SALES STAND WITH IDENTIFICATION ELEMENT FOR PRESENTATION OF ONE OR MORE PRODUCTS

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a display unit suitable for presenting one or more products, in particular cosmetics, and advertising the product(s) at a point of sale, the display unit comprising at least one module intended for presenting at least one set of products, the display unit comprising a frame.

[0002] The invention also relates to a method for presenting one or more products in order to advertise the product(s) at a point of sale, using such a display.

[0003] A cosmetic product is advantageously a product as defined in Regulation EC No 1023 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated 30 November 2009, relating to cosmetic products.

[0004] Such displays are generally found in various numbers at points of sale and take various forms adapted to the products: counter displays, drawer systems, wall systems, gondola, etc. Each display is used to present one or more sets of products, generally corresponding to product families. The cosmetic product sets are presented in display modules dedicated to them for a certain period of time.

[0005] To manage product presentation, a distribution plan, or "planogram," is used for the display, i.e., a presentation, generally visual, of the layout of the products in the display. This "planogram" provides the list of products and their locations. It is accompanied, for example, by paper strips to be applied to the display to indicate product characteristics, including prices. "Planograms" are generally managed upstream by product suppliers (the brands attached to the products) and typically change up to four to six times a year, depending on the season, fashion, etc.

[0006] Such displays, organized by "planograms," are generally satisfactory, but their management remains complex and relies on the availability and goodwill of the staff who install them. The number of changes per year is in fact limited to four to six. In addition, there is a risk of error in product presentation: obsolete products may be left in place, or incorrect prices may be displayed, with the legal consequences attached to this type of error. Brands must therefore assume that the "planograms" are properly respected, but have no assurance that this is actually the case.

[0007] Furthermore, in the area of ​​point-of-sale displays, the use of digital means is considered "unmanageable" via Wi-Fi or USB.

[0008] The need to modify the digital display using a USB protocol involves a long implementation process (preparing a USB key, sending it by post, installing it in the store, restarting the display) and does not allow the brand to check the availability of new content that the seller(s) may not have implemented.

[0009] Implementing content changes via Wi-Fi requires the brand to obtain access to their in-store Wi-Fi infrastructure from each of its distribution networks (large-scale stores, specialty stores, airport environment stores, etc.). This would require the brand to negotiate with each distribution network in order to set up a network in several thousand stores, which is not a scalable solution.

[0010] Cameras are sometimes used to recognize the arrangement of products on shelves. However, this solution remains imperfect and the point of sale does not always allow enough space for the camera(s) to view the entire display(s).

[0011] Similarly, LCD displays, especially 3-inch ones, are sometimes used in display cases.

[0012] Generally speaking, the above-mentioned methods do not resolve the problems of complexity and compliance with "planograms" and have the disadvantage of requiring significant labor upstream of arrival in store, but also during the installation of updates in store.

[0013] Document FR 3 005 521 A1 describes a display known from the prior art.

[0014] An aim of the invention is therefore to provide a display facilitating the implementation of "planograms" and the automation of the latter in a programmatic manner. Currently, the installation and change of graphics (visual, price or product labels) is a manual process that involves printing a graphic, sending it by postal mail and installation by an installer or a salesperson in store. This process can take several weeks, even several months, and involves complex logistics on a large scale. Also, this process does not guarantee the implementation of the graphic change remotely, because one of the links in the installation chain may be faulty (bad installer, no graphics, printing error, etc.).Furthermore, installing a remote graphic change does not guarantee that it was made according to the brand's strategic choices (non-compliance with the position of a product on a display, incorrect installation of a visual, etc.).

[0015] To this end, the invention relates to a sales display suitable for presenting one or more products, in particular cosmetics, and advertising the product(s) at a point of sale, the display comprising at least one module intended for the presentation of at least one set of products, the display comprising a chassis, at least one processing unit comprising a processor and a memory, the module comprising: optionally a reserve comprising a stock of said set of products, a receptacle mounted on the chassis and comprising a detection member, and a product support comprising an identification member representative of the product support, the product support being movable between an uninstalled position, in which the product support is away from the receptacle, and an installed position, in which the product support is received in the receptacle, the detection member being adapted to cooperate with the identification member, when the product support is in the installed position, to identify the product support, and to send to the processing unit information representative of the fact that the identified product support is in the installed position, the memory comprising information which, when executed by the processor, leads the processing unit to send information contained in the memory to a server via a network, and / or to a screen of the display, the information sent relating at least to the set of products associated with the identified product support.

[0016] According to particular embodiments, the display unit comprises one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in all technically possible combinations: the product support comprises at least one test product associated with the set of products; the product support comprises at least one presentation product associated with the set of products; the identification member comprises: a radio tag, a QR code, or an analog electrical circuit; the memory further comprises information which, when executed by the processor, causes the processing unit to: read at least one piece of information contained in the memory, and send the read information to the server, the read information relating to the set of products associated with the identified product support, or representative of the fact that the identified product support is in the installed position, and / or send to the server a request for information concerning the set of products associated with the identified product support, and / or for configuration information of the processing unit,receive said information and write it into the memory; the display further comprises at least one sensor adapted to perform facial detection of a user of the display, and / or a sensor for tracking said stock by visual recognition of the products of said stock; the receptacle comprises a fixed part secured to the frame, a drawer mounted movably on the fixed part, and a sensor adapted to detect an opening or closing of the drawer and send information representative of the opening or closing to the processing unit; the memory comprises information which, when executed by the processor, leads the processing unit to: read new video information contained in the memory, and send the new information to the screen, the new information relating to the set of products associated with the identified product support,or send to the server information representative of the opening or closing; the display unit comprises a geolocation system adapted to geolocate the display unit and provide the processing unit with geolocation information, or an interface allowing a user of the display unit to provide the processing unit with geolocation information; the display unit comprises a button connected to the processing unit, the processing unit being configured to display on the screen information representative of the display unit when the button is actuated by a user of the display unit; the display unit comprises a plurality of modules intended for the presentation of a plurality of sets of products, each of the modules comprising: optionally a reserve comprising a stock of said set of products, or a decentralized processing unit comprising a processor and a memory,either a video management chip connected to the centralized processing unit of the display, a screen connected to the decentralized processing unit or to the chip, a receptacle mounted on the chassis and comprising a detection member, and a product support comprising at least one test product associated with one of the sets of products, the product support comprising an identification member representative of the product support, the product support being movable between an uninstalled position, in which the product support is away from the display, and an installed position, in which the product support is received in the receptacle, the detection member being adapted to cooperate with the identification member when the product support is in the installed position, to identify the product support,and to send to the decentralized processing unit or the display processing unit information representative of the fact that the identified product support is in the installed position, the memory of the decentralized processing unit or the display processing unit comprising information which, when executed by the processor of the decentralized processing unit or the display processing unit, causes the decentralized processing unit or the display processing unit to send to the screen video information contained in the memory,the video information relating to the set of products associated with the identified product support; the display unit comprises a module intercommunication system adapted so that the decentralized processing units or the display unit processing unit receive positioning information: representative of the relative position to each other of the receptacles having product supports in the installed position, and / or for each of the receptacles having product supports in the installed position, representative of the product supports which are in the installed position in those of the receptacles located in a predefined vicinity of said each of the receptacles; the memory of the display unit processing unit or of at least one of the decentralized processing units comprises information which,when executed by the processor of the display processing unit or of at least one of the decentralized processing units, cause the display processing unit or of at least one of the decentralized processing units to: send said positioning information to the server, and / or send synchronized video information to some of the screens; and the memory of at least one of the decentralized processing units associated with one of the receptacles, includes information which, when executed by the processor of at least one of the decentralized processing units, cause the at least one of the decentralized processing units to: send information to another of the decentralized processing units, or to send to the screen associated with it information relating to one of the sets of products associated with one of the product supports received in another of the receptacles.

[0017] The invention also relates to a method for presenting one or more products, in particular cosmetics, at a point of sale in order to advertise the product(s) at the point of sale, using a display, and comprising the following steps: moving the product support between the uninstalled position and the installed position, cooperation of the detection member with the identification member to identify the product support, and to send to the processing unit information representative of the fact that the identified product support is in the installed position, reading, by the processor, of information contained in the memory, and sending, by the processing unit, of information contained in the memory to the server via the network, and / or to the screen, the information relating at least to the set of products associated with the identified product support.

[0018] The invention will be better understood from reading the following description, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which: there Figure 1 is a schematic view illustrating the remote management of a plurality of displays according to the invention, the Figure 2 is a perspective view of a display according to a first embodiment of the invention, the product supports not being shown, and of a communication interface with the server, the Figure 3 is a perspective view of one of the modules of the display shown in the Figure 2 , there Figure 4 is a perspective view of one of the product supports of the display shown in the Figure 2 , there Figure 5 is a schematic view of the display shown in the Figure 2 , there Figure 6 is a schematic view of a display stand according to a second embodiment of the invention. Installation and networks

[0019] In reference to the Figure 1 , an installation 10 is described comprising a plurality of display units 12A, 12B, 12C according to the invention. The installation 10 also comprises a server 14, for example remote, connected to each of the display units 12A, 12B, 12C by a network 16.

[0020] The displays 12A, 12B, 12C are respectively located in sales locations 18A, 18B, 18C, for example cosmetic product stores, or parts dedicated to the sale of products, in particular cosmetics, in larger commercial spaces (not shown).

[0021] According to a variant not shown, points of sale 18A, 18B, 18C comprise more than one display according to the invention.

[0022] In the example shown, the sales locations 18A, 18B, 18C are located in the same country 20.

[0023] According to a variant not shown, the sales locations 18A, 18B, 18C are located in several different countries.

[0024] In the example, server 14 is located in yet another country.

[0025] The network 16 comprises for example at least one telecommunications antenna 22 connected to the server 14, and at least one satellite 24 adapted to communicate with the telecommunications antenna 22. The network 16 also comprises at least one telecommunications antenna 26 located in the country 20 and adapted to communicate with the satellite 24 and connected to a relay antenna 28.

[0026] Communication via the network 16 is advantageously bidirectional (from the server 14 to the displays 12A, 12B, 12C

[0027] The relay antenna 28 is adapted to communicate with antennas 30A, 30B, 30C of the displays 12A, 12B, 12C, for example via a 3G / 4G protocol.

[0028] It goes without saying that, on the Figure 1, the network 16 is represented in a simplified manner, with two telecommunications antennas 22, 26, and a relay antenna 28. In reality, the network 16 can be more complex, in a manner known per se to those skilled in the art of national and international telecommunications, with in particular a greater number of interchangeable antennas. Displays

[0029] Display 12C is for example identical to display 12A and will not be described.

[0030] Display 12B is almost identical to display 12A and will be briefly described below.

[0031] Only the 12A display will be described in detail below, rather with reference to the figures 2 to 4 for structural aspects, and rather in reference to the Figure 5 for functional aspects.

[0032] The display 12A is suitable for presenting one or more products 32, in particular cosmetics, part of which is visible on the Figure 4, and to advertise the product(s) 32 at the point of sale 18A.

[0033] The display 12A comprises a frame 34, a plurality of modules 36 fixed to the frame and advantageously similar to each other, and for example a module 38 slightly different from the modules 36 and also fixed to the frame.

[0034] In the example shown, the display 12A is of the “drawer system” type, the chassis 34 being autonomous and rather vertical, the modules 36 forming drawers as will be seen.

[0035] According to variants not shown, the display 12A belongs to another type, for example a wall system in which the frame 34 is fixed to a wall (not shown), a gondola, a counter display, or other types of displays known per se.

[0036] The display 12A advantageously comprises a “hidden” button 40, for example mounted on the chassis 34 in a location that is not very visible, and a geolocation system 42 also mounted on the chassis.

[0037] The display 12A comprises, for example, an intercommunication system 44 adapted to allow the modules 36 to communicate with each other and advantageously with the module 38, in a manner which will be described below.

[0038] The display 12A advantageously comprises an interface 46 allowing a user (not shown) of the display to send to the server 14 information relating to the display, for example geolocation information of the display, or to receive information.

[0039] According to a particular embodiment not shown, the display 12A comprises only one module, in particular if it is a counter display. Modules

[0040] Each of the modules 36, 38 is respectively intended for the presentation of a set of products 48 corresponding to a subgroup of the products 32 presented by the display 12A.

[0041] In the example shown, there are 10 modules 36 ( Figure 2 ), of which only two are represented on the Figure 5 . The 36 modules are for example organized according to lines or rows superimposed and noted L1 to L4 on the Figure 2 , and according to columns C1 to C3.

[0042] In the example, there are four rows and three columns. Rows L3 and L4 at the bottom have three modules 36, respectively. Rows L1 and L2 at the top have two modules located in columns C1 and C2, respectively.

[0043] Module 38 occupies column C3 and rows L1 and L2. In the example, module 38 occupies a location corresponding in volume to two locations of modules 36.

[0044] In displays 12A and 12C, modules 36, 38 are connected to antennas 30A and 30C respectively by a wireless network, while in display 12B, modules 36, 38 are connected to antenna 30B by wires.

[0045] Since the 36 modules are similar to each other, only one of them will be described below. The differences between the 38 module and the 36 modules will be described next.

[0046] Each of the modules 36 is connected to an electrical source 49A and to the internet network 49B.

[0047] Each of the modules 36 includes a receptacle 50 ( Figure 3 ) mounted on the chassis 34, a product support 52 ( Figure 4 ) comprising for example test products 54 associated with the set of products 48 of the module (stock), and advantageously a reserve 56 adapted to receive a stock of said set of products 48.

[0048] 48 products are usually packaged products.

[0049] The 54 test products are not intended for sale. They are intended to allow a potential customer (not shown) to test one or more products representative of the 48 product set.

[0050] In the example shown, the receptacle 50 comprises a fixed part 58 secured to the frame 34, a drawer 60 mounted movably on the fixed part, and a sensor 62 adapted to detect an opening of the drawer relative to the fixed part.

[0051] The reserve 56 is for example fixed to the rear of the drawer 60 relative to the display stand 12A. The reserve 56 forms for example a housing 64 of parallelepiped shape open towards the top of the display stand 12A. The reserve 56 advantageously comprises a sensor 65 for monitoring said stock, for example an infrared sensor, adapted to carry out visual recognition of the products present in the reserve.

[0052] According to a particular embodiment, the reserve 56 is absent (the module does not have a reserve), as is the case for the module 38 for example. In this case, the module concerned is purely a module for presenting the test products 54. If a customer wants to buy one of the products presented, he contacts for example a seller (not shown).

[0053] The drawer 60 defines an upper housing 66 open upwards and advantageously towards the front of the display stand 12A. The drawer 60 comprises a detection member 68, for example located at the bottom of the upper housing 66. For example on a lower face 70, the drawer 60 comprises a decentralized processing unit 72, and a light source 74 adapted to illuminate one of the modules 36 located below. The drawer 60 advantageously comprises a screen 76 connected to the processing unit 72 and forming for example all or part of a front face 78 of the drawer.

[0054] According to a variant not shown, the display does not include a screen.

[0055] The screens 76 of the modules 36 located on the same line are for example in horizontal continuity with each other.

[0056] As a variant or in addition to the test product(s) 54, the product support 52 comprises one or more presentation products 55 ( Figure 4 ) associated with the product set 48 of the module.

[0057] The presentation product(s) 55 are not intended for sale. They are intended to provide a potential customer (not shown) with visual and / or audio information relating to the products 48 of the module.

[0058] For example, the presentation product 55 is a medium having printed information or a printed image.

[0059] According to another variant (not shown), the product support 52 is devoid of test product 54 and presentation product 55.

[0060] The product support 52 comprises a support 80 advantageously forming one or more housings 82 for the test products 54 and / or for the presentation product(s) 55, and an identification member 84 representative of the product support.

[0061] The identification member 84 is fixed on the support 80.

[0062] According to a variant not shown, the presentation product(s) 55 form(s) one or more printed image(s) extending into the housing(s) 82.

[0063] The product support 52 is movable between an uninstalled position ( Figure 4 ), in which the product holder is away from the receptacle 50, and an installed position (shown diagrammatically on the Figure 5 ), in which the product holder is received in the upper housing 66 of the receptacle.

[0064] The product holders 52 are advantageously interchangeable, in that they can be placed in any of the receptacles 50 of the modules 36. This is symbolized by the arrows 86 on the Figure 5 .

[0065] When the product support 52 is devoid of test product 54 or presentation product 55, i.e. empty, its presence in the installed position is nevertheless detected by means of the identification member 84.

[0066] The support 80 advantageously has a shape complementary to that of the receptacle 50, providing stability to the product support 52 in the installed position.

[0067] In the installed position, the identification member 84 is within detection range of the detection member 68.

[0068] The identification member 84 is for example a radio tag ( RFID tag in English) or an NFC sensor (in English Near Field Communication ).

[0069] According to variants not shown, the identification member 84 is a QR code, or an analog electrical circuit.

[0070] The detection member 68 is connected to the processing unit 72. The detection member 68 is adapted to cooperate with the identification member 84 when the product support 52 is in the installed position, to identify the product support, and to send to the processing unit 72 information representative of the fact that the identified product support 52 is in the installed position.

[0071] When the identification member 84 is an analog circuit, the detection member 68 has connectors (not shown) adapted to cooperate with the identification member to create closed low voltage circuits representative of the product support 52.

[0072] The sensor 62 is for example an accelerometer fixed on the drawer 60, or a distance sensor between the drawer and the fixed part 58 of the receptacle 50. The sensor 62 is connected to the processing unit 72 and adapted to send it information representative of the opening of the drawer.

[0073] Alternatively, the sensor 62 is adapted to send information representative of the closing of the drawer 60.

[0074] The geolocation system 42 is adapted to geolocate the display 12A and to provide the processing unit 72 with geolocation information. The geolocation system 42 comprises, for example, a GPS chip (not shown) or a cellular system adapted to indicate to the server 14 the nearest cell towers and the flow rate relative to each of the towers, and thus to make it possible to calculate a position of the display by triangulation of the neighboring cell towers (not shown, but such as the antenna 28).

[0075] The intercommunication system 44 is advantageously adapted so that the processing units 72 of the display 12A receive positioning information: representative of the relative position to each other of the receptacles 50 having product holders 52 in the installed position, and / or for each of the receptacles 50 having product holders 52 in the installed position, representative of the product holders 52 which are in the installed position in those of the receptacles 50 located in a predefined vicinity of said each receptacle.

[0076] The intercommunication system 44 comprises, for example, cables 87 connecting neighboring modules 36, 38 to each other or optionally wireless connectors (for example magnetic) ensuring communication between the different neighboring sets 36 and 38.

[0077] For example, the predefined neighborhood is ensured by a one-way communication, or optionally two-way communication, on the four nearest neighboring modules (for example top, bottom, right, left). The communication between these four nearest neighbors allows the module 36 or 38 to recognize the presence or absence of a neighbor. If there is a neighbor, the latter exchanges its unique identity defined by the set 72 as well as its relative position (for example top, bottom, right, or left). In fact, the set of relationships makes it possible to dynamically and autonomously establish the relative position of the modules 36 and 38 with respect to each other. Processing units

[0078] The processing unit 72 of each module 36, 38 comprises a processor 88 and a memory 90. The processing unit 72 is adapted to communicate over the Internet via the network 16 with the server 14.

[0079] The memory 90 comprises information which, when executed by the processor 88, advantageously causes the processing unit 72 to send to the screen 76 information, for example video, contained in the memory, the information relating to the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52.

[0080] Advantageously, the memory 90 further comprises information which, when executed by the processor, leads the processing unit 72 to: reading at least one piece of information contained in the memory, and sending the read information to the server 14, the read information relating to the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, or representative of the fact that the identified product support 52 is in the installed position; and / or sending to the server 14 a request for information concerning the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, and / or configuration information of the processing unit 72, to receive said information and write it into the memory.

[0081] According to a particular embodiment, the memory 90 comprises information which, when executed by the processor 88, leads the processing unit 72 to: if the information representative of the opening of the drawer 60 is received, read new video information contained in the memory, and send the new video information to the screen 76, the new video information relating to the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, or send to the server 14 information representative of the opening.

[0082] Advantageously, the memory 90 of the processing unit 72 includes information which, when executed by the processor 88, leads the processing unit 72 to: send said positioning information to the server 14, and / or send synchronized video information to some of the screens 76.

[0083] According to a particular embodiment, the memory 90 of at least one of the processing units 72 associated with one of the receptacles 50 comprises information which, when executed by the processor 88 of at least one of the processing units, leads at least one of the processing units 72 to: send information to another of the processing units 72, or to send to the one of the screens 76 associated with it information relating to one of the sets of products 48 associated with one of the product supports 52 received in another of the receptacles 50. Module 38

[0084] Module 38 is functionally analogous to Module 36 but differs somewhat structurally.

[0085] As already stated, according to a particular embodiment, the module 38 does not include a product reserve.

[0086] The support 80A of the product support 52A forms a tray. The screen 76A is located behind the product support 52A for an observer (not shown) located in front of the module 38.

[0087] The module 38 comprises one or more cameras 92 adapted to recognize the test products 54 present on the support 80A, as is for example explained in the document US 10,643,270.

[0088] The module 38 advantageously comprises a system 94 for facial recognition of a customer (not shown) located in front of the module 38.

[0089] The system 94 is advantageously capable of recognizing specific human attributes such as the face, gender, age, position of the gaze, position of the face in space, position of the body (tracking of arms, legs), and of estimating the activity of the customer (purchase, walking, product observation, oral communication with a salesperson, etc.). The information obtained by the system 94 is for example stored in the processing unit 72 of the module 38.

[0090] Visual recognition of a person or persons can be performed via a specific processing unit dedicated to facial recognition by an artificial intelligence embedded in the processing unit. This processing unit is, for example, specifically programmed to quickly recognize people and their presence around the display. The analysis can take place locally in the display directly without having to send an image of the person via a telecommunications network thanks to the use of a chip dedicated to artificial intelligence.

[0091] The button 40 is for example connected to the processing unit 72 of the module 38, this processing unit being configured to display on the screen 76A information representative of the display stand when the button is actuated by a user of the display stand.

[0092] The information in question is, for example, a QR code 96.

[0093] The interface 46 is, for example, a terminal or a mobile telephone adapted to read this information on the screen 76A.

[0094] The operation of the 12A display will now be described. Recognition of a product support 52

[0095] For example, to create a “planogram”, a user of the display 12A, generally an employee of the point of sale 18A, places the various product supports 52, 52A in their installed position in the receptacles 50 of the modules 36, 38, in accordance with the “planogram”.

[0096] For each of the modules 36, 38 having received a product support 52, 52A, the detection member 68 of the module cooperates with the identification member 84 of the product support to identify the product support, and to send to the processing unit 72 information representative of the fact that the identified product support is in the installed position.

[0097] The processor 88 reads information contained in the memory 90 and the processing unit 72 sends to the screen 76, 76A video information contained in the memory and relating to the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52.

[0098] The video information is advantageously already present in the memory 90.

[0099] Alternatively, the video information to be displayed is obtained from the server 14 via the network 16. To do this, the processing unit 72 sends to the server 14 a request for information concerning the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, receives said information and writes it into the memory 90.

[0100] Thus, the information displayed respectively by each of the screens 76, 76A is consistent with the sets of products 48 and the test products 54 actually presented by each of the modules. Feedback

[0101] The processing unit 72 of the modules 36, 38 reads at least one piece of information contained in the memory 90, and sends the information read to the server 14, the information read relating to the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, or representative of the fact that the identified product support 52 is in the installed position.

[0102] Information retrieval is carried out via network 16. This network is wireless, for example 3G / 4G.

[0103] According to a variant not shown, the network is wired, for example ADSL, or fiber. According to another variant not shown, the network is satellite, or at least partly wired.

[0104] For example, the information is stored dynamically (in real time) in each processing unit 72, and recorded in the form of computer language.

[0105] For security, a technology for encoding this information is advantageously used.

[0106] The transfer of information via a 3G / 4G network with connectivity embedded in the 12A display unit offers the brand the advantage of not having to negotiate network access with the managers of the 18A, 18B and 18C sales locations.

[0107] Thus, the 12A, 12B, 12C displays can be completely independent of the networks of these managers and placed in a secure network (private 3G / 4G network, VPN tunnel, etc.).

[0108] In the event of opening of the drawer 60 of one of the modules 36, the sensor 62 sends to the processing unit 72 information representative of this opening. This information is advantageously stored locally in the memory 90. This information is for example processed locally by the processing unit 72 to calculate a number or an opening time, then sent to the server 14, or else sent without processing.

[0109] The customer facial recognition system 94 (not shown) recognizes the aforementioned specific human attributes, and estimates the customer's activity (for example, one or more of purchasing, walking, observing the test products 54, oral communication with a salesperson, etc.). The measured information is stored in the processing unit 72 of the module 38, then sent, preprocessed or not, to the server 14.

[0110] Each of the sensors 65 of the modules 36 having a stock in the reserve 56 carries out a visual recognition of the products present in the reserve, and transmits the information collected to the processing unit to which it is connected.

[0111] Visual recognition of the product(s) can be carried out via a specific processing unit dedicated to product recognition by an artificial intelligence embedded in the processing unit. For example, this processing unit is specifically programmed to quickly recognize products and their presence in the storage area of ​​the display. The analysis can take place locally in the display directly without having to send an image of the product via a telecommunications network thanks to the use of a chip dedicated to artificial intelligence.

[0112] The camera 92 of the module 38 recognizes the test products 54 present on the support 80A and sends corresponding information to the processing unit 72 of the module 38. Relative positions of modules

[0113] The intercommunication system 44 sends to the processing units 72 of the display 12A the positioning information representative of the relative position with respect to each other of the receptacles 50 having product supports 52 in the installed position.

[0114] For each of the receptacles 50 having product holders 52 in the installed position, the information sent is advantageously representative of the product holders 52 which are in the installed position in those of the receptacles 50 located in a predefined vicinity of said each receptacle.

[0115] The intercommunication system 44, with the processing units 72, allows each of the modules 36, 38 to recognize its closest neighbor(s).

[0116] For example, for a multi-module display like display 12A, for each module, all the modules located around it (360 degrees) are recognized, as well as their unique identity.

[0117] Thanks to this information shared between the modules 36, 38, they recompose the constitution and positioning of each in relation to the others dynamically (in real time) and use this information in the management of scenarios (illustrated later) or in the synchronous distribution of video information. To identify the position of one of the modules in relation to another, a module coordinate system is for example used, such as that defined by lines L1 to L4 and columns C1 to C3. Triggering actions when setting up product supports 52

[0118] The display 12A advantageously includes a scenario manager allowing it to manage different stages resulting from a customer's interaction with the display.

[0119] The display 12A is for example previously configured with these scenarios allowing it to know how to react depending on the interactions occurring at the point of sale 18A. This configuration is stored in the memory 90 and can be modified remotely.

[0120] This scenario manager is at the center of communications between different software programs advantageously present in the processing units 72 and aims to properly translate a message received from a sensor, analyze it and implement corresponding actions.

[0121] For example, when detecting the opening of the drawer 60 of one of the modules 36, the processing unit 72 concerned receives the information representative of the opening, reads new video information contained in its memory 90, and sends the new video information to the screen 76, the new video information relating to the set of products 48 associated with the product support 52 placed in the module whose drawer has just been opened. In other words, the video display on the screen 76 of the module adapts to the fact that the drawer 60 has just been opened.

[0122] According to a particular embodiment, the processing unit 72 of the module whose drawer 60 has just been opened sends information to another of the processing units 72, so that the module corresponding to this other processing unit performs an action such as, for example, turning off or reducing the intensity of the light 74, or displaying particular video content.

[0123] Communication between the different modules 36, 38 of the 12A display is carried out by wire, or wirelessly, according to protocols known in themselves. Geolocation of 52 product supports and displays for receiving specific information

[0124] The geolocation system 42 geolocates the display 12A and provides the processing units 72 with geolocation information, also received by the server 14.

[0125] This information makes it possible to know, for example, the country 20 in which the display 12A is located. Thanks to this information, the server 14, which has access to information on prices charged at the point of sale 18A (by the retailer or the brand), sends this information dynamically to each of the modules 36, 38 depending on the product supports 52, 52A installed in the receptacles 50.

[0126] Alternatively, the location of the display 12A is entered manually, for example when installing the display, using the interface 46, via a mobile application or a website. To do this, the user scans a code on the display, for example the QR code 96, or on the packaging of the display, and indicates the address where the display is installed via a graphical interface. Detecting a product holder in a display containing other product holders - exact location of the product holder in a display

[0127] Thanks to the intercommunication system 44, each module 36, 38 is informed of the relative position of some of the modules with respect to it. Advantageously, each module knows dynamically which product supports 52 are in its immediate environment. The recovery of information concerning the neighboring product supports makes it possible, for example, to inform the brand in real time of the organization of the cosmetic products at the point of sale 18A.

[0128] In addition, the communication established between the different modules allows the customer to be informed about the products present in a local environment. Similarly, the brand can inform the staff at the 18A point of sale of the correct procedure to follow in order to comply with the "planogram". Triggering synchronized actions

[0129] The processing unit 72 sends synchronized video information to some of the screens 76.

[0130] For example, if a customer takes a product A from a first module among the modules 36, 38, and this product is likely to be used in combination with a product B present on a second module, the processing unit 72 of the first module sends information to the processing unit of the second module so that, for example: the light source 74 of the second module is triggered, and / or video information relating to the product B is displayed on the screen 76, 76A of the second module.

[0131] The processing unit 72 of one of the modules advantageously sends synchronized video information to some of the screens 76. This makes it possible to synchronize the video content and create so-called "extended" content. To do this, extended content passing through all the screens of the modules and respecting the relative positioning of one module with respect to another is cut out and distributed to each screen individually and synchronized. Two methods of synchronizing individual content are notably possible: active or passive.

[0132] In active synchronization, the modules communicate in real time with their neighbors present in the network (wireless or wired), one of the modules acts as master, and dictates to the others, the slaves, the procedure to follow. The master sends to the slaves the exact position of the video content that it is currently displaying, as well as the content that it is currently displaying. The slaves are responsible for following the master and ensuring that they are at the same image sequence of the video playing on the master's 76 or 76A screen. In the event that one of the slaves is ahead or behind by one or more image sequences, it passes these image sequences to wait or accelerate towards the master.

[0133] In case the master is no longer in the network, another master is designated in the network. At startup, the position of the master is defined in the network (e.g.: Master position is in C1). This positioning is carried out at startup once the dynamic positioning process has been carried out (relative positions of one set 36 in relation to another) and after verification that the modules in the network are in a position equivalent to the previous / historical positioning. If the master is lost during use of a set of modules, another master is automatically chosen to ensure that all slaves act in accordance with the procedure to be followed.

[0134] In passive synchronization, the modules do not have direct intercommunication in a local network, but via an external telecommunications network, for example 3G / 4G. The positioning management of the video sequences is carried out at the server 14 and each module synchronizes individually. Each module receives the exact moment when such a sequence of video content must be played. Thus, when the processing unit 72 downloads the video content from the server 14, it also downloads the synchronization commands or orders that will allow it to be in synchronization with its close neighbors without having intercommunication with them in a local network. In order to manage this synchronization, the local time of the display corresponds between the different elements of the system, so that the synchronization pre-established by the server is correct and precise, and the synchronizations of the video sequences correspond between the different modules 36 and 38.

[0135] The distribution of specific content to each screen 76, 76A is advantageously linked both to the relative positioning established beforehand, but also to the product supports 52 actually received in each of the receptacles 50. Remote content updates

[0136] The processing unit 72 of a module sends to the server 14 a request for information concerning the set of products 48 associated with the identified product support 52, and / or configuration information of the processing unit 72. The processing unit 72 receives said information and writes it in the memory 90.

[0137] The connection to the server 14 is made via a local network (Wifi / Bluetooth) or external network (3G / 4G network). Each module pre-loads on its memory 90 the content(s) necessary for the use of the module and the management of use cases (for example: what to do when a drawer opens, etc.).

[0138] Alternatively, the contents are downloaded in real time as one of the product holders 52 is brought into the installed position (i.e., is placed in the receptacle 50).

[0139] For example, if a brand wishes to send a new product carrier 52, the unique identification member 84 is recognized by the identification member 68 of the receptacle 50 in which the new product carrier is placed.

[0140] When setting up the product support 52, either the video content relating to the set of products 48 corresponding to the product support is already present in the memory 90 of the module concerned and is displayed directly, or the content has not been loaded and the module automatically downloads the content to its memory via the network set up in the point of sale. Remote module maintenance

[0141] The processing unit 72 sends to the server 14 a request for configuration information of the processing unit 72, receives said information and writes it into the memory 90.

[0142] Thus, maintenance operations are carried out remotely, for example updating content, modifying in-store scenarios / experiences, managing screen brightness, etc. In addition, it is possible to indicate to the point of sale staff if a product support 52 is badly placed or must be removed to comply with a "planogram". Remote verification of the number of openings and closings of a module - preventive stock management

[0143] As explained above, the number of openings and / or closings of the drawer 60 is known. Thanks to this information transmitted to the server 14, it is for example possible to send to the brand an estimate of the use of the drawer 60 of each of the modules, and also of the profitability of such or such product 32 corresponding to one of the product supports 52.

[0144] Thanks to the sensors 65, it is possible to check the stock present in the reserves 56 of the different modules of the display, and thus make it possible to confirm the overall stock present in the display. To do this, an infrared sensor can be used for example. This makes it possible to know the size available in the storage space 56, the processing unit 72 knowing which product support 52 is present on the module 36, it can download the space taken up by the product(s) present in the stock behind the product support 52 from the server 14 and thus be able to calculate the number of remaining stocks. It is thus possible to evaluate the necessary needs for the brand.

[0145] Alternatively, camera-based product recognition, as described in US 10,643,270, is implemented to avoid the use of an infrared sensor. Sending promotional offers to the customer when interacting with the display

[0146] These interactions may include one or more of: drawer opening, drawer closing, product recognition in a dedicated area, facial recognition in a dedicated area.

[0147] The 12A display allows the brand to manage the consequences of a customer's actions on the display as described above. For example, the brand can trigger the display of specific promotional content when a drawer is opened.

[0148] Advantageously, the display unit performs facial detection using the 94 system and displays content specific to the detected customer, for example based on demographic factors (age, gender, consumer mood).

[0149] If true facial recognition is performed, information dedicated to a specific customer can be sent to the consumer when interacting with the display. Of course, this information will be correlated with the products present on the product support or the products located in the local network. The customer database can be downloaded from an external server (for example: server 14) and will be linked to the brand's customer relationship management software. It goes without saying that the software will respect the privacy protection rules implemented in local legislation and will also be aligned with the conditions to which the customer has subscribed via the brand's customer relationship management software. Control by button 40 or interface 46 to check a “planogram”

[0150] The processing unit 72 of the modules may incorporate wireless networks such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, for example. This allows a user to control the display at the point of sale. For example, one of the screens 76, 76A of the display tells the user to connect to a local Wi-Fi network. Once connected, the user scans the QR code 96 displayed by the display and is redirected to a local web page (not shown) allowing them to manage the display. This also allows the management of a "planogram" by the staff at the point of sale. This opens up a range of possibilities for the brand to make the point of sale interactive for the customer while linking this to the products 32 present on the display(s).

[0151] Thanks to the features described above, the display 12A ensures that the video information displayed, for example a sales price, actually corresponds to the test products 54 presented. This facilitates the implementation of “planograms”.

[0152] In reference to the Figure 6 , we will now briefly describe a display stand 112 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The display stand 112 is similar to the display stand 12A shown in the figures 1 to 5 . Similar items have the same reference numerals and will not be described again. Only differences will be described in detail below.

[0153] The modules 36 and the module 38 of the display 112 do not have individual and decentralized processing units 72, but advantageously a video management chip 170.

[0154] Chip 170 of one of the 36 modules (located at the top of the Figure 6) is connected to a single central unit 172 of the display 112 by an incoming video cable 174, and advantageously by an incoming position cable 176.

[0155] Chip 170 of module 36 located in the center of the Figure 6 is connected to chip 170 of the upper module 36 by a video cable 178, and advantageously by a position cable 180.

[0156] Similarly, chip 170 of module 38 (located at the bottom of the Figure 6 ) is connected to the chip 170 of the module 36 in the center by a video cable 180, and advantageously by a position cable 182.

[0157] Thus the modules 36, 38 of the display 112 are connected to each other in cascade.

[0158] The processing unit 172 of the display unit performs with the chips 170 the same functions as each of the processing units 72 of the display unit 12A. The chip 170 allows the transfer of videos as well as commands from the processing unit 172 via a serial computer protocol.

[0159] The position cables perform the same functions as the positioning system 44 of the display 12A and also allow the sending of information allowing the management of use cases specific to the module 36 (for example: if the module 38 has a product 54 which is no longer in the field of vision of the camera 92, this information will be sent to the processing unit 172 which processes this information using the processor 88 and checks whether a command specific to this application exists in the use case management software stored in the memory 90. The latter indicates to it that a module 36 must be switched on in position C2-L2. Consequently, the processing unit 172 sends the command to the top module 36 via the position / command cable 176.

[0160] The display 112 operates in a similar manner to the display 12A, except that the "intelligent" functions are concentrated in the processing unit 172, relayed by the chips 170.

[0161] The 112 display offers the same benefits as the 12A display. However, its serial architecture helps reduce hardware costs. However, it's important to note that this architecture involves a greater number of cables and therefore a more complex installation, which can result in higher installation costs.

Claims

1. A sales display unit (12A, 112) adapted to present one or several products (32), in particular cosmetics, and to advertise the product(s) (32) at a point of sale (18A), the display unit (12A, 112) comprising at least one module (36, 38) for presenting at least one set of products (48), the display unit (12A, 112) comprising a frame (34), at least one processing unit (72, 172) comprising a processor (88) and a memory (90), the module (36, 38) comprising: - optionally a reserve (56) containing a stock of said set of products (48), - a receptacle (50) mounted on the frame (34) and comprising a detection member (68), and - a product support (52), characterized in that the product support (52) comprises an identification member (84) representative of the product support (52), the product support (52) being movable between an uninstalled position, in which the product support is away from the receptacle (50), and an installed position, in which the product support (52) is received in the receptacle (50), the detection member 68 being adapted to cooperate with the identification member (84) when the product support (52) is in the installed position, in order to identify the product support (52), and to send to the processing unit (72, 172) information representative of the identified product support (52) being in the installed position, the memory (90) comprising information which, when executed by the processor (88), causes the processing unit (72, 172) to send information contained in the memory (90) to a server (14) via a network (16), and / or to a screen (76, 76A) of the display unit (12A, 112), the information sent relating to at least the set of products (48) associated with the identified product support (52).

2. The display unit (12A, 112) according to claim 1, wherein the product support (52) comprises at least one sample product (54) associated with the product set (48).

3. The display unit (12A, 112) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the product support (52) comprises at least one display product (55) associated with the product set (48).

4. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the identification member (84) comprises: - a radio tag, - a QR code, or - an analog electrical circuit.

5. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the memory (90) further comprises information which, when executed by the processor (88), causes the processing unit (72, 172) to: - read at least one piece of information from the memory (90), and send the read piece of information to the server (14), the read piece of information being related to the set of products (48) associated with the identified product support (52), or representative of the identified product support (52) being in the installed position, and / or - send a request to the server (14) for information about the set of products (48) associated with the identified product support (52), and / or for configuration information of the processing unit (72, 172), receive said information, and write it into the memory (90).

6. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: - at least one sensor (94) adapted to perform a facial detection of a user of the display unit (12A, 112), and / or - a sensor (65) for tracking said stock by visual recognition of the products in said stock.

7. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the receptacle (50) comprises a fixed part (58) integral with the frame (34), a drawer (60) movably mounted on the fixed part (58), and a sensor (62) adapted to detect an opening or closing of the drawer (60) and to send information representative of the opening or closing to the processing unit (72, 172).

8. The display unit (12A, 112) of claim 7, wherein the memory (90) comprises information which, when executed by the processor (88), causes the processing unit (72, 172) to: - read new information contained in the memory (90), and send the new information to the screen (76, 76A), the new information being related to the product set (48) associated with the identified product support (52), or - send the server (14) information representative of the opening or closing.

9. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: - a geolocation system (42) adapted to geolocate the display unit (12A, 112) and provide the processing unit (72, 172) with geolocation information, or - an interface (46) allowing a user of the display unit (12A, 112) to provide the processing unit (72, 172) with geolocation information.

10. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 further comprising a button (40) connected to the processing unit (72, 172), the processing unit (72, 172) being configured to display on the screen (76, 76A) information representative of the display unit (12A, 112) when the button (40) is operated by a user of the display unit (12A, 112).

11. The display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a plurality of modules (36, 38) for presenting a plurality of product sets (48), each of the modules (36, 38) comprising: - optionally a reserve (56) containing a stock of said set of products (48), - either a decentralised processing unit (72) comprising a processor (88) and a memory (90), or a video management chip (170) connected to the centralised processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112), - a screen (76, 76A) connected to the decentralised processing unit (72) or to the chip (170), - a receptacle (50) mounted on the frame (34) and comprising a detection member (68), and - a product support (52) comprising an identification member (84) representative of the product support (52), the product support (52) being movable between an uninstalled position, in which the product support is away from the display unit (12A, 112), and an installed position, in which the product support (52) is received in the receptacle (50), the detection member (68) being adapted to cooperate with the identification member (84), when the product support (52) is in the installed position, in order to identify the product support (52), and to send to the decentralised processing unit (72) or the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) information representative of the identified product support (52) being in the installed position, the memory (90) of the decentralised processing unit (72) or of the processing unit (172) of the display (12A, 112) comprising information which, when executed by the processor (88) of the decentralised processing unit (72) or of the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112), leads the decentralised processing unit (72) or the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) to send video information contained in the memory (90) to the screen (76, 76A), the video information relating to the set of products (48) associated with the identified product support (52).

12. The display unit (12A, 112) according to claim 11, further comprising an intercommunication system (44) of the modules (36, 38) adapted so that the decentralised processing units (72) or the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) receive positioning information: - representative of the relative position to each other of receptacles (50) having product supports in the installed position, and / or - for each of the receptacles (50) having product supports in the installed position, representative of the product supports that are in the installed position in those of the receptacles (50) located in a predefined vicinity of said each of the receptacles (50).

13. The display unit (12A, 112) according to claim 12, wherein the memory (90) of the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) or of at least one of the decentralised processing units (72) comprises information which, when executed by the processor (88) of the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) or of the at least one of the decentralised processing units (72), leads the processing unit (172) of the display unit (12A, 112) or the at least one of the decentralised processing units (72) to: - send the server (14) the said positioning information, and / or - send synchronised video information to some of the screens (76, 76A).

14. The display unit (12A, 112) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the memory (90) of at least one of the decentralised processing units (72) associated with one of the receptacles (50) comprises information which, when executed by the processor (88) of the at least one of the decentralised processing units (72), causes the at least one of the decentralised processing units (72) to: - send information to another of the decentralised processing units (72), or - send the screen (76, 76A) associated with it information relating to one of the product sets (48) associated with one of the product supports (52) received in another of the receptacles (50).

15. A method of displaying one or more products (32), in particular cosmetics, at a point of sale (18A) in order to advertise the product(s) (32) at the point of sale (18A), using a display unit (12A, 112) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - moving the product support (52) from the uninstalled position to the installed position, - cooperation of the detection member (68) with the identification member (84) to identify the product support (52), and to send to the processing unit (72, 172) information representative of the identified product support (52) being in the installed position, - reading, by the processor (88), of information from the memory (90), and - sending, by the processing unit (72, 172), of information from the memory (90) to the server (14) via the network (16), and / or to the screen (76, 76A), the information relating at least to the set of products (48) associated with the identified product support (52).