18. wherein the power source is disposed in a secure box which is mounted on a first side of a surface opposed to a second side of the surface to which the first attachment means is to be secured.
  20. 20. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first attachment means further comprises a Bluetooth chip module.
  21. 21. A system according to claim 20, wherein the Bluetooth chip module is capable of communication with a geo-active communication system to determine the location of the second attachment means with respect to the location of the first attachment means.
  22. 22. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 1 to 9.
  23. 23. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 11 and 12.
  24. 24. A tablet display device security system as hereinhefore described with reference to Figures 13 to 15.
GB1415477.7A 2014-09-02 2014-09-02 Tablet display device security system Withdrawn GB2530021A (en)

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GB1415477.7A GB2530021A (en) 2014-09-02 2014-09-02 Tablet display device security system
PCT/GB2015/052518 WO2016034868A1 (en) 2014-09-02 2015-09-01 Tablet display device security system

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GB1415477.7A GB2530021A (en) 2014-09-02 2014-09-02 Tablet display device security system

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GB2530021A true GB2530021A (en) 2016-03-16

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DE102019103648A1 (en) * 2019-02-13 2020-08-13 Dula-Werke Dustmann & Co. Gmbh Device for holding and securing at least one object of value on a piece of furniture or part of a piece of furniture and part of a piece of furniture
US11740657B2 (en) 2018-12-19 2023-08-29 Targus International Llc Display and docking apparatus for a portable electronic device

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US20120267491A1 (en) * 2011-04-19 2012-10-25 Chiu Ronald On Ho Locking device
US20130026322A1 (en) * 2011-07-25 2013-01-31 Merchandising Technologies, Inc. Rotational Mount For Hand-Held Electronics
WO2014151743A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-25 Lilitab LLC Docking apparatus

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120267491A1 (en) * 2011-04-19 2012-10-25 Chiu Ronald On Ho Locking device
US20130026322A1 (en) * 2011-07-25 2013-01-31 Merchandising Technologies, Inc. Rotational Mount For Hand-Held Electronics
WO2014151743A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-25 Lilitab LLC Docking apparatus

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11740657B2 (en) 2018-12-19 2023-08-29 Targus International Llc Display and docking apparatus for a portable electronic device
GB2594173B (en) * 2018-12-19 2023-10-04 Targus International Llc Display and docking apparatus for a portable electronic device
DE102019103648A1 (en) * 2019-02-13 2020-08-13 Dula-Werke Dustmann & Co. Gmbh Device for holding and securing at least one object of value on a piece of furniture or part of a piece of furniture and part of a piece of furniture
EP3696780A1 (en) * 2019-02-13 2020-08-19 Dula-Werke Dustmann & Co. GmbH Device for holding and securing at least one object of value on a piece of furniture or part of a piece of furniture, and part of a piece of furniture

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