U.S. patent application number 11/971648 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-15 for passive display unit and system and method of use.
Invention is credited to Norman DeCost, Joel Hladecek, Scott Keller, Frederic MacDonald, Donald C. Miffitt.
Application Number | 20080115187 11/971648 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32685546 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080115187 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DeCost; Norman ; et
al. |
May 15, 2008 |
PASSIVE DISPLAY UNIT AND SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE
Abstract
A device for displaying messages includes a passive display unit
having a display screen, a receiver that receives downloaded
information and a processor for processing and storing the
downloaded information and providing control to the passive display
unit. The display system may include a computer which stores
information and a transceiver which downloads and stores the
information received from the computer. A method of transmitting
and displaying information on the passive display unit is also
provided.
Inventors: |
DeCost; Norman; (Midlothian,
VA) ; Hladecek; Joel; (Los Angeles, CA) ;
Keller; Scott; (Billerica, MA) ; MacDonald;
Frederic; (Santa Monica, CA) ; Miffitt; Donald
C.; (Chelmsford, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SONNENSCHEIN NATH & ROSENTHAL LLP
P.O. BOX 061080
WACKER DRIVE STATION, SEARS TOWER
CHICAGO
IL
60606-1080
US
|
Family ID: |
32685546 |
Appl. No.: |
11/971648 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10757577 |
Jan 15, 2004 |
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11971648 |
Jan 9, 2008 |
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60444646 |
Feb 4, 2003 |
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60440323 |
Jan 16, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
725/134 ;
345/55 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20130101;
G06Q 20/327 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
725/134 ;
345/055 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/173 20060101
H04N007/173; G09G 3/20 20060101 G09G003/20 |
Claims
1. A device for displaying information, comprising a passive,
mobile display unit having a display screen, a receiver that
receives downloaded information and a processor for processing and
storing the downloaded information and providing control to the
passive, mobile display unit to display the information on the
display screen.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the display screen is a single
line, multiple line or graphic display.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the processor includes memory for
storing the information.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the receiver includes at least
one infrared data port, a radio frequency (RF) port and cellular
port to receive the downloaded information.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein during the download of
information, the processor ceases display operations and activates
the display screen when the download is completed.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen continues to display the
information.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen displays default information loaded
within memory of the display unit until the download is
completed.
8. The device of claim 1, further comprising one of a motion sensor
and a timer to activate the display screen.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein after a successful download is
received the passive display unit ignores any erroneous data input
and begins displaying the information on the display screen.
10. The device of claim 1, further comprising an anti-theft
device.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the anti-theft device is a
global positioning system or RF triangulation.
12. The device of claim 10, wherein the anti-theft device includes
a sound or light alarm or circuitry for activating a wheel-locking
mechanism which is activated when the passive display unit is moved
beyond a determined range from a central location.
13. The device of claim 1, wherein the display screen is one of a
plasma display, an organic light emitting diode (LED) display and
active matrix LCD display.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the receiver is an infrared or
radio frequency (RF) receiver.
15. The device of claim 14, wherein: the infrared receiver
communicates at an effective data rate of about 115,200 bits per
second and is sensitive to establish an error-free transmission at
a distance of about 18 inches, and the RF receiver communicates at
an effective data rate of about 5,000 to 10,000 bits per second and
is sensitive to establish an error-free transmission at a distance
of about up to at least 300 yards.
16. The device of claim 1, further comprising a power module to
power the display screen, processor and receiver.
17. The device of claim 16, wherein the power module includes a
sleep command to conserve energy and battery life.
18. The device of claim 1, wherein the passive display unit
includes a transmitter for message verification and is absent of
any user controls.
19. The device of claim 1, wherein the passive display unit is void
of user inputs.
20. The device of claim 1, wherein the passive display unit is not
activated via a trigger signal.
21. A passive display system, comprising: a computer which
downloads and stores information; a transceiver which downloads and
stores the information received from the computer; and a passive,
mobile display unit which receives the information stored in the
transceiver, at any location, and displays the information on a
display screen.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the passive, mobile display
unit is programmed by the transceiver independent of any location
of the passive, mobile display.
23. The system of claim 21, wherein the transceiver is one of a
mobile and a fixed transceiver.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the mobile transceiver
includes: an internal receiver that receives the information from
the computer; an infrared transmitter for transmitting the
information to the passive display unit; a processing unit controls
functions of the internal paging receiver and the infrared
transmitter; and a protected port connector to allow initial
parameters to be entered, and allow various message buffers to be
downloaded into the mobile transceiver.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the internal receiver is field
programmable and is capable of receiving a minimum of four (4) cap
codes.
26. The system of claim 24, wherein the infrared transmitter
communicates at an effective data rate of approximately 115,200
bits per second and at an intensity or signal strength to establish
an error free transmission at a distance of about 18 inches.
27. The system of claim 24, wherein the processor is pre-programmed
to at least one of: (i) separate data and commands structure
packets buffering each for proper inclusion and execution; (ii)
assemble the data in form and sequence for download; (iii) save the
information in event of a power loss or failure; (iv) store at
least two complete unique downloads; (v) receive, load, and change
to alternate operational software on command; (vi) switch between
transmitted message downloads on a time-based command; (vii)
continuous transmit of the data on external command; (viii) adjust
the clock time with a received command; (ix) store and load cap
codes with the time-based command; and (x) store and change
frequency with the time-based command.
28. The system of claim 21, wherein: the passive, mobile display
unit includes a RF receiver, and the transceiver includes: an RF
receiver for receiving information from the computer; and an RF
transmitter for transmitting the information to the passive, mobile
display unit, wherein the transceiver is one of a fixed and mobile
transceiver.
29. The system of claim 21, wherein the passive, mobile display
unit includes: an infrared receiving unit for receiving the
information from the transceiver; and a processing unit for
processing the information from the transceiver.
30. The system of claim 28, wherein the processing unit includes a
motion sensor and an anti-theft unit.
31. The system of claim 29, wherein the processing unit includes a
motion sensor and an anti-theft unit.
32. The system of claim 21, wherein the display screen is one of
(i) a single or multiple line LCD display screen, (ii) a plasma
display screen, (iii) a graphical display, (iv) organic light
emitting diode (LED) display and (iv) active matrix LCD
display.
33. The system of claim 21, wherein the passive, mobile display
unit includes one of a motion sensor and a timer to activate the
display screen.
34. The system of claim 21, wherein: during the download of the
information, the processor ceases display operations and activates
the display screen when the download is completed; and after a
successful download is received the passive display unit ignores
any erroneous data input and begins displaying the information.
35. The system of claim 21, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen continues to display the
information.
36. The system of claim 21, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen displays default information loaded
within memory of the display unit until the download is
completed.
37. The system of claim 21, wherein the passive display unit
transmits message verification.
38. A passive display system, comprising: a computer which stores
and transmits information; a remote off-site transceiver receiving
and transmitting the information received from the computer; and a
passive, mobile display unit which receives the information from
the transceiver, and displays the information on a display
screen.
39. A method of transmitting and displaying information on a
passive display unit, comprising the steps of: downloading
information from a computer system to a mobile transceiver unit;
locating at least one passive display unit; placing the mobile
transceiver unit in proximity to the passive display unit; and
transmitting the information from the mobile transceiver unit to a
receiver in the at least one passive display unit.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising the step of ceasing
display operations during the download of the information.
41. The method of claim 39, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen continues to display the
information.
42. The method of claim 39, wherein during the download of
information, the display screen displays default information loaded
within memory of the display unit until the download is
completed.
43. The method of claim 39, further comprising activating the
display screen when the download is completed and ignoring any
erroneous data input.
44. The method of claim 39, wherein the downloaded information may
be downloaded from one of (i) internet, (ii) intranet, (iii)
telephone, (iv) email and (vi) wireless.
45. A method of transmitting and displaying information on a
passive display unit, comprising the steps of: downloading
information to a computer system; transmitting the downloaded
information to a single transceiver unit; locating at least one
passive display unit; and transmitting the information from the
single transceiver unit to a receiver in the at least one passive
display unit regardless of a location of the at least one passive
display unit within a retail environment.
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising the step of ceasing
display operations during the download of the information.
47. The method of claim 45, wherein the downloaded information may
be downloaded from one of (i) internet, (ii) intranet, (iii)
telephone, (iv) email and (vi) wireless.
48. The method of claim 45, wherein the transmitting information to
the receiver and transceiver is accomplished by RF signals.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/757,577, filed Jan. 15, 2004 which claims
priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/444,646 filed
on Feb. 4, 2003 and U.S. provisional application Ser. No.
60/440,323 filed on Jan. 16, 2003, all of which are incorporated by
reference in their entirety herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention generally relates to a passive display unit
for displaying text and graphical information such as
advertisements and other information, and an accompanying operating
system.
[0004] 2. Background Description
[0005] Advertisements, promotions and community information play a
critical role in the sale of items and products within a retail
environment. Such advertisements may take many different forms from
displays to general placards, and other signage. Promotions, on the
other hand, may include coupons, rebates and product samples. In
either case of advertisements or promotions, it has been found that
consumers respond favorably to these marketing devices, thus
resulting in increased store sales. Community information may
include, for example, community seasonal events.
[0006] However, it is desirable to find new marketing devices to
encourage the consumer to increase their purchasing in a particular
retail environment. For example, neon signage has increased over
the years to attract a consumer to a specific retail store. Once in
the store the retailer further encourages the consumer to purchase
items through the use of public announcements and other sales
tactics.
[0007] In one known method of advertisement, a printed sign is
placed on a shopping cart to encourage the consumer to purchase a
certain item. These signs are periodically changed which is very
time consuming and expensive since large retailer may have hundreds
of shopping carts and the signs must be changed on all of the
carts.
[0008] To overcome the burdens of changing each sign on each
shopping cart, interactive systems have been developed which
display advertisements for specific items as the shopping cart is
transported through the retail environment. In one approach, an
electronic display unit and transceiver is mounted on a cart.
Throughout the retail environment are several transmitters
programmed with information concerning a specific item of interest,
typically near the transmitter. As the consumer approaches a
specific item, the receiver on the display will receive a
product-specific message transmitted from the transmitter through
what is sometimes referred to as a "trigger signal". These display
units are also interactive where they allow the consumer to, for
example,
[0009] choose between different settings,
[0010] choose different promotions,
[0011] pay for an item at the shopping cart,
[0012] perform calculations,
[0013] input information via keys, bar code readers and scanners so
that the consumer may request certain information concerning
placement or sale of certain products,
[0014] order items from other areas of the store (such as food from
the deli),
[0015] get maps/directions to products in the store, and
[0016] get recipes/recommendations for food preparation.
[0017] In more sophisticated systems, the display may allow a
consumer to organize a shopping list in accordance with locations
of products within a store. This may be accomplished by generating
a list in accordance with a cash register tape bearing a bar code.
In some other systems, the units may keep track of and record the
purchasing habits of a consumer. Some of these systems also act as
a redemption coupon device.
[0018] In any case, it is known that these interactive systems are
expensive and complex. For example, the components supporting these
systems such as many transmitters and the like are complex systems
which require expensive support. The placement of many wireless
transmitters throughout each store is cumbersome, requiring complex
installation and maintenance with a high likelihood of interference
with in-store IT systems. These systems may even, in fact,
interfere with one another causing consumer confusion,
mis-information and the like.
[0019] In addition, these systems require the consumer to interact
with the devices by pushing buttons, swiping I.D. cards, and
navigating through on-screen menus to receive content. This has
been known to be frustrating to the consumer to the extent that the
consumer will no longer interact with the system and, in many,
cases completely ignore the display, to the detriment of sales
within the retail environment. Also, such systems require the
display unit to transmit signals and interact with other devices
throughout the store. In some applications, due to interference,
these systems do not work properly.
[0020] Some of these system lack privacy which is inherent with
"personalized" systems. This is considered a significant negative
by most shoppers. And "alert" systems (e.g., beeping, flashing, and
vibrating to draw attention to certain products) are considered a
severe annoyance. These interactive systems are also very delicate,
and cannot withstand the high-impact environments and outdoor usage
and storage that a shopping cart must endure. Additionally, the
inclusion of buttons, additional components and overall device size
leads to an increased probability of breakage.
[0021] It is also known that these interactive devices have very
high power consumption (multiple cells, external battery packs, or
built-in rechargeable). This leads to short battery life due to
their complex functionality. Additionally, these devices are overly
bulky due to their added functionality such as large display
screens, numerous buttons, bar code readers, navigation devices,
card swipe components, etc. For this reason, and the reasons above,
these devices are delicate and not designed to be permanently
mounted on the shopping cart handle. Many require the consumer to
seek out a device and place it on the cart, or require that the
carts remain indoors.
[0022] The invention overcomes one or more of these
shortcomings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] In one aspect of the invention, a device for displaying
messages includes a passive display unit having a display screen, a
receiver that receives downloaded information and a processor for
processing and storing the downloaded information and providing
control to the passive display unit.
[0024] In another aspect of the invention, a display system
includes a computer which stores information and a mobile
transceiver which downloads and stores the information received
from the computer. A passive display unit receives the information
stored in the mobile transceiver, at any location, and displays the
information on a display screen.
[0025] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method is provided
for transmitting and displaying information on a passive display
unit. The method includes downloading information from a computer
system to a fixed or mobile transceiver unit. The transceiver unit
transmits the information to a receiver in at least one passive
display unit. In embodiments, during the download of the
information, the display may cease operations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of the transmitter in
accordance with the invention;
[0027] FIG. 2 shows the display device in accordance with the
invention;
[0028] FIG. 3 shows an integrated display device in accordance with
the invention; and
[0029] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0030] The invention is directed to a passive display system for
displaying information such as advertisements, promotions,
community information and the like. The passive display may be a
programmable display using a single-point mobile or fixed-location
transceiver. The mobile transceiver (e.g. wand), may be easily
transported to each display unit for programming, unlike
traditional systems which are programmed by moving the cart to the
transmitter. The fixed transceiver is able to simultaneously
program or download information to all of the display units in the
retail environment (providing total in-store coverage), within the
broadcast range. These two examples are unlike traditional location
based systems which are programmed by moving the cart to the
transmitter.
[0031] The display system, in one embodiment, includes a passive
display unit attached to or integrally formed with a handle of a
shopping cart or other mobile material handling unit (see FIG. 3).
The transceiver may be used to program the display unit via
infrared coupling or by the use of RF or other transmission
technologies. The transceiver may be programmed via a computer at a
remote location or within the retail environment. The passive
display does not include any user inputs or triggering mechanisms,
nor is it activated by any triggering events within the retail
environment such as product displays and the like. The display
unit, preferably, works independent of any store display or user
commands, and does not include a transmitter or other type of
signal generator. In one embodiment, the display unit may include a
transmitter for message receipt verification. The use of the
display system of the invention is also independent of any location
within a retail environment.
[0032] In implementations of the invention, the display system has
been designed with simplicity and ease-of-use. The display unit and
accompanying system is less complex and expensive than that of an
interactive display systems. The display unit does not include any
buttons or other interactive devices which would require input from
the user. Thus, messages are delivered to the display without any
interaction by the users. Consumption of content is at the user's
sole discretion, so messages are embraced more positively.
[0033] The entirety of the system is further designed to avoid the
need for multiple transmitters and receivers throughout a space and
more particularly within a retail environment. Messaging is updated
as needed with a single transceiver, e.g., the wand or fixed
device, thus minimizing costs. Also, with the mobile transceiver
there is no opportunity for interference with in-store IT systems.
The display system is designed specifically to withstand outdoor
storage conditions, while maintaining functional simplicity,
minimal associated parts and components and low profile design to
reduce chances of breakage. Also, the simple functionality
substantially reduces power requirements, thus requiring smaller
batteries and longer service life.
[0034] The following are implementations of the display unit and
accompanying system. It should be recognized by those of ordinary
skill in the art, though, that different implementations are
contemplated and may be easily implemented by those of ordinary
skill in the art, after reading the disclosure. For example, there
may be variations in radio frequencies (RF), transmission and error
rates and the like. Thus, the specific features provided herein are
illustrative examples and should not be considered limiting
features.
The Transceiver
[0035] Referring to FIG. 1, the system of the invention includes a
transceiver depicted as a wand generally designated as reference
numeral 10. The transceiver 10 may be at a fixed location within a
retail or other environment or may be a mobile transceiver,
allowing the operator to program each display system at any
location, either simultaneously or separately or any combination
thereof. A mobile transceiver may be an off-the-shelf transceiver
programmed to perform the following functions. The transceiver may
also be a unit of a computer.
[0036] In one implementation, the transceiver 10 is designed to
operate and remain within specifications over a temperature range
of at least 32.degree. F. (0.degree. C.) to 105.degree. F.
(40.degree. C.). The transceiver 10 need not operate but will be
capable of surviving with no damage through temperatures of at
least -4.degree. F. (-20.degree. C.) to 140.degree. F. (+60.degree.
C.) with no special handling. The materials and assembly for the
transceiver are also designed to be water resistant. The materials
and assemblies contemplated for use with the transceiver to achieve
the desired operational conditions may include, for example,
engineering thermoplastics, gasketed metals, ultrasonic welding
processes and other suitable materials and assemblies.
[0037] The design of the transceiver may comprise six hardware
sections described below. In embodiments, some of the these
hardware sections may not be necessary for the implementations of
the invention. These hardware components can be easily implemented
and incorporated into the transceiver of the invention by those of
ordinary skill of the art. The transceiver 10 may be used to
program the display unit via infrared coupling or by the use of RF
technologies or other transmission technologies. The transceiver
may be programmed via a computer at a remote location or within the
retail environment by infrared, RF or other wireless mobile
communication devices.
[0038] 1. Receiver
[0039] In one embodiment, an internal receiver 12 will receive and
decode Flex Protocol as defined within the Flex Protocol Version
G1.9 dated Mar. 16, 1998. The receiver 12 will operate, in one
embodiment, in the U.S. 900 MHz Frequencies and, more preferably,
from 902 MHz to 928 MHz or 929 MHz through 932 Mhz and from 940 Mhz
through 941 MHz. The receiver frequency will be easily field
programmable and can thus change from the above
characteristics.
[0040] The receiver 12, in one implementation, is capable of
receiving a minimum of four (4) cap codes which may be field
programmable. The receiver 12 should have an overall minimum
sensitivity of 5.mu.v/m, and may include a spurious rejection of at
least 45 dBc and a selectivity of greater than 65 dB. The received
bandwidth should be no greater than 20 kHz and the modulation
acceptance should preferably be 4.8 kHz.
[0041] Of course, it should be recognized that this is only one
implementation of the invention, and that other implementations,
including different frequencies and the like are contemplated by
the invention. For example, the receiver, of course, may also be
implemented using RF and/or infrared technologies. The use of RF
and infrared technologies is discussed in detail herein.
[0042] 2. Transmitter
[0043] In one implementation, the transceiver 10 further includes a
transmitter 14 designed to communicate at an effective data rate of
approximately 115,200 bits per second and be of a sufficient
intensity or signal strength to establish an error-free
transmission at a distance of 18 inches. Error free in this case is
defined to mean an averaged Bit Error Rate (BER) of less than three
errors in one million bits.
[0044] In one implementation, the transmitter is an infrared
transmitter designed to communicate with the display unit, as
discussed in more detail below. In another implementation, the
transmitter is a RF transmitter designed to communicate with the
display unit, as discussed below. Both the infrared and RF may be
implemented together, as well.
[0045] The transmitter system may additionally perform the
following functions:
[0046] Initiate (via a phone line) acquisition of new loop data, or
receive loop data automatically;
[0047] Store loop data locally; and/or
[0048] Continually transmit loop data via RF broadcast.
[0049] In the RF implementation, the transmitter may have a
Frequency Band of 902-928 MHz, and implement Frequency Hopping
Spread Spectrum (FHSS) with a RF Power of up to 1 watt. The
electrical interface may be an Ethernet-type Modular Connector
(power and data). Additionally, the transmitter may include an
Omni-directional antenna.
[0050] 3. Real Time Clock
[0051] In one implementation, the transceiver 10 further includes a
real time clock 16 designed to be accurate to one part in one
million. The clock time will be settable with a command input from
the receiver 16 (via a bus 18, for example) or a port 20. The port
20 may also be used to program the transceiver. One of ordinary
skill in the art should easily be able to implement and use the
real time clock.
[0052] 4. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
[0053] In one implementation, the transceiver 10 also includes a
central processing unit (CPU) 22 which can be any known CPU such as
those designed by Intel.RTM. or Motorola.RTM. providing the desired
functions. The CPU may include random access memory (RAM) or read
only memory (ROM). In the case of ROM, the CPU would be
pre-programmed to perform many functions, as discussed below. The
CPU may be hardwired, for example, to the components, e.g., 12, 14,
16, etc., of the transceiver 10 to provide functionality and
control thereto. The CPU 22 is preferably designed to perform the
following functions, as can be implemented and understood by those
of ordinary skill in the art.
[0054] Receive data from the Flex decoder and the port.
[0055] Receive data from phone lines, RF or other types of
transmissions.
[0056] Authenticate the received data is valid for the
transceiver.
[0057] Separate data and commands structure packets buffering each
for proper inclusion and execution.
[0058] Assemble the data in the proper form and sequence for
download to the transceiver.
[0059] Strobe an LED indicator 24 when a complete valid download
exists.
[0060] Message and command memory being savable in the event of a
power loss or failure.
[0061] Contain sufficient memory of various types to properly store
at least two complete unique downloads, including, for example, a
generic download message, provide any buffering, and an operational
code area.
[0062] Receive, load, and change to alternate downloaded
information such as different scrolling rates, different messages,
uploading and/or upgrading the operating system and the like.
[0063] Automatic switching between transmitted message downloads on
a time-based command.
[0064] Continuous transmitting of the Infrared data stream on
external command.
[0065] Adjust the clock time with a received command.
[0066] Store and load cap codes with a time-based command.
[0067] Store and change frequency with a time-based command.
[0068] One of ordinary skill in the art would be able to program
such commands and functions without any undue experimentation.
[0069] 5. Power Supply
[0070] In one implantation, the transceiver 10 may also include a
rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery "B" capable of operating
the transceiver and components thereof. In one implementation, the
battery may operate the components of the transceiver for about
seventy-two hours continuously. The LED indicator 24 may be
designed to indicate the battery is in need of charging when not
more than eight hours of operation remain. Of course, other time
limits may also be programmed to begin the strobe.
[0071] In an alternate embodiment, the transceiver may work on a
110 V AC power supply source. In this implementation, the
transceiver 10 is preferably a single source fixed transceiver.
[0072] 6. Protected Port Connector
[0073] In one implantation, the transceiver 10 may also include a
protected port connector 26 to allow the initial parameters (i.e.,
cap code, receiver frequency, and real time clock) to be viewed and
entered, and also allow the various message buffers to be loaded or
downloaded. The port speed will be fixed 115,200 bits per second,
in one implementation.
Passive Display Device
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 2, the display device or unit is shown
as reference numeral 30 and is preferably a passive display device,
having no interactive buttons or commands for the user. The display
device 30, in one implementation, will operate and remain within
specifications over a temperature range of at least 32.degree. F.
(0.degree. C.) to 105.degree. F. (40.degree. C.). The display
device 30 need not operate but will be capable of surviving with no
damage through temperatures of at least -4.degree. F. (-20.degree.
C.) to 140.degree. F. (+60.degree. C.) with no special handling.
The materials for the display device 30 are also designed to be
water resistant. The materials contemplated for use with the
display device 30 to achieve the desired operational conditions may
include, for example, engineering thermoplastics, gasketed metals,
ultrasonic welding processes and other suitable materials and
assemblies.
[0075] The display device 30 includes the hardware sections or
combination thereof as described below. The display device is a
passive display which receives transmitted information from the
transceiver, for example. In one implementation, the display device
does not include input user controls; however, the display device
may include a transmitter for message verification as well as
motion sensors and switches.
[0076] 1. Logic or Central Processing Unit (CPU)/Motion Sensor
[0077] The display device 30 includes a logic or CPU/motion sensor
32 to implement functions of motion detection and power switching,
loading the RAM, to provide UART (universal asynchronous
receiver-transmitter) services for the asynchronous data from the
receiver, and to provide scrolled data for the display unit,
preferably an LCD display unit. The contents of the message memory
may be composed of at least 6400 characters scrolled at a rate so
that the entire message is displayed in 12 minutes, for example.
However, other scrolling rates and the like are also contemplated
by the invention and the illustrative example above should not be
considered a limiting feature.
[0078] In one implementation, the UART function is designed to
receive infrared data at an effective rate of 115,220 bits per
second. When the receiver/UART senses data at the established
communications rate, the display may cease, if it is active, while
the download occurs. This received data packet, if free of errors,
will be directly loaded in the display memory. When a successful
download is received the unit will then ignore any erroneous data
input and immediately begin displaying the message. After the
initial transmission has stopped the display device will again be
enabled to receive another download.
[0079] The CPU may also include an anti-theft device 32a which will
prevent theft of the shopping cart or other mobile material
handling unit. The anti-theft device 32a may include a sound alarm
or light display or circuitry for activating external devices such
as an external wheel-locking mechanism which is activated when the
shopping cart or other mobile material handling unit is moved
beyond a determined range from a central station or beacon, as is
well known in the art of anti-theft devices. For example, the
anti-theft device may include a receiver or GPS which will activate
an alarm when it no longer receives a signal from a central station
or is known to be beyond a certain perimeter. The anti-theft system
may also use RF triangulation methods, and may also communicate
with the RF system "P" of the retail environment.
[0080] In one specific implementation, the CPU may be used to
process messages received by RF circuitry, control the LCD or other
type of display, including generation message transitions and
manage the system's power consumption.
[0081] In one implementation, a Texas Instrument MSP430 series
microprocessor, specifically targeted at ultra-low power
applications is provided. This device has a 16 bit RISC
architecture capable of 1MIPS performance at a supply current of
only 200 uA (max). In addition, its supply current is reduced to
only 2.8 uA (max) while in low power, time keeping mode.
[0082] In implementations, the CPU may spend the majority of its
time in low power, timekeeping mode in which all peripherals are
shutdown except for a single counter and the 32 kHz oscillator. In
this mode, the processor will wake up via an interrupt each time
the counter overflows, perform a time check, and go back to sleep.
This time-check can be used to query the RF link for message
updates at a desired time interval.
[0083] Alternatively, a motion detector may be provided such that
when it is activated, it will generate a separate interrupt that
will cause the CPU to enter the active state. In the active state,
the internal clock speed may be increased to 1 MHz or the like via
an onboard, digitally controlled oscillator, for example. The
processor will remain in the active mode and drive the display as
long as the motion sensor continues to generate interrupts. If the
microprocessor is not interrupted by the sensor within a
predetermined timeout (e.g., 30 seconds), it will shut-off the
display and transition back into low power timekeeping mode.
[0084] 2. Display Module
[0085] The display module 34, preferably an LCD display module, in
one implementation, is a 40-character single line display in a
5.times.7 dot matrix. The display may also be, for example, a
multiple line display depending on the particular application. The
LCD display, in one implementation, is a non-backlit LCD. The
display module 34 is driven by an LCD controller, which is an
interface between the LCD display and the CPU. The display is
designed for temperature operation from at least 32.degree. F.
(0.degree. C.) to 105.degree. F. (40.degree. C.), and is UV and
water resistant. In an alternative embodiment, the display screen
may be, for example, a graphic display such as a plasma display
screen, an organic light emitting diode (LED) display or active
matrix LCD display.
[0086] The display module 34 will receive display information from
the CPU 32 and display them, as should be known to those of
ordinary skill in the art. For example, the display module may
include a loop display, in which the information (many messages or
a single message) may be scrolled on the display screen a
predetermined amount of times. The information may also be
displayed on the screen in other formats. For example, the
information may be displayed from left to right, vertically, up
and/or down, in a starburst fashion and the like.
[0087] In one implementation, the display is updated via an RF
link, as discussed throughout. A motion sensor may also be used to
activate and deactivate the display, e.g., the display will be
automatically turned off within 5 seconds if an additional sensor
interrupt is not detected (for power savings).
[0088] The display module 34, in one implementation, is fitted with
an easily changeable protective cover 36 made from, for example,
transparent engineering thermoplastics, that would serve to absorb
scratches, blows, and other environmental damage protecting the LCD
unit. This may be a snap-on cover, a self adhesive cover or a cover
attached by screws or other known mechanical fasteners.
[0089] 3. Receiver
[0090] In one implementation, the display device 30 may include an
infrared (or RF) receiver 38 to communicate at an effective data
rate of 115,200 bits per second and which is sufficiently sensitive
to establish an error-free transmission at a distance of 18 inches.
Error-free in this case is defined to mean an averaged Bit Error
Rate (BER) of less than three errors in one million bits. The RF
receiver may communicate at an effective data rate of about 5,000
to 10,000 bits per second and is sensitive to establish an
error-free transmission at a distance of about up to at least 300
yards. The receiver 38 will receive information from the
transmitter of the transceiver.
[0091] The receiver may also be an RF receiver used to receive
broadcast message, i.e., information updates. These updates, if
applicable, will be stored by the microprocessor in EEPROM for
later retrieval, as needed. The CPU will communicate to the
receiver using the same SPI interface used to talk to the EEPROM.
This circuitry may be based on RF designs using Micrel
Semiconductor RF transceivers, for example.
[0092] The receiver 38 may be installed with the appropriate
filter(s) 40 in order to ensure that certain words or phrases
(profanities) cannot be used with the display. A filter may also be
used to filter out infrared noise such as various types of light
sources, for example. These are known software and hardware
filters, for example.
[0093] 4. Power Source Module
[0094] In one implementation, the display device 30 also includes a
power source module 42. The power source module 42 may be
implemented with a battery (rechargeable or non rechargeable),
photocell or other charging device, and is designed to continually
supply power to the display and accompanying components. The
battery may be easily replaced and may be accessed via a tool or
keyway 44.
[0095] The power source module 42 will serve as a power
distribution point. A sleep command may also be implemented to turn
the device off in order to conserve energy and battery life, if
applicable, when the device is not in use. This may be implemented
by a motion detector in the CPU, for example, or any well known
timer. For example, if the display is mounted to a cart, the
display may be activated, automatically, by movement of the cart,
via a motion sensor.
Additional Implementations
[0096] FIG. 4 shows additional implementations of the invention. In
this embodiment, the computer "C" may receive and download
information from a remote location 11 such as the internet, via
email, telephone, cell phone or other remote devices. There thus
may be a web interface with the system of the invention. This
transmission may also include receipt of information via RF, paging
technologies or other transmissions. This downloaded information
may also be received from an intranet such as LAN or WAN, for
instance. This downloaded information may then be transmitted to
the transceiver 10 at a fixed location or the passive display unit
within a retail environment such as within a store, via a radio
frequency (RF) transmitter broadcasts at a high RF frequency (e.g.,
400 to 900 MHz). It should be understood that the transceiver may
be a unit located within the computer, itself. This is accomplished
by having an RF transmitter "T" associated with the computer "C",
implemented in a known manner.
[0097] The transceiver will then broadcast this signal, via RF, to
the display device 30. The signal may also be transmitted via
technologies such as infrared, paging or other known transmission
types. The display device, instead of or in conjunction with the IR
receiver, will have an RF receiver in order to receive the signal.
The RF signal, much like the IR signal or other transmission
medium, will then be converted, in a known manner, into an output
signal which can then be displayed on the display screen. In one
embodiment, the receiver of the passive display unit will receive
and decode Flex Protocol as defined within the Flex Protocol
Version G1.9 dated Mar. 16, 1998.
[0098] The computer "C", may include code stored in a solid state
Compact Flash card, with no moving parts for storage. The software
may include the following responsibilities, as can be implemented
by a programmer of ordinary skill:
[0099] Periodically connect to a local ISP (internet service
provider) number and establish an internet connection.
[0100] Maintain and use a list of alternate dialup numbers in case
the main number does not work.
[0101] Synchronize time with a centrally located server at the
start of each polling cycle.
[0102] Establish an authenticated and encrypted secure
communications channel back to the centralized site using
TCP/IP.
[0103] Exchange data with the central server to acquire new
information to be broadcast.
[0104] Exchange data with the central server to report back errors
or other conditions of note.
[0105] Exchange data with the central server to be instructed about
when to poll for new data again.
[0106] Disconnect from the central server, disconnect from the
local ISP.
[0107] Maintain a facility to allow direct dial-in access from
another modem, and do this in a secure fashion. Unix shell access
will be the interface provided at this stage.
[0108] Continually perform the following loop with the saved
current set of messages:
[0109] Go through each message in the saved message loop one by
one;
[0110] Evaluate each message to review whether it is current given
the current time and date; and
[0111] If it is still current, packetize it and send it to the RF
transmitter unit.
[0112] The features shown in FIG. 4 may equally be used with the
features shown in FIGS. 1-3.
[0113] In addition, it should be understood that the computer "C"
may be eliminated at the retail environment level and that paging,
RF or other transmission technologies may be downloaded from a
remote location directly to the display unit. This may be
accomplished by using a paging tower, cellular tower using known
technologies such as CDMA, which would then transmit the
information directly to the display unit. These transmission
technologies may be considered as the transceiver.
Method of Using the System of the Invention
[0114] The system of the invention may be used with a shopping cart
in order to display messages to a consumer during the shopping
experience. In one implementation, as shown in FIG. 3, the display
unit may be integrated into the handle of a shopping cart.
[0115] In one illustrative example, the transceiver may be
preprogrammed with a message via a computer download with computer
"C". The computer "C" may have an infrared communication port or a
feed to program the transceiver. Alternatively, an RF signal may be
used to program the transceiver, whether it is a fixed or mobile
device. The message is programmed either via an infrared
communication or a port or RF signal, for example. Once the
download is complete, the transceiver is then used to program the
display unit to scroll a message. Several messages may be
downloaded and stored within the memory of the display device.
These several messages may be displayed in sequence, or a single
message may be repeated, or any combination thereof.
[0116] The display may be activated upon movement of the shopping
cart or be preset on a timer. In the former scenario, once the
consumer moves the cart, the display will be activated. The display
may include, for example, advertisements or other useful
information for the user such as promotional information.
[0117] In one implementation, the use of the display unit will not
interfere with any electronics within the store since it is
self-contained. The transceiver, for instance, will be used in
fairly close proximity to the display unit and more specifically
the receiver of the display, itself. The transceiver is also
programmed via the computer system. Messages can be intermittently
or regularly changed via the method described above.
[0118] While the invention has been described in terms of
embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the
invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and
scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *