ESL Support Hook with Locking Angle Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arrangements for securing electronic shelf labels (ESLs) to elongated support elements, such as T-shaped rods, are not robust enough and can be easily turned or removed unintentionally, especially when exposed to external forces.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an ESL support arrangement with a flat member and two support hooks that can be angled and locked into position using a turnable angle selection element and a locking mechanism, ensuring the ESL remains securely attached to the support element even under external forces. This arrangement includes a protrusion for mechanical contact with the support element and a locking element with cogs and shoulders for stable locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple support arrangement is used for ESL, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and robustness deteriorate as the ESL can be easily turned or removed unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The support arrangement incorporates an angle selection element that can rotate relative to the support body, allowing the ESL to be positioned at different angles (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°) while maintaining secure attachment. This dynamic capability enables adaptability without requiring multiple separate support devices, thus improving reliability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate locking mechanism that acts as a mediator between the angle selection element and the support body. This locking element prevents unintentional rotation or removal while allowing controlled adjustment, thereby enhancing robustness without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed angular position is used for ESL support, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates as the ESL cannot be repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The angle selection element is designed to rotate relative to the support body, enabling the ESL to be positioned at multiple predetermined angles. This dynamic feature provides adaptability for different display requirements while maintaining ease of operation through a simple rotational motion without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arrangement is segmented into distinct functional elements: a support body, an angle selection element, and a locking element. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system both adaptable and easy to operate.
3Reliability
If a robust locking mechanism is added to prevent unintentional removal, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A locking element is introduced as an intermediary component that engages with the angle selection element to prevent unintentional rotation or removal. This simple locking mechanism provides reliable stabilization while adding minimal complexity to the overall support arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage through the rotational motion of the angle selection element, eliminating the need for separate manual locking operations. This self-service feature enhances reliability while keeping the device complexity low.
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
The present invention relates to an arrangement (10; 10') for securing an electronic shelf label (ESL) (100) to an elongated support element (14) with a transverse member (16) with substantially circular cross section such that the support element (14) will have an T-shaped outer end, said arrangement comprising: an ESL support body (20; 20') secured in an ESL casing or an ESL holder (12), said support body comprises a substantially flat member (21; 21 ') extending in a plane substantially parallel to the ESL and two support hooks (22, 23; 22', 23') extending from said flat member, said support hooks each comprising a substantially circular interior with an internal radius corresponding to an radius of the transverse member (16), and an opening (25; 25'), intended to face downwards, exceeding the double radius of the transverse member such that the support hook is arrangeable around the transverse member; an angel selection element (40; 40') turnably connected to the support body (20; 20') to make it possible to select an angular position of the support body (20; 20') in relation to the elongated support element (14), said angle selection element comprises a protrusion (46; 46') intended to be in contact with the elongated support element (14) when the support body is in the desired angular position; and a locking element (60; 60') slidably arranged between a first position in which the angle selection element (40; 40') is turnable in relation to the support body (20; 20') around the transverse member, and a second position in which the angle selection element (40; 40') is locked in relation to the support body (20; 20') and the desired angular position of the support body (20; 20') maintained.