U.S. patent application number 15/829332 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-29 for gang charger, shroud, and dock for portable electronic devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is InVue Security Products Inc.. Invention is credited to Joshua Abdollahzadeh, John A. Buchanan, Antonios L. Karagiannis, Matthew Thomas Kerley, Larry T. McKinney, Jonathon D. Phillips, Mark D. Reeves, Darin J. Shaw, Scott M. Speck, Daniel C. Symons, Erik L. van Bergen.
Application Number | 20180087710 15/829332 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58424311 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180087710 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Phillips; Jonathon D. ; et
al. |
March 29, 2018 |
GANG CHARGER, SHROUD, AND DOCK FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Abstract
An anti-theft device for protecting a portable electronic device
from theft or unauthorized removal in a retail environment is
provided. The anti-theft device includes a shroud configured to at
least partially receive and engage a portable electronic device.
The anti-theft device also includes a dock configured to releasably
engage the shroud. The dock is configured to engage the shroud in a
locked configuration so as to prevent removal of the shroud and the
portable electronic device from the dock and to disengage the
shroud in an unlocked configuration so as to allow the shroud and
the portable electronic device to be removed from the dock.
Inventors: |
Phillips; Jonathon D.; (Fort
Mill, SC) ; Karagiannis; Antonios L.; (Charlotte,
NC) ; Reeves; Mark D.; (Fort Mill, SC) ;
Kerley; Matthew Thomas; (Fort Mill, SC) ; Buchanan;
John A.; (Indian Land, SC) ; Symons; Daniel C.;
(Waxhaw, NC) ; Shaw; Darin J.; (Waxhaw, NC)
; Abdollahzadeh; Joshua; (Denver, NC) ; Speck;
Scott M.; (Indian Trail, NC) ; van Bergen; Erik
L.; (Waxhaw, NC) ; McKinney; Larry T.;
(Huntersville, NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
InVue Security Products Inc. |
Charlotte |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58424311 |
Appl. No.: |
15/829332 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15510929 |
Mar 13, 2017 |
9845912 |
|
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PCT/US16/54412 |
Sep 29, 2016 |
|
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15829332 |
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62234730 |
Sep 30, 2015 |
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62278786 |
Jan 14, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 21/84 20130101;
G06F 21/00 20130101; G08B 13/14 20130101; H05K 5/02 20130101; G06F
1/1635 20130101; H05K 7/18 20130101; E05B 73/0082 20130101; F16M
11/041 20130101; F16M 11/04 20130101; E05B 47/00 20130101; F16M
11/10 20130101; G06F 1/1607 20130101; G06F 21/87 20130101; H05K
5/03 20130101; F16M 11/2014 20130101; H02B 1/01 20130101; H02J
7/0045 20130101; G08B 13/149 20130101; G06F 1/16 20130101; G06F
21/88 20130101; H02J 7/0044 20130101; E05B 65/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F16M 11/04 20060101
F16M011/04; H05K 7/18 20060101 H05K007/18; H05K 5/03 20060101
H05K005/03; G06F 21/87 20130101 G06F021/87; G06F 1/16 20060101
G06F001/16; H02B 1/01 20060101 H02B001/01; G08B 13/14 20060101
G08B013/14; G06F 21/84 20130101 G06F021/84 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. An anti-theft device for securing a portable electronic device
from unauthorized removal or theft, the anti-theft device
comprising: a shroud configured to at least partially receive and
engage a portable electronic device; and a dock configured to
releasably engage the shroud, the dock configured to engage the
shroud in a locked configuration so as to prevent removal of the
shroud and the portable electronic device from the dock and to
disengage the shroud in an unlocked configuration so as to allow
the shroud and the portable electronic device to be removed from
the dock, wherein the dock is configured to disengage the shroud in
response to receiving a command at the portable electronic
device.
22. The anti-theft device of claim 21, further comprising a mobile
payment interface pivotably coupled to the shroud for moving
between an open position and a closed position, the mobile payment
interface configured to operably couple to a mobile payment
device.
23. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the shroud comprises
a wireless communications interface configured to communicate and
be paired with the portable electronic device.
24. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the dock is
configured to communicate power and/or data signals with the
portable electronic device.
25. The anti-theft device of claim 21, further comprising at least
one adapter configured to releasably engage an input port on the
portable electronic device, wherein the shroud is configured to at
least partially receive and engage the portable electronic device
for establishing electrical communication with the at least one
adapter, and wherein the dock is configured to be in electrical
communication with the portable electronic device via the at least
one adapter.
26. The anti-theft device of claim 21, further comprising a mobile
payment interface coupled to the shroud, the mobile payment
interface configured to operably couple to a mobile payment
device.
27. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the mobile payment
interface is removably attached to the shroud.
28. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the mobile payment
interface is attached to the shroud via a hinge for moving between
an open position and a closed position relative to the shroud.
29. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the dock is
configured to transfer power to both the shroud and the mobile
payment interface when the shroud is engaged with the dock.
30. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the dock is
configured to communicate power and/or data signals with the
portable electronic device and the mobile payment device.
31. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the shroud is
configured to rotate relative to the dock about three axes of
rotation.
32. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the shroud is
configured to be removably attached to the portable electronic
device.
33. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the dock is
configured to disengage the shroud in response to communication
with an electronic key.
34. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the dock comprises
an alarm configured to be activated in response to unauthorized
removal of the portable electronic device and/or the shroud from
the dock.
35. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the dock comprises
an alarm configured to be activated in response to unauthorized
removal of the dock from a support surface.
36. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the dock is
configured to disengage the shroud in response to receiving a
command at the portable electronic device via a software
application on the portable electronic device.
37. A method for securing a portable electronic device from
unauthorized removal or theft, the method comprising: positioning a
portable electronic device within a shroud; positioning the shroud
and the portable electronic device on a dock such that the shroud
and the portable electronic device are locked to the dock; and
inputting a command at the portable electronic device to cause the
dock to unlock the shroud from the dock.
38. The method of claim 37, further comprising moving a mobile
payment interface coupled to the shroud to an open position.
39. The method of claim 37, further comprising wirelessly pairing
the shroud with the portable electronic device.
40. The method of claim 37, further comprising operably coupling a
mobile payment device to a mobile payment interface coupled to the
shroud for communicating power and/or data signals with the dock.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/510,929 filed on Mar. 13, 2017, which is a national phase
entry of International Application No. PCT/US2016/054412, filed
Sep. 29, 2016, which claims the benefit to priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/234,730 filed on Sep. 30,
2015, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/278,786 filed
on Jan. 14, 2016, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to
anti-theft devices, systems, gang chargers, docks, shrouds, and
methods for protecting portable electronic devices from theft.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A recent trend in work and retail store environments is to
use smart devices, sometimes cellphones, but more often tablets, as
customer service devices. This usage takes on two forms. One form
is using a tablet as a kiosk where customers can interact with the
device. This may be used to deliver information about the
establishment or its products to the consumer, or to act as an
interface for customer loyalty programs in lieu of plastic cards. A
second usage is for retail store associates to carry such a device
around the store to assist customers. The associate may use the
device to display a layout of the store to show a customer where an
item is, check on a price of an item, or access information
regarding a product the customer is buying. In some stores, tablets
are being used to check-out customers. Restaurants may use smart
devices at a table for ordering or game playing. Hospitals may
allow doctors and nurses to carry smart devices for mobile access
to patient health charts.
[0004] This trend may require the customer, store associate or
employee to leave the smart device unattended for a period of time
to perform other tasks. Thus, there is a need for an anti-theft
device for protecting a portable electronic device from theft,
while allowing a sufficient level of user interaction with the
portable electronic device.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an
anti-theft device for securing a portable electronic device from
unauthorized removal or theft, wherein the anti-theft includes a
shroud configured to at least partially receive and engage a
portable electronic device; an EMV interface pivotably coupled to
the shroud for moving between an open position and a closed
position; and a dock configured to releasably engage the shroud.
The EMV interface is further configured to operably couple to an
EMV reader.
[0006] In another embodiment, an anti-theft device for securing a
portable electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is
provided. The anti-theft device includes a shroud configured to at
least partially receive and engage a portable electronic device; an
EMV interface electrically coupled to the shroud and configured to
operably couple to an EMV reader; and a dock configured to
releasably engage the shroud.
[0007] According to another embodiment, a method for securing a
portable electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is
provided. The method includes positioning a portable electronic
device within the shroud; positioning the shroud and the portable
electronic device on a dock such that the shroud and the portable
electronic device are locked to the dock; and moving an EMV
interface coupled to the shroud to an open position.
[0008] In one embodiment, a gang charger for providing power to a
plurality of portable electronic devices is provided. The gang
charger includes a plurality of shrouds each configured to at least
partially receive and engage one of the plurality of portable
electronic devices; a stand comprising a plurality of shelves, each
shelf configured to receive and engage one of the plurality of
shrouds; and a lock mechanism for locking each of the shrouds to a
respective shelf.
[0009] In another embodiment, a method for providing power to a
plurality of portable electronic devices is provided. The method
includes inserting each of the plurality of portable electronic
devices into engagement with a respective shroud; and positioning
each of the shrouds on a respective shelf such that each of the
shrouds locks to a respective shelf with a lock mechanism.
[0010] In another embodiment, an anti-theft device for securing a
portable electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is
provided. The anti-theft device includes at least one adapter
configured to releasably engage an input port on a portable
electronic device; a shroud configured to at least partially
receive and engage the portable electronic device for establishing
electrical communication with the at least one adapter; and a dock
configured to releasably engage the shroud, the dock being in
electrical communication with the portable electronic device via
the at least one adapter.
[0011] In one embodiment, an anti-theft device for securing a
portable electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is
provided. The anti-theft device includes a shroud configured to at
least partially receive and engage a portable electronic device;
and a dock configured to releasably engage the shroud, the dock
configured to engage the shroud in a locked configuration so as to
prevent removal of the shroud and the portable electronic device
from the dock and to disengage the shroud in an unlocked
configuration so as to allow the shroud and the portable electronic
device to be removed from the dock.
[0012] In another embodiment, an anti-theft device for protecting a
portable electronic device from theft or unauthorized removal in a
retail environment is provided. The anti-theft device includes a
shroud configured to at least partially receive and engage a
portable electronic device. The shroud includes a wireless
communications interface that is configured to communicate and be
paired with the portable electronic device. The anti-theft device
also includes a dock configured to releasably engage the shroud.
The dock is configured to engage the shroud in a locked
configuration so as to prevent removal of the shroud and the
portable electronic device from the dock and to disengage the
shroud in an unlocked configuration so as to allow the shroud and
the portable electronic device to be removed from the dock.
[0013] In one embodiment, an anti-theft device for securing a
portable electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is
provided. The anti-theft device includes a shroud configured to at
least partially receive and engage a portable electronic device,
the shroud comprising a wireless communications interface
configured to communicate and be paired with the portable
electronic device. The anti-theft device also includes a dock
configured to releasably engage the shroud, the dock configured to
engage the shroud in a locked configuration so as to prevent
removal of the shroud and the portable electronic device from the
dock and to disengage the shroud in an unlocked configuration so as
to allow the shroud and the portable electronic device to be
removed from the dock.
[0014] In one embodiment, a method for securing a portable
electronic device from unauthorized removal or theft is provided.
The method includes positioning a portable electronic device within
the shroud, the shroud comprising a wireless communications
interface configured to communicate and be paired with the portable
electronic device. The method also includes positioning the shroud
and the portable electronic device on a dock such that the shroud
and the portable electronic device are locked to the dock.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates an anti-theft device according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a dock and shroud shown in
FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the dock shown in
FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the dock shown in FIG.
1.
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates embodiment rear perspective view of the
dock shown in FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a shroud and a hub
member according to one embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates the shroud and a hub member of FIG.
6.
[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an anti-theft
device according to another embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a rear perspective view of the anti-theft
device shown in FIG. 8.
[0024] FIG. 10 illustrates a shroud and a handle according to one
embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 11 illustrates a gang charger according to one
embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of the gang charger of
FIG.11.
[0027] FIG. 13 illustrates a gang charger according to one
embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 14 illustrates a rear perspective view of a dock
according to one embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 15 illustrates an enlarged view of the dock shown in
FIG. 14.
[0030] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a dock according
to one embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 17 illustrates a plan view of a shroud with an EMV
interface according to one embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 18 illustrates a plan view of the shroud that is
opposite to the plan view shown in FIG. 17.
[0033] FIG. 19 illustrates an end view of the shroud shown in FIG.
17.
[0034] FIG. 20 illustrates a partial view of a shroud with an EMV
interface according to one embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a hinge
connection according to one embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 22 illustrates a shroud with a hinge connected to an
EMV interface in each of a closed position, partially open
position, and an open position according to one embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 23 illustrates an enlarged view of a shroud with a
hinge connected to an EMV interface in each of a closed position,
partially open position, and an open position according to one
embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an adapter
according to one embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 25 illustrates another perspective view of the adapter
shown in FIG. 24.
[0040] FIG. 26 illustrates the adapters of FIG. 24 prior to
connection with a portable electronic device.
[0041] FIG. 27 illustrates the portable electronic device connected
to the adapters of FIG. 24 prior to engagement with a shroud
according to one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0042] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawing
figures wherein identical reference numerals denote the same or
similar parts, elements, components, assemblies, subassemblies or
the like throughout the various views. The attached drawing figures
show exemplary embodiments of an anti-theft device 10 for
protecting a portable electronic device 15, for example, a tablet,
against theft or unauthorized removal. As used herein, the term
"tablet" is intended to include without limitation all types of
portable, personal computers, for example, laptop, notebook,
mini-notebook, sub-notebook and netbook type computers, as well as
personal data assistant (PDA) and personal mobile communications
(e.g., cell phone) type devices. The anti-theft device 10 may be
suitable for use by customers or employees, such as a retail store
associate, a teacher, a nurse, a doctor, a maintenance worker, or
an airline pilot/attendant, in a variety of locations and
environments.
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a portable electronic device 15, and in
particular a tablet, for use with an anti-theft device 10 according
to the invention. In one embodiment, the anti-theft device 10
includes a shroud 20, frame, sleeve, or the like that is configured
to be attached to the portable electronic device 15 (see, e.g.,
FIGS. 1-2). The shroud 20 is configured to at least partially
receive and surround the portable electronic device 15. According
to one embodiment, the shroud 20 comprises a first portion 24 and a
second portion 28 that that are configured to engage with one
another (see, e.g., FIGS. 6-7). First portion 24 and second portion
28 of shroud 20 may be made of a formable, substantially rigid
material, such as hard plastic, composite, or thin sheet metal.
First portion 24 includes peripheral sides and a peripheral end
that overlie and enclose the opposite sides and an end of the
portable electronic device 15. Likewise, second portion 28 is
provided with peripheral sides and a peripheral end that overlie
and enclose the opposite sides and the other end of the portable
electronic device 15. First portion 24 and second portion 28 may be
secured together with portable electronic device 15 disposed
therein and contained by the peripheral sides and peripheral ends
by mechanical fasteners. The fasteners may be provided with a
tamper-proof head that requires a customized tool that is not
readily available to others so that the fasteners cannot be easily
removed by a potential thief. Alternatively, the fasteners may be
positioned on the first portion 24 and the second portion 28 so as
to be inaccessible when the shroud 20 containing the portable
electronic device 15 is locked in place on the dock 50, as will be
described.
[0044] As previously mentioned, the anti-theft device 10 may
further include a dock 50, stand, base, or the like for receiving
and supporting the portable electronic device 15. The dock 50 may
be configured to temporarily secure the portable electronic device
15 thereto. In turn, the dock 50 may be configured to be fixed to a
support surface, such as a fixture, a counter, a wall, or the like,
for example, with one or more fasteners and/or adhesive. In some
instances, the portable electronic device 15 is configured to be
readily placed on the dock 50 and removed by an authorized user.
For example, a retail store associate may utilize a portable
electronic device 15 for point-of-sale transactions and wish to
temporarily secure the device against theft or unauthorized
removal. As such, the dock 50 may also be configured to be alarmed,
locked, and/or otherwise secured so that unauthorized persons
cannot remove the portable electronic device 15. In one embodiment,
the dock 50 includes an alarming device (e.g., an alarm and
monitoring electronics) configured to arm when the portable
electronic device 15 is positioned within the dock 50, and to
disarm when the portable electronic device is removed by an
authorized user. The portable electronic device 15 may be operably
engaged with the dock 50 and/or with an alarming device in a
wireless manner (i.e., no tether is required), although wired means
may be used if desired.
[0045] The dock 50 may include various input and/or output
connections 62 for communicating power, data, and/or security
signals with the portable electronic device 15, shroud 20, and/or
dock 50 (see, e.g., FIG. 5). For instance, the dock 50 may include
various data outputs and video outputs, such as for communicating
with one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a keyboard, mouse,
etc.). Moreover, the dock 50 may include one or more data ports
(e.g., USB ports) for communicating with the portable electronic
device 15, such as for receiving data from or providing data to the
portable electronic device 15.
[0046] The dock 50 may include alarm and monitoring electronics for
activating the alarm in the event that the shroud 20 and the
portable electronic device 15 are detached from the dock 50 in an
unauthorized manner The monitoring electronics may be configured to
monitor one or more sensors or switches and to activate an audible
or visible alarm signal in response to a security event. Moreover,
the dock 50 may include a processor or controller that is operably
engaged with the monitoring electronics, a motor, switches, an
alarm, etc.
[0047] FIGS. 3-5 show an embodiment of a dock 50 configured to
support and secure the shroud 20 and portable electronic device 15,
although other shapes and configurations are possible for
supporting a variety of portable electronic devices 15. In this
example, the dock 50 includes a base member 52, a stand member 54,
and an engagement member 56. The base member 52 may be configured
to be secured to a support surface. Moreover, the dock 50 may be
configured to support the portable electronic device 15 in one of a
plurality of desired orientations (e.g., portrait or landscape).
Alternatively, the shroud 20 may be configured to rotate about the
dock 50 so as to be positioned in any desired orientation (e.g.,
rotatable 360 degrees).
[0048] In another embodiment, the shroud 20 may be configured to
have a plurality of degrees of freedom relative to the dock 50. For
example, the shroud 20 may be configured to rotate about at least
two axes of rotation. FIGS. 3-4 show an embodiment where the shroud
20 is configured to rotate about three axes of rotation. In this
regard, the engagement member 56 of the dock 50 may be configured
to rotate about one axis relative to the stand member 54, the base
member 52 of the dock 50 may be configured to rotate about a second
axis relative to the support surface, and the stand member 54 may
be configured to rotate about a third axis relative to the base
member 52. As such, a user is able to readily adjust the position
of the portable electronic device 15 and the dock 50.
[0049] In one embodiment, the engagement member 56 may be
configured to rotate between predetermined stop positions (e.g.,
between portrait and landscape orientations). Thus, in some cases,
the engagement member 56 may be limited to less than a full
rotation relative to the stand member 54. For example, the
engagement member 56 may include a plate 56a having a plurality of
notches 56b formed therein. The stand member 54 may include an
actuator 23 connected to a spring rod 56c. When a user engages and
compresses the actuator 23, the spring rod 56c is configured to
rotate in unison with the plate 56a until the spring rod 56c
encounters and engages with at least one of the plurality of
notches 56b. At this time, rotation of the shroud 20 with respect
to the stand member 54 is prevented until the actuator 23 is
compressed again to prompt rotation of the shroud 20. In some
embodiments, the plurality of notches 56b are disposed at
predetermined 90.degree. intervals thereby limiting each rotational
movement of the shroud 20 to only 90.degree. at a time. In some
embodiments, the shroud 20 is only able to rotate a maximum of
180.degree. with respect to the stand member 54. In one embodiment,
the engagement member 56 may include a conduit engaged with a PCB
contained therein. The conduit may have a centralized port
configured to receive wires/cables routed therethrough. The conduit
allows for the wires/cables to move in unison as the engagement
member 56 rotates thereby preventing the wires/cables from tangling
and/or undergoing undue stress.
[0050] In some embodiments, the stand member 54 may be configured
to pivot relative to the base member 52 between predetermined
angles (see, e.g., FIG. 16), and the base member 52 may be
configured to rotate relative to the support surface between
predetermined angular positions. For example, the stand member 54
may include an angular attachment 54a connected to a plurality of
spaced arm brackets 54b by a fastener 54c. In this example, a pair
of spaced arm brackets 54b are employed. When the stand member 54
is pivoted with respect to the base member 52, the fastener 54c
rides along and symmetrically follows an arc shaped slot 54d formed
in both arm brackets 54b. As the fastener 54c reaches an uppermost
portion of the slot 54d, the stand member 54 is prevented from
pivoting any further. Similarly, as the fastener 54c reaches a
lowermost portion of the slot 54d, the stand member 54 is prevented
from pivoting any further. Additionally, angular attachment 54a may
be positioned between the two arm brackets 54b. Arm brackets 54b
may be angled inwardly towards one another to thereby engage with
the angular attachment 54a. As such, arm brackets 54b may be
configured to act as a friction mechanism thereby adding resistance
between the angular attachment 54a and the arm brackets 54b and
creating a friction fit between the stand member 54 and the base
member 52 in order to maintain the stand member at a desired angle.
The arm brackets 54b create enough resistance to maintain the stand
member 54 at a desired angle with respect to the base member 52,
but the resistance is able to be overcome to move the stand member
54, but not allowing the stand member 54 to move freely with
respect to the base member 52.
[0051] In some embodiments, the base member 52 includes an upper
base member 52a and a lower base member 52b wherein the upper base
member 52a is configured to rotate relative to the lower base
member 52b. In this instance, the lower base member 52b is
stationary with respect to the upper base member 52a and the
support surface. As such, an input and/or output connection 62
contained in the lower base member 52b may be configured to be
stationary and fixed in one direction. In some embodiments, one or
more input and/or output connections 62 may be located on an outer
surface of the lower base member 52b, and the lower base member 52b
may include one or more slots formed in a bottom surface thereof
such that wires and/or cables extending from the input and/or
output connections 62 may be routed and extended through an opening
formed in the support surface. This allows for a clean and
presentable look wherein wires and/or cables are hidden from
view.
[0052] In some embodiments, the shroud 20 may include a hub member
22 or other engagement member 56 that is configured to mate with a
corresponding engagement member 56 of the dock 50. The hub member
22 may be releasably attached to the shroud 20 in some cases such
that the hub member 22 may be attached and detached from the shroud
20 (e.g., via one or more proprietary fasteners). Thus, the hub
member 22 may be adaptable to various types of shrouds 20 in some
embodiments. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-7, the hub member
22 may have a "dovetail" shape that is configured to engage a
corresponding engagement member 56 having a similar dovetail shape.
The hub member 22 may be configured to releasably engage the
engagement member 56, such as in a snap fit, and be locked to the
dock 50 as explained in further detail below. For example, FIG. 3
shows that the engagement member 56 may include a lock mechanism 58
configured to engage the hub member 22 in a locked
configuration.
[0053] In some embodiments, the hub member 22 may be configured to
allow the shroud 20 to rotate when the shroud 20 is not positioned
on the dock 50. For example, the hub member 22 may include an inner
plate 22a concentric with an outer plate 22b (see FIG. 18) wherein
rotation of outer plate 22b with respect to the inner plate 22a
causes the shroud 20 to rotate. The inner plate 22a and/or the
outer plate 22b may include a plurality of detents which
facilitates "soft" intermittent stops as the shroud 20 rotates. In
this regard, a user can remove the shroud 20 from the dock 50 and
readily adjust the position of the portable electronic device 15 in
a portrait, landscape, or other orientation as needed. In one
embodiment, the inner plate 22a and/or the outer plate 22b may
include at least one detent at the "home` position which indicates
a "hard" stop thereby allowing the shroud 20 to be in position for
docking.
[0054] In some embodiments, the hub member 22 may also be
configured to house various electronic components, such as
circuitry or printed circuit board, a wireless communications
interface, data input and/or outputs, an alarm, and/or a power
source. For example, the hub member 22 may include a Bluetooth
module configured to be paired with and communicate with the
portable electronic device 15, as also explained in further detail
below. The data input and/or outputs may allow for interfacing with
one or more peripheral devices. In some cases, the hub member 22
may be configured to engage one or more accessories. In some
embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 18 an outer plate 22b of the
hub member 22 may include apertures 22c configured to be engaged
with a handle 32. Handle 32 allows a user the flexibility of using
the portable electronic device 15 removed from the dock. Moreover,
the shroud 20 and/or hub member 22 may include an alarm for
generating an audible and/or a visible signal. In some cases, the
system 10 may leverage the portable electronic device 15 for
generating an alarm signal, such by emitting an alarm signal via a
speaker in the tablet.
[0055] In other embodiments, the shroud 20 may be configured to
accommodate one or more accessories. For instance, FIGS. 8-9 show
that the shroud 20 may include a mobile payment terminal interface,
such as an EMV interface 44, for receiving a mobile payment device
or terminal, such as an EMV reader 45. The EMV interface 44 may be
integrally formed with the shroud 20 in some cases, or the EMV
interface 44 may be attached to the shroud 20. For example, the EMV
interface 44 may be pivotally attached to the shroud 44 with a
hinge 46 such that the EMV interface 44 may be moved between use
and non-use states. As shown in FIG. 9, the shroud 20 may define a
recess 48 that is configured to receive the EMV reader 45 in a
non-use position. When a user desires to use the EMV reader 45, the
EMV reader 45 may be readily pivoted out of the recess 48. The EMV
interface 44 is configured to interface with any number of EMV
readers 45, although in some cases, the EMV interface 44 may be
customized for a particular type of EMV reader 45. In some
embodiments, the EMV interface 44 may be removably attached to the
shroud 20 and may be interchangeable with another different EMV
interface 44. Thus, the shroud 20 may be configured to accommodate
different types of EMV readers 45. In addition, the dock 50 may be
configured to accommodate any type of portable electronic device
15, shroud 20, and/or EMV reader 45. The EMV interface 44 may be
configured to receive and engage the EMV reader, such as in a snap
fit. The EMV interface 44 may also include an actuator 44a such as
a micro-switch, wherein the actuator 44a is configured to detect if
the EMV reader 45 is engaged with the EMV interface 44. The
actuator 44a may facilitate communication with the EMV interface
44, such as to enable power and/or data to be transferred to the
EMV reader 45 when the EMV reader is disposed within the EMV
interface 44 and to disable power and/or data transfer to the EMV
reader 45 when the EMV reader 45 is removed from the EMV interface
44.
[0056] In some embodiments, the EMV interface 44 may be configured
to be secured in an open or use position and a closed or non-use
position (see, e.g., FIG. 22). For instance, the hinge 46 may
include a holding mechanism 80 configured to bias and/or hold the
EMV interface 44 in the open position such that the EMV interface
44 will not move to the closed position without applying a
predetermined amount of force. In other words, the EMV interface 44
will remain in the open position during use without user
intervention. Similarly, the holding mechanism 80 may be configured
to bias and/or hold the EMV interface 44 in the closed position. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the holding mechanism 80 and hinge
46 may include one or more detents 82 configured to engage one
another in the open and closed positions. When the hinge 46 is
between the open and closed positions, the detents 82 are not in
engagement with one another, and the hinge 46 is freely rotatably
relative to the shroud 20. Thus, when the detents 82 mate with and
engage one another, the detents 82 are configured to hold the EMV
interface 44 in an open or closed position. The holding force
between the detents 82 may be overcome by rotating the EMV
interface 44 whereby the detents 82 are configured to cam against
one another for allowing the EMV interface 44 to rotate relative to
the hinge 46.
[0057] In one embodiment, the hinge 46 may facilitate an electrical
connection between the shroud 20 and the EMV interface 44. In this
regard, one or more electrical conductors 49 (e.g., wires) may be
configured to be routed between a PCB 47 located within the hub
member 22 and a PCB 47 located within the EMV interface 44 (see,
e.g., FIGS. 20-21). In this way, no wires are visible and do not
interfere with the operation or handling of the shroud 20. In
addition, the electrical conductors 49 undergo limited stress due
to the conductors 49 extending along the axis of the hinge 46. For
example, the hinge 46 may be hollow and allow one or more wires 49
to be routed therethough, while the ends of the wire(s) are
electrically connected to the PCBs 47 in the EMV interface 44 and
the hub member 22. Additionally, in some embodiments, the shroud 20
may include slots defined therein such that conductors may be
routed therethrough and connected directly to the portable
electronic device 15 housed within the shroud 20. In some
embodiments, conductors may be configured to be routed through the
slots and then routed through the hinge 46 to facilitate an
electrical connection with the EMV interface 44. The electrical
connection between the PCBs 47 may allow the EMV reader 45 to be
charged and/or transfer data while the shroud 20 is engaged with
the dock 50. As shown in FIG. 17, the EMV interface 44 may include
one or more electrical contacts 51 for facilitating such an
electrical connection, while the shroud 20 may include a connector
53 (see FIG. 20) configured to engage an associated connector 55 on
the dock 50 (see, e.g., FIG. 15). The engagement member 56 may be
sized and configured to receive the hub member 22 in a sliding
engagement such that the connectors 53, 55 align and engage one
another when the shroud 20 is seated on the dock 50.
[0058] The dock 50 may include a mechanical mechanism or sensor,
such as a pressure or plunger switch, operably engaged with the
alarm and monitoring electronics that is configured to activate in
response to engagement and disengagement with the portable
electronic device 15 and/or the shroud 20. Likewise, the dock 50
may include a mechanical mechanism or sensor 63 that is configured
to sense if the dock 50 has been removed from a support surface in
an unauthorized manner The mechanical mechanism or sensor 63 may
also be configured to carry out other functions as detailed below.
The authorized user may utilize a key, pass code, RFID, or the like
to unlock the portable electronic device 15 and shroud 20 from the
dock 50 and/or to disarm the alarm and monitoring electronics.
[0059] In some cases, the shroud 20 may only be unlocked when the
engagement member 56 is in a predetermined location, which may be
referred to as the "home" position, see, e.g., FIGS. 14-15. Thus,
should the engagement member 56 be rotated away from the "home"
position, the shroud 20 may not be able to be removed from the dock
50, which may be due to the inability of a lock mechanism 58 to be
actuated in particular positions. In one embodiment, the dock 50
may include a sensing device (e.g., a mechanical switch) that is
configured to detect the rotational position of the engagement
member 56 relative to the stand member 54. For instance, a
mechanical switch may be configured to be actuated when the
engagement member 56 is not in the home position, while the switch
is not actuated when in the home position.
[0060] In some embodiments, the dock 50 is configured to power
and/or charge a portable electronic device 15 that is docked on the
dock 50. In this case, the anti-theft device 10 may include a power
cord (see FIGS. 14 and 16) coupled to the dock 50, inductive
charging functionality, or a contact charging functionality. For
example, the dock 50 may pass power to the portable electronic
device 15 and/or EMV reader 45 via the shroud 20 that is connected
to a power input port of the portable electronic device 15 via a
connector 36. When the shroud 20 is docked on the dock 50, the dock
50 is configured to pass power to the shroud 20, the portable
electronic device 15, and/or the EMV interface 44. An LED or other
signaling device may be used to indicate that the anti-theft device
10 is armed. In addition, the alarm and monitoring electronics may
be configured to generate an alarm signal (e.g., an audible and/or
visible alarm) in response to unauthorized removal of the portable
electronic device 15, shroud 20, and/or EMV reader 45 from the dock
50.
[0061] In one embodiment, FIG. 6 shows a shroud 20 that includes
one or more electrical contact(s) 34 for electrically communicating
with corresponding electrical contact(s) 57 on the dock 50. The
contacts 34 may be located on the hub member 22 in some cases, or
in other embodiments, the contacts 34 may be located on any other
desired location on the shroud 20. The shroud 20 may include a
connector 59 (see, e.g., FIG. 17) for engaging a power and/or input
port on the portable electronic device 15. The shroud 20 may
include one or more electrical conductors 49 (e.g., power and
ground) extending between the contact(s) 34 and the connector 59.
The connector 59 may be any suitable connector configured to engage
a power and/or input port of the portable electronic device 15, for
example a micro-USB or USB-C connector. The electrical conductors
49 between the contacts 34 of the shroud 20 and the corresponding
contacts 57 provided on the dock 50 may also define a detectable
sense loop that is in electrical connection with the monitoring
electronics. Thus, should the shroud 20 be removed from the dock 50
in an unauthorized manner (e.g., without first disarming the
monitoring electronics with a key), the monitoring electronics may
sense the break in the sense loop and generate an alarm signal.
Similarly, the connector 53 may be configured for electrically
connecting to the EMV reader 45 for communicating (e.g., power
and/or data signals) with the portable electronic device 15, shroud
20, and/or dock 50. Moreover, as discussed above, the connectors
53, 55 may facilitate communication with the electronic device 15
and/or EMV reader 45.
[0062] In one embodiment, the shroud 20 may facilitate electrical
communication with the portable electronic device 15 using one or
more adapters 66 (see FIG. 24). For example, the electronic device
15 may include one or more input ports for power and/or data
communication, and in some cases, the electronic device has a
plurality of input ports. In order to facilitate such communication
between the shroud 20 and portable electronic device 15, the
adapter 66 may serve as an interface between the portable
electronic device 15 and the shroud 20. The adapter 66 may be
configured to be inserted within an input port of the portable
electronic device 15 or otherwise electrically connect to the input
port (see, e.g., FIGS. 26-27). The adapter 66 may include one or
more electrical contacts 68 that are configured to align with and
electrically connect to one or more corresponding electrical
contacts 70 within the shroud 20. When the portable electronic
device 15 is engaged with the shroud 20, the electrical contacts
68, 70 are electrically connected to one another thereby
facilitating an electrical connection between the portable
electronic device, the shroud 20, and the dock 50 when the shroud
20 is engaged with the dock 50. For example, the electrical
contacts 70 may be electrically connected to one or more electrical
conductors 49, which may in turn be connected to a PCB within the
shroud 20. Any number of adapters 66 may be employed depending on
the number of input ports on the electronic device 15. In this way,
the number and arrangement of wires routed within the shroud 20 may
be reduced or eliminated, and the electrical contacts 68 on the
adapter 66 and electrical contacts 70 may be sized and configured
to ensure an adequate electrical connection. Moreover, it is
understood that the adapters 66 may employ wireless means in other
embodiments, such as via electrical inductance or wireless
communication (e.g., Bluetooth).
[0063] In some embodiments, the anti-theft device 10 comprises a
lock mechanism 58 for securing the portable electronic device 15 on
the dock 50. The lock mechanism 58 may include any combination of
electrical, magnetic, inductive, and/or mechanical interaction. For
example, the lock mechanism 58 may be configured to automatically
lock when the portable electronic device 15 is positioned onto the
dock 50. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism 58 may be actuated
mechanically and/or electronically, such as via one or more
electrically driven solenoids. For instance, the lock mechanism 58
may include actuator 64 disposed on a portion of the engagement
member 56 that is configured to be actuated in response to
engagement with a solenoid. In this example, the actuator 64 may be
biased towards a locked position such that engagement of the shroud
20 with the dock 50 results in automatically locking the shroud 20
to the dock 50. In order to unlock the shroud 20 from the dock 50,
the solenoid may be activated to engage the actuator 64 to allow
the shroud 20 to be removed from the engagement member 56.
[0064] In order to release the shroud 20 and the portable
electronic device 15 from the dock 50, an authorized user could use
an electronic key or other suitable security means (e.g. a pass
code) to disarm the alarming device (e.g., alarm and monitoring
electronics) and/or disengage the lock mechanism 58. For example,
FIGS. 5 and 14 show that the dock 50 includes a port 60 for
communicating with an electronic key for arming and/or disarming
the alarming device.
[0065] An unlocking feature for removing the portable electronic
device 15 or disarming the alarming device may take many forms,
including those discussed above. One embodiment is an electronic
key utilizing radio frequencies, infrared, or some other electronic
means to communicate with the monitoring electronics of the dock 50
and/or the alarming device to allow the portable electronic device
15 to be released. For example, the dock 50 may include a port 60
for receiving a signal from the electronic key having a unique
identifying code recognizable by the dock 50, but otherwise
unrecognizable by other docks 50 not associated with the code
(e.g., in other departments or stores). In some embodiments, the
portable electronic device 15 can be armed, disarmed, and/or
silenced with the key, which may utilize mechanical, wireless,
and/or electrical communication between the portable electronic
device 15 and the security key. In additional embodiments, the
portable electronic device 15 and/or dock 50 may include near field
communication (NFC) functionality and be configured to communicate
with the key or an alarming device having NFC functionality for
arming and disarming the portable electronic device 15 and/or dock
50. Alternatively, the alarming device may include "screen swipe"
functionality and be configured to sense particular movement or
motion of the portable electronic device 15 and/or the key to arm
or disarm the portable electronic device 15 and/or dock 50.
Likewise, the portable electronic device 15 and/or key may include
biometric functionality for recognizing a particular user to arm or
disarm the portable electronic device 15 and/or dock 50. As
mentioned above, in some embodiments, the dock 50 may include a
mechanical mechanism or sensor 63. In some embodiments, successive
actuations of the mechanical mechanism or sensor 63 within a
predetermined time (e.g., five or more actuations within at least
10 seconds) automatically resets the code or like authorization
information such that a retail store or establishment would need to
reprogram the dock with the prior code, a new code, or like
authorization information.
[0066] As discussed above, the hub member 22 may include a wireless
communications interface for communicating with the portable
electronic device 15. In one embodiment, the hub member 22 includes
a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy module configured to be paired
with and communicate with the portable electronic device 15 via
Bluetooth. For example, the portable electronic device 15 may
include a software application configured to facilitate
communication with the hub member 22 for facilitating locking or
unlocking the lock mechanism 58. Thus, through the use of the
software application, a user may be prompted with an input command,
such as to enter an access code, present a key, provide biometric
identification, etc., which allows the Bluetooth module in the
portable electronic device 15 to communicate with the Bluetooth
module in the hub member 22. An unlock command received by the hub
member 22 may in turn be communicated to the dock 50 to unlock the
lock mechanism 58. The Bluetooth modules may be configured to be
paired to one another when the shroud 20 is placed on the dock 50
such that a portable electronic device 15 and shroud 20 pair may be
used with any dock 50. In some cases, the Bluetooth module and the
hub member 22 are configured to automatically paired together when
the portable electronic device 15 is positioned within the shroud
20, while in other cases, the user may be prompted to initiate
pairing with the shroud 20. In one embodiment, the shroud 20 may
include an actuator (e.g., a push button) to facilitate pairing
between the shroud 20 and the portable electronic device 15. The
shroud 20 may also include an indicator (e.g., an LED) to indicate
that the pairing process is in progress and/or complete. In some
embodiments, the actuator may also be used for other purposes such
as for toggling the alarm mechanism in the dock 50 from an active
mode (e.g., wherein the alarm is configured to generate an audible
and/or visible signal in response to a security event) to a silent
mode (e.g., wherein the alarm will not generate an audible and/or
visual signal but sends a message to an authorized person). In
other embodiments, the software application may facilitate direct
communication between the portable electronic device and the dock
50 using wired connections and without the use of Bluetooth.
[0067] In some embodiments, the hub member 22 includes a wireless
communications interface that is configured to generate a signal
that is detectable by the portable electronic device 15. For
example, the wireless communications interface may function as a
"tower 72" (see FIG. 1) that communicates signals, such as a signal
including an identifier, and the portable electronic device 15 is
configured to detect the signal and be paired with the detected
wireless communications interface and associated shroud 20. The
portable electronic device 15 may be configured to be paired to the
hub member 22 having a particular identifier. The wireless
communications interface may be configured to generate the signal
at any appropriate time, such as upon docking the shroud 20 on the
dock 50. For instance, docking the shroud 20 on the dock 50 may
allow for power to be delivered to the wireless communications
interface for generating detectable signals.
[0068] In some embodiments, the anti-theft device 10 may further
include a "gang charger" 100 configured to receive a plurality of
portable electronic devices 15. As shown in FIG. 11, the gang
charger 100 may include a plurality of shelves 102 for receiving
and supporting a corresponding number of shrouds 20 and portable
electronic devices 15. The gang charger 100 may be configured to
provide power to the portable electronic devices 15. In some cases,
the gang charger 100 may include an engagement member 156 (see FIG.
13) similar to the dock 50 for engaging and electrically connecting
to the shroud 20. For example, each shelf 102 may include a
dovetail engagement member 156 for engaging a similar dovetail hub
member 22 on the shroud 20. The gang charger 100 may be configured
to be mounted to a horizontal support surface or a vertical support
surface, and may be self-supported in some cases. Moreover, the
shelves 102 may have various configurations, such as vertically
arranged shelves 102, and may be disposed at an angle relative to
horizontal (e.g., less than about 20 degrees) for facilitating
insertion and supporting of the shroud 20 and portable electronic
device 15 on the shelf 102.
[0069] In one embodiment, the gang charger 100 also includes a lock
mechanism 158 (see FIG. 13) for locking each of the shrouds 20 and
portable electronic devices 15. The lock mechanism 158 may be
similar to that used to lock individual shrouds 20 to a dock 50 as
discussed above. For example, each shelf 102 may include a solenoid
configured to be actuated for locking or unlocking the shroud 20 to
the shelf 102. Each shelf 102 may include a respective lock
mechanism 158 such that individual shrouds 20 may be locked and
unlocked independently of one another. Alternatively, multiple
shrouds 20 may be configured to be locked and unlocked using a
single lock mechanism 158. In either case, unlocking the lock
mechanism 158 allows the shroud 20 and portable electronic device
15 to be removed from the shelf 102. Moreover, where individual
lock mechanisms 158 are employed, additional shrouds 20 may be
added to or removed from the gang charger 100 without having to
lock or unlock other shrouds 20 disposed within the gang charger
100. In some cases, inserting a shroud 20 into engagement with a
shelf 102 results in the shroud 20 being automatically locked to
the shelf 102. Each shroud 20 and respective shelf 102 may be
operated in such a manner In some embodiments, an authorized user
could use an electronic key or other suitable security means (e.g.
a pass code) to lock or unlock the lock mechanism 158. For example,
FIG. 13 shows an embodiment where the gang charger 100 includes a
transfer port 108 for communicating with a key for unlocking each
of the shrouds 20. In other embodiments, a manual actuator may be
employed at the location of the transfer port 108 for manually
unlocking the lock mechanism 158. Sometimes the manual actuator and
transfer port 108 may be both present, such as where a user desires
to use one of the two different options. In one embodiment, the
manual actuator is rendered inoperable once the transfer port 108
communicates with an electronic key. Thus, at that time, only an
electronic key may be used to unlock the lock mechanism 158. The
lock mechanism 158 may also be configured to automatically relock
in the event that removal of a portable electronic device 15 is
detected. For example, when the lock mechanism 158 is unlocked and
a shroud 20/portable electronic device 15 are removed, the lock
mechanism 158 automatically relocks upon removal. Thus, additional
shrouds 20/portable electronic devices 15 cannot be removed without
again unlocking the lock mechanism 158. In some embodiments, the
lock mechanism 158 may be configured to relock after a
predetermined period of time after unlocking (e.g., less than about
10 seconds).
[0070] Power may be provided to the portable electronic devices 15
docked within the gang charger 100 using a variety of techniques.
In some cases, power is cycled to simplify the system and reduce
the amount of heat generated in the gang charger 100. The gang
charger 100 may be configured to provide power to portable
electronic devices 15 having different voltage requirements (e.g.,
5V and 12V). In one embodiment, the gang charger 100 may include
one or more voltage regulators. A plurality of voltage regulators
may be used for regulating power to one or more portable electronic
devices 15, as well as an EMV reader 45 when present. For example,
in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12-13, five shelves 102 are
provided, and three voltage regulators may be provided, wherein two
of the regulators are each paired with two shelves 102, and the
third regulator is paired with one shelf 102 and any EMV readers 45
when present. The gang charger 100 may be configured to acquire
identifying information and/or voltage requirements from the shroud
20 to determine the amount of voltage to deliver to the portable
electronic device. Moreover, the gang charger 100 may include one
or more LEDs or visual indicators 110 for indicating the status of
any portable electronic devices 15, such as that the portable
electronic device 15 is docked, charging, and/or is fully
charged.
[0071] In further embodiments, the gang charger 100 may be
configured to provide auditing information. For instance, the gang
charger 100 may be configured to store various types of
information, such as the date and time that a lock mechanism 158 is
locked and/or unlocked, a date and time that a tablet is returned
to a shelf 102, the number of unlocking and/or locking events, an
identifier for each tablet and/or shroud 20 that is removed or
inserted, and/or an identifier for a key that unlocks the lock
mechanism 158. Thus, specific information regarding a shroud 20
and/or tablet may be gathered. The information may be stored in a
memory which may be located at any desired location, including in
the lock mechanism 158. The stored information may be transferred
to a key upon communication with the gang charger 100 and/or a
remote location or device for reviewing the information. For
example, the gang charger 100 may have wireless communications
circuitry for communicating the information to a remote computing
device. Auditing may allow for chain of custody controls and
accountability by users of the tablets. The dock 50 may be
configured to temporarily store data prior to transmitting the data
to a remote location or device for review of the data.
[0072] In some embodiments, a plurality of gang chargers 100 may be
employed, such as within a retail store. In some cases, each shroud
20 is configured to be docked to any one of the gang chargers 100.
Where auditing is enabled, the gang chargers 100 may be connected
via a network such that data may be gathered when a shroud 20 is
docked on any one of the gang chargers 100. As such, useful data
may be provided regardless of which gang charger 100 is used.
[0073] In one embodiment, the tablet and the dock 50 are configured
to communicate with one another. For example, the dock 50 may be
configured to request various information from the tablet while the
shroud 20 is docked on the dock 50. The dock 50 could request
information regarding the identification of the tablet, the battery
life of the tablet, etc. Moreover, the dock 50 may be configured to
gather other information, such as the time of docking or undocking
of the shroud 20 on the dock 50, as well as an identifier for a key
that is used to unlock a shroud 20 from a stand. The dock 50 may be
configured to store the data and/or communicate the data to a
remote location or device.
[0074] In some embodiments, the shroud 20 may include a sensor 26
(see FIG. 6). The sensor 26 may be configured to detect when the
sensor is in proximity to a particular location, such as for
example, an ingress/egress location or exit in a retail store. The
sensor 26 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with one or
more monitoring or base stations 70, such as via ultra-wideband
("UWB") or received signal strength indicator ("RSSI")
communications. In addition, one or more sensors 26 may be
configured to communicate with a monitoring or base station 70.
Thus, in addition or as an alternative, the sensor 26 may be
configured to be detected for initiating a security signal when
detected by the monitoring or base station 70, such as an EAS tower
or gate. The security signal may be generated by the monitoring or
base station 70 at any desired location. In one case, the
monitoring or base station 70 may be located near or at an exit of
the retail store, and may be configured to communicate with the
sensor 26 and determine that the sensor 26 is within the
predetermined distance or range. Distance could be determined using
any one or combination of techniques, such as via signal strength
between the monitoring component and the sensor. If the monitoring
or base station 70 determines that the sensor 70 is within the
predetermined distance or range, the sensor and/or the monitoring
or base station 70 may be configured to generate a security signal.
Therefore, only when the sensor 26 is moved close to the monitoring
or base station 70 will a security event result. In the case where
the sensor 26 alarms when moved within the predetermined distance
or range of the monitoring or base station 70, retail associates
are alerted to a potential theft and can readily identify the
merchandise attached to the sensor 26. In one example, the sensor
26 and/or monitoring or base station 70 may be configured to cease
generating a security signal when the sensor 26 is moved from
within the predetermined distance or range to outside the
predetermined distance or range. In some embodiments, the sensor 26
and monitoring or base station 70 may be similar to that disclosed
in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/072,233, filed on Oct. 28,
2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/184,686, filed on
Jun. 25, 2015, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entireties.
[0075] In one embodiment, the dock 50 is configured to provide a
"seed code" to the shroud 20 and/or hub member 22 so that a shroud
20 and/or hub member 22 is able to determine which system it is
part of by virtue of ever having been docked on a dock 50 that had
been previously communicated with by a coded key. For example, each
seed code may be associated with a particular retail store or
establishment. Thus, the seed code may be used for association with
the shroud 20 and/or hub member 22 in order to communicate with any
dock 50 on which it is placed.
[0076] In another embodiment, the system may be configured to
locate a shroud 20 and/or hub member 22 that a user believes is
lost or missing. A dock 50 or monitoring or base station 70 may be
configured to carry out a request, known as a roll call request.
Such a roll call request may occur when a key communicates with the
dock 50 or monitoring or base station 70 and instructs the same to
go into a roll call request mode. The dock 50 or monitoring or base
station 70 may be configured to send out simultaneous requests via
wireless communication (e.g., UWB) to each shroud 20 and/or hub
member 22 containing the same matching seed code and asks for a
report back. If a shroud 20 is not docked on a dock 50 or gang
charger 100, then the hub member 22 may be configured to generate
an audible and/or visible signal for notifying the user. The user
may activate communication from the hub member 22 (e.g., by
pressing and holding a button on the hub member 22 for a
predetermined period of time), such that the hub member 22 is
configured to report back to the dock 50 or monitoring or base
station 70 that it is accounted for (i.e., a user is using it and
it is not lost). If a shroud 20 is already on a dock 50 or gang
charger 100, then the hub member 22 may be configured to
automatically report back to the monitoring or base station 70 that
it is secure and therefore not lost.
[0077] After a predetermine period of time for the monitoring or
base station 70 waiting for "roll call request" responses (e.g.,
either human or machine), any shroud 20 that has not reported back,
may be sent a command to generate a louder, more frequent alarming
signal so that an associate can follow the sound trail to locate
the missing shroud 20 and tablet. Once located, the user may press
and hold a button on the shroud 20 and/or hub member 22 to indicate
back to the monitoring or base station 70 that it has been found
via wireless communication. Alternatively, docking the shroud 20 on
a dock 50 or gang charger 100 may also report back a "found"
message to the monitoring or base station 70.
[0078] In some embodiments, the hub member 22 may be configured to
determine its own battery life and at some level prior to full
discharge, the hub member 22 may send a message to the monitoring
or base station 70. The monitoring or base station 70 may be
configured to record the "last known distance" of the shroud 20 at
time of power loss, such as via a time of flight calculation
between the monitoring or base station 70 and the shroud 20. This
distance value may be stored and communicated via various
techniques, such as wirelessly to a server and/or sending a
user/manager a text message with the distance value so that if the
shroud 20 ultimately loses power before a user can invoke a "roll
call request" mode, the user at least has knowledge of a distance
away from the monitoring or base station 70 for initiating a search
of its location.
[0079] In some cases, the hub member 22 may be configured to enter
a "low power" mode once it has determined its remaining battery
life. The hub member 22 may be configured to send a message to a
user/manager at which point the user would know to go to the
monitoring or base station 70 so that they could initiate a "roll
call request" function described above. Since the hub member 22 is
already in a "low power mode", which it had previously communicated
to the monitoring or base station 70, the monitoring or base
station 70 is now in a "waiting patiently" mode knowing that the
particular hub member 22 may not immediately report back as it is
configured to temporarily cycle between a "low power mode" and a
"standard power mode" to determine whether the hub member 22 has
received a "roll call request" from the monitoring or base station
70. Once the hub member 22 receives the "roll call request" from
the monitoring or base station 70 during a "standard power" mode,
the hub member 22 may be configured to immediately generate an
alarm signal so that the user who requested the monitoring or base
station 70 to perform this "roll call request" can begin to audibly
locate the hub member 22 before fully losing power.
[0080] In one particular embodiment, the electronic key discussed
above is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,737,845,
entitled Programmable Key for a Security System for Protecting
Merchandise, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein
by reference. In some embodiments, the shroud 20, dock 50, and/or
electronic key are similar to that disclosed in U.S. application
Ser. No. 14/059,735, filed on Oct. 22, 2013 and entitled Display
Stand for a Tablet Computer, and U.S. application Ser. No.
14/300,476, filed on Jun. 10, 2014 and entitled Anti-Theft Device
for Portable Electronic Device, the entire disclosures of which are
incorporated by reference herein.
[0081] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of an
anti-theft device for protecting a portable electronic device, for
example, a tablet, from theft or unauthorized removal. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will understand and appreciate that
numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to
be encompassed by the appended claims.
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