Product-display system

Abstract

A product-display system may include a retainer bracket for retaining an electronic device and a stem configured to receive the retainer bracket and releasably couple with the retainer bracket. The retainer bracket may include a groove formed in a distal end of the retainer bracket. The stem may include a chassis and a pawl movably coupled to the chassis. The pawl may be movable between a locked position that prevents separation of the retainer bracket from the stem and an unlocked position that allows the retainer bracket to separate from the stem. In the locked position the pawl may be received in the groove.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 778,308, titled “PRODUCT-DISPLAY SYSTEM,” and filed March 26, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The described embodiments relate generally to product-display systems. More particularly, the embodiments relate to product-display systems for displaying and securing retail products.BACKGROUND

[0003] A retailer or other person may desire to display a product to a potential purchaser and make the product available for use (e.g., for testing) by the potential purchaser or another person. In some cases, the retailer may further desire to limit the potential purchaser’s ability to remove the product from a display area or provide security measures to prevent the product from being stolen.SUMMARY

[0004] In some embodiments, a product-display system includes a retainer and a stem. The retainer bracket can retain an electronic device. The retainer bracket includes a groove formed in a distal end of the retainer bracket. The stem is configured to receive the retainer bracket and releasably couple with the retainer bracket. The stem includes a chassis and a pawl movably coupled to the chassis. The pawl is movable between a locked position that prevents separation of the retainer bracket from the stem and an unlocked position that allows the retainer bracket to separate from the stem. In the locked position the pawl is received in the groove.

[0005] In some embodiments, the pawl is rotatably coupled to the chassis.

[0006] In some embodiments, the pawl is biased into the unlocked position by a spring.

[0007] In some embodiments, the stem includes a cam movably coupled to the chassis. The cam is configured to move the pawl into the locked position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cam is a cam ring rotatably coupled to the chassis.

[0009] In some embodiments, the cam includes a plurality of teeth and the plurality of teeth are driven by a geared motor to move the cam relative to the chassis.

[0010] In some embodiments, the pawl includes a body, a locking arm disposed at a distal end of the body, and a rocker disposed at a proximal end of the body.

[0011] In some embodiments, the locking arm is received in the groove of the retainer bracket when the pawl is in the locked position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the retainer bracket includes a clocking surface and the stem includes a recess surface. Interaction between the clocking surface and the recessed surface causes rotation of the retainer bracket to the at least one predefined orientation.

[0013] In some embodiments, the clocking surface includes a rounded peak. The recessed surface includes a rounded valley configured to receive the rounded peak of the clocking surface in the at least one predefined orientation.

[0014] In some embodiments, a product-display system includes a retainer bracket and a retaining arm. The retaining arm is movably coupled to the retainer bracket and configured to secure a device to the retainer bracket. The retaining arm includes a circuit configured to supply power to the device. The retaining arm moves relative to the retainer bracket to accommodate a second device having a length or width different to the device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the retaining arm includes a device plug coupled to the circuit and disposed at a distal end of the retaining arm. The device plug is configured to be inserted into the device to supply power to the device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the circuit is integrated within and extends from a proximal end of the retaining arm to a distal end of the retaining arm.

[0017] In some embodiments, the circuit includes at least one elongated electrical contact disposed and the proximal end of the retaining arm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the retainer bracket includes at least one pin configured to engage the at least one elongated electrical contact of the circuit to transfer power from the retainer bracket to the retaining arm.

[0019] In some embodiments, the circuit includes a main body extending along a first side of the retaining arm. The elongated electrical connector is disposed on a second side of the retaining arm opposite the first side.

[0020] In some embodiments, the product-display system includes a second retaining arm moveably coupled to the retainer bracket. The retaining arm extends in a first direction away from the retainer bracket and the second retaining arm extends in a second direction away from the retainer bracket opposite the first direction. The second retaining arm is laterally offset from the retaining arm.

[0021] In some embodiments, the product-display system includes a third retaining arm and a fourth retaining arm moveably coupled to the retainer bracket. The third retaining arm extends in a third direction away from the retainer bracket and the fourth retaining arm extends in a fourth direction away from the retainer bracket opposite the third direction. The third direction is approximately perpendicular to the second direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the product-display system includes a retaining pin configured to extend into a tapered groove formed in the retaining arm and couple the retaining arm to the retainer bracket.

[0023] In some embodiments, the tapered groove extends along a length direction of the retaining arm. A width and a depth of the tapered groove decreases as the tapered groove extends toward a proximal end of the retaining arm.

[0024] In some embodiments, the retaining pin is configured to prevent the retaining arm from translating relative to the retainer bracket in a direction extending away from the retainer bracket.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a product-display system mounted on a retail fixture and adapted to accommodate different sized products.

[0027] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a product-display system.

[0028] FIG. 2B shows an exploded perspective view of the product-display system of FIG. 2A.

[0029] FIG. 3 shows a cutaway perspective view of a portion of the product-display system shown in FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 4 shows an interior perspective view of a stem of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0031] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the stem of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 6 shows a section perspective view of the stem shown in FIG. 5.

[0033] FIG. 7 shows a section perspective view of the stem shown in FIG. 5.

[0034] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a retainer bracket of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0035] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a retainer bracket and a stem of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0036] FIG. 10 shows example profile shapes of the contacting surfaces of the retainer bracket and stem of FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0037] FIG. 11 shows perspective view of a retaining arm of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0038] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a retainer bracket of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 13 shows a bottom view of an electrical contact disposed on the retaining arm shown in FIG. 11.

[0040] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0041] FIG. 15A shows a partial exploded view of the retaining arms and retainer bracket of the product-display system of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 15B shows a detailed perspective view of the retaining arm of FIG. 15A showing a tapered groove disposed on the retaining arm.

[0043] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate cross-sectional and plan views of the engagement between the retainer bracket and the tapered grooves on the retaining arms shown in FIG. 15A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0045] Some retailers may wish to display products to potential customers in order to entice customers to purchase products, or to allow customers to interact with and experience the displayed products before making a purchase. For example, some retailers may have a display model product that is representative of products that are available for purchase by a customer, and may make the displayed product accessible to a user, for example, by displaying the product on a retail fixture in a display area. However, some retailers may wish to optionally secure the product to a retail fixture to avoid removal of the product from the retail fixture and / or prevent theft of the product from the retail area.

[0046] The present disclosure relates to product-display systems that may be used, for example, to display products to customers and optionally provide a securing mechanism that can quickly lock the product to the product-display system to prevent removal of the displayed product from a display area. The product-display systems may present the displayed products in a consistent, visually-appealing manner. Embodiments described herein may also allow customers to use and manipulate the displayed products without being encumbered by the security features of the product-display system. For example, the product-display system may allow a customer to easily lift, rotate, and manipulate a displayed product in a smooth, fluid, and user-friendly manner, such that the security features do not detract from a customer’s experience when viewing, handling, and testing the displayed product.

[0047] In some embodiments, the product-display system includes a product retainer and a display stem that, together, may present a displayed product to a customer. The retainer may, for example, include a retainer bracket and retaining arms to secure the product to the display stem. The retainer bracket may be received by the display stem such that the retainer with product may be placed on and supported by the display stem. The retainer bracket may be configured to be locked to the display stem when the securing mechanism in the display stem is moved to a locked configuration.

[0048] In some embodiments, the retaining arms may movably couple with the retainer bracket and wrap around opposing sides of a displayed product in order to secure the displayed product to the retainer bracket. The retaining arms may translate relative to the retainer bracket to accommodate products with different dimensions (e.g., small and large sized mobile telephones or tablet devices). The retaining arms may further include an integrated circuit that transfers power and data between the retainer bracket and the displayed product without such connections being visibly or physically obtrusive to the customer. The retainer may have a smooth, clean appearance without any fasteners of the retainer being visibly or physically obtrusive to the customer.

[0049] In some embodiments, the product retainer may be removable from the display stem so that a user can interact and experience the product. For example, the product retainer may connect to a retaining cable that is secured to the display stem or the retail fixture. The length of the retaining cable provides a perimeter around the display stem where the user is free to interact with the product. There may be situations where a retailer desires to limit movement of the product such that the product remains fixed on the display stem. A securing mechanism housed within the stem includes a mechanism, hidden from view from the user, that may selectively anchor the retainer bracket in place on the end of the display stem. For example, the mechanism may include moveable pawls that selectively engage or disengage with a groove formed in the retainer bracket.

[0050] Further, in some embodiments, the retainer bracket and the display stem may include a clocking feature that may be used to automatically return the product retainer to a default position and into one or more predefined orientations relative to the display stem. For example, the retainer bracket may include an undulating clocking surface that contacts an undulating recessed surface in the display stem. Neighboring peaks and valleys of each undulating surface may interact with one another to urge the retainer into an angular position relative to the display stem. In some embodiments, the product retainer and display stem may include magnets that urge the relative rotation of the retainer and display stem into the predefined orientations. The predefined orientations may, for example, correspond to portrait and landscape orientations for a display screen of the displayed product.

[0051] These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1–16B. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, a product-display system 100 may be used to display and secure a product 10. Product 10 may be a retail product such as, for example, a consumer electronic device. Product 10 may be, for example, a cell phone, smartphone, media player, tablet computer, laptop computer, watch, smartwatch, or other similar products.

[0053] In some embodiments, product-display system 100 is coupled to a retail fixture 20. In some embodiments, product-display system 100 is integrated with retail fixture 20. Retail fixture 20 may be, for example, a table, counter, desk, bar, cabinet, display unit, or similar. In some embodiments, multiple product-display systems 100 may be coupled to retail fixture 20, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1. For example, the multiple product-display systems 100 may all display the same type of product 10 (e.g., all smartphones, all tablet computers, all watches), or may display different types of products 10 (e.g., a smartphone and at least one of a tablet computer or a watch, a tablet computer and at least one of a smartphone and a watch, or a watch and at least one of a smartphone and a tablet computer). In the case of different types of products 10, each product-display system 100 may have similar characteristics, such as described in various embodiments herein.

[0054] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1, product-display systems 100 are shown displaying a smartphone (which in some embodiments may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem 300, shown currently in a portrait orientation), a second smaller smartphone (which in some embodiments also may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem 300, shown currently in a landscape orientation), and a tablet computer (which in some embodiments also may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem 300, shown currently in a landscape orientation). In some embodiments, the displayed product 10 may not be rotatable or removable from its display stem 300. In some embodiments, the displayed product 10 may be a smart watch.

[0055] Product-display system 100 may include a retainer 200, a display stem 300, and a retaining cable 400 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, retainer 200 can include a retainer bracket 210 configured to retain and hold product 10 and to mount to and optionally secure with display stem 300. In some embodiments, retainer 200 includes a plurality of retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 that movably couple with retainer bracket 210. In some embodiments, retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 are configured to extend around sides 12 of product 10 to secure and hold product 10 to the retainer bracket 210.

[0056] In some embodiments, retainer bracket can include an upper body 212 and a lower body 214, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, upper body and lower body can be rotatably coupled. Upper body 212 may be configured to couple with the retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226. Retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 may slide or translate relative to upper body 212 such that a product with different dimensions (e.g., length and width of product 10) can be accommodated by retainer bracket 210 and retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226.

[0057] In some embodiments, retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 can be adjusted by up to + / -10 mm relative to retainer bracket 210 to accommodate products 10 with different dimensions. In some embodiments, retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 can be adjusted by up to + / -7 mm relative to retainer bracket 210 to accommodate products 10 with different dimensions. In some embodiments, retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 can be adjusted by up to + / -4 mm relative to retainer bracket 210 to accommodate products 10 with different dimensions.

[0058] Lower body 214 may be configured to be received in a recess 330 of display stem 300 and to be optionally coupled thereto. In some embodiments, a groove 216 can be formed in lower body 214 and configured to receive an anchor (e.g., a plurality of pawls 322) of a securement mechanism 320 housed within display stem 300 to secure the retainer 200 to display stem 300. Retaining cable 400 may extend through display stem 300 and couple to retainer bracket 210 to secure retainer 200 and product 10 to display stem 300.

[0059] Display stem 300 can include a securement mechanism 320 configured to secure and lock retainer 200 to display stem 300 such that a user cannot remove product 10 from the display stem 300 and retail fixture 20. Securement mechanism 320 can include a plurality of pawls 322 that move between a locked position and an unlocked position as shown, for example, in FIGS. 3 and 5. In the locked position, pawls 322 extend into groove 216 of retainer bracket 210 such that retainer 200 is secured to (i.e., cannot be removed from) display stem 300. In the unlocked position, pawls 322 are positioned away from groove 216 of retainer bracket 210 such that retainer 200 can be moved away from display stem 300.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 2A–7, product-display system 100 includes a securement mechanism 320 configured to secure and lock retainer 200 and product 10 to display stem 300. A retailer may activate securement mechanism 320 to limit movement of product 10 relative to display stem 300 and retail fixture 20. In some embodiments, a retailer may activate the securement mechanism 320 to prevent theft of product 10 from a retail area.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the lower body 214 of retainer bracket 210 includes a protrusion 218 that extends into a recess 330 of display stem 300. Groove 216 may be formed in protrusion 218 and be configured to receive pawls 322 of securement mechanism 320 to secure and lock retainer 200 with display stem 300. In some embodiments, lower body 214 and protrusion 218 can have a circular cross-sectional shape, and groove 216 extends around a perimeter of protrusion 218.

[0062] As shown, for example, in FIGS. 2A and 2B, display stem 300 may include a first end 302, a second end 304, and a stem body 306 extending from the first end 302 to the second end 304. Second end 304 may be coupled to retail fixture 20 and first end 302 may extend at an angle relative to retail fixture 20 such that product 10 is partially orientated towards a user when product 10 is held on display stem 300. Display stem 300 further includes a chassis 310, securement mechanism 320 coupled to chassis 310, and recess 330 formed in first end 302 of display stem 300. Chassis 310 may be disposed on an interior of stem body 306 such that chassis 310 is hidden from a user’s view, which may facilitate a clean, visual appearance of display stem 300. In some embodiments, chassis 310 couples to retail fixture 20 and stem body 306 couples to an exterior of chassis 310.

[0063] As shown in the illustrative embodiment in FIG. 2B, recess 330 is formed in first end 302 of display stem 300. Recess 330 is configured to receive protrusion 218 of retainer 200. A plurality of apertures 332 may be formed in a sidewall of recess 330. In some embodiments, apertures 332 are equally spaced around a perimeter of recess 330. In some embodiments, recess 330 includes two or more apertures 332. As shown, for example, in FIG. 2B, recess 330 includes four apertures 332 that are configured to receive pawls 322 of securement mechanism 320 when pawls 322 are in a locked position 30.

[0064] As shown, for example in FIGS. 3–7, securement mechanism 320 couples to chassis 310 and is configured to move pawls 322 into engagement with groove 216 of retainer 200 to secure and lock retainer 200 with display stem 300. Securement mechanism 320 includes a plurality of pawls 322, a plurality of springs 324, a cam 326, and a geared motor 328. Pawls 322 are movably coupled to chassis 310 and configured to move between a locked position 30 and an unlocked position 40.

[0065] In some embodiments, cam 326 moves pawls 322 from the unlocked position 40 and into the locked position 30. In some embodiments, cam 326 holds pawls in locked position 30 when securement mechanism 320 is active.

[0066] In some embodiments, springs 324 bias pawls 322 from the locked position 30 into the unlocked position 40, when cam 326 is not holding pawls 322 in locked position 30.

[0067] In some embodiments, there are equal numbers of springs 324 as pawls 322 such that one spring 324 biases one pawl 322. In some embodiments, there are a different number of springs 324 to pawls 322. In some embodiments, spring 324 can be a torsional spring.

[0068] As shown in illustrative embodiment in FIGS. 3–5, pawls 322 are rotatably coupled to chassis 310 and move between locked position 30 and unlocked position 40. In some embodiments, securement mechanism 320 includes at least one pawl 322. In the illustrative embodiment shown FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, securement mechanism 320 includes four pawls 322 equally spaced around a perimeter of chassis 310.

[0069] In some embodiments, each pawl 322 may include a body 340, a locking arm 342, and a rocker 344, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 3–5. Body 340 may extend along a portion of the length of display stem 300 and be disposed between stem body 306 and chassis 310. Locking arm 342 may be disposed at a distal end 346 of body 340. Locking arm 342 may extend approximately perpendicular to body 340 and inward towards a center of display stem 300. In some embodiments, locking arm 342 is configured to extend through aperture 332 in recess 330.

[0070] As shown, for example, in FIGS. 3 and 5, locking arm 342 extends into groove 216 of retainer 200 when pawl 322 is moved into locked position 30, and locking arm 342 is positioned away from groove 216 of retainer 200 when pawl 322 is in unlocked position 40. Rocker 344 may be disposed at a proximal end 348 of body 340 opposite distal end 346. In some embodiments, rocker 344 can rotatable couple to chassis 310 such that pawl 322 rotates about an axis extending through rocker 344. In some embodiments, rocker 344 is configured to at least partially balance the mass of body 340 and locking arm 342 to facilitate smooth and easy rotation of pawl 322 relative to chassis 310.

[0071] Pawls 322 are moved into and held in locked position 30 by cam 326, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5–7. In some embodiments, cam 326 is a cam ring that rotates around a central axis of chassis 310. In some embodiments, cam 326 can include a plurality of cams that individually exert a force on each pawl 322.

[0072] In some embodiments, cam 326 can move linearly to move pawls 322. In some embodiments, cam 326 can rotate around a parallel axis to pawls 322 to move pawls 322. Cam 326 can be disposed between stem body 306 and chassis 310.

[0073] In some embodiments, a length of body 340 of pawls 322 can be increased such that cam 326 to be positioned lower within display stem 300. This can be advantageous to the securement mechanism 320 assembly because it provides more axial space along the length of display stem 300 to accommodate protrusion 218 of retainer bracket 210, the corresponding recess 330 in display stem 300, and clocking features 360 at first end 302 of display stem 300.

[0074] In some embodiments, cam 326 can include protruding portions 350, recessed portions 352, and a plurality of teeth 354 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5–7. Protruding portions 350 can be configured to move pawls 322 into the locked position 30 and recessed portions 352 can be configured to allow pawls 322 to be biased into the unlocked position 40 by springs 324.

[0075] In some embodiments, the protruding portions 350 and recessed portions 352 are disposed above plurality of teeth 354 and closer to first end 302 of display stem 300. Protruding portions 350 can extend inward toward a center of display stem 300 such that an innermost diameter of protruding portions 350 is less than a diameter of recessed portions 352. In some embodiments, cam 326 includes an equal number of protruding portions 350 and recessed portions 352 to the number of pawls 322 in securement mechanism 320. In some embodiments, protruding portions 350 and recessed portions 352 can include a profile with varying diameter around the circumference of cam 326. In some embodiments, the profile of protruding portions 350 and recessed portion 352 can control movement of pawls 322 into the locked and unlocked positions 30, 40.

[0076] In some embodiments, teeth 354 of cam 326 engage with and are driven by geared motor 328 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 6 and 7. In some embodiments, teeth 354 can extend radially inward toward a center of chassis 310, In some embodiments, teeth 354 can extend radially outward away from the center of chassis 310. In some embodiments, teeth 354 can extend axially above or below cam 326 and toward first or second ends 302, 304 or display stem 300.

[0077] In some embodiments, geared motor can drive cam 326 in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction, or both. For example, cam 326 can rotate in one direction only, such that a first pawl 322 is urged into locked position 30 by a first protruding portion 350, and the next time the securement mechanism is activated, a second protruding portion 350 urges first pawl 322 into locked position 30. In some embodiments, geared motor 328 can rotate cam 326 in a first direction to move pawl 322 into locked position 30, and then rotate cam 326 in a second direction opposite the first direction to move pawl 322 into the unlocked position 40.

[0078] In some embodiments, retainer 200 and display stem 300 can include clocking features 232, 360 that automatically return retainer 200 to a default position and / or one of one or more predefined orientations relative to display stem 300. As shown, for example, in FIG. 8, an underside 230 of lower body 214 of retainer 200 includes clocking surface 232. Clocking surface 232 defines an undulating surface 234 that includes a plurality of rounded peaks 236 and a plurality of rounded valleys 238 disposed between neighboring peaks 236. Clocking surface 232 extends around a circumference of underside 230 of lower body 214. As shown, for example, in FIG. 9, a recessed surface 360 is formed in first end 302 of display stem 300 and includes a plurality of rounded peaks 362 and a plurality of rounded valleys 364 disposed between neighboring peaks 362. In some embodiments, recessed surface 360 surrounds recess 330 on display stem 300 and inward of a perimeter of first end 302 of display stem 300.

[0079] In some embodiments, when retainer 200 is supported by display stem 300, clocking surface 232 contacts recessed surface 360 causing retainer 200 to rotate into one or more predefined orientations relative to display stem 300. In some embodiments, sloped surfaces between the peaks 236, 362 and the valleys 238, 364 urge rotation of retainer 200 relative to display stem 300 by gravity and tension on the retainer 200. The predefined orientations may correspond to positions where peaks 236 of clocking surface 232 are centered and disposed in valleys 364 of recessed surface 360, or peaks 362 of recessed surface 360 are centered and disposed in valleys 238 of clocking surface 232.

[0080] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, clocking surface 232 and recessed surface 360 include four peaks 236, 362 and four valleys 238, 364 corresponding to four predefined orientations of the retainer 200 and product 10 relative to display stem 300.

[0081] The predefined orientations may, for example, correspond to portrait and landscape orientations for a display screen of product 10. In some embodiments, peaks 236, 362 and valleys 238, 364 include varying radii. In some embodiments, peak 236 of clocking surface 232 may include a radius equal to a radius of valley 364 of recessed surface 360 such that the undulating surfaces are flush. In some embodiments, peak 236 of clocking surface 232 may include a radius smaller than a radius of valley 364 of recessed surface 360 as shown, for example, in FIG. 10. In some embodiments, peak 236 of clocking surface 232 may include a radius larger than a radius of valley 364 of recessed surface 360 as shown, for example, in FIG. 10.

[0082] In some embodiments, retainer 200 and display stem 300 may include magnets that work with the clocking features 232, 360 to urge retainer 200 into the predefined orientations relative to display stem 300. Magnetic interaction between magnet arrays in retainer 200 and display stem 300 may automatically position and / or orient retainer 200 relative to display stem 300. For example, when protrusion 218 of lower body 214 is inserted into recess 330 of display stem 300, magnetic interaction between magnet arrays may serve to automatically orient retainer 200 into one of one or more predefined orientations that correspond to the respective clocking features of the retainer 200 and display stem 300.

[0083] In some embodiments, retainer 200 includes retainer bracket 210 and retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 that are movably coupled to upper body 212 of retainer bracket 210, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 15A. Retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 may translate relative to upper body 212 to accommodate variations of dimensions of different products 10 secured to retainer 200. For example, compared to a regular-sized mobile telephone, retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 may be translated a small distance away from upper body 212 to accommodate a larger, plus-sized mobile telephone model using the same retainer bracket 210 and retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226.

[0084] In some embodiments, a first retaining arm 220 may include an integrated circuit to transfer power and data to product 10.

[0085] In some embodiments, upper body includes a plurality of slots 264 that are formed in a top side 260 of upper body 212. In some embodiments, top side 260 contacts product 10 when product 10 is secured by retainer 200. In some embodiments, each slot 264 is configured to receive one of the retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226. In some embodiments, slots 264 can form a T-shape cross-sectional shape.

[0086] In some embodiments, at least one slot 264 can include contact pins 262 configured to engage an elongated electrical contact 252 on one of the retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226. Contact pins 262 can transfer power from retainer bracket 210 to elongated electrical contact 252 on retaining arm 220 and to product 10.

[0087] Retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 can be configured to extend around sides 12 of product 10 to secure and hold product 10 to the retainer 200 as shown, for example, in FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, retainer 200 can include four retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226, such that each retaining arm 220, 222, 224, 226 extends around each side of product 10. In some embodiments, retainer 200 can include two retaining arms 220, 222 such that retaining arms extend around only two opposite sides of product 10. In some embodiments, retainer 200 may include three, five, six, or more retaining arms.

[0088] As shown, for example in FIGS. 1–2B and 15A, a first retaining arm 220 can extend in a first direction away from retainer bracket 210, and a second retaining arm 222 can extend in a second direction away from retainer bracket 210 opposite the first direction. In some embodiments, first retaining arm 220 extending first direction can be laterally offset from second retaining arm 222 extending in second direction. In some embodiments, first and second retaining arms 220, 222 are laterally offset to accommodate protruding features on a back side of product 10 such as a camera.

[0089] In some embodiments, a third retaining arm 224 can extend in a third direction away from retainer bracket 210, approximately perpendicular to the first retaining arm 220 and first direction. In some embodiments, a fourth retaining arm 226 can extend in a fourth direction away from retainer bracket 210 opposite the third direction.

[0090] In some embodiments, third and fourth retaining arm 224, 226 may be bracing arms that extend across a portion of a width of length of product 10 without extending around sides 12 of product 10. Bracing arms may support a rear side of product 10 without physically securing product 10 to retainer 200. Bracing arms may not be visible to a user or obstruct a display screen of the product 10 in any way.

[0091] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 11, retaining arm 220 can include a proximal end 240 coupled to upper body 212, a hook 244 disposed at a distal end 242 opposite proximal end 240, a first side 246 that faces product 10, a second side 248 opposite first side 246, and a circuit 250. Hook 244 extends around a peripheral side 12 of product 10 to secure product 10 to retainer 200. In some embodiments, hook 244 can include a device plug 256 that extends into a connector port 14 of product 10. In some embodiments, device plug can be one of a USC type-C or type-A plug, a bespoke plug for a particular device, an AC or DC socket, or other similar plugs that transfer power and data to product 10. Retaining arms 222, 224, 226 can be substantially similar to retaining arm 220 but do not include circuit 250 and are not configured to transfer power and / or data to product 10.

[0092] Circuit 250 can be configured to transmit power and / or data to product 10 from retainer bracket 210. Circuit 250 can extend along the length of retaining arm 220 from the proximal end 240 to the distal end 242 and connect to the device plug 256 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 11, 13, and 14.

[0093] In some embodiments, circuit 250 is integrated into retaining arm 220 and is not visible when product 10 is disposed in retainer 200, which may facilitate a clean, visual appearance of retainer 200. In some embodiments, circuit 250 is a printed circuit. Circuit 250 can include elongated electrical contact 252 and main body 254. In some embodiments, main body 254 of circuit 250 extends along first side 246 of retaining arm 220 adjacent to product 10.

[0094] In some embodiments, elongated electrical contact 252 is disposed at proximal end 240 of retaining arm 220 on second side 248. Elongated electrical contact 252 extends along a small length of second side 248 of retaining arm 220 and is configured to engage contact pins 262 of retainer bracket 210. Elongated electrical contact 252 extends along a small distance of the length of retaining arm 220 such that elongated electrical contact 252 remains in contact with contact pins 262 when retaining arm 220 is adjusted to accommodate a varying dimension (e.g., length) of product 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, a tapered groove 258 is formed in second side 248 of each one of retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 15A–16B. Tapered groove 258 is configured to adjustably couple retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 with retainer bracket 210. In some embodiments, tapered groove 258 extends in a length direction of retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226. In some embodiments, a width of tapered groove 258 increases as tapered groove extends from proximal end 240 to distal end 242 of retaining arm 220. In some embodiments, a depth of tapered groove 258 increases as tapered groove extends from proximal end 240 to distal end 242 of retaining arm 220.

[0096] In some embodiments, retainer bracket 210 includes a retaining pin 270 that engages with tapered groove 258 to adjustably couple retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 with retainer bracket 210. Retaining pin 270 extends through apertures 268 formed in bottom side 266 of upper body 212. Apertures 268 align with slots 264 of upper body 212 such that retaining pins 270 align with retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226. Retaining pins 270 include a threaded portion 272 that threadably engages aperture 268 of upper body 212, and a conical portion 274 that extends into tapered groove 258 to couple therewith.

[0097] Retaining pin 270 and tapered groove 258 are configured to prevent retaining arms 220, 222, 224, 226 from translating relative to the retainer bracket 210 in a direction extending away from the retainer bracket 210. In some embodiments, the connection between retaining pin 270 and tapered groove 258 becomes tighter if a retaining arm 220, 222, 224, 226 is pulled away from retainer bracket 210, for example, if the product-display system 100 is being tampered with to remove product 10 from retainer 200. For example, when retaining arm 220 is coupled to retainer bracket 210 in a first position 50, as shown in FIG. 16A, conical portion 274 of retaining pin 270 extends into a shallow, narrow portion of tapered groove 258. The tapering depth and width of tapered groove 258 prevents retaining arm 220 from translating further away from retainer bracket 210 (to the right as shown in FIG. 16A). Retaining arm 220 could translate towards the retainer bracket 210, but when product 10 is secured by retaining arm 220, product 10 prevents retaining arm 220 from translating in this direction. As such, retaining arm 220 is secured in first position 50 by retaining pin 270 and product 10. FIG. 16B illustrates another example of retaining arm 220 being secured in a second position 60 that closer to retainer bracket 210. In the second position 60, retaining pin 270 can extend further into taper groove 258 at a wider and deeper portion of tapered groove.

[0098] Each of the components and their constituent parts, and other variations described herein may include corresponding features described with reference to each of the other components and features described without limitation.

[0099] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

[0100] It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users.

Claims

1. A product-display system, comprising:a retainer bracket for retaining an electronic device, the retainer bracket comprising a groove formed in a distal end of the retainer bracket; anda stem configured to receive the retainer bracket and releasably couple with the retainer bracket, the stem comprising a chassis and a pawl movably coupled to the chassis,wherein the pawl is movable between a locked position that prevents separation of the retainer bracket from the stem and an unlocked position that allows the retainer bracket to separate from the stem, andwherein in the locked position the pawl is received in the groove.

2. The product-display system of claim 1, wherein the pawl is rotatably coupled to the chassis.

3. The product-display system of claim 1, wherein the pawl is biased into the unlocked position by a spring.

4. The product-display system of claim 1, wherein the stem further comprises a cam movably coupled to the chassis and configured to move the pawl into the locked position.

5. The product-display system of claim 4, wherein the cam is a cam ring rotatably coupled to the chassis.

6. The product-display system of claim 4, wherein the cam comprises a plurality of teeth and the plurality of teeth are driven by a geared motor to move the cam relative to the chassis.

7. The product-display system of claim 1, wherein the pawl includes a body, a locking arm disposed at a distal end of the body, and a rocker disposed at a proximal end of the body.

8. The product-display system of claim 7, wherein the locking arm is received in the groove of the retainer bracket when the pawl is in the locked position.

9. The product-display system of claim 1, wherein the retainer bracket comprises a clocking surface and the stem comprises a recess surface, and wherein interaction between the clocking surface and the recessed surface causes rotation of the retainer bracket to the at least one predefined orientation.

10. The product-display system of claim 16 wherein the clocking surface comprises a rounded peak, and wherein the recessed surface comprises a rounded valley configured to receive the rounded peak of the clocking surface in the at least one predefined orientation.

11. A product-display system, comprising:a retainer bracket; anda retaining arm movably coupled to the retainer bracket and configured to secure a device to the retainer bracket, the retaining arm comprising a circuit configured to supply power to the device,wherein the retaining arm moves relative to the retainer bracket to accommodate a second device having a length or width different to the device.

12. The product-display system of claim 11, wherein the retaining arm further comprises a device plug coupled to the circuit and disposed at a distal end of the retaining arm, andwherein the device plug is configured to be inserted into the device to supply power to the device.

13. The product-display system of claim 11, wherein the circuit is integrated within and extends from a proximal end of the retaining arm to a distal end of the retaining arm.

14. The product-display system of claim 13, wherein the circuit comprises at least one elongated electrical contact disposed and the proximal end of the retaining arm.

15. The product-display system of claim 14, wherein the retainer bracket comprises at least one pin configured to engage the at least one elongated electrical contact of the circuit to transfer power from the retainer bracket to the retaining arm.

16. The product-display system of claim 13, wherein the circuit further comprises a main body extending along a first side of the retaining arm, and wherein the elongated electrical connector is disposed on a second side of the retaining arm opposite the first side.

17. The product-display system of claim 11, further comprising a second retaining arm moveably coupled to the retainer bracket,wherein the retaining arm extends in a first direction away from the retainer bracket and the second retaining arm extends in a second direction away from the retainer bracket opposite the first direction, andwherein the second retaining arm is laterally offset from the retaining arm.

18. The product-display system of claim 17, further comprising a third retaining arm and a fourth retaining arm moveably coupled to the retainer bracket,wherein the third retaining arm extending in a third direction away from the retainer bracket and the fourth retaining arm extending in a fourth direction away from the retainer bracket opposite the third direction, andwherein the third direction is approximately perpendicular to the second direction.

19. The product-display system of claim 11, further comprising a retaining pin configured to extend into a tapered groove formed in the retaining arm and couple the retaining arm to the retainer bracket.

20. The product-display system of claim 19, wherein the tapered groove extends along a length direction of the retaining arm, and wherein a width and a depth of the tapered groove decreases as the tapered groove extends toward a proximal end of the retaining arm.

21. The product-display system of claim 19, wherein the retaining pin is configured to prevent the retaining arm from translating relative to the retainer bracket in a direction extending away from the retainer bracket.

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