Electronic shelf label system

Abstract

A modular, electronic shelf label (201, 203, 205, 207, 209, 218, 219, 221-224) mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf, including a host unit (231 ) including a housing (232, 233), a communicator (244) located within the housing (232, 233) for receiving label data for merchandise (110-118) on the shelf (101-109) from a server computer (150), sending data to the server (150), and communicating with communicators (244) in other host units (231 ), a first connection slot (251 ) in a top or front surface of the housing (232, 233), a second connection slot (272) in a rear or bottom surface of the housing (232, 233), first electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a first module (235) to the communicator (244) via the first connection slot (251 ), and second electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a second module (235) to the communicator (244) via the second connection slot (272), a first module (235) connected to the host unit (231 ) via the first connection slot (251 ), and a second module (235), connected to the host unit (231 ) via the second connection slot (272).

Description

ELECTRONIC SHELF LABEL SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to electronic shelf label (ESL) systems used by retailers for displaying product pricing and other product information on retail shelving. The retailer updates the displayed pricing and other product information on a server computer that broadcasts the updated information to ESLs in the retailer’s stores. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Prior art ESLs are small electronic paper (E-paper) or liquid-crystal display (LCD) displays mounted along store shelves and display product prices and other product information to shoppers. A communication network connects a server computer to ESLs in a retailer’s stores and enables the retailer to update product prices and broadcast the updated prices to ESLs throughout the retailer’s stores. Prior art ESL systems lack modularity, requiring significant cost to upgrade an existing system, e.g., to replace the displays or add functionality. The present invention addresses these shortcomings and provides additional advantages. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -1-SUMMARY

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention provide a modular, electronic shelf label system including a mounting rail mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, including a straight mounting bracket configured to allow sliding or variable-position attachment of a plurality of host units, a plurality of host units attached to the mounting bracket, each host unit including a housing configured to be attached to the mounting bracket, a communicator located within the housing for receiving label data for merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack from a server computer, sending data to the server computer, and communicating with communicators in other host units, a first connection slot in a top or front surface of the housing, a second connection slot in a rear or bottom surface of the housing, first electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a first module to the communicator via the first connection slot, and second electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a second module to the communicator via the second connection slot, first modules, each connected to a respective one of the host units via the first connection slot, at least one of which includes an electronic display that dynamically displays the received label data on a front surface of its module, and second modules, each connected to a respective one of the host units via the second connection slot.

[0004] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the label data includes price, name, inventory level, bar code, quick-response (QR) code, or an image, of merchandise on the shelf or display rack, and the data sent to the server includes acknowledgement that the label data was received from the server computer.

[0005] According to features in embodiments of the invention, diagnostic data is sent by the host communicator to the server computer, including at Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -2-least one of: host unit hardware version, host unit software version, host unit battery voltage, host unit temperature, and signal strength received by the host unit.

[0006] According to features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the host units is connected to a sensor operable to detect ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, or inventory of merchandise on the shelf or display rack, and wherein sensor detection data is transmitted by the communicator in the at least one host unit to the server or to other host units.

[0007] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a first continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for conducting electric current to the host units, and a second continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for electrically grounding the host units, and each of the host units further includes first and second electrical connectors that attach to the first and second continuous electrodes, respectively.

[0008] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the first modules includes a light harvesting panel, and the first continuous electrode conducts electric current from the light harvesting panel to the host units.

[0009] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the first electrode is operable to provide power-line communication between different ones of the host units and between the server computer and the host units.

[0010] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system further includes a flexible connector for connecting the first and second electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -3-

[0011] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a third continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for transmitting data between different ones of the host units and between the server computer and the host units, and each of the host units further includes a third electrical connector that attaches to the third electrode.

[0012] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system further includes a flexible connector for connecting the first, second and third electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

[0013] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the communicator enables radio frequency (RF) communication.

[0014] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the communicator enables infrared (IR) communication.

[0015] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes an optical rail along the mounting bracket for transmitting the IR communication signals between different ones of the host units and between a server computer and the host units, and a slit along the length of the optical rail, and each of the host units further includes an IR emitter and receiver, configured to be inserted into the optical rail via the slit.

[0016] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the optical rail further includes a baffle structure to prevent light leakage.

[0017] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, walls of the optical rail are made of light-absorbing material to decrease glare and stray reflections.

[0018] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, walls of the optical rail include a flexible material that seals the slit, to prevent light leakage from the optical rail via the slit. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -4-

[0019] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, transmission paths through the optical rail are shorter than leakage paths, to prevent light leakage.

[0020] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system further includes a terminal block at an end of the optical rail to prevent light leakage from the optical rail.

[0021] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system further includes a flexible connector for connecting the optical rail to an optical rail in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

[0022] According to features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the first modules includes a display that dynamically displays the received label data, the display being one of: an electronic paper display, a reflective liquid crystal display (LCD) display, a backlit LCD display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, and a light emitting diode (LED) matrix display.

[0023] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the display is arrow-shaped, triangular or circular.

[0024] According to features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the host units further includes an LED mounted in the housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of the housing, and a patterned lens structure mounted in front of the LED configured to spread light from the LED.

[0025] According to features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the second modules is a battery pack that provides electric current to its connected host unit.

[0026] According to features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the second modules is an optical sensor detecting presence and absence of the merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack, and Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -5-wherein the communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

[0027] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the optical sensor is a camera, a proximity sensor or a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensor.

[0028] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the second modules is an illumination module that illuminates the merchandise on the shelf or display rack.

[0029] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the illumination module includes a multicolor LED, and a cover configured to spread light from the multicolor LED.

[0030] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, at least one of the first modules is a sensor detecting ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, or customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein sensor detection data is transmitted by the communicator to the server computer or to other host units.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention further provide a modular, electronic shelf label mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, including a host unit including a housing, a communicator located within the housing for receiving label data for merchandise on a shelf or display rack from a server computer, sending data to the server, and communicating with communicators in other host units, a first connection slot in a top or front surface of the housing, a second connection slot in a rear or bottom surface of the housing, first electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a first module to the communicator via the first connection slot, and second electrical interconnection functionality located within the housing for connecting a second module to the communicator via the Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -6-second connection slot, a first module connected to the host unit via the first connection slot, and a second module, connected to the host unit via the second connection slot.

[0032] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the second connection slot is rotationally symmetrical.

[0033] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the second connection slot is a USB Type-C receptacle.

[0034] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label includes a male connector attached to the first module and a lock on the host unit for securing the male connector in the first connection slot.

[0035] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the first module includes an electronic display that dynamically displays the received label data on a front surface of the module.

[0036] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic display is an electronic paper display, a reflective LCD display, a backlit LCD display, an OLED display, or an LED matrix display.

[0037] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the displayed label data includes price, name, inventory level, bar code, QR code, or an image, of the merchandise.

[0038] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label includes a flexible joiner between the male connector and the first module, such that the first module is rotatable while connected to the host unit.

[0039] According to features in embodiments of the invention, a European Article Number (EAN) code is printed on a rear surface of the first module.

[0040] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic display is arrow shaped, triangular or circular. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -7-

[0041] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic display includes a removable, non-active frame surrounding an active display area.

[0042] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the communicator is operable to receive the label data from the server computer wirelessly.

[0043] According to further features in embodiments of the invention, the communicator includes an IR sensor mounted along the top or front surface of the housing.

[0044] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the communicator enables RF communication.

[0045] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label further includes an LED mounted in the housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of the housing, and a patterned lens mounted in front of the LED that spreads light from the LED.

[0046] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the second module is a battery pack that provides electric current to the host unit.

[0047] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the second module is an optical sensor for detecting presence and absence of the merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack, and the communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

[0048] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the optical sensor is a camera, a proximity sensor or a LIDAR sensor.

[0049] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the second module is an illumination module that includes a multicolor LED, and a cover configured to spread light from the multicolor LED and illuminate merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -8-

[0050] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the first module is a sensor detecting ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, or customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein the communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

[0051] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label further includes an LED mounted in the housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of the housing, and an extender for the host unit, connected to the first connection slot, including a translucent housing illuminated by the LED, a connection slot in a front surface of the translucent housing for attaching the first module to the extender, and electrical interconnection functionality located within the translucent housing for transmitting data between the host unit and the first module.

[0052] Embodiments of the present invention further provide a mounting rail including a straight mounting bracket mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, and configured to allow sliding or variable-position attachment of a plurality of electronic shelf label units, a first continuous electrode along the length of the mounting bracket, for conducting electric current to the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail, and a second continuous electrode along the length of the mounting bracket for electrically grounding the electronic shelf label units.

[0053] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the first electrode is operable to provide power-line data communication between different electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail.

[0054] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail includes a third continuous electrode along the length of the mounting bracket for transmitting data between the electronic shelf label Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -9-units mounted on the rail and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail.

[0055] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a flexible connector at an end of the rail for connecting the electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

[0056] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a terminal block bridging the electrodes at an end of the rail to prevent signal reflections, and to prevent human contact with the electrodes.

[0057] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes an optical rail along the mounting bracket for transmitting optical data between the electronic shelf label units and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units, and a slit along the length of the optical rail through which an optical data port for each electronic shelf label unit is inserted into the optical rail.

[0058] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the optical rail further includes a baffle structure to prevent light leakage.

[0059] According to features in embodiments of the invention, walls of the optical rail include light-absorbing material to decrease glare and stray reflections.

[0060] According to features in embodiments of the invention, walls of the optical rail include a flexible material that seals the slit, to prevent light leakage from the optical rail via the slit.

[0061] According to features in embodiments of the invention, transmission paths through the optical rail are shorter than leakage paths, to prevent light leakage. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -10-

[0062] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a terminal block at an end of the optical rail to prevent light leakage from the optical rail.

[0063] According to features in embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a flexible connector for connecting the optical rail to a corresponding optical rail in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -11-BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] The present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:

[0065] FIG. 1 illustrates two merchandise shelves with electronic shelf labels, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates a merchandise shelf with electronic shelf labels that receive label data from a server computer, in accordance with embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] FIG. 4 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] FIG. 6 is a rear view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] FIG. 8 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -12-

[0073] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] FIG. 10 is a rear view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] FIG. 13 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a triangular electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a triangular electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] FIG. 15 is a rear view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a triangular electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] FIG. 16 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a circular electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] FIG. 17 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and an arrow-shaped electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0082] FIGS. 18 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a large-format electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -13-

[0083] FIG. 19 is a front view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and a rigid electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] FIG. 20 is a front view of a host unit and a light harvesting module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of a host unit and an extension module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0086] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of a host unit and an extension module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of a host unit and an extension module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of a host unit and a camera module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] FIG. 25 is a front view of a host unit and a camera module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0090] FIG. 26 is an exploded view of a host unit and a sensor module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0091] FIG. 27 is a front view of a host unit and a sensor module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0092] FIG. 28 is an illustration of a first connection slot in the front of a host unit and a corresponding male connector on a first module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0093] FIG. 29 is an illustration of a first connection slot in the front of a host unit, a corresponding male connector on a first module, and electronics in a host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0094] FIG. 30 is an illustration of a host unit connection slot and a corresponding male connector on a first module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -14-

[0095] FIG. 31 is an illustration of optics in a host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0096] FIG. 32 is an exploded view of optics in a host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0097] FIG. 33 is a front view of a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0098] FIG. 34 is an exploded view of a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0099] FIG. 35 is an exploded view of an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0100] FIGS. 36 is an exploded view of an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0101] FIG. 37 illustrates a host unit mounted under a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0102] FIG. 38 is an exploded view of a host unit mounted under a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0103] FIG. 39 illustrates a host unit mounted under a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0104] FIG. 40 illustrates a host unit with a display module mounted under a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0105] FIG. 41 illustrates a host unit with a display module mounted vertically on the forward-facing surface of a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0106] FIG. 42 illustrates a host unit with a display module mounted vertically on the forward-facing surface of a shelf, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0107] FIG. 43 illustrates a display module configured for a vertically mounted host unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -15-

[0108] FIG. 44 illustrates a host unit, with a display module and an illumination module, vertically mounted on a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0109] FIG. 45 is an exploded view of a vertically mounted host unit, with a display module and an illumination module, on a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0110] FIG. 46 is an exploded view of a vertically mounted host unit, with an illumination module, on a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0111] FIG. 47 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label host unit, a variety of different modules that can be connected to the front and rear of the host module and a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0112] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0113] FIG.49 is a cross-sectional view of a mounting rail, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0114] FIG. 50 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0115] FIG. 51 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit, an electronic display module and a battery pack module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0116] FIG. 52 is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label including a host unit and an electronic display module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] In the disclosure and figures, the following numbering scheme is used. Like numbered elements are similar but not necessarily identical. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -16-Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -17-Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -18-DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0118] The present invention provides a modular architecture for electronic shelf label systems. This modular architecture enables adding functionalities to an existing electronic shelf label system with minimal hardware replacement.

[0119] The modular architecture for electronic shelf label systems according to the present invention enables incremental upgrades to electronic shelf label systems over time without replacing the entire system for each upgrade. For example, an electronic shelf label system includes ESLs that use battery power; later, the system is reconfigured to provide power to the ESLs via power lines in the mounting rail on which the ESLs are mounted; and still later, the system is reconfigured to add data communication over the mounting rail for ESLs mounted on the rail to communicate with each other and with a server computer. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, these three different configurations use the same electronic shelf labels and add power and data lines to the existing mounting rail. Even when new functions and features require new hardware, the modular architecture of the present invention enables incorporating small hardware modules into an installed ESL system, without replacing the entire system.

[0120] Reference is made to FIG. 1, which is a simplified illustration of merchandise shelves 101, 102, each featuring a mounting rail with a plurality of electronic shelf labels below merchandise 110, 111, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A first mounting rail is attached to the underside of shelf 101, whereby electronic shelf label units 201, 203, 207, 209 are mounted horizontally on the rail. A second mounting rail is attached to the customer-facing edge of shelf 102, whereby electronic shelf label units 210, 218, 219 are mounted vertically on the rail. In the present specification, the term “mounted horizontally” Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -19-indicates a housing oriented such that it has minimal height, as ESL host unit 231 is shown in FIGS. 37 and 39, the term “mounted vertically” indicates a housing oriented upright, as ESL host unit 231 is shown in FIGS. 41 and 42.

[0121] The modular architecture of the electronic shelf label system enables the retailer to use the same mounting rails and the same electronic shelf label host units for the variety of labels and label features shown in FIG. 1. Namely, electronic shelf labels 201, 203, 205 and 207 feature flexible displays in different shapes, sizes and colors; electronic shelf labels 209, 210, 218 and 219 are all rigid displays; electronic shelf labels 210, 218 and 219, feature illuminated bars of different colors beneath their displays; the displays for electronic shelf labels 201, 203, 205, 207 and 209 are suspended and hang down from shelf 101, whereas electronic shelf labels 210, 218 and 219 are all upright.

[0122] Reference is made to FIG. 2, showing how electronic label data is sent by a server computer 150 via wireless transmitter 155 to electronic shelf labels 221 – 224, corresponding to merchandise 115 – 118, respectively, on retail shelf 105, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, electronic label data is transmitted via infrared (IR) beams 131, 134. In other embodiments, radio frequency (RF) transmission is used. In certain embodiments, the RF transmission conforms to a standard, such as Bluetooth®, near-field communication (NFC), radio-frequency identification (RFID), or other standards. BLUETOOTH is a registered trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. In certain embodiments discussed hereinbelow, the electronic label data is transmitted from the server – either wirelessly or over a wired connection, to the mounting rail, and then transmitted via the mounting rail to the electronic shelf labels. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -20-

[0123] Reference is made to FIG. 3, which is an exploded view of an electronic shelf label, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The electronic shelf label features host unit 231, a first module 235 that connects to the front of host unit 231 and a second module 261 that connects to the rear of host unit 231. Host unit 231 includes a fastener for attaching the unit to a mounting rail and communications hardware for communicating with the server and with other host units. As discussed with reference to FIG. 1, host unit 231 can be mounted either vertically or horizontally, depending on the orientation of the mounting rail. When mounted vertically, connection slot 251 is located at the top of unit 231; when mounted horizontally, connection slot 251 is located at the front of unit 231, that is, facing customer traffic. Host unit 231 features connection slot 251 for connecting first module 235 using male connector 252. A second connection slot (not shown) at the rear of host unit 231 enables connecting second module 261 using connector 271.

[0124] In FIG.3, module 235 is an electronic display for displaying price, name, inventory level, bar code, QR code, or an image, of the merchandise, and module 261 is a battery pack for providing electric current to the electronic shelf label. In embodiments of the invention, module 235 is an electronic paper display, a reflective liquid crystal display (LCD) display, a backlit LCD display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, or a light emitting diode (LED) matrix display.

[0125] Reference is made to FIG. 4, showing the electronic shelf label of FIG. 3, with connected display module 235 and battery pack module 261. Display module 235 is suspended by its connection to host unit 231 by flexible joiner 274. This joiner enables the retail staff to flip up display module 235 to view its reverse side without having to detach the display from the host, nor dismount the host unit from the mounting rail. This Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -21-feature enables the retail staff to easily view and scan information, such as part numbers, printed on the rear of the display, as discussed hereinbelow.

[0126] Reference is made to FIG. 5, which is an exploded view of the electronic shelf label of FIG. 3, seen from below. FIG. 5 shows second connection slot 272 on the rear of host unit 231, for receiving connector 271. Connection slot 272 is rotationally symmetrical, enabling the second module to be connected in two orientations. In certain embodiments, connection slot 272 is a USB-C receptacle, and connector 271 is a USB-C connector. Stiffeners or supports 245, 246 located at the two edges of module 261 are also configured to fit into slots 247, 248 at the two edges of the rear of host unit 231, in both connection orientations.

[0127] Rotational symmetry for the rear connection slot is advantageous for several different types of module that connects via this slot. For example, a battery pack can function in either orientation. Thus, enabling the user to attach the battery pack in two orientations facilitates battery pack use. In contrast, customer-facing modules should be attached in a particular orientation, e.g., with the display surface facing customers, and therefore the first connection slot is not rotationally symmetric.

[0128] Reference is made to FIG. 6, showing a bottom-rear view of the electronic shelf label of FIG. 3, with connected display module 235 and battery pack module 261. EAN code 273 is printed on the reverse side of module 235. It is advantageous for the retailer to maximize the front side of display module 235 for information relevant to customers and to keep other data used by retail staff, like EAN codes, on the reverse side. As discussed hereinabove, making the reverse side readily accessible through flexible joiner 274, facilitates access to information on the reverse side of module 235.

[0129] Reference is made to FIG. 7, showing an electronic shelf label with host unit 231 and connected display module 235. Illumination Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -22-module 262 is shown with USB-C connector 271 ready to connect via connection slot 272 (not shown) at the rear of host unit 231. Illumination module 262 is used, e.g., to illuminate merchandise located on a shelf below the ESL. When the ESL is mounted horizontally above the merchandise, the illumination should exit the downward-facing side of the ESL, whereas when the ESL is mounted vertically on a shelf above the merchandise, the illumination should exit the backward-facing side of the ESL. The rotational symmetry of connection slot 272 enables rotating illumination module 262, such that the illumination is projected from the desired side. In some cases, the store manager will reverse the orientation of illumination module 262 in a vertically mounted ESL to illuminate the store aisle.

[0130] In certain embodiments, illumination module 262 includes color LEDs as light sources. When a series of host units mounted along a shelf edge is each connected to a respective illumination module 262, the server computer sends instructions to selectively illuminate the different illumination modules 262. This enables a variety of color changes and animated light movements along the length of the mounted illumination modules 262. Such illumination patterns focus attention on a particular shelf offering, or particular item of merchandise, or serve to add to the ambient light of the physical environment. For example, illumination modules 262 are used to change the store ambient lighting color during a specific season, event or campaign. In certain embodiments of the invention, the strength of the illumination and other visible aspects of lighting are configurable and are dynamically adjusted in response to instructions from the server. In yet other embodiments, the lighting is responsive to output from a sensor, e.g., the light is turned on when proximity sensor or camera detects that a shopper is approaching the merchandise shelf. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -23-

[0131] Reference is made to FIG. 8, showing the electronic shelf label of FIG. 7, featuring ESL host unit 231 with connected display module 235 and illumination module 262.

[0132] Reference is made to FIG. 9, showing an exploded view of the electronic shelf label of FIG. 7 from the bottom-rear. FIG. 9 shows how illumination module 262 connects to host unit 231 via connection slot 272 and connector 271. Connected display module 235 is shown with EAN code 273 on its reverse side, as discussed hereinabove.

[0133] Reference is made to FIG. 10, showing the electronic shelf label of FIG. 9, including host unit 231 with connected display module 235 and illumination module 262.

[0134] Reference is made to FIG. 11, which is an exploded view of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Host unit 231 includes housing top cover 232, housing bottom cover 233, front connection slot 251 and PCB 240. PCB 240 includes a communicator integrated circuit (not shown), first electrical interconnection functionality for connecting a first module to the communicator via connection slot 251, and second electrical interconnection functionality for connecting a second module to the communicator via rear connection slot 272. FIG. 11 also shows LED 241 and IR sensor 242 mounted on PCB 240 and patterned lens 243 for spreading light from LED 241 and directing incoming IR light onto sensor 242. LED 241 serves both to provide visible illumination on host unit 231 and to send IR data to wireless IR transmitter 155 shown in FIG. 2. IR sensor 242 receives data from server computer 150 shown in FIG. 2 via IR transmitter 155.

[0135] Reference is made to FIG. 12, which is an exploded view of host unit 231 from the bottom, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 shows housing top cover 232, housing bottom cover 233, PCB 240, connection slot 272 and patterned lens 243. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -24-

[0136] Reference is made to FIG. 13, showing host unit 231 connected to triangular display 234, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] Reference is made to FIG. 14, which is an exploded view showing how triangular display 234 connects to host unit 231 via connection slot 251, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Reference is made to FIG.15, showing a rear-bottom view of host unit 231 connected to triangular display 234, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. EAN code 273 is printed on the reverse side of triangular display 234.

[0139] Reference is made to FIG. 16, showing host unit 231 connected to circular display 236, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] Reference is made to FIG. 17, showing host unit 231 connected to arrow-shaped display 237, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] Reference is made to FIG. 18, showing host unit 231 connected to large-format display 238, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Reference is made to FIG. 19, showing host unit 231 connected to rigid, rectangular display 239, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Reference is made to FIG. 20, showing host unit 231 connected to light harvesting unit 255, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Light harvesting unit transmits electrical power to a number of host units mounted on a mounting rail, via continuous electrodes provided in the rail. Thus, a user may purchase a system according to the present invention that uses battery pack modules 261 shown in FIG. 4 to power the electronic shelf labels, and then change the source of power by Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -25-removing battery pack modules 261 and adding light harvesting module 255. The same display modules, host units, illumination modules, and other hardware, previously powered by battery pack modules 261 continue to operate with power from light harvesting module 255.

[0144] Reference is made to FIG. 21, showing extender 256 that attaches to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Extender 256 includes a translucent housing that is illuminated by LED 241 shown in FIG. 11. Extender 256 features connection slot 257 and includes electrical interconnection functionality for transmitting data between host unit 231 and a first module inserted into slot 257, to enable any module configured for connection slot 251 to operate when attached to connection slot 257.

[0145] Reference is made to FIG. 22, showing extender 256 attached to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a view from the bottom-rear of host unit 231.

[0146] Reference is made to FIG. 23, illustrating adaptor 258 that connects to pins in connection slot 251, when extender 256 is attached to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Reference is made to FIG. 24, showing camera module 259, with camera 280, that attaches to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Camera 280 captures customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf and images of inventory on the shelf across the aisle from the host unit. In some embodiments, host unit 231 transmits the captured images back to server computer 150 of FIG. 2 to track customer traffic flow through the store and for the server computer to determine inventory levels of products on the shelf across the aisle. Alternatively, host unit 231 activates an illuminator connected to host unit Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -26-231, or an illuminator connected to another host unit on the mounting rail, in response to an approaching shopper detected in the captured images.

[0148] Reference is made to FIG. 25, showing camera module 259, including camera 280, attached to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Reference is made to FIG. 26, showing sensor module 260 that attaches to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Sensor module 260 is configured to detect ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, customer flow in front of the shelf or display rack, or inventory of merchandise on the shelf or display rack. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, sensor module 260 includes a proximity sensor or a LIDAR sensor. Detection data from sensor module 260 is transmitted by the communicator in host 231 to server computer 150 of FIG. 2 or to other host units.

[0150] Reference is made to FIG. 27, showing sensor module 260 attached to the front of host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Reference is made to FIG. 28, showing a male connector of a first module that connects to host unit 231 through connection slot 251, with spring-loaded fastener 291 securing the connection, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In other embodiments of the invention different locking mechanisms are used to fasten a first module to the host unit. In embodiments of the invention, connector 251 is designed in accordance with a proprietary standard to ensure that connected modules will successfully perform in demanding retail environments and to ensure that only certified products are used with these connectors.

[0152] Reference is made to FIG. 29 showing, connection slot 251 of a host unit, male connector 252 of a first module that connects to the host Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -27-unit through connection slot 251, spring-loaded fastener 291 and communicator integrated circuit 244 mounted on PCB 240. Communicator integrated circuit 244 enables 2-way communication between host unit 231 and server computer 150 of FIG. 2, and also between host unit 231 and other host units. As discussed hereinabove, the label data transmitted from server computer 150 to host unit 231 includes price, name, inventory level, bar code, quick-response (QR) code, or an image, of merchandise on the shelf or display rack. Data sent to server computer 150, or to other host units, by communicator integrated circuit 244 includes acknowledgement that label data was received and diagnostic data including host unit hardware version, host unit software version, host unit battery voltage, host unit temperature, and signal strength received by the host unit. Sensor data and camera data are also transmitted to server computer 150, or to other host units, by communicator integrated circuit 244.

[0153] Reference is made to FIG. 30, showing connection slot 251 without its host unit, and male connector 252, spring-loaded fastener 291 and flexible joiner 274 of a first module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] Reference is made to FIG. 31, showing patterned lens 243 mounted in front of the optical emitter and receiver on PCB 240, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In certain embodiments, patterned lens 243 is a Fresnel lens or an annular ring structure.

[0155] Reference is made to FIG. 32, which is an exploded view showing patterned lens 243 mounted in front of, and separate from, LED 241 and IR sensor 242 on PCB 240, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -28-

[0156] Reference is made to FIG. 33, showing battery pack module 261 and connector 271, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Reference is made to FIG. 34, which is an exploded view of battery pack module 261, showing housing 292 and battery cells 293 and 294, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] Reference is made to FIG. 35, which is an exploded view of an illumination module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 shows housing top cover 295, circuit board 297, connector 271 and housing bottom cover 296. Housing bottom cover 296 is transparent or translucent and configured with a patterned lens structure to spread the illumination produced by a series of LEDs mounted on the underside of circuit board 297.

[0159] Reference is made to FIG. 36, which is an exploded view of the illumination module of FIG. 35, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 36, LEDs 300 are shown mounted in a row on the underside of circuit board 297 and facing housing bottom cover 296 configured with a patterned lens structure to spread the illumination produced by LEDs 300. FIG. 36 also shows housing top cover 295 and connector 271.

[0160] Reference is made to FIG. 37, illustrating mounting rail 504 underneath shelf 106, and host unit 231 mounted horizontally on mounting rail 504, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The front of host unit 231 faces customer flow.

[0161] Reference is made to FIG. 38, which is an exploded view of host unit 231 separate from mounting rail 504 underneath merchandise shelf 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -29-

[0162] Reference is made to FIG. 39, which is a view from above of host unit 231 attached to mounting rail 504 underneath merchandise shelf 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0163] Reference is made to FIG. 40, showing host unit 231 mounted under merchandise shelf 106, and display module 235 extending therefrom, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Display module 235 extends downward and does not block patterned lens structure 231.

[0164] Reference is made to FIG.41, illustrating mounting rail 505 along the customer-facing edge of merchandise shelf 107, and host unit 231 mounted vertically on mounting rail 505, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Rigid display module 298 is positioned in front of host unit 231. Rigid display module 298 is held in place by rigid joiner 299.

[0165] Reference is made to FIG. 42, which is a view from the side of mounting rail 505 along the customer-facing edge of merchandise shelf 107, and host unit 231 mounted vertically on mounting rail 505, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Rigid display module 298 is positioned in front of host unit 231.

[0166] Reference is made to FIG. 43, showing rigid display module 298, male connector 305 for connecting display module 298 to a host unit via the first connection slot in the top of the host unit. Rigid display module 298 is held in place by rigid joiner 299.

[0167] Reference is made to FIG. 44, which is a perspective view from the side of mounting rail 505 and host unit 231 mounted vertically on mounting rail 505, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Rigid display module 298 is positioned in front of host unit 231, and illumination module 262 is fastened to the bottom of host unit 231. As discussed hereinabove, illumination module 262 is configured to Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -30-illuminate the electronic shelf label, the airspace in front of the shelf, or merchandise on the shelf below, in different embodiments of the invention.

[0168] Reference is made to FIG.45, which is an exploded view from the front of mounting rail 505, host unit 231 oriented vertically, rigid display module 298 positioned above host unit 231 to indicate that it is lowered onto host unit 231, and illumination module 262 below host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Connector 271 of illumination module 262 connects to the connection slot on the bottom of host unit 231 with the two rigid stiffeners or supports 245, 246 securing illumination module 262 to the bottom of host unit 231.

[0169] Reference is made to FIG.46, which is an exploded view from the back of mounting rail 505, host unit 231 oriented vertically, and illumination module 262 below host unit 231, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Connector 271 of illumination module 262 connects to connection slot 272 on the bottom of host unit 231 with the two rigid stiffeners or supports 245, 246 entering corresponding cavities 247, 248 in the housing of host unit 231 to secure illumination module 262 to the bottom of host unit 231.

[0170] Reference is made to FIG.47, which is an exploded view of a host unit 231 and a variety of different modules that can be attached to provide a range of different functionalities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Modules configured to be connected via the connection slot in the front of host unit 231 are: light harvesting module 255, display modules 234 – 238, camera module 259, sensor module 260 and extender 256. Modules configured to be connected via the connection slot in the back of host unit 231 are: battery pack module 261 and illumination module 262. Host module 231 is configured to be mounted on mounting rail 506. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -31-

[0171] Reference is made to FIG. 48, illustrating mounting rail 507 positioned along the customer-facing edge of merchandise shelf 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Continuous electrode 301 extends along the length of mounting rail 507 to conducting electric current to host units mounted on the rail, and continuous electrode 302 extends along the length of mounting rail 507 to electrically ground the host units. Accordingly, each of the host units is configured with first and second electrical connectors, such as elements 310 and 311 in FIGS. 50 – 52, that attach to continuous electrodes 301 and 302, respectively. Optical rail 303 extends along the length of mounting rail 507 for transmitting IR communication signals to and from the host units mounted on the rail.

[0172] In certain embodiments of the invention, electrode 301 is operable to provide power-line communication between host units mounted on the rail. In some embodiments, as discussed hereinabove, the server computer is in communication with electrode 301 such that the power-line communication enables two-way communication between the server and the host units mounted on the rail.

[0173] In certain embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system includes a terminal block at an end of the mounting rail to prevent signal reflections in the metal wires, and also as a safety measure to prevent customers from physically touching exposed wires. In order to prevent signal reflections, the terminal block has a certain galvanic property to bridge the two metal wires. In another words, the block is not an isolator, but rather a poor conductor.

[0174] In some embodiments of the invention, a connector is provided for connecting electrodes 301 and 302 to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring mounting rail. In certain embodiments of the invention, this Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -32-connector is flexible to enable connecting non-aligned, neighboring mounting rails.

[0175] In certain embodiments of the invention, the mounting rail further includes a third continuous electrode (not shown) along the length of the mounting rail for transmitting data between host units and between the server computer and the host units, and each of the host units further includes a third electrical connector that attaches to the third electrode. In this case, the flexible connector connects this third continuous electrode to a corresponding electrode in the neighboring mounting rail, as well.

[0176] Reference is made to FIG. 49, which is a cross sectional view of mounting rail 507 positioned along the customer-facing edge of merchandise shelf 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 49 shows cross-sections of electrodes 301 and 302 and optical rail 303. A slit along the length of the optical rail is shown in the figure, to enable each of the host units to insert an IR emitter and receiver into the optical rail via the slit.

[0177] In certain embodiments of the invention, the optical rail is configured to prevent light leakage through a range of features, including a baffle structure, walls of light-absorbing material that decrease glare and stray reflections, flexible walls of the optical rail that seal the slit, and shorter transmission paths than leakage paths.

[0178] In certain embodiments of the invention, the electronic shelf label system includes a terminal block at an end of the optical rail to prevent light leakage from the optical rail, or a flexible connector for connecting the optical rail with an optical rail in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

[0179] Reference is made to FIG. 50, which is a perspective view showing electrodes 310, 311 on host unit 231 that connect to electrodes 301 and 302 of FIG.49, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Electrodes 310, 311 are located along edges of an oval Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -33-extension that fits into the mounting rail mounting bracket to allow sliding or variable-position attachment of the host unit to the mounting rail. FIG. 50 also shows battery pack module 261 and display module 235.

[0180] In certain embodiments, when host unit 231 receives electrical power from battery pack unit 261, electrodes 310, 311 are not active. The system is modified from being powered by a dedicated battery pack for each ESL to receiving power via electrodes 301 and 302 by removing the battery packs and adding electrodes 301 and 302 to the existing mounting rail, without replacing the host units or the mounting rail.

[0181] FIG. 50 also shows track 315 configured to receive optical rail 303, to enable IR communication with host unit 231 via optical data transmitted via optical rail 303. Host unit 231 includes an IR port along track 315 that is inserted into optical rail 303 as discussed hereinabove.

[0182] Reference is made to FIG. 51, showing a top view of electrodes 310, 311 and slot 315 configured to receive optical rail 303 on host unit 231. FIG. 51 also shows battery pack module 261 and display module 235.

[0183] Reference is made to FIG. 52, showing a perspective view from the side of electrodes 310, 311 and slot 315 configured to receive optical rail 303 on host unit 231. FIG. 52 also shows display module 235 and male connector 252.

[0184] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to the specific exemplary embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -34-

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A modular, electronic shelf label system comprising: a mounting rail mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, comprising: a straight mounting bracket configured to allow sliding or variable-position attachment of a plurality of host units; a plurality of host units attached to said mounting bracket, each host unit comprising: a housing configured to be attached to said mounting bracket; a communicator located within said housing for receiving label data for merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack from a server computer, sending data to the server computer, and communicating with communicators in other host units; a first connection slot in a top or front surface of said housing; a second connection slot in a rear or bottom surface of said housing; first electrical interconnection functionality located within said housing for connecting a first module to the communicator via said first connection slot; and second electrical interconnection functionality located within said housing for connecting a second module to the communicator via said second connection slot; first modules, each connected to a respective one of said host units via said first connection slot, at least one of which comprises an electronic Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -35-display that dynamically displays the received label data on a front surface of its module; and second modules, each connected to a respective one of said host units via said second connection slot.

2. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein the label data comprises: price, name, inventory level, bar code, quick-response (QR) code, or an image, of merchandise on the shelf or display rack, and wherein the data sent to the server comprises: acknowledgement that the label data was received from the server computer.

3. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein diagnostic data is sent by said host communicator to the server computer, comprising at least one of: host unit hardware version, host unit software version, host unit battery voltage, host unit temperature, and signal strength received by the host unit.

4. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said host units is connected to a sensor operable to detect ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, or inventory of merchandise on the shelf or display rack, and wherein sensor detection data is transmitted by said communicator in said at least one host unit to the server computer or to other host units.

5. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein said mounting rail further comprises: Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -36-a first continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for conducting electric current to said host units; and a second continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for electrically grounding said host units; and wherein each of said host units further comprises: first and second electrical connectors that attach to said first and second continuous electrodes, respectively.

6. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 5, wherein at least one of said first modules comprises a light harvesting panel, and wherein said first continuous electrode conducts electric current from said light harvesting panel to said host units.

7. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 5, wherein said first electrode is operable to provide power-line communication between different ones of said host units and between the server computer and said host units.

8. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 5, further comprising: a flexible connector for connecting said first and second electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

9. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 5, wherein said mounting rail further comprises: a third continuous electrode along the length of the mounting rail for transmitting data between different ones of said host units and between the server computer and said host units; and wherein each of said host units further comprises: a third electrical connector that attaches to said third electrode. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -37-10. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 9, further comprising: a flexible connector for connecting said first, second and third electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

11. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein said communicator enables radio frequency (RF) communication.

12. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein said communicator enables infrared (IR) communication.

13. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 12, wherein said mounting rail further comprises: an optical rail along said mounting bracket for transmitting the IR communication signals between different ones of said host units and between a server computer and said host units; and a slit along the length of said optical rail; and wherein each of said host units further comprises: an IR emitter and receiver, configured to be inserted into said optical rail via said slit.

14. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, wherein said optical rail further comprises a baffle structure to prevent light leakage.

15. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, wherein walls of said optical rail comprise light-absorbing material to decrease glare and stray reflections. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -38-16. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, wherein walls of said optical rail comprise a flexible material that seals said slit, to prevent light leakage from said optical rail via said slit.

17. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, wherein transmission paths through said optical rail are shorter than leakage paths, to prevent light leakage.

18. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, further comprising: a terminal block at an end of said optical rail to prevent light leakage from said optical rail.

19. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 13, further comprising: a flexible connector for connecting said optical rail to an optical rail in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

20. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first modules comprises: a display that dynamically displays the received label data, the display being one of: an electronic paper display, a reflective liquid crystal display (LCD) display, a backlit LCD display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, and a light emitting diode (LED) matrix display.

21. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 20, wherein said display is arrow-shaped, triangular or circular. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -39-22. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said host units further comprises: an LED mounted in said housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of said housing; and a patterned lens structure mounted in front of said LED configured to spread light from said LED.

23. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said second modules is a battery pack that provides electric current to its connected host unit.

24. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said second modules is an optical sensor detecting presence and absence of the merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein said communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

25. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 24, wherein said optical sensor is a camera.

26. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 24, wherein said optical sensor is a proximity sensor or a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensor.

27. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said second modules is an illumination module that illuminates the merchandise on the shelf or display rack.

28. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 27, wherein said illumination module comprises: a multicolor LED; and Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -40-a cover configured to spread light from said multicolor LED.

29. The modular, electronic shelf label system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first modules is a sensor detecting ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, or customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein sensor detection data is transmitted by said communicator to the server computer or to other host units.

30. A modular, electronic shelf label mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, comprising: a host unit comprising: a housing; a communicator located within said housing for receiving label data for merchandise on a shelf or display rack from a server computer, sending data to the server, and communicating with communicators in other host units; a first connection slot in a top or front surface of said housing; a second connection slot in a rear or bottom surface of said housing; first electrical interconnection functionality located within said housing for connecting a first module to said communicator via said first connection slot; and second electrical interconnection functionality located within said housing for connecting a second module to said communicator via said second connection slot; a first module connected to said host unit via said first connection slot; and Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -41-a second module, connected to said host unit via said second connection slot.

31. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said second connection slot is rotationally symmetrical.

32. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 31, wherein said second connection slot comprises a USB Type-C receptacle.

33. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, further comprising a male connector attached to said first module and a lock on said host unit for securing said male connector in said first connection slot.

34. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said first module comprises an electronic display that dynamically displays the received label data on a front surface of the module.

35. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 34, wherein said electronic display is an electronic paper display, a reflective LCD display, a backlit LCD display, an OLED display, or an LED matrix display.

36. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 34, wherein the displayed label data comprises price, name, inventory level, bar code, QR code, or an image, of the merchandise.

37. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 34, further comprising a flexible joiner between said male connector and said first module, such that said first module is rotatable while connected to said host unit. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -42-38. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 37, further comprising a European Article Number (EAN) code printed on a rear surface of said first module.

39. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 34, wherein said electronic display is arrow shaped, triangular or circular.

40. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 35, wherein said electronic display comprises a removable, non-active frame surrounding an active display area.

41. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said communicator is operable to receive the label data from the server computer wirelessly.

42. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 41, wherein said communicator comprises an IR sensor mounted along the top or front surface of said housing.

43. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 41, wherein said communicator enables RF communication.

44. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, further comprising: an LED mounted in said housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of said housing; and a patterned lens mounted in front of said LED that spreads light from said LED. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -43-45. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said second module is a battery pack that provides electric current to said host unit.

46. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said second module is an optical sensor for detecting presence and absence of the merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein said communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

47. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 46, wherein the optical sensor is a camera.

48. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 46, wherein the optical sensor is a proximity sensor or a LIDAR sensor.

49. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said second module is an illumination module comprising: a multicolor LED; and a cover configured to spread light from said multicolor LED and illuminate merchandise on the merchandise shelf or display rack.

50. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, wherein said first module is a sensor detecting ambient light, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, or customer flow in front of the merchandise shelf or display rack, and wherein said communicator sends detection data from the sensor to the server computer or to other host units.

51. The modular, electronic shelf label of claim 30, further comprising: an LED mounted in said housing for emitting light along the top or front surface of said housing; and Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -44-an extender for said host unit, connected to said first connection slot, comprising: a translucent housing illuminated by said LED; a connection slot in a front surface of said translucent housing for attaching said first module to the extender; and electrical interconnection functionality located within said translucent housing for transmitting data between said host unit and said first module.

52. A mounting rail comprising: a straight mounting bracket mounted on, above or below, a merchandise shelf or display rack, and configured to allow sliding or variable-position attachment of a plurality of electronic shelf label units; a first continuous electrode along the length of said mounting bracket, for conducting electric current to the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail; and a second continuous electrode along the length of said mounting bracket for electrically grounding the electronic shelf label units.

53. The mounting rail of claim 52, wherein said first electrode is operable to provide power-line data communication between different electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail, and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail.

54. The mounting rail of claim 52, further comprising: a third continuous electrode along the length of said mounting bracket for transmitting data between different electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail, and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units mounted on the rail. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -45-55. The mounting rail of any of claim 52 - 54, further comprising: a flexible connector an end of the rail for connecting said electrodes to corresponding electrodes in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail.

56. The mounting rail of any of claim 52 - 54, further comprising: a terminal block bridging said electrodes at an end of the rail to prevent signal reflections, and to prevent human contact with said electrodes.

57. The mounting rail of claim 52, further comprising: an optical rail along said mounting bracket for transmitting optical data between the electronic shelf label units and between a server computer and the electronic shelf label units; and a slit along the length of said optical rail through which an optical data port for each electronic shelf label unit is inserted into said optical rail.

58. The mounting rail of claim 57, wherein said optical rail further comprises a baffle structure to prevent light leakage.

59. The mounting rail of claim 57, wherein walls of said optical rail comprise light-absorbing material to decrease glare and stray reflections.

60. The mounting rail of claim 57, wherein walls of said optical rail comprise a flexible material that seals said slit, to prevent light leakage from said optical rail via said slit.

61. The mounting rail of claim 57, wherein transmission paths through said optical rail are shorter than leakage paths, to prevent light leakage. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -46-62. The mounting rail of claim 57, further comprising: a terminal block at an end of said optical rail to prevent light leakage from said optical rail.

63. The mounting rail of claim 57, further comprising: a flexible connector for connecting said optical rail to a corresponding optical rail in a neighboring, non-aligned mounting rail. Atty. Docket No. PRICER-P004PCT -47-

Images