WO2016200872A1

WO2016200872A1 - Merchandise security key having near field communication (nfc) functionality

Info

Publication number: WO2016200872A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/036339
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary A. TAYLOR
Original assignee: Invue Security Products Inc.
Priority date: 2015-06-09
Filing date: 2016-06-08
Publication date: 2016-12-15

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a merchandise security device, system, and method for displaying an item of merchandise and protecting the merchandise from theft. A merchandise security system includes a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for communicating with a merchandise security device having NFC functionality. Based on information obtained from the merchandise security device, the merchandise security key is configured to transfer electrical power to operate a passive electronic lock and/or an Infrared (IR) transceiver of the merchandise security device.

Description

MERCHANDISE SECURITY KEY HAVING NEAR

FIELD COMMUNICATION (NFC) FUNCTIONALITY

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit to priority of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 62/172,872 filed on June 9, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to merchandise security devices, systems, and methods for displaying an item of merchandise and protecting the merchandise from theft. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality operable for communicating with a merchandise security device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is common practice for retailers to display relatively expensive items of merchandise on or within a merchandise security device, such as a security display (e.g., an alarming merchandise stand), a security fixture (e.g., a locking merchandise hook or cabinet), or security packaging (e.g., a locking merchandise keeper or safer). The merchandise security device displays the item of merchandise so that a customer may examine, and in some instances, interact with the merchandise when deciding whether to purchase the item. At the same time, the merchandise is secured on or within the merchandise security device so as to prevent, or at least deter, theft of the merchandise.

[0004] Oftentimes, a merchandise security key is required to operate the merchandise security device. In the case of a security display, the merchandise security key may be used to arm and/or disarm the alarm circuit of a merchandise display stand. When the alarm circuit is armed, an audio and/or visual alarm is activated if the merchandise is removed or separated from the merchandise display stand. In the case of a security fixture or security packaging, the merchandise security key may be used to unlock a lock on the merchandise security device.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards merchandise security systems, merchandise security keys, and method. In one example, a merchandise security system includes a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality and a merchandise security device having NFC functionality. The merchandise security key is configured to communicate with the merchandise security device via NFC to determine whether the merchandise security key is authorized to operate the merchandise security device.

[0006] In another embodiment, a merchandise security key includes a housing defining an interior compartment and a source of electrical power disposed within the interior compartment of the housing. The merchandise security key has Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for determining whether to transfer power from the source of electrical power to a merchandise security device.

[0007] In one embodiment, a merchandise security key includes a housing defining an interior compartment and a source of electrical power disposed within the interior compartment of the housing. The merchandise security key has Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for communicating with a merchandise security device.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method includes providing a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for communicating with the merchandise security device via NFC. The merchandise security key comprising a source of electrical power. The method also includes positioning the merchandise security key in proximity to the merchandise security device to establish NFC between the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device for determining whether to transfer electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to operate the merchandise security device.

[0009] In one embodiment, a method includes communicating with a merchandise security device via Near Field Communication (NFC) and obtaining information from the merchandise security device via NFC. The method also includes transferring electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to operate the merchandise security device based on the information.

[0010] In one embodiment, a method includes communicating with a merchandise security device via Near Field Communication (NFC) and obtaining information from the merchandise security device via NFC.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0014] FIG. 4A illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 4B illustrates the merchandise security device of FIG. 4A displaying a Smartphone.

[0016] FIG. 5 A illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 5B illustrates the merchandise security device of FIG. 5A in communication with a merchandise security key.

[0018] FIG. 6A illustrates a merchandise security device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 6B illustrates the merchandise security device of FIG. 5A in communication with a merchandise security key.

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a merchandise security device in communication with a merchandise security key according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a merchandise security key according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 8A illustrates the merchandise security key of FIG. 8 with a portion of the housing removed.

[0023] FIG. 9 illustrates a programming station in communication with a merchandise security key according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Referring now to the accompanying drawing figures wherein like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the various views, one or more embodiments of a merchandise security device, system and method for displaying an item of merchandise and protecting the merchandise from theft are shown. Embodiments of the present invention include an electronic merchandise security key with Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality operable for communicating with and obtaining information from a merchandise security device. More particularly, the merchandise security key reads information stored on a NFC tag disposed within, attached to, or otherwise coupled to the merchandise security device. Based on the information obtained from the NFC tag, the merchandise security key may determine whether a security code of the merchandise security device matches a security code of the key. If the security codes match, the key may then transfer, induce or generate electrical power from an internal power source of the key to operate a passive electronic lock or a passive electronic locking mechanism on the merchandise security device. An electronic merchandise security key according to embodiments of the present invention is suitable for use with a security display, such as an alarming merchandise display stand or puck, a security fixture, such as a locking merchandise hook or cabinet, or security packaging, such a locking merchandise keeper or safer.

[0025] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a variety of embodiments of merchandise security devices, and more particularly, examples of a security display in the form of an alarming merchandise stand 10, 20, 30, commonly referred to as a "POD," for displaying an electronic item of merchandise and protecting the merchandise from theft. By way of example and not limitation, FIG. 1 shows alarming merchandise display stand 10 configured to display and protect a digital camera 12 from theft. FIG. 2 shows alarming merchandise display stand 20 configured to display and protect a mobile telephone, such as a Smartphone 22, from theft. FIG. 3 shows alarming merchandise display stand 30 configured to display and protect an electronic computing device, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) 32, from theft. FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate an embodiment of a security display in the form of an alarming merchandise display stand 40, commonly referred to as a "puck," for displaying an electronic item of merchandise and protecting the merchandise from theft. By way of example and not limitation, FIG. 4B shows the alarming merchandise display stand 40 configured to display a Smartphone 42 on a vertical support surface, such as a wall, pegboard or the like, and to protect the Smartphone from theft.

[0026] An electronic circuit disposed within base 14, 24, 34, 44 of the corresponding alarming merchandise display stand 10, 20, 30, 40 is operable for arming, disarming, activating (turning on) and/or deactivating (turning off) an audio and/or visible alarm provided on the merchandise display stand. As shown and described herein, each of the alarming merchandise stands 10, 20, 30, 40 may have a transfer port 16, 26, 36, 46 disposed, for example, on the base 14, 24, 34, 44 of the merchandise display stand. The transfer port 16, 26, 36, 46 contains or is otherwise in communication with an inductive coil (not visible) that is operable for cooperating with an inductive coil of a merchandise security key to transfer electrical power from an internal power source of the key to operate a passive electronic lock or a passive electronic locking mechanism on the merchandise stand 10, 20, 30, 40, as will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

[0027] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an embodiment of a merchandise security device, and more particularly, a security fixture in the form of a locking merchandise hook 50, for displaying at least one item of merchandise and for protecting the merchandise from theft. By way of example and not limitation, FIGS. 5A-5B show a locking merchandise hook 50 configured to display and protect a plurality of audio accessories 52, namely Bluetooth headsets, from theft. The audio accessories 52 are suspended from a lower rod 53 of the locking merchandise hook, while a locking nose 54 is moveably mounted on an upper rod 55 of the merchandise hook. The locking nose 54 is removably locked to the lower rod 53 and movable along the upper rod 55 away from the lower rod so that one or more of the audio accessories 52 may be removed from the lower rod when the locking nose of the locking merchandise hook 50 is in an unlocked configuration.

[0028] An electronic circuit disposed within the locking nose 54 of the locking merchandise hook 50 is operable to unlock a passive electronic lock or a passive electronic locking mechanism configured for locking the locking nose 54 on the lower rod 53 of the merchandise hook. If desired, the electronic circuit of the locking merchandise hook 50 may also be operable for arming, disarming, activating (turning on) and/or deactivating (turning off) an audio and/or visible alarm provided on the merchandise hook. As shown and described herein, the locking merchandise hook 50 is further provided with a transfer port 56 disposed, for example, on the locking nose 54 of the merchandise hook. The transfer port 56 contains or is otherwise in communication with an inductive coil (not shown) operable for cooperating with an inductive coil of a merchandise security key 80 to transfer electrical power from an internal power source of the key to operate a passive electronic lock or locking mechanism on the locking nose 54 of the merchandise hook 50, as will be described in greater detail hereinafter. If desired, the merchandise hook 50 may further comprise a locking base 57 for locking the merchandise hook to a vertical support surface, such as a slat wall, pegboard or the like. The locking base 57 may be provided with a transfer port 58 containing or is otherwise in communication with an inductive coil (not shown) for cooperating with the inductive coil of the merchandise security key 80 to transfer electrical power from an internal power source of the key and thereby operate a passive electronic lock or locking mechanism on the locking base of the merchandise hook 50 in a similar manner.

[0029] FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate another embodiment of a merchandise security device, and more particularly, a security fixture in the form of a locking merchandise cabinet 60, for displaying an item of merchandise and for protecting the merchandise from theft. By way of example and not limitation, FIGS. 6A-6B show locking merchandise cabinet 60 configured to display and protect a plurality of electronic wearables 62 from theft. The electronic wearables 62 may be disposed within the merchandise cabinet 60 behind a pair opposing, substantially transparent, sliding cabinet doors 61, 63, while a locking base 64 is moveably mounted on one of the cabinet doors. The locking base 64 may be removably locked to a strike plate 65 mounted on the other one of the cabinet doors 61, 63 so that at least one of the opposing, sliding cabinet doors may be moved to permit access to the items of merchandise 62 behind the sliding cabinet doors when the locking merchandise cabinet 60 is in an unlocked configuration. [0030] An electronic circuit disposed within the locking base 64 of the locking merchandise cabinet 60 is operable to unlock a passive electronic lock or a passive electronic locking mechanism configured for locking the locking base 64 on the strike plate 65 of the other one of the opposing, sliding cabinet doors 61, 63 of the merchandise cabinet. If desired, the electronic circuit of the locking merchandise cabinet 60 may also be operable for arming, disarming, activating (turning on) and/or deactivating (turning off) an audio and/or visible alarm provided on the merchandise cabinet. As shown and described herein, the locking merchandise cabinet 60 further has a transfer port 66 disposed, for example, on the locking base 64 of the merchandise cabinet. The transfer port 66 contains or is otherwise in communication with an inductive coil (not shown) operable for cooperating with an inductive coil of a merchandise security key 80 to transfer electrical power from an internal power source of the key to operate a passive electronic lock or locking mechanism on the locking base 64 of the merchandise cabinet 60, as will be described in greater detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, the electronic lock is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,860,574, entitled Cabinet Lock for Use With Programmable Electronic Key, filed September 28, 2012, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a merchandise security device, and more particularly, security packaging in the form of a locking merchandise safer 70, for displaying and protecting an item of merchandise from theft. By way of example and not limitation, FIG. 7 shows locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70 configured to display and protect a single communications accessory 72, namely a mobile telephone case, from theft. The communications accessory 72 is disposed within an interior compartment of a container 73 of the locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70, while a locking base 74 is moveably mounted on the container. The locking base 74 is removably locked to the container 73 and movable relative to the container away from the interior compartment so that the item of merchandise 72 may be removed from the interior compartment of the container 73 when the locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70 is in an unlocked configuration.

[0032] An electronic circuit disposed within the locking base 74 of the locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70 is operable to unlock the passive electronic lock or locking mechanism for locking the locking base 74 on the container 73 of the merchandise keeper, or safer 70. If desired, the electronic circuit of the locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70 may also be operable for arming, disarming, activating (turning on) and/or deactivating (turning off) an audio and/or visible alarm provided on the merchandise keeper, or safer. As shown and described herein, the locking merchandise safer 70 further has a transfer port 76 disposed, for example, on the underside of the locking base 74 of the merchandise keeper, or safer. The transfer port 76 contains or is otherwise in communication with an inductive coil (not shown) operable for cooperating with an inductive coil of a merchandise security key 80 to transfer electrical power from an internal power source of the key to operate a passive electronic lock or locking mechanism on the locking base 74 of the merchandise safer 70, as will be described in greater detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, the locking merchandise safer 70 is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2015/0013398, entitled Merchandise Security Devices for Use with an Electronic Key, filed July 10, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0033] FIGS. 8A-8B show a merchandise security key 80, according to an embodiment of the present invention, for use with a merchandise security device having an electronic alarm circuit and/or a passive electronic lock or a passive electronic locking mechanism. As shown, key 80 comprises a housing 82 defining a generally hollow interior compartment 81 for housing electronic components of the key. By way of example and not limitation, the housing 82 may be formed from a housing bottom portion 82A and a housing top portion 82B that are joined together, for example, by ultrasonic welding, to enclose and protect the electronic components of the key 80.

[0034] FIG. 8B shows that an embodiment of the merchandise security key 80 comprises an electronic circuit 84, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), and an internal source of electrical power 85, such as a capacitor or battery, operably coupled with the circuit board to provide electrical power to the electronic components of the key 80. The key 80 further comprises an actuator button 86 positioned over the electronic circuit 84 and accessible from the exterior of housing 82 so as to be operably coupled with the electronic circuit 84 in an actuated position. For example, actuator button 86 may be biased outwardly away from electronic circuit 84 and electrically connect a pair of electrical power leads disposed on the electronic circuit when the actuator button is depressed to provide electrical power from battery 85 to the electronic circuit when the actuator button is depressed. In the embodiments shown and described herein, housing 82 defines a transfer probe 88 at one end and the merchandise security key 80 further comprises an inductive coil 89 disposed within the transfer probe 88 portion of the key for a purpose to be described hereinafter.

[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates a programming station 90 for use with the merchandise security key 80. If desired, battery 85 may be a rechargeable battery and programming station 90 may also provide charging capability for the battery of the key. As such, station 90 may be a combination programming and/or charging station. Regardless, station 90 comprises a housing 92 that has at least one transfer port 94 provided on an exterior of the housing. Station 90 may also be provided with one or more status indicators 96 on the exterior of housing 92 for indicating the status of the operation of the station. In one embodiment, the status indicators 96 are a series of different colored light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that illuminate to indicate that station 90 is operating to perform a particular function, such as assigning a security code to the key 80 or charging the key. If desired, station 90 may also comprise a mechanical lock 98 for permitting only an authorized person in possession of a corresponding mechanical key (not shown) to operate the station 90.

[0036] Regardless, station 90 may operate to assign, or program, the mechanical security key 80 with a security code. By way of example and not limitation, the security code may be a unique alphanumeric code that is randomly generated and unknown to any person such that the security code cannot be replicated on any other key 80. In another embodiment, the security code may be a preselected unique alphanumeric code that is assigned to a particular retail store such that all keys 80 programmed by the station 90 will be operable with any merchandise security device at that retail store that is programmed with the same unique alphanumeric security code. Regardless, the merchandise security key 80 programmed by station 90 with a security code operates to transfer the security code to a merchandise security device having an electronic alarm circuit and a transfer port, such as any of the alarming merchandise display stands 10, 20, 30 shown in FIGS. 1-3. The security code may be transferred when the transfer probe 88 of the merchandise security key 80 is positioned over or proximate to the transfer port provided on the merchandise security device and the actuator button 86 is depressed for the first time. In other words, the key 80 is used to "initialize" the merchandise security device with the security code. Thereafter, when the transfer probe 88 is positioned over or proximate to the transfer port and actuator button 86 is depressed, merchandise security key 80 determines whether the merchandise security device is programmed with a security code that matches the security code of the key. If the security codes match, the electronic alarm circuit of the merchandise security device is armed, disarmed, activated or deactivated, depending on the current status of the electronic alarm circuit.

[0037] As previously mentioned, merchandise security key 80 may comprise an inductive coil 89 operable for transferring electrical power from the battery 85 of the key to a merchandise security device. The inductive coil 89 may be disposed within a transfer probe 88 of the key that is configured to be positioned over or proximate to a corresponding transfer port provided on the exterior of the merchandise security device. The transfer port contains a corresponding inductive coil that is likewise operable for transferring the electrical power from the key to the merchandise security device. More specifically, the electronic circuit 84 of the key may cause an electric current to be passed through the inductive coil 89 when the actuator button 86 is depressed. The electric current passing through the inductive coil 89 generates a magnetic field within the inductive coil. When the inductive coil 89 of the key 80 is in close proximity to the corresponding inductive coil of the merchandise security device, the magnetic field induces an electric current through the inductive coil of the merchandise security device. The induced electric current is routed to an electronic circuit disposed within the merchandise security device and provided to operate an electronic lock or electronic locking mechanism.

[0038] In one embodiment, the merchandise security key 80 is further provided with Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality operable for communicating with, such as to obtain information from, a merchandise security device. In some instances, key 80 comprises NFC functionality in the form of one or more NFC tags, chips, or stickers, for facilitating NFC with another device having NFC functionality, such as a merchandise security device of the type shown and described herein. In this regard, a merchandise security key 80 comprising a NFC tag 12A may communicate with the merchandise security device comprising a NFC tag 12 via NFC to transmit data when the key and the merchandise security device are positioned in direct contact with or proximate to one another. The NFC tag 12, 12A of the key 80 and/or the merchandise security device may have an antenna for effectuating NFC with other keys and/or devices having NFC functionality. Regardless, the NFC tags 12, 12A of the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device may be configured to communicate wirelessly with one another to thereby exchange data and/or authorize certain operations of the merchandise security device, including without limitation, locking and/or unlocking a passive electronic lock or passive electronic locking mechanism on the merchandise security device. In some embodiments, the key and merchandise security device may include similar functionality to that disclosed in U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2015/0077232, entitled Near Field Communication Devices for Merchandise Security, filed on September 16, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0039] The NFC tags 12, 12A may also be configured to recognize one another such that only particular NFC tags are programmed to communicate with one another. For example, the NFC tag 12 associated with the merchandise security device may be configured to read data from the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80, or vice versa, the NFC tag of the key may be configured to read data from the NFC tag associated with the merchandise security device. In particular, the NFC tags 12, 12A may be programmed in any suitable manner to include data that allows the key 80 and the merchandise security device to communicate with one another and to recognize one another. In one embodiment, the NFC tag 12 of the key 80 may include a security code or identifier, and the merchandise security device may be programmed with the same security code or identifier. In the event that the security code of the merchandise security device matches the security code of the key 80, the merchandise security device is then operated, for example via an electronic circuit disposed within the merchandise security device, to activate or deactivate an alarm circuit and/or to actuate a lock or a lock mechanism between a locked and an unlocked configuration. It is understood that the NFC tags 12, 12A of the merchandise security key 80 and the merchandise security device may be active or passive and that the term "tag" is meant to be interpreted broadly, as the tag may be a chip, sticker, processor, controller, electronic circuit or the like that includes NFC functionality. As used herein, the term "passive" is intended to mean that the lock is not powered, or is not powered by an internal source of power.

[0040] In one embodiment, the merchandise security device may further comprise a switch that is in communication with a processor and the processor may be configured to activate the switch to thereby actuate the lock or locking mechanism in response to receiving a signal from the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80. Therefore, upon detecting matching NFC tags 12, 12A, the processor is configured to activate the switch and actuate the lock or locking mechanism, for example, from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. In some embodiments, the merchandise security device may also include an internal source of electrical power, such as a conventional capacitor or battery. However, in other embodiments, the merchandise security device may not include an internal power source, and as such, is electrically "passive." In this case, the merchandise security key 80 may contain an internal source of electrical power 85, such as a conventional extended-life or rechargeable battery, capacitor or the like, that is configured to transfer electrical power to the merchandise security device for at least the purpose of operating the passive electronic lock or passive electronic locking mechanism. The merchandise security key 80 may transfer electrical power to the merchandise security device in any suitable manner, such as by electrical contacts, acoustical transmission (e.g. RF signals), or magnetic induction, in the manner previously described.

[0041] As previously mentioned, the merchandise security device may include a locking mechanism configured to move between locked and unlocked configurations. By way of example and not limitation, the locking mechanism may be a mechanical lock including an actuator that is configured to move linearly between an extended position and a retracted position. However, it is understood that the locking mechanism may be any suitable mechanism that is configured to move between locked and unlocked positions, such as a plunger, cam, or the like for facilitating mechanical actuation. The merchandise security device may be provided with an electric motor, DC stepper motor, solenoid, or the like, that is in communication with a processor and powered by a source of electrical power to activate a switch and/or actuate the locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the merchandise security key 80 may be configured to transfer electrical power to the merchandise security device for operating the locking mechanism. By way of example and not limitation, the merchandise security device may comprise a conductor coupled to an electronic locking mechanism including an actuator, and when electrical power transferred from the key 80 is conducted through the conductor, a state change occurs thereby resulting in operation of the locking mechanism. In one exemplary embodiment, the conductor is coupled to a shape memory material (e.g., Nitinol) such that electrical power transferred from the merchandise security key 80 and through the conductor results in a change in shape of the shape memory material (e.g., contraction). The change in shape may cause a mechanical actuation (e.g., linear or rotary) of the actuator to thereby lock or unlock the locking mechanism. Suitable shape memory materials and their use for a locking mechanism may be found in, for example, U.S. Patent Publ. No. 2015/0013398, entitled Merchandise Security Devices for Use With an Electronic Key, filed on July 10, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] The merchandise security key 80 is configured to at least unlock the lock or locking mechanism from the locked configuration. The key 80 may also place the lock or locking mechanism of the merchandise security device back into the locked configuration after a component of the merchandise security device is manually moved to a closed position. It may be desirable that the merchandise security key 80 is required to both unlock and lock (or re-lock) the lock or locking mechanism of the merchandise security device so that an authorized person, such as a sales associate, responsible for unlocking merchandise security device is held accountable for locking the merchandise security device after each time his or her key is used to unlock the security device. For example, the electronic circuit 84 disposed within the housing 82 of the merchandise security key 80 may be used to assign a unique identifier corresponding to the user of the key to a memory, and to thereafter record the date and time into the memory each time the key is used to actuate the lock or locking mechanism of the merchandise security device. In some embodiments, a successful activation of the lock or locking mechanism occurs, for example, when a security code of a programmable merchandise security key 80 matches a security code assigned to the merchandise security device.

[0043] Regardless, the merchandise security key 80 need only be positioned in contact with, proximate, or adjacent to the merchandise security device for actuating the lock or locking mechanism of the merchandise security device via NFC. For example, the merchandise security key 80 may actuate the lock or locking mechanism simply by being placed in proximity to the merchandise security device to thereby initiate communication between the key and the merchandise security device via NFC. If desired, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80 may be programmed to communicate with the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device within a particular distance, such as, for example, within about 5 inches or less, or within about 3 inches or less, or within about 1 inch or less. Thus, a user of the merchandise security key 80 may not be required to manually depress the actuator button 86 of the key. In addition, the merchandise security device does not necessarily require an interface, such as a transfer port, for interacting with a feature of the merchandise security key 80, such as transfer probe 88, so that contactless communication between the key and the merchandise security device may occur. In other embodiments, the contactless communication between the key 80 and the merchandise security device may permit the transfer probe 88 and the transfer port to interact in the manner previously described to arm, disarm, activate or deactivate an alarm circuit via Infrared (IR) transmission between the key and the merchandise security device. Alternatively, the NFC between the merchandise security key 80 and the merchandise security device may directly arm, disarm, activate or deactivate an alarm circuit of the merchandise security device. Still further, the NFC between the key 80 and the merchandise security device may permit the key to transfer electrical power to the merchandise security device to operate a passive electronic lock or passive electronic locking mechanism in the manner previously described.

[0044] If desired, the inductive coil 89 of the merchandise security key 80 may operate as an NFC antenna for the key. However, an NFC antenna may be located, positioned or disposed anywhere on or within the housing 82 of the key 80. A merchandise security device, such as security display 10, 20, 30, 40, security fixture 50, 60, or security packaging 70, may be provided with an NFC tag 12. By way of example and not limitation, an NFC tag 12 may be disposed within the base 14, 24, 34, 44 of the corresponding merchandise security display stand 10, 20, 30, 40, within the locking nose 54 of the locking merchandise hook 50, within the locking base 64 of the locking merchandise cabinet 60, or within the locking base 74 of the locking merchandise keeper, or safer, 70. Regardless, merchandise security key 80 having NFC functionality is configured to communicate with and identify any merchandise security device, such as the merchandise security devices 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 depicted in FIGS. 1-3, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, 6A-6B and 7, having NFC functionality whether or not the merchandise security device comprises an internal source of power. By way of example and not limitation, merchandise security key 80 may be configured to communicate with and identify the merchandise security display stand 10, 20, 30 (e.g.., a POD) even if the POD has no electrical power because a battery has not been installed, a battery activation tab has not been removed, or an installed and activated battery has no electrical charge. Likewise, merchandise security key 80 may be configured to communicate with and identify a passive locking merchandise hook 50, the locking merchandise cabinet 60 and/or the locking merchandise keeper, or safer 70.

[0045] In one embodiment, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80 and/or the NFC tags 12 of the merchandise security devices may be initialized at the time the security devices are installed with an item of merchandise in a retail store. At the time of initialization and installation, the NFC tags 12, 12A are provided with electronic data in the form of relevant information, for example, a retail store identification, a display area or "zone" identification within the retail store, the type of item of merchandise being displayed and protected on or within the merchandise security device, a security code for permitting operation of an alarm circuit and/or an electronic lock or electronic locking mechanism, etc. In some embodiments, the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security devices may also contain a list of merchandise security keys 80 authorized to operate the alarm circuit and/or the electronic lock or electronic locking mechanism.

[0046] In a particular embodiment, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80 activates the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device when the key is positioned within a preselected minimum distance from the merchandise security device. However, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key and the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device may not be configured with enough electrical power to operate an alarm circuit and/or an electronic lock or electronic locking mechanism of the merchandise security device. In this circumstance, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80 may then communicate with the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device to determine whether the key is authorized to operate the merchandise security device. If communication between the NFC tags 12, 12A establishes that the key 80 is authorized to operate the merchandise security device (for example a security code of the key matches a security code of the merchandise security device), the merchandise security key transfers electrical power to the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device to thereby operate an alarm circuit (in the case of an alarming security display) and/or a passive electronic lock or passive electronic locking mechanism (in the case of a locking security fixture or locking security packaging). Alternatively, the successful communication between the NFC tags 12, 12A may "wake" the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device to receive an Infrared (IR) transmission of a security code or a query for a security code from the key. In the event that the security code of the key 80 and the merchandise security device match, the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device is authorized to arm, disarm, activate or deactivate the alarm circuit. As previously mentioned and described, the key 80 may apply electrical power from battery 85 to inductive coil 89 to thereby generate a magnetic field and induce an electrical current in the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device to operate the passive electronic lock or passive electronic locking mechanism.

[0047] In addition, the NFC tag 12A of the merchandise security key 80 may be configured to read information from the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device and to store the information obtained from the NFC tag of the merchandise security device within a memory of the key. If desired, the information obtained from the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device may then be downloaded from the memory of the merchandise security key 80 to a computing device, such as a personal computer, tablet, Smartphone, etc., and used for data extraction purposes, for example, an inventory tracking application or an audit tracking application in a Smart retail environment. The information obtained from the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device may also be used to audit the activity and/or movement of store personnel, such as sales associates, in the retail store. By way of example and not limitation, each sales associate would be required to present a merchandise security key 80 having NFC functionality (e.g., a NFC tag 12A) to a merchandise security device having NFC functionality (e.g., a NFC tag 12) at a predetermined location and at predetermined times. The memory of the merchandise security key 80 would then record the location of the merchandise security device and the time the key was presented to the merchandise security device to be downloaded to the audit tracking application for the purpose of determining where and when each sales associate "clocked in" and/or "clocked out" in a manner similar to a clock-card.

[0048] NFC between a merchandise security key 80 having NFC functionality (e.g., a NFC tag 12A) and a merchandise security device having NFC functionality (e.g., a NFC tag 12) may also be used to prevent an unauthorized key from "cross-coding" a merchandise security device that has not yet been programmed with a security code. By way of example and not limitation, a security display, such as an alarming merchandise display stand (e.g., a POD as depicted in FIGS. 1-3 or a puck as depicted FIGS. 4A-4B), may be configured to prevent a merchandise security key 80 from assigning a security code to the alarming merchandise display stand unless and until communication between the NFC tags 12, 12A of the key and the merchandise security device confirm that the key is authorized to operate the alarming merchandise display stand. By reading the NFC tag 12 of the merchandise security device before the merchandise security key 80 is permitted to initiate Infrared (IR) transmission to the alarming merchandise display stand, the key can determine whether the key is authorized to transmit the security code to the merchandise security device. If the merchandise security key is not authorized (i.e., an incorrect key), the key will not initiate Infrared (IR) transmission with the alarming merchandise display stand via the transfer probe 88 of the key and the transfer port of the merchandise security device.

[0049] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of a merchandise security device, system and method for displaying an item of merchandise and protecting the item of merchandise from theft. Embodiments of a merchandise security key and security devices having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality have been shown and described herein for the purpose of enabling one or ordinary skill in the art to make, use and practice the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art, however, will readily understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and intended broad scope of the invention. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A merchandise security system comprising:

a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality; and a merchandise security device having NFC functionality;

wherein the merchandise security key is configured to communicate with the merchandise security device via NFC to determine whether the merchandise security key is authorized to operate the merchandise security device.

2. The merchandise security system of Claim 1, wherein the merchandise security key comprises a housing and a source of electrical power disposed within the housing.

3. The merchandise security system of Claim 2, wherein the merchandise security key is operable for transferring electrical power to the merchandise security device if the merchandise security key is authorized to operate the merchandise security device.

4. The merchandise security system of Claim 3, wherein the merchandise security device comprises an electronic lock and wherein the merchandise security key is configured to transfer electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to the merchandise security device to operate the electronic lock.

5. The merchandise security system of Claim 4, wherein the merchandise security key further comprises an electronic circuit electrically coupled with the source of electrical power and an inductive coil electrically coupled with the electronic circuit, and wherein the merchandise security device further comprises an electronic circuit electrically coupled with the electronic lock and an inductive coil electrically coupled with the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device.

6. The merchandise security system of Claim 5, wherein the electronic circuit of the merchandise security key is configured to pass an electric current through the inductive coil of the merchandise security key to thereby generate a magnetic field, and wherein the magnetic field is configured to induce an electric current to pass through the inductive coil of the merchandise security device to thereby transfer electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device.

7. The merchandise security system of Claim 6, wherein the electrical power transferred to the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device is configured to actuate the electronic lock between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

8. The merchandise security system of Claim 5, wherein the inductive coil of the merchandise security key is disposed within a transfer probe defined by the housing, and wherein the inductive coil of the merchandise security device is disposed within a transfer port provided on an exterior of the merchandise security device.

9. The merchandise security system of Claim 1, wherein the merchandise security key comprises an Infrared (IR) transceiver for transmitting an IR transmission to the merchandise security device and for receiving an IR transmission from the merchandise security device, and wherein the merchandise security device comprises an Infrared (IR) transceiver for receiving the IR transmission from the merchandise security key and for transmitting the IR transmission to the merchandise security key.

10. The merchandise security system of Claim 9, wherein the IR transmission transmitted to the merchandise security key from the merchandise security device comprises a security code.

11. The merchandise security system of Claim 10, wherein the merchandise security key comprises an electronic circuit electrically coupled with the Infrared (IR) transceiver of the merchandise security key and wherein the merchandise security device comprises an electronic circuit electrically coupled with the Infrared (IR) transceiver of the merchandise security device.

12. The merchandise security system of Claim 11, wherein the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device is configured to operate an alarm circuit of the merchandise security device in the event that the security code transmitted by the merchandise security device matches a security code programmed to the merchandise security key.

13. The merchandise security system of Claim 1, wherein each of the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device comprises a NFC tag for communicating via NFC.

14. The merchandise security system of Claim 13, wherein the NFC tag of the merchandise security key is configured to read information from the NFC tag of the merchandise security device and to store the information obtained from the NFC tag of the merchandise security device within a memory of the merchandise security key.

15. The merchandise security system of Claim 1, wherein the merchandise security key is configured to obtain information from the merchandise security device via NFC for identifying the merchandise security device and determining whether the merchandise security device has a power source.

16. A merchandise security key comprising:

a housing defining an interior compartment;

a source of electrical power disposed within the interior compartment of the housing;

an electronic circuit disposed within the interior compartment of the housing and electrically coupled with the source of electrical power;

wherein the merchandise security key has Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for determining whether to transfer power from the source of electrical power to a merchandise security device.

17. The merchandise security key of Claim 16, further comprising an inductive coil disposed within the housing and electrically coupled with the electronic circuit.

18. The merchandise security key of Claim 17, wherein the inductive coil is configured to function as an antenna for NFC with the merchandise security device.

19. The merchandise security key of Claim 17, wherein the merchandise security device comprises an electronic circuit and an inductive coil electrically coupled with the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device.

20. The merchandise security key of Claim 19, wherein the electronic circuit of the merchandise security key is configured to pass an electric current through the inductive coil of the merchandise security key to generate a magnetic field based on the information.

21. The merchandise security key of Claim 20, wherein the magnetic field generated by the inductive coil of the merchandise security key is configured to induce an electric current through the inductive coil of the merchandise security device.

22. The merchandise security key of Claim 21, wherein the merchandise security device further comprises a passive electronic lock electrically coupled with the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device, and wherein the electric current induced through the inductive coil of the merchandise security device is configured to operate the passive electronic lock between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

23. The merchandise security key of Claim 15, wherein each of the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device further comprises an Infrared (IR) transceiver, and wherein the IR transceiver of at least one of the merchandise security key or the merchandise security device is configured to transmit a security code to the other of the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device based on the information.

24. The merchandise security key of Claim 23, wherein the merchandise security device further comprises an alarm circuit, and wherein the security code is configured to permit the electronic circuit of the merchandise security device to operate the alarm circuit.

25. The merchandise security key of Claim 16, wherein each of merchandise security key and the merchandise security device comprises a NFC tag for communication via NFC.

26. The merchandise security key of Claim 24, wherein the NFC tag of the merchandise security key is configured to read information from the NFC tag of the merchandise security device and to store the information obtained from the NFC tag of the merchandise security device within a memory of the merchandise security key.

27. The merchandise security key of Claim 16, wherein the merchandise security key is configured to obtain information from the merchandise security device via NFC for identifying the merchandise security device and determining whether the merchandise security device has a power source.

28. A method for communicating with a merchandise security device, the method comprising:

providing a merchandise security key having Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for communicating with the merchandise security device via NFC, the merchandise security key comprising a source of electrical power;

positioning the merchandise security key in proximity to the merchandise security device to establish NFC between the merchandise security key and the merchandise security device for determining whether to transfer electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to operate the merchandise security device.

29. A method for communicating with a merchandise security device, the method comprising:

communicating with a merchandise security device via Near Field Communication (NFC);

obtaining information from the merchandise security device via NFC; and

transferring electrical power from the source of electrical power of the merchandise security key to operate the merchandise security device based on the information.

30. The method of Claim 29, further comprising identifying the merchandise security device based on the information.

31. The method of Claim 29, further comprising determining whether the merchandise security device has a power source based on the information.

32. A merchandise security key comprising:

a housing defining an interior compartment; and

a source of electrical power disposed within the interior compartment of the housing, wherein the merchandise security key has Near Field Communication (NFC) functionality for communicating with a merchandise security device.

33. A method for communicating with a merchandise security device, the method comprising:

communicating with a merchandise security device via Near Field Communication (NFC); and obtaining information from the merchandise security device via NFC.