CN107864679B - System and method for commercializing electronic displays - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems and methods for merchandising displays associated with continuous displays formed from electronic displays embedded along product shelves and packaging stored on product shelves. Electronic tagging devices can detect the presence of customers and send triggers to their product shelves for packaging. Electronic tag devices can also send triggers to surrounding electronic tag devices. The streaming video can then be distributed between the electronic label device and the display on the package. Each of the monitors can output a different portion of the streaming video at the same time.

Description

System and method for commercializing electronic displays

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to US Application No. 14/713,809, filed May 15, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 14/591,421, filed January 7, 2015, US Application No. 14 /591,421 claims priority from US Application No. 62/078,809, filed November 12, 2014. This application relates to US Application No. 14/308,989 filed on June 19, 2014, US Application No. 14/308,989 is a divisional application of US Application No. 13/194,649 filed on July 29, 2011, and US Application No. .13/194,649 claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 61/371,417, filed August 6, 2010 and is a continuation of US Application No. 12/876,919, filed September 7, 2010, US Application No. 12/876,919 is a continuation-in-part of US Patent Application No. 10/772,010 (now US Patent No. 7,792,711), filed February 3, 2004. This application is also related to US Application No. 13/836,680, filed March 15, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 13/194,649, filed July 29, 2011, US Application No. 13/194,649 is a continuation of US Application No. 12/876,919, filed September 7, 2010, which is a continuation of US Application No. 10/772,010, filed February 3, 2004 (now US Patent No. 7,792,711) part of the continuation application. US Application No. 13/836,680 also claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 61/371,417, filed August 6, 2010, and is a continuation-in-part of US Application No. 13/785,082, filed March 5, 2013 Application. The contents of each of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

technical field

The present disclosure relates to a store intelligence system that can be configured to, for example, provide one or more of: interactive electronic price displays, provide marketing messaging, and provide continuous delivery across electronic price displays, packaging, and/or products show.

Background technique

The main cost of operating a retail store is related to inventory management, which includes the tracking and storage of inventory. A large portion of this cost is related to product inventory management in the store's sales area. A considerable part of the cost of inventory management is the periodic counting of products on store shelves. This count is necessary to determine the quantity of product on the shelf and to help ensure that the shelf is fully stocked.

Historically, inventory counts on store shelves were done by hand and the results were recorded on paper. More recently, however, inventory has been manually counted using a small handheld computer that can be configured to transmit the entered data to a central computer that compiles the data, and can be programmed to make decisions about purchases Decisions on products used to restock shelves. These latest advances help reduce the cost of inventory management; however, counting inventory still requires a lot of manual labor. It can be beneficial to reduce the amount of manual labor required for inventory counting.

Another significant cost associated with inventory management is product theft. Certain items are relatively small but of high value to potential thieves who may either resell the items or use them for other illegal purposes, as in the case of certain pharmaceutical products. Losses resulting from such theft have a negative impact on the profitability of a retail store.

Theft can be the result of customer and employee behavior and is difficult to eliminate. Attempts to deter and prevent theft have proven to be only partially effective. For example, in-store cameras often do not observe theft clearly enough to catch or prosecute the burglar. Additionally, in-store security is rarely in the correct location to actually observe a burglar in action. As a result, theft remains a significant problem and cost in inventory management. Therefore, assistance in monitoring theft can be beneficial.

Currently, retail stores can track the amount of product sold based on multiple items scanned at the checkout counter. While this capability has proven useful, the use of such a system creates certain inherent disadvantages. An inherent disadvantage is that the scanner only counts the number of products that were legally purchased. Therefore, if a product is removed from the shelf without being purchased, the store cannot determine the fact that the product has been misplaced or stolen without visual inspection or inspection. It would be useful to compare changes in product levels on shelves with the volume of product sold.

The second inherent disadvantage involves store-operated product promotions. A typical promotion will place the product at the end of the aisle or some type of promotional location that increases customer awareness of the product. Often, products are also placed on shelves in their traditional locations, allowing customers familiar with the store's product layout to find products without undue searching. As a result, a customer may obtain a product being promoted in multiple places, and it may be difficult to determine the effectiveness of a particular promotional display, ie, the effect of a promotional discount offered on a product versus a normal purchase of the product. Therefore, it may be beneficial to more accurately determine the effectiveness of in-store promotions.

Another major cost of inventory management is associated with having to maintain more inventory in the store than is actually needed to meet customer demand. Since current inventory systems do not automatically indicate that a shelf is empty, retail stores tend to rely on output measured by checkout, or alternatively by visual inspection, to determine whether additional products need to be placed on the shelf. To ensure that the shelves are stocked with product, more product is often placed on the shelves than is normally required in a given period of time, sometimes in multiple facings on each shelf. Using multiple finishes tends to take up valuable shelf space that might otherwise be allocated to additional product selections to maximize customer satisfaction. Therefore, it may be beneficial to reduce the inventory of a particular product in a retail store.

Methods of reducing the amount of shelf space required are known. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,041,720 to Hardy and U.S. Patent No. 4,830,201 to Breslow, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, teach a system for organizing and displaying items on a shelf through the use of pusher assemblies.

In addition, retail operations are often responsible for rapidly changing customer product interests and implementing internal changes in response to rapid changes in customer product interest. As new products become more popular with customers, retailers are responsible for changing the shelf edge labels of products in order to attract customers to other products, sell specific products, or update product information such as pricing as quickly as possible.

Electronic shelf edge label devices allow retailers to manually replace one device representing a single product with another device representing another single product, or even change devices to provide different information about a single product, or from The output data is changed to data about another single product. However, expect further technological improvements and innovations in the retail space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or important features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Description of drawings

Several embodiments of the invention are shown by way of example, but not limited to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements, and in the drawings:

Figure 1a shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the invention including a pusher assembly and a sensor assembly.

Figure lb shows another isometric view of an embodiment of the invention including a pusher assembly and a sensor assembly.

Figure 2a shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sensor assembly for use with the present invention.

Figure 2b shows a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a sensor assembly for use with the present invention.

Figure 2c shows a schematic diagram of another alternative embodiment of a sensor assembly for use with the present invention.

Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention including an antenna, an access point and a store computer.

Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention including an access point, a store computer and a security camera.

Figure 5 shows a flow chart illustrating a method of providing data from a marker tape to a store computer.

FIG. 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a method of determining the amount of product on a shelf via a query from a store computer.

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart illustrating a method of updating the association of a particular product with a particular shelf location.

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart illustrating an alternative method of updating the association of a particular product with a particular shelf location.

Figure 9 shows an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 shows a partial exploded view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 11 shows an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12 shows an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13 shows an isometric view of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 shows an isometric view of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15A shows an isometric view of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15B shows a schematic diagram of the pusher assembly, beam and stationary mirror according to the embodiment shown in Figure 15A.

Figure 16A shows an isometric view of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 16B shows a schematic diagram of the pusher assembly, beam and stationary mirror according to the embodiment shown in Figure 16A.

Figure 17A shows an isometric view of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17B shows a schematic diagram of the pusher assembly, beam and stationary mirror according to the embodiment shown in Figure 17A.

18A-18C depict an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system.

19A and 19B schematically depict plan views of alternative embodiments of an exhibit management system.

Figure 20A schematically depicts a capacitive sensor.

Figure 20B schematically depicts the control circuit.

21A and 21B depict an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system.

Figure 22A schematically depicts an integrated accelerometer device.

Figure 22B schematically depicts an integrated accelerometer device in communication with a control circuit.

Figure 23 depicts an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system.

Figure 24 schematically depicts a sensor network configured to implement one or more inventory management, security and/or identification functions in conjunction with one or more display management systems.

25 schematically depicts a flow diagram of a process that may be performed by an exhibit management system controller device to determine the number of products removed from a sensor-equipped exhibit management system.

26 is a flowchart of a process for calculating the number of products removed from the display management system.

27 shows an example block diagram of an apparatus for transmitting and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

28A-28B illustrate example block diagrams of systems for delivering and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the invention.

29 shows an example block diagram of an apparatus for transmitting and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

30A-30B illustrate an example of changing a continuous display in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

31A-31C illustrate an example continuous display with a locking mechanism in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

31D-31F show examples of changing a continuous display with a locking mechanism user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

32A-32B illustrate an example of changing the size of a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the invention.

33A-33B illustrate an example of changing the shape of a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

34A-34B illustrate an example of changing the position of a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

35 illustrates an example method of distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

36 illustrates another example method of distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

37 shows an example block diagram of a system for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure.

38 depicts an illustrative computer system architecture that may be used in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects described herein.

39 depicts an example schematic diagram of a facility intelligence system.

40 depicts an example schematic diagram of an example computing device that may be configured as a hub.

41-44d depict example interactive displays.

Detailed ways

Before embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including" and "comprising" and variations thereof is meant to include the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof.

The present invention can be used with the racking and pusher assembly systems described in U.S. Patent No. 6,041,720 to Hardy or U.S. Patent No. 4,830,201 to Breslow. The present disclosure may also be used with other pusher assemblies and rack configurations known in the art.

Figure 1a shows an embodiment of the present disclosure. The shelf wall 1 is configured to support the shelf 5 . The shelf 5 has a front side 6 and a rear side 7, the front side 6 generally facing the aisle through which customers walk while shopping. Mounted on the shelf is the pusher assembly 15 . As depicted, the pusher assembly 15 includes a biasing mechanism, such as a leaf coil spring 20 containing a marker band 21 . The pusher assembly 15 also includes an integral dividing wall 22 and a floor portion 23 on one side of the dividing wall 22 and a floor portion 24 on the other side of the dividing wall 22 . A leaf coil spring 20 is operably connected to the pusher 25 and can be used to push the pusher 25 and associated product towards the front side 6 of the shelf 5. The pusher assembly 15 may be modular and may include dividing walls or additional floor sections that fit or fit in place.

As shown in FIG. 1 a , the sensor assembly 30 may be mounted to the underside of the floor 24 or shelf 5 and configured to read the marking tape 21 over which the pusher 25 travels. The sensor assembly 30 may be located anywhere along the floor 24 and is preferably near the coil springs 20. The marker strip 21 is configured to provide a pattern that includes a representation associated with the position of the pusher 25 . Thus, when the pusher 25 is moved as far as possible toward the rear side 7 (ie, full of product veneer), the sensor assembly 30 can scan the marking tape 21 for an indication that the pusher 25 is in that position.

The marking strip 21 is depicted in FIG. 1 a as a band mounted on the leaf coil spring 20 . The marking tape 21 may be printed on paper that may be attached to the coil spring 20, and may be black on white, white on black, or some other color in a known manner. Alternatively, the marking tape 21 may be printed or acid etched or laser etched in a known manner, depending on the sensor assembly 30 used to read the marking tape 21 . Also, the marker tape 21 can be separated from the coil spring 20 . In this embodiment, the marker band 21 may be mounted beside or near the coil spring 20 .

The representation contained in the pattern on the marker tape 21 may be optically readable, or may be read based on other methods, including but not limited to passive variable capacitance, inductance, resistance, or magnetic, or active signals detection.

FIG. 1 b depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a sensor assembly 30 is mounted on the front side of the pusher 25 , the sensor assembly 30 being configured to read the marker tape 21 . In alternative embodiments, the sensor assembly 30 may be mounted behind the pusher 25 . Depending on the position of the coil spring 20, the sensor assembly 30 can be installed in different places. Preferably, the sensor assembly 30 will be mounted in such a way that direct contact with products on the shelf is avoided, thereby minimizing damage to the sensor assembly 30 .

In another alternative embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 may be mounted in or on the pusher 25 and configured to read the marker tape 21 . In this embodiment, the marker strip 21 is not mounted to the coil spring or a portion of the coil spring; In one aspect of this embodiment, the marker strip 21 is of a type that can have variable magnetic or capacitive properties. The sensor assembly 30 may include an analog oscillator, the frequency of which is determined by the magnetism or capacitance of the marker strip 21 at a particular location of the pusher 25 . The oscillator can directly modulate the RF signal and send that signal to the central access point, as described below. The central access point can then demodulate this signal and use it to determine the position of the pusher 25 .

For black/white printed marking strips 21, an array of optical infrared or visible light LED retro-reflective sensors can be used. In one embodiment, the marker band 21 pattern containing the various representations may be 6 bits wide. In alternative embodiments, the pattern on the marker tape may be greater than 6 bits wide, depending on the width of the shelf and the desired precision.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the marker strip 21 may be less than 6 bits wide. Reducing the number of digits on the marking strip 21 reduces the accuracy associated with the position of the pusher 25, but has the advantage of possibly avoiding the need to determine the size of the product. Embodiments with reduced number of bits are discussed below. The marker strip will preferably include at least two representations so that the two representations can be used to reflect at least two positions of the pusher.

Depending on the marker strip 21 and the sensor assembly 30, the number of measurable positions of the pusher 25 may vary. For example, a configuration of a 6-bit wide pattern on marker tape 21 along with sensor assembly 30 that can scan 6 bits can scan at least 64 representations associated with 64 positions of pusher 25 . The representation in the pattern on the marking tape 21 can be of a variety of symbols, but the Gray Code specifies that only one bit will change in each movement increment, thereby reducing potential errors. The sensor assembly 30 and marker band 21 may be configured depending on the distance traveled by the pusher 25 and the intended size of the product.

In one embodiment, the coil spring 20 has a width of about 1 inch, and the marking strip 21 covers about 80% of the width of the coil spring 20 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other widths of the coil spring 20 and other dimensions of the marker band 21 are possible with the present invention.

In one embodiment, the number of products on the shelf may be measured by the number of measurable positions of the pusher 25 . In such an embodiment, the position of the pusher 25 can be used to determine the amount of product on the shelf without the need to manually count the products. In alternative embodiments, the number of measurable locations may exceed the number of products that may be placed in the veneer. In this alternative embodiment, the number of measurable locations is preferably an integer multiple of the number of products in order to facilitate the calculation of the quantity of products on the shelf. Therefore, increasing the number of measurable locations can improve the ability of the system to accurately calculate the amount of product in the finish. This may become even more important when the product package is very thin, so the incremental movement of the pusher 25 from one code to the next becomes a large percentage of the thickness of each product package it pushes.

Thus, the configuration of sensor assembly 30 and marker strip 21 may require an increased number of measurable locations as different products have different dimensions. For example, a configuration of measuring 256 positions of pusher 25 may be desirable. This configuration can be used to determine the actual number of products on the shelf for various product sizes.

In alternative embodiments, sensor assembly 30 and marker strip 21 may be configured to provide a reduced number of measurable locations. In one embodiment, four positions of the pusher 25 are measurable. In such a configuration, the shelf will provide information on how full the shelf is, but not the actual number of items on the shelf (assuming 4 products won't fill the finish). This configuration can be useful in providing automatic notification that the shelf will be empty of product and needs to be replenished, without the need to determine the size of the product.

FIG. 2a depicts a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sensor assembly 30 . A printed circuit board (“PCB”) 35 is configured to support sensors 50 that are compatible with a selected type of marker tape 21 . The controller 55 is mounted to the PCB 35 and is configured to control the sensor 50 and transmit a signal regarding the position of the pusher 25 via the antenna 65 . Controller 55 may be configured to actuate sensor 50 based on input from timing device 70 . The timing device 70 may include, but is not limited to, a low-power interval timer or a real-time clock, and is configured to provide information related to the passage of time.

For black/white printed marker strips 21, sensors 50 may include, but are not limited to, optical infrared or visible light LED retroreflective sensors. Preferably, for a 6-bit wide pattern, a linear array of 6 emitters/sensors will be used, with one emitter/sensor aligned with each bit position printed on the marking tape 21 . In one embodiment, the sensor 50 is positioned approximately 0.1 inches from the surface of the printing tape mounted on the marking tape 21 . As each emitter/sensor pair illuminates its bit position, a binary code can be assembled by the controller 55 that corresponds to a representation on the marker strip 21 that is associated with the position of the pusher 25 .

Regardless of how the position of the pusher 25 is determined, the controller 55 generates a pusher code representing the position of the pusher 25 . The pusher code can be in digital or analog form and reflects the position of the pusher 25 . Additionally, the pusher code can be processed data or unprocessed data. Thus, the pusher code may be, but is not limited to, a scanned representation or a controller processed representation. Alternatively, the pusher code may be some other data reflecting the relative position of the pusher 25 .

Controller 55 is powered by power source 75 . The power source 75 may be, but is not limited to, a long-life battery, a wired power source, or a solar panel. It will be appreciated that the type of power supply will have an impact on the functionality of the sensor assembly 30 . If the power source 75 is a long-life battery, a system configuration designed to utilize less energy would be preferred to avoid the need for frequent battery replacement. If the power source 75 is a wired power source, the sensor 50 can be used more frequently without the need for a supplemental power source, and the sensor assembly 30 can even be configured to provide real-time information.

The controller 55 can be manufactured with a unique serial number. In this embodiment, each pusher 25 will be associated with a unique serial number or identification code. Alternatively, each marker band 21 may include a unique identification code and representation associated with the position of the pusher 25 . Encoding the marker strip 21 with a unique identification code may reduce the complexity of the controller 55, but generally result in an increase in the complexity of the sensor 50. In any event, when the information is communicated from the sensor assembly 30, the information may include an identification code and a pusher code indicating the position of the pusher 25. In addition, information such as transmission time and circuit status or power supply status can also be communicated.

FIG. 2b shows a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of the sensor assembly 130. FIG. PCB 135 has power management circuitry 148 configured to minimize power usage. Power management circuitry 148 provides power to sensor 150 , controller 155 and associated memory 156 . The memory 156 may be volatile memory, such as dynamic random access memory, but preferably the memory is non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, to minimize power consumption. As depicted, power management circuitry 148 also provides power to communications controller 157. Power management circuitry 148 may also provide power to timing device 170 . As depicted, power management circuitry 148 is powered by power supply 175 .

In this embodiment, the input signal is provided to the controller 155 . The input signal may be a signal generated by the timing device 170, or may come from some other source. In response, controller 155 activates sensor 150 by sending a signal to power management circuit 148 . Controller 155 receives data from sensor 150 for forming a pusher code representing the position of pusher 25 . Controller 155 compares the data scanned by sensor 150 with previous data scanned by sensor 150 as data resident in memory 156 . Depending on the configuration of the system, if the data scanned by the sensor 150 is the same as previously scanned data, the controller 155 may be configured to wait until the end of the next interval of the timer. If the data scanned by the sensor 150 is different, the controller 155 may then activate the communication controller 157 and provide the pusher code to the communication controller 157 for transmission. Communication controller 157 may then transmit the pusher code for further processing. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "transmit", "transmit" include the transmission of information by wire or via a wireless system, and may be direct or indirect (ie, via a network). However, if the power source 175 is not a wired power source, it is preferable to use a communication method that consumes relatively little power.

FIG. 2c shows a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a sensor assembly 230. FIG. PCB 235 is configured to support sensor 250 and controller 255 . The controller 255 is powered by the power source 275 and is configured to control the sensor 250 and have integrated functions including, but not limited to, timing, power management, and communication control. In an alternate embodiment, the controller 255 transmits the data scanned by the sensor 250 without any processing of the data. Thus, in this embodiment, the pusher code is the data scanned by the sensor 250 . In another alternative embodiment, the sensor and controller may be integrated together.

FIG. 3 shows a possible configuration for providing data regarding the position of the pusher 25 to a processing device such as a store computer 90 . As depicted, access point 80 is configured to communicate information to central access point 85 . The central access point 85 is connected to the store computer 90 and provides data received from the access point 80 to the store computer 90 . Data transmitted from access point 80 is received from antenna 165, antenna 265 and antenna 365. Antenna 165 is typically associated with a particular pusher 25 and sensor assembly 30 through the use of a unique serial number that can be associated with the controller. Antenna 265 and antenna 365 are also associated with different pusher 25 and sensor assemblies 30, each pusher 25 and sensor assembly 30 having a unique serial number. Alternatively, one or more antennas may be associated with more than one pusher 25 .

In general, the power required to transmit wireless signals increases as the transmission distance increases. Therefore, especially for battery powered controllers, the preferred wireless communication configuration will transmit low power signals over short distances. As shown in FIG. 3, the various antennas 165, 265 and 365 transmit wireless signals to access points 80 located in the vicinity, so low power transmission is appropriate. The access point 80 then retransmits the signal to the central access point 85 using higher power during the secondary transmission. In this way, the power supply for the various controllers connected to the antennas 165, 265, and 365 can more easily utilize the power supply 75 consisting of long-life batteries. Although the method of transmission between the access point 80 and the central access point 85 is depicted as wireless, the access point 80 and the central access point 85 may also communicate via wires.

In an alternate embodiment, the controller 55 corresponding to each pusher 25 may be hardwired to the access point 80 such that the controller 55 transmits data to the access point 80 over one or more wires. The access point 80 can then transmit the data to the store computer 90 . In another alternative embodiment, the data is communicated directly from the sensor assembly 30 to the store computer 90 . In this embodiment, the transmission may be wireless, such as infrared, ultrasonic or electromagnetic wave transmission, or may be hardwired. Depending on the transfer method, it may be desirable to transfer data from sensor assembly 30 to store computer 90 via a network protocol that can compensate for or minimize communication errors.

The use of a wired connection can provide a useful source of power and can reduce the likelihood of communication conflicts, especially if the signal is directed to the store computer 90 . Furthermore, by providing additional power, the controller 55 can be configured to provide real-time updates on product levels on shelves or in stores so that more accurate decisions can be made as to the need to order additional products. This configuration also makes it possible to identify and send alerts regarding potential theft situations based on real-time movement of the pusher 25 . Real-time product information may make it feasible to provide a more responsive inventory system, thereby reducing inventory levels in stores, and thus lowering inventory costs.

Wireless systems, on the other hand, offer increased installation flexibility and can be easily installed on existing racks without the need to install wires for power or communications. In addition, the use of a wireless system allows for a step-by-step installation of the inventory system. For example, items of high value (and thus subject to an increased likelihood of theft) or items that tend to have significantly changing customer needs may be monitored first.

In one embodiment, the sensor assemblies 30 may be networked together via a series of wireless access points 80 , where each access point 80 accepts transmissions from any sensor assembly 30 in the vicinity of the access point 80 . Thus, in one embodiment, there are multiple wireless access points 80 and the access points 80 are connected via a network that transmits data to the store computer 90 . In an alternate embodiment, each wireless access point 80 transmits data directly to the store computer 90 .

Naturally, some combinations of network and direct transfer are also possible and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. For example, battery powered sensor assembly 30 may communicate via low power wireless transmission with access point 80 powered by a wired power source. The access points will transmit wireless signals to a central access point 85 powered by wired power. The central access point 85 may be wired to the store computer 90.

Referring back to Figure 2a, if the timing device 70 includes a low power timer, the controller 55 may sleep until a signal from the timing device 70 indicates that it is time to send an update on the position of the pusher 25. An example of a low power timer includes a low power, low cost interval timer. Low power, low cost interval timers may not be very accurate, so multiple pusher units in a store will likely randomize their transmission times to reduce transmission collisions. The period of data transfer is usually on the order of a few milliseconds, so simultaneous transmission of signals from different controllers is unlikely. This possibility is further reduced if the controllers are not activated at the same time. If the transfer occurs only a few times per day (ie to provide periodic updates of the quantity of products on the shelf), the likelihood of communication conflicts is further reduced. In addition, the reduced transmission frequency and short transmission cycle help reduce the amount of power consumption.

In an alternative embodiment, the sensor 50 continuously monitors the marker tape 21 . As the product is removed from the shelf, the pusher 25 will move and the sensor 50 can scan for a new representation on the marker strip 21 corresponding to the new position of the pusher 25 . The controller 55 may then send a transmission to the store computer 90 including the new position of the pusher 25 (ie, the controller 55 may send the new pusher code). In this alternate embodiment, store computer 90 may monitor the amount of product on the shelf in real time.

As shown in FIG. 3, the signal transmission from the antenna 165 to the store computer 90 is, for example, a one-way transmission. In an alternate embodiment, the system may be arranged to handle the bi-directional transmission of signals between the sensor assembly 30 and the store computer 90 . In a two-way wireless system, additional hardware, such as a receiver, is included in the sensor assembly 30 . A two-way system allows for the transfer of information in both directions.

For example, the store computer 90 may query a particular controller 55 regarding the location of the associated pusher 25 . The controller 55 may activate the sensor 50 in response to the query and determine a pusher code reflecting the position of the pusher 25 . The controller 55 may then transmit the pusher code to the store computer 90 along with the identity code of the controller 55 . Based on the pusher code, the store computer 90 can determine the inventory level of the product. To avoid activating the wrong controller 55, the store computer 90 may include an identification code in the transmission. The store computer 90 may store, access and perform functions using the identification codes of all or a subset of the controllers or pusher systems in the store.

In one embodiment, all controllers 55 associated with products purchased from the same supplier may be queried before placing an order with the corresponding supplier. The order for that supplier can then be updated with the latest product inventory information. In this way, orders placed with suppliers can be more accurate without laborious product counts on the shelves.

Some suppliers, rather than store personnel, are responsible for stocking shelves in retail stores. Where a supplier is responsible for stocking shelves, embodiments of the present invention may provide updates to the supplier in response to a query from the supplier's computer. In one embodiment, the supplier can track the amount of product available on the shelf from time to time, even in real time, as needed.

For example, the provider may send a query to the controller 55 via a wide area network ("WAN"). The controller 55 may determine the position of the pusher 25 and transmit the signal back to the supplier via the WAN. In an alternate embodiment, the supplier may communicate with the store computer 90 to obtain information regarding the inventory levels of products on the shelf.

In one embodiment, the supplier may control the manufacturing process of the product in response to the inventory level on the shelf. It will be appreciated that if multiple stores are networked with the supplier's computer, the supplier will have an increasingly efficient inventory system that allows the total amount of product on all store shelves to be determined. If the supplier is only connected to a single store, this information, while not sufficient to indicate total inventory, can provide valuable details about customer behavior patterns.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the present invention including the use of a security camera 195 . As depicted, access point 180 receives a signal from controller 155 indicating that pusher 25 (not shown) has moved. The access point 180 transmits the signal to the central access point 185 connected to the store computer 190. The store computer 190 determines that the rate of change in the product level of the product associated with the controller 155 is indicative of potential theft. The store computer 190 then transmits the signal wired or wirelessly to the antenna 196 mounted to the security camera 195. This signal instructs the security camera 195 to monitor the location associated with the location of the controller 155 . Understandably, security personnel can sometimes provide a more granular response, so it is advantageous to notify security personnel. Accordingly, the store computer 190 may also display a warning on the store computer screen, or by sending a signal to a security computer, or by activating an audible sound or flashing light in the vicinity of a potential theft, or by other known notification methods such as to Signals from pagers or buzzers carried by security personnel) notify security personnel to monitor the area.

Information from the security camera can be sent to a television or other visual display device located near where the potential theft occurs. The visual display device may display an image of a potential thief so that the potential thief may be aware of the fact that the thief is being watched.

It will be appreciated that the controller 155 preferably monitors the position of the pusher 25 frequently or even in real time in order to provide a more timely response. If utilizing a power supply 75 consisting of long-life batteries, it may be beneficial to utilize a controller that can determine potential theft without the need to transmit data to the store computer 190. In such an embodiment, the controller may be configured to transmit data to provide inventory level updates and also provide security notifications.

It will be appreciated that the location of the potential theft relative to the security camera 195 will facilitate providing the security camera 195 with instructions to focus on a particular location. This location information may be generated by a variety of methods, including providing the store computer 190 with the security camera coordinate system of the security camera 195 . The position of the controller 155 relative to the security camera 195 can be determined during setup and during a potential theft situation; the position of the controller 155 can be used to direct the focus of the security camera 195. Alternatively, the security camera 195 may be configured to focus on several locations, such as three points along the aisle, and the store computer 190 may indicate which location is most suitable for a particular situation. The described method is illustrative as there are various methods of controlling the security camera 195 .

In embodiments with two-way communication between store computer 190 and controller 155, store computer 190 may signal controller 155 to activate a device capable of providing an audible warning sound.

In another embodiment, the controller 155 may determine that a potential theft has occurred and may provide a notification, including the sound of an audible warning sound. Additionally, the controller 155 may transmit the signal to the store computer 190 . In this alternative embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 would preferably include a timing device 70 to allow the controller 155 to more easily determine whether the rate of movement of the pusher 25 exceeds a preset level.

In another embodiment, a two-layer response can be achieved. If the position of the pusher 25 changes more than normal, a signal may be transmitted to the security camera 195 . Alternatively, inaudible notifications can be provided directly to security personnel. Audible alarms and flashing lights may also be activated if a change in the position of the pusher 25 more clearly indicates potential theft. Therefore, the response can be configured to match the situation more carefully.

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of a method for determining the amount of a particular product available in a finish on a shelf. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 uses a timing device 70 consisting of a low power interval timer. The controller 55 is initially in a dormant state with only the timer device 70 running. In step 400, the timing device 70 provides a signal to the controller 55 that the time interval is complete. In step 405 , the controller 55 becomes active in response to a signal from the timing device 70 , and the controller 55 then activates the sensor 50 .

In step 410 , the sensor 50 scans the representation contained in the pattern on the marker tape 21 so that the controller 55 can generate a pusher code representing the position of the pusher 25 . In step 415 , the controller 55 generates a pusher code in response to the pattern scanned by the sensor 50 . In step 420, the controller 55 transmits a signal to the store computer 90, which may include the controller 55's unique serial number and pusher code.

Next, in step 430 , the store computer 90 receives data from the controller 55 . In one embodiment, the data transfer from the controller 55 to the store computer 90 is direct. In another embodiment, the controller 55 transmits data to the store computer 90 indirectly through an access point or network.

Then, in step 440, the store computer 90 calculates the amount of product on the shelf based on the position of the pusher 25. The store computer 90 also updates the inventory list at this time. In embodiments where multiple finishes have the same product, the total amount of product on all finishes with that product can be calculated. In one embodiment, the calculation of the product in the veneer can be done by using the product's database and the product's relative dimensions and the position of the pusher. In another embodiment, the number of products placed in the veneer may be provided during setup of the controller 55 for that product. The position of the pusher 25 and the quantity of product corresponding to that position of the pusher 25 can be used to calculate the quantity of remaining product based on the later position of the pusher 25 by using well-known extrapolation techniques.

In another embodiment, the position of the pusher 25 may be four positions representing X>3/4, 3/4≥X>1/2, 1/2≥X>1/4 and X≤1/4 one of the. The latter embodiment provides less precise information, but also requires less computational effort to provide approximate inventory levels. Additionally, this embodiment can be used to manage inventory without the need to determine and track product dimensions. In one embodiment, the amount of product on the shelf may be based on the number of finishes containing the product and whether the pusher 25 is in a position representing a full, nearly full, low or nearly empty finish for each finish. Roughly determined.

In step 450, the store computer 90 determines whether any action is required. In one embodiment, potential theft, a reduction in inventory below a predetermined level, or the emptying of a product finish while there is still plenty of product remaining on the shelf in other finishes, would indicate the need for some action. For example, store computer 90 may determine that the current inventory level is low based on historical usage and average delivery times and cost per delivery. In an alternate embodiment, a minimum inventory level may be preset, and once the inventory level falls below the preset level, the store computer 90 may determine that the product level is low.

In step 460, the store computer 90 will determine whether a potential theft has occurred. In one embodiment, store computer 90 may compare current inventory levels to previous inventory levels based on the position of pusher 25 . If the rate of change in the inventory level exceeds a preset level, the store computer 90 will determine that a potential theft is occurring. In step 465, the store computer 90 will notify security. The notification may include a call to security or a signal to security cameras 195 to focus in a particular direction.

Next, in step 470, the store computer 90 will determine whether the existing order needs to be modified. Store computer 90 may compare current product demand with current orders. If store computer 90 determines that the quantity of product ordered is insufficient, store computer 90 will proceed to step 475. In step 475, the store computer 90 will update the current inventory order so that the inventory order matches the current product demand.

Next, in step 480, the store computer 90 will determine whether the finish on the shelf is empty. If there are empty finishes, the store computer 90 will then notify the store administrator in step 485 that there are undesired empty finishes. Store management can then decide the appropriate action to take depending on the product type and availability of alternatives. If the finish is not empty, the store computer 90 will wait until the next product update.

6 depicts an embodiment of a method for determining the amount of inventory on a shelf in a two-way system. In step 510 , store computer 90 sends a query to sensor assembly 30 . Sensor assembly 30 contains controller 55 identified by a unique serial number or identification code.

In step 520 , the sensor assembly 30 receives a query from the store computer 90 . In response to the query, the controller 55 activates the sensor 50 and prepares to receive data reflecting the position of the pusher 25 . In step 530, the sensor 50 scans the marker strip 21 and the controller 55 generates a pusher code representing the position of the pusher 25.

In step 540 , the sensor assembly 30 transmits the pusher code representing the position of the pusher 25 to the store computer 90 along with the unique serial number of the controller 55 .

Next, in step 550 the store computer 90 receives the transmission. The transmission may be sent directly from the sensor assembly 30 to the store computer 90, or preferably, it may be sent indirectly through a network. Transmissions may be sent wirelessly, over wires, or some combination of wireless and wired transmissions.

Then, in step 560, the store computer 90 determines the inventory level on the shelf. In one embodiment, this determination may be based on the product size and the position of the pusher 25 . In alternative embodiments, the determination may be based solely on the position of the pusher 25 .

Figure 7 depicts an embodiment of a method for setting up a controller for a particular product. In step 610, the product may be placed on the shelf in the appropriate finish. Optionally, step 610 may be skipped and setup may begin at step 620 .

In step 620, a setup button on the handheld device is pressed. The handheld device is configured to transmit a signal to the store computer 90 indicating that the user of the handheld device is to associate the product with the serial number or identification code of the controller 55 . Preferably, the signal transfer between the handheld device and the store computer 90 is done wirelessly. In one embodiment, store computer 90 provides feedback to the user indicating that store computer 90 is ready to proceed. In alternate embodiments, no feedback is provided.

Next, in step 630, the UPC code of the product is scanned and transmitted to the store computer 90. Then, in step 640, the store computer 90 looks up the product size based on the UPC code. If the UPC code does not have the size listed, then in step 642 the store computer 90 checks to see if the user can enter the desired size. If the user cannot, the setup is over and the user can try to setup a new product. If the user can determine the size, in step 644 the user enters the size.

Next, in step 646, the size is associated with the UPC code. Then, in step 650, the store computer 90 sends a signal to the handheld device to indicate that the user should proceed with setup.

Next, in step 660, the user activates the controller 55 with the handheld device. In one embodiment, the optical setting sensor is mounted on the pusher assembly and connected to the controller 55 . Preferably, the sensor is recessed into the pusher 25, but could be mounted in other locations, such as on the top or side of the pusher 25. The handheld device will be configured to transmit a signal to the setup sensor. The act of transmitting the setup signal to the setup sensor will cause the controller 55 to wake up from the sleep state.

Then in step 670, in response to the setup signal, the controller 55 will send data to the store computer 90 indicating that the controller 55 is being setup. The data will include the unique serial number of the controller 55. The data may also include a generic setup code or setup code corresponding to the handheld scanner, and may include a pusher code representing the position of pusher 25 . In situations where multiple handheld devices are used simultaneously, it may be beneficial to provide a setup code associated with a particular handheld device.

Next, in step 680 , the store computer 90 will receive data from the controller 55 . If the data includes a pusher code, the store computer 90 can now calculate the amount of product in the finish. In step 685, the store computer 90 sends a signal to the handheld device that the controller 55 has been set up and associated with the UPC code for the particular product. Additionally, if the position of the pusher 25 is initially included, the store computer 90 may also provide a calculation of the current number of products in the finish just set. In addition, the store computer 90 requests the user to verify that the setting information is correct.

Finally, in step 690, the user indicates that the information is correct. In the case of verification, the setting of the controller 55 is completed. To change the product associated with the controller 55, the process can be repeated.

Figure 8 shows an alternative method of associating a controller with a product. In step 710, the handheld device is activated to indicate to the user that the controller 55 is about to be set up. Activation includes transmitting a signal to the store computer 90 .

In step 720, the handheld device is used to scan the product's UPC code and transmit this information to the store computer 90. Next, in step 730, the store computer 90 checks to see if the product size for the scanned UPC code is listed. In the absence of a size associated with the UPC code, in step 732 the computer sends a signal to the handheld device requesting the user to enter the appropriate product size.

If the user does not know the product size or cannot measure the size, the user may cancel the setup in step 734 and start over with the setup of the new product.

If the user does know the size or is able to measure it, the user then enters the size and transmits the information to the store computer 90 in step 736 . After the product size is determined, in step 740, the store computer 90 sends a signal to the handheld device indicating that the user should proceed.

Next, in step 750, the user scans the serial number of the controller 55. Preferably, the serial number of the controller 55 is printed on a sticker mounted to the sensor assembly 30 in a black/white code. After scanning the serial number, the handheld transmits the serial number to the store computer 90 .

Then, in step 760 , the store computer 90 associates the UPC code of the product with the serial number of the controller 55 . The store computer 90 then signals the handheld device that the setup of the device is complete. To avoid potential communication problems during setup, all communications between the handheld and store computer 90 may include code representing the handheld.

In an alternate embodiment, the method of associating a product with the controller 55 may be accomplished without sending a signal to the store computer 90 . In this embodiment, once the user associates the various controllers with the various products, the data will be uploaded from the handheld device.

As can be appreciated, many methods of associating a product with the controller 55 are possible, and thus the above methods are illustrative.

Systems have been described with marker strips and sensors for determining the position of the pusher. There are many additional methods for measuring the distance between the front or rear of the shelf and the pusher or the last product in the product finish. Based on this distance, and knowing the dimensions of the product in the veneer, a simple calculation can be performed to determine the number of products in the veneer. This calculation may be performed by a microprocessor, store computer, controller, or other processing device that has received information about the distance between the front of the shelf and the final product in the veneer. Additionally, the pusher assembly has been described as including a spring. However, some other biasing method, such as gravity or magnetism, will also move the pusher and product forward.

In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 9, the use of transmitted light or other signals (such as radio frequency signals) passing between a position near the back of the product finish and a rest position can be used to measure the front of the shelf the distance between the part and the pusher. In one embodiment, the launcher 700 or 702 is incorporated into the pusher 725 . The transmitter periodically or continuously generates light or other signals that can be transmitted on command. Light or signals may be generated using light emitting diodes (LEDs), radio frequency or ultrasonic generators, or other signal generating devices.

The corresponding receivers are incorporated into a stationary position relative to the pusher 725 . Receiver 712 may be incorporated into the front rail or another location at or near the front of the rack, receiver 730 may be incorporated into the rear rail or other location at or near the rear of the rack, which also Can be incorporated into the floor of the rack, the track of the pusher, the top of the rack or in the divider wall. The receiver detects the signal sent from the transmitter. For example, LEDs can radiate light with a specific intensity. A phototransistor acting as a receiver detects the light signal emitted from the LED. The sensitivity of the phototransistor and the intensity of the LED can be adjusted by the microprocessor in order to adjust the overall sensitivity of the optics. In one embodiment, this adjustment can be done remotely. Thus, the transmitter may wirelessly communicate with the receiver by RF, IR or other known means such as magnetic fields, electric fields, acoustic waves, etc.

Transmitters and receivers can communicate with a controller that tracks transmission and reception times. This data can be provided to a processing device such as a microprocessor or store computer, so in this embodiment the pusher code will include the time interval between sending and receiving. The information about the time at which the signal was sent and the time at which the signal was received may be used by the processing device to determine the time between transmission and reception of the signal. Based on this length of time, the processing means can calculate the distance between the transmitter and receiver. Knowing the dimensions of the rack, the pusher system and its components, this distance can then be translated into the distance between the front side 6 of the rack and the face of the pusher 25 that is offset against the back of the product facing. Such conversions are well known and within the knowledge of the ordinary skilled artisan. If the relevant dimensions of the product in the finish are known, the processing device may then calculate the quantity of the product in the finish based on the known dimensions of the product.

In an alternate embodiment, the transmitter and receiver switch positions. The transmitter may be placed at the front of the shelf, or at the back, or near the front, or near the back, or at other relatively stationary locations, and the receiver may be placed on or near the pusher. In alternative embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may be incorporated into the same device that simply reflects the signal from a stationary position. For example, a reflector can be placed on the pusher, and a transmitter/receiver using a laser or other light source can determine the distance between the reflector and the transmitter/receiver based on the travel time. Examples of possible transmitter/receivers include, but are not limited to, optical displacement measurement sensors and reflective laser sensors. It will be appreciated that if transmitters and receivers are used to determine distance, it is preferred that the location of the stationary part be located near the front or rear side of the rack to make distance calculations simpler and to avoid the need for stationary units mounted to racks. The problem of symmetrical distances on both sides. For example, mounting the launcher midway between the front and rear of the shelf would make determining the position of the pusher more complicated since there would be two possible positions for a given distance.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9 , the launchers ( 700 , 702 ) are incorporated into the pusher 725 . The emitters are light emitting diodes and are located anywhere on the pusher 725 that allows the emitters to function. The launcher may be located at 700 at the top of the pusher 725 or at 702 at the base of the pusher 725 or at other locations on the pusher 725 .

The receiver is located at a fixed position relative to the movement of the pusher 725 . The receiver may be a phototransistor and may be located on the front of the shelf 705 (such as receiver 710 ), or on the front rail 708 (such as receiver 712 ) connected to the front of the shelf. The receiver may further be located at any number of locations on the floor of the rack as shown at 714 , at 716 on the floor of the pusher track, or at a location above the rack 705 , such as at another location mounted above the rack 705 . on a shelf (not shown). The receiver may be located at 720 or 722 on the dividing wall or at other locations on the dividing wall. The receiver may also be located at 730 or 732 near the rear side 707 . Preferably, the receiver will be mounted near the front side 706 or the rear side 707 to make distance calculations simpler.

The receiver and transmitter can also switch positions. The pusher may incorporate the receiver, and the transmitter may be incorporated at any of the positions 710-732 and any other position that is fixed relative to the movement of the pusher. Preferably, however, the location of the transmitter will be near the front side 706 or the rear side 707 in order to make distance calculations simpler.

In one embodiment, the transmitter is located at 700 and the receiver is located at 710 . The launcher 700 mounted on the pusher 725 moves with the pusher 725 when the pusher moves backward or forward on the shelf. When the pusher 725 is located near the back of the shelf, the signal will take a certain amount of time to propagate from the transmitter 700 to the receiver 710. When the pusher 725 is located closer to the front of the shelf, it will take less time for the signal to propagate from the transmitter 700 to the receiver 710. Data regarding the transmission and reception of signals (ie, pusher code) is sent to a microprocessor or other processing device. The processing device determines the amount of time it takes for the signal to travel from the transmitter to the receiver. Knowing the speed of signal propagation, the processing means determines the distance between the transmitter and receiver.

By understanding the position of the transmitter relative to the product and understanding the position of the receiver relative to the front or back of the rack, the processing device will be able to determine the distance between the pusher and the front of the rack. Using the dimensions of the product, the processing device can then determine the quantity of product in the finish. Light emitting diodes or other transmitters may be set to function periodically, continuously, or upon command from a remote location.

Alternatively, the processing device may control both the LED and the phototransistor. The processing device may record the time T1 when the microprocessor issues a command to generate a pulse from the LED and the time T2 when the phototransistor detects the light signal. Both times T1 and T2 can be stored in memory and used to determine the quantity of product in the finish using the above relationship.

In an alternative sensing environment, capacitive proximity sensors can be used to measure the distance between the front of the shelf and the last product in the pusher or product finish. The capacitive proximity sensor detects the pusher that is the target of the capacitive proximity sensor. Capacitive proximity sensors generate an electrostatic field that is directed towards the target. When the distance of the pusher relative to the position of the capacitive proximity sensor changes, the capacitive proximity sensor reacts to the change in capacitance caused by the movement of the pusher relative to the sensor.

Additional sensing environments may also include the use of magnetic proximity sensors or inductive proximity sensors. In both sensing environments, proximity sensors can be used to measure the distance between the front of the shelf and the pusher or the last product in the product finish.

Inductive proximity sensors are useful in detecting metallic targets because inductive proximity sensors use an inductive field to sense the target object. In embodiments with an inductive proximity sensor, the proximity of the pusher relative to the inductive proximity sensor may be detected when the distance of the pusher relative to the position of the inductive proximity sensor changes. Similarly, a magnetic proximity sensor based on the Hall effect principle can also be used to sense the position of the pusher.

In one embodiment, a proximity sensor may be mounted near the rear side 707 , the proximity sensor being configured to sense the distance to the pusher 25 . A processing device such as a store computer or microprocessor can determine the distance between the pusher 725 and the front side 706 and use this distance to determine how much product is left on the shelf.

In an alternate embodiment, a radio frequency identification transponder ("RFIT") with a unique identification code is mounted to the pusher 725. A sensor assembly including a transmitter/receiver may be mounted on the rear side 707 of the shelf 705 . The transmitter/receiver, when activated, transmits an activation signal that activates the RFIT. The RFIT transmits a response signal including a unique identification code upon activation. The transmitter/receiver receives the response signal from the RFIT. The sensor assembly is equipped with a timing device and measures the time between the initial transmission of a signal from the transmitter/receiver until the receipt of a response signal from the RFIT. In one embodiment, the controller may initiate the transmission of the signal and record the receipt of the response signal in memory. The controller is also equipped with a timing device to measure the delay. The time delay can be used to calculate the distance between the transmitter/receiver and the RFIT. In one embodiment, the controller may calculate the distance and provide a pusher code that includes the distance. Alternatively, the pusher code would include data on the delay, and the pusher code would be forwarded to the processing device for distance calculations. As mentioned above, the distance between the pusher 25 and the transmitter/receiver can be used to calculate the amount of product remaining in the shelf.

The advantage of using RFIT in combination with a transmitter/receiver is that it can be easily retrofitted to existing systems. Since the RFIT does not require internal power, this embodiment eliminates the need to provide powered devices on the pusher 725. However, the transmitter/receiver is powered. Preferably, the transmitter/receiver transmits a focused or low power signal such that only the RFIT associated with the transmitter/receiver is activated. Alternatively, the transmitter/receiver ignores response signals from the RFIT that do not include an appropriate unique identification code.

In another alternative embodiment, a low power single chip radar sensor may be used to determine the distance between the radar sensor and the pusher 725 . Preferably, a radar sensor may be mounted near the rear side 707 in order to make distance determination simpler.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a device for measuring the tension of the spring used to push the product may be used. The tension on the spring will depend at least in part on the amount of product in front of the pusher. The spring compresses or expands further as more product is placed in front of the pusher. In the case of a coil spring, the ends of the spring move further apart and the spring expands further as more product is placed in front of the pusher. As the spring unwinds, the amount of tension or pressure within the remaining coil of the spring increases. By measuring the tension of the spring, the length of the deployed spring can be determined.

The spring tension measurement device may contain a processing device or may transmit the information it measures to a microprocessor or other processing device. Using a prior understanding of how the tension on the spring is related to the length of the spring, the processing device can determine the amount or length of the deployed spring. For example, if the coil spring has a fixed spring constant "k", the length of the unrolled spring can be calculated using the formula F=-kX. This information can be used to determine the distance between the front of the rack and the pusher. By knowing the dimensions of the product, the computing device can then determine the number of products in the finish.

The spring tension measurement device may include a force measurement unit including, but not limited to, strain gauges, tensiometers, torque transducers, or some other force measurement device to determine the tension exerted on the coil spring. The force measurement unit is preferably connected to a controller, wherein the controller is configured to convert data from the force measurement unit into force values. The controller can then communicate the force value to the processing device. In this embodiment, the pusher code will include the force value. Many other methods of measuring spring tension will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of the present invention.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the amount of product remaining in a particular finish is determined in part by using one or more transmitters and one or more receivers placed on opposite lateral sides of the product. In one embodiment, the transmitter or receiver may be placed on a dividing wall separating the product finishes. In one embodiment, a series of emitters are incorporated into or on the base of the dividing wall. A series of receivers are incorporated into or on the other side of the dividing wall. In this way, when products are on the shelf, those products that are pushed are between the transmitters on one divider wall and the receivers on the other divider wall.

The transmitter sends the signal periodically (when promoted) or continuously. If there is no product between the transmitter and receiver, the receiver will receive the signal. If there is a product between the transmitter and receiver, the product will block the signal and the receiver will not receive the signal.

The microprocessor receives information as to whether the respective receivers received the signal. From this information, the microprocessor can determine the approximate distance between the front of the veneer and the final product in the veneer. By knowing the dimensions of the product, information about the reception and non-reception of the signal can be translated into an understanding of the approximate quantity of the product in a particular finish. In one embodiment, one transmitter and one receiver are used to indicate that the associated product on a particular shelf is becoming insufficient. In this embodiment, the transmitter/receiver location is preferably closer to the front side 706 than to the rear side 707 . Preferably, a controller with a unique identification code is associated with the transmitter and receiver so that the unique identification code can be associated with the product.

The transmitter and receiver can be incorporated into the same device that attempts to bounce a signal from a predetermined target fixed to a particular location. If the signal bounces as expected, it indicates that there is no product between the transmitter and the target location. If the signal does not bounce as expected, there is a product between the transmitter and the target location.

10 depicts a partially exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a shelf and pusher assembly, the shelf having a dividing wall. As shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of emitters 750 are placed on the left side of the partition wall near the bottom. As shown at 752, the emitter can also be placed higher on the dividing wall. The corresponding receiver 760 is placed on the right side of the dividing wall near the bottom. As shown at 762, these receivers can also be placed higher on the dividing wall. The receiver and transmitter are positioned so that unobstructed signals can be sent from the transmitter and received by the corresponding receiver. When a product, such as product P, is positioned in front of the pusher, the product may obstruct the signal sent from the transmitter. As shown in Figure 10, product P (shown in phantom) will prevent the signal from reaching the receiver 760 closest to the front side 6 of the shelf. Receivers positioned further back than product P will receive the signal sent to them. The microprocessor receives information as to whether each receiver 760 received a signal. Based on this information, the microprocessor can determine the distance between the front of the shelf and the last product in a particular finish. By knowing the width of each product, the microprocessor can determine the number of products in a particular finish.

In one embodiment of the invention, the pusher contacts various sensing devices as it moves backwards or forwards on the shelf. The sensing device is placed on the surface below, above or to the side of the pusher. These sensing devices include mechanical, electrical and electromechanical, optical and magnetic devices, and may include spring loaded latches, electrical contacts, light emitting diodes or metal wires or other sensors such as linear position sensors.

As the pusher moves backwards or forwards on the shelf, it interacts with the sensing device. The pusher can interact with the device through mechanical contact between the pusher and the device. The pusher may also be equipped with independent sensing means that interact with the stationary sensing means when the pusher is moved backwards or forwards.

Information about the interaction between the pusher and the sensing device (ie the pusher code) is sent to the processing device. Based on the determination of the device interacting with the pusher, the processing device may determine the approximate position of the pusher relative to the front of the shelf. By knowing product data, such as the dimensions of the product, the processing device can then determine the approximate amount of product in a particular finish associated with the pusher and sensing device.

In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the sensing devices 810, 811 and 812 are incorporated into the base of the track on which the product rests. When the product rests directly on the switch, the sensing device is turned off. When the product is removed and the pusher 825 travels forward, the sensing device at the rear of the pusher 825 is released and turned on. The controller determines which sensing devices are turned on or off. Based on this information, the processing device can determine the approximate distance between the pusher 825 and the front side 806 of the shelf. Knowing the dimensions of the product, the processing unit can determine the quantity of product in a particular finish.

In an alternate embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 , sensing devices 814 , 815 , 816 , 817 and 818 are placed on the pusher track 802 . Individual contacts (not shown) are placed on the bottom of the pusher 825 . The contacts on the pusher 825 are configured such that the sensing devices on the pusher track 802 are activated when the contacts on the pusher 825 are adjacent to the sensing devices mounted on the pusher track 802 . When the sensing device is activated, a signal is sent to the processing device which provides information on which sensing device has been activated. Based on this information, the processing device can determine the approximate distance of the pusher from the front of the shelf. Knowing additional data about the product, such as product dimensions, the processing device can determine the quantity of product in a particular finish.

For example, while the contact 816 is activated, the processing device may determine that the amount of product is equal to the amount of product that may be placed in the space between the contact 816 and the front side 806 of the shelf 801 . Where contact 816 is activated and then deactivated, the processing device may determine that pusher 825 is between contacts 815 and 817 . Thus, this provides the approximate location of the pusher 825, and this approximate location can be used to determine the approximate amount of product remaining on the shelf. In one embodiment, the contacts can be spaced closer together near the front side 806 of the shelf 801 so that more accurate measurements can be made as the amount of product on the shelf decreases. Alternatively, enough contacts may be used to provide a relatively precise position of the pusher 825 .

In an alternate embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13 , contacts 819 , 820 , 821 and 822 may be mounted to partition wall 803 . As with contacts 814-818, activation of one of contacts 819-822 indicates the position or approximate position of pusher 825. Positioning the contacts along the divider wall 803 can help prevent problems with accidental activation of the contacts by products on the shelf. As with the contacts mounted in the pusher track 802, the distance between the contacts 819-822 may be non-uniform, providing greater accuracy as the shelf becomes less full.

In an alternative embodiment similar to that described above, a shelf management system 900 for detecting and communicating the position of a pusher assembly on a shelf is depicted in FIG. 14 . Shelf management system 900 may include pusher assembly 915 , light assembly and control module 940 . Pusher assembly 915 , light assembly and control module 940 may all be secured to display stand wall 905 or similar structure that holds product 910 . Product 910 may be aligned or arranged along pusher assembly 915 . Additionally, as shown in FIG. 14 , the product 910 may be contained in a separate product container box 912 .

As shown, the pusher assembly 915 may include a biasing mechanism such as a coil spring. The pusher assembly 915 may include an integral divider wall 922 and a floor portion 920 on one or both sides of the divider wall 922 . A coil spring may be operably connected or associated with pusher 925 and may be used to push pusher 925 and associated product 910 toward the front side of the shelf. Pusher assembly 915 may be modular and may include dividing walls or additional floor sections that fit or fit in place. Additionally, since the present invention is not connected to the pusher assembly 915, the present invention can work with any product shelving system.

The light assembly may include an optical channel 930 and an optical transceiver 932 . Optical transceiver 932 may be one of many optical transceivers located on optical channel 930 . The optical transceiver 932 may be located behind the product 910 being measured on the shelf. Optical transceiver 932 may consist of optical transmitter 934 and optical sensor 936 . Light transmitter 934 is configured to transmit light signal 935 towards pusher 925, and light sensor 936 is configured to receive light signal 935 from pusher 925. In alternative embodiments, light transmitter 934 and light sensor 936 may be the same components as part of light transceiver 932 . The spacing of the light emitters 934 and light sensors 936 on the light channel 930 can ensure that at least one light emitter 934 and one light sensor 936 are focused on or seen by each pusher 925 . Additionally, optical channel 930 may include electrical connections 938 .

The lamp assembly may utilize one of many different types of light without departing from the invention, with one type of light being utilized being in the "infrared spectrum". For example, the light assembly may include an infrared (IR) transceiver, where the IR transceiver may consist of an IR transmitter and an IR sensor.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the shelf management system 900 may also include a control module 940 . The control module 940 can be aligned with the electrical connections 938 on the light channel 930 and locked in place. The control module 940 may include a microcomputer. Additionally, the control module 930 may have internal wireless capabilities without departing from the invention.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the product 910 may be pushed forward by a spring pushed pusher 925 or pusher plate in the shelf management system 900 . When the product 910 is pushed forward, an optical signal 935 is transmitted from the optical transmitter 934 on the optical channel 930. The light signal 935 may then reflect off the pusher plate 925 or the back of the product 910 and return to the light sensor 936 . This information can then be forwarded to the control module 940 to measure the distance to the pusher 925 or the product 910. The optical transceiver 932 may be controlled by a control module 940 and a microcomputer connected to the optical transceiver 932 . The process of sending the optical signal 935 to and from the pusher plate 925 or the product 910 may be performed continuously or nearly continuously, such as a fraction of a second, or may be performed periodically, Such as one second, or 5 seconds.

In one aspect of the invention, the microcomputer in the control module 940 may compare the latest position of the pusher 925 with the previous position of the pusher. Differences in the position of the pusher 925 may cause the microcomputer to determine the condition of the shelf management system 900 . First, the microcomputer can determine that no activity has occurred since the last read. Second, the microcomputer can determine that a normal shopping event has occurred, and if so can determine how many product packages are still being pushed by the pusher 925. Third, the microcomputer may determine that a potential theft situation is in progress if more than a predetermined amount of product packaging has been removed in less than a predetermined amount of time. Another condition that can be communicated is a low product condition. For example, if there are no product packages at any pusher location, or less than a predetermined number of product packages are still being pushed by pusher 925, the microcomputer may determine a low product condition.

As shown in Figure 14, the shelf management system may include a local audio box 950 without departing from the invention. Any of the above may be communicated remotely by the microcomputer to the local audio box 950 via wired or wireless communication means to a remote computer, store announcement system, cell phone, pager or remote notifier. Additionally, the shelf management system may include optical notifiers 960 without departing from the invention. Any of the above may be communicated remotely by the microcomputer to the optical notifier 960 via wired or wireless means to a remote computer, store announcement system, cell phone, pager or remote notifier. The internal wireless capabilities of the control module 940 may wirelessly transmit signals to and from a remote location to indicate the condition of the shelf management system.

Additionally, with the racking system 900 shown in FIG. 14, the number of products lined up on the racks can be measured. In such an embodiment, the position of the pusher 925 can be used to determine the amount of product 910 on the shelf without manually counting the products. For example, optical transceiver 932 transmits optical signal 935 to pusher 925 or product 910 . The optical signal 935 may then be reflected back to the optical transceiver 932 to determine the position of the pusher 925 by measuring and calculating the time at which the optical signal 935 is received at the optical transceiver 932 . When a product is removed, eg, by a buyer, the time at which the returned optical signal 935 is received at the optical transceiver 932 is increased by a certain amount. Based on the size of the product 910, and in particular based on the thickness of the product, the control module can calculate how much product has been removed from the shelf through an algorithm of how fast the optical signal propagates back to the optical transceiver 932. The control module may also use, in part, information about shelf dimensions (including shelf depth) to calculate the amount of product remaining on the shelf in front of the pusher. In addition, the system can also be used in an inventory management mode to help retailers determine the quantity of products for stocking purposes and replenish them in low or no stock situations. A user may enter the thickness of the product 910 as a setting into the control module 940 during setup or loading of the product 910 on the shelf without departing from the invention. Additionally, the thickness of the product 910 may be determined by the control module 940 after taking a number of different readings from a system, such as an intelligent system or a learning system for determining the thickness of the product 910, without departing from the invention.

The thickness of the product may also be determined by the system when the product is initially stocked in the system. The optical transceiver 932 transmits the optical signal 935 to the pusher 925 when there is no product on the shelf. The optical signal 935 may then be reflected back to the optical transceiver 932 to determine the position of the pusher 925 by measuring and calculating the time at which the optical signal 935 is received at the optical transceiver 932 . When a product is added to a shelf, eg, by an employee, the time to receive the returned optical signal 935 at the optical transceiver 932 is reduced by a certain amount. Based on the reduction in this amount of time, the control module can calculate the thickness of the product.

In an alternative embodiment similar to that described above, Figures 15A and 15B illustrate another shelf management system 1000 for detecting and communicating the position of a pusher assembly on a shelf, similar to that described above and Figure 14 Shelf management system 900 is shown. The shelf management system 1000 may include a pusher assembly 1015 , a laser assembly, and a control module 1040 . The pusher assembly 1015 , the laser assembly, and the control module 1040 may all be secured to the display stand wall 1005 or similar structure that holds the product 1010 . Product 1010 may be aligned or arranged along pusher assembly 1015. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 15, the product 1010 may be contained in a separate product container box 1012.

Pusher assembly 1015 may include a biasing mechanism such as a leaf coil spring. The pusher assembly 1015 may include an integral divider wall 1022 and a floor portion 920 on one or both sides of the divider wall 1022 . A leaf coil spring can be operably connected to the pusher 1025 and can be used to push the pusher 1025 and associated product 1010 towards the front side of the shelf. The pusher assembly 1015 may be modular and may include divider walls or additional floor sections that fit or fit in it.

The laser assembly may include a rear reflector strip 1030 and a single optical transceiver or laser scanner 1032. Laser scanner 1032 may emit or transmit a laser or output beam 1035 . Laser scanner 1032 may include a moving mirror or a rotating mirror (not shown) within or associated with laser scanner 1032 . In lieu of or in addition to moving mirrors, laser scanner 1032 may include integrated circuit mirror technology such as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) used in the digital light projector (DLP) field without departing from the invention ) mirrors, where an array of tiny microscopic mirrors is used to direct and alter the output beam 1035. The moving mirror can be rotated within the laser scanner to alter the output beam 1035 emitted from the laser scanner 1032 . The transmission and angle of the output beam 1035 can also be varied in various other ways. The moving mirrors may be controlled by a microcomputer within the control module 1040 . The moving mirror can direct the output beam 1035 from the laser scanner 1032 at various angles, resulting in a swept beam 1037 . The swept beam 1037 may be directed along the rear reflector strip. An example of a portion of the swept beam 1037 is shown in Figure 15B. The process of delivering the sweep beam 1037 from the laser scanner 1032 to the pusher plate 1025 or the product 1010 and from the pusher plate 1025 or the product 1010 may occur continuously or nearly continuously, such as a fraction of a second , one second, or five seconds.

As further shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B , the rear reflector strip 1030 may include a piecewise linear mirror or a smooth fixed mirror 1034 . A stationary mirror 1034 may be positioned along the rear reflector strip 1030. The fixed mirrors 1034 may be along, parallel, or nearly parallel to the path of the swept beam 1037, such that each individual fixed mirror 1034 intercepts the output beam 1035 along its swept path (as shown in Figure 15B). The stationary mirror 1034 may also be positioned along the rear reflector strip 1034 and positioned behind the pusher 1025 in the shelf management system 1000 and substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel of the pusher 1025. Additionally, the rear reflector strip 1030 may include electrical connections 1038 .

As shown in FIG. 15A , the shelf management system 1000 may also include a control module 1040 . The control module 1040 can be aligned with the electrical connections 1038 on the rear reflector strap 1030 and locked in place. The control module 1040 may include a microcomputer. Additionally, the control module 1040 may have internal wireless capabilities without departing from the invention.

As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B , the product 1010 may be pushed forward by a spring pushed pusher 1025 or pusher plate in the shelf management system 1000 . As the product 1010 is pushed forward, the laser scanner 1032 directs the sweep beam 1037 along the rear reflector belt 1030 at one of the stationary mirrors 1034 . The fixed mirror 1034 can then redirect the output beam 1035 to the altered path of the output beam 1035 at a preferred angle, such as a right angle, such that the fixed mirror 1034 substantially directs the output beam 1035 to the rear of the pusher 1025. The output beam 1035 may then reflect off the back of the pusher 1025, where the output beam 1035 then returns to the laser scanner 1032 for analysis. This information can then be forwarded to the control module 1040 . Laser scanner 1032 may be configured to measure the distance to pusher 1025 . The laser scanner 1032 may be controlled by the control module 1040 and the microcomputer.

The microcomputer in the control module 1040 can compare the latest position of the pusher 1025 with the previous position. Differences in the position of the pusher 1025 can cause the microcomputer to determine the condition of the shelf management system 1000 . First, the microcomputer can determine that no activity has occurred since the last read. Second, the microcomputer can determine that a normal shopping event has occurred and, if so, how many product packages are still being pushed by the pusher 1025. Third, the microcomputer may determine that a potential theft situation is in progress if more than a predetermined amount of product packaging has been removed in less than a predetermined amount of time. Another condition that can be communicated is a low product condition. For example, if there are no product packages at any pusher location, or less than a predetermined number of product packages are still being pushed by pusher 1025, the microcomputer may determine a low product condition.

As shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the shelf management system 1000 may include a local audio notifier 1050 without departing from the invention. Any of the above can be communicated by the microcomputer via wired or wireless means to various communication modules, such as: local or remote audio notifier 1050, local or remote optical notifier 1060, remote computer, store announcement system, cell phone, pager or other Remote Notifier. The internal wireless capabilities of the control module 1040 may wirelessly transmit signals to and from a remote location to indicate the condition of the shelf management system.

In another embodiment similar to that described above, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B , the shelf management system 1100 may include one fixed mirror 1134 positioned along the length of the rear reflector strip 1130. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B , the shape of the fixed mirror 1134 may be curved, and may approximate a parabolic shape. Since the laser scanner 1132, the moving mirrors, and ultimately the sweeping beam 1137 are controlled by the microcomputer or control module 1140, the microcomputer is able to use the moving mirrors at any point in time during the sweeping motion and analyzing the output beam 1135 by knowing and using the moving mirrors. to determine the position of each pusher 1125 on the shelf. Additionally, the process of delivering the swept beam 1137 from the laser scanner 1132 to and from the pusher plate 1125 may be continuous or nearly continuous (such as a fraction of a second) or periodically (such as one second, or every 5 seconds).

Additionally, the microcomputer may execute an algorithm that determines that multiple readings represent only one wide pusher 1125. This may be the case if readings are taken every 1 inch along the length of, for example, a 48 inch long shelf. The product location 1110 in front of the pusher 1125 on the shelf may be six inches wide. Thus, in this example, as the mirror sweeps and directs the sweep beam 1137, five or six readings may be taken across the back of the pusher 1125 and the product. If one of the six inch wide products is removed from the pusher 1125, the microcomputer detects that at least five or six sensed positions have changed substantially simultaneously by an equal amount. The microcomputer can then determine that all five or six readings represent one product width. This can be a learning aspect of the shelf management system 1100 that changes over time as different products are sold on the shelf.

In another embodiment similar to that described above, as shown in Figures 17A and 17B, a parabolic type piecewise linear mirror 1234 with a piecewise linear approximation of a parabola may be utilized. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B , shelf management system 1200 may include segmented parabolic mirrors 1234 that may be positioned along rear reflector strip 1230 . The segmented parabolic mirror 1234 may include a plurality of linear sections 1233 having a plurality of leading edges 1236 . The linear portion 1233 may be wide enough for ease of manufacture. Furthermore, the linear portion 1233 may be sufficiently narrow that a shelf filled with the narrowest pusher 1225 will have at least one linear mirror portion 1233 to/from which the output beam 1235 is reflected. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B , the leading edge 1236 of each linear mirror portion 1233 may include a small flat portion 1239 and an angled leading edge 1236 . Small flat portion 1239 can retroreflect sweep beam 1237 directly back to laser scanner 1232 without first allowing it to reflect off the back of pusher 1225. The process of delivering the swept beam 1137 from the laser scanner 1132 to and from the pusher plate 1125 may be continuous or nearly continuous (such as a fraction of a second) or periodically (such as one second, or 5 seconds).

For example, as specifically shown in FIG. 17B , as the beam 1237 sweeps, the laser scanner 1232 will see a series of short bright bursts directed back to the laser scanner 1232 and then reflected off the angled leading edge 1236. The reflection from the angled leading edge 1236 indicates the position of the pusher 1225. When the mirror is moved to sweep the beam past the edge of the first straight portion, the mirror will again encounter the small flat portion 1239 before the second angled leading edge 1236. These small flats 1239 may represent cue points on the segmented parabolic mirror 1234 . These cue points 1239 may be interpreted by the microcomputer as "cue" signals 1242. Additionally, these small flat portions 1239 may divide the shelf into designated sections that may be analyzed by the microcomputer for movement. Based on the distance and location of the small flat portion 1239, the laser scanner 1232 can warn the control module 1240 that the angled leading edge 1236 is about to be encountered and a reading should be taken. In this way, the control module 1240 need not have a precise level measurement of the position of the moving mirror. Additionally, the length of the segmented parabolic mirror 1234 may be any length. The control module 1240 may determine the number of pusher positions to read based on the number of cue signals 1244 it receives between the "origin" and "end" positions of the swept beam 1237 .

Additionally, for the racking system shown in Figures 15A-17B, the number of products lined up on the rack can be measured. In such an embodiment, the position of the pusher can be used to determine the amount of product on the shelf without the need to manually count the products. For example, a laser scanner sends an output beam to a pusher or product. The output beam can then be reflected back to the laser scanner to determine the position of the pusher by measuring and calculating the time at which the output beam is received at the laser scanner. When a product is removed, eg, by a buyer, the time at which the returned output beam is received at the laser scanner is increased by a set amount. Based on the size of the product, and in particular on the thickness of the product, the control module can calculate how much product has been removed from the shelf through an algorithm of how fast the output beam propagates back to the laser scanner. The thickness of the product may be a setting or input that may be entered into the control module during setup of the product on the shelf without departing from the invention. Additionally, the thickness of the product may be determined by the control module after taking a number of different readings from a system, such as an intelligent or learning system for determining the thickness of the product, without departing from the invention.

The advantages of the present invention shown in Figures 14-17B are apparent in several respects. First, the present invention has no connection to a spring-pushed pusher system, so it can work with almost any system currently in use. Second, the present invention has no physical moving connection to the pusher system or product, which prevents the system from wearing out or getting dirty over time or with the number of products sold, and reducing its effectiveness. Third, the present invention can be operated for extended periods of time using a battery. RFID inventory systems require relatively high-power radio frequency transmitters to scan products on shelves and cannot be operated by using batteries. Fourth, the cost of the system can be amortized over many years by the number of products sold off the shelf. The cost of this system is as opposed to having to justify the cost of a single RFID tag on each product package and amortizing the expensive reader system and infrastructure in the price of each product. Finally, the present invention can be programmed to ignore changing the product back to the shelf, such as when the shelf is being replenished.

The sensors of the various sensing configurations discussed in the above embodiments may output signals representing sensed parameters in analog or digital format. The analog output can be in the form of a voltage or current signal. As those skilled in the art will recognize, analog to digital converters may be utilized to convert analog signals to digital signals for use by a controller or processing device.

Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the invention disclosed and defined herein extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or apparent from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein illustrate the best mode known for practicing the invention, and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

18A-18C depict an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system 1800. In particular, the display management system 1800 includes a front rail 1802 that is configured to be removably coupled to a display surface (not shown). In one example, the display surface may include a shelf structure or the like. As such, in one example, the front rail 1802 may be configured to be removably coupled at the front edge of a display surface (not shown). However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the front rails 1802 may be removably coupled to the display surface or the like at locations other than the edges of the display surface. In one embodiment, the front rail 1802 has a front rail length 1808. In one example, the front rail 1802 may be configured such that the front rail length 1808 is parallel to the front edge of the display surface (not shown). Accordingly, the front track length 1808 may be implemented in any size without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. As such, the front rail length 1808 can be configured to fit one or more physical dimensions of a given display surface (not shown). In one example, display management system 1800 may include pusher 1804 . In one embodiment, the pusher 1804 may generally be referred to as a movable mechanism of an exhibit management system, such as the exhibit management system 1800 . As such, and as shown in Figure 18B, the pusher 1804 may be configured to push one or more display products (not shown) along the floor structure 1810 from the second end 1814 of the floor structure to the first end 1812 of the floor structure . Additionally or alternatively, display management system 1800 may include one or more dividers 1806 . In this way, divider 1806, and in particular divider wall 1803, can be configured to separate a first set of display products (not shown) associated with first pusher 1804 on a display surface (not shown) with a second pusher A second set of display products associated with the device is separated. In one example, divider 1806 including divider wall 1803 , floor structure 1810 , and/or barrier 1818 may have divider length 1816 . As such, in one embodiment, divider 1806 may be configured to be removably coupled to front rail 1802 such that front rail length 1808 is substantially perpendicular to divider length 1816 . However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that display management system 1800 can be implemented such that front rail length 1808 can be configured to be positioned at any angle relative to divider length 1816, and such that front rail length 1808 and divider length 1816 The angle between may be substantially other than 90° without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

In one embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 18B and 18C , the pusher 1804 may be urged toward the first end of the floor structure 1812 by a coil spring 1820 . In this way, barrier 1818 may be configured to push one or more display items (in Figures 18A-18C ) when pusher 1804 urged by coil spring 1820 exerts a force on the display item or items to slide it toward barrier 1818 not shown) is maintained within the display management system 1800. Additionally, in one embodiment, pusher 1804 may be configured to slide along floor structure 1810 without being guided by one or more rail structures. In particular, one or more elements of display management system 1800, and specifically including front rails 1802, pushers 1804, dividers 1806, divider walls 1803, floor structures 1810, coil springs 1820, and barriers 1818 may be provided as of July 2014. Front rails 580, 580, 580, The pusher 520, divider 550, divider wall 552, floor 554, coil spring 534 and barrier 556 function similarly.

In one embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 18B and 18C , the display management system 1800 may include a capacitive sensor 1822 . As such, capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to output a signal that may be processed to determine the location of one or more elements of display management system 1800. In one example, capacitive sensor 1822 can be configured to output a signal that can be processed to determine the position of pusher 1804 . As such, capacitive sensor 1822 may be used to determine the number of displayed products maintained within display management system 1800. In the following description, one or more aspects of capacitive sensor 1822 are discussed. As such, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that capacitive sensors 1822 may be utilized to determine the position of the pushers 1804 within the display management system 1800 independently of the specific geometrical features of the display management system 1800 . As such, the systems and methods described herein in relation to capacitive sensors 1822 may be practiced by the alternative display management systems described throughout this document and US Patent Application No. 14/444,357, which has been incorporated herein by reference.

In one embodiment, the capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to be positioned on the floor structure 1810 along the divider length 1816 and such that the deployed length 1823 of the coil spring 1820 is the same as the capacitive sensor 1822 extending along the divider length 1816 part of the contact. Accordingly, capacitive sensor 1822 is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 20 .

19A and 19B schematically depict a plan view of an exhibit management system 1800. Thus, FIG. 19A schematically depicts display management system 1800 in a first configuration with a first plurality of display products 1902a-1902f sandwiched between barrier 1818 and pusher 1804. As such, in the depicted first configuration of display management system 1800 , coil spring 1820 has a first deployed length 1904 . Turning to FIG. 19B , the display management system 1800 is depicted in a second configuration with a reduced number of display products 1902a - 1902c contained within the system 1800 . Accordingly, the coil spring 1820 has a reduced or second deployed length 1906 .

In one example, a conductive material (a metal or alloy in one example) configured as coil spring 1820 is in contact with capacitive sensor 1822 . In one embodiment, the degree to which the coil spring 1820 contacts the capacitive sensor 1822 is proportional to the undeployed length (such as the undeployed length 1904 or 1906 in one example). In turn, the output signal from capacitive sensor 1822 may vary based on the length of coil spring 1820 in contact with capacitive sensor 1822 . Accordingly, the output signal from capacitive sensor 1822 may vary based on the position of pusher 1804 and, accordingly, the number of displayed products (1902a-1902f) held within display management system 1800.

20A schematically depicts a detailed view of capacitive sensor 1822. In one embodiment, the capacitive sensor 1822 includes a circuit board 2002 having a longitudinal length 2016 . As schematically depicted in FIGS. 18A-18C , capacitive sensor 1822 may be coupled to floor structure 1812 of divider 1806 such that longitudinal length 2016 of capacitive sensor 1822 is substantially parallel to divider length 1816. In one embodiment, capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to be retrofitted into display management system 1800 such that all electronic components associated with capacitive sensor 1822 may be independently contained on circuit board 2002. In one example, capacitive sensor 1822 may include a plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f. As such, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f depicted in FIG. 20A represent only one example implementation of the capacitive sensor 1822 and that various alternative implementations of the capacitive sensor 1822 may be implemented, It has a different number of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f than those depicted in Figure 20A.

In one example, capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to output a signal proportional to a capacitance value and make the capacitance value based on the deployed length of coil spring 1820 (eg, deployed lengths 1904 and 1906). In one example, control circuit 2006 includes electronic components configured to calculate one or more capacitance values associated with capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f. In another embodiment, the control circuit 2006 may be referred to as a transmitter circuit and is configured to transmit one or more data points received from the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f to a remote processor, such as from FIG. 24 The display management system controller device 2400. In another example, one or more of the calculated capacitance values may vary based on the length of conductors in contact with the circuit board 2002 . As such, the one or more calculated capacitance values may vary based on the deployed lengths of the coil springs 1820, such as those deployed lengths 1904 and 1906 depicted by way of example in Figures 19A and 19B. In one specific example, the control circuit 2006 may be configured to calculate a capacitance value between one or more consecutive pairs of capacitive sensor elements selected from the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f. Thus, if one or more of a pair of capacitive sensor elements selected from capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f is in contact with a portion of the deployed length of coil spring 1820, the calculated distance between the pair of capacitive sensor elements The capacitance value can be changed. As such, the change in capacitance between successive pairs of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f can be used to indicate the position of the pusher 1804. As such, one or more of capacitive sensor elements 2004a - 2004f may include exposed conductive structures configured to contact a portion of the conductive deployed length of coil spring 1820 .

In one embodiment, the circuit board 2002 may include a substantially insulating material configured to electrically insulate the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f from each other. Additionally, capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f may be connected to control circuit 2006 by electrical conductors (not depicted in Figure 20A). In one example, a pair of capacitive sensor elements selected from capacitive sensor elements 2004a - 2004f may be separated by separation distance 2018 . Thus, in one embodiment, the separation distance 2018 may be uniform between each pair of capacitive sensor elements selected from the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f, or may be non-uniform, such that the first separation distance 2018 may be Different from the second separation distance 2020. Furthermore, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that separation distances 2018 and 2020 may be implemented in any size without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. For example, separation distances 2018 and 2020 may range from one millimeter or less to several hundred millimeters or more, and the like.

In one example, the separation distance between a pair of capacitive sensor elements selected from capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f, such as separation distances 2018 and/or 2020, may determine the resolution of capacitive sensor 1822. As such, the resolution of capacitive sensor 1822 can be proportional to the accuracy with which capacitive sensor 1822 can determine the position of a pusher, such as pusher 1804. In particular, as the number of capacitive sensor elements such as capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f increases, the accuracy with which capacitive sensor 1822 can determine the position of a pusher on floor structure 1810 can also increase.

In one embodiment, capacitive sensors 1822 may be used to calculate the absolute position of pushers 1804 on floor structure 1810. In this way, the position of the pusher 1804 may not be calibrated based on the zeroing position on the floor structure 1810. Thus, the position of the pusher 1804 may not be determined relative to another position on the capacitive sensor 1822 or the like.

In yet another embodiment, the control circuit 2006 may be utilized to calculate the position of the pusher 1804 on the capacitive sensor 1822 using an interpolation method. Specifically, control circuitry 2006 may receive signals (otherwise referred to as sensor data) from a plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f and, by processing the received signals, determine that the position of pusher 1804 is within a selected Between a pair of capacitive sensor elements of self-capacitance sensor elements 2004a-2004f. In particular, the control circuit 2006 may be used to interpolate the proximity of the pusher 1804 to a first capacitive sensor element to a second, adjacent capacitive sensor element. In this manner, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that, in one example, capacitive sensor 1822 may use a single pair of capacitive sensor elements spaced between first end 1812 and second end 1814 of floor structure 1810 . 2004 to achieve.

FIG. 20B schematically depicts a more detailed view of the control circuit 2006 . Specifically, in one example, control circuit 2006 includes power supply 2008 , memory 2010 , interface 2012 , and processor 2014 . In one embodiment, memory 2010, interface 2012, and processor 2014 may be implemented as a single microcontroller circuit, or may be implemented as discrete electronic components. In one example, power source 2008 may represent a source of electrical energy provided by one or more electrochemical cells (otherwise simply referred to as cells or batteries). In one specific example, the power source 2008 may be implemented as a single "button cell" or "coin cell" with a multi-year battery life. In another example, the power source 2008 may be a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. In another example, the power supply 2008 may represent electronic hardware configured to receive and possibly condition (correct AC to DC, and/or step up/down voltage, smooth, etc.) a wired power supply. In yet another example, the power source 2008 may represent electronic hardware configured to wirelessly receive and possibly regulate a power supply received from an external source, such as through electromagnetic induction (electrodynamic induction, electrostatic induction, etc.). In another embodiment, the power source 2008 may include one or more photovoltaics (solar cells). Furthermore, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the power supply 2008 may represent any technique or combination of techniques configured to provide electrical power to the control circuit 2006 without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. Similarly, power supply 2008 may be configured to store any amount of energy (J), and/or provide any value of electrical potential (voltage (V)) or current (A) without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. Additionally, these power supply examples can be used in conjunction with any of the devices discussed herein.

Memory 2010 may be in permanent form, volatile memory form, or a combination thereof. As such, memory 2010 may include the form of random access memory (RAM) that is cleared by power cycling or other restarting operations of control circuit 2006 . In other embodiments, memory 2010 may be non-volatile such that it does not require power from power source 2008 to maintain information. As such, memory 2010 may include the form of read only memory (ROM) or flash memory. Generally, memory 2010 may be referred to as a form of non-transitory computer-readable medium and used to store instructions executable by processor 2014.

Interface 2012 may include hardware and/or firmware configured to facilitate communication between control circuitry 2006 and one or more external devices. For example, interface 2012 may be utilized to facilitate communication between processor 2014 and external computer devices over a network. In this manner, interface 2012 may be configured via a wired connection, such as with an Ethernet connection, or a wireless connection, such as with a Bluetooth connection, a Wi-Fi connection, or one of the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) radio frequency bands or multiple communications. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that interface 2012 may be configured to facilitate communication between control circuitry 2006 and any wired or wireless link or network.

In one embodiment, the processor 2014 includes a microprocessor having one or more processing cores. As such, the processor 2014 may be configured to execute instructions stored within the memory 2010 . In addition, one or more circuits associated with the circuit board 2002 and the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f may be driven using one or more processes performed by the processor 2014. Additionally, the processor 2014 may be configured to receive and process one or more sensor readings from the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f via the interface 2012. In one specific example, capacitive sensor elements from the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f may be configured to output analog signals (voltage, current, etc.) or digital signals (eg, binary signals, etc.).

In one example, the processor 2014 may receive one or more signals communicated from the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f. In turn, the processor 2014 may perform execution on the received signal prior to communicating the received signal via the interface 2012 to a remote processor, such as the processor 2404 associated with the display management system controller device 2400 described in FIG. 24 . one or more treatments. The one or more processes may include determining that the received signal is above a threshold, compressing the received signal for communication, or filtering the received signal, and the like. Thus, in this example, the processor 2404 of the display management system controller device 2400 may calculate one or more capacitance values as previously described with respect to FIG. 20A and also calculate the position of the pusher 1804 on the display management system 1800 . In another example, one or more signals communicated from the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f may be processed by the processor 2014 to calculate one or more capacitance values as previously described with respect to FIG. 20A. In turn, the calculated capacitance value can be used to calculate the position of the pusher 1804 on the display management system 1800. In yet another example, a combination of processor 2014 and processor 2404 may be used to determine the position of pusher 1804, or the like.

In one embodiment, the control circuit 2006 may be configured to communicate directly with the mobile device. As such, in one particular example, the control circuit 2006 may be configured to establish a Bluetooth connection with a shopper's smartphone or tablet in the store in order to receive one or more pieces of biographical information associated with the shopper. In this manner, when the pusher 1804 is activated with the removal of one or more display products, such as display products 1902a-1902f, from the display management system 1800, the control circuit 2006 may be configured to query the removal of one or more display products. A mobile device of a user of the product to receive one or more pieces of biographical information associated with the user. In another embodiment, the control circuit 2006 may be configured to communicate with the display management system controller device 2400 when the pusher 1804 is activated in response to removal of one or more display products from the display management system. In turn, the display management system controller device 2400 may attempt to establish a connection (via Bluetooth, etc.) to the mobile device associated with the user who removed one or more display products.

In one example, capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to operate in a low power mode until pusher 1804 is moved due to removal of one or more display products, such as display products 1902a-1902f, from display management system 1800. In particular, the low power mode may include processor 2014 operating in a low power configuration that continuously monitors sensor outputs from capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f. Accordingly, in this example, the processor 2014 may perform one or more processes upon receipt of one or more sensor signals indicative of movement of the pusher 1804 to enter a high power configuration. In particular, high power configurations may include performing one or more processes to deliver additional electrical power to memory 2010, interface 2012, and/or processor 2014 in order to perform additional processing on received sensor data and/or to The received sensor data is communicated to the remote processor. In this manner, capacitive sensor 1822 may be configured to consume a reduced amount of electrical power while pusher 1804 remains stationary. In this way, the battery life associated with the power supply 2008 can be extended with this low power configuration. In another example, the capacitive sensor 1822 can be configured to operate in a low power configuration while the pusher 1804 remains stationary, and cause the low power configuration to apply to one or more of the plurality of capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f transmit electricity. Thus, in response to movement of the pusher 1804, one or more of the capacitive sensor elements 2004a-2004f may be configured to communicate a wake-up signal to the control circuit 2006 to enter a high power configuration. As such, a wake-up signal may be received by the control circuit 2006, and in response, additional power may be delivered to one or more of the memory 2010, the interface 2012, and/or the processor 2014. In this way, maintaining the capacitive sensor 1822, particularly the control circuit 2006, in a low power configuration for the time period during which the pusher is stationary may allow for a reduction in overall energy consumption, and in one example, increasing the capacitive sensor 1822 battery life.

21A and 21B depict an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system 2100. Specifically, FIG. 21A depicts an isometric view of a display management system 2100 configured as a box rack. In particular, case rack display management system 2100 includes a top 2102 and two sides 2104 that may be joined together to form part of a housing 2106 . The recessed portion 2108 is provided such that in the event that the case rack display management system 2100 is installed under a rack (not shown), the recessed portion 2108 will help ensure that it does not interfere with a shelf supporting the rack or other structure that may extend downwardly (not shown) interference. One or more shelf supports 2110 are mounted to the rack display management system 2100 so that the rack display management system 2100 is mounted to a vertical support (not shown) in a conventional manner.

The slidable shelves 2112 are mounted to one or more rails 2114, which may be at least partially supported by the sides 2104. As depicted, slidable shelves 2112 may include support surfaces 2116 that support dividers 2118 . In one example, support surface 2116 may support one or more display management systems, such as system 1800 previously described. In one embodiment, the support surface 2116 includes a track 2120 mounted to the front of the shelf 2112. The rails in turn support retainers 2122. As depicted, door 2124 with one or more handles 2126 may be mounted to top 2102 via hinge system 2128. In another embodiment, the door 2124 may be referred to as a flip window 2124, and the flip window 2124 may be made partially or fully transparent to visible light. In this manner, the flip window 2124 may facilitate viewing of one or more displayed products within the case rack display management system 2100. In one specific example, the box rack display management system 2100 may be similar to the box rack 3405 described in US Application No. 14/046385, filed October 4, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, for all non-limiting purposes.

In one embodiment, the case rack display management system 2100 may be configured to hold one or more display products, such as the display products 1902a-1902f schematically depicted in Figure 19A. Thus, in one configuration, the case rack display management system 2100 positions the slidable racks 2112 within the housing 2106 . As such, in order to remove one or more display products (not shown in FIG. 21A ) from the case rack display management system 2100, the user may rotate the flip window 2124 from the substantially vertical position (depicted in FIG. 21B ) (to approximately horizontal position depicted in Figure 21A).

In one embodiment, the case rack display management system 2100 may be configured with sensors 2130. In particular, sensor 2130 may be an accelerometer. Additionally, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be sensitive to acceleration along a single axis (due to gravity or otherwise) (single-axis accelerometer), to acceleration along two mutually perpendicular axes (2-axis accelerometer), or to Sensitive to acceleration in three mutually perpendicular axes (3-axis accelerometer). One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that single-axis, dual-axis and Various embodiments of the electronic circuit of the triaxial accelerometer. Furthermore, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be utilized to determine the orientation of the structure to which it is affixed. As such, the accelerometer sensor 2130 from FIG. 21A can be used to determine the orientation of the rollover window 2124. Advantageously, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may provide improved accuracy in determining the orientation of the flip window 2124 as compared to one or more alternative sensor technologies positioned as the hinge 2128, where the range of motion of the hinge 2128 may be relatively more limited.

In one embodiment, an accelerometer sensor, such as accelerometer sensor 2130 , may be used to determine the orientation of rollover window 2124 . As such, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be located on any rollover window 2124 that is configured to move with movement of the rollover window 2124 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure described herein. location. Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that accelerometer sensor 2130 may be commonly used to determine the orientation of a flip window (similar to flip window 2124) as part of any display management system. As such, exhibit management system 2100 with inverted window 2124 is only one example of an exhibit management system that may be used with accelerometer sensor 2130. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize various additional or alternative implementations of a display management structure similar to housing 2106 having movable features similar to flip windows 2124 that are configured to move to remove from the display. The management structure removes one or more products. Further, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be coupled to movable features of various additional or alternative implementations of the display management structure that one of ordinary skill in the art may contemplate.

In one example, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be implemented as part of an integrated accelerometer device, as schematically depicted in Figure 22A. As such, integrated accelerometer device 2130 may include accelerometer circuit board 2200 , power supply 2202 and interface 2203 . Accordingly, as previously described, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize various specific accelerometer circuits that may be implemented as accelerometer circuit board 2200 without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. In one example, power supply 2202 may be configured to provide power to accelerometer circuit board 2200 and interface 2203 . As such, power supply 2202 may be similar to power supply 2008, and may be implemented as a wired power supply, one or more batteries, hardware configured to accommodate wireless transfer of power, or a combination thereof. In another example, interface 2203 may be similar to interface 2012, and such that interface 2203 may be configured to communicate one or more acceleration signals from accelerometer sensor 2130 via a wired or wireless network.

In one embodiment, the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may be configured to output one or more sensor signals (otherwise referred to as motion data) indicative of the orientation of the flip window 2124 . In one example, the one or more sensor signals may include analog or digital signals indicative of acceleration along one or more of the axes to which the integrated accelerometer device 2130 is sensitive. Thus, in one example, the sensor signal output from the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may be caused by gravity decomposed along one, two or three mutually perpendicular axes (x-, y- and/or z-axes) As a result of the acceleration, the integrated accelerometer device 2330 is sensitive to one, two or three mutually perpendicular axes. In one example, integrated accelerometer device 2130 is configured to communicate sensor signals (otherwise referred to as motion data) via interface 2203 to a control circuit such as control circuit 2006 depicted in Figure 22B. As such, in one embodiment, the communication between the control circuit 2006 and the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may be via a hardware (wired) connection. However, communication between the control circuit 2006 and the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may additionally or alternatively be via a wireless connection. As such, the output signal from the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may be processed and used in a similar manner to the sensor output from the capacitive sensor 1822 described previously. In another embodiment, the sensor output from the integrated accelerometer device 2130 may be communicated directly to the display management system controller device 2400 , which is described in further detail with respect to FIG. 24 .

In one example, the accelerometer sensor (otherwise referred to as an integrated accelerometer device) 2130 may be configured to operate in a low power configuration while the movable structure to which the accelerometer sensor 2130 is coupled remains stationary. In this way, the accelerometer sensor 2130 can be configured to operate in this low power configuration while the output from the accelerometer circuit board 2200 is unchanged (in one example, indicating that the flip window 2124 remains in a fixed orientation). Accordingly, upon detection of movement of the flip window 2124, one or more of the accelerometer circuit board 2200, the control circuit 2006, and/or the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to implement a high power configuration. As such, the high power configuration can be configured to perform one or more processes in response to movement of the rollover window 2124, wherein movement of the rollover window 2124 can indicate that one or more display products (such as display products 1902a-1902f) are The display management system of systems 2100, 1800 and/or 2300 is removed.

FIG. 23 depicts an alternate embodiment of an exhibit management system 2300. Specifically, FIG. 23 depicts a screw hook security device 2301 . As such, the screw hook security device 2301 may include a front structure 2314 rigidly coupled to the rear structure 2306 by support rails 2308. Additionally, the rear structure 2306 may include one or more coupling elements (not shown) configured to removably couple the screw hook security device 2301 to the surface 2312. In one example, surface 2312 may be similar to display stand wall 905 described with respect to FIG. 14 . However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that surface 2312 may include any support structure configured to receive one or more coupling elements (not shown) of screw hook security device 2301 . In one embodiment, the screw hitch security device 2301 includes a knob 2304 rotatably coupled to the front structure 2314 and configured to rotate about the central axis of the bearing 2316 . Additionally, the front structure 2340 may be configured to receive one or more labels associated with one or more display products supported by the screw hook security device 2301 .

In one example, the helical track 2302 may be configured to rotate about the central axis of the bearing 2316 upon application of a manual rotational force to the knob 2304 in a first direction (eg, the direction indicated by arrow 2318). In turn, based on the rotation of the helical rail 2302, one or more display products supported by (suspended from) the support rail 2310 may be pushed by the helical rail 2302 toward the front structure 2314. Conversely, upon application of a manual rotational force to knob 2304 in a second direction (eg, opposite to arrow 2318), helical track 2302 may be configured to orient one or more displays suspended from support track 2310 toward the rear structure 2306 push.

In one example, the screw hook security device 2301 may be configured to display one or more products within a store. As such, in one embodiment, the screw hook security device 2301 may be used to prevent rapid removal of a plurality of products supported by the support rail 2310 from the screw hook security device 2301 . In this manner, due to the extended time required to rotate knob 2304 and helical track 2302 in order to remove one or more products from device 2301, screw hook security device 2301 can be utilized to deter theft of one or more items suspended from support track 2310. multiple products.

In one embodiment, accelerometer sensor 2130 may be used with display management system 2300 to detect movement of knob 2304 and/or spiral track 2302. As previously discussed, the helical track 2302 may be rotated to insert and/or remove one or more display products from the display management system 2300 . In this manner, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be coupled to a structure configured to rotate when manual force is applied to the handle 2304. In one specific example, the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be coupled within the structure of the knob 2304 as schematically depicted in FIG. 23 . However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that additional or alternative placement options for the accelerometer sensor 2130 may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. In one example, changes in the sensor output from the accelerometer sensor 2130 when the helical track 2302 is being rotated may be caused by one or more of the accelerometer circuit board 2200 , the control circuit 2006 , and/or the display management system controller device 2400 . is used to track the rotation of the spiral track 2302 and thus determine the number of display products inserted into/removed from the display management system 2300.

Similar to display management system 2100, display management system 2300 may utilize accelerometer sensors 2130 to detect motion and, in response, perform one or more processes. In one example, the motion of the helical track 2302 may perform one or more processes to convert the accelerometer sensor 2130 from a low power configuration to a high power configuration as previously described.

Figure 24 schematically depicts a sensor network 2401 configured to implement one or more inventory management, security and/or identification in conjunction with one or more display management systems (such as systems 1800, 2100 and 2300, etc.) Function. Specifically, the sensor network 2401 includes the display management system controller device 2400 . Accordingly, display management system controller device 2400 may include memory 2402 . As such, memory 2402 may be in the form of permanent or volatile memory, or a combination thereof. In this manner, memory 2402 may include the form of random access memory (RAM) that is cleared by power cycling or other restart operations of device 2400. In other embodiments, the memory 2402 may be non-volatile such that it does not require power to maintain information. As such, memory 2402 may include the form of read only memory (ROM) or flash memory, among others. Generally, memory 2402 may be referred to as a form of non-transitory computer-readable medium and used to store instructions that may be executed by processor 2404. Additionally, the device 2400 may include an interface 2406 configured with hardware and supporting firmware that allows the device 2400 to connect to the network 2408. Additionally, apparatus 2400 may include a processor 2404, which may include a microprocessor having one or more processing cores. As such, processor 2404 may be configured to execute instructions stored within memory 2402.

In general, display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to respond to receiving sensors from one or more of capacitive sensor 1822 (via control circuit 2006 ), or from accelerometer sensor 2130 (either directly or via control circuit 2006 ) information to perform one or more processes. In one example, communication between one or more of the control circuitry 2006, the accelerometer sensor 2130, and the display management system controller device 2400 may be unidirectional, or may be bidirectional. In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may be referred to as a remote processor and may be located remotely from one or more display management systems (1800, 2100 and/or 2300), one or more sensors ( 1822, 2130) are attached to the one or more display association systems for detecting motion indicating that one or more display products are being removed. As such, the distance between the display management system controller device 2400 and one or more sensors with which it can communicate can be any given distance without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein. For example, the display management system controller device 2400 may be located within the same geographic location (in one example, the same store) with one or more sensor devices with which the display management system controller device 2400 is located communication. In another example, display management system controller device 2400 may be located at a different geographic location than one or more display management systems (eg, 1800, 2100, and/or 2300) with which device 2400 communicates via network 2408 with the one or more display management systems (eg, 1800, 2100 and/or 2300). Communication with multiple display management systems.

In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to calculate the position of the pusher 1804 , the flip window 2124 and/or the spiral track 2302 . Accordingly, the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to calculate the data from the one or more display management systems (eg, 1800 based on the detected movement of the one or more pushers 1804 , the flip windows 2124 , and/or the helical rails 2302 ). , 2100 and/or 2300) the number of displayed products removed.

In one specific example, the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to determine the amount of display product removed from the display management system 1800 based on a comparison of the first position of the pusher 1804 with the second position of the pusher 1804 quantity. In particular, processor 2404 may calculate the distance moved by pusher 1804 and perform one or more processes to consult a look-up table of depth dimensions associated with a plurality of products held within display manager system 1800 (eg, stored in in memory 2402). As such, the processor 2404 may be based on information entered by the user or sensed by the one or more sensors 2410 (eg, by scanning barcodes on one or more products or detecting and communicating with one or more RFID signals associated with each product, etc.) to determine the type of product maintained within the display management system 1800. In this manner, upon receipt of the depth dimension of a product held within display management system 1800 from a look-up table within memory 2402 and the distance moved by pusher 1804 has been calculated, processor 2404 may determine that from display management system 1800 The number of products removed. Similarly, processor 2404 may be used to determine the quantity of products inserted into display management system 1800 (eg, during a replenishment process, etc.).

In another example, the display management system controller device 2400 may infer the depth dimensions of product types stored within the display management system 1800 . Specifically, the processor 2404 may determine the depth dimension of the product based on one or more discrete movements of the pusher 1804 in the absence of information available in the look-up table stored in the memory 2402. Specifically, after removing duplicate instances of the product from the display management system 1800, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to identify a consistent distance moved by the pusher 1804, and infer from this identified distance that the The depth dimension of the product to be used when determining the quantity of product removed from the process management system 1800 based on future movement of the processor 1804.

Accordingly, display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to perform one or more processes based on information received from one or more control circuits, such as control circuit 2006, or an accelerometer sensor, such as accelerometer sensor 2130. Additionally, display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to communicate with device 2410. In one example, device 2410 may include a camera, a speaker, a microphone, a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, an ambient light sensor, or an electronic display, among others. In one specific example, display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to display on electronic display device 2410 a message associated with one or more products stored within the display management system (eg, system 1800, 2100, or 2300) .

Display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to communicate with one or more mobile devices, such as mobile device 2412 . As such, communication between display management system controller device 2400 and one or more of control circuitry 2006 , accelerometer sensor 2130 , device 2410 , and/or mobile device 2412 may be via network 2408 . Further, network 2408 may be a wired or wireless network that may utilize any communication protocol. As such, the network 2408 may be the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), or a Bluetooth connection, among others. In one specific example, the network 2408 may utilize one or more of the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) radio frequency bands.

In one embodiment, the exhibit management system controller device 2400 may perform one or more processes to receive and store one or more pieces of biographical information associated with the user, such as the user from one or more exhibit management devices in communication with the device 2400. The system (eg, 1800, 2100, and/or 2300) removes one or more display products. In one example, the exhibit management system controller device 2400 may receive one or more pieces of biographical information associated with the user and received from the mobile device 2412 carried by the user. Specifically, the mobile device 2412 may comprise a smartphone or tablet carried by a user and configured to communicate with the display management system controller device 2400 via one or more of a Bluetooth connection, an NFC connection, or a Wi-Fi connection, among others.

In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may respond to data from one or more sensors (eg, one or more sensors) associated with one or more display management systems (eg, 1800, 2100, and/or 2300). Motion data received by the other sensors 1822 and/or 2130 ) to perform one or more processes to receive data from the additional sensors 2410 . In one specific example, the display management system controller device 2400 can communicate with the camera device 2410 and perform one or more facial recognition processes to determine one or more facial recognition processes associated with a user who moved one or more products from the display management system Demographic information and athletic data are received from the display management system. In this manner, the display management system controller device 2400 can be used to collect shopper behavior information and the like that can be used to plan product displays within the store.

In yet another embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may perform one or more processes to obtain information from sensors associated with movement of one or more display management systems (eg, systems 1800, 2100, and/or system 2300). The received data identifies one or more patterns. As such, the processor 2404 may receive motion data from a plurality of sensors (eg, one or more of the sensors 1822 and/or 2130 ) and determine, based on the received motion data, whether the sensor data represents data generated from the one or more display management systems (eg, systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300) the identified patterns (stored in memory 2402) resulting from removal of the product.

In one specific example, the display management system controller device 2400 may receive movement data from a single display management system (eg, system 1800, 2100, or 2300) and determine that the received movement data represents multiple identical products from the display management system 's removal. Additionally, the display management system controller device 2400 may calculate the rate at which products are removed from the display management system. In one example, if the rate at which products are removed from the display management system is above a threshold level, the display management system controller device 2400 may determine that the removal of products may represent attempted theft. For example, where 10 or more products are removed within 30 seconds, the system controller device 2400 may identify that an attempted theft is taking place. In response, the display management system controller device 2400 may perform one or more processes to communicate a warning message to security personnel. In one example, the warning message may be communicated as an electronic message delivered via network 2408 . Additionally or alternatively, the display management system controller device 2400 may communicate with the camera device 2410 to capture one of the users of the display management system from which the movement data was received in response to determining that the movement data represents a pattern associated with an attempted theft or multiple images. In this way, one or more images of the suspected thief can be recorded. Additionally, the display management system controller device 2400 may perform one or more processes to sound an audible message and/or a siren in response to determining that the received motion data may indicate attempted theft.

In another example, the display management system controller device 2400 may retrieve data from multiple sensors (eg, one or more sensors 1822 and/or 2130) associated with multiple display management systems (eg, 1800, 2100, and/or 2300). etc.) receive sensor data, also known as motion data. Accordingly, the merchandising management system controller device 2400 may perform one or more processes to identify one or more patterns from data received from the sensors. In this manner, the display management system controller device 2400 may determine that the received sensor data may be indicative of attempted theft in response to the rate at which products are being removed from the display management systems in close proximity to each other within the store above a threshold rate level. . In response, the display management system controller device 2400 may communicate with the camera 2410, or communicate a message to security personnel, or the like.

In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may receive sensor data from the accelerometer sensor 2130 coupled to the rollover window 2124 . In this way, the data received from the accelerometer sensor 2130 may represent the orientation of the rollover window 2124. In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to recalibrate the detent position (also referred to as the home position) associated with the accelerometer sensor 2130 . Specifically, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to identify that the rollover window 2124 is positioned at a particular angle when the rollover window 2124 is not moved. As such, this particular angle may not be equal to an angle of 0° from the vertical orientation. In response, the processor 2404 may determine that a particular angle represents a stop position from which motion of the accelerometer sensor 2130 will be calculated.

In one embodiment, the display management system controller device 2400 may be configured to defer one or more processes associated with identifying an attempted theft. As such, processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to allow replenishment of one or more display management systems in communication with display management system controller device 2400, and the like. In one example, a physical key may be utilized to disengage communication between the exhibit management system (1800, 2100 and/or 2300) and the exhibit management system controller device 2400. In another example, an electronic communication device (not shown) may be carried by a user restocking one or more of the display management systems in communication with the display management system controller device 2400 . In this way, the electronic medication device can communicate over the network 2408 to identify the user as a person involved in replenishing the display management system. In yet another example, one or more security features associated with the exhibit management system controller device 2400 that are configured to identify a potential attempted theft may be temporarily disabled based on instructions received by the exhibit management system controller device 2400 from the user. pause. In one specific example, the user may be a store manager or the like. As such, a temporary suspension may be applied to a subset of exhibit management systems (eg, one or more of exhibit management systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300) in communication with exhibit management system controller device 2400.

In yet another example, the display management system controller device 2400 may be connected to an inventory control system (not shown). As such, the information collected by the display management system controller device 2400 regarding the quantity of products removed from one or more display management systems (eg, one or more of the display management systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300) may be is communicated to the inventory control system so that information related to the inventory held in the store can be updated in real time, and so on.

In another example, the exhibit management system controller device 2400 may be configured to provide a system that is associated with one or more exhibit management systems (eg, one or more of exhibit management systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300). One or more devices of data, one or more individuals within the store (eg, a customer removing one or more products from the display management system) and/or one or more communication devices (eg, cameras, electronic displays, microphones, ambient light sensors, motion sensors, mobile devices, etc.) As such, the merchandising management system controller device 2400 may communicate with one or more of the devices 2006, 2330, 2410, and/or 2412. However, in one embodiment, communication between one or more of the devices 2006, 2130, 2410, and/or 2412 may not use a direct network connection. As such, in one example, communications between one or more of the depicted devices 2006, 2130, 2410, and/or 2412 may utilize a mesh networking approach without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

FIG. 25 schematically depicts a flow diagram of a process 2500 that may be performed by the display management system controller device 2400 , and in particular by the processor 2404 . In particular, processor 2404 may receive sensor data from one or more sensors (eg, one or more sensors 1822 and/or 2130, etc.). In one example, at block 2502, sensor data may be received. In response to receiving the sensor data, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to determine the source of the received sensor data. In one embodiment, at block 2504 of the process 2500, the processor 2404 may determine the source of the sensor data. As such, the processor 2404 may determine the source of the display management system, such as one or more of the display management systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300, of the received sensor data.

After determining the source of the received sensor data, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to calculate the movement of the mechanism of the display management system. In particular, the processor 2404 may calculate the position of one or more of the pusher 1804 , the flip window 2124 , and/or the helical track 2302 . From this position information, the processor 2404 can calculate the distance moved by one or more of the corresponding mechanisms (1804, 2124 and/or 2302). As such, at block 2506, the one or more processes for calculating the motion of the mechanism of the display management system may be performed in accordance with the motion calculation methods previously described herein.

Additionally, the process 2500 can count the number of products removed from the display management system. In particular, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to infer or look up the depth of the product from a look-up table stored in the memory 2402. Using this information, the processor 2404 can compare the depth of the product to the distance moved by the pusher 1804 in one example. In turn, processor 2404 may calculate the number of products removed from display management system 1800. Similarly, processor 2404 may utilize substantially similar processing to determine the number of products to insert into display management system 1800. Accordingly, at block 2508 of process 2500, this determination of the number of products removed from the display management system may be performed.

In one example, in calculating the number of products removed from the display management system, the processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to attempt to identify patterns from the received sensor data. As such, processor 2404 may perform one or more processes to attempt to identify product removal patterns from one or more display management systems, such as systems 1800, 2100, and/or 2300. In particular, the processor 2404 may be based on the fact that one or more product removal rates are above one or more threshold rate levels, and/or products are being removed from the same merchandising management system and/or multiple products within a predetermined physical radius of each other. The display management system is removed to identify one or more product removal patterns indicative of a potential attempted theft. In one example, at block 2510, the processor 2404 may attempt to identify one or more patterns from the received sensor data. Accordingly, decision block 2512 represents one or more processes performed by the processor 2404 to check whether one or more product removal patterns are found from the received sensor data. In one example, if the processor 2404 identifies a product removal mode, the process 2500 may continue to block 2516, where the processor 2404 may communicate an alert message. As such, the alert message may be an audible message and/or a siren issued by a local audio box, such as local audio box 950 . In another example, the alert message may be an electronic message communicated to security personnel within the store, or the like. In another example, if the product removal mode is not recognized by the processor 2404, the process 2500 may proceed to block 2514 and allow the display management system controller device 2400 to communicate with external devices (such as the devices 2410 and/or 2412) communication.

26 is a flow diagram of a process 2600 for calculating the number of products removed from the display management system. In particular, process 2600 is described based on sensor data received from sensors (eg, sensors 1822 and/or 2130 ) that are configured to respond to display management systems such as display management systems 1800 , 2100 and/or 2300 The signal is output by the movement of the movable mechanism (the pusher 1804, the flip window 2124 and/or the spiral track 2302, etc.) inside. In one example, at block 2602 of process 2600, the sensor data may be received by processor 2014. In response, the processor 2014 may perform one or more processes to determine changes in the received output data. In particular, processor 2014 may perform one or more processes to query memory 2010 for stored sensor values indicative of previous outputs from the same sensor from which data was received at block 2602. Accordingly, the processor 2014 can compare the stored sensor values to new sensor values received from the display management system, and calculate changes in the output from the sensors.

In one embodiment, and at decision block 2606, the processor 2014 may compare the calculated change in the output signal from the sensor to one or more predetermined thresholds. As such, the one or more predetermined thresholds may represent a motion threshold below which the processor 2014 may discard the sensor data received at block 2602. Specifically, if the received sensor data is below the one or more predetermined thresholds, it may not be due to product removal from the display management system, but may be due to random movement/vibration of store shelves, etc. As such, in one example, block 2606 may have the behavior of an electronic filter, or the like.

In one example, the processor 2014 may perform those processes associated with blocks 2602 and 2604 while operating in a low power configuration. In this manner, evaluation of received sensor data can be performed while consuming reduced electrical energy, and in one example, thereby extending the battery life of sensors 1822 and/or 2130 . Accordingly, at decision block 2606, if it is determined that the received sensor data does not represent movement of the mechanism of the display management system exceeding one or more thresholds, the process 2600 proceeds to block 2608 and the processor 2014 remains at low power consumption in configuration. However, if it is determined that the received sensor data represents movement of the mechanism of the display management system above one or more thresholds, the process 2600 proceeds to block 2610 and the processor 2014 may enter a high power configuration. In one example, the high power configuration may include communication of sensor data to a remote processor, such as processor 2404. In another example, a high power configuration may include one or more additional processing performed by the same processor 2014, wherein the additional processing may be performed at a higher rate than the power consumed by the processor 2014 in a low power configuration The rate consumes power.

In one example, process 2600 includes calculating the position of movable mechanisms of the display management system (eg, pusher 1804, flip window 2124, and/or spiral track 2302, etc.). In particular, this position calculation of the movable mechanism of the display management system may be performed at block 2612. As such, the calculation of the position of the movable mechanism of the display management system may include performing one or more sub-processing to convert the received sensor data into an indication of the position of the movable mechanism. Specifically, block 2612 may include performing one or more processes to convert a value proportional to the capacitance of sensor 1822 into the position of pusher 1804 . Additionally or alternatively, block 2612 may include performing one or more processes to convert a value proportional to the acceleration sensed by the accelerometer 2130 into the position of the flip window 2124 or helical track 2302 .

In calculating the location of the movable mechanism of the display management system, the processor 2014 and/or the processor 2404 may query a look-up table stored in the memory 2010 and/or 2402 to obtain one or more information associated with each product. This information may include depth dimensions of products stored within the display management system. Accordingly, using this information, processors 2014 and/or 2404 can calculate the number of products removed from the display management system. Specifically, processors 2014 and/or 2404 may compare the distance moved by the movable mechanism of the display management system to a particular product size. In one specific example, the distance moved by the pusher 1804 may be divided by the depth dimension of the products stored within the display management system 1800 . In one example, at block 2616, this calculation of the number of products removed from the display management system may be performed.

The various embodiments described herein can be implemented by general purpose or special purpose computer hardware. In one example, computer hardware may include one or more processors, otherwise referred to as microprocessors, having one or more processing cores configured to allow parallel processing/execution of instructions. As such, the various disclosures described herein can be implemented as software code, wherein those skilled in the art will recognize various coding languages that can be used with the disclosures described herein. Furthermore, the disclosure described herein may be used in the implementation of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or in the implementation of various electronic components including conventional electronic circuits (or referred to as off-the-shelf components). Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the various descriptions included in this disclosure may be implemented as data signals communicated using a variety of different technologies and processes. For example, descriptions of various disclosures described herein may be understood to include one or more streams of data signals, data instructions, or requests, and physically conveyed by different voltage levels, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields, optical fields, or The bit or symbol represented by its combination.

One or more of the disclosures described herein may include a computer program product having a computer-readable medium having stored thereon/in instructions that, when executed by a processor, are configured to execute One or more of the methods, techniques, systems, or embodiments described herein. As such, instructions stored on a computer-readable medium may include actions to be executed for performing the various steps of the methods, techniques, systems or embodiments described herein. In addition, a computer-readable medium may include a storage medium having instructions configured to be processed by a computing device, and in particular relates to a processor associated with the computing device. As such, computer-readable media may include persistent or volatile memory such as hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), compact disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs), tape drives, floppy disks, ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM , DRAM, VRAM, flash memory, RAID devices, remote data storage (cloud storage, etc.), or any other media type or storage device suitable for storing data on/in. Additionally, a combination of different storage media types may be implemented as a hybrid storage device. In one embodiment, the first storage medium may take precedence over the second storage medium, such that different workloads may be implemented by storage media with different priorities.

In addition, the computer-readable medium may store software codes/instructions configured to control one or more of a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. The software can be used to facilitate an interface between a human user and a computing device, and wherein the software can include device drivers, operating systems, and applications. As such, a computer-readable medium may store software code/instructions configured to perform one or more embodiments described herein.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, techniques, or method steps of those embodiments described herein can be implemented as electronic hardware devices, computer software, or combinations thereof. As such, various illustrative modules/components have been described throughout this disclosure in terms of general functionality, where those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the described disclosure may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both.

One or more embodiments described throughout this disclosure may utilize logical blocks, modules, and circuits that may use general purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), A field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein is implemented or performed. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (eg, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor), multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined within a DSP, or any other such configuration.

Steps of techniques or methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented directly in hardware, software executed by a processor, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, any software module, software layer, or thread described herein may include an engine comprising firmware or software and hardware configured to perform the embodiments described herein. The functions of the software modules or software layers described herein may be directly implemented in hardware, or may be implemented as software executed by a processor, or may be implemented as a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An example storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read data from, and write data to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in the user device. In the alternative, the processor and storage medium may reside in the user device as discrete components.

27 shows an example block diagram of an apparatus for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. Network 27110 may include a network with one or more access points, Internet appliances, telephone networks, cellular telephone networks, fiber optic networks, local wireless networks (eg, WiMAX), satellite networks, and any other desired network. Network 27110 may include and/or serve as cloud computing infrastructure including various processing and/or memory devices (eg, servers, databases, application providers, etc.).

Detailed Description

The various devices described herein (such as continuous display shelf edge label devices, servers, scanners, databases, computers, etc.) may be computing devices, and FIG. 27 illustrates that any of the various computing devices discussed herein may be implemented. common hardware components. Computing device 27100 can include one or more processors 27101 that can execute instructions of a computer program to perform any of the features described herein. The processor 27101 may comprise a custom digital integrated circuit, such as an ASIC. However, in some applications, commercially available processors may be used. Instructions may be stored in any type of non-transitory computer readable medium or memory to configure the operation of the processor 27101. For example, instructions may be stored in read only memory (ROM) 27102, random access memory (RAM) 27103, hard drive 27105, removable media 27104 such as a universal serial bus (USB) drive, compact disc (CD) or digital Versatile Disc (DVD), floppy disk drive or any other desired electronic storage medium. Instructions may also be stored on an attached (or internal) hard drive 27105. One or more of memories 27102, 27103, 27104, and/or 27105 may include a higher-level operating environment, such as an operating system for advanced functionality and adaptability.

One or more of memories 27102, 27103, 27104, and/or 27105 may include stored address location and display data location data. The address location may include an address identifying computing device 27100. The address may uniquely identify computing device 27100. Display data location data may be used by processor 27101 to format data to be displayed on display 27111. This can include textual data, graphics, dynamic content and composition. According to at least one embodiment, the display data location data in memory may conform to a markup language such as HTML, XML, or the like. Although the display 27111 is shown external to the computing device 27100 in FIG. 27, the display 27111 may also be integrated into the same physical housing and/or structure as the computing device 27100. One or more components shown within computing device 27100 may similarly be housed separately in another device and/or in another location than computing device 27100 .

Computing device 27100 may include one or more output devices, such as a display 27111 and a printer 27112, and may include one or more output device controllers 27107, such as a video processor. There may also be one or more user input devices (not shown), such as a remote control, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, microphone, and the like. In another embodiment, the user's input/output functions may occur through display 27111, which may be configured to allow touch screen input to view additional output on display 27111. As shown in the examples of Figures 29-34B, the display 27111 can be configured to be oriented along the entire edge of the retailer's shelf. This area of the shelf typically includes: a paper label that identifies the product being sold on it; and possibly additional information such as price, cost per ounce, and the like. Electronic shelf labels allow a similar concept to paper labels, but with a separate computing device with a display screen for each product. Such electronic shelf label devices provide information about the individual products sold thereon and possibly additional information, such as price, cost per ounce, etc., and may include additional output such as video. The video may contain promotional content, seasonal greetings, and/or general messages for consumers. However, the display 27111 of Figure 27 is configured to output at least two user interfaces related to two different products that the retailer may offer for sale.

Display 27111, operating in conjunction with device controller 27107 and/or processor 27101, may be configured to receive swipes across its surface by a person's finger. The swipe of the finger may be associated with an action sheet of actions to be taken with respect to the output user interface data. Display 27111 operating in conjunction with device controller 27107 and/or processor 27101 may be configured to translate one or more finger swipes across its surface to one or more specific actions to be taken as described herein. Illustrative examples may include interpreting the movement of two fingers on a surface away from each other as an enlargement instruction, such as an input used by an individual to enlarge the size of something, such as text size for a user interface, border design size for a user interface , the frame size of the user interface, etc. Other examples include interpreting an "X" created by moving two fingers over the top of the user interface as a delete instruction, such as a personal input for deleting the user interface. Still other examples include interpreting a press-and-hold and movement of a finger from one area of the display to another area of the display as a movement instruction, such as is used by an individual to move a user interface from its current location on the display to another location on the display input of. Additional illustrative examples include interpreting a double tap on a display surface by a two-finger tap as an add instruction, such as an input by an individual to add a user interface to the tapped area of the display. Further illustrative examples include interpreting the movement of two fingers on a surface towards each other as a zoom-out instruction, such as an input by an individual to reduce the size of something, such as text size of a user interface, boundary design of a user interface size, frame size of the user interface, etc. The examples described here are merely illustrative and may include any of a number of additional input movements/tappings across the surface of the display 27111 herein, any of a number of other types of instruction requests for individuals, to change Parameters of the user interface on display 27111.

In other embodiments, display 27111 may be configured to recognize movement of a stylus or other pointing device against its surface in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to an individual's fingers. The user and display 27111 can interact with the stylus as the source of input by the user. In terms of potential authorization of an individual, some form of identification/authorization can be built into the stylus such that if the stylus touches the display 27111, the stylus can act as a tool for authorizing the individual to display the shelf continuously as described herein. A mechanism for changing one or more parameters of an edge label device. In still further embodiments, the display 27111 may be configured to recognize movement of an individual's finger against its surface for direct input of user interface information. The user may handwrite pricing information and/or other information about a particular product on display 27111 with her finger. Software may be included in the memory of the computing device to translate the received finger swipes into information corresponding to pricing information, product name information, and/or other product data information. In such an example, the worker can only write the current pricing of the product.

Similarly, display 27111 can be configured to activate an on-screen electronic keyboard and/or electronic keypad. An alphanumeric user interface may be displayed on display 27111 to allow authorized individuals to enter product information data and/or modify the user interface on display 27111 in some other manner. For example, a worker can enter pricing for a particular product by entering a sequence of numbers on the displayed numeric keypad. Inputs with a "$" character followed by a "1", "., "4", "9" may be translated by software within the memory of the computing device associated with the display 27111 to a user interface for a particular product. Pricing label of $1.49. In other cases, staff may use alphanumeric characters to type text for display in the product's user interface, such as "Now on sale! ”. In other cases, special numeric entry options are available to authorized individuals for quick entry. A favorites list can prompt staff to choose from a list where one entry can be “on sale now” and a second One input could be "The bargain sale ends tomorrow", while another input could be "Buy 1 get 1 free! ".

In other embodiments, authorized individuals may access the display 27111 to access data of the user interface from a remote location. In the example of Figure 28A, where data about the product may be maintained in database 28223, a worker may access display 27111 with respect to the product's specific user interface. Staff can access the database through a visual file/folder system. Each component that implements the disclosed network system described herein may be accessible through a continuous display shelf edge label device, and may appear on display 27111 as some type of visual indicator. A worker can search for and find the appropriate component for the requested data (such as finding an icon corresponding to database 28223) and access the component (activate the icon) to obtain the desired data. Any of a number of additional input mechanisms could be used, and the examples described here are illustrative only.

In further embodiments, the display 27111 may be configured to include gesture-based interface capabilities as a way to allow authorized individuals to edit/manipulate the user interface on the display 27111. Display 27111 may include appropriate hardware and/or software components to interpret an individual's gesture (whether finger, hand, and/or some other body gesture) via mathematical algorithms. These gestures may include one or more of the finger-to-surface examples described herein. In some of these embodiments, one or more cameras may be associated with and/or included with display 27111 for capturing imaging and recognition of gestures. Although most of the examples herein are directed to individuals using their fingers to interfacing with a display, it should be understood that such examples can be similarly implemented through the gesture-based techniques described herein.

Computing device 27100 may also include one or more network interfaces, such as input/output circuits 27109 (such as network interface circuits, scanner interface circuits, etc.) that communicate with external network 27110. Input/output circuitry 27109 may be a wired interface, a wireless interface, or a combination of both. Input/output circuitry 27109 allows communication between two computing devices, such as continuous display shelf edge label devices and scanners (eg, 28200 and 28221 in Figure 28 described herein), continuous display shelf edge label devices and remote users Terminals (eg, 28200 and 28227 in Figure 28 described herein), and/or continuous display shelf edge label devices and databases (eg, 28200 and 28223 in Figure 28 described herein), and/or continuous display shelf edge label devices and Products on the shelf (eg, 28200A, 28200B, and 28200C in Figure 28B described herein).

Computing device 27100 may also include power supply 27113. The power supply 27113 allows the computing device to operate the processor 27101 and various other components. For example, power drawn from power supply 113 may be used to power products on the shelf, eg, 28200A, 28200B, and 28200C in Figure 28B described herein. The power drawn from the power supply 113 may also be used to provide power to the packaging that encapsulates the product on the shelf. Power source 27113 may include a dedicated battery power source or an external power source, such as an AC power connection. In other embodiments, the power supply 27113 may be configured to operate by harvesting energy for operation from ambient light in a store where the computing device is located. Light energy can be captured by various conversion means, such as by photosensors, solar photovoltaic panels, and photodiodes. Because the computing device 27100 can operate without an external source connection, movement of the computing device from one physical location to another can be accomplished without requiring reconnection to another external source. Additionally, because the computing device 27100 can operate without an internal battery, the computing device does not need to be inspected to ensure operation, nor does it require a technician to replace the internal battery.

28A-28B illustrate example block diagrams of systems for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the invention. In the example of FIG. 28A, a plurality of computing devices are shown operably connected to network 28210. Network 28210 may include Network 27110. Three consecutive display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C and products 28201A-28201C are shown connected to network 28210. In addition, packages of packaged products 28201A-28201C can also be connected to network 28210. Continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C may be computing device 27100 and/or may include one or more of the components described therein. Three consecutive display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C may be along the aisle of a retailer's store. As shown in Figure 28B, three consecutive display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C may be positioned over each other. Products 28201A-201C may be positioned over each of the consecutive display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C, respectively. Products 28201A-201C can communicate with each other and with continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C. Although illustratively shown as wireless communication, the transmission path between the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C and the products 28201A-201C may be a wired communication path through the network 28210 and/or in some other manner.

Continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A is shown in communication with scanner 28221. Although illustratively shown as wireless communication, the transmission path between the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A and the scanner 28221 may be a wired communication path through the network 28210 and/or in some other manner. The scanner 28221 may interact with the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A through a communication interface such as the input/output circuit 27109. The continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A may be configured to receive data representing information about such products on the shelf at which the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A is located. An authorized individual, such as a retailer's staff, may desire to update the pricing data currently being displayed about the products on the shelf. By interfacing with the scanner 28221, price data for a particular product may be electronically received by the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A. Exemplary means for transmitting such data include encoding the data for wireless transmission, and wirelessly forwarding the data to the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A. In one example, a person may enter a price at the scanner 28221 and data representing the price may be wirelessly sent to the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A. The continuous display shelf edge label device 28200A can then update the user interface of the product corresponding to the price data described herein.

Continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200B and 28200C are shown in communication with each other. Although illustratively shown as wireless communication, the transmission path between the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200B and 28200C may be a wired communication path through the network 28210 and/or in some other manner. Continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B may interact with continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C through a communication interface, such as input/output circuitry 27109. The continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B may be configured to receive data representing information about the products on the shelf at which the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B is located. An authorized individual, such as a retailer's staff, may desire to update the pricing data currently being displayed regarding the products on the shelf. By interacting with the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C, price data for a particular product can be electronically received by the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B. Such an interface could be a worker swiping their finger across the display surface of the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C to initiate movement commands to transfer the user interface from the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C to the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B . In one example, a worker may press and hold the user interface on the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C and move her finger quickly in a flicking motion. Such an action can be interpreted by the system as moving the flicked user interface to the next shelf edge. In this way, since the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B is on the next shelf edge above the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200C, a flicking user interface can be added to the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B. Illustrative means for transmitting such data include encoding the data for wired transmission, and forwarding the data to the continuous display shelf edge label device 28200B.

Aspects of the interaction between a worker located near a shelf and the scanner 28221 can be similarly implemented between workers located far from such a shelf. User terminal device 28227 is shown operably connected to continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C and products 28201A-201C via network 28210 and main hub 28225. The main hub 28225 may be some type of central processing server configured to accommodate the transmission of communications between the various back-end components of the retailer's network, such as the user terminals 28227 and the database 28223, and from the back-end over the network 28210 Transmission to the storefront end, such as to continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C, and transmission over network 28210 to products 28201A-201C. The main hub 28225, the user terminal 28227 and/or the database 28223 may include one or more components of the computing device 27100 shown in FIG. 27 .

Staff at user terminal 28227 can update pricing data and/or other data about a particular product on a particular shelf by accessing the continuous display shelf edge label device associated with the product. User terminal 28227 may access database 28223 to obtain current product information for potential displays and/or scheduled displays. Instructions regarding such product information may be sent from the user terminal 28227 to the appropriate continuous display shelf edge label device. In other embodiments, the database 28223, the main hub 28225, and/or the user terminal 28227 may periodically push current product information data to the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C, either globally or exclusively. Continuous Display Shelf Edge Label Devices 28200A-200C can receive such data and change the user interface being displayed as needed.

Alternatively, the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C may be configured to automatically initiate price updates. For example, continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C may access database 28223 to obtain current product information data for continuous display of the corresponding user interface on the shelf edge label device. The continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C may periodically poll the database 28223 for current product information data and change the user interface being displayed as needed.

In one such example, database 28223 may be periodically updated with pricing changes, such as by staff via user terminal 28227. In a second such example, the database 28223 may obtain current product information from an external source when accessed by a continuous display shelf edge label device. These sources may include competing brick-and-mortar retailers and/or competing online retailers, and this allows the database 28223 to obtain real-time current product information. Such current product information may be communicated from database 28223 to continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C. In one example, the database 28223 may also transmit an indication that continuously displays whether the shelf edge label device should update the user interface to reflect current product information, eg, using a flag. Alternatively, the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C may be configured to independently determine whether the user interface should be updated to reflect current product information. For example, continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-200C may be configured with thresholds. If the price in the current product information falls above or below a threshold or within a threshold range, the continuous display shelf edge label device may update the user interface with the current product information. If the price in the current product information exceeds a threshold, the continuous display shelf edge label device may determine that the user interface should not be updated. Alternatively, in this case, the continuous display shelf edge label device may query the database 28223 for exceptions. If the database 28223 allows exceptions, the continuous display shelf edge label device may update the user interface with current product information; otherwise, the continuous display shelf edge label device may not modify the user interface.

29 shows an example block diagram of an apparatus for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. 29 shows a continuous display shelf edge label device 29300, such as continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C. In this example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 includes a single display area 29301 oriented along the entire edge of the shelf 29350. In one example, the shelf 29350 is made of plastic. From a marketing standpoint, plastic shelves offer several advantages because plastic is lightweight. Lightweight plastic shelves are less expensive to ship and can be pulled out for, for example, cleaning, retrieving dropped products, and inventory purposes. This makes it easier and faster to rotate inventory and stock shelves. Plastic shelves can be manufactured using a molding process, wherein the shelf can include a chassis in which a continuous display shelf edge label device can be integrated. Plastic shelves can have repeaters embedded within the shelves. Additionally, blade signs can be mounted on plastic shelves.

Additionally, plastic shelves offer advantages over traditional metal shelves because power (and other signals) can penetrate plastic shelves with little or no interference. Electronics and other components can be embedded directly into plastic shelves. Passing the signal through the plastic shelf allows for powering, for example, the printer 27112, the product on the shelf, and the packaging of the product to be packaged on the shelf. For example, power can be sent over air from a plastic shelf to a receiver in a product or its packaging. Signals traveling through plastic shelves allow for better communication between components throughout the network, including from back-end computers to shelves, pushers, and products. Plastic shelves can also be used to interact with products—displays on shelves can extend into products or packaging.

As mentioned above, electrical and other signals penetrate plastic shelves with less interference than metal shelves. Therefore, it is easier to mount and power additional user devices to the plastic shelf 29350, such as the printer 27112. This allows for more user interaction and can motivate customers to make purchases they would not otherwise make. For example, if the customer selects the first product, the continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 may display the component instructions for the first product and an option to allow the customer to print the component instructions via the printer 27112. In a second example, if the customer selects the first food item, the continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 may provide a recipe that includes the first food item. The continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 may present the user with options to print via the printer 27112 a list of recipes and/or other ingredients used in the recipe.

The continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 is also shown to include a locking mechanism 29303 that allows an individual to change the mode of operation of the continuous display shelf edge label device 29300 as described herein. In one mode, an authorized individual can edit one or more of the user interfaces 29311, 29313 and 29315, while in the second mode, the user interfaces 29311, 29313 and 29315 cannot be edited.

A single continuous display 29301 provides continuous labeling across shelves 29350 on the product itself (eg, 29321, 29323, and 29325), on the packaging that encloses the product, or any combination thereof. A single continuous display 29301 allows dynamic and static messaging to customers, including streaming video/audio. Newsfeeds can include pricing, advertisements, images, and goodwill (eg, happy holidays). As discussed above with reference to Figure 28, changes in pricing can be quickly and efficiently reflected on the user interface. Price updates can be provided hourly, daily, weekly, yearly, etc., and can also fluctuate based on current and projected inventory. Additionally, the user interface on a single continuous display 29301 is a valuable real estate that retailers can utilize to recoup the cost of their investment. For example, retailers can lease display space on user interfaces to manufacturers and other businesses for advertising. The data collected by the single continuous display 29301 via the interactive user interface can also be sold to various manufacturers as well as numerous businesses focused on collecting, analyzing and monetizing data.

A single continuous display 29301 is shown to include three separate user interfaces that provide information about three separate products for sale on shelf 29350. In this example, shelf 29350 holds a first product 29321, a second product 29323, and a third product 29325. A single continuous display 29301 includes three digital user interfaces, one for each corresponding product for sale. The user interface 29311 provides information about the first product 29321 directly above the user interface 29311. Similarly, user interfaces 29313 and 29315 provide information about a second product 29323 and a third product 29325 above the respective user interfaces 29313, 29315, respectively. Any of a variety of types of information about the product can be displayed on a single continuous display 29301, including graphics, text, animation, video, and/or combinations.

Since the single continuous display 29301 is designed to be dynamic, the displayed messages are not limited to any particular size or configuration. Rather, messages can change dynamically and continuously, and can include any combination of any number of individual continuous displays, user interfaces, products, and packaging that encapsulates the products. In one example, separate user interfaces in a single continuous display 29301 can be utilized such that each user interface displays a portion of a larger message. For example, if a single continuous display 29301 is to display "limited time only," user interface 29311 may be configured to display "limited," user interface 29313 may be used to display "time," and user interface 29315 may be configured to display "limited time." only". In another example, messages may first be distributed among multiple consecutive displays stacked vertically, and then further subdivided between individual user interfaces on each of the consecutive displays and/or wrappers corresponding to the user interfaces . The message may include graphics, text, animation, streaming video, or any combination thereof. Each of the vertically stacked multiple consecutive displays, user interface, and packaging can then simultaneously output a different portion of the message.

30A-30B illustrate an example of changing a continuous display in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. The transition from Figure 30A to Figure 30B shows one possibility before and after the operation of changing the user interface of a single continuous display. In FIG. 30A, a continuous display shelf edge label device 30400 for shelf 29350 is shown. The continuous shelf label device 30400 may be one of the continuous display shelf edge label devices 28200A-28200C and 29300. Continuous display shelf edge label device 30400 includes a single display area 30401 oriented along the entire edge of shelf 29350. The single continuous display 30401 shown includes three separate user interfaces that provide information about three separate products for sale on shelf 29350.

For this illustrative example, number divider 30441 creates three separate visual boxes for three separate user interfaces 30411A, 30413A, and 30415. A digital divider line is not a physical line that separates two displays, but a digital line that creates the appearance of separating a single continuous display 30401 into multiple display areas. In this example, shelf 29350 holds a first product 30421, a second product 30423, and a third product 30425. A single continuous display 30401 includes three digital user interfaces, one for each corresponding product for sale. The user interface 30411A provides information about the first product 30421 directly above the user interface 30411. User interface 30413A provides information on the second product 30423 directly above the user interface 30413A, and user interface 30415 provides information on the third product 30425 directly above the user interface 30415.

Turning to Figure 30B, the worker may want to change the product layout of shelf 29350, and in this example a third product 30425 has been removed from shelf 29350, and a first product 30421 has been created on shelf 29350 to store leave a larger area. Thus, in response, the worker changes the user interface of the single continuous display 30401, as described herein. In this example, the user interface 30411B is now shown as having moved towards the right side of the continuous display 30401 because the position of the user interface has changed since the first product 30421 has been moved to the right side of the shelf 29350. Similarly, since the second product 30423 has moved to the left side of the shelf 29350, the user interface 30413B is shown to have moved towards the left side of the continuous display 30401. Because the third product 30425 is no longer offered on shelf 29350 for sale, the user interface 30415 for the third product 30425 has been removed from the continuous display 30401. In this example of Figure 30B, since only two user interfaces 30411B and 30413B are shown on the continuous display 30401, only one numerical dividing line 30441 is shown to frame the two separate user interfaces 30411B and 30413B.

31A-31C illustrate an example continuous display with a locking mechanism in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. As described herein, a locking mechanism may be included on the continuous display shelf edge label device to prevent unauthorized individuals from changing one or more parameters of the user interface displayed on the continuous display shelf edge label device, such as displayed information . Any of a variety of preventive modalities may be included herein, the following are just some illustrative examples. In FIG. 31A, a manual device input 31503A, such as for a physical key, may be included in a continuous display shelf edge label device 31500A. By inserting the appropriate key, an authorized individual can change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device from display mode to change mode.

The display mode may be a mode of operation in which the continuous display shelf edge label device displays one or more interfaces on a single continuous display, and may even allow a user, such as a customer, to access the single continuous display for additional information. Such access may be by touch. However, in display mode, such a customer cannot change parameters of the user interface being displayed, such as the size of the user interface, the shape of the user interface, or the position of the user interface on a single continuous display. The customer can view and interact as permissible without the ability to change the parameters of the display area of the user interface. The change mode may be a mode of operation in which the continuous display shelf edge label device displays one or more interfaces on a single continuous display and allows an authorized user (such as a staff member) to change one or more parameters of the single continuous display. Such access may be by touch as described herein. In the change mode, a worker can change parameters of the user interface being displayed on a single continuous display, such as the size of the user interface, the shape of the user interface, or the position of the user interface. In this way, the staff can easily modify any aspect of the user interface corresponding to the product at the point of sale.

31B and 31C show two other types of locking mechanisms. In FIG. 31B, a biometric scanner 31503B, such as to scan a fingerprint, may be included in a continuous display shelf edge label device 31500B. By pressing a finger against the biometric scanner 31503B, an authorized individual can change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device from display mode to change mode. In Figure 31C, a near field communication (NFC) reader 31503C, such as to scan a worker's NFC-enabled access card, may be included in a continuous display shelf edge label device 31500C. By pressing the NFC-enabled access card against the NFC reader 31503C, an authorized individual can change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device from display mode to change mode.

31D-31F illustrate an example of changing a continuous display of a user interface with a locking mechanism in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In the example of Figures 31D-31F, a locking mechanism is built into the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D. In this example, a worker would enter a code to change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D. As shown in Figure 31D, a single continuous display 31501D includes two user interfaces 31511 and 31513 for corresponding products. Also shown in Figure 31D is a lock icon 31503D. Access to the lock icon 31503D allows an authorized individual to change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D. By clicking on the lock icon 31503D, the worker can be shown what is seen in Figure 31E. In Figure 31E, a new user interface 31503E appears, which prompts the individual to enter a code to authorize a change of operating mode. By inserting the appropriate code in Figure 31E, an authorized individual can change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D from display mode to change mode.

If the individual does not enter the correct code, the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D can switch back to the appearance shown in Figure 31D. However, if the individual does enter the correct code, the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D can change the operating mode to a change mode that allows the individual to change one or more parameters of one or more user interfaces of the product. After any change, the individual does not enter the correct code, the continuous display shelf edge label device 31500D can switch back to display mode, as shown in Figure 31F. As shown, the individual has changed the positions of user interface 31511 and user interface 31513 relative to each other on a single continuous display 31501D. A lock icon 31503D is also shown.

32A-32B illustrate an example of resizing a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the invention. In this illustrative example, an authorized individual has accessed a mode change request in continuous display shelf edge label device 32600. In this example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 32600 includes a single continuous display 32601 oriented along the entire edge of the shelf. Figure 32A may show two user interfaces 32611 and 32613A prior to changing parameters of user interface 32613A. In this example, the borders of each user interface 32611 and 32613A are different in shape, and the text within the borders is also different in size. Through one or more of the operations described herein, FIG. 32B illustrates what the continuous display shelf edge label device 32600 may look like after a change operation to change the size of the user interface 32613A. As shown in Figure 32B, the user interface 32613B has the text within it reduced in size. From the transition of Figure 32A to Figure 32B, the authorized individual has changed the parameter of user interface 32613A (large size of text) to the parameter of user interface 32613B (smaller size of text).

33A-33B illustrate an example of changing the shape of a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In this illustrative example, an authorized individual has accessed a mode change request in continuous display shelf edge label device 33700. In this example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 33700 includes a single continuous display 33701 oriented along the entire edge of the shelf. Figure 33A may show two user interfaces 33711 and 33713A prior to changing parameters of the user interface 33713A. In this example, the borders of each user interface 33711 and 33713A are shaped differently, and the size of the text within the borders is also different. Through one or more of the operations described herein, Figure 33B illustrates what the continuous display shelf edge label device 33700 may look like after a change operation to change the shape of the border of the user interface 33713A. As shown in FIG. 33B, the user interface 33713B has the shape of the borders of the user interface that differ in appearance. From the transition of Figure 33A to Figure 33B, the authorized individual has changed the parameters of the boundaries of user interface 33713A (rectangular shape) to parameters of the boundaries of user interface 33713B (rounded corner rectangles with pointed shapes).

34A-34B illustrate an example of changing the position of a user interface in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In this illustrative example, an authorized individual has accessed a mode change request in continuous display shelf edge label device 34800. In this example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 34800 includes a single continuous display 34801 oriented along the entire edge of the shelf. Figure 34A may show two user interfaces 34811A and 34813A prior to changing parameters of the user interfaces 34811A and 34813A. In this example, the position of each user interface 34811A and 34813A within a single continuous display 34801 is changed. Through one or more operations described herein, Figure 34B illustrates what a continuous display shelf edge label device 34800 may look like after a change operation to change the position of the two user interfaces 34811A and 34813A. As shown in Figure 34B, within a single continuous display 34801, user interface 34813B has changed positional orientation relative to user interface 34811B. From the transition of Figure 34A to Figure 34B, the authorized individual has changed the two parameters of the location of each user interface 34811A and 34813A to the two parameters of the location of each user interface 34811B and 34813B.

35 illustrates an example method of distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In one example, one or more of the steps of Figure 35 may be implemented by computing device 27100 in Figure 27 and/or the devices shown in Figures 28A-28B. The process begins, and at step 35901, the continuous display shelf edge label device outputs, via a single continuous display, two or more user interfaces, each user interface corresponding to a product for sale. Such an example is shown in FIG. 29 . Proceeding to step 35903, it is determined whether a change in the mode of continuously displaying the shelf edge label device is authorized. An example of this could be a worker inserting her finger at the biometric scanner 31503B in Figure 31B and making the system aware that she is authorized to change the operating mode of the continuous display shelf edge label device.

If in step 35903 the change of operating mode is not authorized, the process moves to step 35905 where there is no instruction to change the operating mode and the process returns to step 35901 to output two or more users via a single continuous display interfaces, each user interface corresponds to a product for sale. If a change in operating mode is authorized in step 35903, the process proceeds to step 35907 where additional determinations are made. At step 35907, a determination is made as to whether a parameter change input has been received. Illustrative examples of parameter changes are shown with reference to Figures 32A and 32B, Figures 33A and 33B, and/or Figures 34A and 34B. If no parameter change input is received, the process proceeds to step 35909. If a parameter change input is received in step 35907, the process moves to step 35911 where a parameter change is implemented on the requested user interface, such as increasing the size of the text of the user interface. The process then proceeds to step 35913.

Returning to step 35909, a further determination is made as to whether user interface input to remove and/or add products has been received. Such an illustrative example is shown with user interface 30415 removed from Figures 30A-30B. If no input is received in step 35909, the process may return to step 35905 and may further exit from the change mode of operation to the display mode of operation before returning to step 35901. If input is received in step 35909, the process moves to step 35915 where the user interface to which the input applies is added or removed based on the input. The process then proceeds to step 35913.

In step 35913, a determination is made as to whether additional changes in the change mode of operation are requested. If there are additional changes requested, the process may return to step 35907. If no additional changes are requested, the process proceeds to step 35917. In step 35917, before returning to step 35901, an operation of continuously displaying the shelf edge label device from a change mode of operation to a display mode of operation occurs to output two or more user interfaces via a single continuous display, each user The interface corresponds to the product for sale and is consistent with any changes that may have been implemented.

36 illustrates another example method of distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In one example, one or more of the steps of Figure 36 may be implemented by computing device 27100 in Figure 27 and/or the devices shown in Figures 28A-28B. The process begins, and at step 271001, the two continuous display shelf edge label devices each output two or more user interfaces, each corresponding to a product for sale, via a single continuous display. FIG. 28B shows such an example. Proceeding to step 271003, a determination is made as to whether data is being received by one of the continuous display shelf edge label devices. If not, the process can return to step 271001. If data is being received in step 271003, the process moves to step 271005.

In step 271005, the authorization of the shelf edge label device confirmation data is displayed continuously. For example, the system can confirm that the data being received is for continuous display of shelf edge labeling devices. If the data is a global transfer from a database such as database 28223 in Figure 28A, the continuous display shelf edge label device may determine that the data being received in step 271003 is not intended for continuous display shelf edge label devices. In the event that authorization of the data is confirmed in step 271005, the process moves to step 271007 where the origin of the data can be determined. For example, a continuous display shelf edge label device may determine that data is being received locally via wireless communications received from a scanner such as scanner 27221 in Figure 28A. In another example, the continuous display shelf edge label device may determine that data is being received remotely via wired communications received from a user terminal, such as user terminal 28227, via main hub 28225 and network 28210 in Figure 28A.

Turning to step 271009, a determination can be made as to whether one or more user interfaces currently being output needs to be changed by continuously displaying the shelf edge label device via a single continuous display. For example, if the data received in step 271003 and confirmed in step 271005 as applied to the continuous display shelf edge label device may include price changes for the product associated with the user interface being output. If no changes are required in step 271009, the process may return to step 271001. If in step 271009 it is desired to change one or more of the user interfaces currently being output by continuously displaying the shelf edge label device via a single continuous display, then the process moves to step 271011 at which step 271011 by continuously displaying the shelf edge label device via a single continuous display The display implements one or more changes to one or more user interfaces that are currently being output. Thereafter, the process may return to step 271001 where the two continuous display shelf edge label devices each output via a single continuous display two or more user interfaces, each user interface corresponding to a product for sale, where at step 271003 Each user interface of the shelf edge label device that continuously displays the data received in step 271011 outputs one or more user interfaces in accordance with any changes that may have been implemented in step 271011.

37 shows an example block diagram of a system for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In one example, one or more of the components of Figure 37 may be implemented by computing device 27100 in Figure 27 and/or one or more of the devices shown in Figures 28A-36. In this example, system 371100 is shown with multiple continuous display shelf edge label devices operating together. In this example, there are four consecutive display shelf edge label devices. Each continuous display shelf edge label device includes a single display area 371101A-371101D oriented along the entire edge of the shelves 371150A-371150D. Further in this example, the shelves 371150A-D each hold a first product 371121A-371121D, a second product 371123A-D, and a third product 371125A-D, respectively. The single sequential displays 371101A-D each include three digital user interfaces, each for a corresponding product for sale. User interfaces 371111A-D provide information about the first product 371121A-D directly above user interfaces 371111A-D, respectively. Similarly, user interfaces 371113A-D and 371115A-D provide information about second products 371123A-D and third products 371125A-D above respective user interfaces 371113A-D, 371115A-D, respectively.

In accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, various continuous display shelf edge label devices may operate in unison to provide additional information to customers. By arranging the continuous display shelf edge label devices in a side-by-side (371101A and 371101B or 371101C and 371101D) orientation and stacked on top of each other like the shelves (371101A and 371101C or 371101B and 371101D), an array of continuous display shelf edge label devices can be is configured. In the illustrative example of FIG. 37, there are four consecutive display shelf edge label devices arranged in an array of 2x2, two rows and two columns of consecutive display shelf edge label devices. Any of a variety of additional arrangements may be implemented, including but not limited to 4x1, 3x4, 3x3, and 4x4 configurations.

By configuring various continuous display shelf edge label devices to operate together, retailers can utilize the display to attract customers in any of a number of desired ways. Such configurations can be used to promote a single product, a single type of product, a single brand, and the like. Animation and/or graphics may be implemented across a plurality of consecutively displayed shelf edge label devices. Different outputs on the display of the continuous display shelf edge label device may be implemented based on detecting the presence of a customer in the aisle, near a particular continuous display shelf edge label device, and/or at some other location in the retail store. As described herein, different display modes may be implemented depending on the desired results and/or effects.

In one such example, every 10-15 seconds, the display on one or more continuous display shelf edge label devices may change the output in some way. In other examples, one or more continuous display shelf edge label devices may remain unchanged in the display output acting as a very vibrant billboard. Whether the displayed output is moving or used as a more constant billboard, the continuous display shelf edge label unit can operate together.

In one embodiment, a customer may be seen from a further distance and drawn to such a changing displayed output or a stationary displayed output. The changing displayed output or the stationary displayed output may be the first display mode of operation. In return, she may be close to the shelf. When she approaches a shelf, one or more continuous display shelf edge label devices can sense her presence, such as through a proximity sensor, and can switch to another display mode. In such an example, specific advertisements may appear for products, such as for products associated with a continuous display shelf edge label device. Such an advertisement may be a notice that a product is being sold at a bargain price. Once a customer is in front of a particular continuous display shelf edge label device for a given period of time (such as 3-5 seconds), the continuous display shelf edge label device may switch to another display mode in which it is SKU specific pricing and packaging information can appear under each product.

In another embodiment, the continuous display shelf edge label device may be preconfigured to switch between different display modes at selected times. For example, a continuous display shelf edge label device may display a first price for a first product during 8 am and 10 am and then automatically display a second price for a second product during 10 am and 12 pm. This allows the retailer to tailor prices to the type of shopper shopping during each time interval, or to easily switch from certain bargain prices (such as early-bird prices) to regular prices.

In yet other illustrative embodiments, the continuous display shelf edge label device may operate with a pusher assembly included within the shelf on which the continuous display shelf edge label device is oriented. The pusher assembly may include a pusher configured to place pressure behind the stack of products and push the stack forward toward the front of the shelf as the products are removed from the stack. Such pusher assemblies may include one or more components to determine the position of the pusher relative to a portion of the assembly. For example, a product stack may be able to fit 10 products. Integrated into the pusher assembly may be a floor that includes tracker components at each of the 10 locations where the pusher may be configured to operate with the product. When the pusher reaches the tracker component, data about the position of the pusher may be known and such data may be transmitted to the continuous display shelf edge labeling device.

Similarly, other data can be determined and transmitted as needed. For example, movement of the pusher relative to the shelf and/or pusher assembly can be determined. Such a determination may be based on position and may include a timer component for determining movement. Additionally, in other examples, the rate of change of the product level of the product associated with the continuous display shelf edge label device may be determined. In such an example, a shelf originally stocked with 50 products is determined to have only 15 products left after a period of time, such as an hour, a notification may be sent to the retailer's staff to replenish the products on the shelf goods. Similarly, such data can be sent to a continuous display shelf edge label device for changing the user interface associated with the product. For the same example, where data has been received for only 15 products remaining, the user interface for continuously displaying the shelf edge label device may be configured to change the information. In some examples, a flashing/blinking display output of "Last 15 left in stock!" may be displayed, or the display output may automatically reduce the price on the user interface by 10%, or upon determination that the shelf edge label is displayed continuously The display can flash/blink in the presence of personnel in the area of the unit. The continuous display shelf edge label device may sense the presence of a worker, such as by sensing the worker's NFC-enabled access card in the sensing range of a sensor associated with and/or included in the continuous display shelf edge label device Inside.

Other data may be communicated from the pusher and/or pusher assembly to and/or determined by the continuous display shelf edge label device. For example, the continuous display shelf edge label device can be programmed with data about the product, the continuous display shelf edge label device is associated with the data, and/or the continuous display shelf edge label device can be obtained from a local or remote source (such as the one in FIG. 23 ). database 28223) to access such data. In one example, a product may have expiration data. For example, a product could be milk, and a specific product on the shelf for sale could have the same expiration date. A threshold can be established to track the number of milk items remaining for expiration dates in order to remove milk items off the shelf, either for customers or for newer milk items with later expiration dates. In one case, the system may reduce the price of milk as the time until the expiration date is met decreases to a threshold. If the expiration date is one week away, the continuous display shelf edge label device may output a price of $2 for milk. When the expiration date is 4 days later, the price can drop by 10%, or the price can drop by $0.25. If there is some milk left when the expiration date is 2 days away, the price can drop by 50%, or by $1. In other cases, as the expiration date approaches a threshold, a notification may be provided to the retailer's staff in some way. Staff can be notified by text or email, on hand-held scanners and/or otherwise that milk needs to be replaced or may soon need to be replaced.

Other descriptive information about the product may also be communicated from the pusher and/or pusher assembly to and/or determined by the continuous display shelf edge label device. An example of this includes determining the remaining product amount of another product, and changing the user interface of the shelf edge label device continuously in response. For example, a continuous display shelf edge label device may determine or receive data from another continuous display shelf edge label device about competing products and/or related products, such as toothpaste to toothbrushes. Using such data, the continuous display shelf edge label device can change the user interface of the product with which it is associated, such as the price of the product, accordingly. In this way, an algorithm can be built to handle when and under what circumstances price changes automatically occur at the continuous display shelf edge label device. The continuous display shelf edge label device may access a remote source to be authorized to do so, and/or itself determine that the user interface of the product should be changed. Thus, if it is determined that a competitor's product is removed from the shelf in a much faster manner than the moving product, a price reduction may occur for the product.

The features of a computing device described herein, which may be one of the devices shown in Figure 27, may be subdivided among multiple processors and computing devices.

38-40 illustrate one or more aspects of a wireless store intelligence system that may be configured for use in conjunction with the various devices discussed herein to, for example, integrate anti-theft, manage inventory, handle electronic price displays, provide marketing messages, Provides interactive displays and provides shopping tools. 38 depicts an example environment for implementing one or more aspects of the wireless store intelligence system. Among other examples, computer software, hardware, and networks may be used in a number of different system environments, including stand-alone, networked, remote access (aka, remote desktop), virtualized, and/or cloud-based environments. 38 illustrates an example of a system architecture and data processing system that can be used to implement one or more of the exemplary aspects described herein in a stand-alone and/or networked environment. Multiple network nodes 38103, 38105, 38107, and 38109 may be interconnected via a wide area network (WAN) 38101, such as the Internet. Other networks and configurations may also or alternatively be utilized, including private intranets, corporate networks, local area networks (LANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), wireless networks, personal networks (PANs), and the like. Network 38101 is for illustration purposes and may be replaced by fewer or more computer networks. For example, a LAN may include one or more of any known LAN topology, and may use one or more of a number of different protocols, such as Ethernet or WiFi. Devices 38103, 38105, 38107, 38109, and other devices (not shown) may be configured to connect to one or more of the networks via twisted pair wires, coaxial cables, fiber optics, radio waves, or other communication media.

The term "network," as used herein and shown in the accompanying drawings, refers not only to systems in which remote storage devices are connected together by one or more communication links, but also to occasional systems that may be connected to such systems having storage capacity. Standalone device. Thus, the term "network" includes not only a "physical network," but also a "content network," which consists of data that resides across all physical networks, including data that can be attributed to a single entity.

Components may include a data server 38103, a web server 38105, and client computers 38107, 38109. Data Server 38103 provides general access, control and management of databases and control software for handling one or more illustrative aspects described herein. The data server 38103 can be linked to the web server 38105 through which users can interact and obtain data as needed. In the alternative, the data server 38103 could itself act as a web server and connect directly to the Internet. The data server 38103 may be linked to the web server 38105 through a network 38101 (eg, the Internet) through a direct or indirect connection, or through some other network. A user may work with the data server 38103 by utilizing remote computers 38107, 38109, such as using a web browser to link to the data server 38103 through one or more externally exposed web sites hosted by the web server 38105. Client computers 38107, 38109 may be used with data server 38103 to obtain data stored in data server 38103, or may be used for other or additional functions. In one example, a user may access web server 38105 from client device 38107 using an Internet browser, or by utilizing a software application that communicates with web server 38105 and/or data server 38103 over a computer network, such as the Internet.

Servers and applications can be federated on the same physical machine and keep separate virtual or logical addresses, or can reside on separate physical machines. Figure 38 shows only one iteration of the network architecture that can be utilized, and those skilled in the art will recognize that the specific network architecture and data processing means used can vary and are secondary to the functionality they provide, as described further herein. In one example, the functionality provided by web server 38105 and data server 38103 can be added to a single server.

Each component 38103, 38105, 38107, 38109 may be any type of computer, server or data processing device known in the art. The data server 38103 may include, for example, a processor 38111 that directs the overall operation of the rate server 38103. Data server 38103 may also include RAM 38113, ROM 38115, network interface 38117, input/output interface 38119 (eg, keyboard, mouse, display, printer, camera, scanner, touch screen, etc.), and memory 38121. I/O 38119 may include a number of interface units and drivers for reading, writing, displaying and/or printing data or files. Memory 38121 may further store operating system software 38123 for controlling the overall operation of data processing device 38103, control logic 38125 for instructing data server 38103 to perform aspects described herein, and other applications that provide auxiliary, support, and/or other functions Software 38127, which may or may not be used in combination with the features described herein. The control logic may also be referred to herein as data server software 38125. The functionality of the data server software may refer to a combination of actions or decisions made automatically based on rules encoded into the control logic, actions or decisions made manually by a user providing input into the system, and/or automatic processing based on user input (e.g. queries, data updates, etc.).

Memory 38121 may also store data used in performing actions of one or more of the features described herein, including into first database 38129 and second database 38131. In some embodiments, the first database may have a second database (eg, as a separate table, report, etc.). That is, depending on the system design, information can be archived in a single database or distributed to different logical, virtual or physical databases. Apparatus 38105, 38107, 38109 may include a similar or different architecture as discussed with respect to apparatus 38103. The functionality of data processing device 38103 (or devices 38105, 38107, 38109) as discussed herein may be positioned across multiple data processing devices, such as to distribute processing load across multiple computers, based on geographic location, user access level, Quality of Service (QoS) etc. are handled separately, as understood in the art.

In addition, any number of personal computers, such as desktops, laptops, notebooks, mobile phones, or smartphones with applications and other functions, handheld devices with Wi-Fi or other wireless connectivity (eg, wireless tablet, tablet , PDA, etc.), displays with built-in or external memory and processors, or any other known computer, computing device, or handheld computer may also be connected to one or more of the networks described herein. It is also contemplated that other types of devices, such as kiosks, ATMs, and other devices, may be connected to one or more of the networks described herein. Wireless access points may be provided for connecting these devices and may include a series of cell towers supported by one or more service providers. Additionally, wireless access points may be Wi-Fi (eg, compatible with IEEE 802.11a/b/g/ and similar wireless communication standards) connections, and computing devices may gain access to the Internet at these connections. Other techniques that will be appreciated by those skilled in the art may be used to allow the device to connect to the network.

One or more features may be implemented in computer-usable or readable data and/or computer-executable instructions, in one or more program modules, which may be executed by one or more computers or other apparatuses described herein. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that, when executed by a processor in a computer or other apparatus, perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Modules may be written in a source code programming language that is then compiled for execution, or may be written in a scripting language such as, but not limited to, Javascript or ActionScript. Computer-executable instructions may be stored on computer-readable media such as non-volatile storage devices. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be used, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, various transmission (non-storage) media representing data or events described herein may be transmitted between a source and a destination in the form of electromagnetic waves propagating through a signaling medium such as wire, optical fiber, and/or or wireless transmission medium (eg, air and/or space). Various aspects described herein can be implemented as a method, data processing system, or computer program product. Accordingly, various functions may be implemented in whole or in part in software, firmware, and/or hardware or hardware equivalents such as integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and the like. Certain data structures may be used to more efficiently implement one or more aspects described herein, and such data structures are contemplated within the scope of computer-executable instructions and computer-usable data described herein.

Figure 39 shows an example configuration of a wireless store or facility intelligence system. As shown in Figure 39, a hub 39100 may be provided. The hub 39100 may be a centralized data routing and receiving device, and may be interconnected with various devices. As described herein, various inputs and outputs can be configured to be routed from these devices through the hub 39100.

In one example, a plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210, which may be associated with a product shelf, may be configured to connect to the hubs 39202-39210 via wired or wireless connections, as discussed herein. In one example, the plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210 may be configured to transmit information to or receive information from the hub 39100. Endpoint devices 39202-39210 may be configured to provide inventory data to hub 39100, or endpoint devices 39202-39210 may be configured to receive product information for display on or near product shelves or displays, product information may include product description, price Data and/or Marketing Materials. The hub 39100 may also be configured to make decisions based on information received from the endpoint devices 39202-39212, such as by generating specific alerts based on inventory data and outputting the alerts to one or more of the display, speakers, or lights 39328.

In certain examples, endpoint devices may include product quantity and movement sensing means 39202, product safety window sensing means 39204, hooked product movement sensing means 39206, electronic shelf labels 39208, interactive displays 39209, beacons 39207, or others Sensing Device and/or Display 39210. For example, the endpoint device may be the display management systems 1800, 2100, and 2300 described above with respect to Figures 18-24, or the continuous display shelf edge label device described above with respect to Figures 28-37. Additionally, the interactive display 39209 can be interconnected to a system that provides customers with interactive shopping tools to aid in shopping decisions. A beacon interconnected with the system may be configured to determine that a target device (eg, a shopper cell phone) is within range, and may initiate communication with the device for advertising or shopping support/assistance purposes under certain circumstances. Additional endpoint devices that provide inventory data and/or are configured to display product information or shelf labels are also contemplated.

The hub 39100 may also be interconnected with a network, which may include various servers 39322, 39324, 39326, and the cloud 39320. The hub 39100 may also be configured to send and receive information to and from the various servers 39322, 39324, 39326 or the cloud 39320 using various communication protocols as discussed herein. For example, the hub 39100 can download information from the plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210 and send the information to any desired server or part of the network, such as the in-store server 39322, the cloud 39320 and/or the external client server 39324. The received information can then be processed at one or more servers, and the servers can make decisions about the received data, such as by generating certain alerts 39330 or requests based on inventory data, or can make the received data Information is available for viewing on portal 39326.

An example hub 39100 is shown in FIG. 40, which may be configured as a computing device that may include the components discussed herein in combination with or in addition to the hardware and software components discussed below and features. Additionally, any device interconnected with hub 39100 may be configured as a computing device and may include similar components and features as hub 39100 and features discussed herein. The example hub 39100 can include one or more processors 40101 that can execute the instructions of a computer program to perform any of the features described herein. The processor 40101 may comprise a custom digital integrated circuit, such as an ASIC. However, in some applications, commercially available processors may be used. Instructions may be stored in any type of non-transitory computer readable medium or memory to configure the operation of the processor 40101. For example, instructions may be stored in read only memory (ROM) 40102, random access memory (RAM) 40103, hard drive 40105, removable media 40104 such as a universal serial bus (USB) drive, compact disc (CD) or digital Versatile Disc (DVD), floppy disk drive or any other desired electronic storage medium. Instructions may also be stored on an attached (or internal) hard drive 40105. One or more of memories 40102, 40103, 40104, and/or 40105 may include a higher-level operating environment, such as an operating system for advanced functionality and adaptability.

The hub 39100 may include various external controls. For example, there may be one or more user input devices (not shown) such as a remote control, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, microphone, camera, and the like. The hub may also include an optional display 40111 and/or an optional speaker 40115, and may include one or more output device controllers 40107, such as video or audio processors. The display may be an LCD display in one example, or any other known type of display. In one example, the hub may also include one or more lights, such as indicator lights. In another embodiment, user input/output functions may occur through display 40111, which may be configured to allow touch screen input in order to see additional output on display 40111.

One or more of memories 40102, 40103, 40104, and/or 40105 may include stored address location and display data location data. The address location may include an address identifying the hub 40100, which may be a unique identifier in one example. In one example, display data location data may be used by processor 40101 to format data for display on optional display 40111. This can include textual data, graphics, dynamic content and composition. According to at least one embodiment, the display data location data in memory may conform to a mark-up language such as HTML, XML, or the like. Although display 40111 is shown external to computing device 40100 in FIG. 40 , display 40111 and speakers 40115 may also be integrated into the same physical housing and/or structure as hub 39100. One or more of the components shown within hub 39100 may similarly be housed separately in another device and/or in another location with hub 39100.

Hub 39100 may include I/O modules 40109 that provide one or more inputs and outputs. Hub 39100 may also include one or more network interfaces (such as network interface circuitry, scanner interface circuitry, etc.) to communicate with external networks 39110, but may include any other computing device, in accordance with the examples discussed above with respect to Figure 39 , endpoint devices, servers, cloud servers, etc. The I/O module 39109 may be a wired interface, a wireless interface, or a combination of both. In one example, the hub 39100 may connect to one or more networks 39324, 39326, 39320, computing devices and /or endpoint devices 39202-39212. For example, the above connection may be via the Internet, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular modem or infrared. In one specific example, reduced power types of communications or low power radio signals (eg, Bluetooth Low Energy (also known as "Bluetooth LE," "Bluetooth Smart," or "BLE"), Zigbee, and ISM) may be used. to make the above connection. In one example, the ISM may be 315/433MHz ISM or NFC. Nonetheless, any other known wireless transmission method may be considered to form the above connection, including other efficient proprietary and custom protocols.

Hub 39100 may also include power supply 40113. The power supply 40113 allows the hub 39100 to operate the processor 40101 and various other components. The power source 40113 may include dedicated battery power, power over Ethernet, or an external power source such as an AC power connection or a combination thereof.

In a facility such as a store, multiple hubs 39100 may be provided depending on the number and location of endpoint devices 39202-39210. The hub 39100 can be placed on the facility ceiling or at the top of a shelf or merchantizing system. Each hub can be assigned to a predetermined set of endpoint devices 39202-39210, and a plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210 can be configured to transmit information to or receive information from an adjacent predetermined hub of the plurality of hubs 39100. Various data for a predetermined hub in the hub 39100. Each hub 39100 may be positioned near a predetermined set of endpoint devices 39202-39210 assigned to the hub 39100. It is also contemplated that the plurality of hubs may be configured to communicate with each other and to determine which endpoint device each hub should communicate with. The shorter distance between the endpoint devices 39202-39210 and the hub 39100 allows for reduced power settings required for information transmission/reception, as lower energy transfer protocols such as Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth LE, Zigbee or ISM can be implemented. This can help reduce the cost of the overall system.

Additionally, in this example, each of the plurality of hubs 39100 may be interconnected with a server, such as a facility server, such as an in-store server 39322 or a cloud 39320. The plurality of hubs 39100 can receive inventory information from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210 and transmit the inventory information to an in-store server, a facility server, or the cloud. The hub 39100 may also be configured to receive information from an in-store server, a facility server, or a cloud server and transmit the information to one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices 39202-39210.

According to the examples discussed herein, each of the plurality of hubs 39100 can receive information such as pricing information, marketing materials, and other product information from an in-store server, facility server, or cloud server, and communicate that information to a specific set of endpoint devices . Additionally, each of the hubs 39100 can be configured to send inventory received from a predetermined set of endpoint devices 39202-39210 to an in-store server, a facility server, or the cloud.

As described above, the hub 39100 can be configured to link to endpoint devices 39202-39212 and other systems that utilize data from endpoint devices 39202-39212. In one example, the hub 39100 can be configured to perform one or more of the following functions: (1) act as a data aggregator to accumulate data and then pass it along one or more networks, (2) receive, track and Calculate inventory levels, (3) perform various actions, such as generating alerts, depending on data received from endpoint devices 39202-39212, (4) effectively communicate various data to endpoint devices 39202-39212, (5) to Higher level protocols, such as WiFi, communicate data to the network/Internet at higher data rates, (6) monitor endpoint devices and report the status of endpoint devices.

The hub 39100 can receive and store data received from the end point devices 39202-39212, thus acting as a data aggregator, and can be configured to communicate the stored data to another computing device, server, or the Internet. For example, a hub may be configured to receive inventory data or customer information from endpoint devices as discussed herein. In another example, the hub may be configured to receive various log file data from endpoint devices 39202-39212.

In one example, the hub 39100 can transmit stored data upon request. In an alternate example, the hub 39100 may be configured to receive a predetermined amount of data prior to transmitting the data over the network. For example, the hub may manage when to alert a server of a problematic endpoint device based on a predetermined duration of lack of input from the endpoint device. In one example, once the endpoint device stops communicating with the hub, the hub can start a timer and wait a predetermined period of time before sending an error code or alert to the network and/or the appropriate human device. The hub can also be configured to aggregate information into a single file and send the single file to the network, for example by sending log files for the entire facility, rather than sending reports for each endpoint device individually. This helps reduce network traffic, thereby increasing the efficiency of the entire network.

In other examples, the hub 39100 may transmit data at predetermined times, or when certain conditions occur, such as low inventory conditions or theft conditions. In this way, for example, inventory data can be acted upon by a store inventory management system to schedule replenishment or the appropriate personnel can be notified of potential theft. Additionally, the hub 39100 may be configured to calculate and track the quantity of products based on inventory information received from the endpoint devices 39202-39212. For example, according to the above example, each of the endpoint devices 39202-39212 can collect inventory data, and the hub 39100 can receive inventory data from each of the endpoint devices 39202-39212 and count each of the shelves located in the shelves monitored by the hub 39101 number of products on it. For example, quantity and movement sensing device 39202, product safety window sensing device 39204, hooked product movement sensing device 39206 can provide the hub with a corresponding individual tally of products monitored by each device, and the hub 39100 can maintain A running tally of the inventory on each shelf being monitored.

Alternatively or additionally, the hub 39100 can be configured to track the location of the endpoint devices, which can be correlated to the number of products on the shelf, and the hub 39100 can be configured to determine how many products are on the shelf and/or facility. Where multiple hubs 39100 are employed, each hub 39100 may maintain a flowing inventory of inventory and may be configured to report inventory quantities to a centralized server such as in-store server 39322 or cloud 39320. The in-store server 39322 can then maintain a flowing inventory of product quantities within the facility and make decisions based on inventory to notify the appropriate personnel of product levels or when replenishment is required. Additionally, the company's total inventory can be calculated by routing all store inventory information to the client company server 39324. For example, the network may be configured to receive inventory information and send notifications once inventory levels reach a predetermined value.

According to the examples described herein, the hub 39100 itself may also perform various actions with respect to data received from one or more of the endpoint devices 202-212. For example, a hub can be programmed to detect theft, and various rules can be set to trigger an alarm based on theft activity. For example, if a possible theft is taking place, the hub may also be configured to send predetermined messages, such as alerts or text messages, to smartphones or handheld devices of one or more responsible parties (such as facility managers, clerks, stockists, etc.). In other examples, the hub 100 may communicate with another computing device and/or a facility PA system to broadcast messages based on one or more predetermined conditions. Additionally, the hub can be configured to play audio messages (with a local audio option) on attached speakers, for example, the hub 39100 can include an audio message player with speakers and audio playback circuitry that can be configured to play security sounds. In this way, a centralized hub can broadcast the security message, rather than configuring each product or commercial display to broadcast the security message. In other examples, the hub 100 may be connected to a store security system that may be programmed to locate an optional camera and initiate recording of video near a potential theft, similar to the examples discussed herein.

In another example, the hub 39100 can be configured to track the location of an endpoint device, which can be associated with possible theft. For example, a hub can be configured to detect unusual activity. Specifically, the hub can detect rapid and large movements of the pusher to detect abnormal shopping situations.

Additionally, indicator lights can be attached to the hub that illuminate when predetermined conditions occur. In particular, multiple colored indicator lights, such as green, yellow, and red, each of which can provide a different alert/meaning, eg, green for normal system operation, yellow for potential problems, and red for malfunction or theft. Certain color codes can also indicate a predetermined type of theft.

Additionally, various rules can be set to trigger alerts based on stock levels. For example, if inventory levels reach a certain threshold, the hub or network may also be configured to send predetermined messages, such as alerts or text message. In other examples, a hub or network may be provided with various rules that automate inventory actions, such as when to request replenishment or when to order additional products.

The hub 39100 may also be configured to communicate all data as discussed herein to the endpoint devices 39202-39210, such as pricing, marketing materials, product information, product location information, user descriptions, advertisements, discounts, promotions, deals, coupons, shopping Support/help information, discount information, updates to software, updates to operating systems, etc., and may be in the form of text, images, audio, video, data files, executable files, and the like. The hub 39100 may be configured to communicate any of the information discussed above to the endpoint devices 39202-39210, such as the interactive display 39209 or the continuous display shelf edge label device example described above with respect to Figures 28-37. For example, the hub 39100 may be configured to send or update data representing information about products on the shelf where the endpoint device is located, eg, current product information data for a user interface on a continuous display shelf edge label device or interactive display . The information may come from any of the various interconnected components in the wireless intelligent system network as discussed herein, such as facility servers, in-store servers, or the cloud.

The hub 39100 may also be configured to periodically update the endpoint devices 39202-39210 with current software, operating system, and/or updated content. Updates can be rolled out from the web, as described in this article. The hub can also see if the endpoint device is properly updated and report back to the network at a predetermined time to indicate whether the update was successful.

The hub may be configured to store the data received from the network for the endpoint devices discussed above, and to determine when to send the data out to the endpoint devices, such as at predetermined times of day, week, month, and the like. For example, the hub may be configured to send data to the endpoint devices during off-peak hours at the facility when the endpoint devices may not be in use. Thus, the hub can manage network traffic to the endpoint device without burdening the endpoint device with some non-critical data while the endpoint device is in use.

The Hub 39100 can be configured to communicate data to the network/Internet at higher data rates with higher level protocols such as Wi-Fi, allowing the Hub 39100 to send data bi-directionally and to receive and transmit data efficiently, making the system more Cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. In one example, the hub 39100 may be configured to communicate with storage systems or the Internet and other areas of the network at higher data rates at higher level protocols (eg, Wi-Fi), and may also be configured to communicate via low An energy transfer protocol communicates with a plurality of endpoint devices. In this way, the system can utilize low energy transfers to avoid having to provide a large amount of power to each of the endpoint devices without having to sacrifice the ability to efficiently collect data. This allows the hub 39100 to send data bidirectionally and to receive data efficiently, as discussed herein, helping the hub 39100 to send larger files such as usage log information, video, and data updates more quickly and efficiently.

The hub 39100 can also be configured to monitor endpoint devices and provide reports on the status of endpoint devices, allowing assessment of endpoint device health and reporting of problematic endpoint devices. In one example, the hub may also receive periodic updates or "heartbeats" from endpoint devices to indicate status. These heartbeats can be in the form of any of the transmissions discussed herein and can notify the Hub 39100 endpoint device to connect to the system and operate. Heartbeat transmissions may include various data related to the operation of the endpoint device, eg, device serial number, online status, battery life information, operating system/software version, update status information, network up and down time information, and the like. This helps monitor the network integrity of the system and ensures that endpoint devices are properly connected to the system. In one example, after an endpoint device is installed in a store or facility, a heartbeat transmitted from the endpoint device can indicate to the hub that the device is up and operational. In this way, if the hub does not receive a heartbeat from an endpoint device after a predetermined amount of time, the hub can send a message or alert to an in-store server, cloud, etc. to indicate that a particular endpoint device is not operating, and a person such as a technician can troubleshoot the problem or diagnose the condition. Additionally, the heartbeat from the endpoint device may include software and hardware information to allow personnel to determine if any updates to the endpoint device are required.

In an alternate example, the hub 39100 may be configured to diagnose certain errors and failures of endpoint devices. For example, if an endpoint device does not respond to a request for inventory data, the hub 39100 can alert the appropriate personnel through the various channels discussed herein. In other examples, the endpoint device may be configured to cause the hub 39100 to emit a sound if certain fault conditions or error codes are encountered, such as a low battery, a faulty sensor, or a faulty display. Upon receiving an indication of a fault condition, the hub 39100 can be configured to alert the appropriate personnel immediately or after a predetermined time, depending on the error or failure, and the likelihood that the problem can be resolved within the network. Personnel can then troubleshoot or replace the faulty endpoint device.

As discussed above with respect to the examples discussed above with respect to Figures 18-24, endpoint devices 39202-39212 may be configured to collect various data, such as inventory data and customer information. For example, as described herein, endpoint devices may be configured to collect various data about the store environment and configured to communicate the data together. Endpoint devices 39202-39212 may also be configured as display devices for displaying various data including still and moving images. For example, certain endpoint devices may be configured to display real-time data regarding product information, pricing, and/or marketing information to shoppers in accordance with the examples discussed above with respect to the continuous display shelf edge label devices of Figures 28-37. In the multi-hub example, the plurality of end point devices 39202-39212 may be configured to transmit inventory information to adjacent predetermined ones of the plurality of hubs, or to receive price information from predetermined ones of the plurality of hubs.

Another example endpoint device may be configured as an interactive tablet and/or display device 39209, an example of which is depicted in FIG. 41 . Interactive display device 39209 may be configured as a computing device and may include one or more of the various hardware and software components as discussed herein. For example, the interactive display 39209 may be provided with multi-touch screen technology and other inputs, such as a barcode scanner. The interactive display device 39209 may be configured to provide assistance to customers in making decisions about which products to purchase in order to provide retailers with an opportunity to bridge the gap between in-store and online retail.

For example, the interactive display 39209 can be configured to provide interactive product information to customers and/or shoppers at the edge of the shelf. The interface can offer many different views and a menu of products to choose from, or a product can be scanned to access the product information stored in it. The interactive display 39209 may also provide up-sells and cross-sells based on the customer's selections or previous selections, and provide relevant recommendations to the customer. For example, if a customer is interested in shoes, the interactive display may offer other similar selections of shoes or matching shirts or pants. The interactive display 39209 can also provide instant price comparisons and real-time updates. The interactive display 39209 may provide price matching or some kind of incentive for purchasing products in the store that day. Interactive display 39209 can provide online reviews to shoppers. In one example, the interactive display 39202 can also rely on social media and can provide shoppers with access to product recommendations from peers. In addition, the interactive display device 39209 can integrate the store's website in the store, and can be configured to check online availability of out-of-stock items, and can provide electronic or online ordering. The interactive display 39209 can also provide mailing list registration to customers and shoppers, where customers can enter contact information into the display and select topics of interest using the multi-touch touch screen. All of this information can be forwarded to the network via transmission to the hub and acted accordingly by the retailer.

Additionally, the interactive display 39209 can also be configured as a kiosk to sell products to customers and shoppers. For example, the interactive display can be provided with a transaction interface that can be configured to process payments. In this example, the printer can be connected to the interactive display or hub so that the interactive display or hub can issue a receipt to the customer. Transaction data can be stored on the interactive display and routed directly to the hub, or at predetermined times or upon request from the hub or network.

Additionally, log data from the interactive display (which may include transaction data, access data, customer information, etc.) may be collected, recorded, transmitted, and routed through the hub. Log file data may include data about the number of customers or shoppers using a particular interactive display, whether customers or shoppers viewed certain product information, and any other information that explains the effectiveness of the interactive display. This way, the network can further process and track the data for later viewing and analysis. For example, a retailer can determine which customers accessed which interactive displays at what time, and which customers made purchases, and which customers were unsure of the effectiveness of the interactive displays.

In one example, an endpoint device may include one or more location beacons 39207. The beacon 39207 may be configured to determine that a target device, such as a customer computing device, is within range and in some cases initiate communication with the device for purposes of advertising or providing shopping support/assistance. For example, the customer computing device may be a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, smartphone, or the like. In one or more arrangements, the customer computing device may be a personal computing device such as a mobile computing device (eg, a smartphone, tablet, wearable computer, augmented reality glasses, or any other type of mobile device) that belongs to A customer of a facility or store and/or used by a customer of a facility or store who is at or near the facility or store and/or is operated, controlled and/or otherwise associated with the facility or store at any other location in the union. A location beacon may be configured to transmit one or more signals, such as radio signals, that may be detected and/or received by devices located near and/or otherwise within a specified distance of the beacon . In one or more embodiments, a location beacon may implement Bluetooth Low Energy (also known as "Bluetooth LE," "Bluetooth Smart," or "BLE"), Zigbee, or ISM technology to transmit low-power radio signals. Beacons can communicate with the hub using any of the protocols discussed herein, including wired or wireless connections.

The particular signal(s) transmitted by the particular location beacon may include one or more characteristics, such as a unique identifier assigned to and/or otherwise connected to the particular location beacon, which may enable A location beacon can be identified by any device that obtains the particular signal(s) transmitted by the particular location beacon. Upon sensing a particular signal transmitted by a location beacon (which may, for example, be located at a particular location) and subsequently identifying the location beacon that transmitted the particular signal, the computing device may be able to infer that it is located at and/or near the particular location where the location beacon is located. Location.

For example, location beacons may be positioned at and/or near a facility or store, and may be specifically positioned at and/or near different areas of a facility or store, such as in a welcome area, at various product displays, or at waiting area etc. Beacons can be strategically placed in a retail environment to attract customers to certain displays or locations within a store or facility. Additionally, each location beacon may transmit radio signals that may be detected and/or received by other devices, such as client computing devices, that may enable these devices to determine their presence at the facility or store and/or or located at and/or near certain areas of the facility or store. Beacons may also be configured to track information about customer behavior, such as where customers travel within the store. This data can help assess the effectiveness of certain promotions and better understand customer presence and demographics in the store. Retailers can also track how often certain customers are at a facility or store and offer automated loyalty discounts or loyalty programs based on how often customers visit the store.

The beacons may also communicate with the hub to integrate its data, and receive information from the hub as discussed herein, such as advertising information, product information, or shopping information. For example, the hub may communicate with the client device and transmit various advertisements, discounts, promotions, deals or coupons, or provide shopping support/assistance or location information for particular products nearby. Hubs can also be configured to adjust beacon transmission to make beacons most effective within the store environment. For example, a hub can use real-time aggregated data from multiple co-located beacons and adjust its power output or RF radiation pattern to target specific areas of the store, fill RF gaps within the store, or use RSS ( received signal strength) data to triangulate the location of the target device for more accurate location information, allowing more relevant information to be pushed to that target.

In one example, beacons may exist in retail stores to send advertisements or discount information related to several specific brands, and the effectiveness of beacon advertisements may be assessed. When beacons throughout the store communicate with the hub, it can be determined whether a particular shopper allows and follows advertisements and discounts from brand "A" rather than from "B". As the system tracks shoppers through the store, decisions can be made regarding the strength of the content in the ad or discount presented to reinforce brand "A" or boost "B". Additionally, using aggregated data from beacons and other endpoint devices, it can be speculated that if a shopper is presented with an advertisement or discount for a Brand "A" product near the location of a Brand "A" product, and within a predetermined period of time, the endpoint device Brand "A" products may be indicated through the hub to be removed and presumably purchased. In this way, the effectiveness of beacon advertising can be directly assessed.

Referring back to FIG. 39 , a network (eg, in-store server 39322 , cloud 39320 , or external client server 39324 ) is configured to receive data from hub 39100 . In general, as discussed in further detail below, a network (eg, in-store server 39322, cloud 39320, or external client server 39324) may (1) store any data received or communicated to hub and endpoint devices, (2) Make decisions regarding data received and transmitted to hub and endpoint devices, (3) display any data received or transmitted to hub and endpoint devices, and (4) allow data received or transmitted to hub and endpoint devices Data is modified.

The network may store any data received or transmitted to hub and endpoint devices as discussed herein, such as inventory data, customer information, endpoint device status, usage and activity information, customer information, product information, pricing information, marketing materials, products Information, User Instructions, Rebate Information, Content, Software Updates, OS Updates, etc. In this way, the network can continuously provide updates on data received or transmitted to hub and endpoint devices, as well as continuously update internal web pages and any external web pages that display this information.

The network may also make various decisions regarding the data received and transmitted to the endpoint devices. In one example, various rules or algorithms may be provided to monitor inventory levels and send instructions to request additional inventory, and the network may be configured to request additional inventory for a particular area or location.

The network may also make decisions regarding the data received by the endpoint device when the particular alert 39330 was generated based on the received inventory data. In one example, the in-store server 39322 may be connected to one or more of store security systems, cameras, displays, light indicators, or PA systems. Upon receiving an indication of a possible theft situation that may be determined according to the examples discussed herein, the network may be configured to turn on a camera to capture an image of the potential theft, display a predetermined message to alert personnel, according to one or more examples discussed herein Alerts are provided via light indicators and/or via the PA system. The network may also be configured to send a message to the person to warn the person of possible theft according to the examples discussed above.

Additionally, in one example, the network may make decisions regarding the data sent to the endpoint devices. For example, various rules or algorithms may also be provided to update content, eg, interactive display data or electronic shelf display data, such as pricing information based on demand, supply, market conditions and/or time of day, week, month or year.

All information received at the network can be viewed by personnel at the facility or company with appropriate network credentials. In one example, a portal can be web-based and can provide different views and decompositions of information provided by one or more hubs. For example, a portal can provide trending theft from a particular endpoint device, facility or region. In this way, different people can view the portal and can see trends such as theft of certain products, theft in certain areas, or theft at certain times of the year.

Additionally, a facility or company can view and manage inventory levels through the portal. The portal can also provide inventory intelligence to retailers, allowing retailers to better manage product trends and predict events from an inventory replenishment perspective. This improves the ability to stock products within a store or facility and can be used to alert inventory personnel to prepare inventory for replenishment purposes.

Portals can also provide real-time data on network integrity. For example, the portal may provide information about whether endpoint devices at the monitored facility are online or offline. In particular, the portal can track and receive periodic updates or heartbeats from endpoint devices. For example, if the hub does not receive a heartbeat from one or more of the endpoint devices, the hub can send a message or alert over the network to indicate that a particular endpoint device is not operational, and this information can then be viewed on the portal. This can help personnel monitor various facilities and hire the right personnel to diagnose and troubleshoot faulty endpoint devices and monitor the system as a whole.

Additionally, the portal may provide shopping activity data based on transactions that occurred and other data received from endpoint devices. The portal may also provide shopping data from certain facilities on certain product types and certain endpoint devices. For example, portals can provide information to help retailers understand how marketing certain products are doing. In particular, within a store environment, where a product is located in more than one location within a store or facility, it is often difficult to understand where a customer decides to make a purchase. Endpoint devices can provide product location information so that retailers can understand which locations and/or displays are most effective in inducing purchases.

Any data provided on the portal can be aggregated and extracted, depending on how the data is viewed. Portal software can be configured to provide various outputs such as tables, graphs or graphs to illustrate this information. Additionally, the portal software may include various search capabilities for enabling retailers to search by store, facility, region, product and product type, theft, pricing information, sales volume or specific endpoint device/endpoint device type, and the like.

All information received at the network can be modified by appropriate personnel, such as those with appropriate network credentials. For example, appropriate personnel may modify data such as display or pricing information provided to endpoint devices at portal 39326.

Examples herein may provide a centralized wireless store intelligence system that, for example, may be configured to integrate anti-theft, manage shelf inventory, provide shopper price displays and marketing messages, provide interactive shopping tools, all under one system, to provide a single Digital In-Facility Strategies. The examples provided herein can provide a mechanism for maintaining and viewing inventory data in one location, and provide a centralized mechanism for theft reduction management and inventory data. Furthermore, the system provides a method for homogenizing the data so it can be considered on a large scale. The system can also provide users with a consistent look and feel and provide an enhanced user experience.

Although in some of the examples discussed above, the processing and display of various data collected from endpoint devices is discussed with respect to certain computing devices, such as hubs and/or servers, it is contemplated that any computing device within a network may The processing and display of various data collected from endpoint devices is accomplished at the device, including any known computing device not discussed or described herein. Furthermore, it is also contemplated that any hub may also be configured as any endpoint device as discussed herein.

As discussed below with respect to the examples in Figures 42 and 43, the merchandising system may also be configured to provide continuous labels across the bottom of the shelf, on the product itself, or across both the product and the screen on the bottom of the shelf, to allow dynamic messages to be sent to customers. 42 shows an example block diagram of a system for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. In one example, one or more components of Figure 42 may be implemented by computing device 27100 in Figure 27 and/or one or more of the devices shown in Figures 2a-12. In this example, a system 4200 is shown with multiple continuous display shelf edge label devices operating together. In this example, there are four consecutive display shelf edge label devices. However, as discussed below, it is contemplated that any number of shelf edge label devices may be used, depending on the size of the shelf and product.

Each continuous display shelf edge label device includes a single display area 4210A-4210D oriented along the entire edge of the shelves 4230A-4230D. Also, in this example, shelves 4230A-B hold products 4260A-4260H, where 4260A-B may be of a first type, 4260C-D may be of a second type, 4260E-F may be of a third type, etc., or any combination. Shelves 4230C-D hold products 4280A-H, where 4280A-B can be of a first type, 4280C-D can be of a second type, 4280E-F can be of a third type, etc., or any combination thereof. Products 4260A-4260H and 4280A-H are each packaged in packages 4250A-4250H and 4270A-4270H, respectively.

In one example, displays 4210A-4210D may be embedded in their respective shelves 4230A-4230D. The shelves may be formed of any suitable material, and in one example, the shelves may be formed of a plastic material. This allows power to be sent through the air and through the shelf to power the packages 4250A-4250H and 4270A-4270H. Additionally, in addition to the displays 4210A-4210D, the plastic shelves may allow the passage of electronic signals and may be embedded with other electronic components. This allows additional hardware to be installed and integrated into commercial display systems, such as the various components discussed above and herein. Additionally, plastic shelves can also be formed to be lightweight for ease of handling, making it easier to clean, transport, stock or move, for example if a product is lost behind the shelf, etc.

Packages 4250A-4250H and 4270A-4270H can include electronic display screens or LEDs. In one example, the electronic display screen or LEDs may be on or embedded in the package. In other examples, packages 4250A-4250H and 4270A-4270H may be provided with a bistable or electrophoretic display to display any desired characters or images. In some examples, packages 4250A-4250H and 4270A-4270H may consist primarily of displays, such that most of the package surface may display any desired characters or images.

In one example, a single sequential display 4210A-4210D may be formed from multiple displays. For example, each single continuous display 4210A-4210D may include two digital displays 4220A-H, one for each respective type of product for sale. Each display 4220A-H can provide information about the product type above the user interface. For example, displays may provide information on products 4260A-B, displays provide information on products 4260C-D, displays 4220C provide information on products 4260E-F, displays 4220D provide information on products 4260G-H, and displays 4220E provide information on products 4260G-H Information on 4280A-B, Display 4220F provides information on Products 4280C-D, Display 4220G provides information on Products 4280E-F, Display 4220H provides information on Products 4280G-H. Displays 4210C-4210D may also display additional information, such as advertisements and promotions. In addition, displays 4210C-4210D can be configured as a user interface such that, for example, a user can obtain additional interactive product information at the edge of the shelf according to the example discussed above with respect to FIG. 41, such as the user interface can be provided with many different views and can The selected product menu, or the product can be scanned to access the product information stored therein.

Continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D can communicate with each other, with products 4260A-H and 4280A-H and corresponding packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H. For example, continuous display shelf edge label device 4210A can communicate with packages 4250A-D, continuous display shelf edge label device 4210B can communicate with packages 4250E-H, continuous display shelf edge label device 4210C can communicate with packages 4270A-D, and continuously display Shelf edge label device 4210D may communicate with package 4270E-H. Although illustratively shown as wireless communication, the transmission path between the continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D and the packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H may be through the network 210 or in accordance with the examples disclosed with respect to FIG. 39 and/or Or a wired communication path in some other way. Additionally, information such as pricing information, product data, and advertisements may be provided to the continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D and packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H through the network and hub 39100 discussed above with respect to FIG. 39 .

In accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, various continuous display shelf edge label devices may operate in unison to provide customers with additional information, such as product information, pricing information, discount information, advertisements, and product logos. Arrays of continuous display shelf edge label devices can be created by placing the continuous display shelf edge label devices in a side-by-side orientation (4210A and 4210B or 4210C and 4210D), stacked on top of each other like shelves (4210A and 4210C or 4210B and 4210D). Configurations, which can be configured to be grouped together to display a unified image or video. In the illustrative example of Figure 42, there are four consecutive display shelf edge label devices arranged in a 2x2, two rows and two columns array of consecutive display shelf edge label devices. However, any of a variety of additional arrangements may be implemented, including but not limited to 6x1, 4x1, 3x4, 3x3, and 4x4 configurations.

In addition, a variety of continuous display shelf edge label devices can work with Packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H to provide additional information or draw the customer's attention. For example, selection packages from 4250A-H and 4270A-H can be illuminated to facilitate selection of products, wherein the illumination can be coordinated by continuously displaying shelf edge label devices 4210-4210D. Additionally, complementary products can light up their packaging using similar or complementary visuals. In one example, packages 4250A-F may be lit continuously; packages 4250G-H may be lit during selected time intervals; packages 4270A-D may be continuously displayed when shelf edge label device 4210C detects the presence of a customer through proximity sensors illuminated; packaging 4270E-F may be illuminated when a customer interacts with one or more of displays 4220A-H when configured as a user interface; when a change in product information (such as price) is performed at the user interface The package 4270G-H can be illuminated when or when information is pushed out over the network as discussed herein.

In one example, the frontmost package and the forward facing surface of the frontmost package of packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H may also be determined such that only the forward facing surface of the frontmost package is displaying information. For example, the front and back of a plurality of shelves may be determined, and a set of frontmost packages may be determined from a plurality of packages. The foremost package may be configured to form a continuous display, and further, the forward facing surface of the foremost package may be configured to display a desired image. Additionally, it is also contemplated that any of the multiple surfaces of the package may have a digital display of the package, such that the package may be placed on a shelf in any orientation to form part of a continuous display.

In accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, various continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A can communicate with products 4260A-D, continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210B can communicate with products 4260E-H, and continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210C can communicate with products 4260E-H. In communication with products 4280A-D, and continuous display shelf edge label device 4210D can communicate with products 4280E-H. Although illustratively shown as wireless communication, the transmission path between the continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D and the packages 4250A-H and 4270A-H may be from the hub 39100 through the network according to any of the examples discussed herein 210 and/or in some other way a wired communication path.

The various continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D can work with products 4260A-H and 4280A-H to provide additional information or attract the customer's attention. In one example, the continuous display shelf edge label device may send a trigger to the product above the continuous display shelf edge label device, the trigger energizing the product. In a second example, the products 4260A-B are electronic devices, and the continuous display shelf edge label device 4210A can communicate a trigger to the products 4260A-B to power up the display of the electronic device. The continuous display shelf edge label device 4210A may communicate such a trigger at selected time intervals when an interaction between the customer and the display 4220A is detected, or when the continuous display shelf edge label device 4210A detects the presence of a customer through a proximity sensor. Additionally, the continuous display shelf edge label devices 4210A-D and products 4260A-H and 4280A-H may be powered by one or more hubs 39100 or the network described herein. Once the displays of the electronic products 4260A-B have been powered up in response to a trigger from the continuous display shelf edge label device 4210A, the customer may be able to interact with the displays of the electronic products 4260A-B through the display 4220A when configured as a user interface. When configured as a user interface, a user may interact with display 4220A using any of the methods provided with reference to FIG. 27 . For example, user input on display 4220A may be communicated to the displays of products 4260A-B and mirrored on the displays of products 4260A-B. Display 4220A may also be updated with data received from products 4260A-B in response to user input, and this interaction may be repeated one or more times. This feature is discussed in detail below with reference to Figures 44a-d.

43 shows an example block diagram of a system for communicating and distributing content in accordance with one or more illustrative aspects of the present disclosure. The example in FIG. 43 may have similar features and functionality as the example discussed above with respect to FIG. 42 . In one example, one or more components of FIG. 43 may be implemented by computing device 100 in FIG. 27 , one or more of the devices shown in FIGS. 2a-12 , and/or the examples discussed with respect to FIG. 39 . In this example, a single continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 is shown. The continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 may be provided with any number of displays. In this example, the continuous display shelf label device 43001 may be provided with two displays, which may or may not also be configured as a user interface, and may be configured similarly to the example discussed above with respect to FIG. 42 . Display 43002 provides information about products 43006A and 43006B, and can also display static or dynamic advertisements 43004. For example, the background of display 43002 may display logos representing the manufacturers of products 43006A and 43006B. Display 43003 can provide information about products 43007A and 43007B. Additionally, the background of display 43003 may display logos representing the manufacturers of products 43007A and 43007B, wherein the logos displayed on the background of display 43003 may be different from the logos displayed on the background of display 43002. However, it is contemplated that the background of displays 43002 and 43003 may display additional information, such as still images or streaming video of products 43006A-B and 43007A-B, promotional content, messages of goodwill, advertisements, or any relevant information.

Products 43006A and 43006B are packaged in packages 43004A and 43004B, respectively. Packages 43004A and 43004B can each be embedded with electronic display screens or LEDs. Products 43006A and 43006B can be powered by receivers or transceivers within packages 43004A and 43004B. In one example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 can send a trigger to products 43006A-B and 43007A-B that powers up the displays of products 43006A-B and 43007A-B. The continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 may select the Such triggers are communicated at regular intervals. It is also envisioned that the content may be pushed out to the display continuously displaying the shelf edge label device 43001 and the products 43006A-B and 43007A-B through the hub 39100 or network as discussed herein. Additionally, the hub 39100 or network discussed herein may be configured to automatically or when certain conditions occur (such as when a customer is detected within the vicinity of the continuous display shelf edge label device 43001) Power up the display of Products 43006A-B and 43007A-B.

Once powered up, the displays of products 43006A and 43006B can be dynamically configured with various static or streaming messages through the continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 or the network. In one example, the display of product 43006A may display an advertisement, and the display of product 43006B displays logos representing the manufacturers of products 43006A and 43006B. Displays on products 43006A and 43006B may alternatively include promotional content, seasonal greetings, and/or general messages for customers. Products 43007A and 43007B can be powered by the receiver or transceiver in packages 43005A-B, respectively. Packages 43005A-B each embed an electronic display screen or LED. Displays for products 43007A and 43007B can be dynamically configured by continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 to display still or streaming video or images including information about the product, manufacturer, promotional content, greeting messages and/or advertisements (shown). )Information.

Additionally, the displays on products 43006A-B and 43007A-B can be interactive. Continuous Display Shelf Edge Label Device 43001 can dynamically configure the display of Products 43006A-B and 43007A-B. For example, promotional content may be dynamically displayed on one or more of products 43006A-B and 43007A-B when the presence of a customer is detected. The customer can then interact with the display of one of products 43006A-B and 43007A-B through display 43002 or 43003. For example, user input on display 43002 may be communicated to the display of product 43006A and mirrored on the display of product 43006A. Display 43002 can then be updated with data received from product 43006A in response to user input, and the interaction can be repeated one or more times. This feature is discussed in detail below with reference to Figures 44a-d.

Products 43006A-B and 43007A-B are packaged in packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B, respectively. The displays of packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B may be powered by display shelf edge label device 43001. In one example, the displays of packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B can be powered continuously over the air. Continuous power over the air can be achieved via a highly resonant wireless power transfer process. Coils with special drive wires can be placed in the base platform of the plastic shelving unit that holds the packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B and also houses the display shelf edge label device 43001. Small, thin coiled antenna wires may be placed in the walls of each product package 43004A-B and 43005A-B. Packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B can each intercept a portion of the power wirelessly transmitted by the coiled wires via the coiled antenna wires in each package. The intercepted power can then be used to operate displays or LEDs on the product packaging or displays on products 43006A-B and 43007A-B. In a second example, the continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 can send a trigger to one or more of the packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B that powers up the displays of the packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B. The continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 may select the Such triggers are communicated at regular intervals.

Once powered up, the displays of packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B can be dynamically configured with various still or streaming images or videos by continuously displaying shelf edge label device 43001. In one example, packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B can be dynamically configured by continuously displaying shelf edge label device 43001 to mirror displays 43002 and 43003 by displaying logos representing the manufacturers of products 43006A-B and 43007B, respectively. In another example, packages 43004A-B may be dynamically configured by display shelf edge label device 43001 to display additional information about products 43006A and 43006B along with the logo (here, the additional information is that the price is only for a "limited time"). Packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B may display additional or alternative information, such as streaming video of the product within the package, related products, advertisements, or any related information thereof.

Although the displays for each of the user interface 43002, products 43006A and 43006B, and packages 43004A and 43004B are shown as being independent, the continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 may dynamically configure one or more of the foregoing components to each Display part of a logo, product or any other desired visual content. In this manner, a larger display can be distributed among all or any combination of user interface 43002, products 43006A and 43006B, and packages 43004A and 43004B. For example, packages 43005A-B collectively display the logo of the manufacturer of products 43007A-B. In lieu of the logo, streaming video of the product can also be distributed across packages 43005A-B. Similarly, larger displays can be distributed among all or any combination of Display 43003, Products 43007A-B, and Packages 43005A-B. In one example, a continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 may be displayed across displays 43001 and 43003 and the product and package distribution corresponding to these user interfaces. Thus, a combined visual display would be distributed among all or any combination of user interfaces 43002 and 43003, products 43006A-B and 43007A-B, and packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B, where each component can simultaneously output a visual display different parts of.

The continuous display shelf edge label device 43001 can also dynamically coordinate with one or more additional continuous display shelf edge label devices to create a dynamic display of the user interface, product, and packaging across multiple continuous display shelf edge label devices. Thus, a still image or streaming video of the product, the manufacturer's logo or any related content will be distributed among multiple successive shelf edge label devices and one or more user interfaces corresponding to each successive shelf edge label device , distributed between one or more products and one or more packages.

In one example, the continuous display shelf edge label 43001 or other sensors placed near the continuous display shelf edge label 43001 can detect the presence of a customer through a proximity sensor. Continuous display shelf edge labels 43001 may then send triggers to packages 43004A-B and adjacent or surrounding continuous display shelf edge labels. Adjacent and/or surrounding continuous display shelf edge labels may then send activation triggers to their corresponding packages. The Continuous Display Shelf Edge Label 43001 can then distribute streaming video in the Continuous Display Shelf Edge Label in and around itself. Each successive video showing shelf edge labeling can be further broken down into its distribution between packs. Alternatively, the continuous display shelf edge label 43001 can control the distribution among all surrounding continuous display shelf edge labels and their corresponding packages.

Displays or continuous displays formed by package and shelf edge displays allow dynamic resizing of desired messages in retail environments. For example, when the planogram changes, the dimensions of the shelf edge labels can change. In addition, various displays may either be formed into one large screen to display one continuous message, or may be divided into various screens to display various messages. In addition, the display or continuous display formed by the packaging and shelf edge displays may be paid by the retailer by renting space to the distributor of the product.

Continuous display of shelf edge labels can be further integrated with software applications. For example, a user may download and install software applications on mobile devices, such as cellular devices. A software application may be associated with one or more retailers, and a user may use the software application to catalog one or more items that the user wishes to purchase or view. For example, a software application may be associated with a grocery store, and a user may use the software application to store a grocery list. A software application may additionally or alternatively be associated with the electronic retailer, and a user may use the software application to store a list of electronic devices that the user wishes to analyze.

The user may launch the software application upon entering a designated location, such as a grocery store or electronics retailer. The software application can scan the shopping list and determine the location of each item on the shopping list in relation to continuous display shelf edge labeling devices placed throughout the store. Such information may instead be stored by the software application upon initial listing entry made by the user (ie, before the user launches the software application in the grocery store). The software application can then establish wireless communication with the one or more continuous display shelf edge label devices that keep the one or more items on the shopping list as the user approaches the item.

For example, the software application may determine that the first item on the user's list is located in the first aisle, on the first plastic shelf housing the first continuous display shelf edge label device. The software application can track the user's location within the store and detect when the user enters the first aisle. The software application can then establish a wireless connection to the first continuous display shelf edge label device. When the user enters the first aisle, the software application may send a signal to the first continuous display shelf edge label device. The first continuous display shelf edge label device may then utilize the continuous display shelf edge label device itself, the surrounding continuous display shelf edge label device, one or more package and/or product displays on the continuous display shelf edge label device, and/or Surrounding continuous display of one or more package and/or product displays on the shelf edge label device initiates a predetermined display. For example, continuous display of shelf edge label 43001 can utilize a chase light effect to guide the user to product 43006A. This may include displaying various graphical messages or images, such as arrows, to help guide the user to the first item on the list. Additionally, packaging that encloses items that match the first item on the user's list may be activated to draw the user's attention. Alternatively or additionally, the continuous display shelf edge label may be provided with a speaker which may alert the user with an audible alarm to direct the user to the item on the listing.

The first continuous display shelf edge label device may initiate an integrated visual display when a user entering the first aisle is detected. This integrated visual display will be distributed between all or any combination of user interfaces 43002 and 43003, products 43006A-B and 43007A-B, and packages 43004A-B and 43005A-B, where each component can output a visual display simultaneously different parts. The packaging of complementary items can also be activated in a coordinated manner. For example, a retailer may use a coordinating display to up-sell or cross-sell different products based on the retailer's preferences (such as directing a user to the retailer's generic brand in place of a brand name item on the user's listing).

As the user moves through the different aisles, the software application can continue to track the user's location within the store. When a user enters an aisle, the software application can cross-reference items on the user's list with items stored in the aisle. If one or more items on the user's list, or any items complementary to those on the user's list, are stored in the user's current aisle, the software application may establish a continuous display shelf edge with one or more of the user's current aisle The wireless communication of the tag device and the appropriate display can be enabled to direct the user to the item on the list or a complementary item. Complementary items can be items that are usually purchased together. For example, if a user's shopping list indicates that the user is about to buy peanut butter, a visual display can draw the user's attention to the shelf holding the bread. Complementary items can also be similar items, a retailer's house brand item, an item the retailer is trying to upsell, and so on.

Figures 44a-d illustrate exemplary states of a screen of an electronic product and display of a user interface within a shelf edge label continuously displayed. A portion of the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 has been configured as a user interface 44002a. The continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 can work in unison with the product 44003 to provide additional information to the customer or to attract the customer's attention. In Figures 44a-d, only one exemplary continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 and one product 44003 are shown. However, any number of continuously displayed shelf edge labels and products may be configured to interact as described herein.

In one example, Product 44003 is an electronic device with a digital display screen. Continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 may communicate a trigger to product 44003 to power up display 44004a of electronic device 44003. Alternatively, the display 44004a of the electronic device 44003 may remain powered all the time or continuously. The continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 may be available at selected time intervals when an interaction between a customer and the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 is detected, or when the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 detects the presence of a customer through a proximity sensor Communicate such triggers. Alternatively, Product 44003 may be powered by one or more Hubs 39100 or the network as discussed herein.

In addition to sending a trigger to the electronic product 44003, the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 may also configure at least a portion of the display of the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 as a user interface 44002a. Once the display 44004a of the electronic product 44003 has been powered up in response to a trigger from the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 (or one or more of the hubs 39100 or the network), the display 44004a may display a default screen. This default screen can also be replicated on user interface 44002a. The default screen may include an icon that, when selected by the user, displays the main menu screen. The default screen may additionally or alternatively include advertisements, other promotional content, or information about the electronic product 44003. The customer may then interact with the display 44004a of the electronic product 44003 through the user interface 44002a (eg, using any of the methods provided with reference to Figure 27).

If the user selects an icon displayed on the default home screen through the user interface 44002a, the selection may be communicated from the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001 to the electronic product 44003. Display screen 44004a of electronic product 44003 may then transition to display screen 44004b, which displays the main menu screen, in response to the user selection. The electronics 44003 may then transmit the data required for displaying the main menu screen to the user interface 44002a. Alternatively, this data may already be stored in the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001. In response to receiving the data, display in user interface 44002a may then transition to display in user interface 44002b. The user interface 44002b now mirrors the display screen 44004b of the product 44003 by showing the same main menu screen as the electronic display 44004b. The user can then select an item from the home screen menu (currently displayed on display screen 44004b of product 44003 and the display in user interface 44002b) through user interface 44002b. The user's selection may be communicated to the electronic product 44003 from the user interface 44002b. In response to receiving the user's selection, electronic display 44004b on product 44003 may switch to electronic display 44004c. Electronic display 44004c displays graphics associated with the item selected by the user through user interface 44002b. The data required for the display of the graphics associated with the selected item can then be sent from the electronic product 44003 to the user interface 44002b. Data may be communicated via the continuous display shelf edge label device 44001. In response to receiving the data, the display on user interface 44002b may then transition to the display displayed on user interface 44002c. User interface 44002c now mirrors electronic display 44004c by displaying graphics associated with the selected item. This type of interaction can continue until terminated by the user.

In one aspect, the present disclosure includes an exhibit management system having a mechanism that can be configured to move in response to removal of a product from the exhibit management system. The display management system may additionally have sensors that output motion data in response to movement of the mechanism. Additionally, the display management system may have control circuitry that receives motion data and communicates the motion data to a remote processor if the motion data exceeds a threshold. Additionally, the display management system may have a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions executable by a remote processor to calculate the current location of the facility from the athletic data, and based on the facility's location to calculate the The number of products removed by the display management system.

In another aspect, the present disclosure includes an exhibit management system that may have a mechanism configured to move in response to removal of a product from the exhibit management system. The display management system may further have sensors that output motion data in response to movement of the mechanism. Additionally, the display management system may have transmitter circuitry that communicates motion data to a remote processor, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions executable by the remote processor to compute the mechanism current position and calculate the product removal pattern.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure includes non-transitory computer-readable media comprising computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, can be configured to The connected sensor receives sensor data. Additionally, sensor data may be used to calculate the number of products removed from one or more display management systems, and may be used to detect product removal patterns based on the number of products removed from the display management system.

In another aspect, methods and apparatus are provided for providing information along a retailer's shelf edge. On a display configured to be oriented along an edge of the retailer's shelf, a first user interface is provided that includes first information about a first product on the shelf. At least one second user interface is provided on the display, the second user interface including at least one second information about at least one second product on the shelf. A person is allowed to edit parameters of the first user interface and/or the at least one second user interface. The parameter may include at least one of: the size of the user interface on the display, the shape of the user interface on the display, and the location of the user interface on the display. The first information and the at least one second information may be simultaneously output to the display.

In one example, a system may include a plurality of endpoint devices associated with product shelves configured to display products, and a plurality of hubs each positioned adjacent to one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices. One or more of the plurality of end-point devices may be configured to detect inventory information and communicate the inventory information to a predetermined adjacent hub of the plurality of hubs, and one or more of the plurality of end-point devices The device may be configured to receive and display price information or product information from a predetermined one of the plurality of hubs. The plurality of hubs may each be configured to perform one or more of the following, receiving inventory information from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices, providing one or more depending on the received inventory information: alerts, communicate inventory information to the network, receive price information and product information, and communicate price information and product information to one or more of the plurality of end-point devices, communicate with the plurality of end-point devices via a low energy transmission protocol two endpoint devices, and in one example, the low energy transport protocol may be one or more of Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, or ISM.

Endpoint devices may include one or more of the following: product door sensors, hook security sensors, inventory measurement pusher sensors, electronic shelf label displays, or interactive touch screen displays. One or more of the endpoint devices are configured to send periodic transmissions indicating status to a predetermined one of the plurality of hubs. One or more of the endpoint devices may include a product pusher and may be configured to detect the position of the product pusher.

The plurality of hubs may be configured to calculate the quantity of products based on inventory information received from one or more endpoint devices. The number of products calculated by the plurality of hubs can be received by the network, and the network can calculate the number of products in the facility. The plurality of hubs may be configured to transmit one or more of a message, audio or visual indicator upon detection of a predetermined rate of product displacement from the product shelf. The plurality of hubs may be configured to transmit one or more of a message, audio or visual indicator upon detection of a predetermined level of product. Multiple hubs can be configured to aggregate and accumulate inventory information and transmit inventory information to the network. Multiple hubs can be configured to monitor endpoint devices and report the status of endpoint devices. At least one of the plurality of hubs can be configured to track the location of one or more of the endpoint devices, and at least one of the plurality of hubs can be configured to be based on the location of the one or more of the endpoint devices Changes are made to detect the possibility of theft, or to calculate inventory levels based on the location of one or more of the endpoint devices. The plurality of hubs may each include a series of indicator lights configured to illuminate when predetermined conditions occur. Multiple hubs can be configured to update the software or operating system of the endpoint devices. The plurality of hubs may be configured to transmit selected information to the endpoint devices at predetermined times.

A portal may also be provided for viewing inventory information received from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices and for modifying price and product information communicated to the one or more endpoint devices. The network may be configured to receive inventory information, and the network may be configured to request additional inventory based on the inventory information received from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices. The network may be configured to receive inventory information and send notifications once the inventory level reaches a predetermined value.

In another example, a method may include one or more of: providing a plurality of endpoint devices associated with product shelves configured to display products; providing a plurality of hubs, and placing the plurality of hubs in each of the plurality of endpoint devices is positioned adjacent to one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices; configuring one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices to transmit inventory information to a predetermined adjacent hub of the plurality of hubs, or configured to receive price or product information from a predetermined one of the plurality of hubs; configuring each of the plurality of hubs to receive inventory information from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices, configuring for communicating the inventory information to the network, being configured to calculate the quantity of the product based on the received inventory information, communicating the quantity of the product to the network, and being configured to communicate with the plurality of endpoint devices via a low energy transfer protocol; the network is configured to receiving information and transmitting information to the plurality of hubs and configured to calculate the total number of products within the facility, and configuring the network to receive price information and transmit the price information to one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices .

Additionally, the method may include configuring one or more of the endpoint devices as one or more of: product door sensors, hook security sensors, inventory measurement pusher sensors, electronic shelf label displays, and touch screen displays, the endpoint One or more of the devices are configured to send periodic transmissions to a predetermined one of the plurality of hubs, indicating the status. One or more of the endpoint devices may include a product pusher, and the method may include detecting the position of the product pusher.

The method may also include one or more of configuring the plurality of hubs to transmit one or more of a message, audio, or visual indicator upon detecting a predetermined rate at which the product is being displaced from the product shelf , to aggregate and accumulate inventory information and transmit inventory information; configure the low-energy transport protocol as one or more of Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, or ISM; configure the plurality of hubs to monitor endpoint devices and report a state; configuring at least one of the plurality of hubs to track the location of one or more of the endpoint devices; configuring at least one of the plurality of hubs to, based on the location of the one or more of the endpoint devices Changes to detect the possibility of theft, or calculate inventory levels based on the location of one or more of the endpoint devices; provide for each of the plurality of hubs a series of indicators configured to illuminate when a predetermined condition occurs configuring the hub to update the software or operating system of the endpoint device; configuring the plurality of hubs to update the software or operating system of the endpoint device; and configuring the plurality of hubs to send selected information to endpoint device.

The method may further include: providing a portal for viewing inventory information received from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices or for modifying price and product information communicated to the one or more endpoint devices; configuring the network to receive inventory information, and configuring the network to request additional inventory based on the inventory information received from one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices; configuring the network to receive the inventory information, and once the inventory level A notification is sent when a predetermined value has been reached.

Another example method may include one or more of: configuring a network to receive and transmit information to a plurality of hubs; configuring one or more of the endpoint devices to transmit inventory information to the plurality of hubs a predetermined proximity hub of the plurality of hubs or to receive price or product information from a predetermined hub of the plurality of hubs; each of the plurality of hubs is configured to receive inventory information from one or more of the plurality of end point devices, the inventory communicating information to the network, calculating the quantity of the product based on the received inventory information, communicating the quantity of the product to the network, receiving price information and communicating the price information to one or more of the plurality of endpoint devices; and via the low energy A transport protocol communicates with the plurality of endpoint devices.

In one aspect, a system may be provided for forming a continuous display between one or more electronic label devices positioned along a product shelf and a plurality of packages stored on the product shelf, wherein the plurality of packages include embedded displays. The electronic tag device may be configured to receive streaming video and distribute the streaming video between the one or more electronic tag devices and the plurality of packages. The one or more electronic label devices may send activation triggers to the plurality of packages. An activation trigger may be sent when one or more of the electronic tag devices detect the presence of a user via a proximity sensor. The plurality of packages may each enclose a product, and the product may include a display screen. The one or more electronic tag devices may send an activation trigger to a display screen of the packaged product in each of the plurality of packages. When a user interacts with the one or more electronic tag devices, an activation trigger for a display screen of a product of one or more packages of the plurality of packages may be sent. The user can interact with the product's display screen through one or more electronic tag devices.

In one example, the system may include a second product shelf vertically adjacent to the product shelf and a second electronic label device positioned along the bottom of the second product shelf, the second electronic label device including one or more electronic displays . The one or more electronic displays of the product shelf and the one or more electronic displays of the second product shelf may form a continuous display. The system may also include a second plurality of packages coupled to the second electronic label device, wherein each of the second plurality of packages is stored on the second product shelf and includes an embedded display. The one or more electronic displays of the product shelf, the one or more electronic displays of the second product shelf, the plurality of displays, and the second plurality of embedded displays may form a continuous display. The electronic tag device can output streaming video to a continuous display if the presence of the user is detected by the proximity sensor. In one example, the foremost package in the package and the forward facing surface of the foremost package may be determined such that only the forward facing surface of the foremost package forms a continuous display.

In one aspect, a system is provided for forming a continuous display along: a first electronic label device positioned along the bottom of a first product shelf, a second electronic label positioned along the bottom of a second product shelf A device, a first set of packages stored on a first product shelf and including a first set of electronic displays, and a second set of packages stored on a second product shelf and including a second set of electronic displays. The first electronic label device may be configured to distribute streaming video among each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays. Each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays may be configured to simultaneously output different portions of the streaming video. The forward facing surfaces of the foremost package and the foremost package in the first and second group of packages may be determined such that only the forward facing surface of the foremost package forms a continuous display.

In one aspect, a method is provided for: displaying a first video on a first electronic label device embedded along the bottom of a first product shelf; on a second electronic label embedded along the bottom of a second product shelf The second video is displayed on the labeling device; the first activation trigger is sent to the first set of packages stored on the first product shelf and positioned at the front of the first product shelf by the first electronic labeling device; by the second electronic label The device sends a second activation trigger to a second set of packages stored on the second product shelf and positioned at the front of the second product shelf; through the first electronic label device, at the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device , distribution of streaming video between each of the first set of packages and the second set of packages; and simultaneous display by each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of packages and the second set of packages Different portions of the video are streamed such that each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of packages, and the second set of packages form a continuous display. The first electronic tag device may transmit the first activation trigger in response to detecting the presence of the user through the proximity sensor. The first electronic label device can detect the presence of the user through the proximity sensor and send a trigger to the second electronic label device. The second electronic tag device may transmit a second activation trigger in response to receiving the trigger from the first electronic tag device.

In one aspect, a merchandise display system is provided, comprising: a plurality of shelves, each shelf including a shelf digital display positioned along an edge of a retailer's shelf to form a plurality of shelf digital displays; and a plurality of packages on a shelf, each package having a package digital display to form a plurality of package digital displays; wherein the plurality of shelf digital displays and the plurality of package digital displays are configured to form a continuous display, wherein the The sequential displays are configured to form a unified display to display one of a price, an advertisement, or a message. Packaged digital displays may include electronic ink. Power can be sent over the air through multiple racks to multiple rack digital displays. Multiple shelves can be configured to interact with multiple packages. The plurality of shelves may define a front and a rear, and wherein a set of frontmost packages is determined from the plurality of packages, and wherein the frontmost packages are configured to form a continuous display. The front surface of each of a set of frontmost packages may be determined to form a continuous display. The plurality of packages may have multiple surfaces, and each of the surfaces may have a package digital display, such that the packages may be placed on a shelf in any orientation to form part of a continuous display.

In one aspect, an apparatus for directing a user to one or more items is provided. The device may include a processor and memory storing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the device to: store one or more items for purchase or viewing; the location of one or more shelf edge electronic displays associated with the one or more items; detecting the computing device of a user within the facility and determining whether the user is approaching one or more shelves associated with the one or more items an edge electronic display, and directing a user to the one or more items by changing the one or more shelf edge electronic displays or changing the electronic display of the one or more items as the user approaches the one or more items item. The device may be further configured to direct the user to a location with the one or more items by changing the one or more shelf edge electronic displays or changing the electronic display of the one or more items when the user approaches the one or more items. Items that are similar or related to the one or more items. The apparatus may be further configured to determine that the one or more items are on a shopping list stored on a mobile device associated with the user.

In another example, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media having stored thereon instructions that, when executed, cause at least one computing device to perform the methods discussed herein.

The various features described above are merely non-limiting examples and may be rearranged, combined, subdivided, omitted and/or changed in any desired manner. The true scope of this patent is to be defined only by the following claims.

Claims (33)

1. A merchandise display system comprising:

a product shelf having an electronic label device positioned along a bottom of the product shelf, the electronic label device comprising one or more electronic displays;

a plurality of packages connected to an electronic label device, wherein each of the plurality of packages is configured to be stored on the product shelf and includes a display;

wherein the one or more electronic displays and the display in each of the plurality of packages form a continuous display,

wherein the electronic label device receives the streaming video and distributes the streaming video between the one or more electronic displays and the corresponding display of each of the plurality of packages,

Wherein the electronic label device is configured to transmit user input received at a first electronic display of the electronic label device to a first display of a first package of the plurality of packages,

wherein the electronic label device is configured to receive data from the first display in response to communicating the user input to the first display, and

wherein the electronic label device is configured to output the data to the first electronic display.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the electronic label device sends an activation trigger to one or more of the plurality of electronic displays.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the electronic label device sends a trigger if the presence of the user is detected by a proximity sensor.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of packages encloses a product, the product comprising a display screen.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the electronic label device sends an activation trigger to a display screen of one or more packaged products of the plurality of packages.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the electronic label device sends an activation trigger if a user interacts with one of the electronic displays.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein a user can interact with the display screen through one of the electronic displays.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second product shelf vertically adjacent to the product shelf and a second electronic label device positioned along a bottom of the second product shelf, the second electronic label device comprising one or more electronic displays.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the one or more electronic displays of the product shelf and the one or more electronic displays of the second product shelf form a continuous display.

10. The system of claim 8, further comprising a second plurality of packages connected to the second electronic label device, wherein each of the second plurality of packages is stored on the second product shelf and includes an embedded display.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the one or more electronic displays of the product shelf, the one or more electronic displays of the second product shelf, the display in each of the plurality of packages, and the embedded display in each of the second plurality of packages form a continuous display.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein the electronic label device outputs the streaming video to a continuous display upon detecting the presence of the user through the proximity sensor.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein a front-most one of the packages and a forward-facing surface of the front-most package are determined such that only the forward-facing surface of the front-most package forms a continuous display.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more electronic displays and each display of the plurality of packages are configured to be changed to direct a user to one or more items stored on a user's computing device.

15. A merchandise display system comprising:

a first product shelf including a first electronic label device positioned along a bottom of the first product shelf;

a second product shelf vertically adjacent to the first product shelf, the second product shelf including a second electronic label device positioned along a bottom of the second product shelf;

a first set of packages stored on the first product shelf and connected to the first electronic label device, the first set of packages comprising a first set of electronic displays; and

A second set of packages stored on the second product shelf and connected to the second electronic label device, the second set of packages comprising a second set of electronic displays;

wherein the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays form a continuous display,

wherein the first electronic label device is configured to transmit user input received at the first electronic label device to a first electronic display of a first package of the first set of packages,

wherein the first electronic label device is configured to receive data from the first electronic display in response to communicating the user input to the first electronic display.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first electronic label device distributes streaming video between each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays simultaneously output a different portion of the streaming video.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the front-most package of the first and second groups of packages and the forward-facing surface of the front-most package are determined such that only the forward-facing surface of the front-most package forms a continuous display.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein one or more of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of electronic displays, and the second set of electronic displays are configured to be changed to direct a user to one or more items stored on a user's computing device.

20. A merchandise display method, comprising:

displaying a first video on a first electronic label device embedded along a bottom of a first product shelf;

displaying a second video on a second electronic label device embedded along a bottom of a second product shelf;

sending, by the first electronic label device, a first activation trigger to a first group of packages stored on the first product shelf and positioned at a front portion of the first product shelf;

sending, by the second electronic label device, a second activation trigger to a second group of packages stored on the second product shelf and positioned at a front portion of the second product shelf;

Distributing, by the first electronic label device, streaming video among each of the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of packaging, and the second set of packaging;

simultaneously displaying, by each of the first electronic label device, the second set of electronic label devices, the first set of packaging, and the second set of packaging, a different portion of the streaming video such that the first electronic label device, the second electronic label device, the first set of packaging, and the second set of packaging form a continuous display;

receiving a first user input at the first electronic label device; and

transmitting the first user input from the first electronic label device to a first package of the first set of packages,

receiving, by the first electronic label device, data from the first package in response to transmitting the first user input to the first package.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the first electronic label device transmits a first activation trigger in response to detecting the presence of a user via a proximity sensor.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the first electronic label device detects the presence of a user through a proximity sensor and sends a trigger to the second electronic label device.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the second electronic tag device transmits a second activation trigger in response to receiving a trigger from the first electronic tag device.

24. A merchandise display system comprising:

a plurality of shelves, each shelf comprising a shelf number display positioned along an edge of a shelf of a retailer to form a plurality of shelf number displays;

a plurality of packages placed on the plurality of shelves, each package having a package digital display to form a plurality of package digital displays;

wherein the plurality of shelf digital displays and the plurality of package digital displays are configured to form a continuous display, wherein the continuous display is configured to form a unified display to display one of a price, an advertisement, or a message, and

wherein a first shelf digital display of the plurality of shelf digital displays is configured to communicate user input received at the first shelf digital display to a first package digital display of the plurality of package digital displays,

wherein the electronic label device is configured to receive data from the first package digital display in response to communicating the user input to the first package digital display, and

Wherein the electronic label device is configured to output the data to the first shelf digital display.

25. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein the packaged digital display comprises electronic ink.

26. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein power is sent over the air through the plurality of shelves to the plurality of shelf digital displays.

27. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein the plurality of shelves are configured to interact with the plurality of packages.

28. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein the plurality of shelves define a front and a back, a set of front most packages is determined from the plurality of packages, the front most packages configured to form a continuous display.

29. The merchandise display system of claim 28 wherein a front surface of each of the front most packages of the group is determined to form a continuous display.

30. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein the plurality of packages have a plurality of surfaces and each surface has a package digital display such that packages can be placed on the shelf in any orientation to form part of the continuous display.

31. The merchandise display system of claim 24 wherein one or more of the plurality of shelf digital displays are configured to be changed to direct a user to one or more items stored on a user's computing device.

32. A merchandise display device comprising:

a processor; and

a memory storing computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to:

storing one or more items for purchase or viewing;

determining a location of one or more shelf edge electronic displays associated with the one or more items within a facility;

detecting a computing device of a user within a facility and determining whether the user is proximate to one or more shelf edge electronic displays associated with the one or more items; and

directing a user to one or more items by changing the one or more shelf edge electronic displays or changing the electronic display of the one or more items when the user approaches the one or more items,

wherein the device is further configured to direct the user to items similar to or related to the one or more items by changing the one or more shelf edge electronic displays or changing the electronic display of the one or more items when the user is proximate to the one or more items.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein the apparatus is further configured to determine that the one or more items are on a shopping list stored on a mobile device associated with a user.

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