Electronic shelf rail system with shelf rail and supply device

Abstract

A supply device for supplying power and / or data to a rack rail and / or at least one electronic device mounted on the rack rail, comprising: an electronic coupling device for electronic coupling with the rack rail; and a mechanical coupling device, separate from the electronic coupling device, for mechanical coupling of the supply device to the rack rail, wherein the mechanical coupling device has a snap-fit ​​connection structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electronic shelf track system with shelf rails and a supply device. Background Technology

[0002] Such shelf rail systems are known, for example, from WO2022188955A1. Here, a support device, particularly implemented as a shelf rail, is provided, configured to support electronic equipment. This support device is connected to a supply device that provides electrical power and data supply. Power or data supplied by the supply device is supplied to electronic equipment fastened to the support device (or shelf rail) via wiring from the support device (or shelf rail). The electronic equipment may be, for example, an electronic display unit. Through the measures disclosed in the patent application, the electronic equipment can be installed quickly, both mechanically and logically. In recent years, the demand for shelf rails and the use of shelf rails and the electronic equipment fastened thereto in the retail sector have increased significantly. However, with the increase in the number of shelf rails and equipment installed, the importance of installation and / or maintenance costs also increases. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a shelf track, a supply device, and an electronic shelf track system, wherein installation costs are reduced.

[0004] This task is solved by the supply device according to claim 1. Therefore, the subject of this invention is a supply device for electrically and / or in communication technology supplying electronic equipment mounted on a rack track, wherein the supply device has an electronic coupling device for electronic coupling with the rack track and a separate mechanical coupling device for mechanical coupling of the supply device to the rack track, wherein the mechanical coupling device has a snap-fit ​​connection structure.

[0005] This task is also solved by the rack rail according to claim 8. Therefore, the present invention relates to a rack rail for carrying and electrically and / or in communication technology supplying at least one electronic device, wherein the rack rail has an electronic coupling mating structure for electronic coupling with a supply device and a separate mechanical coupling mating structure for mechanically coupling the supply device to the rack rail, wherein the mechanical coupling mating structure has a snap-fit ​​mating structure.

[0006] This task is also solved by the electronic shelving track system according to claim 13. Therefore, the present invention relates to an electronic shelving track system having a supply device according to the invention and shelving tracks according to the invention.

[0007] The shelf rails are configured to electrically connect the supply unit to electronic equipment in order to supply electrical power to the electronic equipment and / or enable data communication.

[0008] The advantage of the measures of this invention is that the rack rail system can be installed quickly and easily, and no tools are required for this purpose.

[0009] Other particularly advantageous designs and improvements of the invention are derived from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0010] The shelving tracks and supply units are constructed for mechanical coupling that achieves shape-fitting connections via snap-fit ​​links.

[0011] The rack rail has conductor lines for transmitting electrical power and / or information. These conductor lines can be configured as optical conductors, for example. Preferably, the conductor lines are electrically conductive. The conductor lines are secured to a conductor carrier. In the installed state of the rack rail system, the conductor lines are contacted by an electronic coupling device of the supply unit.

[0012] Preferably, the conductor line, especially at its end sections, forms or has an electronic coupling pairing structure. The electronic coupling device preferably has a spring element for contacting the electronic coupling pairing structure, especially for direct contact with the conductor line.

[0013] Preferably, the rack rail has a central bridging section that separates the front side of the rack rail (where at least one electronic device, particularly an electronic display device, can be positioned) from the rear side. The central bridging section has a snap-fit ​​mating structure. This allows for a compact snap-fit ​​connection mechanism without significant additional cost. An energy storage device is preferably positioned on the rear side of the rack rail. The central bridging section can also be interpreted as a reference wall where the electronic device can be positioned. Preferably, the central bridging section faces rearward, i.e., toward the rack, defining the area where the electronic device is carried. Preferably, the central bridging section is also configured to mechanically support the electronic device. Particularly preferably, the central bridging section is configured to form a form-fitting connection with the electronic device, particularly by means of a hook.

[0014] The central bridging section can be a conductor carrier. Preferably, the central bridging section is constructed separately from the conductor carrier and positioned at a distance from it. Particularly preferably, the conductor carrier has conductor lines oriented toward the central bridging section. Preferably, the conductor lines extend on the side of the conductor carrier oriented toward the central bridging section and / or extend within the conductor carrier, particularly parallel to the longitudinal extension of the central bridging section along the rack track.

[0015] Shelf rails are designed for installation on shelves, and particularly for installation at the front of the bottom of the shelf, or forming the front end of the bottom of the shelf. Shelf rails can also be installed on other structures such as sales counters.

[0016] Electronic devices can be, for example, sensor devices or detection devices, such as temperature sensor devices, camera devices, or radar sensor devices. Preferably, the electronic device is an electronic display device, especially an electronic product display device and / or a price display device. Such a product display device and / or price display device can be configured as an electronic shelf label, known by the English name "Electronic Shelf Label" or abbreviated as ESL.

[0017] When electronic equipment is installed on the shelf rails, it comes into contact with conductor lines and is thus electrically supplied with power by the supply unit and / or can communicate data with the supply unit.

[0018] Preferably, the supply device is configured as a rail-control unit, or "Rail-Controller" in English. Preferably, the supply device has a communication level for preferably wireless, and particularly preferably radio-based, communication with external units (e.g., access points). Using this communication level, for example, device data for the device can be received, or device data can be transmitted from the device to the external unit. Thus, for example, display data for display on an electronic display device, especially product information and / or price information, can be received, and sensor data or detection data from sensor devices can be sent or transmitted. Furthermore, the supply device preferably has a control level for, particularly for, individually or in groups, controlling and addressing electronic equipment mounted on the rails. Preferably, the control level is configured to control the electronic equipment or group of electronic equipment based on device data. The supply device also has a power supply unit or supply voltage generating electronics for electrically supplying the electronic equipment mounted on the rails.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, a mechanical coupling device is configured to position the supply device at the end section of the longitudinal extension of a shelf track. The shelf track is also configured for this purpose. For this purpose, the supply device and the shelf track are configured such that, upon connection, the snap-fit ​​connection structure and the snap-fit ​​mating structure guide towards each other, hooking together and thus securing the supply device at the desired position at the end section of the longitudinal extension of the shelf track. There, the supply device forms the end of the combination of the shelf track and the supply device.

[0020] For this purpose, the racking rail and the supply device may, for example, each have a contact surface or contact edge. Through the mutual contact of the contact surface and / or contact edge, a defined space is provided for the supply device at the end section of the racking rail, allowing the snap-fit ​​connection structure to engage the snap-fit ​​mating structure, thus creating a clearly defined and stable connection between the supply device and the racking rail. Therefore, the supply device and the racking rail engage with each other, on the one hand via the contact surface or contact edge and on the other hand via the snap-fit ​​connection structure and the snap-fit ​​mating structure, resulting in a substantially gapless connection between the supply device and the racking rail. Thus, the supply device and the racking rail snap together during installation and form a stable unit. Therefore, this measure further improves the simple and problem-free installability of the racking rail system by eliminating misalignment.

[0021] Shelving track systems, supply units, and shelving tracks can be configured to achieve non-releasable snap-fit ​​connections. For this purpose, the snap-fit ​​connection structure and the snap-fit ​​mating structure can be designed to be inaccessible and positioned. This provides a shelving track system that, after simple installation, is particularly resistant to damage and intentional acts.

[0022] However, it has proven particularly advantageous that the racking rail system, as well as the supply unit and racking rail construction, is designed to allow for releasable snap-fit ​​connections. This enables quick and simple maintenance. Individual components of the racking rail system can also be replaced, thereby reducing the environmental impact.

[0023] According to a preferred configuration, the mechanical coupling device of the supply unit is configured for releasable coupling or connection with the rack rails. Preferably, the mechanical coupling mating structure is also configured for this purpose. This releasability not only allows for simple installation but also simple maintenance, as system components can be easily replaced. Therefore, it also reduces material requirements and environmental impact.

[0024] The snap-fit ​​connection (i.e., snap-fit ​​connection structure and snap-fit ​​connection mating structure) can be configured to achieve torsion snap-fit ​​connection, ring snap-fit ​​connection, ball joint connection and / or annular snap-fit ​​connection. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection (i.e., snap-fit ​​connection structure and snap-fit ​​connection mating structure) is configured as a bendable hook connection.

[0025] Therefore, it has proven advantageous that the mechanical coupling device of the supply unit has a bendable hook. The bendable hook allows for a compact implementation of the mechanical coupling device. Simultaneously, this ensures a safe and error-free installation process, as no additional parts or tools are required for installation. Furthermore, the mechanical coupling mating structure of the rack rails can also have bendable hooks, especially alternatively or additionally.

[0026] However, it has proven particularly advantageous that the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure is constructed with an opening or has an opening.

[0027] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure is configured as an opening extending through the central bridging portion or having an opening extending through the central bridging portion. This opening can be, for example, a hole, notch, or aperture. This opening allows for simple manipulation of the snap-fit ​​connection—by manipulating the bendable hook from the front of the rack rail—to release the connection, and thus allows for simple maintenance of the rack rail system. The positioning of the opening within the central bridging portion also allows for particularly good accessibility of the snap-fit ​​connection, and thus allows for particularly easy maintenance or particularly easy release of the connection.

[0028] Preferably, the opening is created by a separation method, particularly a punching or cutting method (e.g., drilling). This has the advantage that the shelf rails can be manufactured in a continuous manufacturing process (e.g., in an extrusion process).

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, it has proven advantageous that the snap-fit ​​connection structure has a cylindrical, tapered, or truncated tapered coupling element, particularly wherein the supply device is configured for mechanical connection with the rack track via the circumferential surface of the coupling element. Here, the coupling element can be configured as an oblique or straight cylinder, cone, or truncated tapered shape. Thus, the coupling element functions as the hook of the snap-fit ​​connection.

[0030] Preferably, the coupling element has a curved bottom surface, especially a circular bottom surface. Therefore, when the supply device is coupled to the rack track, the supply device automatically centers and is pulled into the desired position. This further optimizes the installation process.

[0031] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure has a corresponding bottom surface. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure has an opening with the corresponding bottom surface, i.e., preferably also has a curved bottom surface, especially a circular bottom surface. This allows for easy operation of the snap-fit ​​connection through the shelf rails, especially through the central bridging section of the shelf rails.

[0032] It has been proven advantageous that the opening of the snap-fit ​​mating structure of the shelf track has a diameter that is essentially the width of a finger, preferably a diameter of a circular cross-section, especially between 3 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 15 mm, and particularly preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0033] This allows for simple, tool-free manipulation of the snap-fit ​​connection, enabling it to be released with a simple touch of the fingertip.

[0034] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that in electronic racking track systems, the snap-fit ​​connection structure and the snap-fit ​​mating structure are configured to engage with each other substantially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the racking track. Therefore, the electronic racking track system particularly effectively prevents movement along the longitudinal extension of the racking track. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection structure and the snap-fit ​​mating structure are configured to engage with each other substantially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the racking track and perpendicular to the central bridging portion.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, the snap-fit ​​connection structure is at least partially, preferably entirely, implemented as a housing element of the supply device, particularly a portion of the housing wall. Therefore, the connection can be easily manufactured because it is implemented directly at the housing. Thus, this measure provides a supply device that is easy to manufacture, easy to install, and space-saving. Preferably, a portion of the housing element forms an arm of the snap-fit ​​connection structure, particularly a bendable hook arm.

[0036] Particularly preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection structure is at least partially, preferably entirely, implemented as part of the housing element of the supply device, and is partially, especially U-shaped, separated from the surrounding housing by a gap. Therefore, the housing is preferably partially, especially gap-shaped, open around the snap-fit ​​connection structure. It has been shown that, contrary to expectations, this has not resulted in increased contamination, as the gap is covered by the shelf rails in the installed state. Thus, this measure provides a surprisingly easy-to-manufacture mechanical coupling device that can operate without concern despite the gap in the housing.

[0037] Furthermore, the supply device is preferably constructed such that, during coupling with the shelf track, the supply device is pulled toward the shelf track. For this purpose, for example, the snap-fit ​​connection structure can be positioned such that, when the snap-fit ​​connection structure, especially the arm of the snap-fit ​​connection structure, deforms, the coupling element is pressed against the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure in such a way that the supply device is pulled toward the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure.

[0038] According to one aspect of the invention, the racking track has an equipment housing structure configured to house and retain electronic equipment, such that the electronic equipment covers the snap-fit ​​mating structure, particularly the opening. Therefore, the snap-fit ​​mating structure (and the snap-fit ​​connection structure therein) is covered from the front by the electronic equipment. The electronic equipment is distinct from the supply device. Preferably, the electronic equipment covers the snap-fit ​​mating structure, particularly the opening, in such a way that manipulation of the snap-fit ​​connection structure and thus release from it is prevented. These measures prevent the supply device installed on the racking track from being removed by unauthorized or untrained personnel, either because the snap-fit ​​mating structure is invisible or even completely inaccessible. Therefore, these measures provide a racking track system that is resistant to damage and vandalism while being easy to install and maintain.

[0039] Another aspect concerns power supply. For example, the supply unit can be powered wirelessly, for example via radio. The supply unit can also be powered wiredly, for example via a power adapter. To provide the simplest possible installation, it has proven advantageous for electronic rack track systems to incorporate energy storage devices. For example, the energy storage device can be integrated into the supply unit.

[0040] However, it has proven particularly advantageous that the electronic racking system has an energy storage device for storing electrical energy and providing electrical power, wherein the energy storage device is coupled to the supply device, particularly by means of a snap-fit ​​connection. Therefore, the energy storage device is preferably constructed separately from the supply device, yet can be coupled to it. Thus, the supply device can be installed onto the racking track together with the energy storage device, and preferably can also be removed together. This allows for simple and quick installation and maintenance of all components. Furthermore, it enables maintenance of the energy storage device, such as replacement, from one side of the racking track.

[0041] Finally, it should be generally mentioned that the electronic devices discussed (supply devices, electronic equipment, etc.) certainly possess electronic components. These electronic components can be constructed discretely, through integrated electronic components, or through a combination of both. Microcomputers, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), combined with analog or digital electronic peripherals, may also be used. Many of the functions mentioned in the device's functionality—wherein, in conjunction with hardware components—are implemented by means of software implemented on the processor of the electronic device. Devices constructed for radio communication typically have antenna configurations for transmitting and receiving radio signals as part of a transceiver module. Electronic devices may also have internal power supplies, which may be implemented, for example, using replaceable or rechargeable batteries. These devices may also be powered wired, either via an external power adapter or also by means of "Power over Ethernet".

[0042] These and other aspects of the invention are illustrated by the accompanying drawings discussed below. Attached Figure Description

[0043] 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. Specifically: Figure 1 The shelf track system is shown; Figures 2A to 2C The supply unit of the shelf track system is shown from different viewing directions; Figure 3 The rear of the racking track system is shown; Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the rack rail system is shown; Figures 5A to 5B Another sectional view of the rack rail system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Figure 1 An electronic shelf track system 1 is shown, comprising a supply device 2 and a shelf track 3. The shelf track 3 carries two electronic devices 4 configured as electronic display units 4. The electronic display unit 4 is also referred to as an "Electronic Shelf Label," or ESL 4 for short. The shelf track 3 has three conductor lines 23 (not visible here, but see [reference needed]). Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5A (See Figure 5C). Through these conductor lines, on the one hand, the electronic device 4 is supplied with electrical power from the supply device 2, and on the other hand, data can be communicated between the device 4 and the supply device 2. The conductor lines 23 form the electronic coupling pairing structure 27 of the shelf track 3, and are connected by the electronic coupling device 16 of the supply device 2 (not visible here, but see...). Figures 2A to 2C Electrical coupling or conductive contact (see) Figure 4 ).

[0045] The supply device 2 has a mechanical coupling device 6, separate from the electronic coupling device 16, for mechanically coupling the supply device 2 to the shelf track 3, wherein the mechanical coupling device 6 has a snap-fit ​​connection structure 7. The snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 has a cylindrical coupling element 10.

[0046] The shelf track 3 has a mechanical coupling pairing structure 8, which is separate from the electronic coupling device 16, for mechanically coupling the supply device 2 to the shelf track 3. The mechanical coupling pairing structure 8 has a snap-fit ​​pairing structure configured as an opening 9.

[0047] The rack rail 3 has a central bridging section 5 that separates the front side (where the ESL 4 is positioned) from the rear side of the rack rail 3. The central bridging section 5 has a snap-fit ​​connection mating structure (i.e., an opening 9) that is implemented as a hole passing through the central bridging section 5.

[0048] The opening is circular and has a diameter of 8mm. For example... Figure 1As can be clearly seen, the coupling element 10 engages with the opening 9, and this coupling element also has a circular bottom surface and fits into the opening 9 with a small gap. Therefore, the coupling element 10 mechanically connects the supply device 2 to the shelf rail 3 via its circumferential surface. The coupling element 10 is constructed such that, in the coupled state, it forms a substantially flat surface with the shelf rail 3, specifically with the central bridging portion 5, at the front side of the shelf rail. This allows the shelf rail 3 to be equipped with the device 4 without obstruction at any location.

[0049] The rack track 3 has a device housing structure 11 configured to house and hold electronic devices 4. The device housing structure 11 extends substantially along the entire longitudinal extension of the rack track 3 and is configured to house and hold additional electronic devices 4 in addition to the two already held electronic devices 4, or, in the case of a longer rack track 3, to house and hold multiple additional devices 4. The associated devices 4 can even be positioned to cover the opening 9, making the opening 9 and coupling element 10 no longer visible and inoperable.

[0050] The mechanical coupling device 6, and in particular the mechanical coupling element 10, and the mechanical coupling mating structure 8 (specifically the opening 9) are constructed and positioned such that when the supply device 2 is inserted into the shelf rail 3 during the installation of the electronic shelf rail system 1, the mechanical coupling device 6 and the mechanical coupling mating structure 8 position the supply device 2 relative to the shelf rail 3 at the end section of the shelf rail 3 extending longitudinally. The shape of the coupling element 10 and the opening 9, particularly through the curved bottom periphery and thus the curved circumference, precisely defines the position of the supply device 2 and provides a safe and stable connection.

[0051] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C The supply device 2 is shown, wherein, Figure 2A A perspective view is shown. Figure 2B A side view of the supply device 2 is shown, which shows the supply device 2 in the installed state as a view viewed from below. Figure 2C A top view of the supply device 2 is shown, which depicts the supply device 2 from the front in its installed state. Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2CThe mechanical coupling device 6 is visible, which has a snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 with a coupling element 10. The supply device 2 has a housing 15. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 has a spring arm 12. The snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 is implemented as part of the housing element 13, that is, part of the housing 15 of the supply device 2. The snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 is surrounded by a slit-like opening 14 in the housing 15 of the supply device 2, which separates the portion of the housing element 13 configured as the snap-fit ​​connection structure 7 from the surrounding housing 15. The slit-like opening 14 is U-shaped.

[0052] Electronic components 26 are located inside the housing 15 and are exposed and visible through the opening 14. However, when the supply device 2 is coupled to the shelf track 3, the slit-like opening 14 is covered by the central bridging portion 5, thereby reliably protecting the electronic components 26 from contamination.

[0053] Also visible here is the electronic coupling device 16 of the supply device 2, which is configured for electronic coupling with the shelf track 3. The electronic coupling device 16 has three spring contacts 17, which are configured to contact the conductor lines 23 of the shelf track 3.

[0054] The supply device 2 also has an energy storage device coupling device 18 for mechanical and electronic coupling with the energy storage device 20. The energy storage device coupling device 18 has a spring contact 19 for electronic coupling with the energy storage device 20. At the rear side of the supply device (see...) Figure 3 The supply device 2 has a snap-fit ​​mechanism 21 for mechanical coupling with the energy storage device 20.

[0055] Figure 3 The electronic shelving track system 1 is shown in a line of sight slightly below right towards the rear of the shelving track 3. For clarity, the shelving track 3 is shown in a section perpendicular to its longitudinal extension. The supply device 2 is coupled to the energy storage device 20 via an energy storage device coupling device 18. The energy storage device coupling device 18 is connected to the energy storage device 20 via a snap-fit ​​connection and has a lever 22 for releasing the snap-fit ​​connection. The snap-fit ​​connection is constructed such that when the energy storage device 20 is pushed into the supply device 2 along the rear of the shelving track 3 towards the supply device 2, the snap-fit ​​connection automatically engages.

[0056] For maintenance, the energy storage device 20 can be disassembled together with the supply device 2 by manipulating the coupling element 10 of the supply device 2, i.e., pulled off from the shelf rail 3. Therefore, it is not necessary to grab the shelf rail 3 from the rear to remove the energy storage device 20. The same applies to inserting the combination of the energy storage device 20 and the supply device 2 into the shelf rail 3.

[0057] However, the energy storage device 20 can also be detached from the supply device 2 mounted on the shelf track 3 by means of the lever 22, or the energy storage device can be coupled to the supply device 2 mounted on the shelf track 3.

[0058] Therefore, it not only enables rapid installation for specific situations, but also rapid disassembly for specific situations, thereby reducing the maintenance costs of the rack rail system 1.

[0059] In addition, Figure 3 In the view, conductor lines 23 can be seen, which are carried by conductor carriers 24 and oriented toward the central bridging portion 5.

[0060] also, Figure 3 The grid-like opening 25 of the equipment receiving structure 11 of the shelf track 3 is shown. Electronic devices 4 introduced into the shelf track 3 are engaged in the grid-like opening 25 and are thus held in the desired position.

[0061] Figure 4 A cross-section of the electronic rack track system 1, perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the rack track 3 through the supply device 2, is shown in the electronic coupling device 16. The spring contacts 17 are doubly curved and thus each has a U-shape. Therefore, the spring contacts 17 emerge from the plane of view, forming an arc to the left, and there re-enter the plane of view with their free ends. At the free ends of the spring contacts, the spring contacts 17 contact the conductor lines 23, which here form the electronic coupling pairing structure 27.

[0062] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The shelf track system 1 is shown in a longitudinal section perpendicular to the shelf track 3 at the height of the electronic device 4. The electronic device 4 has three spring contacts 28 for contacting the conductor lines 23. Furthermore, the electronic device 4 has a hook 29 for coupling with the device housing structure 11, and a button 30 for releasing the hook 29. If the electronic device 4 is moved from... Figure 5A The position shown moves toward shelf track 3 and moves to Figure 5B In the position shown, hook 29 engages with one of the grid-like openings 25 of the device housing structure 11, thereby securing the electronic device 4 in place, and spring contact 28 contacts conductor line 23 and is thus electrically connected to supply device 2. In this position, electronic device 4 is supplied with electrical power by means of supply device 2, and, if necessary, with communication technology. By pressing button 30, hook 29 retracts into electronic device 4, allowing electronic device 4 to be removed again from shelf track 3.

[0063] If the electronic device 4 is fastened to the device receiving structure 11 at the snap-fit ​​mating structure (i.e., opening 9), the device 4 covers the opening 9. Therefore, assembly and disassembly can be performed entirely without tools. However, this also provides protection against damage caused by untrained personnel.

[0064] Finally, it should be noted again that the accompanying drawings described in detail above are merely embodiments, and these embodiments 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 "an" or "a kind" does not preclude the existence of related features multiple times.

Claims

1. A supply device (2) for electrically and / or communicationally supplying electronic equipment (4) mounted on a rack rail (3), wherein, The supply device (2) has - An electronic coupling device (16) for electronic coupling with the shelf track (3), and - A mechanical coupling device (6), separate from the electronic coupling device (16), for mechanically coupling the supply device (2) to the shelf track (3), wherein, + The mechanical coupling device (6) has a snap-fit ​​connection structure (7).

2. The supply device (2) according to claim 1, wherein, The mechanical coupling device (6) is configured to position the supply device (2) at the end section of the longitudinal extension of the shelf track (3).

3. The supply device (2) according to claim 2, wherein, The mechanical coupling device (6) is configured to be releasably coupled or connected to the shelf track (3).

4. The supply device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The mechanical coupling device (6) has a bendable hook.

5. The supply device (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein, The snap-fit ​​connection structure (7) has a cylindrical, conical, or truncated conical coupling element (10), and in particular, the supply device (2) is configured to be mechanically connected to the shelf track (3) via the circumferential surface of the coupling element (10).

6. The supply device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, The coupling element (10) has a curved bottom surface, especially a circular bottom surface.

7. The supply device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The snap-fit ​​connection structure (7) is at least partially, preferably entirely, implemented as a housing element (13) of the supply device (2), especially a part of the housing wall.

8. A rack rail (3) for carrying and electrically and / or communicationally supplying at least one electronic device (4), wherein, The shelf track (3) has - An electronic coupling pairing structure (27) for electronic coupling with the supply device (2), and - A mechanical coupling pairing structure (8), separate from the electronic coupling pairing structure (27), for mechanically coupling the supply device (2) to the shelf track (3), wherein, + The mechanical coupling pairing structure (8) has a snap-fit ​​pairing structure.

9. The shelf track (3) according to claim 8, wherein, The shelf track (3) has a central bridging section (5) that separates the front and rear sides of the shelf track (3), at least one electronic device (4), especially an electronic display device (4), can be positioned at the front side, and wherein the central bridging section (5) has the snap-fit ​​connection mating structure.

10. The shelf track (3) according to claim 9, wherein, The snap-fit ​​connection pairing structure is configured as an opening (9) extending through the central bridging portion (5).

11. The shelf track (3) according to claim 10, wherein, The opening (9) has a diameter that is essentially the width of a finger, particularly between 3 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 15 mm, and especially preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm.

12. The shelf track (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The shelf track (3) has an equipment housing structure (11) configured to house and hold electronic equipment (4) such that the electronic equipment (4) covers the snap-fit ​​mating structure.

13. An electronic shelf track system (1), which has - The supply device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and - The shelf track (3) according to any one of claims 8 to 12.

14. The electronic shelf track system (1) according to claim 13, wherein, The snap-fit ​​connection structure (7) and the snap-fit ​​mating structure are configured to engage with each other substantially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the shelf track (3).

15. The electronic shelf track system (1) according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein, The electronic shelf track system (1) has - An energy storage device (20) for storing electrical energy and providing electrical power, wherein the energy storage device (20) is coupled to the supply device (2) in particular by means of a snap-fit ​​connection.

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