US20090095695A1 - Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms - Google Patents
Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090095695A1 US20090095695A1 US12/047,616 US4761608A US2009095695A1 US 20090095695 A1 US20090095695 A1 US 20090095695A1 US 4761608 A US4761608 A US 4761608A US 2009095695 A1 US2009095695 A1 US 2009095695A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- arm
- guide tube
- display hook
- rod assembly
- time delay
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47F—SPECIAL FURNITURE, FITTINGS, OR ACCESSORIES FOR SHOPS, STOREHOUSES, BARS, RESTAURANTS OR THE LIKE; PAYING COUNTERS
- A47F5/00—Show stands, hangers, or shelves characterised by their constructional features
- A47F5/08—Show stands, hangers, or shelves characterised by their constructional features secured to the wall, ceiling, or the like; Wall-bracket display devices
- A47F5/0807—Display panels, grids or rods used for suspending merchandise or cards supporting articles; Movable brackets therefor
- A47F5/0861—Anti-theft means therefor
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to display hooks for supporting items of merchandise, while preventing rapid removal of the items from the display hook. More particularly, the invention relates to a merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms for increasing the amount of time needed to remove items of merchandise from the display hook.
- the display hook allows a potential purchaser to closely examine a product, oftentimes through transparent protective packaging, prior to purchasing the item.
- the display hook permits the retailer to place several of the items on the display hook for purchase in a relatively small amount of vertical and lateral space, thereby increasing the number of different products that can be displayed on the display structure and reducing the need to re-stock a given product.
- the relatively small size and expense of the items increases the possibility that the merchandise will be stolen or removed from the display area by an unauthorized person.
- a known technique of amateur shoplifters and professional thieves alike is to remove all of the items of merchandise from the display hook at the same time. This technique is commonly referred to as “sweeping” since the items are simultaneously removed from the support rod of the display hook with a rear-to-front sweeping motion.
- display hooks have been developed that include anti-sweep features.
- the simplest anti-sweep feature devised thus far for use on display hooks is a series of bends formed adjacent the free end of the support rod. The series of bends require each item of merchandise to be manipulated off of the support rod of the display hook one at a time. This feature, however, is only somewhat effective since shoplifters and thieves have developed improved dexterity and/or tools for manipulating the merchandise over the series of bends.
- Another known feature for preventing the simultaneous theft of multiple items of merchandise by sweeping is a locking device positioned medially on the support rod of the display hook.
- the locking device is locked into position on the display hook in front of several of the items.
- potential purchasers have access to some of the items for immediate purchase, while the remaining items are securely locked on the support rod of the display hook behind the locking device.
- the display hook is available from Alpha Security Products, Inc. of Charlotte, N.C. and presently sold under the trade name Secure FixturesTM equipped with the StopLokTM locking device.
- the StopLokTM locking device is shown and described in United States Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0062890 A1, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein.
- the locking device is effective for preventing the theft of several items of merchandise at one time, the retailer must periodically monitor each display hook to ensure that the locking device is positioned behind at least one item that is removable for immediate purchase. Otherwise, a potential purchaser may become frustrated if all of the items of merchandise on the display hook are locked on the support rod between the display structure and the locking device.
- a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure that includes a rod assembly and a pair of interlocking time delay arms medially disposed on the rod assembly.
- the interlocking time delay arms are sequentially movable to permit a potential purchaser to manipulate an item of merchandise beyond the time delay arms for removal from the display hook.
- the interlocking time delay arms include a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube and a second arm disposed outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube.
- the first arm is positioned on the rod assembly a preselected distance outwardly from the display structure and is spaced-apart from the second arm sufficiently to permit at least one of the items of merchandise to be disposed between the first arm and the second arm.
- One of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein and the other one of the guide tube and the first arm has a key formed thereon that cooperates with the groove to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm.
- the display hook includes a rod assembly adapted for mounting to a display structure and a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly.
- the rod assembly includes a guide rod and a support rod vertically spaced-apart from the guide rod a predetermined distance.
- the time delay assembly includes a guide tube slidingly disposed on the guide rod, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube.
- One of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein, while the other has a key formed thereon that is received within the groove to permit relative rotation between the first arm and the guide tube.
- the present invention is a method for preventing the rapid removal of a plurality of items of merchandise from a display hook.
- the method includes providing a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure, the display hook including a rod assembly and a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly, the time delay assembly including at least a first arm and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm.
- the method further includes positioning the time delay assembly on the rod assembly of the display hook with the first arm disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise in an initial orientation.
- the method further includes rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about a longitudinal axis defined by the rod assembly sufficiently to position at least one of the items of merchandise on the rod assembly between the first arm and the outwardly spaced second arm.
- the method further includes rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about the longitudinal axis back to the initial orientation.
- the method further includes rotating the second arm relative to the first arm about the longitudinal axis sufficiently to position the at least one item of merchandise on the rod assembly outwardly of the second arm.
- the method further includes removing the at least one item of merchandise from the rod assembly of the display hook.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure with the display hook and the items of merchandise shown in an initial orientation.
- FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the items of merchandise and the label holder removed for clarity.
- FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the items of merchandise removed for clarity.
- FIG. 4 is right side elevation view of the display hook of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 5 is an end view of the display hook of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 6 is a partial section view of the display hook of FIG. 2 taken in the direction indicated by line 5 - 5 in FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of the time delay assembly disposed on the rod assembly of the display hook of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 8 is a detail exploded view of the time delay assembly of FIG. 7 with the rod assembly removed for clarity.
- FIG. 9A is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise and rotated upwardly relative to the second arm of the time delay assembly.
- FIG. 9B is a detail perspective of the time delay assembly and the rod assembly of FIG. 9A shown with the label holder removed for clarity.
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly rotated upwardly relative to the second arm and at least one of the items of merchandise moved to a location between the first arm and the second arm.
- FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly rotated back to the initial orientation and with the at least one item of merchandise positioned between the first arm and the second arm.
- FIG. 12A is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the second arm rotated upwardly relative to the first arm and the at least one item of merchandise moved outwardly beyond the second arm.
- FIG. 12B is a detail perspective view of the time delay assembly and the rod assembly of FIG. 12A shown with the label holder removed for clarity.
- FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the display hook of FIG. 1 shown with the second arm of the time delay assembly rotated back to the initial orientation and the at least one item of merchandise removed from the display hook.
- FIGS. 1-6 a display hook 10 according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1-6 .
- the display hook 10 is operable for supporting items of merchandise 12 , such as relatively small, relatively expensive consumer products (e.g. compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), battery packs, etc.) on a display structure 14 , such as a conventional pegboard, slat board, slat wall or wire grid, in a known manner.
- items of merchandise 12 such as relatively small, relatively expensive consumer products (e.g. compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), battery packs, etc.) on a display structure 14 , such as a conventional pegboard, slat board, slat wall or wire grid, in a known manner.
- display structure 14 such as a conventional pegboard, slat board, slat wall or wire grid, in a known manner.
- the display hook 10 comprises a rod assembly 20 having means for engaging the display structure 14 and a time delay assembly 30 disposed on the rod assembly.
- the display hook 10 may also comprise an optional lockable base 40 disposed on the rod assembly 20 adjacent the display structure 14 .
- the lockable base 40 comprises a housing 42 slidingly disposed on the rod assembly 20 .
- An opening 43 formed in the housing 42 is configured to receive a correspondingly-shaped magnetic key (not shown) for releasably locking the base 40 on the rod assembly 20 .
- the rod assembly 20 includes one or more pegs, hooks, tabs, extensions or the like 25 that engage a compatible display structure 14 .
- the base 40 is slid along the rod assembly 20 up to the display structure 14 and locked in place, for example by a spring-loaded metal cylinder that is biased into a notch (not shown) formed on the rod assembly 20 .
- the display hook 10 may also comprise an optional label holder 50 affixed to the free end of the rod assembly 20 opposite the display structure 14 . As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4 , the free end of the rod assembly 20 has a relief 52 formed therein for receiving the label holder 50 in a slight interference or press fit.
- the rod assembly 20 has a dual-rod configuration comprising an upper guide rod 22 and a lower support rod 24 .
- the time delay assembly 30 is disposed on the guide rod 22 , while the items of merchandise 12 are supported by the support rod 24 .
- the packaging for the items of merchandise 12 includes an upper projection having a through hole 13 such that the merchandise can be loaded (i.e. “stocked”) onto the support rod 24 by a retailer, and subsequently removed by a salesperson or customer.
- the time delay assembly 30 is medially disposed on the guide rod 22 between a proximate end 21 of the rod assembly 20 affixed to the display structure 14 , and a distal end 23 of the rod assembly opposite the display structure.
- the display hook 10 may further comprise an optional anti-sweep feature 60 adjacent the free end (i.e. distal end 23 ) of the support rod 24 .
- the optional anti-sweep feature 60 comprises a series of bends through which an item of merchandise 12 must be manipulated in order to remove the item from the support rod 24 .
- the optional anti-sweep feature 60 is not intended to be limited to the configuration shown herein. Instead, the anti-sweep feature 60 may comprise any structure and may take any form suitable for increasing the time it takes to remove one or more items of merchandise 12 from the display hook 10 .
- the anti-sweep feature 60 may also be configured to require the items of merchandise 12 to be removed one-at-a-time from the support rod 24 .
- FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 An exemplary embodiment of a time delay assembly 30 in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .
- the time delay assembly 30 may be secured to the guide rod 22 at a predetermined medial location between the proximate end 21 and the distal end 23 .
- the time delay assembly 30 is slidingly disposed on the guide rod 22 for horizontal sliding movement between the proximate end 21 and the distal end 23 , as will be described.
- the time delay assembly 30 comprises a guide tube 32 , a first arm 34 rotatably mounted on the guide tube, and a second arm 36 disposed outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube.
- the guide tube 32 comprises an elongate, generally hollow tube having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the guide rod 22 .
- the time delay assembly 30 may be slid onto the free end of the guide rod 22 before the optional label holder 50 is affixed to the distal end 23 .
- the time delay assembly 30 is positioned on the guide rod 22 at a pre-selected distance from the display structure 14 such that the first arm 34 is disposed outwardly from the items of merchandise 12 supported on the support rod 24 in an initial orientation, as shown in FIG. 1 . It should be noted, however, that the items of merchandise 12 may be stocked onto the support rod 24 of the rod assembly 20 either before or after the time delay assembly 30 is positioned on the guide rod 22 .
- the first arm 34 is also spaced-apart from the second arm 36 sufficiently to permit at least one of the items of merchandise 12 to be disposed between the first arm and the second arm, as will be described.
- the guide tube 32 has a plurality of notches 31 formed in the outer surface thereof.
- An opening 33 formed in the first arm 34 is configured to receive a correspondingly-shaped magnetic key (not shown) for releasably locking the first arm within a pre-selected one of notches 31 on the guide tube 32 . More specifically, the magnetic key is disposed within the opening 33 and the first arm 34 is moved along the length of the guide tube 32 until the first arm is positioned on the guide tube with the desired spacing between the first arm and the second arm 36 .
- the magnetic key is then removed from the opening 33 so that a projection on a locking member 35 biased towards the guide tube 32 by a biasing element 37 , for example a conventional coil spring, is received within the pre-selected notch 31 .
- a biasing element 37 for example a conventional coil spring
- the first arm 34 is releasably locked along the length of the guide tube 32 at a location corresponding to the desired spacing between the first arm and the second arm 36 . It should be noted, however, that the first arm 34 remains mounted within notch 31 of guide tube 32 for limited rotation relative to the guide tube about a longitudinal axis L ( FIG. 7 ) defined by the guide rod 22 , as will be described.
- One of the guide tube 32 and the first arm 34 has a key 38 A formed thereon, while the other one of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove 38 B formed therein that cooperates with the key 38 A to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm.
- the guide tube 32 is provided with a key 38 A that is received within a circumferentially extending groove 38 B provided on the first arm 34 such that the first arm is rotatable relative to the guide tube through the angle defined by the groove.
- the angle, or radian length, of the groove 38 B is at least about sixty degrees (60°), and more preferably, between about seventy-five degrees (75°) and one hundred degrees (100°). In a preferred embodiment, the angle defined by the groove 38 B is nominally about ninety degrees (90°).
- the second arm 36 is provided with a circumferentially extending groove or notch 38 C that cooperates with the key 38 A to fix the second arm on the guide tube 32 . In particular, once the first arm 34 is rotatably mounted on the guide tube 32 with the key 38 A received within the groove 38 B, the second arm 36 is fixed on the free end of the guide tube with the key received within the notch 38 C in a slight interference or press fit.
- the time delay arms 34 , 36 are mechanically interlocked and constrained to rotation relative to one another by the angle defined by the circumferential groove 38 B.
- the second arm 36 may be provided with a mechanical stop and/or a recess for receiving a flexible tab on the guide tube 32 to further secure the second arm on the guide tube in a known manner.
- the first arm 34 and the second arm 36 may each comprise a low-powered magnet 39 ( FIG. 8 ) for releasably retaining the first arm and the second arm against a support rod 24 made of metal in the initial orientation shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 9A through FIG. 13 A method for preventing the rapid removal of a plurality of items of merchandise 12 from a display hook 10 according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 9A through FIG. 13 .
- the method comprises providing a display hook 10 for supporting items of merchandise 12 on a display structure 14 .
- the display hook 10 comprises a rod assembly 20 and a time delay assembly 30 medially disposed on the rod assembly.
- the time delay assembly 30 comprises at least a first arm 34 and a second arm 36 spaced outwardly from the first arm.
- the method further comprises positioning the time delay assembly 30 on the rod assembly 20 with the first arm 34 disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise 12 in the initial orientation shown in FIG. 1 . As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG.
- the method further comprises rotating the first arm 34 relative to the second arm 36 about the longitudinal axis L defined by the rod assembly 20 sufficiently to move at least one of the items of merchandise 12 to a location 70 on the rod assembly between the first arm and the outwardly spaced second arm, as shown in FIG. 10 .
- the first arm 34 is rotatable relative to the guide tube 32 and the second arm 36 through the angle or radian length defined by the circumferential groove 38 B. In the fully rotated position, the first arm 34 is preferably substantially horizontal and the second arm 36 is substantially vertical such that the at least one item of merchandise 12 is moveable to the location 70 outwardly of the first arm, but is retained on the support rod 24 of the rod assembly 20 by the second arm.
- the method further comprises rotating the first arm 34 relative to the second arm 36 about the longitudinal axis L back to the initial orientation shown in FIG. 1 with the at least one item of merchandise 12 moved to the location 70 within the space between the first arm and the second arm.
- the second arm 36 is rotatable relative to the first arm 34 through the angle or radian length defined by the circumferential groove 38 B in the opposite direction.
- the method further comprises rotating the second arm 36 relative to the first arm 34 about the longitudinal axis L sufficiently to permit the at least one item of merchandise 12 to be moved along the support rod 24 of the rod assembly 20 outwardly of the second arm.
- the second arm 36 is rotatable with the guide tube 32 relative to the first arm 34 through the angle or radian length defined by the circumferential groove 38 B.
- the second arm 36 is preferably substantially horizontal and the first arm 34 is substantially vertical such that the at least one item of merchandise 12 is moveable from the location 70 outwardly of the first arm to a location 80 outwardly beyond the second arm.
- the optional anti-sweep feature 60 retains the at least one item of merchandise 12 temporarily on the support rod 24 of the rod assembly 20 .
- the method further comprises removing the at least one item of merchandise 12 from the support rod 24 of the rod assembly 20 of the display hook 10 .
- the method may be repeated as desired to remove one or more additional items of merchandise 12 from the display hook 10 in the same manner.
- the space between the first arm 34 and the second arm 36 of the time delay assembly 30 may be adjusted to permit two or more items of merchandise 12 to be removed simultaneously, subject to the presence and configuration of the anti-sweep feature 60 .
- a retailer may stock items of merchandise 12 on the display hook 10 in the reverse manner.
- a magnetic key may be used as previously described to unlock the first arm 34 from the guide tube 32 .
- the first arm 34 is then moved to a position along the guide tube 32 in which the first arm and the second arm 36 are rotatably relative to one another through an angle greater than at least about one hundred and thirty-five degrees (135°), and preferably greater than about one hundred and eighty degrees (180°).
- the foregoing describes exemplary embodiments of a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure, while preventing rapid removal of the items from the display hook.
- the display hook has mechanically interlocked time delay arms for increasing the amount of time needed to remove an item from the display hook.
- a display hook having interlocking time delay arms in accordance with the present invention may be applicable for use with various items of merchandise, including but not limited to consumer electronic products, now known or hereinafter devised, without departing from the spirit and scope of any appended claim.
Abstract
A display hook for supporting items of merchandise includes a rod assembly and a pair of mechanically interlocked time delay arms medially disposed on the rod assembly. The time delay arms are sequentially movable to permit a potential purchaser to manipulate an item beyond the time delay arms for removal from the display hook. The time delay arms include a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube. The first arm is spaced-apart from the second arm sufficiently to permit at least one of the items to be disposed between the arms. The first arm has a circumferentially extending groove and the guide tube has a key that cooperates with the groove to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/979,945, filed Oct. 15, 2007.
- This invention relates generally to display hooks for supporting items of merchandise, while preventing rapid removal of the items from the display hook. More particularly, the invention relates to a merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms for increasing the amount of time needed to remove items of merchandise from the display hook.
- It is common practice for retailers to display relatively small, relatively expensive items of merchandise on display hooks mounted to a display structure, such as a pegboard, slat board, slat wall or wire grid. The display hook allows a potential purchaser to closely examine a product, oftentimes through transparent protective packaging, prior to purchasing the item. At the same time, the display hook permits the retailer to place several of the items on the display hook for purchase in a relatively small amount of vertical and lateral space, thereby increasing the number of different products that can be displayed on the display structure and reducing the need to re-stock a given product. The relatively small size and expense of the items, however, increases the possibility that the merchandise will be stolen or removed from the display area by an unauthorized person.
- A known technique of amateur shoplifters and professional thieves alike is to remove all of the items of merchandise from the display hook at the same time. This technique is commonly referred to as “sweeping” since the items are simultaneously removed from the support rod of the display hook with a rear-to-front sweeping motion. As a result, display hooks have been developed that include anti-sweep features. The simplest anti-sweep feature devised thus far for use on display hooks is a series of bends formed adjacent the free end of the support rod. The series of bends require each item of merchandise to be manipulated off of the support rod of the display hook one at a time. This feature, however, is only somewhat effective since shoplifters and thieves have developed improved dexterity and/or tools for manipulating the merchandise over the series of bends.
- Another known feature for preventing the simultaneous theft of multiple items of merchandise by sweeping is a locking device positioned medially on the support rod of the display hook. The locking device is locked into position on the display hook in front of several of the items. As a result, potential purchasers have access to some of the items for immediate purchase, while the remaining items are securely locked on the support rod of the display hook behind the locking device. The display hook is available from Alpha Security Products, Inc. of Charlotte, N.C. and presently sold under the trade name Secure Fixtures™ equipped with the StopLok™ locking device. The StopLok™ locking device is shown and described in United States Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0062890 A1, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein. While the locking device is effective for preventing the theft of several items of merchandise at one time, the retailer must periodically monitor each display hook to ensure that the locking device is positioned behind at least one item that is removable for immediate purchase. Otherwise, a potential purchaser may become frustrated if all of the items of merchandise on the display hook are locked on the support rod between the display structure and the locking device.
- Accordingly, there exists an unresolved need for an improved display hook for supporting items of merchandise, while preventing rapid removal of the items from the display hook. There exists a more specific need for a display hook that is more effective in preventing the simultaneous theft of several items of merchandise by sweeping. There exists a still more specific need for a display hook for supporting several items of merchandise that prevents sweeping without requiring the retailer to periodically monitor the display hook to ensure that at least one of the items is available for immediate removal and purchase.
- The aforementioned needs, objectives and advantages, as well as others readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are provided by a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure that includes a rod assembly and a pair of interlocking time delay arms medially disposed on the rod assembly. The interlocking time delay arms are sequentially movable to permit a potential purchaser to manipulate an item of merchandise beyond the time delay arms for removal from the display hook.
- In one embodiment, the interlocking time delay arms include a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube and a second arm disposed outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube. The first arm is positioned on the rod assembly a preselected distance outwardly from the display structure and is spaced-apart from the second arm sufficiently to permit at least one of the items of merchandise to be disposed between the first arm and the second arm. One of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein and the other one of the guide tube and the first arm has a key formed thereon that cooperates with the groove to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm.
- In yet another embodiment, the display hook includes a rod assembly adapted for mounting to a display structure and a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly. The rod assembly includes a guide rod and a support rod vertically spaced-apart from the guide rod a predetermined distance. The time delay assembly includes a guide tube slidingly disposed on the guide rod, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube. One of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein, while the other has a key formed thereon that is received within the groove to permit relative rotation between the first arm and the guide tube.
- In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a method for preventing the rapid removal of a plurality of items of merchandise from a display hook. The method includes providing a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure, the display hook including a rod assembly and a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly, the time delay assembly including at least a first arm and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm. The method further includes positioning the time delay assembly on the rod assembly of the display hook with the first arm disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise in an initial orientation. The method further includes rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about a longitudinal axis defined by the rod assembly sufficiently to position at least one of the items of merchandise on the rod assembly between the first arm and the outwardly spaced second arm. The method further includes rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about the longitudinal axis back to the initial orientation. The method further includes rotating the second arm relative to the first arm about the longitudinal axis sufficiently to position the at least one item of merchandise on the rod assembly outwardly of the second arm. The method further includes removing the at least one item of merchandise from the rod assembly of the display hook.
- The present invention is best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure with the display hook and the items of merchandise shown in an initial orientation. -
FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the items of merchandise and the label holder removed for clarity. -
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the items of merchandise removed for clarity. -
FIG. 4 is right side elevation view of the display hook ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 is an end view of the display hook ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 6 is a partial section view of the display hook ofFIG. 2 taken in the direction indicated by line 5-5 inFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of the time delay assembly disposed on the rod assembly of the display hook ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 8 is a detail exploded view of the time delay assembly ofFIG. 7 with the rod assembly removed for clarity. -
FIG. 9A is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise and rotated upwardly relative to the second arm of the time delay assembly. -
FIG. 9B is a detail perspective of the time delay assembly and the rod assembly ofFIG. 9A shown with the label holder removed for clarity. -
FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly rotated upwardly relative to the second arm and at least one of the items of merchandise moved to a location between the first arm and the second arm. -
FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the first arm of the time delay assembly rotated back to the initial orientation and with the at least one item of merchandise positioned between the first arm and the second arm. -
FIG. 12A is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the second arm rotated upwardly relative to the first arm and the at least one item of merchandise moved outwardly beyond the second arm. -
FIG. 12B is a detail perspective view of the time delay assembly and the rod assembly ofFIG. 12A shown with the label holder removed for clarity. -
FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the display hook ofFIG. 1 shown with the second arm of the time delay assembly rotated back to the initial orientation and the at least one item of merchandise removed from the display hook. - Referring now to the accompanying drawing figures wherein identical reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the various views, a
display hook 10 according to the present invention is shown inFIGS. 1-6 . Thedisplay hook 10 is operable for supporting items ofmerchandise 12, such as relatively small, relatively expensive consumer products (e.g. compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), battery packs, etc.) on adisplay structure 14, such as a conventional pegboard, slat board, slat wall or wire grid, in a known manner. - The
display hook 10 comprises arod assembly 20 having means for engaging thedisplay structure 14 and atime delay assembly 30 disposed on the rod assembly. Thedisplay hook 10 may also comprise an optionallockable base 40 disposed on therod assembly 20 adjacent thedisplay structure 14. As shown, thelockable base 40 comprises ahousing 42 slidingly disposed on therod assembly 20. Anopening 43 formed in thehousing 42 is configured to receive a correspondingly-shaped magnetic key (not shown) for releasably locking thebase 40 on therod assembly 20. As shown inFIG. 3 andFIG. 4 , therod assembly 20 includes one or more pegs, hooks, tabs, extensions or the like 25 that engage acompatible display structure 14. Thebase 40 is slid along therod assembly 20 up to thedisplay structure 14 and locked in place, for example by a spring-loaded metal cylinder that is biased into a notch (not shown) formed on therod assembly 20. Thedisplay hook 10 may also comprise anoptional label holder 50 affixed to the free end of therod assembly 20 opposite thedisplay structure 14. As shown inFIG. 2 andFIG. 4 , the free end of therod assembly 20 has arelief 52 formed therein for receiving thelabel holder 50 in a slight interference or press fit. - As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment shown and described herein, the
rod assembly 20 has a dual-rod configuration comprising anupper guide rod 22 and alower support rod 24. Thetime delay assembly 30 is disposed on theguide rod 22, while the items ofmerchandise 12 are supported by thesupport rod 24. Typically, the packaging for the items ofmerchandise 12 includes an upper projection having a throughhole 13 such that the merchandise can be loaded (i.e. “stocked”) onto thesupport rod 24 by a retailer, and subsequently removed by a salesperson or customer. More particularly, thetime delay assembly 30 is medially disposed on theguide rod 22 between aproximate end 21 of therod assembly 20 affixed to thedisplay structure 14, and adistal end 23 of the rod assembly opposite the display structure. Thedisplay hook 10 may further comprise an optionalanti-sweep feature 60 adjacent the free end (i.e. distal end 23) of thesupport rod 24. As shown herein, the optionalanti-sweep feature 60 comprises a series of bends through which an item ofmerchandise 12 must be manipulated in order to remove the item from thesupport rod 24. The optionalanti-sweep feature 60 is not intended to be limited to the configuration shown herein. Instead, theanti-sweep feature 60 may comprise any structure and may take any form suitable for increasing the time it takes to remove one or more items ofmerchandise 12 from thedisplay hook 10. Theanti-sweep feature 60 may also be configured to require the items ofmerchandise 12 to be removed one-at-a-time from thesupport rod 24. - An exemplary embodiment of a
time delay assembly 30 in accordance with the present invention is shown inFIG. 7 andFIG. 8 . Thetime delay assembly 30 may be secured to theguide rod 22 at a predetermined medial location between theproximate end 21 and thedistal end 23. Preferably, however, thetime delay assembly 30 is slidingly disposed on theguide rod 22 for horizontal sliding movement between theproximate end 21 and thedistal end 23, as will be described. Regardless, thetime delay assembly 30 comprises aguide tube 32, afirst arm 34 rotatably mounted on the guide tube, and asecond arm 36 disposed outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube. Theguide tube 32 comprises an elongate, generally hollow tube having an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of theguide rod 22. As such, thetime delay assembly 30 may be slid onto the free end of theguide rod 22 before theoptional label holder 50 is affixed to thedistal end 23. Thetime delay assembly 30 is positioned on theguide rod 22 at a pre-selected distance from thedisplay structure 14 such that thefirst arm 34 is disposed outwardly from the items ofmerchandise 12 supported on thesupport rod 24 in an initial orientation, as shown inFIG. 1 . It should be noted, however, that the items ofmerchandise 12 may be stocked onto thesupport rod 24 of therod assembly 20 either before or after thetime delay assembly 30 is positioned on theguide rod 22. - The
first arm 34 is also spaced-apart from thesecond arm 36 sufficiently to permit at least one of the items ofmerchandise 12 to be disposed between the first arm and the second arm, as will be described. As best shown inFIG. 7 andFIG. 8 , theguide tube 32 has a plurality ofnotches 31 formed in the outer surface thereof. Anopening 33 formed in thefirst arm 34 is configured to receive a correspondingly-shaped magnetic key (not shown) for releasably locking the first arm within a pre-selected one ofnotches 31 on theguide tube 32. More specifically, the magnetic key is disposed within theopening 33 and thefirst arm 34 is moved along the length of theguide tube 32 until the first arm is positioned on the guide tube with the desired spacing between the first arm and thesecond arm 36. The magnetic key is then removed from theopening 33 so that a projection on a lockingmember 35 biased towards theguide tube 32 by a biasingelement 37, for example a conventional coil spring, is received within thepre-selected notch 31. As a result, thefirst arm 34 is releasably locked along the length of theguide tube 32 at a location corresponding to the desired spacing between the first arm and thesecond arm 36. It should be noted, however, that thefirst arm 34 remains mounted withinnotch 31 ofguide tube 32 for limited rotation relative to the guide tube about a longitudinal axis L (FIG. 7 ) defined by theguide rod 22, as will be described. - One of the
guide tube 32 and thefirst arm 34 has a key 38A formed thereon, while the other one of the guide tube and the first arm has acircumferentially extending groove 38B formed therein that cooperates with the key 38A to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm. In the exemplary embodiment shown and described herein (FIG. 6 andFIG. 8 ), theguide tube 32 is provided with a key 38A that is received within acircumferentially extending groove 38B provided on thefirst arm 34 such that the first arm is rotatable relative to the guide tube through the angle defined by the groove. The angle, or radian length, of thegroove 38B is at least about sixty degrees (60°), and more preferably, between about seventy-five degrees (75°) and one hundred degrees (100°). In a preferred embodiment, the angle defined by thegroove 38B is nominally about ninety degrees (90°). Thesecond arm 36 is provided with a circumferentially extending groove ornotch 38C that cooperates with the key 38A to fix the second arm on theguide tube 32. In particular, once thefirst arm 34 is rotatably mounted on theguide tube 32 with the key 38A received within thegroove 38B, thesecond arm 36 is fixed on the free end of the guide tube with the key received within thenotch 38C in a slight interference or press fit. As such, thetime delay arms circumferential groove 38B. If desired, thesecond arm 36 may be provided with a mechanical stop and/or a recess for receiving a flexible tab on theguide tube 32 to further secure the second arm on the guide tube in a known manner. Furthermore, thefirst arm 34 and thesecond arm 36 may each comprise a low-powered magnet 39 (FIG. 8 ) for releasably retaining the first arm and the second arm against asupport rod 24 made of metal in the initial orientation shown inFIG. 1 . - A method for preventing the rapid removal of a plurality of items of
merchandise 12 from adisplay hook 10 according to the present invention is illustrated inFIG. 9A throughFIG. 13 . The method comprises providing adisplay hook 10 for supporting items ofmerchandise 12 on adisplay structure 14. As previously described, thedisplay hook 10 comprises arod assembly 20 and atime delay assembly 30 medially disposed on the rod assembly. Thetime delay assembly 30 comprises at least afirst arm 34 and asecond arm 36 spaced outwardly from the first arm. The method further comprises positioning thetime delay assembly 30 on therod assembly 20 with thefirst arm 34 disposed outwardly of the items ofmerchandise 12 in the initial orientation shown inFIG. 1 . As shown inFIG. 9A andFIG. 9B , the method further comprises rotating thefirst arm 34 relative to thesecond arm 36 about the longitudinal axis L defined by therod assembly 20 sufficiently to move at least one of the items ofmerchandise 12 to alocation 70 on the rod assembly between the first arm and the outwardly spaced second arm, as shown inFIG. 10 . Thefirst arm 34 is rotatable relative to theguide tube 32 and thesecond arm 36 through the angle or radian length defined by thecircumferential groove 38B. In the fully rotated position, thefirst arm 34 is preferably substantially horizontal and thesecond arm 36 is substantially vertical such that the at least one item ofmerchandise 12 is moveable to thelocation 70 outwardly of the first arm, but is retained on thesupport rod 24 of therod assembly 20 by the second arm. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , the method further comprises rotating thefirst arm 34 relative to thesecond arm 36 about the longitudinal axis L back to the initial orientation shown inFIG. 1 with the at least one item ofmerchandise 12 moved to thelocation 70 within the space between the first arm and the second arm. In this orientation, thesecond arm 36 is rotatable relative to thefirst arm 34 through the angle or radian length defined by thecircumferential groove 38B in the opposite direction. As shown inFIG. 12A andFIG. 12B , the method further comprises rotating thesecond arm 36 relative to thefirst arm 34 about the longitudinal axis L sufficiently to permit the at least one item ofmerchandise 12 to be moved along thesupport rod 24 of therod assembly 20 outwardly of the second arm. Thesecond arm 36 is rotatable with theguide tube 32 relative to thefirst arm 34 through the angle or radian length defined by thecircumferential groove 38B. In the fully rotated position, thesecond arm 36 is preferably substantially horizontal and thefirst arm 34 is substantially vertical such that the at least one item ofmerchandise 12 is moveable from thelocation 70 outwardly of the first arm to alocation 80 outwardly beyond the second arm. If provided, the optionalanti-sweep feature 60 retains the at least one item ofmerchandise 12 temporarily on thesupport rod 24 of therod assembly 20. - Finally, the method further comprises removing the at least one item of
merchandise 12 from thesupport rod 24 of therod assembly 20 of thedisplay hook 10. The method may be repeated as desired to remove one or more additional items ofmerchandise 12 from thedisplay hook 10 in the same manner. Alternatively, the space between thefirst arm 34 and thesecond arm 36 of thetime delay assembly 30 may be adjusted to permit two or more items ofmerchandise 12 to be removed simultaneously, subject to the presence and configuration of theanti-sweep feature 60. A retailer may stock items ofmerchandise 12 on thedisplay hook 10 in the reverse manner. Alternatively, a magnetic key may be used as previously described to unlock thefirst arm 34 from theguide tube 32. Thefirst arm 34 is then moved to a position along theguide tube 32 in which the first arm and thesecond arm 36 are rotatably relative to one another through an angle greater than at least about one hundred and thirty-five degrees (135°), and preferably greater than about one hundred and eighty degrees (180°). - The foregoing describes exemplary embodiments of a display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure, while preventing rapid removal of the items from the display hook. The display hook has mechanically interlocked time delay arms for increasing the amount of time needed to remove an item from the display hook. While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description of preferred embodiments and the best mode for practicing the invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limitation. In particular, it will be appreciated that a display hook having interlocking time delay arms in accordance with the present invention may be applicable for use with various items of merchandise, including but not limited to consumer electronic products, now known or hereinafter devised, without departing from the spirit and scope of any appended claim.
Claims (20)
1. A display hook for supporting items of merchandise, comprising:
a rod assembly; and
a pair of time delay arms medially disposed and spaced-apart on the rod assembly, the time delay arms being sequentially movable to permit a potential purchaser to manipulate at least one of the items of merchandise beyond the time delay arms for removal from the display hook.
2. A display hook according to claim 1 , wherein the time delay arms comprise a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube, and a second arm disposed outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube.
3. A display hook according to claim 2 , wherein the first arm is positioned on the rod assembly at a preselected medial position and is spaced-apart from the second arm sufficiently to permit at least one of the items of merchandise to be disposed between the first arm and the second arm.
4. A display hook according to claim 2 , wherein one of the guide tube and the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein and the other one of the guide tube and the first arm has a key formed thereon that cooperates with the groove to permit limited rotation between the guide tube and the first arm.
5. A display hook according to claim 4 , wherein the groove and the key permit limited rotation of the first arm relative to the guide tube about a longitudinal axis defined by the rod assembly between about 60 degrees and about 100 degrees.
6. A display hook according to claim 4 , wherein the second arm has a notch formed therein that cooperates with the key to fix the second arm on the guide tube such that the first arm and the second arm are mechanically interlocked and constrained to rotate relative to one another by the limited rotation defined by the groove and the key.
7. A display hook according to claim 2 , wherein the rod assembly comprises a guide rod and a support rod vertically spaced-apart from the guide rod a predetermined distance and wherein the guide tube is slidingly disposed on the guide rod.
8. A display hook according to claim 2 , wherein the guide tube has a plurality of notches formed therein and the first arm is configured to receive a magnetic key for releasably locking the first arm within one of the notches of the guide tube.
9. A display hook according to claim 8 , wherein the first arm comprises a locking member that is biased towards the guide tube by a biasing element to lock the first arm within the notch of the guide tube.
10. A display hook according to claim 1 , further comprising a lockable base disposed on the rod assembly.
11. A display hook according to claim 10 , further comprising a label holder affixed to a free end of the rod assembly.
12. A display hook according to claim 1 , further comprising an anti-sweep feature disposed adjacent a free end of the rod assembly.
13. A display hook for supporting items of merchandise on a display structure, comprising:
a rod assembly adapted for mounting to the display structure; and
a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly, the time delay assembly comprising mechanically interlocked time delay arms constrained to rotate relative to one another through a predetermined angle so as to increase the time required to manipulate one or more of the items of merchandise beyond the time delay assembly and thereby prevent rapid removal of the items of merchandise from the display hook.
14. A display hook according to claim 13 , wherein the rod assembly comprises a guide rod and a support rod vertically spaced-apart from the guide rod a predetermined distance.
15. A display hook according to claim 13 , wherein the time delay assembly comprises a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube, and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube.
16. A display hook according to claim 15 , wherein the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein and the guide tube has a key formed thereon that is received within the groove to permit relative rotation between the first arm and the guide tube.
17. A display hook according to claim 16 , wherein the second arm has a notch formed therein that cooperates with the key formed on the guide tube to fix the second arm on the guide tube such that the first arm and the second arm are mechanically interlocked and constrained to rotate relative to one another by the limited rotation defined by the groove and the key.
18. A display hook according to claim 15 , wherein the guide tube has a plurality of notches formed therein and the first arm is configured to receive a magnetic key for releasably locking the first arm within one of the notches of the guide tube, the first arm comprising a locking member having a projection that is biased towards the guide tube by a biasing element to lock the first arm within one of the plurality of notches on the guide tube.
19. A method for preventing the rapid removal of items of merchandise from a display hook, comprising:
providing a display hook for supporting the items of merchandise on a display structure, the display hook comprising a rod assembly and a time delay assembly medially disposed on the rod assembly, the time delay assembly including at least a first arm and a second arm spaced outwardly on the rod assembly from the first arm;
positioning the time delay assembly on the rod assembly of the display hook with the first arm disposed outwardly of the items of merchandise in an initial orientation;
rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about a longitudinal axis defined by the rod assembly sufficiently to position at least one of the items of merchandise on the rod assembly between the first arm and the outwardly spaced second arm;
rotating the first arm relative to the second arm about the longitudinal axis back to the initial orientation;
rotating the second arm relative to the first arm about the longitudinal axis sufficiently to position the at least one item of merchandise on the rod assembly outwardly of the second arm; and
removing the at least one item of merchandise from the rod assembly of the display hook.
20. A method according to claim 19
wherein the time delay assembly comprises a guide tube slidingly disposed on the rod assembly, a first arm rotatably mounted on the guide tube, and a second arm spaced outwardly from the first arm and fixedly mounted on the guide tube;
wherein the first arm has a circumferentially extending groove formed therein and the guide tube has a key formed thereon that is received within the groove to permit relative rotation between the first arm and the guide tube; and
wherein the second arm has a notch formed therein that cooperates with the key formed on the guide tube to fix the second arm on the guide tube.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/047,616 US20090095695A1 (en) | 2007-10-15 | 2008-03-13 | Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms |
PCT/US2008/079194 WO2009051998A1 (en) | 2007-10-15 | 2008-10-08 | Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US97994507P | 2007-10-15 | 2007-10-15 | |
US12/047,616 US20090095695A1 (en) | 2007-10-15 | 2008-03-13 | Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090095695A1 true US20090095695A1 (en) | 2009-04-16 |
Family
ID=40533163
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/047,616 Abandoned US20090095695A1 (en) | 2007-10-15 | 2008-03-13 | Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090095695A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009051998A1 (en) |
Cited By (39)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090032482A1 (en) * | 2007-08-01 | 2009-02-05 | Universal Display & Fixtures Company | Apparatus and method for utilizing a gravity feed hanger |
US20100223965A1 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2010-09-09 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Reversible locking device for merchandise display hooks |
WO2010125590A1 (en) * | 2009-04-27 | 2010-11-04 | La Guidara, Andrea Agatino Arturo | Product dispenser |
US20110036789A1 (en) * | 2009-08-12 | 2011-02-17 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook having time delay mechanism including helix |
US20110127225A1 (en) * | 2009-12-01 | 2011-06-02 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including helical time delay mechanism having bi-directional gear |
WO2012094668A1 (en) * | 2011-01-07 | 2012-07-12 | Mechtronics Corporation | Theft deterrent device for product display systems |
US20120253508A1 (en) * | 2011-04-01 | 2012-10-04 | Holmes William K | Point of display inventory control apparatus and system |
US20130105419A1 (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2013-05-02 | Joseph F. Kologe | Security hook for product display |
US20130141240A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2013-06-06 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal Emitting Retail Device |
US8534469B2 (en) * | 2011-11-01 | 2013-09-17 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Inventory display lock |
US8884761B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 | 2014-11-11 | Souther Imperial, Inc. | Theft detection device and method for controlling |
US20150001167A1 (en) * | 2013-07-01 | 2015-01-01 | Tracfone Wireless, Inc. | Security hook device and method |
US9167918B2 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2015-10-27 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for articles displayed on an elongate rod |
US9318008B2 (en) | 2011-12-06 | 2016-04-19 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal emitting retail device |
US9324220B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 | 2016-04-26 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Theft detection device and method for controlling same |
WO2016087161A1 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2016-06-09 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Goods holder having two signal-producing means |
US20160198867A1 (en) * | 2015-01-14 | 2016-07-14 | Trans World Marketing Corp. | Hanger Assembly for Displaying Products |
US9622596B2 (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2017-04-18 | Sts Innovation & Design, Llc | Bracelet hook |
US9934665B1 (en) | 2016-09-16 | 2018-04-03 | Ningsheng Zhang | Box edge security device |
US20180296007A1 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2018-10-18 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US10121341B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2018-11-06 | Southern Imperial Llc | Retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US10219636B2 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2019-03-05 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US20190164378A1 (en) * | 2018-07-04 | 2019-05-30 | Ti Chin CHANG | hanging rod control device for display rack |
US10334964B2 (en) * | 2017-08-03 | 2019-07-02 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Holder assembly |
US10694871B1 (en) * | 2019-02-15 | 2020-06-30 | Marketing Impact Limited | Anti-sweep mechanism for merchandise display hook |
US20200323361A1 (en) * | 2019-02-15 | 2020-10-15 | Marketing Impact Limited | Anti-sweep mechanism for merchandise display hook |
US10885753B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2021-01-05 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft device with remote alarm feature |
US10993550B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2021-05-04 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise pusher with remote alarm feature |
US11087601B1 (en) | 2020-04-02 | 2021-08-10 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc | Anti-theft device with cable attachment |
US11109692B2 (en) | 2014-11-12 | 2021-09-07 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Systems and methods for merchandizing electronic displays |
US11182738B2 (en) * | 2014-11-12 | 2021-11-23 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | System for inventory management |
US11188973B2 (en) | 2013-03-05 | 2021-11-30 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | In-store item alert architecture |
US20220154495A1 (en) * | 2020-11-17 | 2022-05-19 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for portable consumer article |
US11363894B2 (en) | 2019-04-05 | 2022-06-21 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft pusher with incremental distance detection |
US11397914B2 (en) | 2004-02-03 | 2022-07-26 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Continuous display shelf edge label device |
US11580812B2 (en) | 2004-02-03 | 2023-02-14 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | System for inventory management |
US20230180930A1 (en) * | 2018-12-07 | 2023-06-15 | Quality Wood Designs, Inc. | Firearm Holder Including a Stock Lock and Muzzle Holder |
US20230255366A1 (en) * | 2020-07-03 | 2023-08-17 | Fors France | System for presentation of self-service items |
USD1019444S1 (en) | 2020-04-16 | 2024-03-26 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Security tag holder |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5009334A (en) * | 1989-09-19 | 1991-04-23 | The Gillette Company | Anti-pilferage fixture |
US5027622A (en) * | 1990-07-05 | 1991-07-02 | Hatch J Mel | Locking device for rods extending from merchandizing displays |
US5259220A (en) * | 1992-05-15 | 1993-11-09 | Fredrickson Howard J | Security device for merchandise display hooks |
US5275027A (en) * | 1992-06-16 | 1994-01-04 | Santa Cruz Industries | Security device for merchandise display hooks |
US5597150A (en) * | 1995-03-22 | 1997-01-28 | Display Technologies, Inc. | Pilfer-resistant peg hook assembly |
US5624040A (en) * | 1995-02-21 | 1997-04-29 | Hono; Eiji | Theft-preventive display hook system |
US5671851A (en) * | 1996-05-02 | 1997-09-30 | Gamon International, Inc. | Product display apparatus |
US5676258A (en) * | 1995-08-24 | 1997-10-14 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for apertured goods |
US5711432A (en) * | 1996-03-15 | 1998-01-27 | Display Technologies, Inc. | Pilfer-resistant peg hook assembly |
US6474478B1 (en) * | 1999-11-03 | 2002-11-05 | Alpha Security Products, Inc. | Security device for preventing rapid removal of merchandise |
US7197902B1 (en) * | 2005-11-28 | 2007-04-03 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Display lock system |
Family Cites Families (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
NL1000796C2 (en) * | 1995-07-14 | 1997-01-15 | Tchai Holding B V | Rack-hook for shop use |
-
2008
- 2008-03-13 US US12/047,616 patent/US20090095695A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-10-08 WO PCT/US2008/079194 patent/WO2009051998A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5009334A (en) * | 1989-09-19 | 1991-04-23 | The Gillette Company | Anti-pilferage fixture |
US5027622A (en) * | 1990-07-05 | 1991-07-02 | Hatch J Mel | Locking device for rods extending from merchandizing displays |
US5259220A (en) * | 1992-05-15 | 1993-11-09 | Fredrickson Howard J | Security device for merchandise display hooks |
US5275027A (en) * | 1992-06-16 | 1994-01-04 | Santa Cruz Industries | Security device for merchandise display hooks |
US5624040A (en) * | 1995-02-21 | 1997-04-29 | Hono; Eiji | Theft-preventive display hook system |
US5597150A (en) * | 1995-03-22 | 1997-01-28 | Display Technologies, Inc. | Pilfer-resistant peg hook assembly |
US5676258A (en) * | 1995-08-24 | 1997-10-14 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for apertured goods |
US5711432A (en) * | 1996-03-15 | 1998-01-27 | Display Technologies, Inc. | Pilfer-resistant peg hook assembly |
US5671851A (en) * | 1996-05-02 | 1997-09-30 | Gamon International, Inc. | Product display apparatus |
US6474478B1 (en) * | 1999-11-03 | 2002-11-05 | Alpha Security Products, Inc. | Security device for preventing rapid removal of merchandise |
US6659291B2 (en) * | 1999-11-03 | 2003-12-09 | Alpha Security Products, Inc. | Security device for preventing rapid removal of merchandise |
US7007810B2 (en) * | 1999-11-03 | 2006-03-07 | Alpha Security Products, Inc. | Security device for preventing rapid removal of merchandise |
US7197902B1 (en) * | 2005-11-28 | 2007-04-03 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Display lock system |
Cited By (69)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11397914B2 (en) | 2004-02-03 | 2022-07-26 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Continuous display shelf edge label device |
US11580812B2 (en) | 2004-02-03 | 2023-02-14 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | System for inventory management |
US7882964B2 (en) * | 2007-08-01 | 2011-02-08 | Frito-Lay North America, Inc. | Apparatus and method for utilizing a gravity feed hanger |
US20090032482A1 (en) * | 2007-08-01 | 2009-02-05 | Universal Display & Fixtures Company | Apparatus and method for utilizing a gravity feed hanger |
US20100223965A1 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2010-09-09 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Reversible locking device for merchandise display hooks |
US8286454B2 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2012-10-16 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Reversible locking device for merchandise display hooks |
WO2010125590A1 (en) * | 2009-04-27 | 2010-11-04 | La Guidara, Andrea Agatino Arturo | Product dispenser |
US8523012B2 (en) | 2009-08-12 | 2013-09-03 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook having time delay mechanism including helix |
US20110036789A1 (en) * | 2009-08-12 | 2011-02-17 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook having time delay mechanism including helix |
US20110127225A1 (en) * | 2009-12-01 | 2011-06-02 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including helical time delay mechanism having bi-directional gear |
US8684227B2 (en) * | 2009-12-01 | 2014-04-01 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including helical time delay mechanism having bi-directional gear |
WO2012094668A1 (en) * | 2011-01-07 | 2012-07-12 | Mechtronics Corporation | Theft deterrent device for product display systems |
US9468315B2 (en) | 2011-01-07 | 2016-10-18 | Mechtronics Corporation | Theft deterrent device for product display systems |
US20120253508A1 (en) * | 2011-04-01 | 2012-10-04 | Holmes William K | Point of display inventory control apparatus and system |
US8794453B2 (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2014-08-05 | Trion Industries, Inc. | Security hook for product display |
US20130105419A1 (en) * | 2011-10-26 | 2013-05-02 | Joseph F. Kologe | Security hook for product display |
US8534469B2 (en) * | 2011-11-01 | 2013-09-17 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Inventory display lock |
US9318007B2 (en) | 2011-12-06 | 2016-04-19 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal emitting retail device |
US8629772B2 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2014-01-14 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal emitting retail device |
US20130141240A1 (en) * | 2011-12-06 | 2013-06-06 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal Emitting Retail Device |
US9318008B2 (en) | 2011-12-06 | 2016-04-19 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Signal emitting retail device |
US9324220B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 | 2016-04-26 | Southern Imperial, Inc. | Theft detection device and method for controlling same |
US8884761B2 (en) | 2012-08-21 | 2014-11-11 | Souther Imperial, Inc. | Theft detection device and method for controlling |
US11188973B2 (en) | 2013-03-05 | 2021-11-30 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | In-store item alert architecture |
US20150001167A1 (en) * | 2013-07-01 | 2015-01-01 | Tracfone Wireless, Inc. | Security hook device and method |
US9247833B2 (en) * | 2013-07-01 | 2016-02-02 | Tracfone Wireless, Inc. | Security hook device and method |
US9622596B2 (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2017-04-18 | Sts Innovation & Design, Llc | Bracelet hook |
US9167918B2 (en) * | 2014-01-09 | 2015-10-27 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for articles displayed on an elongate rod |
US11109692B2 (en) | 2014-11-12 | 2021-09-07 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Systems and methods for merchandizing electronic displays |
US11182738B2 (en) * | 2014-11-12 | 2021-11-23 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | System for inventory management |
US11468401B2 (en) | 2014-11-12 | 2022-10-11 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Application system for inventory management |
JP2018503482A (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2018-02-08 | インベントリー・システムズ・ゲーエムベーハーInventory Systems Gmbh | Article holder provided with two signal generating means |
CN106998927A (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2017-08-01 | 因文托里系统有限公司 | Shelf with two signal generation mechanisms |
WO2016087161A1 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2016-06-09 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Goods holder having two signal-producing means |
US10420427B2 (en) | 2014-12-05 | 2019-09-24 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Goods holder having two signal-producing means |
AU2015357607B2 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2019-11-28 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Goods holder having two signal-producing means |
US20160198867A1 (en) * | 2015-01-14 | 2016-07-14 | Trans World Marketing Corp. | Hanger Assembly for Displaying Products |
US10219636B2 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2019-03-05 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US11571076B2 (en) | 2016-02-23 | 2023-02-07 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US11006768B2 (en) | 2016-02-23 | 2021-05-18 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US20180296007A1 (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2018-10-18 | Invue Security Products Inc. | Merchandise display hook including anti-sweep mechanism |
US10593178B2 (en) | 2016-09-16 | 2020-03-17 | Edge Security Products, Llc | Box edge security device |
US9934665B1 (en) | 2016-09-16 | 2018-04-03 | Ningsheng Zhang | Box edge security device |
US11037421B2 (en) | 2016-09-16 | 2021-06-15 | Edge Security Products, Llc | Box edge security device |
US11295591B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2022-04-05 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US10997839B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2021-05-04 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US11663893B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2023-05-30 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US10720035B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2020-07-21 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US10121341B2 (en) | 2017-01-23 | 2018-11-06 | Southern Imperial Llc | Retail merchandise hook with radio transmission |
US10334964B2 (en) * | 2017-08-03 | 2019-07-02 | Inventory Systems Gmbh | Holder assembly |
US11737579B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2023-08-29 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise pusher with remote alarm feature |
US10885753B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2021-01-05 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft device with remote alarm feature |
US11605276B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2023-03-14 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft device with remote alarm feature |
US11317738B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2022-05-03 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise pusher with remote alarm feature |
US10993550B2 (en) | 2018-03-21 | 2021-05-04 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft retail merchandise pusher with remote alarm feature |
US20190164378A1 (en) * | 2018-07-04 | 2019-05-30 | Ti Chin CHANG | hanging rod control device for display rack |
US10755516B2 (en) * | 2018-07-04 | 2020-08-25 | Brighton-Best International (Taiwan) Inc. | Hanging rod control device for display rack |
US20230180930A1 (en) * | 2018-12-07 | 2023-06-15 | Quality Wood Designs, Inc. | Firearm Holder Including a Stock Lock and Muzzle Holder |
US20200323361A1 (en) * | 2019-02-15 | 2020-10-15 | Marketing Impact Limited | Anti-sweep mechanism for merchandise display hook |
US10694871B1 (en) * | 2019-02-15 | 2020-06-30 | Marketing Impact Limited | Anti-sweep mechanism for merchandise display hook |
US11707141B2 (en) | 2019-04-05 | 2023-07-25 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft pusher with incremental distance detection |
US11363894B2 (en) | 2019-04-05 | 2022-06-21 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft pusher with incremental distance detection |
US11727773B2 (en) | 2020-04-02 | 2023-08-15 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Anti-theft device with cable attachment |
US11087601B1 (en) | 2020-04-02 | 2021-08-10 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc | Anti-theft device with cable attachment |
USD1019444S1 (en) | 2020-04-16 | 2024-03-26 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Security tag holder |
USD1019445S1 (en) | 2020-04-16 | 2024-03-26 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Security tag holder |
USD1019446S1 (en) | 2020-04-16 | 2024-03-26 | Fasteners For Retail, Inc. | Security tag holder |
US20230255366A1 (en) * | 2020-07-03 | 2023-08-17 | Fors France | System for presentation of self-service items |
US20220154495A1 (en) * | 2020-11-17 | 2022-05-19 | Se-Kure Controls, Inc. | Security system for portable consumer article |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2009051998A1 (en) | 2009-04-23 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090095695A1 (en) | Merchandise display hook having interlocking time delay arms | |
US8235223B2 (en) | Eyewear display system | |
US8794453B2 (en) | Security hook for product display | |
US20190136577A1 (en) | Locking device for product display hooks, showcases, cabinets, fixtures, and casework | |
US20060157431A1 (en) | Display rod lock mechanism | |
US20090057244A1 (en) | Merchandise display with time delay mechanism | |
US20050073413A1 (en) | Alarming merchandise display system | |
CA2380225C (en) | Advertising display device | |
US20060266899A1 (en) | Anti-sweep assembly and apparatus | |
US9468315B2 (en) | Theft deterrent device for product display systems | |
JP2009539547A (en) | Lock mechanism for display bar | |
CA2389837A1 (en) | Security device for preventing rapid removal of merchandise | |
CA2813217A1 (en) | Eyewear display system | |
AU2012201638B2 (en) | Anti-sweep hook device | |
JP2009509240A (en) | Display rod security device | |
US20050279894A1 (en) | Locking base for display hook | |
US20090266953A1 (en) | Conversion bracket for display hook | |
US2916156A (en) | Display device | |
JP4233216B2 (en) | Anti-theft device for displaying products | |
RU2477971C2 (en) | Bracket attached to panel | |
GB2287059A (en) | Security locking apparatus | |
GB2368182A (en) | Retail article support device | |
US11647850B2 (en) | Anti-sweep merchandise display hook | |
AU2013205540A1 (en) | Eyewear display system | |
JP3098025U (en) | Display device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: INVUE SECURITY PRODUCTS, INC., NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MOOCK, ANDREW W.;GOLDSTEIN, MITCHELL STEVEN;CONTI, BRIAN VINCENT;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:020647/0112;SIGNING DATES FROM 20080226 TO 20080227 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |