Systems and methods for locking a security device to a base

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to merchandise display systems and methods for displaying an article of merchandise. In one example, the system includes a security device configured to be secured to the article of merchandise. The system further includes a base having a lock mechanism configured to lock the security device to the base.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LOCKING A SECURITY DEVICE TO A BASECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 632,327, filed on April 10, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 714,269, filed on October 31, 2024, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to security systems and methods for articles of merchandise in a retail environment.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Retailers routinely display articles of merchandise, such as telephones, portable computers (e.g. notebooks, laptops, tablets, etc.), and the like for customers to evaluate before making a purchase. These articles of merchandise are continually being made smaller and lighter in weight due to advances in technology and materials. As a result, such merchandise is increasingly vulnerable and susceptible to theft. At the same time, the retail price and profit margin for such merchandise continues to decline. Accordingly, these articles of merchandise need to be secured by a security device that effectively and cost efficiently protects the merchandise from theft.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards merchandise display systems and methods. In one example embodiment, a merchandise security system for displaying an article of merchandise includes a security device comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof. The opposite end of the tether is configured to be secured to the article of merchandise. The merchandise security system also includes a base defining an opening configured to receive at least a portion of the first engagement member therein and a lock mechanism configured to lock the first engagement member to the base. In addition, the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated to cause the lock mechanism to lock the first engagement member to the base in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or to unlock the first engagement member from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the security device from the base.

[0005] In another embodiment, a merchandise security system includes a plurality of security devices each comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof. The opposite end of the tether configured to be secured to a respective article of merchandise. The merchandise security system further includes a base defining a plurality of openings each configured to receive at least a portion of a respective first engagement member therein and at least one lock mechanism configured to lock each of the first engagement members to the base. The at least one lock mechanism is configured to be actuated to cause the at least one lock mechanism to lock a respective first engagement member to thebase in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or to unlock each of the first engagement members from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the respective security device from the base.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a method for displaying an article of merchandise is provided. The method includes securing a security device to the article of merchandise, the security device comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof, the opposite end of the tether configured to be secured to the article of merchandise. The method also includes positioning the first engagement member at least partially within an opening defined in a base and actuating a lock mechanism to cause the lock mechanism to lock the first engagement member to the base in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or unlock the first engagement member from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the security device from the base.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a merchandise security system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the merchandise security system shown in FIG. 1.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the merchandise security system shown in FIG. 1.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a side view of a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a lock mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 5.

[0013] FIG. 7 is atop view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in a locked position.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a top view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in an unlocked position.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a partial top view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in a locked position.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a partial top view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in an unlocked position.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a top view of a lock mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a connector and the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 11.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a base according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a side view of the base shown in FIG. 14.

[0022] FIG. 16 is a top view of a lock mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 17 is a partial top view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 16.

[0024] FIG. 18 is a side view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 16.

[0025] FIG. 19 is another side view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 16.

[0026] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism shown in FIG. 16.

[0027] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a key according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a security system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the security system of FIG. 22 with hidden elements shown in dashed lines.

[0030] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the security system shown in FIG. 22.

[0031] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a tether having an engagement member at one end and a loop at an opposite end according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 26 is another cross-sectional view of the security system shown in FIG. 22 with the engagement member engaged with the base according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 27 shows examples of tethers attached to an article of merchandise and a connector for forming a loop according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 28 shows another embodiment of a security system in engagement with an article of merchandise.

[0035] FIG. 29 shows a fixture having a track or rail mounted thereto for selectively positioning one or more brackets thereon according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 30 shows a base configured to engage a bracket according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 31 shows another embodiment of a security system whereby the base is configured to engage a pair of engagement members according to another embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 32 shows an embodiment of a security system where the base is configured to be selectively positioned on a track or rail.

[0039] FIG. 33 shows an example embodiment where the security system includes an electronic key, a programming station, and a gang changer.

[0040] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a security system where a pair of engagement members are engaged with a base according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the security system shown in FIG. 34.

[0042] FIG. 36 is a partial perspective view of the security system shown in FIG. 34.

[0043] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a lock mechanism according to one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0044] One or more embodiments of a system for securing an article of merchandise are described below and shown. The article of merchandise M is typically a display model or an operational sample of merchandise, such as articles of clothing, handbags, accessories, portable telephones, smart phones, computers (e.g. notebooks, laptops, tablets, etc.), e-readers, media players, and the like, for a customer to examine before making a decision to purchase the article. The article of merchandise is typicallydisplayed in a manner that permits a prospective purchaser to evaluate the features of the merchandise, while protecting the merchandise from a potential thief.

[0045] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate embodiments of a merchandise security system 10 for securing an article of merchandise M from theft or unauthorized removal. The system generally includes a sensor 12, a tether 14, and a base 16. The sensor 12 is configured to be secured to the article of merchandise M, such as with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (not shown) and / or one or mechanical bracket arms 18. One end of the tether 14 may be electrically connected to the base 16, while the opposite end of the tether 14 includes a connector or jack 22. The sensor 12 may be electrically connected to the tether 14, such as with the connector 22 as shown in FIGS. 3-4. Thus, the connector 22 may be releasably secured to the sensor 12 to establish electrical communication therebetween, such as via a threaded engagement or a lock mechanism.

[0046] The base 16 is configured to removably support the sensor 12 thereon such that the sensor 12 and article of merchandise M may be removed from the base 16 for inspection and returned to the base 16. The base 16 may define an opening therethrough that allows the tether 14 to extend and retract relative to the base 16. In some cases, the base 16 may house a recoiler therein configured to retract the tether 14 into the base as well as allow extension of the cable from the base. The base 16 may define an opening configured to receive the tether 14 therethrough (see, e.g., FIG. 2). Moreover, the recoiler may be secured below a support surface (e.g., a counter, shelf, or the like). The recoiler may be electrically connected to a power source that is configured to provide power to the recoiler 18 and to the tether 14. In yet other embodiments, the sensor 12 and base 16 may be connected by a tether 14 that is external to the base 16 (e.g., with a coiled cord). In some embodiments, the sensor 12 is electrically connected to a power cable 26 that is configured to provide power to the article of merchandise M. Thus, the power cable 26 may facilitate use of the article of merchandise M on display and charging of the article’s battery. FIG. 3 shows that the power cable 26 may include a connector 28 that is configured to operably engage an input port on the article of merchandise M. The alarming circuitry may be configured to detect removal of the connector 28 in some embodiments for generating an audible and / or a visual alarm.

[0047] As discussed above, the sensor 12 may include alarming circuitry, processor, central processing unit, or the like that is configured to determine whether various security events have occurred for generating an audible and / or a visual alarm. The sensor 12 may also include an alarm (e.g., a piezoelectric device) that is configured to generate an audible alarm. Thus, the sensor 12 may be configured as “alarm -on-product” whereby the sensor is configured to alarm when attached to the article of merchandise M or detached from the article of merchandise. In some cases, the sensor 12 may include a visual indicator (e.g., an LED) for emitting a visual signal when the alarming circuitry is armed and / or alarming. Moreover, the sensor 12 and / or base 16 may include a transfer port 30 that is configured to communicate with a key 32 for arming and / or disarming the alarming circuitry (see, e.g., FIG. 3). In one embodiment, the transfer port 30 is configured to communicate wirelessly with a key32 in order to determine whether the key is authorized to arm and / or disarm the alarming circuitry. According to some embodiments, the key is similar to that described in U.S. Patent No. 7,737,845, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. According to one embodiment, the sensor 12 may include a pressure switch or the like that is configured to detect when the article of merchandise has been removed from the sensor. The alarming circuitry may be configured to detect the removal of the article M and generate and an audible and / or a visual alarm in response thereto. In some embodiments, the alarming circuitry may be also or alternatively be located in the base 16 or at another location. For instance, the sensor 12 and the alarming circuitry may be electrically connected with one another, such as via one or more conductors extending through the tether 14.

[0048] In other embodiments, the sensor 12 may not include any electrical components, such as alarming circuitry, processor, central processing unit, or the like. Thus, in some cases, the sensor 12 may be in the form of a security device that is purely mechanical and that is configured to be is secured to the article and removably supported on the base 16. Various embodiments of this type of configuration is described in further detail below.

[0049] Some embodiments of the present invention provide for the delivery of power to the article of merchandise M and / or the sensor 12 through a plurality of conductors in the tether 14. In some examples, the tether 14 includes only two conductors (e.g., a positive power line and a ground line). An input power source may be in electrical communication with the conductors for transmitting power through the tether 14 and to the sensor 12 and / or the article of merchandise M. In other embodiments, the delivery of power may occur via one or more electrical contacts 30 on the sensor 12 and the base 16. Thus, power may be configured to be transferred to the sensor 12 from the base 16 when the sensor is seated on the base.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sensor 12 may be configured to be engaged by the base 16 using a lock mechanism 50 (see, e.g., FIGS. 5-10). The lock mechanism 50 may be configured to lock and / or unlock in response to receiving electrical power, such as via an electronic key 32. In one example, the lock mechanism 50 is at least partially housed within the base 16. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism 50 may be configured to actuated using a mechanical key or the like. In the instance where an electronic key 32 is utilized, the base 16 may be configured to detect a number and / or sequence of activations of the key (e.g., key presses) to determine whether to arm or disarm the alarming circuitry and / or to lock or unlock the lock mechanism 50. For example, one activation of the key 32 may cause the alarming circuitry to disarm while a second activation of the key may cause both the alarming circuitry to disarm and the lock mechanism 50 to unlock.

[0051] In one embodiment, the sensor 12 or connector 22 includes at least one first engagement member 52, while the lock mechanism 50 includes at least one second engagement member 56. In the illustrated example shown in FIG. 4, the first engagement member 52 is a slot, recess, indentation or the like defined in the connector 22 that extends at least partially about the circumference of the connector. The slot may extend about the entire circumference of the connector 22 in someembodiments. The second engagement 56 member is configured to engage the first engagement member 52. The second engagement member 56 may be a biased member that is configured to be biased into engagement with the first engagement member 52. Alternatively, the second engagement member 56 may be biased towards a disengaged position. Thus, the second engagement member 56 may be a spring-biased member. FIGS. 7 and 9 show a top view of the lock mechanism 50 and that the second engagement member 56 may extend within an opening 57 defined through the lock mechanism in a locked position, while in FIGS. 8 and 10, the second engagement member is recessed within the lock mechanism in an unlocked position. The second engagement member 56 may be biased to automatically engage the first engagement member 52 when the sensor 12 is placed on the base 16. Thus, as the sensor 12 is moved to a seated position on the base 16, the second engagement member 56 may bias into engagement with the first engagement member 52. In other embodiments, the second engagement member 56 may be actuated into engagement with one another, such as under operation of an electronic key 32 or the like.

[0052] In some cases, the second engagement member 56 may engage the first engagement member 52 at a plurality of locations. In one embodiment, the second engagement member 56 engages the first engagement member 52 at a plurality of locations. For example, FIGS. 5-10 show three second engagement members 56.

[0053] When the second engagement member 56 is in engagement with the first engagement member 52, the sensor 12 is locked to the base 16. Thus, the sensor 12 may not be removed from the base 16 without disassembly or otherwise damaging the sensor and / or base. In the locked position, however, the sensor 12 may be rotatable about the base 16. Thus, the sensor 12 and associated article of merchandise M may rotate at least partially about the base 16 (e.g., at least about 90 degrees), and may even rotate freely about the base . As such, even when in a locked position, a consumer is able to interact with the article of merchandise M including moving the article of merchandise between different display orientations.

[0054] In one embodiment, the lock mechanism 50 is configured to move sequentially between locked and unlocked positions. In this regard, FIG. 6 shows that the lock mechanism 50 includes an actuation mechanism, such as a driver 60 and an actuator 62 (e.g., a cam mechanism). One end of a shape memory wire 66 is coupled to the driver 60, while an opposite end 68 of the shape memory wire is anchored to the lock mechanism 50. The driver 60 and cam mechanism 62 are configured to rotate relative to one another. For example, actuation of the shape memory wire 66 may result in rotation of the driver 60 (e.g., in a clockwise direction), which in turn rotates the cam mechanism 62 in the same direction (e.g., in a clockwise direction). Rotation of the cam mechanism 62 causes the engagement members 56 to move to either a locked position or an unlocked position. Following actuation of the driver 60, the driver is configured to rotate in an opposite direction (e.g., a counterclockwise direction) back to its initial position, and in some cases, the driver may be spring biased to its initial position. As shown in FIGS. 9-10, rotation of the cam mechanism 62 may cause the engagement members 56 toextend outwardly from the lock mechanism 50 and inwardly within the opening 57 to a locked position, or to retract the engagement members 56 within the lock mechanism to an unlocked position. Thus, the camming geometry of the cam mechanism 62 facilitates extension and retraction of the engagement members 56 as the cam mechanism is rotated. In some cases, the driver 60 and cam mechanism 62 may cooperate in a ratcheting manner wherein the driver is configured to advance the cam mechanism with each actuation of the cam mechanism. Although the actuator 62 has been described as a cam mechanism, it is understood that other mechanisms may be employed in other embodiments.

[0055] As noted above, an end of the shape memory wire 66 may be coupled to the driver 60, while the opposite end of the shape member wire is not required to also be coupled to the driver. The driver 60 may include one or more electrical contacts for facilitating an electrical connection with a printed circuit board (PCB) 70 of the lock mechanism 50. The electrical contacts may be electrical traces such that the driver 60 and PCB 70 maintain electrical contact as the driver is rotated relative to the PCB. In some cases, the driver 60 may comprise an electrically conductive material (e.g., copper), while the PCB 70 includes one or more electrical contacts or traces for establishing an electrical connection therebetween. Moreover, in one example, the end 68 of the shape memory wire 66 anchored to the lock mechanism 50 may be further coupled to a spring that allows the end of the shape memory wire to flex in response to impact forces applied to the base 16 and / or lock mechanism 50 to thereby prevent the end of the shape memory wire from breaking.

[0056] As discussed above, the lock mechanism 50 may include a shape memory wire 66 (e.g., a Nitinol wire) such that electrical power transferred from an electronic key 32 (or other power source) results in a change in shape of the shape memory material. Such a change in shape may cause a mechanical actuation of the lock mechanism 50 to thereby lock or unlock the lock mechanism. It is understood that any number of lock mechanisms 50 may be employed, including in conjunction with various forms of power transfer for actuating a lock mechanism (e.g., inductive, capacitive, etc.). For example, where a shape memory material is utilized, a change in shape of the shape memory material may cause mechanical actuation (e.g., linear and / or rotary movement) of the lock mechanism 50. The shape memory material may be operably engaged with a lock mechanism 50 in any number of configurations to facilitate such actuation. Moreover, the shape memory material may be any suitable material, such as a metal, a polymer, or a combination thereof, that is configured to change in shape (e.g., length, area, etc.) in response to a current or a change in temperature. In addition, other mechanisms may be utilized for actuating a lock mechanism, including mechanical, electrical, and / or chemical state changes. In other embodiments, the lock mechanism 50 may cooperate with a motor or solenoid for operating the lock mechanism.

[0057] FIGS. 11-12 show another embodiment of a lock mechanism 50’. In this embodiment, the second engagement members 56 are a plurality of spherical members that are configured to engage and disengage the first engagement member 52 of the connector 22. In this regard, there may be a plurality of second engagement members 56 disposed about the circumference of the opening 57. The secondengagement members 56 are configured to move radially inwardly into engagement with the first engagement member 52 in a locked position and to move radially outwardly out of engagement with the first engagement member in an unlocked position. Various actuation mechanisms or actuators may be employed to move the second engagement members 56 between locked and unlocked positions, such as a cam mechanism 72. For instance, FIG. 11 shows that the cam mechanism 72 may include a plurality of recesses 74 each configured to receive a respective second engagement member 56 in an unlocked position. When actuated to a locked position, the cam mechanism 72 is configured to move each of the second engagement members 56 into engagement with the first engagement member 52 and to thereby prevent the second engagement members from returning to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the cam mechanism 72 is configured to rotate to move the second engagement members to a locked or unlocked position.

[0058] The lock mechanism 50’ may be actuated using a variety of methods. For example, an actuator 60’ may be configured to move the cam mechanism 72 between locked and unlocked positions. In some cases, less than a full revolution of the actuator 60’ may be configured to actuate the second engagement members 56 (e.g., a quarter or half turn). In some cases, the actuator 60’ may include a fastener 76 coupled to a latch. Rotation of the fastener 76 is configured to rotate the latch, which in turn actuates the cam mechanism 72 to a locked or unlocked position. A key may be employed to actuate the actuator 60’, such as a mechanical, magnetic, or electronic key. In one embodiment, the actuator 60’ may be modular or interchangeable in that different actuator types may be used as desired. For instance, a mechanical actuator 60’ may be used as shown in the illustrated embodiment, however, an electrical actuator 60’ may be used in other embodiments by removing the mechanical actuator 60’ and coupling the electrical actuator to the lock mechanism 50’ . In some cases, a motor, solenoid, and / or shape memory material may be employed with the actuator 60’ to facilitate locking or unlocking the lock mechanism 50’.

[0059] FIGS. 13-20 illustrate another embodiment of a merchandise security system including a sensor 12, a base 16, and a lock mechanism 50” for locking the sensor to the base. In this embodiment, a plurality of engagement members 56 are retained by or otherwise seated on a retaining member 80. In this example, the engagement members 56 are spherical in shape and may be ball bearings. Four engagement members 56 are spaced from one another at 90 degree locations about the circumference of the retaining member 80, although any number of engagement members 56 may be employed. However, engagement members 56 that engage the sensor 14 about the circumference of the engagement member 52 create a more secure connection than if only one engagement member 56 is used or if the engagement members 56 do not uniformly or symmetrically engage the engagement member 52. A camming mechanism 72 or like mechanism is configured to move the engagement members 56 into or out of engagement with the engagement member 52 of the sensor 12. Thus, when the camming mechanism 72 is moved in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the engagement members 56 may be moved to a locked or unlocked position. In some cases, the engagement members56 may be configured to move radially into engagement with the engagement member 52 and / or radially out of engagement.

[0060] The base 16 may include one or more magnets 34 or magnetic material, and the sensor 12 may include one or more magnets or magnetic material for releasably holding the sensor on the base. The magnets 34 may aid in aligning the item of merchandise in a desired display orientation when the sensor 12 is seated on the base 16. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the base 16 may include magnets 36 used to facilitate disengagement of the engagement members 56 from the engagement member 52. In this regard, in the locked position, the engagement members 56 cannot be moved to the unlocked position due to the configuration of the camming mechanism 72. For example, in the locked position, a portion of the camming mechanism 72 may be positioned between the engagement members 56 and the magnets 36. However, when the camming mechanism 72 is moved to the unlocked position, the magnets 36 are magnetically attracted to the engagement members 56 thereby forcing or at least holding the engagement members 56 out of engagement with the engagement member 52.

[0061] An actuator 60” may be used to move the camming mechanism 72 between locked and unlocked positions. In one embodiment, the actuator 60” may include a yoke mechanism 82, a shuttle 84, and a key receptacle 86. The yoke 82 and the shuttle 84 may be in engagement with one another at all times, while the shuttle is configured to engage and disengage the key receptacle 86, such as via a keyway-type of engagement. In some cases, the shuttle 84 is a magnetic shuttle (e.g., with a magnet 85) that is configured to be magnetically attracted to a key, such as in the form of a magnetic key 90 (see, e.g., FIG. 21). The magnetic key 90 may be configured to engage the key receptacle 86 and thereby magnetically attract and move the shuttle 84 into engagement with the key receptacle. Both the magnetic key 90 and the key receptacle 86 may have a matching shape (e.g., square or rectangular) for engaging one another (see, e.g., FIGS. 18-19). In some instances, the magnetic key 90 may move the shuttle 84 into a mating mechanical engagement with the key receptacle 86 (e.g., the shuttle may have a square or rectangular shaped portion that is received within a square or rectangular opening defined in the key receptacle). In this way, rotation of the magnetic key 90 while engaged with the key receptacle 86 also causes the yoke 82 to rotate. As shown in FIG. 18, the yoke 82 may be configured to rotate to engage a portion of the camming mechanism 72 for movement between the locked and unlocked positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the camming mechanism 72 includes a pin 88 that is configured to be engaged by the yoke 82 as the yoke is rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. Less than a full rotation of the key receptacle 86 may be needed to move between the locked and unlocked positions. For example, a partial turn of 90 degrees or less may result in movement between the locked and unlocked positions. In some cases, minimal engagement or movement is needed between the yoke 82 and the camming mechanism 72 to move between the locked and unlocked positions, such as less than 45 degrees of rotation of the yoke in either a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation (e.g., 20-25 degrees or about 22.5 degrees).

[0062] Due to the fact that the yoke 82 and the shuttle 84 are not in engagement with the keyreceptacle 86 when the magnetic key 90 is not present or a key without a magnet is used, rotation of the key receptacle alone will not cause the yoke to rotate since the shuttle and the key receptacle are not engaged with one another. Rather, a magnetic key 90 is required in order to facilitate the engagement between the shuttle 84 and the key receptacle 86 and thereby engagement with the yoke 82. In order to prevent an unauthorized user from attempting to defeat the lock mechanism 50”, such as by back driving the camming mechanism 72, the shuttle 84 may be configured to engage a portion of the retaining member 80, which is fixed, when the magnetic key 90 is not engaged with the key receptacle 86 (see, e.g., FIG. 19). In some cases, the shuttle 84 may be biased (e.g., with a spring) towards engagement with the retaining member 80 when the magnetic key 90 is not engaged with the key receptacle 86. The illustrated example shows that the shuttle 82 may have a portion that is shaped (e.g., square or rectangular) to mate with and engage a corresponding shaped portion of the retaining member 80 to thereby prevent rotation of the yoke 82 and the camming mechanism 72.

[0063] FIG. 22 shows another embodiment of a security system 100. In this embodiment, a security device 102 includes a tether 104 and an engagement member 105 at the end of the tether that is configured to be releasably engaged by a base 106. The base 106 may include a lock mechanism according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein that is configured to lock the security device 102 to the base, such as lock mechanism 50’, to secure the article of merchandise M relative to the base. Thus, when the lock mechanism is in a locked position, the consumer is unable to move the article of merchandise M relative to the base 106 beyond the length of the tether 104. When the lock mechanism is unlocked, a consumer or retail associate is able to remove the security device 102 from the base 106 and to inspect the article. And when the consumer is finished inspecting the article of merchandise M, the consumer or retail associate can place the engagement member 105 within the opening 57 to enable the lock mechanism to lock the security device.

[0064] In one example, the base 106 is configured to at least partially receive the engagement member 105 within an opening 57 defined in the base for locking the engagement member therein. For instance, FIGS. 23-24 show the engagement member 105 received entirely within the opening 57 such that the engagement member is recessed below the top surface of the base 106 when in a locked position. It is understood that the illustrated base 106 is not intended to be limiting, as the base may be configured to receive one or more engagement members 105 therein (see, e.g., FIG. 31). In some cases, the engagement member 105 is a ball or spherical in shape, although other shapes and configurations may be employed.

[0065] Moreover, FIGS. 29, 30, and 32 show that the base 106 may be adapted for various other scenarios, such as a base that is configured to be adjusted along a track, rail, or the like 112 to any desired position. The base 106 may be configured to be mounted to a fixture 200 (e.g., a cabinet, shelf, or the like) using a variety of techniques. For instance, FIGS. 29 and 30 show that the base 106 may be mounted to a bracket 114 that is attached to the fixture 200. The bracket 114 could be attached to the fixture using an adhesive and / or one or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the base 106 may beconfigured to be locked and unlocked from the bracket 114 using a lock mechanism that is actuatable by a key 32 or a mobile device 150. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 30, the base 106 may include a pin, post, or the like 122 configured to engage an opening 125 or engagement member of the bracket 114, and in some cases, the pin or post is configured to engage the bracket when the engagement member 105 is locked to the base 106 by the lock mechanism 50’.

[0066] In additional embodiments, FIGS. 34-37 illustrate another example of a security device 100’. In this embodiment, the security system 100’ includes a pair of security devices 102 that are configured to be engaged by the base 106. Each security device 102 includes an engagement member 105 that is configured to be received by and locked to the base 106. In this example, a lock mechanism 50” includes a motor 118 that is configured to actuate a second engagement member 56 into engagement with the engagement member 105. The engagement member 105 may define a slot 128 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the second engagement member 56 in the locked position for locking the security device 102 to the base 106. Thus, the motor 118 may be configured to move the second engagement member 56 into and out of engagement with the engagement member 105. In this particular instance, the second engagement member 56 is configured to move linearly into and out of engagement with the engagement member 105 in response to rotary movement of the motor 118. To accommodate a pair of security devices 102, the security system 100’ may include a pair of lock mechanisms 50” for engaging respective engagement members 105. The lock mechanisms 50” may be configured to operate independently from one another, e.g., in response to detecting a respective engagement member 105. The security system 100’ may include one or more power sources 120 (e.g., batteries) for operating each of the security devices 102. It is understood that the security system 100’ may incorporate one or more features of the security system 100’ disclosed herein, such as for example, the ability to automatically lock the lock mechanism 50”, the ability to operate in conjunction with a key 32 and / or mobile device 150, etc.

[0067] The tether 104 may be similar to the aforementioned embodiments or may be a mechanical cable, wire, cord, or the like. The tether 104 may be single or multi-stranded and may provide cut resistance in some cases. The tether 104 may be generally flexible or bendable. As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the tether 104 may further include a loop 108, lasso, or other engagement member at an end of the tether opposite the engagement member 105. The loop 108 may be formed using a variety of techniques, such as a crimp 126 or like device for securing an end of the tether 104, or could be integrally formed with the tether 104 (see, e.g., FIG. 22). The loop 108 may be configured to receive the engagement member 105 therethrough for facilitating engagement with the article of merchandise M (e.g., via a lasso engagement), such as a handbag (see, e.g., FIG. 27). For instance, the loop 108 may be looped or otherwise secured to a portion of the article of merchandise M (e.g., a handle of the article). In other instances, the loop 108 may be formed using a connector 110 such that an end of the tether is configured to be looped through the article of merchandise and to be received by the connector. In this way, the loop 108 may be adjustable in length depending on the location where theconnector 110 is attached to the tether. The connector 110 may take many different forms. As shown in FIG. 27, the connector 110 may be a two-piece member that is configured to engage the tether 104 such as in a snap fit or could be secured together with a fastener or the like. One end of the tether 104 is configured to be looped about the connector 110 to create a loop 108 or lasso.

[0068] In use, the security device 100, 100’ may be configured to be operated using a key 32 as described above (see e.g., FIG. 33 where a key 32, programming station 33, and gang charger 35 are illustrated for programming and charging such keys). In some embodiments, a mobile device 150 (e.g., cellular phone) may be configured to operate the security device 100, 100’ (see, e.g., FIG. 28) using various types of communication, such as NFC, Bluetooth, IR, cellular, Wi-fi, etc. Thus, in some cases, a mobile device 150 may be configured to perform the functionality of the key 32 for operating the security device 100, 100’, such as authenticating the user and sending a command to unlock the lock mechanism 50’.

[0069] In one example, the lock mechanism 50’, 50” is configured to automatically lock when the engagement member 105 is received within the opening 57 of the base 106. For instance, the base 106 may include a sensor 116 within the opening 57 that is configured to detect the engagement member 105 and actuate the lock mechanism 50’, 50” to automatically actuate the lock in response to such detection. The sensor 116 may be a switch in some cases, such as a pressure or plunger type of switch, configured to be actuated in response to engagement (directly or indirectly) with the engagement member 105. FIG. 35 shows another example of a sensor 116’ that is configured to be engaged by the engagement member 105 when in the opening 57 and to move in response to such engagement (e.g., via camming engagement). The sensor 116’ may be spring -loaded in some cases for biasing towards an engaged position such that engagement with engagement member 105 forces the switch to move for actuating a switch. To facilitate placement of the engagement member 105 within the opening 57, the engagement member 105 and base 106 may include magnetically attractable material (e.g., a magnet 124) for attracting the engagement member within the opening 57 of the base. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism 50’, 50” may cooperate with a motor 118 or solenoid for operating the lock mechanism. In addition, the base 106 may include various other electrical components, such as a power source 120 and circuitry (e.g., one or more printed circuit boards 119) for facilitating communication with a key 32 and / or mobile device 150 as well as communicating with the lock mechanism 50’, 50”, sensor 116, motor 118, etc.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the lock mechanisms described herein are similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,236,528, entitled Systems and Methods for Locking a Sensor to a Base, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In addition, various access control techniques may be employed in order to operate the various security devices described herein, such as that disclosed in U.S. Publ. No. 2022 / 0262181, entitled Merchandise Display Security Systems and Methods, and U.S. Publ. No. 2022 / 0309886, entitled Merchandise Display Security Systems and Methods, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0071] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of merchandise security systems and methods for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A merchandise display system for displaying an article of merchandise comprising: a security device comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof, the opposite end of the tether configured to be secured to the article of merchandise; a base defining an opening configured to receive at least a portion of the first engagement member therein; and a lock mechanism configured to lock the first engagement member to the base, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated to cause the lock mechanism to lock the first engagement member to the base in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or to unlock the first engagement member from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the security device from the base.

2. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated in response to receiving a wireless signal.

3. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism comprises a motor for actuating the lock mechanism.

4. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the opposite end of the tether comprises a connector for releasably engaging the article of merchandise.

5. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the opposite end of the tether comprises a loop for releasably engaging the article of merchandise.

6. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated with a mobile device.

7. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated with an electronic key.

8. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be automatically actuated in response to the first engagement member being received within the opening.

9. The merchandise display system of Claim 8, wherein the base further comprises a sensor for detecting the first engagement member within the opening, and wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be actuated in response to the sensor detecting the first engagement member.

10. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism is positioned within the base.

11. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, further comprising an electronic key configured to actuate the lock mechanism.

12. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism comprises at least one second engagement member configured to releasably engage the first engagement member, and wherein actuation of the lock mechanism is configured to cause the at least one second engagementmember to move either into engagement with the first engagement member for locking the security device on the base in the locked position or out of engagement with the first engagement member in the unlocked position.

13. The merchandise display system of Claim 12, wherein the first engagement member comprises a slot.

14. The merchandise display system of Claim 12, wherein the at least one second engagement member is configured to move radially inward into engagement with the first engagement member or radially outward out of engagement with the first engagement member.

15. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the base comprises at least one magnet configured to magnetically attract the first engagement member in the opening.

16. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism extends circumferentially about the opening.

17. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, wherein the lock mechanism extends about an axis of the opening and is configured to move perpendicular to the axis of the opening.

18. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, further comprising a plurality of security devices, and wherein the base defines a plurality of openings each configured to receive at least a portion of a respective first engagement member therein.

19. The merchandise display system of Claim 1, further comprising any combination of features recited by any of Claims 1-18.

20. A merchandise display system for displaying an article of merchandise comprising: a plurality of security devices each comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof, the opposite end of the tether configured to be secured to a respective article of merchandise; a base defining a plurality of openings each configured to receive at least a portion of a respective first engagement member therein; and at least one lock mechanism configured to lock each of the first engagement members to the base, wherein the at least one lock mechanism is configured to be actuated to cause the at least one lock mechanism to lock a respective first engagement member to the base in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or to unlock each of the first engagement members from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the respective security device from the base.

21. A method for displaying an article of merchandise comprising: securing a security device to the article of merchandise, the security device comprising a tether and a first engagement member at an end thereof, the opposite end of the tether configured to be secured to the article of merchandise; positioning the first engagement member at least partially within an opening defined in a base; andactuating a lock mechanism to cause the lock mechanism to lock the first engagement member to the base in a locked position to thereby secure the security device to the base or unlock the first engagement member from the base in an unlocked position to thereby allow removal of the security device from the base.

22. The method of Claim 21 , wherein actuating comprising unlocking the first engagement member via actuation of an electronic key.

23. The method of Claim 21 , wherein actuating comprising unlocking the first engagement member via actuation of a mobile device.

24. The method of Claim 21, further comprising unlocking the first engagement from the base such that the first engagement member is removable from the base.

25. The method of Claim 21, wherein actuating comprising actuating the lock mechanism in response to receiving a wireless signal.

26. The method of Claim 21, wherein actuating comprises automatically actuating the lock mechanism in response to positioning the first engagement member within the opening.

27. A device, system, and / or method comprising any combination of features disclosed or claimed herein.

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