WO2016085962A1

WO2016085962A1 - Wearables security device

Info

Publication number: WO2016085962A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/062385
Authority: WO
Inventors: Larry T. Mckinney; Daniel G. DUGAS; David N. Berglund; Jeffrey A. GRANT; Gary A. TAYLOR
Original assignee: Invue Security Products Inc.
Priority date: 2014-11-26
Filing date: 2015-11-24
Publication date: 2016-06-02

Abstract

A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft is provided. In one example, the wearable device includes a body and a band secured thereto. The merchandise security device includes a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band and a cable electrically connected to the first sensor. The security device also includes a second sensor configured to be coupled to the body and to be electrically connected to the first sensor. The security device further includes an alarm module electrically connected to the cable. A sense loop is configured to be defined through the cable and the first and second sensors, and the alarm module is configured to generate a security signal in response to interruption of the sense loop.

Description

WEARABLES SECURITY DEVICE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/084,617, filed November 26, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to merchandise display security devices for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft, such as a wearable device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Retailers routinely display articles of merchandise, such as cellular phones, portable computers (e.g. notebooks, laptops, tablets, etc.), e-readers, media players, and the like for customers to evaluate before making a purchase. These articles of merchandise are continually being made smaller and lighter in weight due to advances in technology and materials. As a result, such merchandise is increasingly vulnerable and susceptible to theft. Accordingly, these articles of merchandise need to be secured by a security device that effectively and cost efficiently protects the merchandise from theft.

[0004] "Smart" devices are beginning to propagate into the traditional watch and wearable computer ("wearables") space. It would be desirable for some retailers to protect such smart watches and wearables from theft, while providing suitable customer interaction with the watch.

[0005] Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved merchandise display security device for protecting wrist watches and wearables from theft. There exists a further need for a merchandise display security device that provides adequate security without hindering a customer's experience in a retail environment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to merchandise display security devices and method for displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft. In one embodiment, the wearable device has a body and a band secured thereto (e.g., a wrist watch), and the security device includes a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band and a cable electrically connected to the first sensor. The security device also includes a second sensor configured to be coupled to the body and to be electrically connected to the first sensor and an alarm module electrically connected to the cable. A sense loop is configured to be defined through the cable and the first and second sensors, and the alarm module is configured to generate a security signal in response to interruption of the sense loop.

[0007] In another embodiment, a method of displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft is provided. The method includes coupling a first sensor to the band and electrically connecting a second sensor to the first sensor. The method further includes coupling the second sensor to the body and arming the security device such that a sense loop is defined through the cable and the first and second sensors.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a merchandise display security device includes a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band and a cable connected to the first sensor. The security device also includes a second sensor configured to be coupled to the body and to be electrically connected to the cable, as well as an alarm module electrically connected to the cable. A sense loop is configured to be defined through at least the cable and the second sensor, and the alarm module is configured to generate a security signal in response to interruption of the sense loop.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a security device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a display stand according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the display stand shown in FIG. 3.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the display stand shown in FIG. 3.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a side view of a sensor and a secondary sensor secured to an article of merchandise according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 7A is a bottom perspective view of a sensor and a secondary sensor secured to an article of merchandise according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7B is a bottom perspective view of a sensor and a secondary sensor secured to an article of merchandise according to another embodiment. [0017] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of a secondary sensor according to another embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of a sensor according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the sensor shown in FIG. 9.

[0020] FIG. 11 is another perspective view of the sensor shown in FIG. 9.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of an alarm module according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0023] Referring now to the accompanying drawing figures wherein like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the various views, one or more embodiments of a merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft are shown. More particularly, the drawing figures show embodiments of a merchandise display security device, indicated generally by reference character 10, for being attached to an article of merchandise, indicated generally by reference character M. In one embodiment, the article of merchandise is a wrist watch or wearable computer having a band and a body (collectively "wearable devices"). The body may include any number of components, such as an internal battery, processor, wireless communication circuitry, etc. The article of merchandise may be a smartwatch in some embodiments. A smartwatch may be like a wrist watch in some respects but include additional functionality, such as similar functionality provided by a computer, mobile phone, or personal digital assistant. In other embodiments, the article of merchandise is any device configured to be secured about a wearer's wrist or otherwise worn by a consumer (e.g., about a consumer's wrist, ankle, neck, etc.). For example, the article of merchandise may be any "wearable" device.

[0024] In one embodiment, the security device 10 includes a sensor 12 coupled to the article of merchandise. In the illustrated embodiment, the security device 10 comprises a sensor body 14 and a cable 16 coupled thereto. The sensor body 14 may be configured to be secured to the article of merchandise for protecting the article from theft or unauthorized removal, as explained in further detail below. The sensor 12 may be adaptable for use with a variety of wearable devices such that the illustrated embodiments are not intended to be limiting.

[0025] Cable 16 may be configured to electrically connect the article of merchandise M to an alarm module 30 and to activate a security signal (e.g., an audible and/or a visible alarm) in the event of a security event, such as if the cable is cut, severed, or removed from the article of merchandise M and/or sensor 12, or should the article of merchandise be removed from the sensor. As such, cable 16 may comprise one or more conductors disposed within a protective outer sheath.

[0026] At least one of the conductors may conduct a security signal between the sensor 12 and the alarm module 30, which is configured to activate an alarm in the event that the electrical signal or sense loop is interrupted indicating a possible theft condition. The alarm module 30 may be configured to be armed or disarmed with a key, such as an electronic key configured to wirelessly transmit a security code. For example, FIGS. 1-3 shows that the alarm module 30 may include a port 35 for communicating with a key. A plug or other connector, for example a USB connector, may be disposed at one end of the cable 16 for electrically connecting the cable to an input port 40 in the display stand 18 or the alarm module 30, which may be in turn connected to an external source of electrical power, for example a conventional 110V AC power outlet. The other end of the cable 16 may be connected to the sensor 12 via hardwiring or a connector for electrically connecting the cable to the sensor and any associated sensor electronics. FIG. 5 shows that the display stand 18 may include an input port 42, for example a USB female input port, for electrically connecting to a cable for supplying power thereto.

[0027] As will be understood and appreciated, cable 16 alternatively may be a mechanical security cable, for example a high strength, cut resistant cable, with or without a security signal conductor in the event that the displayed article of merchandise does not require electrical power or obtains electrical power from another power cable. Likewise, the cable 16 may alternatively be a power cable that provides electrical power to the electronic article of merchandise without a security signal conductor in the event that the mechanical security provided by the electro-mechanical power cable is sufficient for protecting the article of merchandise from theft.

[0028] In the embodiment of the security device 10 illustrated in FIG. 12, the alarm module 30 is shown positioned in a secure location, for example underneath a display counter or within a locked cabinet, so that the alarm module is not readily accessible to unauthorized persons. The alarm module 30 may contain alarm electronics for monitoring the state of the security signal conducted by the cable 16 and for activating an internal or remote audible and/or visible alarm in the event of a possible theft condition. The alarm module 30 may optionally contain voltage regulating and/or power management electronics for modulating the voltage (e.g. 18V) of the external source of electrical power to provide an appropriate operating voltage (e.g. 5V) to the article of merchandise.

[0029] As shown FIGS. 1-5, the security device may include a display stand 18 for supporting the article of merchandise, although such a display stand is not required in some embodiments. The display stand 18 may be in the form of a pedestal for supporting the article of merchandise in a displayed position. The display stand 18 may be configured to be secured to a display surface, such as a counter, fixture, table, shelf, or the like, such as with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The display stand 18 may include a support member 20 configured to support the article of merchandise thereon. The article of merchandise and sensor 12 may be readily removed from the display stand 18 for inspection. The cable 16 may extend between and be connected to both the sensor 12 and the display stand 18. The cable 16 could be releasably connected to the display stand 18 with a connector or could be hardwired thereto. A portion of the cable 16 may be elastically extendable and retractable such that the article of merchandise attached thereto may be extended away from the display stand 18 for inspection. As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the cable 16 may be a coiled cord that is elastic and extendable relative to a display stand. Alternatively, the cable 16 may be coupled to a recoiler that is configured to retractably store the cable therein. The recoiler could be housed within the display stand 18 in some embodiments, such as a base of the display stand, or could be positioned below a display surface or counter. In addition, the display stand 18 could include an alignment mechanism for cooperating with the sensor 12 coupled to the article of merchandise for securing the article in a desired position. For example, the display stand 18 could include one or more magnets or magnetically attractable material configured to cooperate with corresponding magnets or magnetically attractable material on the sensor 12 and/or the article of merchandise.

[0030] The display stand 18 may also include electronics (e.g., circuitry or a printed circuit board) for electrically connecting the alarm module 30 and the sensor 12. The electronics in the display stand 18 could also be employed to pass power to the article of merchandise when supported thereon. The alarm module 30 may be configured to generate a security signal should the cable 16 be removed from the display stand 18. It is understood that the display stand 18 may be electrically connected to a remote alarm module 30, or the alarm module may be integrated with the display stand 18. Thus, the alarming electronics may be integrated within the display stand 18 if desired for providing a standalone security solution (see, e.g., FIGS. 3-5). FIG. 4 shows that the display stand may include an alarm 44 (e.g., a piezo) for generating an audible alarm. It is further understood that the size and configuration of the display stand 18 may be modified to accommodate any desired wearable device, as well as sensors 12 having different sizes and configurations. In some embodiments, the alarm module 30 and the cable 16 connector may be similar to that disclosed in U.S. Application No. 14/278,563, entitled Alarming Cables, Assemblies, and Systems, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In the instance where power is desired to be provided to the wearable device, the display stand 18 may be electrically connected to a power source 31 via a power cable. Thus, the security device may permit a potential purchaser to examine and operate the wearable device in a powered state while secured.

[0031] In one embodiment, the cable 16 terminates with a sensor 12 that is configured to attach to the article of merchandise M, such as a wrist watch or other wearable device. In the illustrated embodiments, the wearable device may include a body 24 configured to be secured to a band 26, wherein the band is configured to be secured to a wearer's wrist. The sensor 12 may be configured to clamp to the band in some embodiments. The sensor 12 may also be secured to the band using other additional or alternative techniques, such as with an adhesive 25 and/or one or more fasteners 27. In this regard, the sensor may include a first member 28 and a second member 34 that are configured to engage with one another and about the band (see, e.g., FIG. 9 where a portion of the first member has been omitted for purposes of illustration). The first 28 and second 34 members may be secured together with one or more fasteners 27. The first and second members cooperate with one another to define an opening 29 for receiving a portion of the band therethrough. It is understood that the sensor 12 may be configured to various sizes and configurations for accommodating different bands. For example, the sensor 12 may be a clamp that is configured to extend at least partially around the band and may include one or more components that are configured to attach to the band and/or one another. In one instance, the sensor 12 is a clamp that is bendable and configured to be bent around the band. In other cases, the band may include components that couple to one another (e.g., snap or friction fit) and the band. The sensor 12 may be secured using various means such as fasteners and/or adhesive.

[0032] Moreover, the sensor 12 may include a sensing device 36 configured to detect removal of the band in an unauthorized manner (see, e.g., FIG. 10). For example, the sensing device 36 may be a pressure or plunger switch that is configured to engage the band when the sensor is secured thereto. The sensing device 36 may be in communication with sensor electronics 38 in the sensor 12 that is configured to detect actuation of the sensing device to thereby provide a signal to the alarm module 30 via the cable 16 for generating an alarm. Thus, the sensor electronics may be in electrical communication with the alarm module 30 and associated alarm electronics via the cable 16. In some embodiments, the sensor electronics includes circuitry, a printed circuit board, or the like that is electrically connected to the sensing device and the cable. Engagement of the sensing device 36 with the band may cause the sense loop to be completed and the alarm module 30 to be armed. Alternatively, a key may be used to arm the sensing device. [0033] In one embodiment, the security device 10 also includes a secondary sensor 32 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 2). The secondary sensor 32 may be configured to electrically connect to the first sensor 12 and to be coupled to the body. For example, the secondary sensor 32 may be a cable that is electrically connected to both the first sensor 12 and the body (see, e.g., FIG. 1). In this case, the secondary sensor 32 may facilitate power transfer to the wearable device and in some embodiments, the secondary sensor completes a sense loop such that removal of the secondary sensor results in interruption of the sense loop. The secondary sensor 32 may include a connector at its free end that is configured to releasably engage an input port on the body (e.g., a micro-USB connector). The other end of the secondary sensor 32 may be hardwired to the sensor 12 or could be releasably engaged in alternative embodiments.

[0034] In other embodiments, the secondary sensor 32 comprises a flexible circuit (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 6, and 7). The flexible circuit is configured to be electrically connected to the sensor 12 and in some cases, may be releasably engaged therewith. All or a portion of the flexible circuit may be flexible. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit is ribbon like and bendable so as to be conformable to various surface contours. The flexible circuit may include one or more conductors extending along its length for completing a sense loop with the first sensor (see, e.g., FIG. 7A). Thus, should the secondary sensor 32 be cut, torn, disconnected, or removed, the alarm module 30 may be configured to detect an interruption in the sense loop and to generate a security signal. In one embodiment, the flexible circuit may include a flexible component 50 that is configured to flex and electrically connect to electrical contacts (see, e.g., FIG. 7B). In this instance, removal of the flexible circuit may result in disengagement of the flexible component and associated electrical contacts which thereby interrupts the sense loop. The flexible circuit may include an adhesive or other attachment means for being secured to the body, such as a releasable pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some cases, the flexible circuit may be configured to tear when the flexible circuit is removed from the body. For instance, the flexible circuit may include one or more tear locations that are configured to tear and thereby interrupt the sense loop when removed. Thus, the flexible circuit may be disposable in some embodiments. The flexible circuit may be attached to any desired location on the body, such as the rear surface of the body. When attached to the body, the flexible circuit has a low profile that does not interfere with a customer's ability to try on the wearable device, and may also be positioned so as to no interfere with any electrical contacts 46 or sensors 48 on the body. According to some embodiments, the flexible circuit may be similar to that disclosed in International Application No. PCT/US2014/62769, entitled Flexible Sensor for a Portable Electronic Device, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0035] The secondary sensor 32 may be configured to be utilized various sensing techniques in addition or as an alternative to that described above. For example, secondary sensor 32 may be a flexible circuit configured to generate variable resistance in response to bending. In this embodiment, the resistance may vary based on the bend radius of the flexible circuit. Detection of a change in the bend radius (e.g., due to removal of the flexible circuit from the body) may be indicative of a security event that is detectable by the sensor 12 and/or the alarm module 30. In another embodiment, the secondary sensor 32 may be configured to generate variable voltage that is proportional to the bend rate of the flexible circuit. If the flexible circuit is removed from the body, the flexible circuit is configured to generate voltage that is detectable by the sensor 12 and/or the alarm module 30. In either case, a predetermined change or exceeding a predetermined value in resistance or voltage may be indicative of a security event.

[0036] Moreover, the secondary sensor 32 may be configured reduce stress on the secondary sensor as the band is pivoted relative to the body. For instance, the secondary sensor 32 may be a flexible circuit that is configured to adjust in length, such as by using a particular shaped flexible circuit. In one example, the flexible circuit may have a series of bends and/or cutouts that allow the flexible circuit to extend when the band is pivoted in one direction and to at least partially collapse on itself as the band is pivoted in an opposite direction.

[0037] FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of a secondary sensor 32'. This embodiment shows that the secondary sensor 32' may be form fitted to a variety of bodies and components thereof. In this case, the secondary sensor 32' is configured to conform to and cover any features on the rear of the body, such as any quick-release features, as well as allow for access to any charging device 52. For example, the charging device 52 could be mounted to the support member 20 on the display stand 18. In some embodiments, the secondary sensor 32' may include a vacuum-molded member that is formed to a particular shape that is configured to conform to specific bodies and/or bands. The secondary sensor 32' could be vacuum molded so as to extend from the sensor 12 and cover at least apportion of a flexible circuit. The vacuum-molded member may thereby secure the flexible circuit to the body and/or band.

[0038] In some cases, the charging device 52 is an original equipment manufacturing device that is configured to be attached to the secondary sensor 32' or the display stand 18. In the case where the body has one or more electrical contacts for charging, the secondary sensor 32' may further include a printed circuit board (PCB) having one or more electrical contacts that are configured to be attached to the body and align with the contacts on the body. In this way, the display stand 18 may include one or more electrical contacts that are configured to align with and electrically connect to the contacts on the PCB to facilitate power transfer while the body is supported on the display stand. Different PCBs may be used for different types of bodies that have different electrical contact locations and configurations. As such, a more "universal" display stand 18 may be employed for a variety of different body types.

[0039] FIGS. 9-11 show an embodiment of a self-shunting mechanism 54. The self-shunting mechanism may be disposed within the sensor 12. The sensor 12 may include an opening 60 for receiving the secondary sensor 32 therein, for example, an opening defined through the first member 28. The end of the secondary sensor 32 may be configured to releasably engage a connector 55 disposed within the sensor 12. The secondary sensor 32 may be frictionally engaged within the opening. In some cases, the opening and end of the secondary sensor 32 are inaccessible when the first and second members are secured to one another. When inserted within the opening, the end of the secondary sensor 32 is configured to engage a first switch 56. The first switch 56 may be biased towards a closed position with a spring 64 or similar biasing element such that positioning the end of the secondary sensor 32 within the opening compresses the spring and engages the first switch. Upon removal of the end of the secondary sensor 32 from the opening, the spring biases to its relaxed position and displaces the first switch 56 back to a closed position. Engagement of the first switch 56 may open the switch and allow a sense loop to be defined through the secondary sensor 32 and the sensor 12. When the secondary sensor 32 is removed from the sensor 12 or otherwise not present, the first switch 56 may close and allow the sense loop to be completed within the sensor 12. FIG. 11 also shows a second switch 58, which may cooperate with the sensing device 36 for engaging the band and for detecting activation of the sensing device.

[0040] In other embodiments, the secondary sensor 32 may be fixed to the sensor 12 such as via soldering such that the self-shunting mechanism 54 is optional in some cases. Moreover, the secondary sensor 32 may be coupled to the band and body using different techniques. For instance, FIGS. 6-8 show that the secondary sensor 32 is secured to a rear surface of the band and body. However, it is understood that the secondary sensor 32 may be secured to the sensor 12 on a front surface of the band and a rear surface of the body. In this way, the secondary sensor 32 transitions from the front of the band to the rear of the body which is believed to alleviate stress on the secondary sensor as the band is pivoted relative to the body.

[0041] It is understood that the sensor 12 may not include any sensing electronics in some embodiments and may function as a clamp for securing the cable 16 to the band, i.e., the clamp mechanically secures the cable to the band. In some cases, the cable 16 may not terminate in the sensor 12 but may pass through the sensor acting as a clamp and be electrically coupled to the secondary sensor 32. Clamping the cable 16 results in removing stress applied to the secondary sensor 32 as the cable is extended. In one embodiment, the cable 16 may be a round cable, and the round cable may transition to the secondary sensor 32, which may be a flexible circuit as described above. The round cable and flexible circuit could be fixed together such as via joining one or more conductors. The connection between the round cable and the flexible circuit may allow for greater flexibility as the band is pivoted relative to the body since the round cable allows for bending in multiple directions rather than only one direction.

[0042] Notably, the sensor 12 is located on the band of the wearable device, while the secondary sensor 32 is of a low profile. As a result, the customer is able to model the wearable device on his or her wrist without interference of the sensor 12. For example, the sensor 12 and secondary sensor 32 may be sized and configured so as not hinder a customer's ability to wear the watch. The security device also does not require clamps or other features that surround the body of the wearable device and take away from the display of the wearable device. Furthermore, the secondary sensor 32 may be of a low profile to allow for various types of power charging, including inductive charging.

[0043] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of a merchandise display for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise such as a wrist watch or wearable. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft, the wearable device comprising a body and a band secured thereto, the security device comprising:

a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band;

a cable electrically connected to the first sensor;

a second sensor configured to be coupled to the body and to be electrically connected to the first sensor; and

an alarm module electrically connected to the cable,

wherein a sense loop is configured to be defined through the cable and the first and second sensors, and

wherein the alarm module is configured to generate a security signal in response to interruption of the sense loop.

2. The security device of Claim 1, wherein the first sensor comprises a clamp configured to engage the band.

3. The security device of Claim 2, wherein an opening is defined in the first sensor and is configured to receive a portion of the band.

4. The security device of Claim 1, wherein the first sensor comprises a sensing device configured to engage the band when secured thereto.

5. The security device of Claim 1, further comprising a display stand for removably supporting the wearable device thereon.

6. The security device of Claim 5, wherein the alarm module is integrated with the display stand.

7. The security device of Claim 5, wherein the display stand comprises a support member for receiving and supporting the first sensor thereon.

8. The security device of Claim 1, wherein the second sensor is a flexible circuit.

9. The security device of Claim 8, wherein the flexible circuit is configured to releasably engage the first sensor.

10. The security device of Claim 9, wherein the first sensor comprises a self-shunting mechanism for completing the sense loop when the flexible circuit is releasably engaged with the first sensor.

11. The security device of Claim 1, wherein the second sensor comprises a connector configured to engage an input port on the body.

12. The security device of Claim 11, wherein the alarm module is configured to generate a security signal in response to removal of the connector from the input port.

13. A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft, the security device comprising:

a wearable device comprising a body and a band secured thereto; and

a security device comprising:

a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band;

a cable electrically connected to the first sensor;

an alarm module electrically connected to the cable,

14. The security device of Claim 12, wherein the wearable device comprises a wrist watch.

15. A method of displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft, the wearable device comprising a body and a band secured thereto, the method comprising:

coupling a first sensor to the band;

electrically connecting a second sensor to the first sensor;

coupling the second sensor to the body; and

arming the security device such that a sense loop is defined through the cable and the first and second sensors.

16. A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting a wearable device from theft, the wearable device comprising a body and a band secured thereto, the security device comprising:

a first sensor configured to be coupled to the band;

a cable connected to the first sensor;

a second sensor configured to be coupled to the body and to be electrically connected to the cable; and

an alarm module electrically connected to the cable,

wherein a sense loop is configured to be defined through at least the cable and the second sensor, and