Carrier device for carrying an electronic device in a receiving space of the carrier device

Abstract

The invention relates to a carrier device (1), in particular a shelf rail, for carrying modules (10), in particular electronic devices, wherein the carrier device has an orientation wall (3) for orienting a module (10) placed into the carrier device (1), and the orientation wall (3) has a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension running normal to the longitudinal extension, wherein the carrier device (1) is designed such that a module (10) placed into the carrier device (1) in a defined manner can be moved within the carrier device (1) in correspondence with or along the transverse extension of the orientation wall (3) between a removal position and a holding position in which the module (10) is oriented at the orientation wall (3), and the shape or cross section of the carrier device (1) forms a removal opening at a distance from the orientation wall (3) through which the module can be removed from the carrier device starting from the removal position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a carrier device having a receiving space for receiving and holding a module, which can be removed from the receiving space. The invention also relates to a module configured for insertion into and removal from the receiving space of the carrier device. Background Technology

[0002] WO2017 / 153481A1 discloses a module as an electronic display unit, also known as an "electronic shelf tag" or ESL for short. This display unit incorporates a pin-shaped, magnetically pull-in blocking element as part of its fixing components. This blocking element is structurally integrated into the ESL and serves to secure the ESL to a support device configured as a shelf track. The blocking element extends from the ESL's housing and engages with a slot or opening in the correspondingly configured shelf track. The blocking element holds the ESL in a predetermined holding position within the shelf track (the shelf track's shape defines a receiving space), reliably preventing removal from the shelf track, theft of the ESL, and displacement along the shelf track. The blocking element can be pulled in using a separate special tool (which makes direct contact with the ESL) via a magnetic field generated by the tool, allowing the ESL to be directly removed from its holding position and taken from the shelf track. This can only be accomplished by a person with access to the special tool.

[0003] However, the necessity of this specialized tool has proven disadvantageous in several ways, as it is, in principle, an additional component used when working with the ESL at the shelf rails. This tool is frequently lost or misplaced, causing delays when repositioning or adapting the ESL. Furthermore, replacing this tool is associated with significant logistical problems, as special delivery or transport conditions must be met when the tool is equipped with strong permanent magnets. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an improved support device, an improved module, and a system comprising such a support device and at least one such module supported by the support device.

[0005] The task is solved by a carrier according to the invention. Therefore, the subject of the invention is a carrier for carrying modules, particularly electronic devices, and especially shelf rails, wherein the carrier has an orientation wall for orienting modules placed in the carrier, and the orientation wall has a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension extending normally to the longitudinal extension, wherein the carrier is configured such that a module, placed in the carrier according to a predetermined arrangement, can move within the carrier between a retrieved position and a held position corresponding to or along the transverse extension of the orientation wall, in which the module is oriented at the orientation wall; and the shape or cross-section of the carrier forms a retrieved opening spaced apart from the orientation wall, through which the module can only be retrieved from the carrier from the retrieved position.

[0006] Furthermore, the task is solved by a module according to the invention. Therefore, the subject of the invention is a module, preferably an electronic device, and particularly preferably an electronic shelf display sign, configured to be carried by a support device, especially a shelf track, wherein the support device has an orientation wall for orienting a module placed in the support device, and the orientation wall has a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension normal to the longitudinal extension, wherein the support device is configured such that a module, placed in the support device as intended, can move within the support device between a retrieved position and a held position corresponding to or along the transverse extension of the orientation wall, in which the module is oriented at the orientation wall; and the shape or cross-section of the support device forms a retrieved opening spaced apart from the orientation wall, through which the module can only be retrieved from the support device from the retrieved position, wherein the module has a first dimension corresponding to the transverse extension of the orientation wall, and the first dimension is greater than the width of the retrieved opening and smaller than the transverse extension of the orientation wall.

[0007] Furthermore, the task is accomplished by a system according to the invention. Therefore, the subject of the invention is a system having a carrier according to the invention and at least one module according to the invention.

[0008] The measures according to the invention therefore offer the advantage that the module can be removed from the carrier without additional special tools. In particular, no force is required during removal, which causes elastic deformation or temporary shape change of the carrier to forcibly widen the removal opening so that the module can then be removed from the carrier through the enlarged opening. In the specific implementation of the invention, the user only needs to know that the module cannot be removed directly from the holding position, but must first be brought into the removal position before the user can remove the module from the carrier. This significantly facilitates work using the module, especially in retail premises where the carrier serves as a shelf rail, and sometimes thousands of electronic shelf displays are held and positioned as modules on the shelf rail, where it is often necessary to change the module's arrangement on the shelf rail and / or change the module's position on the shelf rail in a very short time.

[0009] In principle, the support device can be implemented in various different ways. For example, it could involve a table stand that can be erected on or secured to a counter. Equally feasible is to construct the support structure as a garment tag that can be hung and secured to clothing. However, for the sake of a concise description of the invention, only shelf rails are mentioned below as a preferred configuration of the support device. The orientation of the support device can also be arbitrary, and therefore the orientation of the equipment fixed to the support device can also be arbitrary. For example, the support device can be made of plastic or composite materials, such as glass fiber reinforced plastic. Metals (preferably non-magnetic or non-magnetizable), such as aluminum, can also be used.

[0010] As a non-exhaustive example of modules, the following are mentioned here: electronic devices having sensor units or sensors, such as motion sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, and cameras; input devices, such as knobs or buttons, touch sensors, and touch screens; output devices, such as lighting devices, speakers, printers, such as thermal printers, or electronic display units, such as those implemented using liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens, or electronic paper displays or electrophoretic displays. Modules can also be implemented as non-electronic modules, such as purely placeholders or traditional (non-electronic) shelf rail signs, which, for example, carry product information and / or price information printed on paper or plastic carriers.

[0011] If such a module is implemented as an electronic device, it can autonomously provide its functions at its location or connect to an electronic network.

[0012] Fully autonomous electronic devices have their own power supply units, such as solar panels, replaceable batteries, or rechargeable batteries. However, the power supply unit can also be achieved through other means, such as the application of Power-Over-WiFi technology, which allows power to be supplied via radio signals over a longer distance, or the application of NFC (Near Field Communication) or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, which allows power to be supplied directly at the carrier device over a relatively short distance.

[0013] The supply of communication technology for electronic devices, i.e., data transmission and / or signal transmission toward and away from the device, can also be achieved in different ways. For example, each device can have its own radio module that enables communication according to (at least in fact) standardized communication methods (such as ZigBee, WiFi, WLAN, etc.) or proprietary communication methods (such as those disclosed in WO2015 / 124197A1). Here, each electronic device typically communicates with an access point that is radio-technically associated with the electronic device through prior registration. Multiple access points typically supply a group of electronic devices and provide a bridge to a server or cloud-based management instance, where management software is executed, from which coordination or actual operation or inquiry of the devices can proceed.

[0014] However, for the purpose of supplying communication technology (and, if possible, energy), a central supply device can be provided for each carrier device. This central supply device supplies power to the electronic devices carried at the carrier device either in a contact manner, i.e., via electrical lines (such as those integrated into the carrier device), or in a contactless manner, i.e., via capacitive coupling or, in particular, inductive coupling (such as in the case of NFC or RFID). This supply device then forms an interface to one of the access points mentioned above. In the case of wired coupling with the supply device, each electronic device can have a corresponding contact portion by which it contacts the lines (preferably integrated into the carrier device). In the case of contactless coupling with the supply device, each electronic device can have a corresponding coupling device, such as a capacitor plate or inductor or coil, along with associated adapter networks and electronic circuitry.

[0015] Finally, it should be noted that the supply units can also be connected to the communication network via cables. The same applies to the energy supply department, where, for example, a central power grid may be installed for a group of supply units to provide energy.

[0016] The position that can be understood as maintaining the position is one in which the module remains stationary relative to the carrier after it has been placed in or at the carrier without further operation.

[0017] The location that can be understood as the extraction location is the position from which the module can be extracted from or removed from the carrier.

[0018] Within the receiving space, the module is positioned in the holding position, which is at least slightly offset from the taking position.

[0019] The module and the carrier are constructed or coordinated with each other such that the module is movable between a retrieved position and a held position. Therefore, the module can be, for example, movable, tiltable, or pivotable. Mobility can be limited to a single type of movement, such as limited to mobility alone, or it can include or allow multiple sequences of movements, such as tilting, tilting, pivoting, or moving. This results in at least one singular offset movement by which the module can be moved from the held position to the retrieved position (and, if possible, back to the retrieved position). The offset of the module between the held and retrieved positions is essentially still within the carrier, i.e., within the shape boundaries or defined receiving space of the carrier, in which the module is received.

[0020] These measures according to the invention allow knowledgeable personnel, such as sales personnel or maintenance technicians (who are informed of the existence of the two locations and know that the module can only be removed from the carrier via the removal location), to quickly and easily remove the module (e.g., for replacement, transfer to another location, or maintenance), while the removal of the module from the carrier unintentionally or without permission by other personnel, i.e., unknowing personnel, is excluded or substantially prevented, as they typically do not possess the necessary expertise.

[0021] Other, particularly advantageous designs and extensions of the invention will be described in other parts of this disclosure.

[0022] The carrier and module can be configured such that the module's mobility from the holding position to the take-out position (and vice versa, if possible) requires multiple different sequences or orders of motion to perform the offset of the module from one position to another. Therefore, the carrier and module can be configured such that, for example, an initial tilting motion and subsequent movement, or, for example, an initial movement of the module and subsequent tilting, are necessary for the module to move from the holding position to the take-out position.

[0023] However, preferably, the carrier and the module can be configured such that the module can only move from the holding position to the taking position by means of a substantially unambiguous sequence of motion or unambiguous order of motion.

[0024] It should be noted that the movements exemplarily mentioned, namely tilting and moving, can also occur in combination, so that the module can or must tilt and move simultaneously to reach the removal position. It is also possible that these movements must each occur within the defined values ​​of applicable parameters, for example, the module tilting between 25° and 30° and / or, for example, the module moving 3 to 7 mm in a specific direction. The (at least partial) superposition of different sequences or orders of movements can also be structurally caused by the size or shape of the supporting device or module.

[0025] The structural coordination between the various construction schemes can be advantageously implemented in such a way that the support device is constructed such that the width of the extraction opening is smaller than the corresponding dimension (such as the height) of the module.

[0026] Therefore, the coordination of the dimensions of the carrier and the module, with their mutual target orientation, ensures that the module can move or shift within the carrier, i.e., within the receiving space, between two positions: a holding position and a removal position. Here, because the size of the removal opening, i.e., the width of the removal opening, is slightly smaller than the corresponding size of the module (this size of the module is hereinafter referred to as the module's height), the removal opening prevents the module from being removed directly from the carrier by moving away from the orientation wall, i.e., moving substantially normal to the orientation wall towards the removal opening, from the holding position. Because the width of the removal opening is determined to be slightly too small relative to the module's height, the module is blocked at the edge of the removal opening, i.e., held within the receiving space, when moving from the holding position or attempting to do so.

[0027] Of course, the same applies when looking at the facts from the opposite perspective, i.e., if the height of the module is chosen to be slightly larger than the width of the extraction opening.

[0028] Given that the extraction opening is noteworthy, the extraction opening can be formed, for example, by rods or strips that define the extraction opening, these rods or strips being spaced apart from each other and correspondingly spaced apart from the orientation wall, extending substantially parallel to the orientation wall, and specifically parallel to the longitudinal extension.

[0029] However, it has proven advantageous that the support device itself defines the extraction opening in a defined manner by its shape. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous that the support device has at least two limiting walls, namely a first limiting wall and a second limiting wall, which surround the orientation wall on both sides along the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall and extend substantially transversely to the orientation wall, particularly forming a C-shaped profile together with the orientation wall, wherein the extraction opening is defined by the free ends of the limiting walls.

[0030] In this regard, it should be noted that the meaning of "lateral" can be understood as follows: the boundary wall does not necessarily have to be oriented at a 90° angle with the orientation wall, but can also be oriented at a different angle with the orientation wall, that is, it can extend obliquely toward each other or extend relatively curved toward each other.

[0031] It has proven advantageous that the free ends of the limiting walls are oriented toward each other. These free ends form the edges of the carrying device in the form of lips and thus lip-define the extraction opening, wherein, from the extraction opening, the receiving space opens toward the orientation wall, and this receiving space has a greater width, i.e., the width of the extraction opening between the lips.

[0032] According to another aspect of the invention, a first boundary wall has a module receiving groove adjacent to the orientation wall, the module receiving groove extending parallel to a longitudinal extension of the orientation wall and configured to partially receive the module in the removal position. This module receiving groove allows the module to be offset away from the holding position and towards the removal position.

[0033] In its held position, viewed from the receiving space, the module completely covers the width of the take-out opening. If the module has, for example, a screen, the screen is substantially unobstructed by the edge of the take-out opening. Thus, the screen is surrounded by the edge of the take-out opening at the opposite screen edge. However, if the module is submerged in the module receiving slot, the screen edge that is positioned adjacent to the module receiving slot shifts into the receiving space after the following edge of the inner support device, which defines, positions the receiving opening, and is covered by that edge of the support device.

[0034] Preferably, the module receiving slot, viewed from its bottom, is separated from one of the edges of the support device by a step portion, which defines the receiving opening. This step portion causes the module, or the edge of the module closest to the step portion, to have to move towards the orientation wall by the step width before the module can be inserted into the module receiving slot. Therefore, in order to move from the holding position to the removal position, an initial movement of the module or a portion of the module towards the orientation wall is necessary, so that the module is no longer hindered by the step portion in terms of further mobility.

[0035] Particularly preferably, the module receiving slot is constructed such that the module can be recessed so deeply into the module receiving slot with its first side side (such as its lower sidewall) that the opposite side side of the module (such as its upper sidewall) can be pivotally rotated out from the removal opening. Thus, the module receiving slot has a depth that allows the module to be recessed so deeply with one side wall (such as the lower sidewall in the current example) that the other side wall (such as the upper sidewall in the current example) can pass through and sink below an edge of the support device corresponding to the upper sidewall at the limiting removal opening.

[0036] The module can only be removed from the extraction opening when it is offset from the holding position toward the extraction position corresponding to the lateral extension (e.g., substantially parallel to the orientation wall). As described, this movement or offset results in one of the edges of the module now being brought into the free space of the extraction opening (which would otherwise be stopped within the carrier at the edge of the limiting portion forming the extraction opening in the carrier), and the module being able to pivot or tilt out of the receiving space or receiving area prior to this edge and be completely extracted from the receiving space through the extraction opening. Therefore, the distance of the extraction position relative to the holding position should be chosen such that the module moves far enough relative to the edge of the extraction opening so that the module can move out of the extraction opening without problems in the extraction position.

[0037] In this regard, it should also be noted that the sequence of movements or orders discussed for retrieval is the reverse of the sequence used to place the module into the carrier. Therefore, the retrieval position is the same as the placement position, in which the module occupies the placement position and is brought into the placement position when it is placed into the carrier.

[0038] However, the above discussion of the geometry of the support device does not necessarily mean that the module must always be abutted against the orientation wall in the holding position (and possibly in the take-out position). The actual situation can be determined by the shape and / or dimensions of the internal space of the support device (which forms the receiving space and is used to receive the module, and is bounded by the shape of the support device) and / or by the shape and / or dimensions of the module, especially its thickness. For example, these parameters can also be determined such that the module can move laterally normal to the orientation wall within the receiving space.

[0039] The width of the retrieval opening can be adapted to the height of the module's front wall or vice versa. This is advantageous if the module forms a shelf track display, and the front wall is essentially formed by a screen that should be visible unobstructed from the support structure in the holding position. Unaffected by this, such a module can have additional structural features, such as one or more lips on the (upper and / or lower) side walls that prevent the module from being retrieved directly through the retrieval opening from its holding position (as discussed above).

[0040] Finally, regarding the width of the extraction opening, it is mentioned in a completely general sense that the width of the extraction opening is chosen in such a way that the front wall of the module used in the carrier device is well and unobstructed, taking into account the dimensions of the front wall of the module and the functions or motion sequences discussed above.

[0041] According to another aspect of the invention (which can also be considered a separate subject of the invention), the carrier device may have at least one first automatic positioning device, by means of which the module, placed into the carrier device according to a predetermined arrangement, can be automatically positioned in a holding position. For example, such an automatic positioning device may be implemented by means of one or more springs, which may act on one side of the placed module, for example, from one side (such as supported at the carrier device itself, particularly at the bottom of the module receiving slot), and push or press the module into the holding position. Similarly, a leaf spring or the like may also be used to position the module in the aforementioned location and achieve the same effect.

[0042] In principle, the same applies to the module. Therefore, according to another aspect of the invention, the module has at least one second automatic positioning device, by means of which the module, when placed into the carrier device as prescribed, can be automatically positioned in a holding position. The second automatic positioning device can also be constructed similarly to the automatic positioning device of the carrier device. However, the second automatic positioning device determines its position within the module. Preferably, the second automatic positioning device determines its position in an edge region of the module (e.g., in the region of the lower sidewall), which is furthest from the edge region (e.g., the region of the upper sidewall) that is closest to the holding position.

[0043] In a system consisting of a carrier device and modules, the first automatic positioning device can be installed without a second automatic positioning device, and vice versa. However, two automatic positioning devices can also be installed together.

[0044] According to another aspect of the invention (which can also be considered an independent subject of the invention), the first automatic positioning device is formed by at least one first magnetic positioning device, by means of which a module, which is placed into the carrier device according to a predetermined method, can be automatically positioned in a holding position by means of the magnetic force acting between the module and the carrier device.

[0045] Essentially, in solutions based on magnetic interactions that exert attraction, the modules are also equipped accordingly. Therefore, it has proven advantageous that the second autopositioning device is formed from at least one second magnetic positioning device. Preferably, the second autopositioner determines its position in the edge region of the module, particularly preferably in the region of the module's rear wall or adjacent to the rear wall, wherein the rear wall is defined for orienting the module at the orientation wall.

[0046] This achieves the following: a module in the insertion position (or removal position) (positioned and released by a person's hand) is automatically, without prior human intervention, pulled into the holding position by magnetic force alone, moving towards and reaching that position, where it is also fully magnetically secured. This is because, as it approaches the holding position, the distance between the magnetically interacting components decreases until a minimum distance is achieved in the holding position. Therefore, the maximum magnetic holding force is present when the holding position is reached. Furthermore, positioning the magnetic positioning device in the region of the module's rear wall ensures that the module's rear wall automatically aligns at the orientation wall.

[0047] Unlike the spring force-based solutions discussed above (such as the spring force caused by a helical spring), the magnetic solution has the advantage that the maximum attraction exists in the holding position because there is the minimum spacing between the elements that are magnetically interacting, while in the spring-based solution, the corresponding spring has the minimum spring force in the holding position because the spring is already relaxed to the maximum extent there.

[0048] In principle, the first magnetic positioning device can be implemented by one or more permanent magnets, which are used, for example, to be equidistantly distributed along the longitudinal extension of the support device.

[0049] However, it is preferable that the first magnetic positioning device in the carrier is implemented by a magnetizable material.

[0050] For securing the holding position within the support device, it has proven particularly advantageous that the magnetizable material is positioned in a restricted manner, preferably in the form of a strip of material, and particularly preferably in the form of a ferromagnetic metal track. The position of the strip of material or the metal track essentially defines the holding position along the lateral extension to which the magnet assembly arranged in the module is attracted.

[0051] Advantageously, the positional limiting magnetizable material, especially a ferromagnetic metal strip, is positioned at the edge region of the orientation wall, preferably along the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall, and particularly preferably along the entire longitudinal extension of the orientation wall. This ensures that there are no limitations on the positionability of the module along the longitudinal extension. Furthermore, the module, placed in the carrier device, is automatically transported as far as possible to the edge region of the receiving space and, where possible, reliably (not only positionally but also oriented or conformally) rests against the two inner wall regions of the carrier device through interaction with the adjacent extending limiting wall.

[0052] However, even when the module does not interact with the boundary wall, automatic positioning or orientation of the module can be achieved within the receiving space, more precisely, solely through magnetically based orientation of the module, obtained by the proper positioning of at least two magnets within the module. These two magnets orient the module such that each of the two magnets maintains a minimum distance from the first magnetic positioning device of the carrier. For this purpose, the material strip or metal track is preferably also positioned along the orientation wall at a sufficient distance from the boundary wall.

[0053] To achieve the best possible automatic positioning or orientation, it has proven particularly advantageous to integrate the first magnetic positioning device substantially flush with the inner surface of the carrier, especially into the orientation wall. This prevents the module from skewing or getting caught during its automatic positioning or orientation induced by magnetism.

[0054] Especially in the case of wire-shaped, slab-shaped, or track-shaped constructions of magnetizable materials, it has proven advantageous for the orientation wall to have a receiving well section into which the magnetic positioning device is placed. This allows for simple installation and reliable and reproducible fixation of the magnetizable material's position.

[0055] In terms of the module, it has proven advantageous that the second magnetic positioning device is implemented using at least one permanent magnet. The magnet can be positioned within the module housing, in or adjacent to the rear wall.

[0056] Preferably, the at least one second magnetic positioning device is formed by two permanent magnets spaced apart from each other along the rear wall of the module to define its position. This measure improves the magnetic attraction force, which facilitates automatic positioning, and also improves the automatic orientation of the module within the carrier, as has been indicated.

[0057] According to another aspect of the invention, the module has a rear wall with at least two different rear wall orientations. Preferably, the rear wall has a first rear wall segment and a second rear wall segment, the first rear wall segment extending substantially parallel to the front wall of the module, the second rear wall segment oriented obliquely from the first rear wall segment toward the front wall, and wherein the two rear wall segments meet along a line (especially extending in a straight line) that extends parallel to the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall in the module carried by the carrier as specified. This configuration offers the advantage that the module held in the holding position (in this case, the first rear wall segment is held flat at the orientation wall, for example by magnetic force) is initiated into a tilting movement around the dividing line by manually pressing it onto the second rear wall segment, thereby lifting the first rear wall segment from the orientation wall. This reduces the holding force of magnetic interaction by adjusting the spacing with the orientation wall, and the module can be moved more easily from the holding position to the removal position.

[0058] The ratio of the dimensions of the corresponding rear wall segments, measured in a direction corresponding to or parallel to the lateral extension of the orientation wall, can be chosen such that the second rear wall segment is shorter than the first rear wall segment. Therefore, the structure of the rear wall segments can serve as a transformation structure for overcoming magnetic forces, wherein movement at one end of the module is transformed into a larger movement at the opposite end of the module, and a correspondingly larger gap is obtained between the first and second magnetic positioning devices.

[0059] The tilting motion is achieved through the corresponding design (e.g., size and shape) of the receiving spaces adjacent to one (e.g., the upper) end and the other (e.g., the lower) end of the module. Specifically, the distance between the lip of the carrier device adjacent to or defining the module receiving slot and the orientation wall of the carrier device is slightly greater than the module thickness at that end of the module. The depth of the module receiving slot at that end of the module allows for a non-contact tilting away from the lip relative to the bottom of the module receiving slot toward the orientation wall.

[0060] At the other end of the module (which is adjacent to the other lip of the carrier device), the inner wall of the receiving area is constructed such that, during tilting motion, the area of ​​the module there can move away from the orientation wall toward the lip without problems, i.e., as little friction, tilting, or snagging as possible can occur at the inner wall.

[0061] When the support device is configured with a step between the module receiving slot and the take-out opening, this tilting motion also causes the portion of the module that was previously above the step (in the example discussed, the lower sidewall or the rib or slat there) to move over the edge of the step, thereby realizing the movement of the module from the holding position toward the take-out position.

[0062] According to another aspect of the invention, the carrier is constructed such that a module, which is inserted into the carrier as intended, can be at least partially, and in particular completely, removed from the orientation wall in the direction normal to the orientation wall and positioned in an intermediate position. This intermediate position is characterized by a reduced magnetic attraction due to the increased distance from the orientation wall compared to the holding position, allowing the module to move along the carrier in the longitudinal direction of the carrier without being removed from the take-up opening. Here, the module can slide along the lip of the carrier.

[0063] It cannot be removed from the extraction opening in this position because the intermediate position is different from the extraction position, and in the intermediate position, the module is blocked by the edge or ridge of the extraction opening by the supporting device due to the movement in the direction normal to the orientation wall.

[0064] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings discussed below. Attached Figure Description

[0065] The invention will now be explained in detail again with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, but the invention is not limited to these embodiments. Here, the same parts are given the same reference numerals in different drawings. The examples are illustrated in an illustrative manner: Figure 1A The invention illustrates a load-bearing device constructed as a shelf track; Figure 1B A module constructed as a display unit according to the present invention is shown; Figures 2 to 5 The display units are shown in different positions along the shelf track; Figure 6 A perspective view showing two display units in different positions along the shelf track; Figure 7A This shows a cross-sectional view of the display unit; Figure 7B Another cross-sectional view of the display unit is shown; Figure 8A Another embodiment of the module constructed as a display unit according to the present invention and the carrier device constructed as a shelf track according to the present invention are shown; Figure 8B Another illustration shows the display unit and shelf rails; Figures 9 to 11 Another embodiment of the module constructed as a display unit according to the invention and the carrier device constructed as a shelf track according to the invention are shown, wherein the display unit is located in different positions in the shelf track; Figure 12 Another illustration shows the shelf rails and display unit, with exemplary dimensions or exemplary scale. Detailed Implementation

[0066] exist Figure 1A The image shows a support device configured as a rack track 1, which is designed to support... Figure 1B The display unit 10 shown is shown. The shelf track 1 has an orientation wall 3. In addition, the shelf track 1 also has a first boundary wall 4 and a second boundary wall 5. The shelf track 1 is made of a non-magnetic, shape-stable material (such as plastic or aluminum) and is constructed in one piece, so that the first and second boundary walls 4 and 5 can respectively transition into the orientation wall 3.

[0067] At the ends of clearance walls 4 and 5, the cross-section of the rack track 1 has a first protrusion 6 and a second protrusion 7, respectively, which extend as a continuous lip along the entire rack track 1. The first protrusion 6 forms the end of the first clearance wall 4, while the second protrusion 7 forms the end of the second clearance wall 5. The shape of the rack track 1 in its cross-section or when viewed from the side (as shown) Figure 1A As shown in the diagram, it corresponds to a C-shaped profile. Between the first protrusion 6 and the second protrusion 7, a removal opening 8 is formed along the shelf track, through which the display unit 10 can be placed into the shelf track 1 or removed from the shelf. Therefore, the inner wall of the shelf track 1 defines a receiving space that opens towards the removal opening 8. This receiving space is used to receive the display unit 10.

[0068] Whether the shelf track 1 is open or closed at its left edge or left end, or at its right edge or right end, is a matter of construction or installation and is irrelevant to the invention discussed herein. When the shelf track 1 is used, for example, in a business setting, the display device 10 is generally inserted into or removed from it via the access opening 8. If the shelf track 1 is designed to be open laterally, it is of course possible to push the display unit 10 into or out of the shelf track there, but this is irrelevant to the invention discussed in this patent application and is mentioned here only for completeness.

[0069] The first boundary wall 4 is constructed such that it has a module receiving slot 9, which extends substantially along the entire longitudinal extension. The module receiving slot 9 limits or defines the pivoting range for the display unit 10 and is sized such that a portion of the display unit 10 can be received in and pivot within the module receiving slot.

[0070] The first boundary wall 4 also has a step portion 23 that protrudes from the bottom of the module receiving groove 9 toward the first protrusion 6 and is formed at an intermediate level between the bottom of the module receiving groove 9 and the outer edge of the first protrusion 6.

[0071] exist Figure 1A The diagram also shows a metal track 2, which forms a first magnetic positioning device for magnetically-based automatic positioning. The metal track 2 is positioned in the region of the shelf track 1 where the orientation wall 3 transitions into the second clearance wall 5. To receive the metal track 2, the orientation wall 3 has a receiving shaft portion 20 extending substantially along its entire longitudinal extension, into which the metal track 2 is placed or clamped. Furthermore, the second clearance wall 5 has beveled positioning strips 21 extending substantially along its entire longitudinal extension, which hold the metal track 2 in place within the receiving shaft portion 20.

[0072] In addition, the second boundary wall 5 also has a deflection groove 22 that extends substantially along the entire longitudinal extension, into which the edge region of the display unit 10 can be deflected.

[0073] The rear side of shelf track 1 will not be discussed further in the current context. At this point, it will only be mentioned that the rear side of the shelf track can be constructed for connection with another part of the shelf, such as a part of the bottom of the shelf.

[0074] exist Figure 1B In the diagram, the module that matches the shelf track 1 is shown as a display unit 10. The display unit 10 has a front wall 18 with a screen 19 integrated into the front wall 18 and thus forming part of the front wall. The screen 19 is configured as an electronic paper screen.

[0075] The display unit 10 has electronic components 26 arranged therein (see also...). Figure 7A and 7B The electronic device controls or supplies power to the screen 19 and provides other functions, such as radio communication with the access point, however, these other functions are not further discussed in this patent application.

[0076] The display unit 10 has a rear wall 13. The rear wall 13 includes a first rear wall segment 14 and a second rear wall segment 15, wherein the first rear wall segment 14 extends substantially parallel to the front wall 18. Compared to the first rear wall segment 14, the second rear wall segment 15 is inclined toward the front wall 18, in the illustrated embodiment, at approximately 9°. Thus, the display unit 10 can tilt around the area where the first rear wall segment 14 transitions into the second rear wall segment 15. The dividing line between these rear wall segments 14 and 15 is constructed as a straight line and is a tilting edge. When the display unit is placed with its rear wall 13 against a plane (e.g., orientation wall 3), the display unit 10 can tilt around this tilting edge.

[0077] In addition, the display unit 10 has two magnets 12A and 12B (see also...) Figure 7A and 7B The two magnets form a second magnetic positioning device for automatically positioning the display unit 10 in the shelf track 1 based on magnetic force. Magnets 12A and 12B are placed inside the display unit 10 at the rear wall 13 along the edge of the display unit 10 near the corner of the housing, i.e., placed relative to each other with the largest possible distance. However, the magnets can also be positioned in other locations, but spaced apart from each other.

[0078] As in Figure 1B As can be seen, the display unit 10 has a first sidewall 24 and a second sidewall 25, which connect the rear wall 13 and the front wall 18 at oppositely arranged positions (opposite ends of the display unit 10). The first sidewall 24 has a first slat 16 located near the front wall 18. A second slat 17 is constructed at the opposite sidewall 25, which ends substantially flush with or adjacent to the rear wall 13. The spacing between the first slat 16 and the second slat 17 is greater than the spacing between the first protrusion 6 and the second protrusion 7.

[0079] To clarify the directional indications, a coordinate system is further shown, the orientation of which is particularly evident in the perspective view. Figure 6 As can be seen in the diagram, the coordinate system at this time (orthogonal) is a coordinate system in which the x-direction extends parallel to the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall 3, that is, also parallel to the longitudinal extension of the shelf track 1, into the drawing plane; the y-direction extends parallel to the lateral extension of the orientation wall 3 in the drawing plane; and the z-direction extends normally to the orientation wall 3 in the drawing plane. The y-direction points from the region of the orientation wall 3 adjacent to the first boundary wall 4 toward the region of the orientation wall 3 adjacent to the second boundary wall 5. The z-direction points from the orientation wall 3 toward the extraction opening 8.

[0080] The following section will discuss the insertion of the display unit 10 into the shelf track 1 and the removal of the display unit 10 from the shelf track 1. To this end, in Figures 2 to 4 The diagram shows the different positions of the display unit 10 during the insertion process or insertion movement, and the different positions during the removal process or removal movement in reverse order. For clarity, some reference numerals have been omitted from the visualization.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the insertion of the display unit 10 begins by inserting the display unit 10 into the module receiving slot 9 with its lower end facing forward (i.e., with the first slat 16 facing forward) while being grasped by a person's (not shown) hand, while simultaneously keeping the upper end (i.e., the second slat 17) forward out of the shelf track 1. Thus, the display unit 10 is oriented at an angle relative to the orientation wall 3, away from it. The first slat 16 is positioned at the bottom of the module receiving slot 9, i.e., below the step portion 23. In this position and orientation, the display unit 10 can then be inserted into or introduced into the receiving space.

[0082] like Figure 3A As shown, the pivoting area in the module receiving slot 9 is used to allow the second slat 17 to move through the second protrusion 7 into the receiving space, i.e., through the removal opening 8, until the second rear wall section 15 is oriented or abutting against the orientation wall 3. In this position, the second rear wall section 15 is oriented parallel to and abutting against the orientation wall 3. In this position, the display unit is in the insertion position, which is in fact the same as the removal position.

[0083] Once in the insertion position, the user can release the display unit 10, and the magnetic attraction between the two magnets 12A and 12B and the metal track 2 will automatically pull the display unit 10 further into the receiving space of the shelf track 1, and therein... Figure 4 The orientation and fastening are shown in the holding position. As mentioned, this final movement sequence is performed automatically without manual operation by the user. In this movement sequence, the first rear wall section 14 tilts relative to the orientation wall 3, while the second rear wall section 15 is lifted away from the orientation wall 3. Essentially simultaneously, a movement parallel to the orientation wall 3 toward the second boundary wall 5 occurs until the final holding position is reached. During this movement sequence, the distance between the magnets 12A and 12B on one side and the metal track 2 on the other side continuously decreases, and the magnetic force exerting the attraction increases until it reaches its maximum value in the holding position, where the distance between the magnets 12A and 12B and the metal track 2 is minimal.

[0084] In the current situation, movement toward the second boundary wall 5 is restricted by the orientation of the wall inside the second boundary wall 5 and its interaction with the adjacent area of ​​the display unit 10.

[0085] In this holding position, the first rear wall section 14 is oriented parallel to the orientation wall 3 and rests against the orientation wall.

[0086] If an untrained person attempts to remove display unit 10 from shelf track 1 and instinctively moves it in the z-direction away from orientation wall 3, the first slat 16 is blocked at the first protrusion 6. Consequently, display unit 10 tilts around the contact point between the first slat 16 and the first protrusion 6, causing the second slat 17 to move toward the second protrusion 7 and be blocked there. The shape of the adjacent internal region of the protrusion 7 prevents movement in the positive y-direction in this position. Furthermore, in this position, the step portion 23 prevents movement of display unit 10 in the negative y-direction. Therefore, display unit 10 is in... Figure 5 In the blocking position shown, the display unit 10 is blocked and cannot be removed from the shelf track 1 by further pulling at the display unit through the take-out opening 8, nor can it move up or down. Movement back into the receiving space is possible, but this directly leads to an increase in the magnetic attraction force, which in turn leads to positioning in the holding position. Because the increase in the magnetic attraction force occurs very rapidly, it is almost entirely impossible for the person holding the display unit 10 to compensate for it when it is released.

[0087] As in Figure 5 As can be seen, the dimensions of the shelf track 1, especially the dimensions of the retrieval opening 8 and the display unit 10, are so well-coordinated that the possibility of removing the unit from the blocking position through the retrieval opening without causing damage is eliminated. If the display unit 10 is released again in the blocking position, the display unit (as already mentioned) will autonomously, i.e., automatically, move back to the holding position under the attraction of a magnetic force (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0088] In order to remove the display unit 10 from the shelf track 1 without damage, the sequence of movements described in connection with placement must essentially be performed in reverse order. For this purpose, from Figure 4 Starting from the holding position shown, by gently pressing against the front wall 18 of the display unit 10, the display unit 10 is tilted in the area where the second rear wall section 15 is formed on the rear wall 13, thereby pressing the second rear wall section 15 against the orientation wall 3. During this movement, the magnets 12A and 12B are moved away from the metal strip 2, thus reducing the magnetic attraction between them. Since no movement along the negative y-direction has occurred, the display unit 10 is tilted relative to the second protrusion 7 with the second strip 17 tilted. The display unit is then in a position... Figure 3BIn the intermediate position shown, the display unit 10 rests against the orientation wall 3 with the second rear wall section 15 as in the removed position. The first slat 6 is pivoted away from the step portion 23. Next, the tilted display unit 10 can move from the intermediate position along the orientation wall 3 in the negative y direction until the first slat 16 rests against the first boundary wall 4, specifically at the bottom of the module receiving slot 9, and the display unit 10 is in the middle position. Figure 3A The removal position is shown. In this position, the second strip 17 can move past the area below the second protrusion 7.

[0089] Now, the display unit 10 can be tilted from the removal position to... Figure 2 In the position shown, that is, with its upper end tilted out through the take-out opening 8, and then completely removed from the shelf track 1.

[0090] exist Figure 6 In the diagram, the first display unit 10A is in a holding position on the shelf track 1, while the second display unit 10B, located behind it, is in a position where it is pivoted out or tilted out through the removal opening 8. This is shown in perspective.

[0091] exist Figure 7A In the diagram, the display unit 10 is drawn in a side view, wherein the wall of the display unit 10 is shown in such a sectional view that the electronic device 26 and one of the two magnets 12B can be seen. It can be clearly seen here that the magnets 12A and 12B are placed or held in a support, for example, pressed or glued into the support.

[0092] exist Figure 7B In the diagram, the display unit 10 is drawn facing the rear wall 13, with a portion of the first rear wall 14 shown in cross-section to expose a portion of the electronics 26 and two magnets 12A and 12B. It can be clearly seen here that magnets 12A or 12B are positioned almost at the corner of the display unit 10 at their upper edges. This positioning facilitates the automatic magnetic orientation of the display unit 10 within the shelf rail 1 while maintaining its position. This results in the optimal orientation of the display unit 10, which is as parallel as possible to the longitudinal extension of the shelf rail 1, so that even side-by-side display units 10, or modules in general, can be perfectly oriented within the shelf rail 1 without misalignment or different orientations. Therefore, a perfect and neat appearance can be achieved, which is important not only for operators of retail establishments such as supermarkets but also for customers entering and exiting them.

[0093] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8BAnother embodiment of the display unit 10 and the associated shelf track 1 is shown, wherein the display unit 10 and the shelf track 1 are sufficient to function without magnetic positioning devices, but their coordinated geometry continues to form a coordinated automatic positioning device system under the current orientation of the system consisting of the support device 1 and the display unit 10. The orientation of the shelf track 1 is chosen such that when the display unit is released, the display unit 10 falls into the receiving space alone, i.e. automatically, from the insertion position and from the removal position (the insertion and removal positions are the same), solely under the influence of gravity, and is there transported toward the holding position.

[0094] In this embodiment, the shelf track 1 and, in particular, the orientation wall 3 are oriented at a slight inclination relative to gravitational acceleration, the direction of which is indicated by arrow 27. For example, the shelf track 1 may have this inclination at the front edge of the bottom of the shelf. Advantageously, in the specific display unit 10, the center of gravity 28 is located closer to the second slat 17 than the first slat 16.

[0095] The insertion and removal processes are substantially equivalent to those described in the embodiments mentioned above. Here, the display unit 10 can also be manually positioned by the user into the module receiving slot 9 via the first slat 16. The user can then pivot the display unit 10 within the module receiving slot 9 until the second rear wall section 15 rests against the orientation wall 3. The display unit 10 and the shelf track 1 are coordinated such that when the display unit is released from this position, it autonomously, i.e., automatically, moves to a holding position. The holding position here is also a holding position in which the first rear wall section 14 rests against or is oriented by the orientation wall 3, as is the case here. Figure 8B This motion is visible in the image. It is generated automatically under the influence of gravity, preferably due to the position of the center of gravity 28.

[0096] To remove it, the display unit 10 can now be gently pressed against the front wall 18 in the area formed by the second rear wall section 15, causing the display unit 10 to tilt. The display unit 10 can now move (basically against the acceleration of gravity) along the orientation wall 3 until the display unit 10 reaches the removal position, from which the display unit 10 can be removed from the shelf track 1.

[0097] However, if the display unit 10 is simply pulled from its holding position, that is, if the display unit is simply pulled away from the orientation wall 3 and towards the removal opening 8, then the display unit will be as if... Figure 5 As shown in the diagram and in the description relating to the display unit, the two protrusions 6 or 7 are blocked and cannot be guided through the extraction opening 8.

[0098] Figures 9 to 11 Another embodiment of the display unit 10 and shelf track 1 is schematically shown, wherein the insertion and removal processes are similar to those in... Figures 1A to 5 The insertion and removal processes in the illustrated embodiments are essentially equivalent. The difference is that here (in...) Figures 9 to 11 In the embodiment, the step section 23 is omitted from the shelf track 1. The module receiving slot 9 is correspondingly enlarged, and the inner wall of the shelf track 1 is curved in the area of ​​the module receiving slot 9, so that the display unit 10 can slide in the module receiving slot 9 with the first slat 16.

[0099] In addition, the shelf rail 1 shown here has an assembly structure for assembling the shelf rail 1 onto the shelf.

[0100] exist Figure 9 In the middle, the display unit 10 is in relation to Figure 2 It is shown in the corresponding position.

[0101] exist Figure 10A In the middle, the display unit 10 is in relation to Figure 3A It is shown in the corresponding position.

[0102] exist Figure 10B In the middle, the display unit 10 is in relation to Figure 3B It is shown in the corresponding position.

[0103] exist Figure 11 In the middle, the display unit 10 is in relation to Figure 4 It is shown in the corresponding position.

[0104] In the blocking position (which is also equivalent to...) Figure 5 In the blocking position shown, the area where the first slat 16 and the front wall 18 of the first sidewall 24 are located comes into contact with the first protrusion 6. This contact prevents the display unit 10 from moving from the blocking position in the negative y-direction. The task of the step 23, namely, to restrict the movement of the display unit 10 (especially in the y-direction), is also undertaken by the display unit 10 and other mutually coordinated components of the shelf track 1.

[0105] The shelf track 1 and the display unit 10 can be coordinated with each other so that the tolerances of the insertion or removal movements are within the desired range. Therefore, in the variant with the step 23, the removal movement must be executed more precisely, making it difficult for someone unfamiliar with the system to remove the display unit 10 from the shelf track 1, as they must understand precise movements with small deviations or tolerances to remove the display unit 10. In the variant without the step 23, the sequence of movements is still required to remove the display unit 10. However, because a larger tolerance is chosen here—meaning that partial deviations from the ideal movement can occur within the desired range of motion—a person familiar with the system, such as a store employee, who wants to remove the display unit 10 for maintenance and then reinstall it, can insert or remove the display unit 10 from the shelf track 1 with a smooth and quick movement.

[0106] exist Figure 12 The diagram illustrates exemplary dimensions or proportions for the display unit 10 and the shelf track 1 in the holding position. Here, the display unit 10 has a first height H1 that (in the holding position) extends along the y-direction from the first sidewall 24 to the second sidewall 25. The first height H1 also substantially corresponds to the dimension of the front wall 18 along the y-direction. In this example, the first height H1 corresponds to 43 mm.

[0107] The shelf track 1 has a second height H2 along the y-direction between the first slat 6 and the second protrusion 7, i.e., along the take-out opening 8. The second height H2 is slightly greater than the first height H1, so that the display unit 10 can be positioned between the two protrusions 6 and 7 with the front wall 18 in the holding position. Here, the second height H2 is 43.5 mm.

[0108] The display unit 10 has a third height H3 along the y-direction (viewed in the holding position) between the outermost regions of the first slat 16 and the second slat 17. The third height H3 is greater than the second height H2, thereby preventing the display unit 10 from being pulled out of the shelf track 1 in the blocking position (along the z-direction). Here, the third height H3 is 46 mm.

[0109] The shelf track 1 has a fourth height H4 along the y-direction, which represents the total height of the shelf track 1 (including the assembly structure), i.e., reflects the spacing of the outermost area along the y-direction. Here, the fourth height H4 is approximately 53 mm.

[0110] The second rear wall section 15 is inclined at an angle α relative to the first rear wall section 14, thereby enabling tilting between said positions (as described). The angle α is approximately 9°.

[0111] The display unit 10 has a first width B1 along the z-direction (in the holding position), which extends between the first rear wall section 14 and the front wall 18. The first width B1 here corresponds to 8.3 mm.

[0112] The shelf track 1 has a second width B2 along the z-direction between the outermost point of the orientation wall 3 and the first protrusion 6. The second width B2 is chosen here to be slightly larger than the first width B1, so that in the holding position, the display unit 10 is surrounded by the shelf track 1, and the first protrusion 6 and the second protrusion 7 slightly protrude from the front wall 18 and protect the front wall, for example, from impact loads.

[0113] The shelf track 1 has a third width B3, which is essentially the material thickness of the shelf track. For example, areas with special shapes to meet other requirements (such as assembly structures or positioning strips 21) may have a different material thickness than the third width B3. Here, the third width B3 is 1.2 mm.

[0114] These dimensions exemplify how the supporting structure or shelf track 1 and the module or display unit 10 can be coordinated with each other. The dimensions shown herein have proven particularly advantageous in testing for display units of this size range. However, those skilled in the art can adapt the dimensions and proportions accordingly or make different choices to, for example, adapt modules and supporting devices of different proportions to each other or to vary the movement sequences used for insertion and removal.

[0115] Finally, it should be noted again that the accompanying drawings described in detail above only relate to the following embodiments, which can be modified in various ways by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. For completeness, it should also be noted that the use of the indefinite articles "a" or "an" does not preclude the possibility that the relevant feature may exist multiple times.

Claims

1. A support device (1) for supporting a module (10), wherein, The support device (1) has an orientation wall (3) for orienting the module (10) placed in the support device (1), and the orientation wall (3) has a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension extending normally to the longitudinal extension. The supporting device (1) is constructed such that... - The module (10) inserted into the carrier device (1) according to the specification is capable of moving within the carrier device (1) between a take-out position and a holding position corresponding to or along the lateral extension of the orientation wall (3), in which the module (10) is oriented at the orientation wall (3); and - The shape or cross-section of the support device (1) forms a take-out opening (8) spaced apart from the orientation wall (3), and the module (10) can only be taken out from the support device (1) from the take-out position through the take-out opening, and, - The support device (1) has at least one first automatic positioning device (2), by means of which the module (10) placed into the support device (1) according to the specified position can be automatically positioned in the holding position. The first automatic positioning device (2) is formed by at least one first magnetic positioning device. With the aid of the first magnetic positioning device, the module (10) that is placed in the carrier device (1) according to the specification can be automatically positioned in the holding position by means of the magnetic force acting between the module (10) and the carrier device (1).

2. The supporting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The support device (1) is constructed such that the width of the extraction opening (8) is smaller than the corresponding size of the module (10).

3. The supporting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The bearing device (1) has at least two limiting walls (4, 5), and the limiting walls (4, 5) surround the orientation wall (3) on both sides along the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3) and extend transversely to the orientation wall (3), wherein the extraction opening (8) is limited by the free end of the limiting walls (4, 5).

4. The supporting device (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The free ends of the boundary walls (4, 5) are oriented toward each other.

5. The supporting device (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The first boundary wall (4) has a module receiving groove (9) adjacent to the orientation wall (3), the module receiving groove extending parallel to the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3) and configured to partially receive the module (10) in the take-out position.

6. The supporting device (1) according to claim 5, wherein, The module receiving slot (9) is constructed such that the module (10) can be sunk so deeply into the module receiving slot (9) with its first side side so that the opposite side of the module (10) can be pivotally rotated out from the take-out opening (8).

7. The supporting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The magnetic positioning device (2) is implemented using a magnetizable material.

8. The supporting device (1) according to claim 7, wherein, The magnetizable material is positioned in a limited manner, and the magnetizable material is in the form of a strip of material.

9. The supporting device (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The magnetizable material, which is limited in position, is positioned at the edge region of the orientation wall (3).

10. The supporting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The magnetic positioning device (2) is integrated flush with the inner surface of the bearing device (1).

11. The supporting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The orientation wall (3) has a receiving well section (20), and the magnetic positioning device (2) is inserted into the receiving well section.

12. The supporting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The support device (1) is constructed such that the module (10) inserted into the support device (1) according to the design can be at least partially removed from the orientation wall (3) in the direction normal to the orientation wall (3) and can be positioned in the middle position.

13. The supporting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The supporting device (1) is a shelf track.

14. The supporting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The module (10) is an electronic device.

15. The supporting device (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The bearing device (1) has at least two limiting walls (4, 5), and the limiting walls (4, 5) surround the orientation wall (3) on both sides along the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3) and extend laterally to the orientation wall (3), and together with the orientation wall (3) form a C-shaped profile, wherein the extraction opening (8) is limited by the free end of the limiting walls (4, 5).

16. The supporting device (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The magnetizable material is in the form of a ferromagnetic metallic track.

17. The supporting device (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The position of the magnetizable material, which is limited in terms of location, is determined along the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3).

18. The supporting device (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The position of the magnetizable material, which is limited in terms of location, is defined along the entire longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3).

19. The supporting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The magnetic positioning device (2) is integrated flush with the orientation wall (3).

20. The supporting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The support device (1) is constructed such that the module (10) inserted into the support device (1) according to the specification can be completely removed from the orientation wall (3) in the direction normal to the orientation wall (3) and can be positioned in the middle position.

21. A module (10) configured to be carried by a carrier (1), wherein, The support device (1) has an orientation wall (3) for orienting the module (10) placed in the support device (1), and the orientation wall (3) has a longitudinal extension and a transverse extension extending normally to the longitudinal extension. The supporting device (1) is constructed such that... - The module (10) inserted into the carrier device (1) according to the specification is capable of moving within the carrier device (1) between a take-out position and a holding position corresponding to or along the lateral extension of the orientation wall (3), in which the module (10) is oriented at the orientation wall (3); and - The shape or cross-section of the support device (1) forms a take-out opening (8) when spaced apart from the orientation wall (3), and the module (10) can only be taken out from the support device (1) by passing through the take-out opening from the take-out position. The module (10) has a first dimension, which corresponds to the lateral extension of the orientation wall (3), and the first dimension is larger than the width of the extraction opening (8) and smaller than the lateral extension of the orientation wall (3). The module (10) has at least one second automatic positioning device (12A, 12B), which enables the module (10) to be automatically positioned in the holding position when placed into the carrier device (1) according to the specified method. The second automatic positioning device (12A, 12B) is formed by at least one second magnetic positioning device. With the aid of the second magnetic positioning device, the module (10) that is placed into the carrier device (1) according to the specification can be automatically positioned in the holding position by means of the magnetic force acting between the module (10) and the carrier device (1).

22. The module (10) according to claim 21, wherein, The at least one second magnetic positioning device (12A, 12B) is formed by two permanent magnets that are spaced apart from each other and positioned along the rear wall (13) of the module (10).

23. The module (10) according to claim 21, wherein, The module (10) is an electronic device.

24. The module (10) according to claim 21, wherein, The module (10) is an electronic shelf display sign.

25. The module (10) according to claim 21, wherein, The module is designed to be carried by a shelf track.

26. The module (10) according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein, The module (10) has a rear wall (13) having at least two rear wall orientations that are different from each other.

27. The module (10) according to claim 26, wherein, The rear wall (13) has a first rear wall section (14) and a second rear wall section (15), the first rear wall section extending parallel to the front wall (18) of the module (10), and the second rear wall section oriented obliquely from the first rear wall section (14) toward the front wall (18), wherein the two rear wall sections (14, 15) meet along a line that extends parallel to the longitudinal extension of the orientation wall (3) in the module (10) carried by the bearing device (1) as specified.

28. A system having a carrier (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and at least one module (10) according to any one of claims 21 to 27.

Images