Quick connect case for an electrically-powered shelf module

Abstract

A quick-connect powered case holds an electrically-powered shelf module (e.g., electronic shelf label), and has a pair of power terminal arms and a connector inside that is coupled to the power terminal arms. The case may be quickly affixed to a shelf fixture that supports a product shelf and has electrically conducting brackets. The brackets provide supplied electrical power from conducting vertical shelf rails. When the power terminal arms contact the shelf brackets and the shelf module is plugged into the connector, electrical power flows from the shelf brackets, through the power terminal arms and connector, into the shelf module. For safety, the shelf fixture has an insulating cover over the shelf brackets, with openings that permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the shelf brackets. The power terminal arms are sufficiently thin that the product shelf lies flat on the shelf fixture.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] In the consumer shopping industry, it is frequently desirable to include electrically powered peripheral devices on or near shelving. As electrically powered on-shelf devices, such as digital signage and electronic shelf labels, sensors (e.g., shelf-mounted cameras), communication devices (e.g., short range wireless transmitters or receivers), and lighting become more prevalent, store aisles and shelving increasingly require sources of power. Unfortunately, wired connections introduce their own limitations, such as the expense of time-consuming manual wiring. Also, wiring that is visible to the public (e.g., shoppers) is unsightly and creates potential safety hazards due to the potential of tampering. Further, when an employee attempts to move a shelf, if the wiring is not properly disconnected, the shelves, wiring and / or electrically powered on-shelf devices may be damaged. This can be time-consuming, inefficient, and frustrating for users.SUMMARY

[0002] The disclosed examples are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawing figures listed below. This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0003] A quick connect case for an electrically-powered shelf module comprises a powered case, which comprises an aperture configured to receive an electrically-powered shelf module, a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case opposite the aperture, and a first electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms. The powered case is configured to be removably mechanically affixed to a shelf fixture. The shelf fixture is configured to support a product shelf, and comprises a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets. The pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is electrically separated to provide opposing polarity for supplied electrical power. When the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power. The first electrical connector is configured to couple to the electrically-powered shelf module, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.

[0004] Examples of the disclosure provide for a method of providing power to an electrically-powered shelf module. The method comprises: electrically coupling a power supply to a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails; mechanically affixing a shelf fixture to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein the shelf fixture comprises a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets that are electrically separated and configured to engage the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, such that when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets engages the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets; mechanically affixing a powered case to a first side of the shelf fixture, wherein affixing the powered case to the shelf fixture causes a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case to directly electrically couple with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, wherein when the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; inserting the electrically-powered shelf module into an aperture of the powered case; and electrically coupling the electrically-powered shelf module with a first electrical connector that is electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the power supply, through the vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The disclosed examples are described with reference to the accompanying drawing figures listed below:

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates an example powered shelf arrangement that advantageously provides a quick connect powered case for an electrically-powered shelf module;

[0007] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D show further detail for the powered case of FIG. 1;

[0008] FIGS. 3A and 3B show further detail for the shelf fixture of FIG. 1;

[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates affixing the powered case of FIGS. 2A-2D to the shelf fixture of FIGS. 3A and 3B;

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates securing the electrically-powered shelf module of FIG. 1 against improper removal; and

[0011] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart of example operations associated with the arrangement of FIG. 1.

[0012] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment may not be depicted, in order to facilitate a less obstructed view.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] A more detailed understanding may be obtained from the following description, presented by way of example, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The entities, connections, arrangements, and the like that are depicted in, and in connection with the various figures, are presented by way of example and not by way of limitation. As such, any and all statements or other indications as to what a particular figure depicts, what a particular element or entity in a particular figure is or has, and any and all similar statements, that may in isolation and out of context be read as absolute and therefore limiting, may only properly be read as being constructively preceded by a clause such as “In at least some embodiments, . . . ” For brevity and clarity, this implied leading clause is not repeated ad nauseum.

[0014] It is frequently desirable to include a number of electrically-powered peripheral devices on shelves, such as lights, digital shelf labels, signs and other devices. Power can be provided from sources such as wiring, batteries, solar power, and / or wireless power. Often, the power requirements for on-shelf devices are too high to rely solely on wireless or solar power, and the cost of battery replacement and disposal may become prohibitive. As the energy requirements increase with the addition of more electrically powered on-shelf devices, a wired connection emerges as the practical solution for power delivery. Wired connections often deliver substantially more power to devices at greater efficiency than other options. However, electrical wires can cause obstructions, hinder maintenance, complicate changes shelf removal, etc.

[0015] Referring to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an example powered shelf arrangement 100 that advantageously provides a quick connect powered case 200 that supplies electrical power to an electrically-powered shelf module 102. Electrically-powered shelf module 102 may include an electronic shelf label, a sensor, a short range wireless transmitter or receiver, and / or another electronically powered device, and draws too much power to be practically served by a battery. An electronic shelf label comprises may use a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen and / or a light emitting diode (LED) screen. A sensor may be optical sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or another type.

[0016] Powered shelf arrangement 100 includes an electrically-powered shelf module 102, a powered case 200, a front cover 104, a shelf fixture 300, a product shelf 106, a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, and a power supply 110. Electrically-powered shelf module 102 fits within an aperture 202 of powered case 200, and front cover 104 snaps to powered case 200 (i.e., is removably mechanically affixed) to hold electrically-powered shelf module 102 in place, within powered case 200.

[0017] A pair of power terminal arms 206 that extend backward from powered case 200 draw electrical power from shelf fixture 300 to supply to electrically-powered shelf module 102. The supplied electrical power comes from power supply 110 which, in some examples, converts alternating current (AC) line voltage (such as 110 volts) to 12 volts direct current (VDC). That is, power supply 110 may be plugged into a standard electrical receptacle in a retail facility, and convert the voltage to a safer (lower) level. Shelf fixture 300 supports product shelf 106, to display products for consumers in a retail facility, in some usage scenarios. Powered case is shown in further detail in FIGS. 2A-2D, and shelf fixture 300 is shown in further detail in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0018] The supplied electrical power passes from power supply 110 through pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, into shelf fixture 300, and then into powered case 200 via pair of power terminal arms 206. Each of pair of power terminal arms 206 directly touches one of pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108. This direct touching is what provides the electrical coupling. Pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 has a vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and a vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b that are electrically separated to provide opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power. That is, for DC electrical power, one of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b provides the positive voltage bus and the other provides the negative voltage bus. For AC, one of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b provides the hot voltage bus and the other provides the neutral (and / or ground) voltage bus.

[0019] Each of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b has slots 112 into which shelf brackets of shelf fixture 300 are placed for support, to hold shelf fixture 300 and, in turn, also support product shelf 106 (and displayed products), powered case 200, electrically-powered shelf module 102, and front cover 104.

[0020] FIG. 2A shows a front view of powered case 200. Aperture 202 is configured to receive electrically-powered shelf module 102. An electrical connector 204a is located within aperture 202 and electrically coupled with at least one of pair of power terminal arms 206, such as power terminal arm 206a (show in FIG. 2B). In examples in which only a single electrical connector is used (e.g., a plug that provides both polarities using at least two electrically separated conductors), electrical connector 204a is electrically coupled with both of pair of power terminal arms 206, such as power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b (see FIG. 2B). In examples in which two electrical connectors are used (each providing only a single polarity), electrical connector 204a is directly electrically coupled (i.e., directly touching each other) with power terminal arm 206a, and another electrical connector 204b (located within aperture 202) is directly electrically coupled with power terminal arm 206b, with no intervening electrical conductors. Electrically-powered shelf module 102 has the proper electrical connection configuration to support the implemented version of powered case 200 (i.e., to electrically couple with power terminal arm 206a and also, if used, power terminal arm 206b).

[0021] FIG. 2B shows a rear view of powered case 200. Pair of power terminal arms 206 (see also FIG. 1), which extends backward from powered case 200 (opposite aperture 202), includes power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b. In some examples, mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a and a mechanically compliant snap coupler 208b are able to deflect in order to permit powered case 200 to be removably mechanically affixed to shelf fixture 300 by snapping into place. Each of power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b may have a u-shaped clip portion 226 configured to compliantly engage an electrically conducting shelf bracket (see FIG. 2D) and / or a downward spring bias to press the power terminal arm against an electrical conductor, when powered case 200 is in place, affixed to shelf fixture 300.

[0022] FIG. 2C shows a side view of powered case 200. Powered case 200 has a security screw channel 210 nearby mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a. When a security screw 502 is inserted into security screw channel 210, it preventing deflection of mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a, which prevents removal of powered case 200 from shelf fixture 300. Security screw channel 210 holds a security nut 212 having threads that match security screw 502. Security screw channel 210 is configured to accommodate security screw 502 being inserted and engaging (threading into) security nut 212.

[0023] Front cover 104 may also be configured such that, after it is snapped into place onto powered case 200, security screw 502 passes through a portion of front cover 104 to prevent removal of front cover 104 from powered case. This then ultimately prevents surreptitious removal of electrically-powered shelf module 102 from shelf fixture 300.

[0024] FIG. 2D shows an end-on view of a portion 220 of power terminal arm 206a, which is the furthest part of power terminal arm 206a from powered case 200. At that part, power terminal arm 206a is relatively thin and flat, so that product shelf 106 is able to lay flat atop shelf fixture 300. That is, when everything is assembled, power terminal arm 206a is on the top side of shelf fixture 300 in contact with an electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a (which is shown in more detail in FIGS. 3A and 3B), but underneath the front part of product shelf 106. So, power terminal arm 206a is sufficiently thin vertically that it does not prop up product shelf 106 at an angle on shelf fixture 300. As illustrated, portion 220 has a vertical dimension 222 that is thinner than its horizontal dimension 224. This permits product shelf 106 to lie flat atop shelf fixture 300 when portion 220 is between shelf fixture 300 and product shelf 106.

[0025] In some examples, the underside of portion 220 of power terminal arm 206a has a u-shaped clip portion 226 that clips onto (compliantly engages) the sides of electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a for improved electrical contact. Power terminal arm 206b may configured be similarly to power terminal arm 206a.

[0026] FIG. 3A shows a side view of shelf fixture 300. Shelf fixture 300 has pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 that includes electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b. Electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b may be metal, and each has grip members 316 (teeth) that go into slots 112 of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b to removably mechanically affix electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a to vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b to vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b. Vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b may also be metal.

[0027] This mechanically affixing of pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 to pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 also causes electrical coupling, since the components are all electrically conducting. Each of the combinations: electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a coupled to vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a, and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b coupled to vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108b, is electrically isolated to provide opposing polarities for the supplied electrical power. Electrical power flows from power supply 110, through pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 to pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314, then to pair of power terminal arms 206, through electrical connector 204a (and possibly also through electrical connector 204b), to electrically-powered shelf module 102.

[0028] Shelf fixture 300 has an electrically insulating cover 302 that shields pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 (i.e., mostly covers them), and completes the structure of shelf fixture 300 so that it is able to properly support product shelf 106. In some examples, electrically insulating cover 302 is plastic, or a plastic-like material, so that it is electrically non-conducting. Shelf fixture 300 has a first side 304, to which powered case is affixed, which may be the front side. A second side 306 of shelf fixture 300, which may be the back side opposite the front side, is the side from which pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 extend.

[0029] Each of electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b has grip members 316 (teeth) to engage pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, thereby enabling shelf fixture 300 to be mounted on (i.e., hang from) pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108. That is, slots 112 of each of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a and vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail 108a are sized and spaced to engage grip members 316 of electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b.

[0030] Electrically insulating cover 302 of shelf fixture 300 has a mating surface 308 and a mating surface 310 that are used for engaging and holding powered case 200 in place, as will be shown and described in relation to FIGS. 4 and 5. Electrically insulating cover 302 of shelf fixture 300 also has a vertical shelf stop 312 that prevents product shelf 106 from sliding forward.

[0031] Additionally, electrically insulating cover 302 has a pair of openings, opening 318a and opening 318b, that is configured to permit each of pair of power terminal arms 206 to electrically couple with one of pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314. Opening 318a is shown in FIG. 3A, and both opening 318a and opening 318b are shown in FIG. 3B. In some examples, vertical dimension 222 of portion 220 of power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b is no greater than the thickness of the top side of electrically insulating cover 302 above electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b, and horizontal dimension 224 of portion 220 of power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b is no greater than the width of opening 318a and opening 318b. This permits power terminal arm 206a to fit inside of opening 318a and power terminal arm 206b to fit inside of opening 318b, so that product shelf 106 is able to lay flat atop electrically insulating cover 302.

[0032] FIG. 3B shows an underside 322 of shelf fixture 300. Each of electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a is located within electrically insulating cover 302, such as within a hollow channel. Pair of openings 318 are shown in FIG. 3B, with opening 318a positioned over electrically conducting shelf bracket 314a and opening 318b positioned over electrically conducting shelf bracket 314b. A light emitter 320, which is held on underside 322 of shelf fixture 300, is powered through pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314. Light emitter 320 is used for illuminating products below shelf fixture, and may use an LED or other light bulb (incandescent, or other type).

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates affixing powered case 200 to shelf fixture 300. Powered case 200 has a rigid positioning member 402 that is configured (i.e., shaped, sized, and positioned) to engage mating surface 308 of shelf fixture 300 (i.e., of electrically insulating cover 302). When rigid positioning member 402 engages mating surface 308 and mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a (and mechanically compliant snap coupler 208b) engages mating surface 310 (as shown in FIG. 5), powered case 200 is affixed to shelf fixture 300. Portion 220 of power terminal arm 206a is shown as fitting into opening 318a.

[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates securing electrically-powered shelf module 102 against improper removal, using security screw 502, after powered case 200 is affixed to shelf fixture 300, and after front cover 104 is snapped in place over powered case 200. Mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a is shown as engaging mating surface 310, and product shelf 106 is also shown as having been set in place atop shelf fixture 300. Security screw 502 is inserted into security screw channel 210 and threaded into (screwed into) security nut 212 that is higher up within security screw channel 210. When security screw 502 is in place, mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a is unable to deflect enough for powered case 200 to be removed from shelf fixture 300.

[0035] In this way, security screw 502 prevents removal of powered case 200 from shelf fixture 300. In some examples, front cover 104 is configured such that security screw 502 also prevents removal of front cover 104 from powered case 200. In such examples, when electrically-powered shelf module 102 is within aperture 202 of powered case 200, front cover 104 is affixed to powered case 200, powered case 200 is affixed to shelf fixture 300, and security screw 502 is engaging security nut 212, security screw 502 prevents removal of electrically-powered shelf module 102 from shelf fixture 300. Other mechanisms may prevent removal of shelf fixture 300 from pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108.

[0036] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart of example operations associated with providing power to electrically-powered shelf module 102. Flowchart 600 commences with electrically coupling power supply 110 to pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 in operation 602. Shelf fixture 300 is mechanically affixed to pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 in operation 604. In some examples, shelf fixture 300 comprises pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 that are electrically separated and configured to engage pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, such that when pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 engages pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108 provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power to pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314.

[0037] Product shelf 106 is placed atop shelf fixture 300 in operation 606. Electrically insulating cover 302 of shelf fixture 300 is configured to prevent lateral movement of product shelf 106 in at least one lateral dimension, such as with vertical shelf stop 312 preventing product shelf 106 from sliding forward. Light emitter 320, which is held on underside 322 of shelf fixture 300, is powered through pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 in operation 608.

[0038] Powered case 200 is affixed to side 304 of shelf fixture 300 in operation 610. Affixing powered case 200 to shelf fixture 300 causes pair of power terminal arms 206, extending from side 306 of powered case 200, to electrically couple with pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314 (e.g., via a downward spring bias and / or u-shaped clip portion 226). When pair of power terminal arms 206 is electrically coupled with pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314, pair of power terminal arms 206 provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power.

[0039] In operation 612, electrically-powered shelf module 102 is inserted into aperture 202 of powered case 200. Operation 614 overlaps with operation 612, and includes electrically coupling electrically-powered shelf module 102 with electrical connector 204a that is electrically coupled to at least the power terminal arm 206a—and, in some examples, also electrically coupling electrically-powered shelf module 102 with electrical connector 204b that is electrically coupled to at least power terminal arm 206b. In some examples, electrical connector 204a is electrically coupled to both power terminal arm 206a and power terminal arm 206b, and electrical connector 204a is used alone without electrical connector 204b. In either scenario, this provides the supplied electrical power from power supply 110, through vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails 108, through pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets 314, through pair of power terminal arms 206, through at least electrical connector 204a, and then to electrically-powered shelf module 102.

[0040] Front cover 104 is affixed to powered case 200 in operation 616. Front cover 104 is configured to hold electrically-powered shelf module 102 within aperture 202 of powered case 200. In operation 618, security screw 502 is inserted into security screw channel 210 of powered case 200 and secured with security nut 212, to prevent removal of electrically-powered shelf module 102 from shelf fixture 300. Security screw 502 prevents removal of electrically-powered shelf module 102 from shelf fixture 300 by preventing removal of front cover 104 from powered case 200 and preventing deflection of mechanically compliant snap coupler 208a of powered case 200.

[0041] An example apparatus comprises: a shelf fixture configured to support a product shelf, the shelf fixture comprising a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, electrically separated to provide opposing polarity for supplied electrical power, and a powered case configured to be removably mechanically affixed to the shelf fixture, the powered case comprising: an aperture configured to receive an electrically-powered shelf module, a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case opposite the aperture, and a first electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms; and wherein: when the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; and the first electrical connector is configured to couple to the electrically-powered shelf module, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.

[0042] An example method of providing power to an electrically-powered shelf module comprises: electrically coupling a power supply to a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails; mechanically affixing a shelf fixture to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein the shelf fixture comprises a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets that are electrically separated and configured to engage the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, such that when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets engages the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets; mechanically affixing a powered case to a first side of the shelf fixture, wherein affixing the powered case to the shelf fixture causes a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case to directly electrically couple with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, wherein when the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; inserting the electrically-powered shelf module into an aperture of the powered case; and electrically coupling the electrically-powered shelf module with a first electrical connector that is electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the power supply, through the vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.

[0043] An example powered shelf arrangement comprises: an electrically-powered shelf module; a powered case comprising: an aperture configured to receive the electrically-powered shelf module, a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case opposite the aperture, and a first electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms; a front cover configured to be mechanically affixed to the powered case and to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case; a shelf fixture configured to support a product shelf, the shelf fixture comprising: a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, and an electrically insulating cover covering at least a portion of the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets and comprising a pair of openings configured to permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets; a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails; and a power supply electrically coupled to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of power terminal arms is electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, and the electrically-powered shelf module is electrically coupled to the powered case through at least the first electrical connector, the supplied electrical power flows from the power supply, through the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, and to the electrically-powered shelf module.

[0044] Alternatively, or in addition to the other examples described herein, examples include any combination of the following:

[0045] each electrically conducting shelf bracket extends outward from the shelf fixture and is configured to be removably mechanically affixed to a vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail of a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails;

[0046] when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets;

[0047] a power supply electrically coupled to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails;

[0048] when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of power terminal arms is electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, and the electrically-powered shelf module is electrically coupled to the powered case through at least the first electrical connector, the supplied electrical power flows from the power supply, through the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, and to the electrically-powered shelf module;

[0049] a light emitter located on the underside of the shelf fixture opposite a position where the product shelf may be supported, electrically coupled to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, such that the supplied electrical power flows through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets to the light emitter;

[0050] the first electrical connector is coupled to a first one of the pair of power terminal arms;

[0051] the powered case is configured to be removably mechanically affixed to a first side of the shelf fixture;

[0052] the powered case further comprises a second electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to a second one of the power terminal arms, such that the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector together provide opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; the first electrical connector is further coupled to the second one of the pair of power terminal arms, such that the first electrical connector provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power;

[0053] the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets extend from a second side of the shelf fixture different than the first side of the shelf fixture;

[0054] the electrically-powered shelf module comprises an electronic shelf label, a sensor, and / or a short range wireless transmitter or receiver;

[0055] the powered case further comprises a rigid positioning member, and a mechanically compliant snap coupler;

[0056] the shelf fixture further comprises a first mating surface, and a second mating surface;

[0057] the shelf fixture further comprises an electrically insulating cover covering at least a portion of the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets and comprising a pair of openings configured to permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets;

[0058] when the rigid positioning member engages the first mating surface and the mechanically compliant snap coupler engages the second mating surface, the powered case is affixed to the shelf fixture;

[0059] a front cover configured to be removably mechanically affixed to the powered case and to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case;

[0060] a security screw;

[0061] the powered case further comprises a security nut configured to engage the security screw and a security screw channel configured to accommodate the security screw engaging the security nut; the front cover is configured such that, when the electrically-powered shelf module is within the aperture of the powered case, the front cover is affixed to the powered case, the powered case is affixed to the shelf fixture, and the security screw is engaging the security nut, the security screw prevents removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture;

[0062] each power terminal arm has a portion with a thinner vertical dimension than a horizontal dimension, to permit the product shelf to lie flat atop the shelf fixture;

[0063] each power terminal arm has a u-shaped clip portion configured to compliantly engage one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets;

[0064] each power terminal arm has a downward spring bias configured to press the power terminal arm against one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets;

[0065] the powered case comprises two mechanically compliant snap couplers;

[0066] the electronic shelf label comprises an LCD screen or an LED screen;

[0067] the sensor comprises an optical sensor or an infrared sensor;

[0068] the supplied electrical power comprises 12 VDC;

[0069] the first side of the shelf fixture is the front side of the shelf fixture;

[0070] the second side of the shelf fixture is the back side of the shelf fixture opposite the front side;

[0071] the electrically insulating cover comprises plastic;

[0072] the electrically insulating cover is configured to prevent lateral movement of the product shelf in at least one lateral dimension;

[0073] the electrically insulating cover comprises a vertical shelf stop that prevents lateral movement of the product shelf in the at least one lateral dimension;

[0074] the light emitter comprises an LED or other light bulb;

[0075] each electrically conducting shelf bracket comprises metal;

[0076] each electrically conducting shelf bracket extends from the back side of the shelf fixture;

[0077] each electrically conducting shelf bracket is located within the electrically insulating cover;

[0078] each electrically conducting shelf bracket comprises grip members;

[0079] each vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail comprises slots sized and spaced to engage the grip members of an electrically conducting shelf bracket;

[0080] the security screw prevents removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture by preventing removal of the front cover from the powered case and preventing deflection of the mechanically compliant snap coupler;

[0081] powering a light emitter through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets;

[0082] the light emitter is held by the shelf fixture;

[0083] affixing a front cover to the powered case;

[0084] the front cover is configured to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case;

[0085] inserting a security screw into the powered case to prevent removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture; and

[0086] placing a product shelf atop the shelf fixture.

[0087] The order of execution or performance of the operations in examples of the disclosure illustrated and described herein may not be essential, and thus may be performed in different sequential manners in various examples. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the disclosure. When introducing elements of aspects of the disclosure or the examples thereof, the articles “a,”“an,”“the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,”“including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0088] The phrase “one or more of the following: A, B, and C” means “at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C.” Multiple elements listed with “and / o”” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements).

[0089] Having described aspects of the disclosure in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of aspects of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of aspects of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated examples thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising:a shelf fixture configured to support a product shelf, the shelf fixture comprising a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, electrically separated to provide opposing polarity for supplied electrical power, anda powered case configured to be removably mechanically affixed to the shelf fixture, the powered case comprising:an aperture configured to receive an electrically-powered shelf module,a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case opposite the aperture, anda first electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms; andwherein:when the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; andthe first electrical connector is configured to couple to the electrically-powered shelf module, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.

2. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein each electrically conducting shelf bracket extends outward from the shelf fixture and is configured to be removably mechanically affixed to a vertical electrically conducting shelf support rail of a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails; andwherein when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising:the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails;the electrically-powered shelf module; anda power supply electrically coupled to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of power terminal arms is electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, and the electrically-powered shelf module is electrically coupled to the powered case through at least the first electrical connector, the supplied electrical power flows from the power supply, through the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, and to the electrically-powered shelf module.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising:a light emitter located on an underside of the shelf fixture opposite a position where the product shelf may be supported, electrically coupled to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, such that the supplied electrical power flows through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets to the light emitter.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first electrical connector is coupled to a first one of the pair of power terminal arms, and wherein either:the powered case further comprises a second electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to a second one of the power terminal arms, such that the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector together provide opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power; orthe first electrical connector is further coupled to the second one of the pair of power terminal arms, such that the first electrical connector provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electrically-powered shelf module comprises at least one device selected from the list consisting of:an electronic shelf label, a sensor, and a short range wireless transmitter or receiver.

7. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the powered case further comprises:a rigid positioning member, anda mechanically compliant snap coupler;wherein the shelf fixture further comprises:a first mating surface, anda second mating surface; andwherein when the rigid positioning member engages the first mating surface and the mechanically compliant snap coupler engages the second mating surface, the powered case is affixed to the shelf fixture.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:the electrically-powered shelf module;a front cover configured to be removably mechanically affixed to the powered case and to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case; anda security screw;wherein the powered case further comprises:a security nut configured to engage the security screw; anda security screw channel configured to accommodate the security screw engaging the security nut; andwherein the front cover is configured such that, when the electrically-powered shelf module is within the aperture of the powered case, the front cover is affixed to the powered case, the powered case is affixed to the shelf fixture, and the security screw is engaging the security nut, the security screw prevents removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shelf fixture further comprises:an electrically insulating cover covering at least a portion of the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets and comprising a pair of openings configured to permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets;wherein each power terminal arm has a portion with a thinner vertical dimension than a horizontal dimension, to permit the product shelf to lie flat atop the shelf fixture; andwherein each power terminal arm has either:a u-shaped clip portion configured to compliantly engage one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets; ora downward spring bias configured to press the power terminal arm against one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets.

10. A method of providing power to an electrically-powered shelf module, the method comprising:electrically coupling a power supply to a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails;mechanically affixing a shelf fixture to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein the shelf fixture comprises a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets that are electrically separated and configured to engage the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, such that when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets engages the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails provides opposing polarity for supplied electrical power to the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets;mechanically affixing a powered case to a first side of the shelf fixture, wherein affixing the powered case to the shelf fixture causes a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case to directly electrically couple with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, wherein when the pair of power terminal arms is directly electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, the pair of power terminal arms provides opposing polarity for the supplied electrical power;inserting the electrically-powered shelf module into an aperture of the powered case; andelectrically coupling the electrically-powered shelf module with a first electrical connector that is electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms, thereby providing the supplied electrical power from the power supply, through the vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, to the electrically-powered shelf module.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the electrically-powered shelf module comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the supplied electrical power comprises 12 volts direct current (VDC).

13. The method of claim 10, further comprising:powering a light emitter through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, wherein the light emitter is held by the shelf fixture.

14. The method of claim 10, further comprising:affixing a front cover to the powered case, wherein the front cover is configured to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case, wherein the shelf fixture, the powered case, and the front cover are removably affixed.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:inserting a security screw into the powered case to prevent removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture, wherein the security screw prevents removal of the electrically-powered shelf module from the shelf fixture by preventing removal of the front cover from the powered case and preventing deflection of a mechanically compliant snap coupler of the powered case.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein the shelf fixture comprises:an electrically insulating cover covering at least a portion of the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets and comprising a pair of openings configured to permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:placing a product shelf atop the shelf fixture, wherein the electrically insulating cover is configured to prevent lateral movement of the product shelf in at least one lateral dimension.

18. A powered shelf arrangement comprising:an electrically-powered shelf module;a powered case comprising:an aperture configured to receive the electrically-powered shelf module,a pair of power terminal arms extending from the powered case opposite the aperture, anda first electrical connector located within the aperture and electrically coupled to at least one of the power terminal arms;a front cover configured to be removably mechanically affixed to the powered case and to hold the electrically-powered shelf module within the aperture of the powered case;a shelf fixture configured to support a product shelf, the shelf fixture comprising:a pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, andan electrically insulating cover covering at least a portion of the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets and comprising a pair of openings configured to permit each of the power terminal arms to electrically couple with one of the electrically conducting shelf brackets;a pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails; anda power supply electrically coupled to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, wherein when the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets is affixed to the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, the pair of power terminal arms is electrically coupled with the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, and the electrically-powered shelf module is electrically coupled to the powered case through at least the first electrical connector, the supplied electrical power flows from the power supply, through the pair of vertical electrically conducting shelf support rails, through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets, through the pair of power terminal arms, through at least the first electrical connector, and to the electrically-powered shelf module.

19. The powered shelf arrangement of claim 18, wherein the electrically-powered shelf module comprises at least one device selected from the list consisting of:an electronic shelf label, a sensor, and a short range wireless transmitter or receiver.

20. The powered shelf arrangement of claim 18, further comprising:a product shelf located atop the shelf fixture; anda light emitter located on an underside of shelf fixture, opposite the product shelf, wherein the light emitter is powered through the pair of electrically conducting shelf brackets.

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