Electronic display device having a detection sensor
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2025281219
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-06-06
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field The present invention relates to a holding device and a method for holding items of product packaging with an electronic display device. Furthermore, the invention relates to the electronic display device and a system for managing information about items of product packaging. Background of the Invention In the retail sector in particular, products are packaged in items of product packaging that form so-called display packaging, which allows consumers to view the product inside the package. Such display packaging is specifically referred to as blister packaging. In a typical blister package, the product is presented against a cardboard backing, usually printed with information, and secured with a molded plastic film insert. In some display packages, the rear wall is also made of plastic film. For pharmaceuticals, it is often made of aluminum foil. The items of product packaging comprise, for example, receiving openings and can be slid onto standardized holder or carrier systems (such as Euroslot) to facilitate presentation and inventory management. Moreover, product information and product prices can be displayed on electronic display units, known as electronic shelf label units, or ESL units for short. These ESL units comprise a display screen capable of showing various and changing information. Furthermore, ESL units can comprise an internal power supply (via a battery) or be connected to an external power source. Such ESL units can be mounted on a carrier assembly (known as a blister holder) so that product information, such as the product price, is visible to the consumer on an ESL unit. When a blister package is removed, for example, the ESL unit folds back so that the blister package can be pulled off the blister holder. The stock of blister packages on a blister holder can be determined by the retailer through manual counting or a manual stocktaking. Description of the Invention The objective of the present invention is to determine the stock of items of product packaging on a carrier rod assembly. This objective is achieved by an electronic display device, a holding device, a method for holding items of product packaging with an electronic display device, and a system for managing information about items of product packaging, as set forth in the independent claims. According to one aspect of the invention, an electronic display device for displaying product information is described. The electronic display device comprises a display screen for displaying product information and at least one detection sensor, wherein the electronic display device is configured to be fastened to a carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when an item of product packaging is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging, and the detection sensor is configured to detect the item of product packaging being guided past the electronic display device, so that a stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly can be detected. The display screen is configured and provided for viewing product information. The carrier rod assembly is preferably configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly can be inserted through receiving openings of items of product packaging, such as display packaging, so that the items of product packaging can be slid onto and arranged on the carrier rod assembly one behind the other. One aspect of the invention therefore relates to an electronic display device for displaying product information, wherein the electronic display device comprises a display screen for viewing product information and at least one detection sensor, wherein the electronic display device can be fastened to the carrier rod assembly, which carrier rod assembly is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly can be inserted through the receiving openings in the items of product packaging, so that the items of product packaging can be slid onto and arranged on the carrier rod assembly one behind the other, wherein the electronic display device can be fastened to a carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when an item of product packaging is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging, and the detection sensor is configured to detect the item of product packaging being guided past the electronic display device, so that a stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly can be detected. According to a further aspect of the invention, a device for holding items of product packaging is described. The device comprises the electronic display device according to the invention and the carrier rod assembly, wherein the carrier rod assembly is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly can be inserted through receiving openings of items of product packaging, so that the items of product packaging can be slid onto and arranged one behind the other on the carrier rod assembly. The device thus preferably comprises a carrier rod assembly which is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly can be inserted through receiving openings of items of product packaging, so that the items of product packaging can be slid onto and arranged on the carrier rod assembly one behind the other. Furthermore, the device comprises an electronic display device comprising a display screen for viewing product information and at least one detection sensor, wherein the electronic display device is fastened to the carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when an item of product packaging is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging. The detection sensor is configured to detect the item of product packaging being guided past the electronic display device, so that a stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly can be detected. According to another aspect, a method for recording and / or estimating and / or detecting a stock of items of product packaging on a carrier rod assembly is described. The invention therefore relates to a method for recording and / or estimating and / or detecting a stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly, wherein the electronic display device is configured to be fastened to the carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is placed on the carrier rod assembly and / or removed from the carrier rod assembly, it passes by the electronic display device, in particular it passes by in such a way that the electronic display device passes through a receiving opening of the item of product packaging, and wherein the method comprises the step of: detecting the passing by of the item of product packaging relative to the electronic display device. According to a further aspect, a method for holding items of product packaging, in particular by means of the device described above, is described. The method comprises the step of inserting a carrier rod assembly through receiving openings of items of product packaging, so that the items of product packaging are slid onto and arranged on the carrier rod assembly one behind the other. On the carrier rod assembly, an electronic display device comprising a display screen for viewing product information is fastened to the carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when an item of product packaging is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging, and a detection sensor of the electronic display device can detect the item of product packaging being guided past the electronic display device, so that a stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly is detected. According to the present invention, the items of product packaging are fastened to and held on a carrier rod assembly. Each item of product packaging comprises a receiving opening through which the carrier rod assembly can be inserted. The items of product packaging can be display packages (in particular, blister packages), so that a consumer can see the packaged products through the product packaging. The receiving opening of an item of product packaging is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly can be guided through it completely or at least partially. At the same time, the receiving opening is configured in such a way that, when the items of product packaging are placed onto or pulled off the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device described in more detail below can be guided through the receiving opening. The receiving opening can take the form of a closed opening. Alternatively, the receiving opening can also be formed by an open contour of the items of product packaging. For example, the item of product packaging can form a receiving hook, with the receiving opening formed inside the receiving hook. The receiving opening can have any receiving cross-section, such as a round, oval, or rectangular cross-section. In particular, the carrier rod assembly forms a longitudinally extending carrier on which a plurality of items of product packaging can be arranged by sliding the items of product packaging onto the carrier rod assembly with their receiving opening. The carrier rod assembly can, for example, be mounted on a shelf or a building wall. The carrier rod assembly comprises, for example, at least one carrier rod. In further embodiments described below, the carrier rod assembly can comprise two or more carrier rods. The carrier rod assembly can, in particular, be made of metal, plastic, or natural materials, such as wood. The electronic display device, which in particular constitutes an electronic shelf label unit, or ESL unit for short, comprises a main body or main frame that completely or partially encloses the functional units of the display device. The main body can, for example, be configured as a housing and can comprise, as functional units, a power supply unit (battery), an internal control unit (microprocessor, CPU), and / or communication units (transmitter and / or receiver units). The main body further surrounds the display screen of the display device without covering it, so that the display device can be viewed from the outside. The main body consists, in particular, of a rigid material, such as metal (aluminum) or plastic. The electronic display device can, for example, be controlled by an external control unit, allowing various image contents (price information, product information) to be displayed on the screen. Furthermore, the electronic display device can transmit product information to the external control unit, such as the determined number of items of product packaging that have been slid onto or pulled off the carrier rod assembly. The electronic display device is also fastened to the carrier rod assembly in such a way that a consumer passing by the holding device can view the display screen and read the relevant product information displayed on it. In particular, the electronic display device is fastened to a free end of the carrier rod assembly. Thus, the electronic display device is provided, in particular, at a frontmost position at the free end of the carrier rod assembly, while the individual items of product packaging are arranged behind the electronic display device along the carrier rod assembly. The electronic display device is configured in such a way that it can be guided through the receiving opening of the items of product packaging being held. In other words, while an item of product packaging is being slid onto the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can also be guided through the receiving opening. The item of product packaging thus passes the display device via its receiving opening when the item of product packaging is slid onto the carrier rod assembly. Accordingly, the item of product packaging also passes the electronic display device when it is pulled off the carrier rod assembly. At that, the electronic display device can be securely fastened to the carrier rod assembly so that, while the item of product packaging is being slipped on or pulled off, the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening. Accordingly, the size of the perimeter or contour of the electronic display device can be adapted to the receiving opening of the items of product packaging to be held. Alternatively, as explained in more detail in the embodiments described below, the electronic display device can be movably attached to the carrier rod assembly. Accordingly, for example, when the item of product packaging is being slipped on or pulled off, the electronic display device can be moved into a guide-through position (for example, by pivoting) in which the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening. For example, the electronic display device can thus initially be in a display position (e.g. due to gravity) in which the display screen is clearly visible to a consumer. In particular, the largest surface of the electronic display device in the display position is nearly perpendicular to a direction of extension of the carrier rod assembly (where the direction of extension can be defined between a fastening point of the carrier rod assembly and the free end). In other words, the largest surface lies in a plane the normal of which is parallel to the direction of extension of the carrier rod assembly. In the guide-through position of the electronic display device, it is positioned such that the normal of a plane in which the largest surface of the electronic display device lies comprises an angle, (in particular, a right angle) to the direction of extension. The detection sensor is configured in such a way that the passing by of an item of product packaging relative to the electronic display device can be detected. In particular, the detection sensor can detect the passing by of an item of product packaging relative to the electronic display device (in particular, when the electronic display device is in the guide-through position) by means of physical contact with the carrier rod assembly or the item of product packaging. Alternatively or additionally, the detection sensor can be configured to detect a contactless proximity between the detection sensor and the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly. For example, if the electronic display device is in the guide-through position, the distance between the detection sensor and the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly is at its smallest, so that the passing by of the item of product packaging relative to the electronic display device, and thus any sliding of the item of product packaging onto or off the carrier rod assembly, can be detected. By determining that an item of product packaging is passing by relative to the electronic display device when an item of product packaging is being slid onto or pulled off the carrier rod assembly, it is possible to determine how many items of product packaging are located on the carrier rod assembly. The approach of the present invention thus enables automatic stocktaking, which generally facilitates inventory control and stock counting of the items of product packaging on relevant carrier rod assemblies. It is therefore no longer necessary to manually count the individual items of product packaging on carrier rod assemblies in order to conduct a stock count. It has proven advantageous that the method further comprises the step of estimating and / or determining the stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly based on the detected passing by of the item of product packaging relative to the electronic display device. This step of the method can be performed directly by the electronic display device. This allows for direct use of the data on-site. For example, an action can be triggered directly at an electronic display device when, for instance, a minimum level of stock is reached or undercut. The action can, for example, involve displaying an image on the display screen and / or an optical signaling device, such as an LED, on the electronic display device emitting a signal, such as flashing. However, this step of the method can also be performed on a device external to the electronic display device. The external device can, for example, be the external control unit. To this end, the electronic display device communicates the collected data to the external device, and the external device determines the stock level or estimates it based on that data. This allows for centralized and / or location-independent use of the data. This reduces the processing and computational load on the electronic display device. Consequently, this reduces energy demand, thereby extending the expected service life or operational duration of the electronic display device. According to another exemplary embodiment, the detection sensor comprises a mechanical sensor which is configured to detect items of product packaging being guided past by means of contact with the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly. The mechanical sensor comprises, in particular, a microswitch, a micro-pushbutton, or a contact button. For example, the mechanically configured detection sensor can be configured as a relevant spring-loaded microswitch, micro-pushbutton, or contact element, which is pushed in upon contact with the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly, thereby generating a signal contact to detect an item of product packaging being guided past. In this case, it is possible that, as the item of product packaging passes by, the mechanical sensor makes direct contact with the periphery of the receiving opening. Furthermore, it is possible that, when the item of product packaging passes by, the electronic display device is moved into the guide-through position, in which the mechanical sensor is pressed against the carrier rod assembly. A mechanical sensor comprises movable components, whereby the movement of these components generates a signal that can be processed automatically. The components can be configured to move rotationally and / or translationally. The detection sensor can also be configured without rotationally movable components or without translationally movable components. Preferably, the detection sensor is configured without rotationally movable components for detection. It has been shown that a rotation-free detection sensor is less susceptible to damage and thus has a longer service life. While rotational components often break near the axis of rotation, a rotation-free detection sensor, for example, a purely translational detection sensor (i.e. one with translationally movable components) or a motion-free detection sensor (i.e. a detection sensor without moving components for detection, as discussed below), has proven to be particularly robust and durable. This reduces long-term maintenance requirements, enabling the stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly to be reliably and automatically determined over the long term. Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that the detection sensor of the electronic display device is configured to detect the item of product packaging being guided past without any moving detection sensor components, and / or that the detection sensor is configured to detect the item of product packaging being guided past by means of contactless detection. The detection sensor is therefore preferably realized as a motionless sensor (i.e. without moving parts) and / or as a contactless sensor (i.e. without a mechanical actuation contact). This allows for low-wear or even wear-free use of the sensor to detect, over a long period of time, the items of product packaging that are placed on or removed from the carrier rod assembly. It has also been shown that the use of a motionless sensor and / or a contactless sensor results in fewer failures. While mechanical sensors can be easily damaged, for example, by environmental factors, e.g. becoming blocked as a result of contamination, the motionless sensor and / or the contactless sensor is significantly more resilient and can be easily restored to a condition comparable to that of a new sensor, for example, by simply wiping it clean when contaminated. Maintenance requirements are therefore extremely low. According to another exemplary embodiment, the detection sensor comprises an electronic sensor for detecting an item of product packaging being guided past. The electronic sensor comprises, in particular, a photodetector, a radar sensor, an acceleration sensor, or a ToF sensor, where ToF stands for “Time of Flight.” The electrical sensor is thus preferably configured as an electronic sensor, in particular as a photodetector, a radar sensor, a ToF sensor, or an acceleration sensor. Particularly preferably, the detection sensor comprises the motionless sensor and / or the contactless sensor configured as a photodetector, a radar sensor, a ToF sensor, or an acceleration sensor, or is configured as such a sensor itself. The detection sensor can be configured as an acceleration sensor to detect the orientation of the electronic display device. For example, a photodetector can function as an optical or optoelectrical sensor, converting light into an electrical signal using the photoelectric effect, or it can exhibit an electrical resistance that depends on the incident radiation. For example, a reduction in light intensity in the sensor’s field of view caused by the passing by of an item of product packaging can be measured, thereby determining the stock level on the carrier rod assembly. Furthermore, the electronic sensor can be used to determine on which side of the sensor’s field of view the reduction in light intensity first occurred and, accordingly, at which point in the sensor’s field of view the reduction in light intensity last occurred. Consequently, a temporal change in the darkening across the sensor area, which can be detected by the electronic sensor, can be determined, allowing the direction from which the item of product packaging passes the electronic display device to be identified. For example, if an item of product packaging is pulled off the support rod assembly over the electronic display device, a specific side of the sensor area is darkened first. Conversely, if an item of product packaging is slid onto the carrier rod assembly over the electronic display device, an opposite side of the sensor area is obscured. Thus, it can be precisely determined whether an item of product packaging is being removed from or added to the carrier rod assembly. Accordingly, an accurate inventory of items of product packaging on a carrier rod assembly can be taken and monitored. Similar to a photodetector, a ToF sensor (for example, a ToF camera) can be used. ToF sensors are 3D camera systems that measure distances using the time-of-flight (ToF) method. To do this, the scene is illuminated with a light pulse, and the camera measures, for each pixel, the time it takes for the light to travel to the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly and back again. The time required is directly proportional to the distance. The ToF sensor thus provides, for each pixel, the distance to the reference object imaged on it, i.e. the carrier rod assembly or the item of product packaging. The acceleration sensor determines, in particular, the orientation of the electronic display device. This makes it possible, for example, to determine whether the electronic display device is in a display position or in the guide-through position. If the electronic display device is in the guide-through position, it can be assumed that an item of product packaging is being guided past the electronic display device, so that, based on this, a stock of electronic display devices can be inferred. In particular, depending on the direction of movement of the electronic display device between the display position and the guide-through position, it can be determined whether an item of product packaging is being pushed onto the carrier rod assembly or pulled off it. Furthermore, radar sensors can also be used as electronic sensors. These determine the distance by measuring the transit time of radar waves between the detection sensor and the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly, and can accordingly detect when items of product packaging pass by. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device comprises a protective cover which covers at least portions of the electronic display device, wherein the detection sensor is covered by the protective cover. The detection sensors can be protected by being arranged under a flexible protective cover, such as a silicone cover. The covered area of the protective cover is, for example, transparent to electrical or electromagnetic radiation from the electronic sensors. Furthermore, the covered area of the protective cover can also cover mechanical sensors by configuring the protective cover to be flexible, in particular elastically deformable. In particular, the protective cover can be optically opaque, such that the sensor areas of the detection sensors are not visually perceptible from the outside by a consumer. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device comprises at least one additional detection sensor, which is arranged spaced apart from the detection sensor. The additional detection sensor can, for example, be of the same design as the detection sensor described above. This allows for redundancy in the event that a detection sensor fails due to a defect. In addition, redundant measurements can help optimize measurement accuracy. Furthermore, the additional detection sensor can be of a different design than the detection sensor described above. For example, the detection sensor can be a mechanical sensor, such as a microswitch, and the additional detection sensor can be an electronic sensor, such as a photodetector. Thus, for example, the additional detection sensor can be used to perform a noncontact measurement of the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly, whereas the detection sensor is used to perform a contact-based measurement of the item of product packaging and / or the carrier rod assembly. It has also proven advantageous that, in accordance with the method, the passing by of the item of product packaging is detected at leastways two different locations of the electronic display device, in particular by means of at least two detection sensors. As discussed, this allows for particularly accurate detection of whether and in which direction an item of product packaging is being moved. This, in turn, enables a particularly accurate estimation or determination of the stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly. A more precise determination of stock means that products need to be restocked less frequently, since, for example, it is possible to operate with smaller safety margins. For example, new products are restocked only when fewer than 3 units remain. A larger quantitative reserve of products on the shelf, such as e.g. 6 units, can be avoided. This measure thus reduces maintenance effort and, consequently, the staffing requirements for operating or stocking the device with products. According to another exemplary embodiment, the additional detection sensor is arranged relative to the detection sensor in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is being guided past the electronic display device through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging, the detection sensor and the additional detection sensor can be passed one after the other. In particular, in the guide-through position of the electronic display device and in the direction of extension of the carrier rod assembly, the detection sensor and the additional detection sensor are arranged one behind the other. This allows for different detection time periods and detection locations while the electronic display device is being inserted through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging, so that the passing direction of the item of product packaging relative to the carrier rod assembly or the electronic display device can also be determined. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device comprises a rectangular cubic main body with circumferential narrow sides, wherein the detection sensor and the additional detection sensor are arranged spaced apart along one narrow side in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is being guided past, the detection sensors can be passed one after the other. In particular, the electronic display device comprises two opposing main surfaces (surface areas) connected by circumferential narrow sides (edge regions). The display screen is arranged on one of the main surfaces so that it is visible to a consumer. The detection sensors are arranged along the narrow sides, particularly the long sides. For example, the main surfaces can comprise a rectangular contour configured such that, in at least one orientation (i.e. the guide-through position), the electronic display device can be guided through a receiving opening of the item of product packaging. In particular, the detection sensors are arranged along one of the longitudinal sides of the electronic display device so that the passing movement of the item of product packaging can be detected sequentially. Different longitudinal sides can also be used to rule out false detections. For example, one or more detection sensors can be arranged on each of the opposite narrow sides (longitudinal sides). In the process, the detection sensors can comprise different types of mechanical or electronic sensors. Furthermore, each main side can comprise one detection sensor, or one and the additional detection sensor. The two detection sensors can also be distributed across the two main sides. If there are two detection sensors, one can be positioned adjacent to the top end of the display screen and the other adjacent to the bottom end of the display screen to ensure sequential detection. When positioned on the main side, the at least one detection sensor is preferably positioned on the main surface located behind the display screen to prevent unintended detection caused by a movement of a person in front of the display screen. According to another exemplary embodiment, the carrier rod assembly comprises a free end over which the items of product packaging can be slid on or off by means of the receiving openings. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device is arranged at the free end. This ensures that the items of product packaging pass the electronic display device first, before the items of product packaging are held on the carrier rod assembly. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device is pivotably arranged on the carrier rod assembly in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is being guided past, the electronic display device can be pivoted into an orientation (i.e. into the guide-through position) in which the electronic display device can be guided through the receiving opening of the item of product packaging. In the process, when the item of product packaging is placed onto the carrier rod assembly, the electronic display device can be moved in a first pivoting direction to achieve the guide-through position, and when the item of product packaging is pulled off the carrier rod assembly, it can be moved in a second pivoting direction, opposite to the first pivoting direction, to achieve a corresponding guide-through position. Due to the design of the specific type of detection sensor (for example, a photosensor), due to the corresponding arrangement of at least two detection sensors being spaced apart, and due to the use of an acceleration sensor as a detection sensor, the first and second pivoting directions can be detected, or it can be determined whether an item of product packaging is being pushed onto or off the carrier rod assembly. According to a further exemplary embodiment, the carrier rod assembly comprises at least two carrier rods which are spaced apart and, in particular, extend parallel, wherein the carrier rods are configured in such a way that they can be inserted simultaneously through the receiving openings of the items of product packaging. With two carrier rods that extend parallel and are spaced apart, both of which can be guided through the receiving opening of an item of product packaging, a secure support and, accordingly, orientation of the item of product packaging can be provided. Instead of two carrier rods that are spaced apart, a single carrier rod can also be provided that can be guided through the receiving openings of the items of product packaging and which forms a support surface for the items of product packaging. For example, the carrier rod can comprise a rectangular cross-section to form the support surface. According to another exemplary embodiment, the carrier rods are spaced apart in such a way that the display device can be arranged in a region between the carrier rods. In particular, the electronic display device can be arranged pivotably between the carrier rods in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is placed on the carrier rods, the electronic display device pivots into the guide-through position and the detection sensor or sensors can detect contact with or proximity to at least one of the carrier rods. At the same time, the electronic display device can be provided to be able to pivot in such a way that, when the item of product packaging is pulled off the carrier rods, the electronic display device is pivoted into a guide-through position, and the detection sensor or sensors detect contact with or proximity to an inner surface or the contour of the receiving opening of the item of product packaging. According to a further exemplary embodiment, the two carrier rods are connected at their free ends to a crossbar, on which, in particular, the electronic display device is arranged (for example, pivotably). The crossbar enables a stiffer and more robust structure of the carrier rod assembly, as it reduces, for example, deformation or vibrations of the carrier rods and the stiffening element. According to another exemplary embodiment of the electronic display device, it comprises a fastening tab through which a portion of the carrier rod assembly can be arranged for fastening the electronic display device. The fastening tab can, for example, comprise an open cross-section and correspondingly form a hook shape, so that the electronic display device can be fastened to the carrier rod assembly. In particular, the electronic display device can be pivotably arranged on the crossbar, which connects the two carrier rods, by means of the fastening tab. The fastening tab can, for example, be integrally formed through an opening (through-hole) in the main body of the electronic display device. According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic display device comprises a fastening element which can be fastened, in particular removably, to a main body of the electronic display device and forms the fastening tab. The fastening element can, for example, be fastened to the electronic display device by means of a detachable fastener, such as a screw, or by means of an adhesive bond. According to another exemplary embodiment, the fastening element comprises two fastening portions, each of which can be fastened to opposing surfaces on the main body, wherein a connecting region of the fastening portions is spaced apart from the main body to form the fastening tab. For example, one fastening portion can be fastened to one main surface and another fastening portion to an opposite main surface of the electronic display device. The connecting region extends accordingly from a narrow side of the main body of the electronic display device to form the fastening tab. According to a further exemplary embodiment, the fastening element is configured in such a way that the two fastening portions are elastically deformable relative to one another and, when the main body of the electronic display device is positioned between the fastening portions, they are preloaded. Due to the preload exerted on the two elastically arranged fastening portions by the main body of the electronic display device, a clamping force is generated, thereby providing a releasable fixation of the fastening element. For example, at least the connecting region forming the fastening tab can consist of an elastic material, such as metal or a plastic composite. In another exemplary embodiment, only the fastening portions can be made of an elastic material. Furthermore, the entire fastening element can also be manufactured monolithically from a single material, such as metal or an elastic plastic. According to another exemplary embodiment, the fastening portions are configured with locking elements in such a way that the locking elements can be locked into corresponding receiving grooves in the main body of the electronic display device. In other words, the fastening element forms a fastening clip which is elastically deformed when the main body is inserted between the fastening portions, and when the receiving grooves in the main body are reached, the locking elements can lock into these receiving grooves. This prevents the main body from unintentionally becoming detached from the fastening element. Furthermore, a single receiving groove can be provided, into which either a single locking element or multiple locking elements engage. Quite generally, it has proven advantageous for the electronic display device to comprise the main body, in particular the main body configured as a housing, and the fastening element, wherein the main body, in particular the housing, and the fastening element are configured as a single piece, in particular monolithically. The housing and the fastening element are thus preferably realized monolithically. For example, the housing and the fastening element can be formed together, such as by casting, in particular by injection molding, or be reshaped, such as by stamping and / or die-cutting. The one-piece design of the housing and the fastening element allows, on the one hand, for simple and cost-effective manufacturing, because, for example, only one casting mold or one die or the like is required to provide an electronic display device with the properties of the main body (robustness) or the housing and the fastening element (easy assembly). On the other hand, it makes it as easy as possible to produce a large amount of display devices that are robust and easy to mount. At the same time, the one-piece design improves the display device’s resistance to mechanical stress. With a two-part display device, for example, there is a risk that, under excessive stress, such as that which can occur when a display package is pulled off abruptly, the display device will split into these two parts. The one-piece design counteracts this and provides a display device that withstands everyday stresses over the long term. Thus, a display device is provided that is easy to manufacture and can be used over the long term, i.e. one that comprises a long expected service life. It should be noted that a one-piece configuration of the main body and the fastening element means that the main body and the fastening element are manufactured from a single piece. It does not necessarily mean that, for example, the main body itself must also be configured as a single piece. For example, the main body can comprise a two-piece housing, wherein one housing part is realized as a single piece with the fastening element. It is particularly preferred that the main body itself be configured as a single piece and be realized as a single piece with the fastening element, in particular a single-piece fastening element. It should be noted that the discussed configurations of the fastening, i.e. particularly the fastening element, are advantageous regardless of the detection sensor. For example, the one-piece design of the main body, particularly the housing, and the fastening element is also advantageous even without a detection sensor for the reasons mentioned. However, it has proven particularly advantageous to combine the discussed configurations of the fastening with the detection sensor. This provides an electronic display device that is particularly easy to maintain. For example, the one-piece design allows for damage-resistant use of the display device, while at the same time the detection sensor enables automatic and autonomous detection of items of product packaging, which, for example, allows for determination of the products present. Consequently, the display device requires no maintenance by staff over a long period of time, and at the same time, staff can be instructed as needed to restock products when they have run out or are about to run out. This reduces the workload on the employee. The fastening tab, in particular, one that is attached to the main body in an elastically deformable manner and / or comprises a receiving groove into which the locking element can lock into place, allows for easy installation of the display device. At the same time, this enables unobstructed use of the display device when placing the item of product packaging, as it can simply be slid over the fastening tab onto the carrier rod assembly. Due to the unobstructed relative movement of the item of product packaging with respect to the display device, the detections recorded by the detection sensor are particularly reliable, as misinterpretations, such as those that occur, for example, when shaking the item of product packaging is necessary while placing it on or removing it from the carrier rod assembly, are avoided. Furthermore, the smooth and effortless removal (or lining-up) of the item of product packaging results in fewer detections being performed, thereby reducing energy consumption and further extending the expected service life of the display device. This is because if shaking is required to remove the item of product packaging, it may be moved past the detection sensor or sensors multiple times. This can be taken into account in the evaluation of the recorded detections, for example, by offsetting movements in one direction against movements in the opposite direction and / or by considering only those detections that occurred at a certain time interval (e.g. a predefined time span) after the last detection. However, even with these measures, detection typically involves energy consumption. Therefore, an interference-free design of the fastening element (as discussed before) results in reduced energy consumption. According to a further aspect of the invention, a system for managing information about items of product packaging is described. The system comprises the device described above for holding items of product packaging and an external control unit. The electronic display device comprises a communication module configured to exchange data regarding product information and / or the stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly with the control unit. The electronic display device comprises, for example, an internal control unit (microprocessor, CPU) and the communication module (for example, a transmitting and / or receiving unit). The (external) control unit of the system can be a central server, a mobile communication device, or a mobile reading device. Data can be exchanged between the electronic display device and the system’s control unit via the communication module. For example, relevant sensor data from the detection sensors can be transmitted to the control unit, enabling a management program installed on the control unit to determine and organize the stock of packaging units accordingly. In other words, the electronic display device can transmit product information to the external control unit, such as the detected number of items of product packaging that have been slid onto or pulled off the carrier rod assembly. Furthermore, the control unit can transmit control signals to the electronic display device so that various image contents (price information, product information) can be shown on the display screen. An internal control unit of the electronic display device can pre-evaluate the stock of goods detected by the detection sensors and transmit this evaluation to a server acting as an external control unit, so that the server always knows the current stock of goods on the carrier rod assembly (e.g. blister holder). The electronic display device can combine the sensor data collected by the detection sensors with additional data, such as the time of occurrence and / or the sequence of occurrence (time of removal, time of restocking the items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly), and transmit this information to the server, thereby enabling the server to determine the stock of goods on its own. Furthermore, the electronic display device can comprise a memory module in which the inventory data for the items of product packaging, as detected by the detection sensors, can be stored. This enables the currently available inventory data to be read out sequentially, i.e. at predetermined times, or as needed. The control unit can, for example, function as a central server (access point), with a plurality of the electronic display devices described above connected to the control unit via a network for data exchange. For example, the network can be configured using cellular standards, Wi-Fi, or other transmission technologies to transfer relevant data between the control unit and the electronic display devices. Thus, for example, the electronic display devices can be connected to the central server, acting as the control unit, via the Internet in a manner similar to cloud computing. For example, data (inventory data or display data) can be transmitted to and from the electronic display devices via a radio communication infrastructure within the building or store. This radio communication infrastructure can also be used to query the respective operating status of the electronic display devices, such as processing status, charge status of the battery, etc. This radio communication infrastructure can also be used to transmit the detected events, possibly along with any additional data, or the results of the preliminary evaluation of the events from the electronic display devices to the server. Furthermore, the control unit can be integrated into a mobile reading device so that, for example, a person can read or scan the electronic display devices on relevant carrier rod assemblies to obtain information about the stock of items of product packaging on the carrier rod assembly. For example, the control unit can also be implemented by a mobile device with which the inventory data can be read, for example via near-field communication (NFC) or via Wi-Fi. It should be noted that the embodiments described herein represent only a limited selection of possible embodiments of the invention. Thus, it is possible to combine the features of individual embodiments in an appropriate manner, such that, for a person skilled in the art, the embodiments explicitly described herein are to be regarded as obviously disclosing a multitude of different embodiments. In particular, some embodiments of the invention are described with device claims, and other embodiments of the invention are described with method claims. However, it will immediately become clear to a person skilled in the art upon reading this application that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, in addition to a combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter of the invention, any combination of features belonging to different types of subject matter of the invention is also possible. Brief Description of the Drawings For further explanation and to facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a holding device for holding items of product packaging according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the holding device from Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of an electronic display device in a guide-through position, in which an item of product packaging is slid onto the carrier rod assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of an electronic display device in a guide-through position in which an item of product packaging is slid off the carrier rod assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view of an electronic display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 shows a schematic bottom view of an electronic display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a system for managing and transmitting information about items of product packaging according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments Identical or similar components in different figures are designated by the same reference signs. The illustrations in the figures are schematic. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view and Fig. 2 shows a side view of a device 100 for holding items of product packaging 120 according to an exemplary embodiment. The device 100 comprises a carrier rod assembly 101, which is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly 101 can be inserted through receiving openings 121 of items of product packaging 120, so that the items of product packaging 120 can be slid onto and arranged on the carrier rod assembly 101 one behind the other. Furthermore, the device 100 comprises an electronic display device 110 featuring a display screen 113 for viewing product information, and at least one detection sensor 111, wherein the electronic display device 110 is fastened to the carrier rod assembly 101 in such a way that, when an item of product packaging 120 is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly 101, the electronic display device 110 can be guided through the receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120, and the detection sensor 111 is configured to detect the item of product packaging 120 being guided past the electronic display device 110, so that a stock of items of product packaging 120 on the carrier rod assembly 101 can be detected. The items of product packaging 120 are fastened to and held by a carrier rod assembly 101. Each item of product packaging 120 comprises a receiving opening 121 through which the carrier rod assembly 101 can be inserted. The items of product packaging 120 are, for example, display packages (in particular, blister packages), so that a consumer can see the packaged products through the product packaging. The receiving opening 121 of an item of product packaging is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly 101 can be guided through it completely or at least partially. At the same time, the receiving opening 121 is configured in such a way that, when the items of product packaging 120 are placed on or removed from the carrier rod assembly 101, the electronic display device 110 can be guided through the receiving opening 121. In particular, the carrier rod assembly 101 forms a longitudinally extending carrier on which the plurality of items of product packaging 120 can be arranged by sliding the items of product packaging 120 onto the carrier rod assembly 101 with their receiving opening 121. The carrier rod assembly 101 can, for example, be mounted on a shelf or a building wall. The carrier rod assembly 101 comprises at least two carrier rods 103 that are spaced apart and, in particular, extend parallel, wherein the carrier rods 103 are configured in such a way that the carrier rods 103 can be inserted simultaneously through the receiving openings 121 of the items of product packaging 120. The carrier rods 103 are spaced apart in such a way that the display device 110 can be positioned in a region between the carrier rods 103. The two carrier rods 103 are connected at their free ends 102 to a crossbar 104, on which, in particular, the electronic display device 110 is arranged (for example, pivotably). The crossbar 104 enables a stiffer and more robust structure of the carrier rod assembly 101. The electronic display device 110, which in particular constitutes an electronic shelf label unit, or ESL unit for short, comprises a main body or main frame that completely or partially encloses the functional units of the display device 110. The main body can, for example, be configured as a housing and can comprise, as functional units, a power supply unit (battery), an internal control unit (microprocessor, CPU), and / or a communication module 702 (see Fig. 7) (transmitter and / or receiver units). The main body further surrounds the display screen 113 of the display device 110 without covering it, so that the display device 110 can be viewed from the outside. The electronic display device 110 is fastened to the carrier rod assembly 101 in such a way that a consumer passing by the holding device 100 can view the display screen 113 and read the relevant product information shown on it. The electronic display device 110 is provided, in particular, at a frontmost position at the free end 104 of the carrier rod assembly 101, while the individual items of product packaging 120 are arranged behind the electronic display device 110 along the carrier rod assembly 101. The electronic display device 110 is configured in such a way that it can be guided through the receiving opening 121 of the product packaging 120 being held. In other words, while an item of product packaging 120 is being slid onto the carrier rod assembly 101, the electronic display device 110 can also be guided through the receiving opening 121. The item of product packaging 120 thus passes the display device 110 via its receiving opening 121 when the item of product packaging 120 is slid onto the carrier rod assembly 101. Accordingly, the item of product packaging 120 also passes the electronic display device 110 when it is pulled off the carrier rod assembly 101. The detection sensors 111, 112 are configured in such a way that any passing by of an item of product packaging 120 relative to the electronic display device 110 is detected. The detection sensors 111, 112 can detect a passing by of the item of product packaging 120 relative to the electronic display device 110 (in particular, when the electronic display device 110 is in a guide-through position) by means of physical contact with the carrier rod assembly 101 or the item of product packaging 120. Alternatively or additionally, the detection sensors 111, 112 can be configured to detect a contactless proximity between the detection sensors 111, 112 and the item of product packaging 120 and / or the carrier rod assembly 101. For example, if the electronic display device 101 is in the guide-through position, the distance between the detection sensors 111, 112 and the item of product packaging 120 and / or the carrier rod assembly 101 is at its smallest, so that the passing by of the item of product packaging 120 relative to the electronic display device 101, and thus any sliding of the item of product packaging 120 onto or off the carrier rod assembly 101, is detected. By determining that an item of product packaging 120 is passing by relative to the electronic display device 110 when an item of product packaging 120 is being slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly 101, it is possible to determine how many items of product packaging 120 are located on the carrier rod assembly 101. This enables automatic stocktaking, which generally facilitates inventory control and stock counting of the items of product packaging 120 on relevant carrier rod assembly 101. The detection sensors 111, 112 are spaced apart. The detection sensors 111, 112 can be of the same or different designs. The detection sensors 111, 112 are arranged in such a way that, when the item of product packaging 120 is being guided past the electronic display device 110 through the receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120, the detection sensor 111 and the additional detection sensor 112 are passed one after the other and not simultaneously. In particular, in the guide-through position of the electronic display device 101 and in the direction of extension 301 (see Fig. 3) of the carrier rod assembly 101, the detection sensor 111 and the additional detection sensor 112 are arranged one behind the other. This allows for different detection times and detection locations while the electronic display device 110 is being inserted through the receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120, so that the passing direction of the item of product packaging 120 relative to the carrier rod assembly 101 or the electronic display device 110 can also be determined. In the example shown, the electronic display device 110 comprises a rectangular cubic main body with circumferential narrow sides 114, wherein the detection sensors 111 and 112 are arranged spaced apart in such a way that, when the item of product packaging 120 is being guided past, the detection sensors 111, 112 can be passed one after the other. In particular, the electronic display device 110 comprises two opposing main surfaces (surface areas) connected by circumferential narrow sides 114 (edge regions). The display screen 113 is arranged on a main surface so that it is visible to a consumer. The detection sensors 111, 112 are arranged along the narrow sides 114. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of an electronic display device 110 in a guide-through position, in which an item of product packaging 120 is slid onto the carrier rod assembly 101. Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the electronic display device 110 in a guide-through position, in which an item of product packaging 120 is slid off the carrier rod assembly 101. The electronic display device 110 is pivotably arranged on the carrier rod assembly 101 in such a way that, when the item of product packaging 120 is being guided past, the electronic display device 110 can be pivoted into an orientation (i.e. into the guide-through position) in which the electronic display device 110 can be guided through the receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120. In the process, when the item of product packaging 120 is placed onto the carrier rod assembly 101, the electronic display device 110 can be moved in a first pivoting direction to achieve the guide-through position. At that, the electronic display device 110 is provided, for example, between the carrier rods 103 (Fig. 3). When the item of product packaging 120 is pulled off the carrier rod assembly 101, the display device 101 is moved in a second pivoting direction, opposite to the first pivoting direction, to achieve a corresponding guide-through position (Fig. 4). The detection sensors 111, 112 detect contact with or proximity to an inner surface or the contour of the receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120. For example, the electronic display device 110 can thus initially (e.g. due to gravity) be in a display position (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) in which the display screen 113 is clearly visible to a consumer. In particular, the largest surface of the electronic display device 101 is provided at nearly a right angle to an extension direction 301 of the carrier rod assembly in the display position (where the direction of extension 301 can be defined between a fastening point of the carrier rod assembly 101 and the free end 104). In other words, the largest surface lies in a plane the normal n of which is parallel to the direction of extension 301 of the carrier rod assembly 101. In the guide-through position of the electronic display device 110, it is positioned such that the normal n of a plane in which the largest surface of the electronic display device lies is at an angle (in particular, a right angle) to the direction of extension 301. Due to the exemplary design of the specific sensor type of a single detection sensor 111 (for example, using a photosensor), the corresponding arrangement of at least two detection sensors 111, 112, and an acceleration sensor as a detection sensor 111, 112, the first and second pivoting directions can be detected, or it can be determined whether an item of product packaging 120 is being pushed onto or off the carrier rod assembly 101. For example, main surfaces of the electronic display device 110 can comprise a rectangular contour configured such that, in at least one orientation (i.e. the guide-through position), the electronic display device 101 can be guided through a receiving opening 121 of the item of product packaging 120. Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view and Fig. 6 a schematic bottom view of an electronic display device 110 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The electronic display device 110 comprises, for example, a protective cover which covers at least portions of the electronic display device 110, wherein the detection sensors 111, 112 can be covered by the protective cover. The electronic display device 110 comprises a fastening element 501 which can be fastened, in particular removably, to a main body of the electronic display device 110 and forms a fastening tab 502. The fastening tab 502 allows a section of the carrier rod assembly 101 to be used for arranging the electronic display device 110. In particular, the electronic display device 110 can be pivotably arranged on the crossbar 104, which connects the two carrier rods 103, by means of the fastening tab 502. The fastening element 501 comprises two fastening portions 503, 504, each of which can be fastened to opposing surfaces on the main body of the electronic display device 110, wherein a connecting region of the fastening portions 503, 504 is spaced apart from the main body to form the fastening tab 502. For example, one fastening portion 503 can be attached to one main surface and another fastening portion 504 to an opposite main surface of the electronic display device 110. The connecting region extends accordingly from a narrow side 114 of the main body of the electronic display device 110 to form the fastening tab 502. The two fastening portions 503, 504 are elastically deformable relative to one another, and when the main body of the electronic display device 110 is positioned between the fastening portions 503, 504, these are preloaded. Due to the preload of the two fastening portions 503, 504, which are elastically arranged relative to one another, a clamping force is generated, thereby providing a releasable fixation of the fastening element 501. The fastening portions 503, 504 are configured with locking elements 601 in such a way that the locking elements 601 can lock into corresponding receiving grooves 602 in the main body of the electronic display device 110. In other words, the fastening element 501 forms a fastening clip which is elastically deformed when the main body is inserted between the fastening portions 503, 504, and when the receiving grooves 602 in the main body are reached, the locking elements 601 can lock into these receiving grooves 602. Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a system 700 for managing and transmitting information about items of product packaging 120 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The system 700 comprises the device 100 described above for holding items of product packaging 120 and an external control unit 701. The electronic display device 110 comprises a communication module 702, which is configured to exchange data regarding product information and / or the stock of items of product packaging 120 on the carrier rod assembly 101 with the control unit 701. The electronic display device comprises, for example, an internal control unit (microprocessor, CPU) and the communication module 702 (for example, a transmitting and / or receiving unit). The electronic display device 110 can, for example, be controlled by the external control unit 701 so that various image contents (price information, product information) can be displayed on the display screen 113. Furthermore, the electronic display device 110 can transmit product information to the external control unit 701, such as the detected number of items of product packaging 120 that have been pushed onto or pulled off the carrier rod assembly 101. The (external) control unit 702 of the system can be a central server, a mobile device, or a mobile reading device. Data can be exchanged between the electronic display device 110 and the control unit 701 of the system 700 via the communication module 702. For example, relevant sensor data from the detection sensors 111, 112 can be transmitted to the control unit 701, allowing a management program installed on the control unit 701 to determine and organize the stock of items of product packaging 120 accordingly. The control unit 701, for example, serves as a central server, wherein a plurality of the electronic display devices 101 described above are connected to the control unit 701 via a network for data exchange. For example, the network can be configured using cellular standards, Wi-Fi, or other transmission technologies to transfer relevant data between the control unit 701 and the electronic display devices 101. For instance, the electronic display devices 101 can be connected to the central server, which serves as the control unit 701, via the Internet in a manner similar to cloud computing. Furthermore, an input / output unit (I / O unit, e.g. a desktop computer, laptop, etc.) 703 can be connected to the server via a network, so that a user can transmit corresponding control data from the control unit 701 to the communication module 702 of the electronic display device 110. Accordingly, product information and stock information regarding the items of product packaging 120 on the carrier rod assembly 12 can be obtained by the electronic display device 110 via the control unit 701 and displayed on the input / output unit 703. It should also be noted that “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to any of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be construed as limitations. List of reference signs: 100 Device 101 Carrier rod assembly 102 Free end 103 Carrier rod 104 Crossbar 110 Electronic display device 111 Detection sensor 112 Additional detection sensor 113 Display screen 114 Narrow side 120 Item of product packaging 121 Receiving opening 301 Direction of extension 501 Fastening element 502 Fastening tab 503 Fastening portion 504 Fastening portion 601 Locking element 602 Receiving groove 700 System 701 Control unit 702 Communication module 703 Input / output unit
Claims
1. An electronic display device (110) comprising- a display screen (113) for displaying product information, and- at least one detection sensor (111);wherein the electronic display device (110) is configured to be fastened to a carrier rod assembly (101) in such a way that,when an item of product packaging (120) is slid onto or off the carrier rod assembly (101), the electronic display device (110) can be guided through the receiving opening (121) of the item of product packaging (120), and the detection sensor (111) is configured to detect the item of product packaging (120) being guided past the electronic display device (110), so that a stock of items of product packaging (120) on the carrier rod assembly (101) can be detected.
2. Electronic display device (110) according to claim 1, wherein the detection sensor (111) comprises a mechanical sensor which is configured to detect items of product packaging (120) being guided past by means of contact with the item of product packaging (120) or the carrier rod assembly (101), wherein the mechanical sensor comprises, in particular, a microswitch, a micro-pushbutton, or a contact button.
3. Electronic display device (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection sensor (111) is configured to detect the item of product packaging (120) being guided past without any moving detection sensor components, and / orwherein the detection sensor (111) is configured to detect the item of product packaging (120) being guided past by means of contactless detection.
4. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims,wherein the detection sensor (111) comprises an electronic sensor for detecting an item of product packaging (120) being guided past, wherein the electronic sensor comprises, in particular, a photodetector, a radar sensor, a ToF sensor, or an acceleration sensor.
5. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims,wherein the electronic display device (110) comprises a protective cover which covers at least portions of the electronic display device (110), wherein the electronic sensor is covered by the protective cover.
6. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims,wherein the electronic display device (110) comprises at least one additional detection sensor (112), which is arranged spaced apart from the detection sensor (111).
7. Electronic display device (110) according to claim 6, wherein the additional detection sensor (112) is arranged relative to the detection sensor (111) in such a way that, when the item of product packaging (120) is being guided past the electronic display device (110) through the receiving opening (121) of the item of product packaging (120), the detection sensor (111) and the additional detection sensor (112) can be passed one after the other.
8. Electronic display device (110) according to claim 7, wherein the electronic display device (110) comprises a rectangular cubic main body with circumferential narrow sides (114), wherein the detection sensor (111) and the additional detection sensor (112) are arranged spaced apart along one narrow side (114) in such a way that, when the item of product packaging (120) is being guided past, the detection sensors (111, 112) can be passed one after the other.
9. Electronic display device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the electronic display device (110) is configured to be fastened to the carrier rod assembly (101) in such a way that the electronic display device (110) is arranged at a free end (102) of the carrier rod assembly (101), over which free end (102) the items of product packaging (120) can be slid on or off by means of the receiving openings (121).
10. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic display device (110) is configured to be pivotably arranged on the carrier rod assembly (101) in such a way that, when the item of product packaging (120) is being guided past, the electronic display device (110) can be pivoted into an orientation in which the electronic display device (110) can be guided through the receiving opening (121) of the item of product packaging (120).
11. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fastening tab (502) through which a portion of the carrier rod assembly (101) can be arranged for fastening the electronic display device (110).
12. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims,further comprising a fastening element (501) which can be fastened, in particular removably, to a main body of the electronic display device (110) and forms a fastening tab (502).
13. Electronic display device (110) according to one of the preceding claims,wherein the electronic display device (110) comprises- a main body, in particular a main body configured as a housing, and- a fastening element (501), wherein the main body, in particular the housing, and the fastening element (501) are configured as a single piece.
14. A device (100) for holding items of product packaging (120), wherein the device (100) comprises:an electronic display device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 13, and the carrier rod assembly (101), which is configured in such a way that the carrier rod assembly (101) can be inserted through receiving openings (121) of items of product packaging (120), so that the items of product packaging (120) can be slid onto and arranged one behind the other on the carrier rod assembly (101).
15. Device (100) according to claim 14, wherein the carrier rod assembly (101) comprises at least two carrier rods (103) which are spaced apart and, in particular, extend parallel,wherein the carrier rods (103) are configured in such a way that the carrier rods (103) can be inserted simultaneously through the receiving openings (121) of the items of product packaging (120),and wherein the carrier rods (103) are spaced apart in such a way that the display device (110) can be arranged in a region between the carrier rods (103).
16. A system (700) for managing information about items of product packaging (120), the system (700) comprisingthe electronic display device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 13, a control unit (701),wherein the electronic display device (110) comprises a communication module (702) configured to exchange data regarding product information and / or the stock of items of product packaging (120) on the carrier rod assembly (101) with the control unit (701).
17. System (700) according to claim 16, wherein the control unit (701) is a central server, a mobile communication device, or a mobile reading device.
18. A method for recording and / or estimating and / or detecting a stock of items of product packaging (120) on a carrier rod assembly (101), wherein an electronic display device (110) is configured to be fastened to the carrier rod assembly (101) in such a way that, when the item of product packaging (120) is placed on the carrier rod assembly (101) and / or when it is removed from the carrier rod assembly (101), it passes by the electronic display device (110), in particular it passes by in such a way that the electronic display device (110) passes through a receiving opening (121) of the item of product packaging (120), and wherein the method comprises the step of:- detecting the passing by of the item of product packaging (120) relative to the electronic display device (110).
19. Method according to claim 18, wherein the method further comprises the step of:- estimating and / or determining the stock of items of product packaging (120) on the carrier rod assembly (101) based on the detected passing by of the item of product packaging (120) relative to the electronic display device (110).
20. Method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the passing by of the item of product packaging (120) is detected at leastways two different locations of the electronic display device (110), in particular by means of at least two detection sensors (111).