Modular retail security device with recoiling tether

Abstract

A system includes a first recoiler module including a first housing, a first recoiler disposed within the first housing, and a first tether including a first end coupled to the first recoiler and a second end extending from the first housing. The system further includes a second recoiler module including a second housing coupled to the first housing of the first recoiler module, a second recoiler disposed within the second housing, and a second tether including a third end coupled to the second recoiler and a fourth end extending from the second housing. The system further includes an alarm module selectively coupled to the second housing of the second recoiler module and in communication with the first recoiler and the second recoiler and a tether module selectively attached to at least one of the first tether or the second tether.

Description

Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356MODULAR RETAIL SECURITY DEVICE WITH RECOILING TETHERFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a modular retail security device with a recoiling tether.BACKGROUND

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] Retail environments are in a constant state of evolution, striving to balance the need for security with the desire to provide a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience for customers. Traditional methods of securing retail articles often involve tethering products with cables or chains, which, while effective, can be cumbersome and detract from the overall customer experience. These methods can also impose additional burdens on retail associates, who must manage and maintain the security systems. As retail environments continue to innovate, there is a growing demand for more sophisticated solutions that address these challenges.

[0004] Existing tether systems, though functional, often lack the flexibility required to accommodate the diverse range of products found in modern retail settings. Retailers offer a wide variety of items, each with unique sizes and shapes, necessitating a tethering system that can be easily installed and adjusted to fit different products. The rigidity of current systems can lead to inefficiencies and increased labor costs, as associates spend valuable time modifying or replacing tethers to suit specific items.

[0005] Moreover, customer experience is paramount in retail environments, and any security system must allow customers to interact with products freely. Traditional tethering methods can obstruct the customer's ability to view and handle items, potentially impacting purchasing decisions. Therefore, there is a significant need for a tethering system that not only secures products effectively but also enhances the customer's ability to engage with them.SUMMARY

[0006] An aspect of the disclosure provides a modular retail security system. The system includes a first recoiler module including a first housing, a first recoiler disposed within the first161335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356housing, and a first tether including a first end coupled to the first recoiler and a second end extending from the first housing. The system further includes a second recoiler module including a second housing coupled to the first housing of the first recoiler module, a second recoiler disposed within the second housing, and a second tether including a third end coupled to the second recoiler and a fourth end extending from the second housing. The system further includes an alarm module selectively coupled to the second housing of the second recoiler module and in communication with the first recoiler and the second recoiler and a tether module selectively attached to at least one of the first tether or the second tether.

[0007] Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the first housing of the first recoiler module includes a first mounting socket and the second housing of the second recoiler module is engaged with the first mounting socket. In some examples, the second housing of the second recoiler module includes a second mounting socket configured the same as the first mounting socket. In some configurations, the alarm module is in electronic communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler. In some implementations, the alarm module is in mechanical communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler. In some examples, the system includes a recoiler coupler system rotationally coupling the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

[0008] In some examples, the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module includes a spool rotationally mounted within the housing and an annular conductor disposed on the spool, and the alarm module includes a conductive spring element in contact with the annular conductor through the housing of the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module. In some configurations, rotation of the annular conductor relative to the conductive spring element generates a rotation signal.In some examples, the system includes a control system configured to receive the rotation signal and to generate a notification based on the rotation signal.

[0009] In some examples, the tether module is configured to receive a first portion of the at least one of the first tether or the second tether and a second portion of the at least one of the first tether or the second tether to define a tether loop.

[0010] Another aspect of the disclosure includes a modular retail security system. The system includes a first recoiler module including a first housing, a first recoiler disposed within the first housing, and a first tether including a first end coupled to the first recoiler and a second end261335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356extending from the first housing. The system further includes a second recoiler module including a second housing coupled to the first housing of the first recoiler module, a second recoiler disposed within the second housing, and a second tether including a third end coupled to the second recoiler and a fourth end extending from the second housing. The system further includes a transmission module rotationally coupling the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

[0011] Aspects of the disclosure include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the first housing of the first recoiler module includes a first mounting socket and the second housing of the second recoiler is engaged with the first mounting socket. In some configurations, the second housing of the second recoiler module includes a second mounting socket configured the same as the first mounting socket.

[0012] In some examples, the system includes an alarm module selectively coupled to the second housing of the second recoiler module and in communication with the first recoiler and the second recoiler. In some implementations, the alarm module is in electronic communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler. In some configurations, the alarm module is in mechanical communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

[0013] In some configurations, the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module includes a spool rotationally mounted within the housing and an annular conductor disposed on the spool, and the alarm module includes a conductive spring element in contact with the annular conductor through the housing of the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module. In some examples, rotation of the annular conductor relative to the conductive spring element generates a rotation signal. In some examples, the system includes a control system configured to receive the rotation signal and to generate a notification based on the rotation signal.

[0014] In some examples the system includes, a tether module selectively attached to the second end of at least one of the first tether or the second tether.DRAWINGS

[0015] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.361335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view an example of a modular retail security device with a recoiling tether according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a recoiler module of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0022] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the recoiler module of FIG. 6.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the recoiler module of FIG. 6.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the recoiler module of FIG. 6.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of the recoiler module of FIG. 6.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the recoiler module of FIG. 6.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alarm module of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0028] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0029] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0030] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0031] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0032] FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0033] FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0034] FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0035] FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the alarm module of FIG. 12.

[0036] FIG. 21 shows a method of disassembling the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0037] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0038] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a conductor board of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1, showing the modular retail security device in an unlocked position.

[0040] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 1, showing the modular retail security device in a locked position.461335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0041] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a tether module associated with the modular retail security device of FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the tether module of FIG. 26.

[0043] FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of the tether module of FIG. 26.

[0044] FIG. 29 is a side elevation view of the tether module of FIG. 26.

[0045] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the tether module of FIG. 26.

[0046] FIG. 31 is a perspective view another example of a modular retail security device with a recoiling tether according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0048] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a base recoiler module of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0049] FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the base recoiler module of FIG. 33.

[0050] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an intermediate recoiler module of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0051] FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view of the intermediate recoiler module of FIG. 35.

[0052] FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of a conductor board of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0053] FIG. 38 is a bottom perspective view of a conductor board of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0054] FIG. 39 is a top perspective view of a transmission element of the modular retail security device of FIG. 31.

[0055] FIG. 40 is a bottom perspective view of a transmission element of the modular retail security device of FIG. 35.

[0056] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent561335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and the example configurations should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0058] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1-30, an example of a retail security system 10 according to the principles of the present disclosure is provided. As discussed in greater detail below, the retail security system 10 is configured as a modular system including a recoiler module 100, an alarm module 200 that is releasably attached to the recoiler module 100, and a tether module 300 configured to attach to a cable or tether 132 of the recoiler module 100 to secure a retail article. FIG. 2 provides an exploded view of the portion of the retail security system 10 including the recoiler module 100 and the alarm module 200, which may be collectively referred to as a base module 12. In other words, although not illustrated together, the retail security system 10 may be described as including the base module 12 (FIGS. 1-25) and the tether module 300 (FIGS. 26-30).

[0060] While the retail security system 10 is illustrated as including the recoiler module 100, the alarm module 200, and the tether module 300, the modularity of the retail security system 10 allows the retail security system 10 to be easily reconfigured to accommodate different retail environments and / or products. For example, the alarm module 200 is releasably coupled with the recoiler module 100, allowing the alarm module 200 to be easily interchanged with a different alarm module 200 having the same mounting interface. This may be useful when a retailer desires to provide an alarm module 200 with different sound or alarm properties using the same recoiler module 100. Similarly, different tether modules 300 may be connected to the recoiler module 100 to accommodate different sizes or shapes of products.

[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 6-11, an overview of the recoiler module 100 and method for assembly is provided. As shown, the recoiler module 100 includes a recoiler module housing 102 configured to enclose the operational components of the recoiler module 100. The recoiler module housing 102 includes a recoiler housing shell 104 forming an upper portion of the recoiler module housing 102 and a recoiler housing plate 106 enclosing a lower portion of the recoiler module housing 102. As shown, the recoiler housing shell 104 includes a plurality of sidewalls 108a-108d enclosing a perimeter of the recoiler housing shell 104 and a recoiler housing top wall 110661335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356extending between the recoiler housing sidewalls 108a-108d to enclose a top side of the recoiler housing shell 104, while a bottom side of the recoiler housing shell 104 includes an opening into a recoiler housing cavity 112 defined by bottom edges of the respective recoiler housing sidewalls 108a- 108b. Optionally, the recoiler module housing 102 may include an adhesive material 149 (FIG. 2) for securing the housing plate 106 to a mounting surface.

[0062] With continued reference to FIG. 6, the recoiler housing shell 104 further includes a peripheral lip 114 extending from and at least partially surrounding the recoiler housing top wall 110. In the illustrated example, the peripheral lip 114 extends from the recoiler housing top wall 110 on three sides corresponding to the second sidewall 108b, third sidewall 108c, and fourth sidewall 108d, thereby defining a mounting socket 116 configured to receive and secure the alarm module 200 adjacent to the recoiler housing top wall 110. Opposite ends of the peripheral lip 114 terminate adjacent to the first sidewall 108a along each of the second sidewall 108b and the fourth sidewall 108d to further define a peripheral opening 118 of the mounting socket 116 extending along the first sidewall 108a. As discussed in greater detail below, the peripheral opening 118 provides an entry way for sliding the alarm module 200 into engagement with the mounting socket 116 of the recoiler module 100 to form the base module 12. Referring still to FIG. 6, the peripheral lip 114 may include one or more mounting tabs 120 extending inwardly therefrom, which are configured to engage corresponding slots or channels 240, 246 of the alarm module 200 when the alarm module 200 is inserted into the mounting socket 116. In the illustrated example, each of the mounting tabs 120 is spaced apart from the recoiler housing top wall 110 to define a gap 119 for receiving a corresponding portion of the alarm module 200. While the illustrated example shows the mounting tabs 120 as being formed along a distal edge of the peripheral lip 114, in other examples the mounting tabs 120 may be disposed at an intermediate portion of the peripheral lip 114 (e.g., spaced between the distal edge and the recoiler housing top wall 110) or the mounting tabs 120 may be provided as independent features without the peripheral lip 114 (e.g., extending directly from the recoiler housing top wall 110).

[0063] Referring still to FIG. 6, the recoiler housing shell 104 includes a guide channel 121 and an upper shell opening 122. The guide channel 121 is formed as an elongate slot extending from a first end at the first sidewall 108a to a terminal end in an intermediate portion of the recoiler housing top wall 110. The upper shell opening 122 is disposed adjacent to the second end of the guide channel 121 and provides an opening into the recoiler housing cavity 112. As discussed761335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356below, the upper shell opening 122 is configured to receive a conductive element 282 of the alarm module 200 (FIG. 21) when the base module 12 is assembled. The recoiler housing top wall 110 further includes a module locking pin receptacle 123 configured to receive a module locking pin 254 of the alarm module 200 when the alarm module 200 is engaged with the mounting socket 116.

[0064] As best shown in FIG. 7, the recoiler housing shell 104 further includes a tether opening 124 formed in one of the sidewalls 108a-108d. In the illustrated example, the tether opening 124 is formed as a slot in the second sidewall 108b, which extends from an opening at a bottom edge of the second sidewall 108b. By forming the tether opening 124 as an open-ended slot, the tether can be more easily inserted into the tether opening 124 compared to enclosed apertures (e.g., through holes), which may require the tether to be routed or “fished” through the sidewall 108b of the recoiler housing shell 104 prior to assembly.

[0065] The recoiler housing plate 106 of the recoiler module housing 102 is configured to mate with the recoiler housing shell 104 to enclose the recoiler housing cavity 112. As shown, the recoiler housing plate 106 is formed as a flat plate (i.e., no sidewalls) with a plurality of alignment features for mating with the recoiler housing shell 104. The recoiler housing plate 106 is secured to the sidewalls 108a-108d using ultrasonic welding. However, the recoiler housing plate 106 may be secured using adhesives or mechanical fasteners. As shown in FIG. 7, the recoiler housing plate 106 includes a tether support 126 extending from a top side and configured to mate with the tether opening 124 to enclose and define a tether guide 128 (FIG. 6). Optionally, the tether guide 128 can include a tether guide bushing 129 arranged in an opening of the tether guide 128. The tether guide bushing 129 can be configured to allow the tether 132 to freely move through the tether guide 128 without interruption.

[0066] Referring still to FIG. 7, the recoiler module 100 includes an internal recoiling system 130 including the tether 132 and a recoiler 134 configured to wind and unwind the tether 132. The recoiler 134 includes a spool 136 rotatably fixed within the recoiler module 100 via an axle shaft 137 (FIG. 2). The spool 136 includes an arbor 138 mounted to the axle shaft 137 and a pair of annular flanges 140 extending from opposite sides of the arbor 138. The arbor 138 is cylindrical in shape and defines an annular groove 142, which receives a coil spring 144. The coil spring 144 includes a first end that attaches to the recoiler module housing 102 and a second end that attaches to the spool 136 to provide a rotational biasing force of the spool 136. Thus, the coil spring 144861335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356biases the spool 136 in a “winding” direction to retract the tether 132 into the recoiler module housing 102 through the tether guide 128. Optionally, the spool 136 may include a coil cover 146 configured to attach to the arbor 138 to conceal the coil spring 144 within the annular groove 142.

[0067] With continued reference to FIG. 7, the recoiler 134 further includes an annular conductor board 148 attached to an opposite side of the spool 136 from the coil spring 144. The annular conductor board 148 may be a printed circuit board including a pair of conductor races 151 (FIG. 23). When assembled, the annular conductor board 148 is received within the annular groove 142 of the arbor 138 and is exposed between the flange 140 and an axle of the spool 136, whereby the annular conductor board 148 can be contacted through the upper shell opening 122 by the corresponding conductive element 282 of the alarm module 200 when the base module 12 is assembled. The annular conductor board 148 may be flush with the flange 140 of the spool 136.

[0068] The tether 132 includes a first or proximal end 150 attached to the annular conductor board 148 by soldering or other conductive attachment methods. The tether 132 further includes a second or distal end 152 that is routed from the annular conductor board 148 on the exterior of the spool 136 and through a flange aperture 154 formed through the flange 140 of the spool 136 adjacent to the annular conductor board 148. Thus, the distal end 152 of the tether 132 is routed between the flanges 140, around the arbor 138, and out through the tether guide 128 of the recoiler module housing 102. An unwinding or pulling force may be applied to the tether 132 to overcome the biasing force of the coil spring 144 and to unwind the tether 132 from the spool 136. Conversely, when the unwinding or pulling force is released or less than a biasing force of the coil spring 144, the coil spring 144 causes the spool 136 to rotate in an opposite winding direction to retract the tether 132 into the recoiler module housing 102.

[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 12-20, the alarm module 200 and method of assembly are provided in detail. As shown in FIGS. 12-15, the alarm module 200 includes an alarm module housing 202 having an alarm housing cover 204 and an alarm housing base 206. As shown, the alarm housing cover 204 includes a plurality of sidewalls 208a-208d enclosing a perimeter of the alarm housing cover 204 and an alarm cover top wall 210 extending between the alarm housing sidewalls 208a-208d to enclose a top side of the alarm housing cover 204, while a bottom side of the alarm housing cover 204 includes an opening into an alarm housing cavity 212 defined by bottom edges of the respective alarm housing sidewalls 208a-208b.961335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 12-16, the alarm housing cover 204 includes an elongate actuator guide track 214 formed along the alarm cover top wall 210, which slidably receives a locking actuator 216 within the alarm housing cover 204. In the illustrated example, the actuator guide track 214 is formed as an elongate channel extending along the alarm cover top wall 210 through an actuator guide track opening 218 in the first sidewall 208a of the alarm housing cover 204. While the illustrated example shows the actuator guide track 214 being formed as projecting from the alarm cover top wall 210, the actuator guide track 214 may be fully recessed within the alarm housing cover 204 (i.e., below the alarm cover top wall 210).

[0071] The alarm cover top wall 210 further includes an actuator lock guide 220 disposed adjacent to the end of the actuator guide track 214. The actuator lock guide 220 includes a cylindrical bore 221 having a central axis A221 aligned with and extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis A214 of the actuator guide track 214. A bottom wall 222 of the actuator lock guide 220 includes a locking pin aperture 224 (FIG. 15) extending between the actuator lock guide 220 and the alarm housing cavity 212.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 15, 24 and 25, an actuator lock 226 is slidably received within the actuator lock guide 220 and is operable to move between a locked position (FIG. 25) against the bottom wall 222 and an unlocked position (FIG. 24) spaced apart from the bottom wall 222. The actuator lock 226 includes an actuator locking pin 228 configured to extend through the locking pin aperture 224 when the actuator lock 226 is moved to the locked position and to retract into the locking pin aperture 224 when the actuator lock 226 is moved to the unlocked position. Optionally, the actuator lock guide 220 includes an actuator lock retainer 230 attached adjacent to an opening of the actuator lock guide 220. During assembly, the actuator lock 226 is inserted within the bore 221 of the actuator lock guide 220 and the actuator lock retainer 230 is attached at or around the opening to capture the actuator lock 226 within the actuator lock guide 220. Thus, the actuator lock 226 is retained within the actuator lock guide 220 by the actuator lock retainer 230 when the actuator lock 226 moves to the unlocked position.

[0073] With reference to FIGS. 15, 24, and 25, the alarm housing base 206 includes a base plate 232 including a bottom side 234, a top side 236 formed on an opposite side from the bottom side 234, and a plurality of peripheral walls 238a-238d extending between the bottom side 234 and the top side 236. As discussed herein, the peripheral walls 238a-238d may be referred to as including a pair of peripheral end walls 238a, 238c and a pair of peripheral sidewalls 238b, 238d extending1061335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356between the peripheral end walls 238a, 238c. The peripheral sidewalls 238b, 238d each include a peripheral mounting channel 240 extending from an opening 242 at the second peripheral end wall 238c to a terminal end 244 adjacent to the first peripheral end wall 238a. The peripheral mounting channels 240 are each configured to slidably receive the corresponding mounting tabs 120 formed on the sides of the peripheral lip 114 of the recoiler module housing 102. Additionally, the second peripheral end wall 238 c may include one or more mounting notches 246 (FIG. 16) configured to receive the mounting tabs 120 formed on the peripheral lip 114 along the sidewall 108c of the recoiler housing shell 104 when the alarm module 200 is received within the mounting socket 116.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 16, the alarm housing base 206 further includes a module lock guide 248 extending from the top side 236 of the base plate 232. The module lock guide 248 includes a peripheral wall extending from the top side 236 of the base plate 232 and defining a module lock bore having a central axis A248 extending transverse to the central axis A214 of the actuator guide track 214. The central axis A248 of the module lock guide 248 is aligned with the central axis A214 of the actuator guide track 214 such that the module lock guide 248 is at least partially aligned with the actuator guide track 214. While the peripheral wall of the illustrated example defines a cylindrical bore, other shapes of bores (e.g., square, keyed) may be used.

[0075] A module lock 250 is slidably received within the module lock guide 248 and is operable to move between an unlocked configuration (FIG. 24) to permit movement of the alarm module 200 relative to the recoiler module 100 and a locked configuration (FIG. 25) to prevent movement of the alarm module 200 relative to the recoiler module 100. The module lock 250 includes a central piston 252 configured to provide a sliding interface within the bore of the module lock guide 248. As shown in FIG. 16, the module lock 250 further includes a module locking pin 254 extending from a bottom end of the piston 252, which is configured to extend and retract through a corresponding module locking pin aperture 256 (FIG. 15) formed in the base plate 232. The module lock 250 further includes a cam member 258 extending from a top end of the piston 252. As discussed in greater detail below, a distal end 260 of the cam member 258 is configured to interface with the locking actuator 216 to selectively bias the module lock 250 to the locked configuration when the locking actuator 216 is moved in a first locking direction DI. In at least one configuration, the distal end 260 of the cam member 258 can be received in a stopper 262 that is configured to help maintain the position and / or orientation of the module lock 250. The module lock 250 includes a biasing element 261, such as a coil spring, configured to bias the module lock1161335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356250 to the unlocked configuration. In the illustrated example, the biasing element 261 includes a coil spring disposed around the module locking pin 254 between the piston 252 and the base plate 232. Optionally, the module lock guide 248 includes a module lock retainer 264 disposed adjacent to a distal end of the module lock guide 248 to retain or capture the piston 252 within the bore of the module lock guide 248 when the module lock 250 is biased to the unlocked configuration (FIG.24).

[0076] With continued reference to FIGS. 15-16 and FIGS. 24-25, the locking actuator 216 includes a module locking member 266 disposed at a first end of the locking actuator 216 and an actuator locking member 268 extending from the module locking member 266 at an opposite second end of the locking actuator 216. Generally, the module locking member 266 is configured to interface with the module lock 250 to move the module lock 250 between the unlocked configuration (FIG. 24) and the locked configuration (FIG. 25), while the actuator locking member 268 is configured to selectively engage the actuator locking pin 228 to retain the locking actuator in the locked state (FIG. 25) until the actuator locking pin 228 is disengaged from the actuator locking member 268.

[0077] Referring still to FIGS. 15-16 and FIGS. 24-25, the module locking member 266 is slidably received within the actuator guide track 214 and is operable to translate along the first locking direction DI within the guide track 214. The module locking member 266 includes an actuator cam 270 disposed on a bottom side of the module locking member 266, facing the module lock guide 248. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 24, the actuator cam 270 is formed within a recess along the bottom side of the module locking member 266 and includes a sloped or inclined biasing surface 272 oriented at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis A214 of the guide track 214 (i.e., sloped towards the bottom side in a direction towards the first end). While the actuator cam 270 is formed as a recess within the bottom side of the module locking member 266, the actuator cam 270 may be provided a ramp or protrusion including the inclined biasing surface 272 along a bottom side of the module locking member 266.

[0078] With reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, the actuator cam 270 interfaces with the module lock cam 258 of the module lock 250 to move the module lock 250 between the unlocked configuration (FIG. 24) and the locked configuration (FIG. 25). In FIG. 24, the locking actuator 216 is in an unlocked position (i.e., shifted to the right) with the end of the locking actuator 216 extending from the actuator guide track opening 218 and the distal end 260 of the module lock cam 258 received1261335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356within the recess of the module locking member 266 adjacent to the biasing surface 272. In this configuration, the biasing element 261 of the module lock 250 biases the module lock to the unlocked configuration, whereby the module lock cam 258 extends into the recess and the module locking pin 254 is retracted from the module locking pin aperture 256 and the module locking pin receptacle 123 of the recoiler module 100, thereby allowing the alarm module 200 to slide in the direction DI relative to the recoiler module 100 within the mounting socket 116.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 25, when the locking actuator 216 is moved in direction DI to the locked position (i.e., shifted to the left) with the end of the locking actuator 216 retracted into the actuator guide track opening 218, the biasing surface 272 also moves in direction DI and biases the module lock cam 258 downward in direction D6 within the module lock guide 248. This simultaneously causes the module lock 250 to move towards the locked configuration, whereby the module locking pin 254 is extended through the module locking pin aperture 256 and into the module locking pin receptacle 123 of the recoiler module 100, thereby preventing movement of the alarm module 200 within the mounting socket 116 of the recoiler module 100.

[0080] Referring still to FIGS. 24 and 25, the actuator locking member 268 extends from the module locking member 266 to a second distal end of the locking actuator 216 and is configured to selectively engage with the actuator lock 226 to retain the locking actuator 216 in the locked position (FIG. 25). As best shown in FIG. 15, the actuator locking member 268 includes an actuator locking pin receptacle 274 formed through a top side of the actuator locking member 268 and is aligned with the central axis A214 of the actuator guide track 214. Thus, the actuator locking pin receptacle 274 is configured to selectively engage the actuator locking pin 228 when the locking actuator 216 is moved from the unlocked position (FIG. 24) to the locked position (FIG.25). As the locking actuator 216 is moved to the locked position, the actuator locking pin 228 is biased against and slides along a top side of the actuator locking member 268 until the actuator locking pin 228 aligns with the actuator locking pin receptacle 274. Once aligned, the actuator lock 226 is biased downward in direction D7 (i.e., by a coil spring) and the actuator locking pin 228 extends into the actuator locking pin receptacle 274, thereby restricting movement of the locking actuator 216 within the actuator guide track 214.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 16, the locking actuator 216 may further include an actuator biasing element 276 configured to bias the locking actuator 216 towards the unlocked position (i.e., opposite of direction DI). The actuator biasing element 276 may be a compression biasing element,1361335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356such as a coil spring, disposed between the module locking member 266 and a portion of the alarm module housing 202. Thus, to move the locking actuator 216 to the locked position, a biasing force Fl is applied to the first end of the module locking member 266 to overcome and compress the actuator biasing element 276 until the actuator locking pin receptacle 274 aligns with the actuator locking pin 228. Conversely, when the actuator locking pin 228 is disengaged from the actuator locking pin receptacle 274, the actuator biasing element 276 will return the locking actuator 216 to the unlocked position, thereby allowing the module lock 250 to retract from the module locking pin receptacle 123 of the recoiler module 100.

[0082] To disengage the alarm module 200 from the recoiler module 100, the actuator locking pin 228 is disengaged from the actuator locking pin receptacle 274 by placing a magnetic key (not shown) adjacent to the actuator lock guide 220. The actuator lock 226, or a portion thereof, includes a magnetic material that responds to a magnetic force applied by the magnetic key. The magnetic key is configured to provide a magnetic force that is greater than a force of the biasing element of the actuator lock 226. Thus, by placing the magnetic key adjacent to the actuator lock guide 220, the magnetic force is applied to the actuator lock 226 to bias the actuator lock to the unlocked configuration (i.e., opposite of direction D7), thereby retracting the actuator lock 226 and the actuator lock pin 228 from the actuator lock pin receptacle 274 of the locking actuator 216. The actuator biasing element 276 then biases the locking actuator 216 to the unlocked position (i.e., opposite of direction DI) such that the biasing surface 272 of the actuator cam 270 allows the module lock 250 to retract, thereby retracting the module lock pin 254 from the module lock pin receptacle 123 of the recoiler module 100. With the module lock pin 254 disengaged, the alarm module 200 can be slid from the peripheral opening 118 of the mounting socket 116 to disengage the alarm module 200 from the recoiler module 100 (i.e., opposite direction D4 in FIG. 21).

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the alarm module 200 further includes an alarm module control system 280, which may include a printed circuit board (PCB), data processing hardware, and memory hardware that stores one or more instructions to be executed by the data processing hardware. The alarm module control system 280 further includes a conductive spring element 282 in communication with the alarm module control system 280. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 19, when the alarm module 200 is assembled, the conductive spring element 282 is configured to extend through a conductive spring slot 284 formed through the base plate 232 of the alarm housing base 206, whereby the conductive spring element 282 resiliently protrudes from the bottom side of the1461335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356alarm module 200. The alarm module control system 280 may include one or more notification devices (not illustrated), such as a speaker or a visual notification (e.g., light).

[0084] As shown in FIG. 12, the base module 12 is assembled by sliding the base plate 232 of the alarm module 200 into engagement with the mounting socket 116 of the recoiler module 100, whereby the mounting tabs 120 are received within the mounting channels 240 and mounting notches 246. When the alarm module 200 is fully engaged with the recoiler module 100, the locking actuator 216 is moved to the locked position (FIG. 25) to secure the alarm module 200 to the recoiler module 100. As best shown in FIG. 22, the conductive spring element 282 of the alarm module 200 extends through the conducting spring slot 284 of the alarm module 200 and the upper shell opening 122 of the recoiler module 100 to contact the annular conductor board 148 of the recoiler 134. Each of the conductive spring element 282 and the annular conductor board 148 may be formed of a resilient, electrically conductive material to ensure that electrical contact is maintained between the conductive spring element 282 and the annular conductor board 148. When the recoiler 134 rotates in conjunction with the tether 132 being extended and / or retracted from the recoiler module 100, the annular conductor board 148 rotates relative to the conductive spring element 282 of the alarm module 200 to generate a rotation signal indicating a speed or distance that the recoiler 134 has rotated. Upon receipt of the rotation signal, the alarm module control system 280 may generate notification instructions to instruct the alarm module to generate a notification signal. The notification signal may include a visual notification signal, such as a light or a prompt on a network computer system. Additionally or alternatively, the notification signal may include an audible notification signal, such as a chirp or siren.

[0085] Referring now to FIGS. 26-30, the tether module 300 of the retail security system 10 is shown in conjunction with the second end 152 of the tether 132 of the recoiler module 100. The tether module 300 includes a tether module housing 302 having a length extending from a first end 304 to an opposite second end 306. The tether module housing 302 includes tether module housing shell 308 and a corresponding tether module housing cover 310. In the illustrated example, the tether module housing cover 310 is pivotally attached along a side of the tether module housing shell 308 by a tether housing hinge 312, which allows the tether module housing cover 310 to pivot between an opened configuration (shown in FIG. 26) and a closed configuration (FIG. 28). Optionally, the hinge 312 may include a biasing element or spring 332 to bias the tether module housing cover 310 to the opened position.1561335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0086] Referring still to FIG. 26, the tether module housing shell 308 includes a tether channel 314 extending continuously through the tether module housing shell 308 from the first end 304 to the second end 306. The tether module housing shell 308 further includes a tether receptacle 316 disposed adjacent to the second end 306. The tether channel 314 includes one or more locking recesses 318 disposed between the first end 304 and the second end 306, which are defined by portions of the tether channel 314 having an increased depth. The tether module housing cover 310 includes one or more corresponding tether locking tabs 320 that extend from a bottom side of the tether module housing cover 310 and are configured to engage or mate with respective ones of the locking recesses 318 when the tether module housing cover 310 is in the closed position. As shown, lengths L320 of the tether locking tabs 320 are oriented to be transverse to lengths of the locking recesses 318. In other words, each of the tether locking tabs 320 has a width W320 dimension extending along the lengthwise or longitudinal direction of the tether channel 314 and a length L320 dimension extending across the tether channel 314. This transverse configuration allows the tether locking tabs 320 to compress the tether 132 into the respective locking recesses 318 while accommodating or providing clearance for a thickness of the tether 132.

[0087] The tether receptacle 316 is formed adjacent to the second end 306 of the tether module housing shell 308 and is configured receive a tether retainer 156 attached to the second end 152 of the tether 132. As shown, the tether receptacle 316 includes a rectangular recess configured to receive a corresponding rectangular tether retainer 156. The tether receptacle 316 is enclosed by the tether module housing cover 310 when the tether module housing cover 310 is in the closed position, thereby capturing the tether retainer 156 and the second end 152 of the tether 132 within the tether module housing 302. When the tether 132 is assembled with the tether module 300, a first locking portion 157 of the tether 132 is received within the tether channel 314, the second end 152 of the tether 132 is received within the tether receptacle 316, and an intermediate portion of the tether 132 extends from the tether channel 314 to the tether receptacle 316 to form a tether loop 158 at the second end 306 of the housing. An effective length of the tether loop 158 may be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of products by moving the first portion of the tether 132 through the tether channel 314. For example, moving the tether 132 in the first direction D2 through the tether channel 314 will increase the size of the tether loop 158 and moving the tether 132 in the second direction D3 through the tether channel will decrease the size of the tether loop 158.1661335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0088] The tether module housing 302 further includes a locking system 322 including a locking tab 324 extending from a bottom side of the tether module housing cover 310 and a corresponding locking tab receptacle 326 formed in the top side of the tether module housing shell 308. The locking tab receptacle 326 is configured to receive the locking tab 324 when the tether module housing cover 310 is in the closed position. The locking system 322 further includes a locking element or pin 328 slidably received through a sidewall of the tether module housing shell 308 and operable between a locked configuration, whereby a distal end 330 of the locking pin 328 extends into the locking tab receptacle 326, and an unlocked configuration, whereby the distal end of the locking pin 328 is retracted from the locking tab receptacle 326. The locking pin 328 may include a biasing element, such as a compression spring 332 configured to bias the locking pin 328 towards the locked configuration.

[0089] In use, the tether module 300 is secured to a retail article or product by initial routing the second end 152 around the retail article to form the tether loop 158 around the retail article. The tether retainer 156 is inserted into the tether receptacle 316 to secure the first end 152 of the tether 132 in the tether module housing 302. The locking portion 157 of the tether 132 is then inserted into the tether channel 314 such that the tether loop 158 is tight around the respective retail article. With the locking portion 157 inserted into the tether channel 314, the tether module housing cover 310 is moved to the closed position and the tether locking tabs 320 crimp the locking portion 157 of the tether 132 within the respective locking recesses 318 of the tether channel 314 to secure a position of the tether 132 within the tether channel 314. When the tether module housing cover 310 is closed, the cover locking tab 324 is received within the locking tab receptacle 326 and the distal end 330 of the cover locking pin 328 engages the detent or aperture 334 formed on the cover locking tab 324 to secure or lock the cover locking tab 324 within the locking tab receptacle 326, thereby preventing the tether module housing cover 310 from being opened. To unlock the tether module housing cover 310, a magnetic key is placed adjacent to the cover locking pin 328 on the sidewall of the tether module housing shell 308. A magnetic force of the magnetic key is sufficient to overcome a biasing force of the biasing element 332 and causes the cover locking pin 328 to retract from the locking tab receptacle 326, thereby disengaging the cover locking tab 324 and allowing the tether module housing cover 310 to be opened so that the tether 132 can be removed or adjusted.1761335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356

[0090] The foregoing system 10 advantageously allows a variety of products having different sizes and shapes, or being in different retail environments, to be accommodated by a retailer with minimal modification. For example, a single recoiler module 100 may be attached at a retail location and different alarm modules 200 may be selectively interchanged based on the product or desired environment. For example, alarm modules 200 having different tones or volumes may be interchanged on the recoiler module 100. Further, the tether module 300 may be adjusted to accommodate retail articles having different sizes and / or shapes.

[0091] With particular reference to FIGS. 31-40, a base module 12a for a retail security system 10a is provided and includes a base recoiler module 100a, an intermediate recoiler module 100b, and the alarm module 200 that is releasably attached to the base recoiler module 100a. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the retail security system 10 with respect to the retail security system 10a, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0092] Generally, the base module 12a is configured to allow a plurality of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b to be connected to a single one of the alarm modules 200, thereby allowing the retail security system 10a to secure a plurality of retail articles within a shopping environment. In the illustrated example, the base module 12a includes the base recoiler module 100a and the intermediate recoiler module 100b disposed between the base recoiler module 100a and the alarm module 200. The base module 12a includes a recoiler coupler system 400 configured to transfer or transmit rotational movement of any one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b to the alarm module 200 - either directly or indirectly. As discussed previously, each of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b includes a recoiler 134, 134a that attaches to a tether module 300 via retractable tether 132. When the base module 12a is assembled, rotation of any one of the recoilers 134, 134a in conjunction with the tether 132 being extended and / or retracted generates a rotation signal at the alarm module 200. Upon receipt of the rotation signal, the alarm module control system 280 may generate notification instructions. Thus, the base module 12a allows a single alarm module 200 to generate a notification signal (e g., audio or visual notification signal) for a plurality of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the base recoiler module 100a is substantially similar to the recoiler module 100 and includes a recoiler module housing 102a including a recoiler housing1861335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356shell 104a and the recoiler housing plate 106. The recoiler housing shell 104a includes the recoiler housing shell sidewalls 108a-108d and a recoiler housing top wall 110a. Here, the recoiler housing top wall 110a is substantially similar to the recoiler housing top wall 110 described previously, but may include a larger upper shell opening 122a that exposes a top side of an annular conductor board 148a. As discussed below, the upper shell opening 122a provides an interface for coupling the recoiling system 130 of the base recoiler module 100a with a recoiling system 130 of an adjacent one of the intermediate recoiler modules 100b, whereby rotation of the recoiler 134 of the base recoiler module 100a is transferred to the one or more intermediate recoiler modules 100b through the upper shell opening 122a.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, the intermediate recoiler module 100b includes a recoiler module housing 102b including the recoiler housing shell 104a and a recoiler housing plate 106b that is configured to slidably mate with the mounting socket 116 formed in an adjacent one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b in a similar fashion as the alarm housing base 206 discussed previously. The recoiler housing plate 106b includes a bottom side 160, a top side 162 formed on an opposite side from the bottom side 160, and a plurality of peripheral walls 164a-164d extending between the bottom side 160 and the top side 162. As discussed herein, the peripheral walls 164a-164d may be referred to as including a pair of peripheral end walls 164a, 164c and a pair of peripheral sidewalls 164b, 164d extending between the peripheral end walls 164a, 164c. The peripheral sidewalls 164b, 164d each include a peripheral mounting channel 166 extending from an opening 168 at the second peripheral end wall 164c to a terminal end 170 adjacent to the first peripheral end wall 164a. The peripheral mounting channels 166 are each configured to slidably receive the corresponding mounting tabs 120 formed on the sides of the peripheral lip 114 of the recoiler module housing 102a. Additionally, the second peripheral end wall 164c may include one or more mounting notches 172 configured to receive the mounting tabs 120 formed on the peripheral lip 114 along the sidewall 108c of the recoiler housing shell 104a when intermediate recoiler module 100b is received within the mounting socket 116 of an adjacent recoiler module 100a, 100b.

[0095] Each of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b includes a recoiling system 130a that is substantially similar to the recoiling system 130 described previously except as described here. The recoiling system 130a includes a spool 136a (FIG. 36) having a first one of the flanges 140 and a second flange 140a extending from opposite sides of the arbor 138. The second flange1961335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356includes a first plurality of ratchet teeth 141 having a generally sawtooth profile formed on an upper surface thereof. The ratchet teeth 141 are arranged in an annular series about a central axis of the spool 136 and are configured to interface with corresponding ratchet teeth formed on an annular conductor board 148a during rotation of the recoiling system 130a.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 36-38, each of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b further includes an annular conductor board 148a having a substantially similar configuration as the conductor board 148 discussed previously. The annular conductor board 148a of FIGS. 36-38 further includes a first transmission coupler 174 disposed on a first side of the annular conductor board 148a and a second plurality of ratchet teeth 176 disposed on the opposite side of the annular conductor board 148a. In the illustrated example, the first transmission coupler 174 is embodied as a hex-shaped boss configured to rotationally couple the recoiling system 130a to a first transmission module 402 of the recoiler coupler system 400. While the illustrated example includes a hex-shaped coupler, other configurations of rotational couplers may be incorporated (e.g., square, star, friction, etc.). The annular conductor board 148a may further include a second transmission coupler 178 formed in the bottom side of the annular conductor board 148a and configured to rotationally couple the annular conductor board 148a to a second recoiler module 402 of the recoiler coupler system 400.

[0097] The bottom side of the annular conductor board 148a includes the second plurality of ratchet teeth 176 configured to interface with the first ratchet teeth 141 of the spool 136a to provide a unidirectional rotational coupling between the annular conductor board 148a and the spool 136a. As discussed in greater detail below, this unidirectional interface allows the annular conductor board 148a to rotate with the spool 136a when the spool is rotated in a first direction (e.g., an unwinding direction), but permits the annular conductor board 148a to rotate independently of the spool 136a when the annular conductor board 148a is rotated in the unwinding direction by the recoiler coupler system 400. This configuration permits the annular conductor board 148a to be freely rotated by the recoiler coupler system 400 without rotating the corresponding spool 136a of the recoiling system 130a.

[0098] Referring still to FIGS. 31-40, the base module 12a includes the recoiler coupler system 400 configured to communicate rotational movement from any one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b to the alarm module 200. In the illustrated example, the recoiler coupler system 400 includes a mechanical recoiler coupler system 400 that transfers rotation of a recoiling system 130a of a first one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b through the intermediate recoiler modules 100b to the2061335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356alarm module 200. As shown in FIG. 32, the recoiler coupler system 400 includes a transmission module 402 that cooperates with the recoiling systems 130a of adjacent ones of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b.

[0099] The transmission module 402 of the illustrated example includes a transmission shaft 404 having a first transmission coupler 406 disposed at a first end of the transmission shaft 404 and a second transmission coupler 408 disposed at an opposite second end of the transmission shaft 404. The first transmission coupler 406 is configured to couple with the first transmission coupler 174 formed on the top side of the annular conductor board 148a while the second transmission coupler 408 is configured to couple with the second transmission coupler 178 formed on the bottom side of the annular conductor board 148a.

[0100] With continued reference to FIG. 32, an example of the base module 12a in the assembled state with the recoiler coupler system 400 is provided. As shown, the base module 12a is assembled such that the recoiler housing plate 106b of the intermediate recoiler module 100b is coupled within the mounting socket 116 of the base recoiler module 100a. As shown, a first one of the transmission modules 402 is integrated within the base module 12a such that the first transmission coupler 406 of the transmission module 402 is coupled to the first transmission coupler 174 formed on the annular conductor board 148a of the first recoiler module 100a. The transmission shaft 404 of the transmission module 402 extends through the arbor 138 of the spool 136a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b, whereby the second transmission coupler 408 of the transmission module 402 couples to the second transmission coupler 178 formed on the bottom side of the annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b. Accordingly, the annular conductor board 148a of the base recoiler module 100a is rotationally coupled to the annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b via the transmission module 402.

[0101] In an example use, when the tether 132 of the base recoiler module 100a is pulled to an extended position the corresponding spool 136a rotates in an unwinding direction. During rotation in the unwinding direction, the ratchet teeth 141 of the spool 136a engage the ratchet teeth 176 formed on the bottom side of the annular conductor board 148a to cause co-rotation of the spool 136a and the annular conductor board 148a of the base recoiler module 100a in the unwinding direction. As the annular conductor board 148a of the base recoiler module 100a rotates in the unwinding direction, rotation is transferred to the transmission module 402, which also rotates in the unwinding direction. Because the transmission module 402 is rotationally coupled to the2161335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b, the annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b co-rotates with transmission module 402 and the lower spool 136a.

[0102] The annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b rotates relative to the conductive spring element 282 of the alarm module 200 to generate a rotation signal indicating a speed or distance that the recoiler 134 has rotated. Upon receipt of the rotation signal, the alarm module control system 280 may generate notification instructions to instruct the alarm module to generate a notification signal. The notification signal may include a visual notification signal, such as a light or a prompt on a network computer system. Additionally or alternatively, the notification signal may include an audible notification signal, such as a chirp or siren.

[0103] As discussed previously, the recoiler coupler system 400 may be configured such that rotation of the base recoiler module 100a (or any lower intermediate recoiler module 100b) does not cause co-rotation of the spools 136a of the one or more intermediate recoiler modules 100b. Particularly, when the annular conductor board 148a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b rotates in the unwinding direction, the ratcheting interface between the annular conductor board 148a and the upper flange 140a of the spool 136a allows the annular conductor board 148a to rotate freely relative to the spool 136a. Thus, the spool 136a of the intermediate recoiler module 100b will not bind or unwind when the spool 136a of the base recoiler module 100a is rotated.

[0104] While the illustrated example provides a base module 12a including a single intermediate recoiler module 100b, the retail security system 10a of FIGS. 31-40 is configured such that any number of the intermediate recoiler modules 100b can be implemented between the base recoiler module 100a and the alarm module 200. Regardless of how many intermediate recoiler modules 100b are included, the recoiler coupler system 400 allows rotational motion of the recoiling system 130a of any one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b to be communicated to the alarm module 200. Thus, a single alarm module 200 can provide security to a plurality of retail articles.

[0105] While the illustrated example shows the recoiler modules 100a, 100b having indirect mechanical and electrical communication with the alarm module 200 via the recoiler coupler system 400 and the annular conductor boards 148a, the base module 12a may additionally or alternatively include other electronic communication systems for actuating the alarm module 200. For instance, any one of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b may include an integrated position or motion sensor, such as a hall-effect sensor or optical encoder, that measures rotation of the2261335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356recoilers 134a and locally generates a rotation signal. The recoiler modules can then relay this signal to the alarm module 200 through either wired or wireless methods.

[0106] For a wired connection, the recoiler modules 100a, 100b may include electrical contacts integrated into the housing top walls 110a and the housing plates 106b. These contacts, which could be spring-loaded pogo pins or conductive pads, would align and communicate with each other when the recoiler modules 100a, 100b are stacked and connected. In this configuration, rotation signals generated by a lower recoiler module would be communicated up through the electrical contacts of any intermediate modules in a daisy-chain fashion to reach the alarm module 200.

[0107] In other examples, each of the recoiler modules 100a, 100b may include a wireless communication system, such as Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), or Wi-Fi, to wirelessly relay the rotation signal to the alarm module 200. In this configuration, each recoiler module would have its own power source, such as a coin-cell battery, and a transmitter. The alarm module 200 would have a corresponding receiver. When a sensor detects rotation, the transmitter for that specific module sends a signal directly to the alarm module. This signal could include a unique identifier, allowing the alarm module 200 or a connected retail network to know precisely which device is being handled. This wireless method simplifies the mechanical design by eliminating the need for a physical electrical pass-through between modules.

[0108] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0109] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present.2361335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0110] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0111] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.2461335561.1

Claims

Attorney Docket No. : 251043-571356CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A modular retail security system comprising:a first recoiler module including a first housing, a first recoiler disposed within the first housing, and a first tether including a first end coupled to the first recoiler and a second end extending from the first housing;a second recoiler module including a second housing coupled to the first housing of the first recoiler module, a second recoiler disposed within the second housing, and a second tether including a third end coupled to the second recoiler and a fourth end extending from the second housing;an alarm module selectively coupled to the second housing of the second recoiler module and in communication with the first recoiler and the second recoiler; anda tether module selectively attached to at least one of the first tether or the second tether.

2. The modular retail security system of Claim 1, wherein the first housing of the first recoiler module includes a first mounting socket and the second housing of the second recoiler module is engaged with the first mounting socket.

3. The modular retail security system of Claim 2, wherein the second housing of the second recoiler module includes a second mounting socket configured the same as the first mounting socket.

4. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 1-3, wherein the alarm module is in electronic communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

5. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 1-4, wherein the alarm module is in mechanical communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

6. The modular retail security system of Claim 1, further comprising a recoiler coupler system rotationally coupling the first recoiler and the second recoiler.2561335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-5713567. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 1-6, wherein the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module includes a spool rotationally mounted within the housing and an annular conductor disposed on the spool, and the alarm module includes a conductive spring element in contact with the annular conductor through the housing of the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module.

8. The modular retail security system of Claim 7, wherein rotation of the annular conductor relative to the conductive spring element generates a rotation signal.

9. The modular retail security system of Claim 8, further comprising a control system configured to receive the rotation signal and to generate a notification based on the rotation signal.

10. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 1-9, wherein the tether module is configured to receive a first portion of the at least one of the first tether or the second tether and a second portion of the at least one of the first tether or the second tether to define a tether loop.

11. A modular retail security system comprising:a first recoiler module including a first housing, a first recoiler disposed within the first housing, and a first tether including a first end coupled to the first recoiler and a second end extending from the first housing;a second recoiler module including a second housing coupled to the first housing of the first recoiler module, a second recoiler disposed within the second housing, and a second tether including a third end coupled to the second recoiler and a fourth end extending from the second housing; anda transmission module rotationally coupling the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

12. The modular retail security system of Claim 11, wherein the first housing of the first recoiler module includes a first mounting socket and the second housing of the second recoiler is engaged with the first mounting socket.2661335561.1Attorney Docket No. : 251043-57135613. The modular retail security system of Claim 12, wherein the second housing of the second recoiler module includes a second mounting socket configured the same as the first mounting socket.

14. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 11-13, further comprising an alarm module selectively coupled to the second housing of the second recoiler module and in communication with the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

15. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 11-14, wherein the alarm module is in electronic communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

16. The modular retail security system of Claim 14 or 15, wherein the alarm module is in mechanical communication with each of the first recoiler and the second recoiler.

17. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 11-16, wherein the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module includes a spool rotationally mounted within the housing and an annular conductor disposed on the spool, and the alarm module includes a conductive spring element in contact with the annular conductor through the housing of the at least one of the first recoiler module or the second recoiler module.

18. The modular retail security system of Claim 17, wherein rotation of the annular conductor relative to the conductive spring element generates a rotation signal.

19. The modular retail security system of Claim 18, further comprising a control system configured to receive the rotation signal and to generate a notification based on the rotation signal.

20. The modular retail security system of any of Claims 11-19, further comprising a tether module selectively attached to the second end of at least one of the first tether or the second tether.2761335561.1

Images