Store device network that transmits power and data through mounting fixtures
US11394927B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 23, 2020 |
| Grant date | Jul 19, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 29, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06N7/01
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
System that allows devices of an autonomous store, such as sensors in product display areas, to receive power and communicate data over conductive rails of store fixtures. By using fixtures to transmit data and power, the need for cabling to these devices, or for batteries to power the devices, is eliminated or greatly reduced, thereby dramatically simplifying installation and maintenance. Illustrative fixtures over which devices can communicate include slatwalls, pegboards, and rectangular support bars. Power and data may be multiplexed onto the same pair of conductive rails. Embodiments may use device hubs to coordinate communication with devices and to act as gateways between devices and centralized store servers. Devices may communicate their identities and locations to store servers to facilitate installation; for example, they may display their identities on electronic labels that are imaged by store cameras, so that the store server can learn the location of each device automatically.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.