WO2016034868A1

WO2016034868A1 - Tablet display device security system

Info

Publication number: WO2016034868A1
Application number: PCT/GB2015/052518
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Ashley BALLHATCHET; Andrew Neil FURNER
Original assignee: Spotspot Limited
Priority date: 2014-09-02
Filing date: 2015-09-01
Publication date: 2016-03-10

Abstract

A tablet display device security system (1) is provided for receiving and securing a tablet display device (23). The system comprises a dock (3) securable to a surface (10). The dock comprises a housing (31) and a saddle (32) pivotably mounted within the housing (31). The saddle (32) has a cavity (30). The system 1 further comprises a foot (4) securable to or forming part of the tablet display device (23). The foot (4) is shaped to be received within the cavity (30). A first locking arrangement is provided for releasably connecting the foot (4) and dock (3).

Description

Tablet Display Device Security System

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a tablet display 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. In 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 least delay the thief long enough to then be detained.

Examples of known tablet device display assemblies that include physical security measures include US 2013/0342087 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 their 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 security system 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 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.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided 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 first cavity; and 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; wherein the portion to be received within the first cavity is configured to be inserted into the first cavity along a direction of insertion; and wherein one or both of the first cavity and the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity include one or more surface which is inclined to the direction of insertion to assist with guiding the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity into the first cavity.

Portions of one or both opposed ends of the first cavity may be flared to form the one or more inclined surface. One or both lower outer ends of the portion shaped to be received into the first cavity may be chamfered to form the one or more inclined surface. One or both lower outer ends of the portion shaped to be received into the first cavity may include recesses to form the one or more inclined surface. One or both of the opposed ends of the first cavity may include shoulders protruding into the cavity, the shoulders having inclined surfaces to form the inclined surfaces.

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.

In 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 are sprung loaded.

According to another embodiment, the tablet display device enclosure further comprises 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.

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 locking 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.

In 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 be 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 Bluetooth (RTM) chip module, 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.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a security system for securing an object, the security system comprising first and second attachment means, the first attachment means being securable to a surface and the second attachment means being securable to the object, one of the first and second attachment means comprising a housing having a first cavity and the other of the first and second attachment means having a portion shaped to be received within the first cavity, and a first locking arrangement for releasably locking the first and second attachment means.

The first locking arrangement may be arranged to secure the portion shaped to be received within the cavity to the cavity by pushing that portion into the cavity. In particular, the first locking arrangement may comprise 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.

The first and second locking parts may comprise pairs of retaining pins and corresponding indents. One or both of the retaining pins may be sprung loaded and/or one or both of the indents may be sprung loaded. The locking arrangement may include means for immobilising the locking pins

Other features of this aspect of the invention are as described above in relation to the previous aspects of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be described 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 embodiment 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 orientation; Figure 10 is a front view of an example tablet device case to be 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 rear view of a tablet display device of a tablet display device security system according to a fifth embodiment;

Figure 16 is a perspective rear view of the tablet display device according to the fifth embodiment;

Figure 17 is a perspective rear view of the system of Figure 15;

Figure 18 is a perspective view showing an example of a tablet device security system;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of a dock of a tablet device security system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20 shows an example of peripherals that may be used in conjunction with the fifth embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 21A-D are views of a foot of the tablet device case showing structural details which assist with insertion of the foot into a cavity of the dock; and

Figures 22A-D are views of the dock showing corresponding structural details. Detailed Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 illustrates a tablet display device security system 1 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 releasably attached to the case 21, defining a cavity therebetween 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 case 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 be secured to a surface, for example, a table, shop counter, wall, or any flat 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 be 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-b 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 31b and which extends from a dock mounting plate 31c. The second tablet device cable 35 is coupled to a first printed circuit board (PCB) 36a mounted in the dock base 3 lb, 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 the 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-b. A through hole 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 cable connectors 34a are 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 be utilised to provide power to the tablet display device 23 and/or a data connection from 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 tablet 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 41a-b, which are located at opposed ends of the elongate foot 4 and comprise indents, to retain the foot 4 within 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 automatically 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 41b engaging with the part 33b 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 comprises a first and second swing arms 39a- b, which are housed within a dock frame 3 Id and concealed by a dock cover 31a. The first and second swing arms 39a-b 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-b. When the foot 4 is initially inserted into the dock 3, the foot pushes the sprung loaded retaining pins 33a-b 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-b 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 behind 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 be removed from the dock 3 by pulling the foot 4 out of the saddle cavity 30, thereby pushing the sprung loaded retaining pins 33 a- b apart against the biasing force of the locking pin springs 33a-b. In 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-b is used to lock the tablet 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 (RFID) antenna (not shown) and an RFID fob 37 is associated with the RFID antenna, the RFID fob being kept in the possession of a particular person, for example, a member of staff. The RFID key fob 37 is held within 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 the saddle 32. 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.

In 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-b engage with a corresponding part 41a-b of the second locking parts 41a-b to retain the foot 4 within the cavity 30 of the dock 3, as described in the above embodiment. In a second configuration, the key is inserted into the lock 33a' associated with locking part 33 a, 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 are withdrawn from the corresponding part 41a-b of the second locking parts 41a-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 pivotable 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 the housing 31 to 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 be 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.

As stated above, the tablet display device enclosure 2 comprises a case 21 and a faceplate 22. The foot 4 may further comprise a second locking arrangement 45, as illustrated in Figure 3. This second locking arrangement 45 allows the faceplate 22 to be secured to and released from the case 21, so as to secure the tablet display device 23 inside the tablet device enclosure 2. 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, replaced or cleaned. The key and associated lock may be of the lever lock type, the pin-tumbler type, the tubular barrel key type or any other type of key and lock arrangement. Alternatively, the key and associated lock may be in the form of an Allen (RTM), Torx (RTM) or other geometric key and lock arrangement.

In addition to the second locking arrangement 45 including a key receiving means for receiving the key, the second locking arrangement 45 includes means for releasing the faceplate 22 from the case 21. In one embodiment the second locking arrangement 45 further comprises one or more cable (not shown) running from a bobbin attached to the lock to a corresponding number of spring loaded latches (not shown) at the interface of the case 21 and the faceplate 22. When the lock of the second locking arrangement 45 is rotated the cable or cables is/are wound around the bobbin to withdraw the latches against the force of the springs to allow removal of the faceplate 22, to provide access to the tablet device.

As can be seen from Figures 1 and 3, a position of the access point of the second locking arrangement 45 is provided on the foot 4 such that when the foot 4 is inserted into the saddle 32 the saddle 32 at least partially covers the access point. In this manner when the tablet device enclosure 2 is locked into the dock 3 the access point is inaccessible such that the enclosure 2 cannot be unlocked.

Alternatively, the second locking arrangement 45 may comprise a button release mechanism which may be pressed to open the tablet device casing 21.

The faceplate 22 of the enclosure 2 is shown by way of example in Figure 10. 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 accommodate the development of tablet design.

In a third embodiment, 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 be preferable where it is desirable that the whole tablet display device 23 can be 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 11. 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.

In a fourth embodiment, illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, the foot 4 as described above forms part of a rear panel 25 of a body 26 of a tablet display device 23a. Since the foot 4 forms part of the rear panel of the tablet display device 23 a it can be mated to a dock 3 in the same manner as described above. Consequently at least part of the portion of the foot 4 which is shaped to be received within the first cavity 30 of the saddle 32 is integrally formed with the body 26 of the tablet display device 23a. Such an arrangement requires either specific manufacture of tablet display devices with a rear panel 25 having this shape or alternatively a standard tablet display device can be dismantled and the rear panel 25 replaced with a panel incorporating an integral foot. As with the third embodiment, such an arrangement may be preferable where it is desirable that the whole tablet display device 23 can be seen, for example, in a retail store selling tablet display devices.

Figure 17 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 15 and 16, 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. Alternatively, the reinforced tablet device cable 6 may be 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 be 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 18 provides an example of a security system 7 according to embodiments of the present invention. The security system 7 may include a first tablet 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 mounting 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 be connected to any external power sources, other computer hardware or an Internet 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 box 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 of 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 15 and 17, in which the tablet display device security assembly 5 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 19, the dock 3 may 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 20, these peripherals may include printers 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 Hub 9 may be 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.

Features of the ends of the foot 4 and the cavity 30 of the saddle 32 which provide easy insertion and removal of the foot 4 into and out of the cavity 30 are shown in greater detail in Figures 21 A-D and 22A-D. Figure 21A is an end view of the foot 4 of the tablet device enclosure 2 showing structural details which assist with insertion of the foot 4 into the cavity 30. Figures 2 IB and 21C are respectively perspective and side views of the tablet device enclosure showing the same detail. Figure 2 ID is a bottom view of the tablet device enclosure 2. As stated above, a rounded indent or retaining recess 41b, constituting a second locking part, is formed in one end of the foot 4 and a similar indent 41a is formed in the opposed end of the foot 4. Two further recesses 47a,b are formed in each end of the foot 4 on opposed sides of the indents 41a,b. When viewed in the direction shown in Figure 21 A, these recesses 47a,b have the general shape of an obtuse triangle whose longest side coincides with the lateral edges of the foot 4. Of the other two sides of the 'triangle', the lower side 48a as viewed in Figure 19A is vertical so that the two sides 48a of the two recesses 47a,b are substantially parallel. These sides 48a of the recesses 47a,b act as case holding surfaces when the tablet device enclosure 2 is inserted into the dock 3. An end wall 48b of the recesses 47a,b as viewed in Figure 21 A acts as a lateral holding surface when the tablet device enclosure 2 is inserted into the dock 3. The formation of these two recesses 47a,b in each lateral end of the foot 4 results in a generally Y-shaped protrusion at the ends of the foot 4.

As can be seen in Figure 21C, the bottom outer corners of the foot 4 are chamfered to provide two case lead-in chamfers.

Figure 22A is a first perspective view of the dock 3 showing structural details which assist with receiving the foot 4 into the cavity 30. Figure 22B is a second perspective view of the dock 3 from above. Figure 20C is a side view from above of the dock 3. Figure 22D is a section view in the direction D-D of Figure 22A.

As can be seen from Figures 22A-D, each end of the cavity 30 includes a sprung loaded retaining pin 33a,b, which together function as a first pair of locking parts (as described above), and the ends of the cavity are shaped to readily receive the foot 4 of the enclosure 2.

With reference to Figure 22C, lateral end surfaces 50 of the cavity 30 are flared to provide docking guide surfaces. Below the docking guide surfaces 50, each end portion of the cavity 30 includes a generally Y-shaped cavity portion to correspond to the generally Y-shaped protrusion formed at the ends of the foot 4. As can be seen in Figure 22D, the general Y-shape is formed by two shoulders 51 which extend into the cavity 30. Inner edges 52a of the two shoulders 51 are parallel and form a pair of opposed dock holding surfaces which cooperate with the case holding surfaces 48a of the foot 4 of the case 2. The inner opposed surfaces of the shoulders 51 flare outwards above the dock holding surfaces 52a, producing the upper portion of the Y-shaped cavity/cut-out.

As will be apparent from Figures 21 A-D and 22A-D, to insert the tablet device case 2 into the dock, the foot 4 is positioned above the cavity 30 of the saddle 32. As the foot 4 is pushed into the cavity 32 in the direction of insertion, the flared docking guide surfaces 50 of the cavity 30 and the chamfered case lead-in chamfers 49 help guide the foot 4 laterally into the cavity 30. As the foot 4 is pushed further into the cavity 30 a case holding surface 48a at each lateral end of the foot 4 will slide along a dock holding surface 52a in the cavity 30. As the foot 4 is pushed further into the cavity the retaining pins 33a,b will ride over the ends of the foot 4 until they rest in the recesses 41a,b in the ends of the foot 4. Once the retaining pins 33a,b are lodged in the recesses 41a,b, each of the dock holding surfaces 52a will abut its corresponding case holding surface 48a.

In addition to the engagement of parts of the foot 4 and cavity 30 as described above, the first 34a and second 34b tablet device connectors which protrude into the cavity of the saddle 32 do so from a raised portion 53. Corresponding to these raised portions 53, recesses 54 are formed in the foot 4 around the first 40a and second 40b tablet device cable connectors, as shown in Figures 21C and 2 ID. These corresponding raised portions 53 and recesses 54 assist with the engagement of the connectors 34a,b, 40a,b and the foot 4 with the saddle 32.

It will be apparent from the above description of the structural features of the ends of the foot 4 and the cavity 30 that when the enclosure 2 is docked in the dock 3, the enclosure 2 is held rigidly in the dock 3 as a result of a number of design features. Firstly, relative movement of the foot 4 and the saddle 32 in the direction of insertion is prevented due to the engagement of the first pair of locking parts 33 a, 33b (the sprung loaded retaining pins) with the second pair of locking parts 41a,b (the indents in the ends of the foot 4). Secondly, relative lateral movement of the foot 4 and the saddle 32 is prevented by abutment of the case holding surfaces 48a (the vertical sides) of the recesses 47a,b with the inner facing surfaces of the shoulders 51 of the cavity 30. Thirdly, when the enclosure 2 is rotated relative to the dock 3, there is no rotational slack between the saddle 32 and the foot 4, so the saddle 32 rotates together with the foot 4, due to abutment of the dock holding surfaces 48a (vertical sides) of the recesses 47a,b with the dock holding surfaces 52a (inner parallel edges) of the shoulders 51. In summary, there features (along with other features described above, such as engagement of the raised portions 53 with the recesses 54) impede relative movement of the foot 4 and saddle 32 in the lateral, rotational and separational directions.

A further feature that may be incorporated into the invention described herein, is the use of a low energy Bluetooth (RTM) chip. In this respect, a Bluetooth chip module (not shown) with a unique identification number may be 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 enclosure 21 can be 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 - 18 may be rotated by 90°.

The embodiments described above relate to a security system for a tablet display device. It will be readily appreciated that the case can be adapted to enclose devices other than tablet display devices, such as mobile phones, other display (non-touch) screens, music players and any other type of consumer product. For example, a security system as described above may be used to secure a television or speakers to a wall, thereby allowing the television or speakers to be unlocked from the first attachment means and stowed securely when not required. It will be apparent that when the device to be secured is an electrical item power and other electrical connections can be supplied to the item by means of the electrical connectors described above.

Furthermore the technique of using first and second attachment means as described herein and as defined in the claims can be applied to methods of securing many objects. For example, the security system described herein can be used for securing items of value such as works of art, such as paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures to a display service. For example, by at least partially housing the work of art in an enclosure or by attaching a foot as described above to the work of art, the work of art may be readily secured to and released from a first attachment means which itself is secured to a surface. Alternatively the cavity to receive the foot may be formed in the attachments means which is attached to the object which is to be secured, and the foot may be attached to surface, such as a wall.

Claims

1. 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 pivotably mounted within the housing, the saddle having a first cavity; a second attachment means securable to or forming part of 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. 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 first cavity; and

a second attachment means securable to or forming part of the tablet display device, the second attachment means having a portion shaped to be received within the first cavity; wherein the portion to be received within the first cavity is configured to be inserted into the first cavity along a direction of insertion; and

wherein one or both of the first cavity and the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity include one or more surface which is inclined to the direction of insertion to assist with guiding the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity into the first cavity.

3. A system according to claim 2, wherein portions of one or both opposed ends of the first cavity are flared to form the one or more inclined surface.

4. A system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein one or both lower outer ends of the portion shaped to be received into the first cavity are chamfered to form the one or more inclined surface.

5. A system according to claim 2, 3 or 4, wherein one or both lower outer ends of the portion shaped to be received into the first cavity include recesses to form the one or more inclined surface.

6. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein one or both of the opposed ends of the first cavity include shoulders protruding into the cavity, the shoulders having inclined surfaces to form the inclined surfaces.

7. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, further comprising a first locking arrangement for releasably connecting the first and second attachment means.

8. A system according to claim 1 or 7, 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 locking parts are cooperative with each other.

9. A system according to claim 8, wherein the first cavity is elongate and the first locking parts are located at opposed ends of the first cavity.

10. A system according to claims 8 or 9, wherein the second attachment means is elongate and the second locking parts are located at opposed ends of the second attachment means.

11. A system according to any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first locking parts comprise a pair of retaining pins and the second locking parts comprise a corresponding pair of indents.

12. A system according to claim 11, wherein one or both of the retaining pins are sprung loaded.

13. A system according to claim 12, 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.

14. A system according to any of claims 8 to 13, wherein the first and second locking parts are locked by insertion when the first attachment means and the second attachment means are connected.

15. A system according to any of claims 8 to 14, wherein the second attachment means is released from the first attachment means by insertion of a key associated with the first locking arrangement.

16. A system according to any of claims 8 to 14, 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 in communication with the RFID antenna.

17. 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 the tablet display device.

18. 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 cable connector.

19. A system according to claim 18, 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.

20. A system according to claims 18 or 19, 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.

21. A system according to any preceding claims, wherein the second attachment means is connectable to the first attachment means in at least two orientations.

22. A system according to any preceding claims when the second attachment means is securable to the tablet display device 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.

23. A system according to claim 22, wherein the second attachment means comprises a second locking arrangement arranged to secure the tablet display device within the case.

24. A system according to claim 23, wherein the second locking arrangement is accessible when the case is released from the first attachment means and which is inaccessible when the case is connected to the first attachment means.

25. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 21 when the second attachment means forms part of the tablet display device, wherein at least part of the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity is integrally formed with a body of the tablet display device.

26. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first attachment means is connected via at least one cable to a power source.

27. A system according to claim 26, 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.

28. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first attachment means further comprises a Bluetooth chip module.

29. A system according to claim 28, 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.

30. A system according to any preceding claim, further comprising means for impeding relative lateral, rotational and separational movement between the first cavity and the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity when the portion shaped to be received within the first cavity is disposed in the first cavity.

31. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 1 to 9.

32. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

33. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 13 and 14.

34. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 15 to 17.

35. A tablet display device security system as hereinbefore described with reference to Figures 21 A-D and 22A-D.