Door for mounting removable electronic display
The display case door design addresses the challenges of expensive and difficult maintenance in refrigerated enclosures by using a secure and maintainable electronic display system within the door, maintaining door thickness and compatibility.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024148485
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2019-03-29
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-30
- Publication Date
- 2024-12-10
- Estimated Expiration
- Not applicable · inactive patent
AI Technical Summary
Refrigerated enclosure doors with built-in display panels are expensive and difficult to maintain, necessitating improvements in displaying content effectively and efficiently.
A display case door design featuring an insulated panel assembly, a door frame, and an electronic display secured by a mounting bezel with a transparent protective panel, a circuit module, and a bezel cover that provides cooling airflow, allowing easy replacement and maintenance without altering the door's thickness.
Provides a cost-effective solution for displaying content on refrigerated enclosure doors with easy maintenance, ensuring the door's integrity and compatibility with existing door configurations.
Smart Images

Figure 2024170473000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to an insulated door for a temperature controlled enclosure. [Background technology]
[0002] Refrigeration enclosures are used in commercial, institutional, and residential applications for storing and / or displaying refrigerated or frozen objects. Refrigeration enclosures can be maintained at temperatures above freezing (e.g., refrigerators) or below freezing (e.g., freezers). Refrigeration enclosures have one or more insulated doors or windows for viewing and accessing the refrigerated or frozen objects within the temperature-controlled space. Doors for refrigeration enclosures generally include insulated glass panel assemblies.
[0003] Displaying content on a refrigerated display case door can be an effective way to advertise a product. Refrigerated display case doors with built-in display panels can be expensive and difficult to maintain. There is a continuing need for improved methods of displaying content on refrigerated display case doors. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]
[0004] In one general aspect, the subject matter described herein can be embodied in a display case door including an insulation panel assembly, a door frame, and an electronic display. The door frame extends around and is secured to a peripheral edge of the insulation panel assembly. The electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly. A mounting bezel is secured to the door frame and has a mating end, the mating end extending over an edge of the electronic display and securing the electronic display to the door frame. A transparent protective panel is positioned between a front face of the electronic display and the mating end of the mounting bezel. A first cover bezel is coupled to a front face of the door frame, the first cover bezel being sized to cover the front face of the door frame and the mating end of the mounting bezel. A circuit module is positioned within a bottom of the door frame, the circuit module covering a portion of the insulation panel assembly being removably coupled to the door frame. The circuit module includes a media player in electronic communication with the electronic display, the media player configured to control media content presented on the electronic display. A power cable is disposed within a channel defined by a portion of the door frame, the power cable being electrically connected to the electronic display and the media player. A second bezel cover is coupled to the door frame and covers the circuit module. The second bezel cover includes a plurality of louvers configured to provide cooling airflow to the media player.
[0005] This implementation and others can each optionally include one or more of the following features.
[0006] In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly includes an opaque insulation material. In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly includes a foam. In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly is a foam-filled panel.
[0007] In some implementations, the electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly and covers greater than 50% of the surface area of the insulation panel assembly.
[0008] In some implementations, the electronic display and circuit module together overlay the insulation panel assembly, covering the entire surface area of the insulation panel assembly.
[0009] In some implementations, the mounting bezel includes two parallel vertical members. In some implementations, a mating end of the mounting bezel includes a flange of each vertical member and a flange of at least one horizontal member, each respective flange extending substantially parallel to the insulating panel assembly. In some implementations, the mating end of each vertical member and the mating end of one horizontal member extend over an edge of the electronic display, covering three edges of the housing of the electronic display. In some implementations, each of the vertical members includes at least one mounting bracket configured to secure the mounting bezel to a door frame.
[0010] In another general aspect, the subject matter described herein can be embodied in a display case door including an insulation panel assembly, a door frame, and an electronic display mounted to the door. The door frame extends around a peripheral edge of the insulation panel assembly and is secured to it. The electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly. A mounting bezel is secured to the door frame and has a mating end, the mating end extending over an edge of the electronic display to secure the electronic display to the door frame. A cover bezel is coupled to a front surface of the door frame, the cover bezel being sized to cover the front surface of the door frame and the mating end of the mounting bezel.
[0011] In another general aspect, the subject matter described herein can be embodied in a display case door including an insulation panel assembly and a door frame extending around a peripheral edge of the insulation panel assembly and secured thereto. The door frame is configured to support an electronic display mounted thereto. The door frame includes a portion extending outwardly a distance beyond a front surface of the insulation panel assembly and a plurality of mounting sites disposed along the portion of the door frame. The mounting sites are configured to interface with a display mounting retainer. The electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly when mounted. The distance that the portions extend beyond the front surface of the insulation panel assembly corresponds to a thickness of the electronic display such that, when mounted, a front surface of the electronic display is substantially flush with a front surface of the door frame.
[0012] Each of these and other implementations can optionally include one or more of the following features.
[0013] In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly includes an opaque insulation material. In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly includes a foam. In some implementations, the insulation panel assembly is a foam-filled panel.
[0014] In some implementations, when mounted, the electronic display covers a majority of the insulation panel assembly.
[0015] Some implementations include a transparent protective panel positioned between the front surface of the electronic display and the mating edge of the mounting bezel.
[0016] Some implementations include a circuit module positioned within a bottom of the door frame and covering a portion of the insulation panel assembly, the circuit module being removably coupled to the door frame, the circuit module including a media player in electronic communication with the electronic display, the media player configured to control media content presented on the electronic display.
[0017] Some implementations include a second cover bezel coupled to the door frame and covering the circuit module, in some implementations, the second cover bezel includes a plurality of louvers configured to provide cooling airflow to the media player.
[0018] Particular implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented to realize one or more of the following advantages.
[0019] The implementations may provide a cheaper alternative to doors with built-in displays. The implementations may improve the maintainability of electronic displays mounted to doors. For example, the implementations of the present disclosure may provide for easy replacement or maintenance of electronic displays mounted to display case doors without having to remove the entire display case door. The implementations of the present disclosure may also allow display case doors with mounted electronic displays to remain close to their original range (e.g., doors with thin profiles) so that the doors do not interfere with the movement of other doors in a continuous row of doors. For example, the implementations may allow display case doors with electronic displays to be mounted in a continuous row of doors (e.g., in an aisle of a supermarket) without having to modify the mounting configuration or spacing between the doors to accommodate the thickness of the electronic displays.
[0020] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. For example, the present invention provides the following: (Item 1) 1. A display case door, comprising: an insulating panel assembly; a door frame extending around a peripheral edge of the insulating panel assembly and secured thereto; an electronic display mounted to the display case door and covering the insulation panel assembly; a mounting bezel secured to the door frame and having a mating edge, the mating edge extending over an edge of the electronic display to secure the electronic display to the door frame; a transparent protective panel positioned between a front surface of the electronic display and the mating edge of the mounting bezel; a first cover bezel coupled to a front surface of the door frame, the first cover bezel being sized to cover the front surface of the door frame and the coupling end of the mounting bezel; a circuit module positioned within a bottom of the door frame and covering a portion of the insulation panel assembly, the circuit module being removably coupled to the door frame, the circuit module comprising a media player in electronic communication with the electronic display, the media player configured to control media content presented on the electronic display; a power cable disposed in a channel defined by a portion of the door frame, the power cable being electrically connected to the electronic display and the media player; and a second bezel cover coupled to the door frame and covering the circuit module, the second bezel cover including a plurality of louvers configured to provide cooling airflow to the media player; Comes with a display case door. (Item 2) The display case door of the preceding item, wherein the insulation panel assembly comprises an opaque insulation material. (Item 3) Item 11. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the insulating panel assembly comprises foam. (Item 4) The display case door of any of the preceding items, wherein the electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly and covers greater than 50% of a surface area of the insulation panel assembly. (Item 5) The display case door of any of the preceding items, wherein the electronic display and the circuit module together cover the insulation panel assembly, covering an entire surface area of the insulation panel assembly. (Item 6) 2. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the mounting bezel comprises two parallel vertical members. (Item 7) The display case door of any of the preceding items, wherein the joining end of the mounting bezel includes a flange on each vertical member and a flange on at least one horizontal member, each respective flange extending substantially parallel to the insulating panel assembly. (Item 8) The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the connecting ends of each vertical member and one horizontal member extend over the edges of the electronic display and cover three edges of the electronic display housing. (Item 9) The display case door of any of the preceding items, wherein each of the vertical members includes at least one mounting bracket configured to secure the mounting bezel to the door frame. (Item 10) 1. A display case door, comprising: an insulating panel assembly; a door frame extending around a peripheral edge of the insulating panel assembly and secured thereto; an electronic display mounted to the display case door and covering the insulation panel assembly; a mounting bezel secured to the door frame and having a mating edge, the mating edge extending over an edge of the electronic display to secure the electronic display to the door frame; a cover bezel coupled to a front surface of the door frame, the cover bezel being sized to cover the front surface of the door frame and the coupled end of the mounting bezel; Comes with a display case door. (Item 11) Item 11. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the insulation panel assembly comprises an opaque insulation material. (Item 12) Item 11. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the insulation panel assembly comprises a foam panel. (Item 13) Item 11. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the electronic display covers a majority of the insulating panel assembly. (Item 14) 13. The display case door of any preceding item, further comprising a transparent protective panel positioned between a front surface of the electronic display and the mating edge of the mounting bezel. (Item 15) The display case door of any of the preceding items, further comprising a circuit module positioned within a bottom of the door frame and covering a portion of the insulated panel assembly, the circuit module being removably coupled to the door frame and comprising a media player in electronic communication with the electronic display, the media player configured to control media content presented on the electronic display. (Item 16) The display case door of any preceding item, further comprising a second cover bezel coupled to the door frame and covering the circuit module. (Item 17) 2. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the second cover bezel comprises a plurality of louvers configured to provide cooling airflow to the media player. (Item 18) 1. A display case door, comprising: an insulating panel assembly; a door frame extending around a peripheral edge of said insulating panel assembly and secured thereto; Equipped with The door frame is configured to support an electronic display mounted thereto, the door frame comprising: a portion extending outwardly a distance beyond the front surface of the insulation panel assembly; a plurality of mounting sites disposed along a portion of the door frame and configured to interface with a display mounting retainer; Equipped with When mounted, the electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly; A display case door, wherein the distance corresponds to a thickness of the electronic display such that when mounted, a front surface of the electronic display is substantially flush with a front surface of the door frame. (Item 19) Item 11. The display case door of any preceding item, wherein the insulation panel assembly comprises an opaque insulation material. (Item 20) the display mounting retainer is secured to the door frame and includes a mounting bezel having a mating end, the mating end extending over an edge of the electronic display and positioned to removably secure the electronic display to the door frame; The display case door comprises: a transparent protective panel configured to be positioned between a front surface of the electronic display and the mating edge of the mounting bezel; a cover bezel configured to be coupled to a front surface of the door frame, the cover bezel being sized to cover the front surface of the door frame and the coupling end of the mounting bezel; 2. The display case door of any preceding item, further comprising: (Summary) In one general aspect, the subject matter described herein can be embodied in a display case door including an insulation panel assembly, a door frame, and an electronic display mounted to the door. The door frame extends around a peripheral edge of the insulation panel assembly and is secured thereto. The electronic display covers the insulation panel assembly. A mounting bezel is secured to the door frame and has a mating end that extends over an edge of the electronic display and secures the electronic display to the door frame. A cover bezel is coupled to a front surface of the door frame, the cover bezel being sized to cover the front surface of the door frame and the mating end of the mounting bezel. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of an example arrangement of an electronic display within a display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0022] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of an example placement of an electronic display within a display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0023] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of an example placement of an electronic display within a display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0024] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of two exemplary display case doors mounted to a display case in a first orientation.
[0025] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a front view of two exemplary display case doors mounted to a display case in a second orientation.
[0026] [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 4 according to a first exemplary embodiment.
[0027] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 6 without the electronic display.
[0028] [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 6 according to a second exemplary embodiment.
[0029] [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A according to a third exemplary embodiment.
[0030] [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A according to a fourth exemplary embodiment.
[0031] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 6 according to a fifth exemplary embodiment.
[0032] [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 4 taken along line 10-10 of FIG.
[0033] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 10 according to the second exemplary embodiment.
[0034] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A according to a sixth exemplary embodiment.
[0035] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic top view of two adjacent doors illustrating the door motion.
[0036] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a front view of another exemplary display case door according to an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0037] [Figure 15] 15 is a front view of the display case door of FIG. 14 showing the mounting arm and media player according to the first exemplary embodiment.
[0038] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a front view of the display case door showing a media player according to the second exemplary embodiment.
[0039] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a front view of an example placement of an electronic display within a display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0040] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 14 according to the first exemplary embodiment.
[0041] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 18 according to the second exemplary embodiment.
[0042] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an electrical diagram of a display case door assembly in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0043] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an electrical diagram of a display case door assembly in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0044] [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a front view of another exemplary display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0045] [Figure 23A] FIG. 23A is a front view of an example bezel cover in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0046] [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the bezel cover shown in FIG. 23A.
[0047] [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a front view of another exemplary display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0048] [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the display case door shown in FIG.
[0049] [Figure 26A] FIG. 26A is a front view of another exemplary display case door in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0050] [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 26A taken along line 26B-26B of FIG. 26A.
[0051] [Figure 27] 27 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 24 taken along line 27-27 of FIG.
[0052] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to the second exemplary embodiment.
[0053] [Figure 29]FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to the third exemplary embodiment.
[0054] [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment.
[0055] [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to a fifth exemplary embodiment.
[0056] [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment.
[0057] [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 27 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment.
[0058] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0059] FIGURE 1 is a front view of an exemplary arrangement of an electronic display 18a within a display case door 10 in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure. FIGURE 1 illustrates an exemplary display case door 10 configured to be installed within a refrigerated display case, such as a refrigerator, freezer, or other enclosure that defines a temperature-controlled space. The display case door 10 includes an insulated panel assembly 11 (shown in FIGURE 6), a door frame 12, a display retainer 14, and an electronic display 18a covering the panel assembly 11.
[0060] As will be discussed in further greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 24 and 25, the display case door can include an insulating panel assembly, a door frame secured to an edge of the panel assembly, and an opaque display screen (e.g., electronic display) coupled to the door frame. In some embodiments, the insulating panel assembly can be an opaque insulating material such as a foam-filled panel. In other embodiments, the insulating panel assembly can be a transparent insulating glass package. The display screen can be mounted to the door frame to cover a majority of the insulating panel assembly. The electronic display can be secured to the door frame by at least one display retainer secured to the door frame. For example, the display retainer has a mating end that mates with the electronic display and removably secures the electronic display to the door frame. In addition, as will be discussed in further greater detail below with respect to FIG. 26, the display case door can be made without including an electronic display. For example, the display case door can include an insulating panel assembly and a door frame configured to support an electronic display mounted on the door. For example, the door frame of the display case door can include a portion that extends outwardly a distance beyond the front face of the insulating panel assembly. The door frame can have a plurality of mounting sites disposed along a portion of the door frame and configured for interfacing contact with the display retainer. The door frame can be configured such that, when mounted, the electronic display covers a majority of the insulating panel assembly. The distance that the portion of the door frame extends beyond the front surface of the panel assembly can accommodate a thickness of the electronic display such that, when mounted, the front surface of the electronic display is substantially flush with the front surface of the door frame.
[0061] As discussed in more detail below, the panel assembly 11 includes one or more glass panes. In some implementations, the panel assembly 11 includes an opaque insulating panel (e.g., a foam-filled panel). In other implementations, the panel assembly 11 includes two or more layers of transparent panes that bound a sealed space therebetween to form a sealed glass unit (SGU). A door frame 12 extends around and is secured to a peripheral edge of the panel assembly 11. The frame 12 defines a channel or tunnel (not shown) configured to receive one or more power cables that provide power to an electronic display 18a (e.g., a monitor).
[0062] The display retainers 14 removably secure the electronic displays 18a to the frame 12 of the display case door 10. The display retainers 14 can be made from extruded metal or rigid plastic, such as aluminum or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The display retainers 14 can be made in different sizes and configurations to accommodate electronic displays 18a of different thicknesses. With brief reference to FIG. 6, each display retainer 14 has a first end 19 and a second end 21 (e.g., a mating end). The first end 19 is positioned to be mated or clipped to the frame 12. The second end 21 (e.g., a mating end) is configured to extend over an edge 20 of each electronic display 18 and removably secure the electronic displays 18 to the frame 12. With reference back to FIG. 1, in some implementations, the door 10 can include four display retainers 14, each having a similar length on each side of the frame 12. In some embodiments, the display holders 14 are shorter than their respective sides of the frame 12, and multiple display holders 14 along a side of the frame 12 can allow for mounting an electronic display 18a to the door 10.
[0063] The electronic display 18a includes an outer housing 37 and an electronically controllable display panel 39 (e.g., a screen) mounted to the outer housing 37. The outer housing 37 can be positioned directly against the front surface of the panel 11. In some embodiments, a protective foam or flexible tape can separate the outer housing 37 from the front surface of the panel 11. The electronic display 18a can include, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a field emission display (FED), a plasma display panel (PDP), or an electroluminescent (EL) display. For example, the electronic display 18a can be a smart TV with a broadcasting capability for receiving content via a wireless network (e.g., a Wi-Fi network).
[0064] The display retainer 14 allows the electronic displays to be quickly replaced or removed for maintenance or replacement. The retainer 14 also allows the electronic displays to be rearranged in different configurations. The retainer 14 allows the electronic displays 18a to be mounted to the door 10 without the need for special mounting equipment or reconfiguration of the electronic display housing 37. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 1, the electronic displays 18a are mounted in a 1×4 arrangement. In other words, four electronic displays 18a are mounted to the door 10 in one column by four rows of displays. As discussed further below, the electronic displays 18a can be mounted in different arrangements. For example, multiple electronic displays can be mounted over the panel assembly 11 with the electronic displays arranged in a row extending along the height of the panel assembly. In some implementations, multiple electronic displays can be mounted over the panel assembly with the electronic displays arranged in two or more rows extending along the height of the panel assembly.
[0065] The frame 12 may include four frame rails 13, each made from extruded aluminum, PVC, or similar material. Each of the frame rails 13 may have a constant cross-section along their length. One of the frame rails, also referred to herein as a hinge rail, for example, frame rail 13a, may define a channel through which a power cord extends to power the electronic display 18a. As discussed in more detail below, the frame 12 further defines openings at its top and bottom for hingedly connecting the door 10 to the display case frame. Such openings may be defined at the upper and lower ends of the frame rail channels. The hinges used to connect the door 10 may include electrical connectors through which the power cables extend.
[0066] The door frame 12 has a width and thickness that allows the display case door 10 to be installed and operated within an existing refrigerated display case without the need to modify the display case. The door 10 can be operated with or without the electronic display 18a. In some embodiments, the electronic display 18a, when installed, covers 75% or more of the surface area of the insulation panel assembly 11.
[0067] In some implementations, the panel assembly 11 is an opaque insulating panel. For example, the panel assembly 11 can include a foam-filled insulating panel.
[0068] In some implementations, the panel assembly 11 includes one or more sheets of transparent or substantially transparent glass (e.g., insulating glass, non-tempered glass, tempered glass, etc.), plastic, or other transparent or substantially transparent material (e.g., translucent material). The panel assembly can be a glass or plastic panel that is transparent to visible light. The transparent panel assembly can be a highly insulating panel, e.g., a panel having an R-value of 2 or greater and a U-value of less than 0.5. As discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 6A, the panel assembly 11 can include multiple layers of transparent sheets. For example, the panel assembly 11 can be a multi-sheet unit having a first sheet and a second sheet separated by a gap to form an SGU. The panel 11 can be a thin SGU assembly having a thickness of 1 to 3 centimeters. The panel 11 can have an insulating R-value of 2 to 30, or in some embodiments, 4 to 8. The SGU can be a highly insulating panel assembly, e.g., an assembly having an R-value of 2 or greater and a U-value of less than 0.5. It is not necessary for the panel 11 to be transparent. In some implementations, the panel 11 can be translucent or opaque.
[0069] In some implementations, the gap or sealed space between two or more panels can be filled with an insulating gas, such as a noble gas (e.g., argon, krypton, etc.), which acts as an insulator to reduce heat transfer through the panels. In some embodiments, the sealed space can be evacuated to below atmospheric pressure. For example, the panel assembly 11 can be a vacuum insulated glass (VIG) assembly. For example, a VIG assembly is an SGU in which the sealed space can be evacuated to below atmospheric pressure. As further discussed in FIG. 8A, the panel assembly 11 can be an offset glass package panel assembly. For example, the boards contained within the frame 12 can include multiple smaller boards attached to the back of a fixed board.
[0070] The display case door 10 includes a door handle 16 coupled to the frame 12. The door handle 16 can be made from an extruded aluminum tube that is cut to a defined size and coupled to the front or side of the frame 12. The door handle 16 can be a "pull handle" of different shapes. For example, the handle 16 can be a U-shaped handle, or a handle with a J-shaped cross section. The handle 16 can be attached to the frame 12 by using adhesives or mechanical fasteners.
[0071] 1-3, electronic displays 18a, 18b, and 18c can be mounted to door 10 in a variety of different arrangements. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates a display case door 10 according to a first embodiment with electronic display 18a mounted in a 1×4 configuration. FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary arrangement of electronic displays mounted on door 10. FIG. 2 illustrates a display case door 10 according to a second embodiment with electronic display 18b mounted in a 1×2 configuration. Similar to how electronic display 18a of FIG. 1 is mounted on door 10, electronic display retainer 14 also extends over edge 20b of electronic display 18b to removably secure electronic display 18b to frame 12 of door 10.
[0072] FIGURE 3 illustrates another exemplary arrangement of electronic displays mounted on the door 10. FIGURE 3 illustrates a display case door 10 according to a third embodiment having electronic displays 18c mounted in a 2x2 configuration. In other words, FIGURE 3 illustrates four electronic displays 18c mounted on the door 10 in a 2 column by 2 row display. Similarly, the display retainers 14 extend over the edges 20c of each electronic display 18c to removably secure the electronic displays 18c to the frame 12 of the door 10.
[0073] Implementations of the present disclosure provide flexibility in the placement of electronic displays on a display case door. For example, the display retainers described herein allow for various placements of electronic displays. For example, multiple electronic displays can be mounted over a panel assembly 11 where the electronic displays are arranged in one row extending along the height of the panel assembly 11. In some implementations, multiple electronic displays can be mounted over a panel assembly 11 where the electronic displays are arranged in two rows extending along the height of the panel assembly 11.
[0074] In some implementations, all portions of electronic displays 18a, 18b, and 18c can cover panel assembly 11. For example, electronic displays can be positioned to cover a majority of the surface area of panel assembly 11. In some implementations, electronic display 18a is positioned to cover the entire surface area of panel assembly 11. In some examples, electronic displays 18a can cover the front of panel assembly 11, leaving small gaps 22 between adjacent electronic displays 18a. In some examples, flexible foam or tape (not shown) can fill gaps 22 and act as a cushion between adjacent electronic displays. In some embodiments, electronic displays 18a can be positioned to expose one or more areas of the front of panel assembly 11. In some implementations, display holders can be positioned to form a ventilation gap between adjacent display holders for air to enter and ventilate the back of electronic display 18a.
[0075] FIG. 4 is a front view of two exemplary display case doors 10 mounted on a display case 100 in a first configuration. The refrigerated display case 100 can be a refrigerator, freezer, or other enclosure that defines a temperature-controlled space. For example, the refrigerated display case 100 can be a refrigerated display case or refrigerated merchandiser in a grocery store, supermarket, convenience store, florist, and / or other commercial environment for storing and displaying temperature-sensitive consumer goods (e.g., food products, etc.). The refrigerated display case 100 can be used to display products that must be stored at relatively low temperatures. In some implementations, the refrigerated display case 100 is a refrigerated display unit used, for example, in warehouses, restaurants, and lounges. For example, the refrigerated display case 100 can be a freestanding unit or a "built-in" unit that forms part of the building in which the refrigerated display case 100 is located.
[0076] As shown, the refrigerated display case 100 has a number of display case doors 10 mounted on a display case frame 17. Each door 10 is pivotally mounted on a hinge 29 that connects the door 10 to the frame 17. The hinges 29 of each door 10 reside in opposite ends of the case frame 17, allowing the door 10 to pivot about points located at the two opposite ends of the case frame 17. In such a configuration, the handles 16' are adjacent to one another. In some implementations, each handle 16' is mounted to a side of the respective door frame 12. For example, the handles 16' can have a J-shaped cross section with a flange of the handle 16' mounted to the side of the frame 12. In some examples, the handles can be U-shaped handles mounted to the front of the frame 12. In some implementations, the doors 10 can be sliding doors configured to open and close by sliding relative to the case frame 17. For example, the hinges 29 can be replaced by a pair of corresponding rails coupled to each door 10 and the case frame 17, respectively.
[0077] 5 is a front view of two exemplary display case doors 10 mounted to a display case 100 in a second arrangement. For example, the doors 10 are installed in an arrangement with the hinges 29 located on the same side of each door 10. The doors 10 open in the same direction, which may be advantageous for long rows of doors (e.g., in a supermarket aisle). For example, the arrangement shown in FIG. 5 may leave more space for a consumer to open the doors 10, as opposed to doors with adjacent handles such as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.
[0078] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of a portion of the display case door 10 shown in Figure 4. The frame 12 includes a frame rail 13a and a display retainer 14. The frame rail 13a defines a channel 33 extending along the length of the frame rail 13a. The channel 33 can have a channel opening along the length of the frame rail 13a that allows a power cable 50 to extend away from the channel 33 and to the electronic display 18.
[0079] In some implementations, the frame rail 13a can act as a hinge rail. For example, a bottom opening 35 of the frame rail 13a can be configured to receive a bottom hinge 29a (e.g., a pin hinge). The hinge 29a can be attached to the frame of the case 100 and inserted into the bottom of the opening 35. The bottom hinge 29a can be an electrical hinge from which one or more power cables 50 extend. For example, the hinge 29a can include an electrical connector 54 from which each power cable 50 extends. In some implementations, the electrical connector 54 includes a 120V electrical plug. The electrical plug 54 can include a sleeve 55 configured to extend into the channel 33, cover the power cable 50, and guide the cable 50 into the channel 33. In some implementations, the bottom hinge 29a can be a gravity hinge and the top hinge (not shown) can be an electrical hinge from which the power cables 50 extend. In some implementations, other electrical cables can also extend from hinge 29a. For example, panel assembly 11 may include a condensation prevention system that requires power to heat panel 11 (e.g., to provide power to a conductive coating), and additional electrical conductors may provide such power. In some implementations, the display case door can be mounted to case 100 using any type of suitable hinge, such as a knuckle hinge or a ball bearing hinge, in place of hinge 29.
[0080] In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 6, the display retainer 14 is an over-center clip with an S-shaped cross-section. The display retainer 14 can be, for example, a self-locking vertical clip that chucks against the edge 20 of the electronic display 18, from top to bottom or bottom to top. In some implementations, the display retainer 14 can be a hard plastic that can bend slightly to clip over the electronic display frame 20. The display retainer 14 includes a first end 19 configured to clip to an inner surface 56 of the frame rail 13a. The display retainer 14 includes a mating end 21 opposite the first end 19, the mating end 21 extending offset from the frame 12. The mating end 21 is spaced from a peripheral frame edge 58 of the door frame 12 and from a front surface 60 of the panel 11. The mating end 21 is configured to extend over the electronic display edge 20 and secure the electronic display 18 to the frame 12. In some implementations, the display retainer 14 can clamp or wrap around the electronic display edge 20 as the display retainer 14 is rotated into position. For example, as the display retainer rotates around the edge 58 from a generally oblique position (i.e., disengaged position) to a vertical position, the coupling end 21 begins to engage the electronic display edge 20. The display retainer 14 provides a clamping force between the frame rail 13a and the edge 20 of the electronic display. The display retainer can be secured to the inner surface 56 of the frame rail 13a by the clamping force. In some implementations, the first end 19 of the display retainer 14 can be attached to the inner surface 56 using an adhesive.
[0081] To remove an electronic display 18, the display retainer 14 can be rotated from the vertical position back to the angled position. A bottom display retainer 14a can secure the bottom edge of the bottom electronic display in a similar manner. Similarly, display retainers 14 along the remainder of the door frame 12 can secure each electronic display 18 in place.
[0082] The electronic display 18 can be positioned directly against the front surface 60 of the panel 11. For example, the back surface of the outer housing 37 can be sufficiently soft to prevent or reduce scratching of the panel 11 when the electronic display 18 contacts the panel 11. In some implementations, a protective foam or flexible tape 31 can separate the outer housing 37 from the front surface 60 of the panel 11.
[0083] Frame rail 13a further includes channels 52 in which panel 11 is secured to frame 12. Panel 11 can be bonded to frame 12 in channels 52 with an adhesive, such as epoxy or polyurethane. Spacers 32 or adhesives, such as acrylic, can also be used to secure panel 11 to frame 12. In some embodiments, mechanical fasteners, such as clamps, can be used to secure panel 11 to frame 12. Display case 100 includes other structures for attaching door 10 to display case 100, such as mullions, gaskets 34, and other associated hardware often included in display case doors.
[0084] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door 10 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 7 illustrates the door 10 without an electronic display mounted thereon. The electronic display can be removed from the door 10 without impairing the functionality of the door 10. The electronic display can be quickly removed by disengaging the retainer 14 from the electronic display 18. For example, the retainer 14 can be disengaged by unchucking, unclipping, or removing the over-center clip from the electronic display edge. The frame 12 can receive a frame plug 15 that covers the power cable 50 and the electrical connector 54. The frame plug 15 can be a flexible plastic piece having a constant cross-section that is configured to fit snugly into an opening formed between the frame edge 58 of the frame rail 13a and the panel receiving portion 52. The plug 15 can protect the cable 50 and the connector 54 from the outside environment and can improve the aesthetic appearance of the frame 12.
[0085] FIG. 8A depicts a detailed view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 6 according to another exemplary implementation. Similar to the frame rail of FIG. 6, the frame rail 113 is configured to receive the bottom hinge 29a and power cable 50 in the channel 133. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 8A, the display retainer 114 is a door trim made from a hard plastic (e.g., PVC) or an extruded metal such as aluminum. Similar to the display retainer 14 of FIG. 6, the retainer 114 removably secures the electronic display to the door frame 114. The display retainer 114 has a first end 119 coupled to the frame rail 113 and a coupling end 121 that extends over the electronic display bezel 20 and removably secures the electronic display 18 to the frame 112. In some embodiments, the first end 119 is a flange attached to a front surface of the frame rail 113. The flange 119 can be attached to the frame rail 113 with one or more mechanical fasteners 117 that pass through a front surface of the frame rail 113. A coupling end 121 extends away from the first end 119 and is spaced from a peripheral frame edge 158 of the door frame 112 and from a front surface 60 of the panel assembly 11. To install the electronic display, the electronic display can be placed over the panel 11 and the flange 119 can be placed over both the electronic display edge 20 and the frame rail 113 and secured (e.g., with the mechanical fasteners 117) to the frame rail 113. To remove the electronic display 18 from the door 10, the display retainer 114 securing the electronic display 18 can be quickly removed by removing the mechanical fasteners 117 from the frame rail 113.
[0086] FIG. 8B depicts a detailed view of a portion of the display case door 10 shown in FIG. 6 according to another exemplary implementation. FIG. 8B illustrates a panel assembly 11 according to a different embodiment. The panel 11 includes an offset glass package panel assembly 41. The panel assembly 11 is illustrated as an offset panel assembly. The offset panel assembly 41 can include another additional transparent panel (e.g., panels 38 and 40) that is joined to the first panel and forms an SGU (e.g., panel assembly 11). In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 8B, the panels 38 and 40 have a smaller surface area than the panel 11 and are joined to the back of the panel 11. The offset panel assembly 41 is not limited to being mounted in the implementation of the frame 12 shown in FIG. 8B. The offset panel assembly 41 can be mounted in any of the implementations of the frame 12 described herein.
[0087] FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A according to another implementation. FIG. 8C depicts a frame rail and panel similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, where the retainer 114a is configured to accommodate an electronic display 118 with a narrower thickness. For example, each electronic display 118 shown in FIG. 8C has a thickness less than the thickness of the frame 112. The front surface of the electronic display 118 is generally flush with the front surface of the frame 112. The display retainer 114a is a generally flat strip attached to the frame rail 113 with mechanical fasteners. The display retainer 114a has a mating end 121 that extends over the electronic display bezel 20 and removably secures the electronic display 118 to the frame 112. In some embodiments, the electronic display 118 may be thinner (e.g., having a front surface below the frame 112) in which the display retainer 114 may have a mating end 121 that extends offset from the frame 112 toward the glass plate 11 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12 described below).
[0088] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A without an electronic display mounted on the door. The electronic display can be quickly removed by removing the retainer 114 (shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C). The isolation trim 115 can be mounted in the same manner as the trim 114 was mounted to the door frame as shown in FIG. 8A by attaching the flange 119 to the surface of the frame 112. The flange 119 can be attached using mechanical fasteners 117. The isolation trim 115 covers the power cable 50 and the electrical connector 54. The isolation trim 115 can protect the cable 50 and the connector 54 from the outside environment and can improve the aesthetic appearance of the frame 112. In some implementations, the frame plug 15 and the isolation trim 115 shown in FIG. 7 can be used interchangeably. For example, in the arrangement shown in FIG. 9, the frame plug 15 can be used in place of the isolation trim 115.
[0089] Figures 10 and 11 depict cross-sectional views of a portion of the display case door shown in Figure 4 taken along line 10-10 of Figure 4 according to two implementations. Figure 10 illustrates a handle 16' with a J-shaped cross-section. The handles 16' are attached to adjacent doors 10. Each handle 16' is attached to a side of a respective door frame 12. A handle flange 70 is attached to the side of the frame 12. Although a display retainer 14 is shown securing the electronic display to the door 10, a door trim could also be used in place of the display retainer 14.
[0090] 11 shows a door handle 16a attached to a frame 112 through a retainer 114. The handle 16a can be attached to the door by using an adhesive or mechanical fasteners that pass through the retainer 114 to the door frame 112.
[0091] FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 8A according to another implementation. FIG. 12 depicts a frame rail and panel similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, with a retainer 214 configured to accommodate an electronic display 118 with a narrower thickness than the frame 12. The electronic display 218 can be a thin display such as an OLED display. The electronic display 218 is secured to the frame 212, leaving a gap between the display 218 and the panel assembly 11. A display retainer 214 in the form of a trim piece is attached to the frame 212 and can engage the electronic display 218 at a mating end 221 of the display retainer 214. The mating end extends offset from the frame 212 toward the panel 11. The frame 212 includes a peripheral frame edge 258 extending from a side of the frame 212, which cooperates with the mating end 221 to form a channel in which the electronic display 218 is received and secured.
[0092] FIG. 13 is a schematic top view of two adjacent doors 211 and 210, where the first door 211 is opened while the second door 210 remains closed. Doors 210 and 211 represent the doors and configurations shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. Doors 210 and 211 have a cross-sectional shape with a notch 220 that allows the doors to open without contacting the door that remains closed. The notch angle 220 represents the cross-sectional shape that is formed when the door frame is securing an electronic display using the display retainer described in this disclosure. Because the display retainer is offset from the edge of the door frame, doors 210 and 211 retain a similar thickness to existing doors around the door edge. This may allow a user to replace existing doors in a continuous row of doors (e.g., in a supermarket aisle) without having to modify the mounting configuration or spacing between the doors to accommodate the thickness of the electronic display. For example, an arrangement in which the mounted electronic display increases the thickness of the doors 210 and 211 at the edges may cause the doors to bind against each other if mounted too close together. Such an arrangement may require the refrigerated display case to be modified to increase the space between adjacent doors.
[0093] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary display case door 310 according to another embodiment. The display case door 310 includes a panel assembly 311 (shown in FIG. 18), a door frame 312, a cover 313, an electronic display 18d, a transparent cover 328, and a handle 316. Similar to the door 10 of FIG. 1, the panel assembly 311 can include a single glass panel, a VIG panel, or a glass-filled panel assembly. An electronic display 18d is mounted in a 1×2 configuration and covers a portion of the panel assembly 311. In some implementations, multiple electronic displays (e.g., three or more) can be arranged in a row extending along the height of the panel assembly 311. As discussed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 15, the electronic display 18d is mounted on the display case door 310 by a mounting arm (not shown) attached to the door frame 312. A cover 313 covers the mounting arm and the surface of the panel assembly 311 not covered by the electronic display 18d. The cover 313 is attached to the frame 312 and extends to the side edges 315 of the electronic display 18d. The cover 313 is opaque. The cover 313 can be made of plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, the cover 313 covers the wiring (e.g., power cable 325 and electronic components 326, 330). The cover 313 can be included within the door 310 and serve as protection for the consumer from the electrical cables and electronic components, as described with further reference below.
[0094] The transparent cover 328 can cover the electronic display 18d and be coupled to the door frame 312 or the electronic display 18d. The transparent cover 238 can have latches (not shown) along one or more edges and snap over an edge of the door frame 312 or electronic display 18d. In some embodiments, the transparent cover can be attached to the door frame 312 using mechanical fasteners. The transparent cover 328 can be made of hard plastic or glass. The transparent cover 328 can be a bezel cover that protects the electronic display 18d from damage. For example, the bezel cover can protect the electronic display 18d from a consumer colliding the display door 310 with a shopping cart.
[0095] FIG. 15 illustrates the door of FIG. 14 showing the components (shown in dashed lines) covered by the cover 313, electronic display 18d, and frame 312. Each mounting arm 314 has a mounting interface 323 configured to secure the respective electronic display 18d to the mounting arm. The mounting interface 323 is a pattern of fasteners or fasteners that secure the electronic display 18d to the mounting arm 314. More specifically, the mounting interface 323 includes a plurality of openings 324 through which the mechanical fasteners extend and enter corresponding holes (not shown) in the rear face of the electronic display 18d. The fastener pattern can be configured to match a corresponding pattern on the rear face of the electronic display 18d. Each mounting arm 314 has a first end 321a attached to a first inner flange (shown in FIG. 18) of the frame 312 and a second end 321b attached to a second inner flange opposite the first flange, such that the mounting arms 314 extend along the width of the panel assembly 313. Each of the first and second ends of the mounting arm 314 is secured to the frame 312 by a fastener 320. The mounting arm 314 can be made from plastic or a metal, such as aluminum.
[0096] 1, the door frame 312 can include a top opening and a bottom opening (not shown) configured to receive a hinge 29 (e.g., an electrical hinge pin) from which a power cable 325 extends. In some implementations, the bottom hinge (not shown) can be a gravity hinge and the top hinge 29 can be an electrical hinge pin from which one or more power cables 325 extend. In some implementations, other electrical cables, such as conductors for powering the condensation prevention system or data cables (e.g., USB or Ethernet cables), can also extend from the hinge 29. The electrical hinge 29 includes an electrical connector 354 (e.g., a 120V electrical plug) to which the power cable 325 connects to receive electrical power.
[0097] The power cable 325 branches into multiple cables, each connecting to a respective electronic display 18d and power converter 326. The power cable 325 provides power to the electronic display 18d and the power converter 326. The power converter 326 receives alternating current (AC) power from the power cable 325 and converts the AC power to direct current (DC) power. For example, the power converter 326 converts 110V AC power to 5V DC power. The power converter 326 is electrically connected to one or more media players 330. The power converter 326 is disposed inside the door 310. For example, the power converter 326 can be positioned between the panel assembly 311 and the cover 313. The power converter 326 can be positioned between the panel assembly 311 and the electronic display 18d. In some embodiments, the power converter 326 is coupled to the mounting arm 314.
[0098] The media player 330 can be any type of digital media player device or streaming media player device. The media player 330 is disposed inside the door 310. For example, the media player 330 can be positioned between the panel assembly 311 and the cover 313. The media player 330 can be positioned between the panel assembly 311 and the electronic display 18d. In some embodiments, the media player 330 is coupled to the mounting arm 314.
[0099] In some embodiments, each electronic display 18d is communicatively connected to a respective media player 330 that is powered by a power converter 326. A USB power hub 332 has multiple USB ports that provide power to electronic devices such as cameras and touch screen devices (shown in FIG. 20). In some embodiments, the power converter 326 is also electrically connected to a power bar or universal serial bus (USB) power hub 332.
[0100] 16 shows an implementation of the display case door 410 where the media player 330 is external to the display case door 410. The media player 330 can be secured to the frame of the refrigerated display case (shown in FIG. 4) or any surface near the display case door 410. As with the door of FIG. 15, the power converter 326 can provide power to the media player 330 and the USB power hub 332.
[0101] 17 illustrates an exemplary display case door 510 according to another embodiment. The display case door 510 includes a smaller electronic display 18e that, when mounted to the door 510, does not cover areas of the panel assembly 311 above and below the electronic display 18e. To cover the exposed areas of the panel assembly, two covers 313a are installed adjacent the top and bottom edges of each of the electronic display 18e between the covers 313, respectively. The covers 313a can be attached to the door frame 312 in the same manner that the covers 313 are attached to the door frame 312.
[0102] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of a portion of the display case door 310 shown in FIG. 14. Similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6, the frame rail 317 is configured to receive a bottom hinge 29 and a top hinge (not shown). Either the top or bottom hinge can be an electrical hinge from which a power cable 325 extends. A portion of the power cable 325 is disposed within a channel 333 and extends from the channel 333 between the cover 313 and the panel assembly 311. The power cable 325 is electrically connected to the electronic display 18d. A power converter 326, a media player 330, and a power hub (not shown) can be attached to either the mounting arm 314, the cover 313, or the electronic display 18d.
[0103] The cover 313 includes a first end 364 spaced from the outer peripheral edge of the door frame 312 and the front surface of the panel assembly 311. The cover 313 additionally includes a second end 358 configured to clip or fit snugly against the inner surface 362 of the door frame 312. In some embodiments, the first end 364 is flush against the outer peripheral edge of the electronic display 18d. This arrangement allows the cover 313 to cover the surfaces of the panel assembly 311 that are not covered by the electronic display 18d. The cover 313 can be a bezel cover made from an opaque plastic or metal. The cover 313 protects the power cable 325 and electronic components (e.g., the power converter 326, the media player 330, and the USB hub 332). The cover 313 can also provide protection for the consumer from the power cable and electronic components contained within the door 310.
[0104] Each electronic display 18d has an outer housing 337 that is positioned directly against a surface of the mounting arm 314. One or more mounting arms 314 can support each electronic display 18d. Each mounting arm 314 has an end 321a that is secured to a respective inner flange 360 of the door frame 312. The end 321a can be secured to the inner flange 360 by using mechanical fasteners 320, such as bolts. In some implementations, a protective foam or flexible tape 331 can separate the mounting arms 314 from the panel assembly 311.
[0105] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door 310 of Figure 18 according to a second exemplary embodiment. The cover 313a has a flange 360a secured to a front surface of the frame rail 317 and an opposite end 364a extending away from the flange 360a. The opposite end 364a abuts a side edge of the electronic display 18d. The flange 360a is secured to the front surface of the frame rail 317 by one or more mechanical fasteners.
[0106] 15, the mounting arms 314 and cover 313 allow the electronic display 18d to be quickly installed and removed for maintenance or replacement. To install the electronic display, a user can attach the mounting arms 314 to the back of the electronic display 18d and position the electronic display in a desired location over the door, and then attach each end of the mounting arms 314 to the frame 312. The user can then attach the cover 313 to the door frame 312 to cover the exposed surfaces of the panel assembly 311 and the mounting arms 314.
[0107] To replace the electronic display, a user can remove cover 313 from door frame 312 and remove mounting arm 314 from door frame 312. A user can remove electronic display 18d from mounting arm 314 and mount a new electronic display to arm 314. A user installs the new electronic display by attaching each end of mounting arm 314 to frame 312 and then attaching cover 313 to door frame 312.
[0108] 20 is an electrical schematic diagram of a display case door assembly according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The electrical hinge 29 has an electrical connector 329 (e.g., an electrical plug) to which a power cable 325 is electrically connected. The power cable 32 provides AC power to the door heater 340, the first electronic display 18d, the second electronic display 18e, and the power converter 326. The door heater 340 may include a condensation prevention system having a conductive coating for heating the display case door. Two power cables 325d and 325e branch off from the power cable 325 and provide power to the respective electronic displays 18d and 18e. The power converter 326 includes a rectifier (not shown) configured to change the AC voltage to a DC voltage and a transformer (not shown) configured to reduce the voltage provided by the power cable 325.
[0109] The power converter 326 is electrically connected to a power hub 332 (e.g., a USB power hub) by a power cable 370. The power converter 326 provides DC power to the power hub 332. The power hub 332 is electrically connected to and provides power to one or more cameras 342 and one or more touch screen devices 344. A power cable 378 connecting the cameras 342 and the touch screen device 344 to the power hub 332 can be a USB power cord. The camera 342 can be mounted to the door handle or door frame 312 and detect customers in front of or near the display case door. The power hub 332 can also provide power to lights (e.g., LED lights) or other electronic devices contained within the display case door.
[0110] In addition, the power converter 326 is electrically connected to each of the media players 330d and 330e. The first media player 330d is attached to or contained within the first electronic display 18d, and the second media player 330e is also attached to or contained within the second electronic display 18e. Each media player is in data communication with its respective electronic display. The power converter 326 is connected to each media player by respective power cables 372 and 374 that provide DC power to the media players. The media players 330d and 330e can be communicatively connected by cable 376.
[0111] FIG. 21 is an electrical schematic of a display case door assembly according to a second exemplary embodiment. The electrical schematic of FIG. 21 is similar to the electrical schematic of FIG. 20, with the main exception that the media players 330d and 330e are external to the electronic displays 18d and 18e. The power converter 326 is electrically connected to the external media players 330d and 330e by power cables 372 and 374. The media players can be located inside the display case door (e.g., between the panel assembly 311 and the cover 313), or they can be located outside the display case door. Each media player 330d and 330e is communicatively connected to a respective electronic display 18d and 18e by cables 380 and 382. The media players are communicatively connected to each other by cable 376. The power converter 326 is electrically connected to the power hub 332 by power cable 370. The power hub 332 provides DC power to electronic devices such as a camera 342 and a touch screen device 344 .
[0112] 22 shows a front view of a display case door 610 with a single electronic display 18f. The display 18f has a width that covers substantially all of the panel assembly 311. In other words, the electronic display 18f is as wide as the interior width of the frame 312. The electronic display 18f has a height that is less than the interior height of the frame 312, leaving a space 612 for installing electrical components within the door 610 between the bottom frame member and the bottom edge of the electronic display 18f. For example, a media player 330, a power hub 332, and a power converter 326 can be positioned below the electronic display 18f in the space between the display 18f and the lower frame member.
[0113] The display case door 610 includes a bezel cover 628. With reference to FIGS. 22, 23A, and 23B, the bezel cover 628 includes a metal or hard plastic frame 650, a transparent cover 652, and an opaque cover 654. The transparent cover 652 is mounted to the frame 650. The transparent cover 652 is positioned over the electronic display 18f. For example, the transparent cover 652 can protect the display from damage. The transparent cover 652 can be made of plastic or glass. The opaque cover 654 is mounted to the frame 650. The opaque cover 654 is positioned over the space 612 between the electronic display 18f and the bottom frame member of the door 610. In some embodiments, the bezel cover 628 includes a cross bar 656 mounted across the width of the frame 650. The cross bar 656 can be positioned along the bezel cover frame 650 such that it is positioned at or near the bottom edge of the electronic display 18f when the bezel cover 628 is mounted to the door 610. The cross bar 656 can serve as a mounting structure for an edge (e.g., a lower edge) of the transparent cover 652, an edge (e.g., an upper edge) of the opaque cover 654, or both.
[0114] FIG. 24 illustrates an exemplary display case door 710 according to another embodiment. The display case door 710 includes an insulating panel assembly 711 (e.g., a transparent panel assembly) similar to the transparent panel assemblies of FIGS. 1, 14, and 22. The display case door 710 also includes a door frame 712 configured to receive an electronic display and secure it to the door. Similar to the display case door of FIG. 22, the display case door 710 has a single electronic display 18g that covers the panel assembly 711. For example, the electronic display 18g can be sized to fit the interior width of the frame 712 and cover substantially the entirety of the panel assembly 711 along that width. In some implementations, the electronic display 18g substantially covers the panel assembly 711 such that it covers a majority of the panel assembly. For example, the electronic display 18g can cover more than 50% of the front area of the panel assembly 711, such as 80% or more. For example, the electronic display 18g has a height that is less than the interior height of the frame 712, leaving space 709 for installing electrical components within the door 710 between the bottom of the door 710 and the bottom edge of the electronic display 18g. For example, the media player 330, power hub 332, and power converter 326 can be positioned below the electronic display 18g in the space between the display 18g and the lower frame member (shown in FIG. 25).
[0115] The door frame 712, electronic display 18g, and electrical components are covered by respective covers 702 and 704, such as opaque bezel covers. For example, a first bezel cover 702 sized for the door is attached to the door frame 712 and extends from the outer edge of the frame to the inner edge of the housing of the electronic display 18g, exposing only the display screen 39 of the electronic display. A second bezel cover 704 is attached to the door frame 712 or a bottom surface of the first bezel cover 702 and covers the electrical components.
[0116] The electronic display 18g is removably secured or coupled to the door frame 712. Figures 27-33 (discussed in detail below) illustrate several example implementations of removable electronic display mounting including, but not limited to, mechanical fasteners (Figure 32) extending from the door frame 712 into the electronic display housing, a mounting bracket (Figure 33) attached to the electronic display housing, and a display retainer 714 (e.g., a mounting bezel) (Figures 27-31) secured to the door frame 712 and having coupling ends that extend over an edge of the electronic display 18g to removably secure the electronic display to the door frame.
[0117] The display case door 710 includes a power cable 325 that extends from an electrical connector 354 (e.g., a 120V electrical plug) that is part of the electrical hinge 29. The power cable 29 is disposed within a channel in a portion of the door frame 712. The power cable 325 connects to and provides electrical current to a power converter 326 and the electronic display 18g.
[0118] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of an example implementation of a display case door 710. The electronic display 18g has an outer housing 37g and a display panel 39g (e.g., a screen) mounted to the outer housing 37g. The electronic display 18g can be positioned directly against the front of the insulating panel assembly 711, or a protective foam or flexible tape can be positioned between the back of the electronic display 18g and the front of the panel assembly 711. The electronic display 18g can include, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a field emission display (FED), a plasma display panel (PDP), or an electroluminescent (EL) display. For example, the electronic display 18g can be a smart TV with distribution capabilities for receiving content via a wireless network (e.g., a Wi-Fi network). The electronic display 18g substantially covers the panel assembly 711. For example, the display covers more than 50% of the panel assembly. The electronic display 18g, together with the circuit module 737, covers the panel assembly 711 and covers substantially the entire surface area of the panel assembly 711. The surface area of the panel assembly 711 is the front area of the panel assembly that is not covered by the door frame 712.
[0119] The display case door 710 includes a transparent protective panel 728 positioned between a front surface 732 of the electronic display 18g and a mating edge 715 of a mounting bezel 714 type display mounting portion. The protective panel 728 is similar to the transparent cover of FIG. 14 in that it is a protective cover that covers the front surface 732 of the electronic display 18g, protecting the electronic display 18g from a consumer crashing the display door 710 into a shopping cart, for example. In some embodiments, the transparent cover 728 can be attached to an inner surface of the housing 37g or the mating edge 715 using an adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The transparent cover 728 can be made of a hard plastic or glass.
[0120] The mounting bezel 714 of the display case door 710 has a generally L-shaped cross-section (as shown in FIG. 27 ) and features two parallel vertical members 740 separated by two horizontal members 742 extending from either end of the vertical members 740. The horizontal members 742 also have a generally L-shaped cross-section. The mating end 715 of the mounting bezel 714 can be a flange extending substantially parallel to the panel assembly 711. The mounting bezel 714 has mounting brackets 708 attached to a side of the mounting bezel. The brackets 708 are configured to secure the mounting bezel 714 to the door frame 712. For example, each mounting bracket 708 has a first end attached to the mounting bezel 714 and a second end extending away from the first end and configured to interface with the door frame 712 at a respective mounting site 706 of the door frame 712 to secure the mounting bezel 714 to the door frame 712. When the mounting bezel 714 is secured to the door frame 712, the mating edge 715 holds the electronic display 18g through the protective panel 728, which is secured in place by holding the display against the panel assembly 711. Thus, the mating edge 715 of each vertical member 740 and the mating edge 715 of the upper horizontal member 742 extend over the edges of the electronic display 18g and cover three edges (e.g., the side edges and the top edge) of the electronic display housing 37g. The mounting bezel 714 can optionally include a number of louvers 748 configured to provide cooling airflow to the display 18g and the electronics.
[0121] The display case door 710 includes two covers 702 and 704 that cover the door frame and the mounting bezel 714 when secured to the door frame 712. As discussed in detail above with respect to FIG. 24, the covers 702 and 704 can be bezel covers made of an opaque material. The first bezel cover 702 is sized to cover the front of the door frame 712 and the mating edge 715 (e.g., a mating flange) of the mounting bezel 714. The second bezel cover 704 is a rectangular cover that can be attached to the door frame or the first bezel cover 702 and cover a circuit module 737 located under the electronic display 18g. The cover bezel can be attached to the door frame using mechanical fasteners, adhesives, or similar methods. The circuit module 737 includes a media player, a power hub, and a power converter, as referenced in FIG. 24. The circuit module 737 covers a portion of the panel assembly 711. The circuit module 737 is removably coupled to the door frame 712. For example, once installed, the module 737 can be removed through the opening 703 in the first cover bezel 702. The circuit module 737 includes at least a media player (see FIG. 24) in electronic communication with an electronic display 18g. The media player is configured to control media content presented on the display. The second bezel cover 704 can include a plurality of louvers 746 configured to cover the circuit module 737 and provide cooling airflow to the media player.
[0122] FIG. 26A is a front view of an exemplary display case door 710a without an electronic display mounted thereto. The display case door 710a has a panel assembly 711 and a door frame 712 secured to and extending around the periphery of the panel 711. The door frame 712 is configured to support an electronic display mounted thereto. For example, and also referring to FIG. 26B, the door frame 712 includes a portion 780 that extends outwardly a distance beyond the front face of the panel assembly 711 and a number of mounting sites 706 disposed along the frame 712. The mounting sites 706 are configured to interface with a display mounting retainer (e.g., a bracket of a mounting bezel 714) such that, when mounted, the display (shown in FIG. 24) covers the panel assembly. The mounting sites 706 can include open slot cuts in the front face of the door frame 712 that allow a user to insert tools and fasten mechanical fasteners used to attach the mounting bezel to the door frame 712.
[0123] As described in more detail below with respect to Figures 27-35, the distance that portion 780 of door frame 712 extends outwardly beyond the front face of panel assembly 711 can correspond to the thickness of the electronic display and the thickness of transparent protective panel 728, such that when installed, the front face of the protective panel is substantially flush with the front face of the door frame. In some implementations, the distance that portion 780 of door frame 712 extends outwardly beyond the front face of panel assembly 711 corresponds to the thickness of the electronic display, such that when installed, the front face of the electronic display is substantially flush with the front face of the door frame.
[0124] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 24 taken along line 27-27. For clarity, the power cables and the bottom of the door frame 712 are not shown. The frame 712 includes a channel 752 in which the panel 711 is secured. The panel 711 can be bonded to the frame 712 in the channel 752 using an adhesive such as epoxy or polyurethane. A mounting bracket 708 is attached to a mounting bezel 714, for example, the mounting bracket 708 can be welded to the mounting bezel 714. The interface between the mounting bracket and the mounting bezel is shown using dashed line 792. The mounting bracket 708 has a U-shaped cross-section. In some implementations, the mounting bracket 708 is made of metal or rigid plastic. In some implementations, the mounting bracket 708 and the mounting bezel 714 are a unitary piece such that the mounting bezel or display retainer 714 has a mating end 715 that mates with the electronic display (e.g., through a protective panel 728) and a second end 782 that includes a mounting interface 784 that is secured to an inner surface of the door frame 12 by a mechanical fastener 790. The mating end 715 can be a flange that extends substantially parallel (e.g., within typical engineering tolerances within the industry) to the panel assembly 711 and removably secures the protective panel 728 and electronic display 18g to the door frame 712. The bezel cover 702 is secured to the front surface of the door frame 712 by a mechanical fastener 796. The bezel cover 702 extends from an outer edge of the door frame 712 to an edge of the mating end 715 and covers the door frame 712, the mounting bracket 708, and the mounting bezel 714. Additionally, the outer housing 37g of the electronic display 18g can be covered by a mating end 715 such that only the display screen 39g is visible to a customer standing in front of the display case door. In some cases, the mounting bracket 708 can have a generally S-shaped cross-section with the second end 782 extending in the opposite direction (shown using a dashed line). A door handle (not shown) can be attached to a surface of the bezel cover 702 or to a surface of the door frame.
[0125] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 24 taken along line 27-27. FIG. 28 illustrates a second exemplary mounting bracket configuration. Although not shown in FIGS. 28-33, it should be understood that a display 18g includes a housing as shown in FIG. 27 where the edges of the housing are covered by a mating edge 715 and / or bezel cover 702, and a display screen. As illustrated in FIG. 28, the mounting bracket 708a can have a generally M-shaped cross-section with one end attached to the mounting bezel 714 and a mating interface 784a where a second end 782a is secured to the rear, inner surface of the door frame 712 by a mechanical fastener.
[0126] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in Figure 24 taken along line 27-27. Figure 29 illustrates a third example mounting bracket configuration. The mounting bracket 708b has a generally L-shaped cross-section that forms an S-shaped cross-section with a mounting bezel 714, whose mating end 715 secures the display to the door frame and whose second end 782b is secured to a block 795, such as a cast block, disposed inside a frame channel of the door frame 712.
[0127] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in Figure 24 taken along line 27-27. Figure 30 illustrates a fourth example mounting bracket configuration. Instead of using a mounting bracket, the mounting bezel 714 can be a generally flat member with a mating end 715 that secures the display 18g to the door frame 712 and a second end 782c secured to the casting block by a mechanical fastener 790.
[0128] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in Figure 24 taken along line 27-27. Figure 31 illustrates a fifth example mounting bracket configuration. The display retainer has a generally S-shaped cross-section with a first end secured to the back of the electronic display and a second end 782d coupled to the door frame 712 or a cast block 795 of the door frame 712. The display retainer can be a mounting bracket 708d, a mounting bezel, or a combination of the two.
[0129] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in Figure 24 taken along line 27-27. Figure 32 illustrates a sixth exemplary mounting bracket configuration. Instead of being mounted by a mounting bracket or mounting bezel, the electronic display 18g can be secured to the door frame 712 by fasteners 791, such as long mechanical fasteners, that extend from the sides of the door frame 712 to the side edges of the housing of the display 18g.
[0130] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the display case door shown in FIG. 24 taken along line 27-27. FIG. 33 illustrates a seventh exemplary mounting bracket configuration. The door frame 712a can have a generally L-shaped cross-section with a mounting flange 799 extending outwardly away from the panel assembly 711 a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the electronic display 18g. Such a distance can include a distance equivalent to the thickness of the display 18g plus the thickness of the transparent protective panel 728a. The protective panel 728a extends from above the flange 799 of the door frame 712a across substantially the entire width of the display case door to the opposite flange of the door frame. The display retainer can be a mounting bezel or bracket 708e having a U-shaped cross-section with a first end secured by a first mechanical fastener 790a to the side of the housing of the display 18g and a second end secured to the flange 799 of the door frame 712a. The mounting bracket 708e has a flat surface that is substantially flush with the front of the electronic display 18g. A transparent protective panel 728a can be secured (e.g., glued) to the flat surface of the mounting bracket. The protective panel 728a can have an opaque border and cover the bracket 708e. A door handle (not shown) can be glued to the opaque border of the protective panel.
[0131] To install the electronic display 18g, a user may first obtain a door having a panel assembly configured to support an electronic display mounted thereon and a door frame. The user may position the electronic display over a first portion of the panel assembly and attach at least one display retainer to the door frame. The retainer with a mating edge that mates with an edge of the electronic display removably secures the display to the door frame. A circuit module covering a second portion of the panel assembly is secured to the door frame. A media player of the circuit module is communicatively coupled to the electronic display, and the circuit module is attached to the door frame.
[0132] While several examples have been described for illustrative purposes, the foregoing description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other examples and modifications within the scope of the following claims exist and will exist in the future. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that features described with reference to a particular embodiment are not limited to that embodiment and may be substituted with features of other embodiments.
Claims
1. A display case door, comprising: a door frame having two vertical sides and two horizontal sides, the distance between the two horizontal sides defining an interior height of the door frame; an opaque insulation material within the door frame covering at least an area of the door frame corresponding to the interior height; an electronic video display coupled to the door frame and exterior to the opaque insulation; a circuit module including a media player mounted adjacent a portion of a peripheral edge of the electronic video display, the electronic video display and the circuit module being positioned together such that they cover the opaque insulation substantially along a distance corresponding to the interior height of the door frame; A display door case.
2. A display retainer coupled between said peripheral edge and one of said two vertical sides of said electronic video display; a bezel coupled to the door frame, the bezel configured to cover and encase a portion of the door frame and a portion of a front surface of the electronic video display when the bezel is attached to the display case door; The display case door of claim 1 further comprising:
3. The display case door of claim 2, wherein the display retainer comprises a mechanical fastener that is coupled to a threaded coupling portion on the peripheral edge of the electronic video display, and the opaque insulating material comprises foam.
4. A display case door as described in claim 2, wherein the display retainer is attached at one end to the peripheral edge of the electronic video display and at a second end to the door frame.
5. A plurality of cameras coupled to the display case door; a cover positioned over a front portion of the display case door, the cover comprising a plurality of louvers configured to allow cooling airflow therethrough; 3. The display case door of claim 2 further comprising:
6. A display case door, comprising: Insulation panels; a door frame supporting the insulation panel, the door frame configured to support an electronic video display mounted exteriorly of and adjacent to the insulation panel, such that when mounted, at least a portion of the electronic video display is bounded vertically and horizontally by the door frame, the door frame comprising one or more mounting sites configured for interfacing contact with a display retainer, the display retainer mounting the electronic video display to the door frame with the electronic video display covering at least a portion of the insulation panel; from a side view, the display case door comprises a cut-out portion cut inwardly from an outermost perimeter of the display case door, the cut-out portion extending outwardly in a direction along a thickness of the display case door.
7. A display case door as described in claim 6, wherein at least one vertical side of the door frame extends outwardly along a thickness of the display case door a distance beyond the front surface of the insulating panel, such that when the electronic video display is mounted, the rear surface of the electronic video display is closer to the front surface of the insulating panel than the front surface of the at least one vertical side of the door frame.
8. A display case door as described in claim 7, wherein the distance is greater than or equal to a thickness of the electronic video display such that when mounted, the front surface of the electronic video display is substantially flush with the front surface of the at least one vertical side of the door frame.
9. The display case door of claim 6, wherein the door frame has two parallel vertical sides spaced apart by two parallel horizontal sides, the two horizontal sides spaced apart from one another by a distance corresponding to an interior height of the door frame, the interior height being sized such that when mounted, the electronic video display fits into the interior height of the door frame and substantially covers a vertical portion of the insulating panel corresponding to the interior height of the door frame.
10. The insulation panel comprises foam insulation, the foam insulation has a front surface adjacent a rear surface of the electronic video display; 7. The display case door of claim 6, wherein at least some of said mounting sites are located on a portion of said door frame that extends forward of said front surface of said foam insulation.
11. A display case door as described in claim 6, wherein the display retainer is attached at one end to a peripheral edge of the electronic video display and at a second end to the door frame.
12. A display retainer coupled between a peripheral edge of said electronic video display and one of said two vertical sides; a bezel coupled to the door frame, the bezel configured to cover and encase a portion of the door frame and a front surface of the electronic video display when the bezel is attached to the display case door; a plurality of cameras coupled to the display case door and in electrical communication with the circuit module; a cover positioned over the circuit module, the cover comprising a plurality of louvers configured to allow cooling airflow therethrough; the display retainer further comprising mechanical fasteners coupled to threaded coupling sites on the peripheral edge of the electronic video display; 2. The display case door of claim 1, wherein, from a side view, the display case door comprises a cut-out portion cut inwardly from an outermost periphery of the display case door, the cut-out portion extending outwardly in a direction along the thickness of the display case door.
13. At least two vertical sides of the door frame extend outwardly along a thickness of the display case door a distance beyond a front surface of the insulating panel such that, with the electronic video display mounted, a rear surface of the electronic video display is closer to the front surface of the insulating panel than a front surface of the at least two vertical sides of the door frame; the door frame includes two parallel horizontal edges spaced apart from one another by a distance corresponding to an interior height of the door frame, the interior height being sized such that, when mounted, the electronic video display fits within the interior height of the door frame and substantially covers a vertical portion of the insulating panel corresponding to the interior height of the door frame; 7. The display case door of claim 6, wherein the display retainer comprises mechanical fasteners that couple to threaded coupling sites on a peripheral edge of the electronic video display.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
showcase
JP3199688U
Transparent display device
US20170257956A1
