TWI556535B - Display for hand-held electronics - Google Patents

Description

Display rack for handheld electronic devices

The invention described herein relates to a display shelf that is designed to provide operational power and security against a handheld electronic device for sale in a retail environment.

The industry of retail display stands for the creation and service of handheld electronic devices has evolved into a complex industry. "Big Box" and other large electronics retailers are major industry consumers. A typical display rack is a countertop type display rack that involves a large number of handheld electronic devices being mounted to the work surface via posts or similar types of mounting structures.

Mr. Roger Leyden was an early inventor of the display shelf assembly of the countertop, which was originally used to install a film camera at a retail location. U.S. Patent No. 5,861,807 ("Leyden '807" for short) is typical and describes a mounting body carrying a camera. The installation main system is lifted from a pedestal or similar support so that the camera can be viewed by potential buyers. The pedestal is one of many that will be mounted to a display shelf surface.

Mr. Leyden also utilizes a retractor having one or more wires that are fed up to the mounting body. Historically, Leyden has received several patents on display rack design during the period before the advent of digital cameras, mobile phones and PDAs. In the At the time, the security of theft is a major consideration, rather than supplying operating power to the device. The film camera did not have an important operational power requirement at the time. Therefore, Leyden '807 (for example) is intended to focus on security measures, which is still important today, although power supplies to individual devices have evolved over the past decade because of handheld technologies and products. The way has been of higher importance.

As far as security is concerned, the Leyden '807 is still a viable design from the point of view of the primary security sensor cable from a mounting body connected to a camera. The security sensor is powered by a tether from under the counter. The tether provides physical security and electrical signals or power lines necessary to drive the sensor.

Since a large number of devices are mounted on modern display racks, each device of the tether will have the problem of cable entanglement. Leyden may or may not first solve this problem by utilizing a cable reel as a secured tether system in which an alarm is triggered if the cable or secondary cable connection is severed. . However, this development has led to the use of cable "retractors" in the industry.

When the expanded use of digital cameras and mobile phones, along with new mobile phone designs, entered the market in the late 1990s, it created the need to provide operational power and security features to individual pillar locations on large retail displays. Other related issues that were developed at the time involved the burden placed on local salespeople, which needed to be replaced when the new handheld model replaced the old model or when the retailer changed the brand mix for sale. The power supply in the display rack has changed.

As far as the average salesperson is concerned, the exchange of different hand-held models between many pillar positions creates management problems for the power cable, especially when having different power fittings. Handheld devices with different voltage requirements are exchanged at the same pillar position. Replacing products with different operating voltages and power socket connectors requires continuous changes in cabling that will multiply many times depending on the number of products on the display rack. This is a very complicated situation when the inventory loops.

Therefore, in about 1999-2000, the predecessor of Merchandising Technologies, Inc. ("MTI") developed a "universal" mounting pallet (puck) that involved the use of a connection to the power supply. The single voltage line of the tray is retractable, thus eliminating the need to change the power cable upstream of the position of the tray as the product model changes. In other words, the "universal" design provides a general strut position with a retractable tether, where the replacement of the product to and from the post does not require changes to the wiring under the work surface of the display. However, the single voltage supply line to the tray remains part of a multi-conductor retractor cable in which there are still other lines providing parallel circuits; one for power and the other for earlier Like the design of Leyden '807 for individually feeding power to the security sensor (or "preservation signal").

As part of the general design, the MTI also appears that the development of the industry to "Smart Cable ^TM" the famously, its short lines as a power adapter (Adapter) cable, the cable system will power adapter (from the retractor The power cord receives a voltage drop in the tray to meet the specific power requirements of the handheld device. When changing products, the salesman Just pick the right "Smart Cable ^TM" to match the product can be. Thus, the product is connected to a unique "Smart Cable ^TM" minor maintenance and reconnection sensor cable (if used) into lines only need to replace the salesperson having the designed product MTI thing.

In about 1998, Telefonix, Inc. designed a "modular connection" Adapter "configured adapter cable. This design multiplies the number of individual power lines or conductors within the expander cable, each of which supplies a unique voltage. The design is described in US Patent No. 6,386,906 ("Burke '906").

The Burke '906 adapter cable does allow for the exchange of one hand-held device with another hand-held device to and from a post position, and in this respect, satisfies the power of different hand-held devices at the same post position demand. However, Burke '906 is not a good market because it relies on a mechanical "pin" connection to switch on the specific line voltage provided by the retractor cable; in other words, if a new device with other operating voltages is required There is no easy way to adapt.

The early design of MTI became the standard in the industry. However, although Burke '906 and MTI's earlier designs provided different ways to deal with the problem of replacing the power supply of handheld devices on display shelves, they share some similar techniques associated with multi-conductor retractors. problem. This problem is related to "physical" preservation, where the retailer wants the handheld device to be tethered to the display rack in a way that makes it difficult to actually remove the handheld device, whether or not there is or how much electricity The sexual protection sensor is used. A typical multi-conductor retractor provides the functionality of this tether. However, the tether is not as strong as the steel cable tether used in the retail industry in the early years (before the appearance of the electric security sensor like Leyden '807). Steel cable tethers are gradually being used in the display rack industry because, apparently, they lack wiring and therefore lack the ability to conduct power and preserve signals to the position of the mounting tray.

Another problem with multi-conductor retractors is the wear and tear experienced by these retractors during repeated cycles in which the consumer lifts and rests the pallet to its original position on the display shelf. Because the retractors are generally low voltage systems, the mechanical Wear and tear sometimes change the voltage transmitted through the wires or cause a short circuit. Although today's problems are smaller than they were a decade ago, at a point in the development of these products, the handheld devices being installed were sensitive to relatively small voltage variations in the power supply.

All of the above represents various technical issues that accompany the development of the consumer handheld device market and the retailer's need to display the powered products in an attractive manner while still maintaining the need for anti-theft protection.

There has been a long felt need in the retail display rack industry for the complete elimination of multi-conductor retractors. However, the retail display rack also needs to continue to provide device power and security functions at the tray location.

The design improvements disclosed herein provide different solutions that have been developed and defined in different sets of patent claims for the public to follow. These improvements are improvements that have been developed by MTI from about a decade ago.

The following is a summary of the various improvements disclosed in this document.

First and foremost, this disclosure relates to retail display racks for a large number of handheld electronic devices intended for sale at "Big Box" retailers and similar retail outlets. A retail display rack of this type can be used to sell a wide variety of devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, PDAs, video recorders, handheld GPS devices, tablet devices, and other types of handheld devices. Electronic device. The display rack is also well-suited for displaying new or new handheld consumer electronics products that may appear in the market in the future.

Although this is not always the case, the display rack improvements disclosed herein will generally be implemented as part of a "worktop" display rack that is called by many (or plural) It is composed of individual product positions of "pillars" or "pillar positions". This involves installing each handheld device device to the display rack by a physical strut assembly or other infrastructure that is actually attached or mounted to the work surface. Sometimes the countertop is a flat surface, sometimes involving a stepped display rack surface or the like. Instead of a countertop, sometimes the handheld devices are displayed on a ledge at a retail outlet. For example, display racks for ledges are more common in mobile phone stores.

It is also common for such display racks to be connected to a source module under a counter. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that source modules provide security and power connections to individual pillar locations. There are many variations to accomplishing this in this way.

For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "power signal" means to refer to an electrical connection or electrical coupling that provides a hand-held device or other component that operates the electrical power to a position associated with a display rack post. Similarly, the term "preservation signal" refers to an electrical connection or electrical coupling to a security sensor, or a secondary security sensor cable or the like. These types of naming conventions are common in both the industry and patent literature on retail display stands. Occasionally, the term "power source" is used herein to refer to a source of electrical power for operating a handheld device or other component described herein.

According to the improvements described herein, the transmission of a signal indicating the preservation of the breach is done "wirelessly". The present disclosure focuses on the functionality of "wireless" security as one of a group of novel features defined in the scope of the patentable patent application. The disclosure herein also focuses on different "wireless" power functions, including charging/power functions for the electronic device and "wireless" for monitoring the "lifting" of the handheld device from the display shelf. Features. This document is intended to supplement the earlier versions and the disclosure of the information. Expected that it In the past, it may result in a patent application scope group after the division application.

In view of the above, according to the improvements described herein, the power supply to individual handheld devices does not necessarily involve or require a continuous and complete source module (or other power source) and the electronic device. Wire-to-wire cable connection (as an alternative to the conventional display design of a multi-conductor retractor).

Related wireless functions, and with reference to the Burke '906 patent as a basis for comparison with conventional techniques, Burke '906 relies on a power module and one or more under one counter via one of a multi-conductor retractor A circuit of continuous hardware wiring between electronic handheld devices. In Burke '906, a hard-wired circuit is placed upstream of the mounting member of the hand-held device by conductors (wires) in the multi-conductor retractor that provide the required The electrical connection is necessary. It should be mentioned that the disclosure in Burke '906 focuses on providing operational power to the handheld device. However, Burke also describes the preservation of sensor signals and security features.

In a mounting member portion (the "tray") of a display rack post, it is common to use a pressure type of safety sensor switch at the interface location where the hand held device is mounted to the tray. For any reason, removal of the handheld device from the interface location triggers a mechanical release or switch in which the handheld device is in contact with the tray. In previous designs, this resulted in a detectable preserved corruption signal by interrupting the circuitry defined by the circuit connection between the tray and the hardware connection between the source or control module under the counter.

Similarly, it is common to use a secondary security sensor cable that electrically couples the tray to the handheld device. Secondary sensors are used as one of the primary safety sensors, which are typically located at the interface between the tray and the handheld device. The secondary sensors are typically in the form of a short, secondary cable sensor type that interconnects the tray and device as disclosed in the '807 patent to Leyden. Either way, in past designs, the security alarm signal was transmitted to the source module below the work surface by interrupting a hard-wired circuit that must be generated or transmitted via a multi-conductor retractor. Or other security electronic devices.

In contrast, one of the aspects in which the present disclosure differs from the prior art is to eliminate the line between the power source and the tray, which means that the multi-conductor retractor no longer needs to tether to the tray. . In a preferred embodiment, this is accomplished by replacing a conventional multi-conductor retractor with a mechanical reel (e.g., a braided steel cable).

In this regard, it should be understood that the term "mechanical reel" expressly refers to a reel mechanism, rather than a "multi-conductor" reel, which utilizes a steel or metal cable or the like instead of one. Multi-conductor (ie, multi-wire) retractor for individual wires. A steel cable system provides far better physical preservation than a retractor cable consisting of only thin wires. There may be other materials to replace steel that provide the same level of physical preservation. Either way, the disclosure can be combined with a high degree of physical security (ie, the cable is difficult to cut) without a hardware or wire-to-wire mechanism and still provide a modern display stand. Required power and security requirements. The use of a non-conductive tether to provide power and security is outlined below.

In this design, the tray carries its own electronics board or "ECB". The tray electronics located on the ECB are system control electronics for detecting and communicating via a wireless device to preserve the destruction event to the display shelf under the work surface or elsewhere. The wireless transmission of the security event can be achieved in different ways.

One way is to involve a completely wireless communication that preserves the destruction signal. A small transmitter or antenna that is located in the tray itself and may be carried by the ECB. In another embodiment, the steel cable in the mechanical retractor is used as a transmitting antenna. One way to achieve this last function is to place a toroidal coil in the base portion of the strut assembly such that the toroidal coil surrounds a portion of the steel cable. The toroidal coil picks up or detects a change in electromagnetic variation in a cable that delivers a preserved damage condition (eg, by a pressure sensor on the tray or a secondary sensor cable) The line is disconnected and triggered).

Another feature of the present disclosure relates to a cable management device that operates from a single source of power supply (provided by a source module or other power source located below the work surface). This is particularly applicable if a mechanical reel is used at a post position because the steel cable in the reel is not capable of adequately transmitting a supply voltage to the tray.

Unlike previous designs, in this case, a single source power signal provides the power needed to drive the handheld device or drive any of the tray electronics (again, the tray acts as a handheld The installation components of the equipment) everything needed for the power required.

The tray electronics will provide a security implementation and other functions that can be implemented at the pallet level. Thus, in this case, a single power cord can supply all of the necessary power to provide the power, security, or any other electrical function that is implemented at the level of the pallet in place of the conventional design, a conventional design using one Another way of describing a "multi-conductor" retractor or the like is the power line circuit to the tray for handheld device power and another power line circuit for transferring power to power the sensor.

Again, in this case, the single source or single circuit power is distributed or distributed at the tray level to drive the power function of the handheld device and any security sensors. This effectively makes the tray a general platform position with a universal power source. The universal power source has been transferred from a position below the work surface to the upper tray for replacing the handheld device having different power requirements and changing the security sensor at the tray level as needed. In this manner, the use of a single source of power to drive power and security at the tray level is believed to be unique.

When the tray is stationary on the display shelf, a portion of the power signal is distributed to the handheld device as a "passed power" by the tray electronics at the tray level. In many cases (eg, a mobile phone), the handheld device carries its own battery, the battery is charged via the tray, and then the device is lifted and operated by the consumer at the display rack Supply operating power. Thus, in this particular case, the "passed" power is driven more or less in the same manner as an individual adapter/charger typically provided by the manufacturer of the handheld device. An electronic device in the device itself and/or an electronic device that charges the battery of the handheld device. Meanwhile, the role of the tray system is a universal power adapter via the above-described type for "Smart Cable ^TM" or other design of the tray is mounted to any and all of a handheld device.

Some of the features disclosed herein can be used outside of the tethered system architecture. The retailer will most likely want the tray to be mechanically tethered to the display rack in the manner described above for reasons other than physical preservation. However, there are other embodiments of the entities disclosed herein that can ultimately prove that mechanical tethers are even unnecessary.

First, as noted above, no electrical or electrical signals are transmitted to the tray via the mechanical tether (when used) because it lacks wires. Instead, the tray has spring contacts to mate with complementary contacts in the base portion of the strut assembly where the tray is typically stationary. Only the base portion of the strut assembly is hardwired to the source module or It's similar to the power supply. When the tray is stationary, and when the spring contacts are in electrical contact, any power signal supplied via the power source will then be supplied to the tray. At the same time, the power of a single circuit is supplied to the ECB of the tray at a sufficiently high voltage and current level to charge any type of handheld device that will be mounted to the tray and drive any at the pallet level Security features.

The handheld device has a unique adapter cable to electrically couple the handheld device to a power connector on the tray. To depress the supply voltage at the tray, or to adjust it to match the power requirements of the handheld device, the adapter cable is provided with a unique critical circuit to adjust the tray power to meet the needs of the handheld device. In a preferred form, this is accomplished by incorporating a resistor circuit into the adapter cable to match the tray voltage to the power requirements of the handheld device.

In order to facilitate the replacement of one type of handheld device with another type (eg, having different power requirements), each type of handheld device will be supplied with its own unique adapter cable, the adapter cable The cable has the correct power socket connector (if needed) and an appropriate resistor value to step down the voltage available from the tray electronics.

Likewise, when the tray is at rest, the contacts of the strut assemblies are contacted and power is passed to the tray, via the ECB, and then through the electronic device of the handheld device, where it is passed to The voltage of the handheld device is adjusted via the adapter cable. In the "in a stationary" position, the battery of the handheld device is charged in a manner that simulates being inserted into a conventional adapter cable, and when the tray is lifted from the display shelf, the post assembly The contacts are interrupted and the handheld device is powered only by the battery of the handheld device when viewed by the consumer.

Thus, in accordance with a variation in the present disclosure, the tray distributes power to the internal battery of the handheld device when the device is at rest. As described above, when the tray is lifted, the battery of the handheld device acts as a source of operating power in the same manner as the consumer uses the device.

However, because the security sensor is not self-powered, the ECB or tray is independently loaded with its own battery, as the case may be. When the tray is at rest, the tray battery is similarly charged, and the electronic device of the tray can be individually driven after the tray is lifted.

In yet another version, certain types of handheld devices will not be displayed with their own internal batteries. In this case, the device has been powered by a multi-conductor retractor in the past by a wire directly to the power socket connector of the device. In a display rack such as a digital video recorder, this is a common and conventional implementation. In this case, it is feasible to design the footprint of the tray such that it carries a sufficiently large battery to simultaneously drive the handheld device and other tray electronics while the tray is in the "lift" mode. . Other power storage devices can also be used in place of a battery, such as a large capacitor.

As a further alternative, it is possible to eliminate a mechanical reel and replace it with another type of tether cable that provides the same tether function, but does not have to first release the cable and then return on the product. The display rack retracts the reel of the cable. An example of an alternative configuration would be a short "curly-Q" rope in which there is no electrical function or wire. With the development of materials technology, fiber optic cables can be used as tethers, where the cable transmits digital signals that are not used for power.

At present, it is believed that for the type of display shelf type disclosed herein (i.e., the retailer), it may be desirable to have a sense of security provided by the physical preservation of a mechanical tether. However, the wireless security feature provided by this design allows for the complete elimination of any tethers, if desired.

Since the pallet carries its own electronics board, it is possible to generate a signal that uniquely identifies a particular pillar position, whether or not the unique signal is a security signal or is useful to the retailer. Other types of information signals.

For example, when the post joints are disconnected as the tray is lifted, it is feasible to use this event to trigger different types of display rack functions. In essence, the tray can wirelessly transmit a signal identifying a lift condition at the particular post position. This signal is uniquely identifiable and can be utilized in media displays.

It is common to run media content on a display rack, which can be a combination of visual media displays and/or audio media running on a screen. The only identifiable trigger signal from a pillar position can be utilized to trigger a particular visual or audio medium that is adapted for the branded product at the pillar location. In other words, for example, the retailer can recognize that a particular camera brand is installed on the pillar "A". When the struts are triggered by a single signal, the controlled electronic device can cause a particular advertisement for the brand or handheld model to be played while the consumer is viewing it. Likewise, when the product is placed back and a different product is lifted, a new uniquely identifiable signal is sent wirelessly for the different media content to be displayed. This configuration creates a useful set of sales features that combine the advantages of sales, security, and the ability to replace older handheld models with new ones as technology changes or new models are developed.

Utilizing wireless signals to identify activity at different pillar locations opens up additional functionality that may be useful to retailers. For example, a retailer can track the number of "lifts" at each strut for a given period of time. This type of information reveals whether those brands are the most popular, or whether certain physical locations on the display shelf are better than others, regardless of brand or price.

For retailers, it would be feasible to develop a single pillar plan or "planogram" that is generally applicable to each display rack in each store, thus eliminating individual programs in each store. The need for media content. The ability to transmit a unique signal identifying a marketing activity at a particular pillar location makes it feasible to convert the signal into a corresponding media event.

As indicated above, prior art display frames rely on multi-conductor cables that are included as part of a reel assembly for providing power and electricity via wire-to-wire connections. The security signal is sent to the mounting member or tray. In other words, the retractor carries a pair of wires for a power circuit connected to a power outlet of the handheld device and a pair of wires for a security circuit that drives a sense of security in the tray. Detector, or a primary security cable, or both. An advantage of the present invention is that only a power source or circuit from under the work surface is required to facilitate driving power and security functions originating from the tray location. Furthermore, since power can be supplied when the tray is "stationary", the power supply under the counter is not required in the "lift" mode, so the necessity of using a multi-conductor retractor is eliminated. Instead, a mechanical retractor with a steel cable can be utilized.

Another alternative to the development of the update involves the inclusion of fully "wireless" functionality into the system components described above. In place of the charging contacts outlined above, via the use of an inductive power It is feasible for the transmitter to transmit power "wirelessly" close to an inductive power receiver. The transmitter and receiver are typically in the form of a conductor with a coil. By coupling the inductive power transmitter to a power source and similarly coupling the inductive power receiver to the handheld device, power can be transmitted for charging the handheld device or operating other functions.

For example, in one embodiment, the inductive power transmitter can be placed in a mounting base clamp that receives the tray when the tray is stationary on the work surface. The tray can carry the inductive power receiver such that when the tray is actually stationary, the two inductive coils (i.e., the transmitter and receiver) are not close enough to allow power sensing to be transmitted into the tray. In such a case, for example, power can be passed directly to the handheld device mounted to the tray or to an intermediate storage device such as a battery held within the housing of the tray.

Alternatively, instead of using an adapter cable between the tray and the handheld device, power can be further wirelessly transmitted between the tray and the device. In this case, another inductive power transmitter is located in a support or upper surface of the tray in which the device is stationary, and an inductive power receiver is disposed in the device itself.

In this final version, existing batteries and electronic components in the device can be utilized for charging or security functions.

The features just outlined provide a completely "wireless" means to effectively eliminate many or all of the wiring used in conventional retail security systems. As will be further described below, for example, the wireless connections can be utilized to supplement or even replace the secondary security cable. Similarly, the use of inductive transmitters and receivers provides a means for monitoring the "lift" function. And finally, the fully wireless system can eliminate mechanical tethers as a whole.

The foregoing summary of the invention will be more apparent from the understanding of the appended claims.

10‧‧‧ Pillar/pillar assembly

10A-10H‧‧‧ Pillar Assembly

12‧‧‧Base components

14‧‧‧Tray components

16‧‧‧Base part

18‧‧‧Working surface

20‧‧‧Flange

22‧‧‧Threaded parts

24‧‧‧ bracket

26‧‧‧Mechanical retractor

28‧‧‧Steel cable

30‧‧‧Retractor housing

32‧‧‧ring coil

34‧‧‧Electrical components

36‧‧‧Board components

38‧‧‧ Cable

40‧‧‧The lower part

42‧‧‧ Space

44‧‧‧ upper part

46‧‧‧Handheld devices

48‧‧‧Location of spring contacts

50‧‧‧ring plate/ring part

52‧‧‧ slots

54‧‧‧Spring contacts

56‧‧‧Contacts

58‧‧‧Electronic device control panel (ECB)

60‧‧‧ components

62‧‧‧Wire assembly

64‧‧‧Clamping structure

66‧‧‧ top surface

68‧‧‧Wire assembly

70‧‧‧Connector connector

72‧‧‧ Adapter cable

74‧‧‧Power socket

76‧‧‧Battery

78‧‧‧Second adapter cable

80‧‧‧ source module

82‧‧‧Battery

84‧‧‧Secondary protection sensor/minor cable

86‧‧‧Connectors

88‧‧‧Outside

90‧‧‧ Pressure pad

92‧‧‧ cable belt

94‧‧‧ Cable belt

96‧‧‧ Pressure button

98‧‧‧Flexible cable

100A-H‧‧‧ low voltage connector

102‧‧‧Control Module

104‧‧‧Terminal block

106‧‧‧Terminal block

108‧‧‧Keypad

110‧‧‧Power adapter

112‧‧‧Power adapter

114‧‧‧Backup battery

116‧‧‧Power extension cord

118‧‧‧Power supply

120‧‧‧Logical cable

122‧‧‧Control Module/UIM Module

124‧‧‧ Cable assembly

126‧‧‧ Cable assembly

128‧‧‧Media Player

130‧‧‧Power supply

132‧‧‧Power cord

134‧‧‧ screen

136‧‧‧Play dynamic ads when no trays are lifted

138‧‧‧Play the product media file when the consumer lifts the tray

148‧‧‧Internet

150‧‧‧Media content

152‧‧‧Media storage

154‧‧‧Light ring

156‧‧‧ Has the product been removed from the tray?

158‧‧‧ Is the tray that was activated removed from the display rack?

160‧‧‧ Is the retractor cable cut?

162‧‧ Is the secondary security sensor removed or removed?

164‧‧‧ Is the product incorrectly installed?

166‧‧‧ Is the pallet operation malfunctioning?

168‧‧‧Inductive Transmitter Coil

170‧‧‧ wire

172‧‧‧Inductive Receiver Coil

174‧‧‧Wire

176‧‧‧ upper surface

178‧‧‧ pads

180‧‧‧Induction coil transmitter

182‧‧‧ individual film pads

184‧‧‧ Covering board

186‧‧ Covering plate 184 removed from the device

188‧‧‧Induction coil receiver

190‧‧‧Working surface

192‧‧‧ surface area

194‧‧‧Surface area/transmission coil

196‧‧‧Surface area/tether

198‧‧‧Surface area/anchor

250‧‧‧ Cable assembly

252‧‧‧Connector/wafer

In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout the various views, and wherein: FIG. 1 is a drawing of a "pillar" position for mounting an electronic handheld device to a retail display rack, where Figure 2 is a drawing of the device shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in Figure 2; Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of the device shown in Figure 2 , but depicting the transmission of power from a power source "wireless" to the electronic handheld device; FIG. 3B is an enlarged cross-sectional view from a cut portion of FIG. 3A and depicting wirelessly transmitting power to an electronic handheld device The proximity of the device to the inductive transmitting and receiving coils; Figure 3C is similar to Figure 3A, but showing a "tray" or mounting member lifted from a base member; Figure 4 is the strut position depicted in Figures 1-3 An exploded view of the mounting member or "tray" portion; Figure 5 is a view of the tray and base member portion of the strut depicted in Figures 1-3; Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 5, but showing the "pillar" a base portion of the position in which the tray is partially sectioned ; Figure 7 is a view similar to Figure 5-6, but showing a part of the base line portion of the member is removed; FIG. 8 is a strut shown in FIG. 1 in an exploded view; Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a display rack constructed in accordance with the present invention, and which schematically depicts a plurality of post positions connected to a supply module; Figure 10 is a view similar to Figure 9, but depicting the power supply of the present invention 1 is a drawing of a top end portion of a pillar; FIG. 12 is a flow chart for explaining a warning alarm condition; FIG. 13 is a connection of FIG. 12; FIG. 14A is a series of electronic devices depicted in the tray portion of the present invention. The first of the two circuit diagrams; Fig. 14B is a circuit diagram continued from Fig. 14A; Fig. 15 is a flow chart depicting the selected warning condition for the display rack; Fig. 16 is a flow chart similar to Fig. 15; 15 is a flow chart similar to that of FIGS. 15-17; FIG. 19 is a top view of a pillar position, and schematically depicts an interconnection between a tray and an electronic device; 20 is a view similar to that of FIG. 19, but which depicts how a device can be exchanged with and removed from another strut; FIG. 20A is a view similar to FIG. 20, but depicting a "wireless" embodiment; FIG. Is the view of a source/alarm module Figure 22 is a view similar to Figure 9 and depicting a display rack system having a plurality of post positions and a display monitor that displays the media based on which electronic device is viewed by the consumer. content; 22A is a view similar to FIG. 22, and depicts a "wireless" display rack system; FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram depicting the function of the display rack of the present invention; FIG. 23A is a view similar to FIG. 23 and depicting the present invention Schematic diagram of the "wireless" display rack function; Fig. 24 is a flow chart depicting the logic of the display rack function; Fig. 25 is a flow chart similar to Fig. 24; Fig. 26 is a diagram showing how variable development is possible for independent pillar positions Media content; Figure 27 is a schematic diagram depicting the "wireless" and "lift" functions from the countertop pad to an electronic handheld device; Figure 28 is an enlarged view of a section of the countertop surface shown in Figure 27. Figure 29 is a side view of Figure 28; Figure 30 is a drawing of a wireless inductive power transmitter located in an upper surface of a tray; Figure 31 is a drawing of the tray shown in Figure 30, but above Partially viewed to depict the ECB board therein; Figure 32 is a schematic diagram depicting the position of an inductive power receiver within a handheld device; Figure 33 is an illustration of an alternative tray embodiment showing the tray from a Electronic device separation; And FIG. 34 is a plot of the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, which show the system tray is mounted to the electronic device.

In the drawings, and initially with reference to Fig. 1, generally shown at 10 is an improved display rack strut assembly constructed in accordance with various design modifications described and claimed herein. The post assembly 10 includes a base assembly portion (generally indicated at 12) and a tray assembly portion (generally indicated at 14).

First, starting from the base assembly 12, the display rack post 10 includes a base assembly portion or fitting 16 that is mounted to a display counter surface 18 of the display. The base portion 16 has an annular flange 20 disposed on the top end of the surface 18. Extending downwardly from the annular flange 20 is a threaded portion 22 carrying a bracket 24. The bracket 24 is further loaded with a mechanical retractor (generally indicated at 26).

The mechanical retractor 26 is conventional in design and includes a spring loaded steel cable (generally indicated at 28) that is lengthened as the tray assembly 14 is lifted from the base assembly 12 and returned Upon the base assembly 12, the retractor housing 30 is pulled out and returned to the retractor housing 30. The general construction of the mechanical retractor 26 (with steel cable) will be familiar to those skilled in the art. However, a toroidal coil 32 is attached to an upper portion of the housing 30 of the retractor. The toroidal coil 32 surrounds the steel cable 28. Its function is further described later.

A further electrical component (generally indicated at 34) is mounted to a circuit board assembly 36 on the reel housing 30. When the tray assembly 14 is resting on the substrate 16, the components are electrically connected to the tray assembly 14 via a cable 38 to a source module under the work surface (described later).

Turning now to the tray assembly 14, it includes a set of lower portions 40 that are introduced into the space in the base portion 20 (generally indicated by arrow 42). The upper portion of the tray (indicated at 44) houses a tray electronics control panel or "ECB" which will be described in the context of other application diagrams later. The tray assembly 14 carries a handheld device 46, the hand The holding device 46 is mounted to the tray assembly 14 in a conventional manner known to those skilled in the art of countertop display.

FIG. 2 depicts a strut assembly 10 having a variation on the mounting bracket 24. Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2. However, FIG. 3 is axially sectioned along the length of the strut assembly 10 and reveals the location of the spring contacts (approximately indicated at 48) that is provided for supplying power to the tray assembly 14 s method. These contacts will now be described with reference to FIG.

Note that Figure 7 depicts an annular plate 50 (which is also shown in Figure 3). The annular plate or portion 50 is placed within the lower portion of the threaded portion 22 of the substrate. The lower portion 40 of the tray assembly 14 has a slot 52 (see, for example, Figure 8). Preferably, the slots 52 are distributed around the perimeter of the portion 40 and slid over a set of complementary spring contacts 54 located on the annular portion 50. There are different variations on how this can be done. As depicted in Figures 7 and 8, the spring contacts 54 on the annular portion 50 are "mother". The lower portion or member 40 of the tray assembly 14 carries a "male" joint 56 (see Figure 8). When the tray assembly 14 is stationary in the base portion 20, the male contacts 56 are in contact with the female contacts 54. At this point in time, an electrical connection is made between the tray 14 and the substrate 16.

Turning now to Figure 8, which is an exploded view, the male contacts 56 are coupled to an electronic device control board ("ECB") 58 via assembly 60. The ECB 58, which will be further described later, is present within the tray portion 44.

Another lead assembly 62 connects the female contacts 54 to the circuit board 36, which is typically placed over the mechanical extender 26. The second lead assembly is further connected to a cable 38 that connects the strut assembly 10 to the above as mentioned above A source module or other under-the-counter control electronics (described later). It should be noted at this point that the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8 includes a clamping structure 64 or the like that holds the base portion 20 in place relative to the bracket 24.

Figure 8 also provides a good view of one of the ECB 58 and other component portions located within the tray assembly 14. A more important feature of one of the designs described herein is that after the consumer lifts the tray from the base assembly 12, the tray continues to be in an active operating state.

As noted above, when a "lift" event occurs, the electrical connections created by spring contacts 54 and 56 are interrupted. The only power cord connection from the counter down to the tray occurs when the tray assembly or tray 14 is at rest (e.g., as shown in Figures 2, 3 and 5-6). At this point, the wiring assembly defined by the series connections of cables 38, 62, and 60 provides a power lead circuit (single source power) from the counter to the ECB 58. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the strut assembly 10 operates on a DC voltage. Therefore, the circuit needs to be defined by a line in the cable just described, and a line produces a "ground". This circuit is the only wire-to-wire connection between the control electronics that occurs under the counter and the tray assembly 14, and it only occurs when the tray is "stationary".

The design provides a sufficiently high voltage and amperage at the tray or ECB 58 level to operate any type of handheld device that can be mounted to the top surface 66 of the tray assembly 14. For example, the voltage provided at the level of the tray can be as high as 18 volts. Assuming that the amperage is sufficient, if the voltage is stepped down from the tray assembly 14 (as will be described later), then this voltage is sufficient to operate the various types of handheld devices available today.

The reader is noted in Figure 19, with arrow 68 generally indicating the wire assembly described above that provides power to the ECB 58 while the tray is stationary. At this point in time, the ECB 58 A circuit is provided having the voltage passed to a connector connector 70 on one side of the tray 14. According to a preferred embodiment, a short adapter cable, generally indicated at 72, interconnects the tray connector 70 and the power outlet on the handheld device 46. The power outlet of the handheld device is indicated generally at 74.

Referring now to Figure 20, the adapter cable 22 has a unique critical circuit or resistor circuit (R1) that adjusts the voltage supplied by the ECB 58 to the particular power requirements of the handheld device 46. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, for example, a typical mobile phone operates at a different voltage than one of a video player.

The adapter cable 72 connects the ECB 58 to the battery 76 inside the handheld device. Of course, this is the rechargeable battery 76. When the tray assembly 46 is in the "lift" mode, the battery 76 of the handheld device allows the consumer to operate the handheld device on the tray, so the consumer can check the display of the handheld device, how its buttons act ,and many more.

As previously indicated in this disclosure, one of the overall advantages of the strut assemblies described herein is that it provides a way for the salesperson to easily exchange different hand held devices 46 to and from the post assembly position. This is schematically indicated in Figure 20 by the second adapter cable 78. The second adapter cable 78 will have a different resistance value (R2) that steps down the voltage from the ECB 58 to a uniquely different level. Therefore, the retailer or the retailer's salesperson only needs to select the appropriate adapter cable corresponding to the model or brand of the handheld device, and by simply removing and replacing the handheld from the upper surface 46 of the tray. Equipment to replace each other.

In Fig. 20, arrow 80 generally represents a source module 80 under the counter (further described below). Power from the source module 80 is distributed by the ECB 58. It passes through a portion to the handheld device 46 and another portion to the ECB circuit (see Figures 14A-B) and a battery 82. The battery 82 is also depicted in FIG. Its size will vary depending on the application or the physical footprint of the tray assembly 14.

When the tray assembly 14 is at rest, the tray battery 82 is also charged by the ECB circuit. When lifted, the tray battery 82 is coupled to drive the ECB electronics, which will include one or more security sensors. Referring to Figure 4, for example, it is common to use a secondary security sensor as depicted generally at 84. This type of security sensor will be connected to the ECB 58 via a connector 86 (see, for example, Figure 6). As shown in FIG. 4, an outer end 88 of the secondary cable 84 can include a pressure type sensor having a pressure pad or pressure button disposed against one side of the handheld device 46. . The pressure pad portion is generally indicated at 90 in Figure 4. The pressure pad 90 can be held in place by a cable strap 92 that surrounds the handheld device 46. Similarly, the handheld device 46 can be held at an appropriate location against the top surface 66 of the tray assembly 14 via another cable strip 94.

It is also common to use another security sensor at the interface between the handheld device 46 and the top surface 66 of the tray. FIG. 4 depicts a pressure button 96 that is depressed when the handheld device 46 is mounted to the tray assembly 14. Another illustration of the pressure button 96 is shown in Figure 6, where the ECB 58 is also revealed.

The pressure button 96 is released when the handheld device 46 is removed. The disconnection of the secondary sensor cable 84 or the release of the pressure button 96 triggers a hold signal that is transmitted in the manner described below.

Referring again to Figure 19, arrow 98 generally indicates that one corresponds to the mechanical extension The line of cable 28 carried by the reducer 26 is shown. As noted above, and with continued reference to Figure 19, the retractor cable 98 is preferably a braided steel cable for mechanical preservation purposes. Although not sufficient or suitable for acting as a typical conductor (e.g., for transmitting power or maintaining a signal), the cable 98 (see Figure 19) can still function as an antenna. Thus, the ECB electronics (see Figures 14A-B) are designed to apply an electromagnetic signal to the cable 98. In this manner, the cable 98 thus acts as a transmitting antenna, with variations in the electromagnetic signal acting as a means of communicating various types of information.

An obvious piece of information communicated by the ECB 58 is related to a security breach condition that may be triggered by the secondary security cable 84 or the pressure button 96 described above. In other words, assuming that the user attempts and successfully removes the handheld device 46 from the tray assembly 14, the depressed pressure button 96 will be released, thereby triggering a signal to be picked up by the ECB board. Thus, this will cause a change in the sender of the antenna generated by the cable 98 of the mechanical retractor.

It is recognized that the above described wireless functions can be handled in other ways, for example, by creating a small antenna on the tray ECB board 58. However, many of the problems associated with display rack technology of the type described herein have been related to persistent reliability issues. The strut components need to be operated without maintenance for a long period of time. Maintenance is a problem for retailers because these systems are becoming highly complex, and when serious technical problems occur, retailers lack the ability or means to fix them. Accordingly, it is believed that the creation of an antenna structure in the form of a mechanical steel expander cable is a highly reliable way to generate electronic signals over a long period of time without failure. As indicated above, the signal transmitted by the cable/antenna 98 is applied by a toroidal coil 32 located on the mechanical retractor 26 (see, for example, Figures 19 and 1). Pick up.

The reader is now directed to Figure 9, which depicts a configuration that reflects a summary of a typical display rack installation at a retail location. The previously described strut assembly 10 is depicted in Figure 9, with additional letter numbers (10A, 10B, etc.) reflecting the different numbers used in the posts of a typical display rack. For example, where the reference to the pillar "A" is mentioned, the pillar "A" means the pillar assembly 10A in Fig. 9, and so on.

In the previous description of Figures 1 and 8, the cable 38 is described as part of an integral wiring assembly that connects each of the post assemblies 10 to a source that is typically located below the work surface of the display shelf. Or control module. In Fig. 9, reference numeral 38 is an outline of the cable just described for each of the strut assemblies 10A-10H. Each cable is coupled to one of the conventional low voltage connectors 100A-H on a control module 102.

An enlarged view of one of the control modules 102 is depicted in FIG. The control module 102 can have terminal blocks 104, 106. As indicated generally at 108 in Figure 9, a small keyboard system makes it possible to set the activation of a remote alarm if desired.

Turning now to Figure 10, the control module is powered by conventional means and, preferably, operates to have a different power adapter for driving different functions from the control module 102 (e.g., Low voltage system for power supply of backup batteries) 110, 112. It will be apparent that the power source for a single source to each of the strut assemblies 10 as described above is derived from the control module 102. However, as will be further described later, the control module 102 can also function as a signal for other signals (i.e., triggering display of media content) depending on which trays 14 are lifted from a different post position. Dispenser. The control module 102 can have its own backup battery 114 in the event of a power failure. Or yes, the entire control system can be from one The conventional power extension cord 116 is driven to be familiar to those skilled in the art. At this point, it should be mentioned that the arrow 118 in Fig. 9 generally refers to the characteristics of the power supply described above in relation to Fig. 9.

Referring now to Figure 22, for example, the control module 102 (labeled "alarm" module, which is a way of referring to the "control" module) is coupled to another control module via a logic cable 120 (" UIM") 122. Another wiring component for the cable assemblies 124, 126 interconnects the UIM module 122 to a media player 128 or the like. The media player 128 will typically have its own power supply 130.

The post assembly position 10B in Figure 22 represents a typical tray "lift" condition. When this occurs, the spring contacts 54, 56 of the strut assembly are interrupted. The ECB board 58 in the tray detects the interruption of the contacts 54, 56 and generates an appropriate signal indicating "lift" to the controller 102. Although this can be achieved in different ways, it is preferred that the signal is via a cable/antenna 98 to the toroidal coil 32 located on the mechanical retractor (see, for example, Figures 1 and 8) (see Figure 19). ) to pass it.

Referring again briefly to Figure 8, for example, the toroidal coil 32 is fastened to a circuit board 36 on the top end of the mechanical retractor 26. Cable 38 is a multi-conductor cable interconnecting circuit board 36 with controller 102. Thus, the security signal (eg, via toroidal coil 32) and the power signal are transmitted between the mechanical retractor position 26 and the controller 102 via a "multi-conductor" cable. However, and with reference to Figure 1, the power is supplied via a single source or a single line indicated by element symbol 62. In other words, arrow 132 indicates a power line from circuit board 36 to spring contacts 54, 56 within the tray assembly 10 as previously described.

Referring back to the media player 128, when the tray at the post position 10B is raised, the controller 102 detects the lift signal and passes it to the media player. The UIM module 122 essentially converts the signal and instructs the media player 128 to play content that is already uniquely mapped to the pillar position 10B.

For example, if the post position 10B carries a camera of a particular style, model or brand, the media player 128 is instructed to play pre-stored content for that particular device. The media content can be visually displayed via a conventional screen 134 or it can be combined with audio content that is broadcast from a local speaker (not shown) to illustrate the unique features of the device.

It is recognized at this point that when the strut assembly 10 described herein is implemented in an integrated system as depicted in Figure 22, it provides the retailer with a truly versatile system. When the system is installed, the permanent components are composed of the under-the-counter control module, the media content player (or player), and the hardware configuration of the pillars. What remains for the retailer is to switch to or from the pillar position, or to add or delete media content that is connected to individual pillar locations.

Figure 23 depicts another variation of the system described above. It is possible to program media content in different ways at the shelf level. In a preferred version, for any display rack having a screen 134, even if no tray is lifted at any of the pillars or "SKU" positions, there will always be content to play on the screen (arrow 136). . According to the above system, when a "lift" is detected at any particular post position, a particular media file at that location can be played, as indicated at 138.

One advantage of the system is that it is via the Internet as indicated at 148. Or other means to interface with a display rack at any particular store and media content generated and provided at a remote location is possible. In this manner, and for large retailers who will have their own media department, the retailer can, in particular, combine media content 150 at a separate company location and send it from media storage 152 to individual Display racks (at different store locations). This can be done in different ways, including adjusting the content one by one, or generally formulating ("shelf maps") all of the pillar positions. Regarding the latter concept, some retailers can install the same display racks with the same configuration and number of pillar positions, screens, and the like in various stores. In such a case, it is possible to develop a general plan, as shown in Figure 26, where the retailer or supplier can generate a media plan that selectively controls the position of all of the pillars. At the same time, the salesperson is only instructed as to which handheld device model needs to be installed in a certain location. In other words, a central company location can provide a single or multiple orders to its display rack, which only tells the salesperson what type of camera and power adapter cable to place at each post location (in the camera and tray) between). The media content is then automatically supplied via the internet or similar. Figure 24-25 is a diagrammatic representation of the control logic for the system just described.

Next, returning to Figure 22, in the preferred version, each tray assembly 14 will carry a light ring 154 that can be utilized to visually output certain types of security alarm conditions or other warnings. For example, each of the light ring positions 154 can output a different flash sequence that is triggered by a different security breach event. Referring to Figures 12 and 13, for example, the light rings can be programmed to flash (156) because of certain events such as removal of the product from the tray; an activated tray is removed from the display ( 158); cut-off of the mechanical retractor cable (160); removal of the secondary or other security sensor (162); incorrect product installation (164); or other types of failed tray operations Instructions (166). Figure 12-13 depicts flowchart logic for implementing the system. The audio alert can be triggered simultaneously with a flashing light ring. It is recognized that the light ring is built into the tray assembly in accordance with the design described herein. Therefore, it can be driven by the ECB battery 82 (described previously).

Finally, the light ring system 154 can also be used to indicate a wide variety of warnings that convey whether each of the post positions are operating correctly. These warnings can range from a steady light output at each post position (this indicates that the tray assembly 14 is ready and charging at the post position when stationary), or no light (this indicates a lack of power) Different types of flash and/or alarm cycles can also be used to indicate different types of warning conditions, as reflected in Figures 15-18.

The previous description discloses a display rack struts system in which the power contacts are "wire-to-wire" when the tray 14 is stationary in the substrate 16. Alternatively, it is possible to provide all of the power (for the above-described devices and security functions) in a completely "wireless" manner. This will now be described with reference to Figures 3A-3C, 20A, 22A, 23A and 27-32.

In essence, this last disclosure involves "powering" power from a power source (such as the previously described source module 80 under the counter) to the tray 14 as a first power transfer stage. Second, power can be transferred "wirelessly" from the tray 14 to the handheld device 46. As described below, this is achieved via an inductive transmitter and receiver coil.

Referring now to Figure 3A, the base portion 16 can be constructed to have an inductive coil (generally indicated at 168) that is built into the body of the base portion 16, or is equivalent in an equivalent manner. Configuration. When the tray assembly 14 is at rest, the coil is constructed A wire 170 of 168 surrounds the lower portion 40 of the tray assembly 14. Similarly, the lower portion 40 of the tray contains an inductive "receiving" coil (generally indicated at 172 in Figures 3A-3C).

When the tray assembly 14 is stationary in the position shown in FIG. 3A, the wire 174 of the inductive "receiver" coil 172 that is formed in the tray 14 is an inductive "transmitter" coil that is physically surrounding the base portion 116. Near 168 (or wire 170). The wireless transmission of the inductive power is an alternative to the previously described spring contacts 54, 56 and does completely eliminate the use of the spring contacts.

Thus, when the tray 14 is at rest, power from the source module 80 is sensed and "wirelessly" sent to the tray (and the ECB board 58 of the tray) to achieve the same function as described above. Similarly, when the tray 14 is lifted from the substrate 16, the inductive electrical coupling is interrupted by the physical separation of the coils 170, 174 (see Figure 3C). However, there is no power transmission from a physical electrical contact from a source under a counter at any time.

The second stage involves placing a second set of induction coils on the upper surface of the electronic handheld device 46 and the tray 14. Referring briefly to Figures 30 and 32, for example, the upper surface 176 of the tray 14 carries a pad 178. Embedded in pad 178 is another inductive coil transmitter indicated by dashed line 180. Arrow 182 generally shows the pad that is separated from the tray 14 into a single piece. Figure 31 depicts the top end portion of the tray 14 removed such that the previously described ECB panel 58 is exposed for viewing.

Figure 32 is a schematic depiction of a cover panel on the back side of the electronic device 46. Arrow 186 is an overview representative of the removal of the cover panel 184 from the device. The cover panel 184 carries an inductive coil receiver indicated by dashed line 188 for the handheld device 46 to receive power from the tray 14.

When the handheld device 46 is mounted to the tray 14 in the manner described above, the coil 188 in the handheld device is relatively close to the transmitting coil 180 in the tray 14. This enables a "wireless" power transfer between the trays and the electronic device described above, thereby eliminating not only the previously described adapter cable 72 (depicted in Figure 20), but also eliminating any secondary security. Sensor cable. In other words, referring to FIG. 20A, charging the battery 76 of the handheld device via power inductive transmission between the coil 180 in the tray 14 and the coil 188 in the handheld device 46 is entirely feasible.

Assuming that the handheld device is removed from the tray 14, the separation of the two coils 180, 188 can be detected as a security event. In other words, the inductive coupling detection can replace the secondary safety sensor of the previously known hardware wiring in the prior art.

The wireless configuration just described makes it possible to display a mobile phone or tablet device on a pillar-mounted display rack without external wiring, that is, it eliminates the previous "multi-conductor retractor" and Power and security features provided by the "adapter cable" and/or "secondary" security cable. It is also contemplated that the wireless system just described will completely eliminate the need for mechanical maintenance provided by the retractor that simply passes the tray 14 through a woven steel cable or the like. The real system is roped to a display rack.

Referring to Figures 22A and 23A, the "wireless" embodiment just described provides the same position monitoring and lifting functions as previously described. However, in the wireless embodiment, the separation of the induction coils can be used to detect "lifting" from a defined position on a display shelf.

27-29 are illustrative examples of one of the display countertops 190 that utilizes the prior "wireless" function without the structure of the tray 14 and substrate 16. In this example, the countertop surface 190 can be over the individual tables on which the handheld device 46 is located. The face regions 192, 194, 196, 198 are defined.

Figures 28 and 29 depict one of the regions 192. A transmit coil 194 (Fig. 29) is embedded in the surface of the work surface below the location of the hand held device 46. When the handheld device is not inspected, the previously described receiving coil is disposed above the transmitting coil. For physical preservation, the retailer may still want to have a tether 196 and an anchor 198.

Figures 33 and 34 show an alternate embodiment. Referring first to Figure 33, shown generally at 250 is a cable assembly for electrically coupling the handheld electronic device 46 to one of the mounting members or trays 14. In this embodiment, the cable assembly 250 includes a wafer that is received in the joint 252. The wafer 252 is capable of adjusting the incoming power to the needs of the electronic device. FIG. 33 shows the detachment of the mounting member 14 from the electronic device 46. FIG. 34 shows an alternate embodiment, but wherein the mounting member 14 is mounted to the electronic device 46.

It is recognized that the foregoing description sets forth the best known examples and embodiments. Neither of the previous descriptions is intended to limit the scope of patent protection. Instead, all patent protections will be defined solely by one or more patent claims after this description, which will be interpreted in accordance with the legal requirements of the patent claims and the provisions of the US Patent and Trademark Office and Regulations are made.

10‧‧‧ Pillar/pillar assembly

10B‧‧‧ pillar components

102‧‧‧Control Module

118‧‧‧Power supply

120‧‧‧Logical cable

122‧‧‧Control Module/UIM Module

124‧‧‧ Cable assembly

126‧‧‧ Cable assembly

128‧‧‧Media Player

130‧‧‧Power supply

134‧‧‧ screen

154‧‧‧Light ring

Claims (1)

A cable management device for mounting an electronic device to a display rack, comprising: a tether cable assembly comprising a retractable cable, wherein the retractable cable is a mechanical cable; Provided with a mounting member that receives the electronic device, wherein the mounting member is coupled to the telescoping cable, and the mounting member can be lifted and returned to a rest position when connected to the telescoping cable, Wherein the retractable cable acts to tether the device to the display shelf; a source module for providing at least one power signal at a voltage; and one when the mounting member is in the stationary position a wireless connection between the source module and the mounting member for electrically transferring the at least one power signal from the source module to the mounting member, and wherein the mounting member is lifted from the stationary position The wireless connection between the source module and the mounting member is interrupted; and another cable assembly for electrically coupling the electronic device to the mounting member when the mounting member is lifted and Return to this When the stop position, the assembly line by the other cable to the mounting member carrying the cable assembly further having a line voltage of the power signal for adjusting the level of the wafer becomes the desired electronic device.