PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11221101-B2
Application Number: US-202016805185-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Product-display system

Abstract:
A product-display system for displaying and securing a retail product. The system may include a retainer having a retainer bracket and a retainer body coupled to the retainer bracket. A retaining cable may be coupled to the retainer body at an opening in the retainer body. A fastener that may be unfastened to release the product from the retainer may only be accessed through the opening of the retainer body such that when the retaining cable is coupled to the opening, no fasteners of the retainer may be visible or accessible. The system may also include a display stem for holding the retainer and product. The display stem may include a recess for receiving at least a portion of the retainer body. The retaining cable may extend through the display stem and may simultaneously transmit power and data to a displayed product. The retainer may be returned to and held on top of the display stem using a retaining cable. The retainer may be oriented on top of the display stem in one or more predetermined positions through the use of magnetic forces.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A product-display system, comprising:
 a retainer for retaining a displayed product, the retainer comprising a retainer body, the retainer body comprising a magnet array, the magnet array comprising:
 a plurality of first magnets disposed radially around a central axis and having alternating positive and negative polar orientations, wherein the magnetic axis of each of the first magnets in the plurality of first magnets is disposed in a radial direction relative to the central axis; and 
 a plurality of second magnets disposed radially around the central axis and having alternating positive and negative polar orientations, wherein the magnetic axis of each of the second magnets in the plurality of second magnets is disposed in a tangential direction relative to the central axis, 
 wherein first magnets of the plurality of first magnets are disposed adjacent to second magnets of the plurality of second magnets, and wherein at least one second magnet of the plurality of second magnets is disposed between two first magnets of the plurality of first magnets, and at least one first magnet of the plurality of first magnets is disposed between two second magnets of the plurality of second magnets; and 
 
 a display stem having a recess configured to receive the retainer and comprising a magnet array, 
 wherein magnetic interaction between the magnet array of the retainer body and the magnet array of the display stem causes rotation of the retainer to at least one predefined orientation when at least a portion of the retainer is disposed within the recess of the display stem, if the retainer is not in the predefined orientation. 
 
     
     
       2. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein the retainer comprises four and no more than four predefined orientations relative to the display stem. 
     
     
       3. The product-display system of  claim 2 , wherein the four predefined orientations are separated by 90 degrees of rotation of the retainer body within the recess of the display stand. 
     
     
       4. The product-display system of  claim 1 , further comprising a retaining cable comprising a plug, wherein the plug is coupled to a port disposed at an opening of the retainer body, and wherein the plug is free to rotate axially in the port relative to the retainer body. 
     
     
       5. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of first and second magnets in the magnet array of the retainer body comprises a curved outer surface. 
     
     
       6. The product-display system of  claim 5 , wherein the retainer body further comprises a curved outer surface, wherein the curvature of the outer surface of each of the plurality of first and second magnets in the magnet array of the retainer body is the same as the curvature of at least a portion of the curved outer surface of the retainer body. 
     
     
       7. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein each of the first magnets comprise two opposing flat sides and a curved side disposed between the two flat sides, wherein the two flat sides are disposed parallel to one another. 
     
     
       8. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein each of the second magnets comprise two opposing flat sides and a curved side disposed between the two flat sides, wherein the two flat sides are disposed at an oblique angle relative to one another. 
     
     
       9. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein the retainer body further comprises a second magnet array, wherein the first and second magnet arrays of the retainer body are each arranged in a circular arc centered on the central axis, wherein the first and second magnet arrays of the retainer body are spaced apart from one another, and wherein the first and second magnet arrays of the retainer body are disposed opposite each other across the central axis. 
     
     
       10. The product-display system of  claim 1 , wherein the magnet array of the display stem comprises:
 a plurality of first magnets disposed radially around a central axis and having alternating positive and negative polar orientations, wherein the magnetic axis of each of the first magnets in the plurality of first magnets is disposed in a radial direction relative to the central axis; and 
 a plurality of second magnets disposed radially around the central axis and having alternating positive and negative polar orientations, wherein the magnetic axis of each of the second magnets in the plurality of second magnets is disposed in a tangential direction relative to the central axis, 
 wherein first magnets of the plurality of first magnets are disposed adjacent to second magnets of the plurality of second magnets, and wherein at least one second magnet of the plurality of second magnets is disposed between two first magnets of the plurality of first magnets, and at least one first magnet of the plurality of first magnets is disposed between two second magnets of the plurality of second magnets. 
 
     
     
       11. The product-display system of  claim 10 , wherein the magnet array of the display stem is arranged in a circle around the central axis. 
     
     
       12. The product-display system of  claim 10 , wherein each of the plurality of first and second magnets in the magnet array of the display stem comprise a curved outer surface. 
     
     
       13. The product-display system of  claim 12 , wherein the recess of the display stem comprises a curved outer surface, and wherein the curvature of the outer surface of each of the plurality of first and second magnets in the magnet array of the display stem is the same as the curvature of at least a portion of the curved outer surface of the recess. 
     
     
       14. The product-display system of  claim 10 , wherein each of the second magnets of the magnet array of the retainer body comprise two opposing flat sides and a curved side disposed between the two flat sides, wherein the two flat sides are disposed at a first oblique angle relative to one another,
 wherein each of the second magnets of the magnet array of the display stem comprise two opposing flat sides and a curved side disposed between the two flat sides, wherein the two flat sides are disposed at a second oblique angle relative to one another, and 
 wherein the first and second oblique angles are the same. 
 
     
     
       15. A display system, comprising:
 a retainer, comprising:
 a retainer bracket configured to secure a displayed product, and 
 a retainer body coupled to the retainer bracket and comprising an edge, an opening, and a smooth outer surface extending continuously from the edge to the opening; 
 
 a display stem comprising a recess configured to receive the retainer body, wherein magnetic interaction between a magnet array of the retainer body and a magnet array of the display stem causes rotation of the retainer to at least one predefined orientation when at least a portion of the retainer body is disposed within the recess of the display stem, if the retainer body is not in the predefined orientation; 
 a retaining cable extending through the display stem and having a first end coupled to the retainer body at the opening; 
 a cable-retraction unit comprising a cable spool and a cable-biasing mechanism, wherein a second end of the retaining cable is coupled to the cable-retraction unit, wherein the retaining cable is spirally wound onto the cable spool in a single plane, and wherein the cable-biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to the cable, 
 a pulley assembly; and 
 a display surface, wherein the pulley assembly and the display stem are disposed on opposing sides of the display surface, and wherein fasteners extending between the pulley assembly and the display stem secure the display stem to the display surface. 
 
     
     
       16. The display system of  claim 15 , further comprising a retained product, wherein the retainer bracket comprises no more than two arms, wherein each arm comprises a hook disposed on an end of the arm, and wherein the product is retained between the hooks of the arms. 
     
     
       17. The display system of  claim 16 , wherein the arms of the retainer bracket are removably coupled together using a fastener, and wherein the fastener is not visible when the retaining cable is coupled to the retainer body. 
     
     
       18. The display system of  claim 16 , wherein the retained product is a consumer electronic device, and wherein the device is in electronic communication with the retaining cable through a connector of one of the bracket arms. 
     
     
       19. The display system of  claim 18 , wherein the connector is not visible when the product is retained by the retainer bracket. 
     
     
       20. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein when a user lifts the retainer off of the display stem, the cable-biasing mechanism provides a constant tension to the retaining cable as it is unwound from the cable spool, through the maximum extendable length of the retaining cable. 
     
     
       21. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein when a user lifts the retainer off of the display stem, the retaining cable smoothly unwinds from the cable spool, through the maximum extendable length of the retaining cable. 
     
     
       22. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein the first end of the retaining cable comprises a plug, wherein the retainer body further comprises a port at the opening for receiving the plug, and wherein the plug is free to rotate axially in the port relative to the retainer body when the retainer is disposed on the display stem and when a user lifts the retainer off of the display stem. 
     
     
       23. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein the display surface is a display mat. 
     
     
       24. The display system of  claim 23 , wherein the retaining cable extends over the pulley assembly between the retainer and the cable-retraction unit. 
     
     
       25. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein an orientation of the retaining cable is changed by the pulley assembly from extending horizontally below the display surface to extending vertically through the display surface and the display stem. 
     
     
       26. The display system of  claim 15 , wherein at least one of the magnet array of the retainer body and the magnet array of the display stem comprises an arrangement of magnets having a rotating pattern of magnetization that augments a magnetic field on one side of the magnet array and diminishes a magnetic field on an other side of the magnet array. 
     
     
       27. A display system, comprising:
 a retainer configured to secure a displayed product, wherein the retainer comprises a first magnet array comprising an arrangement of magnets that generates a magnetic field on one side of the first magnet array that is stronger than a magnetic field generated on an other side of the first magnet array, and 
 a display stem defining a recess configured to receive the retainer, wherein the display stem comprises a second magnet array comprising an arrangement of magnets that generates a magnetic field on one side of the second magnet array that is stronger than a magnetic field generated on an other side of the second magnet array, wherein magnetic interaction between the first magnet array and the second magnet array causes rotation of the retainer to at least one predefined orientation when at least a portion of the retainer is disposed within the recess of the display stem, if the retainer body is not in the predefined orientation; 
 a retaining cable extending through the display stem and having a first end coupled to the retainer; and 
 a cable-retraction unit comprising a cable spool and a cable-biasing mechanism, wherein a second end of the retaining cable is coupled to the cable-retraction unit, wherein the retaining cable is spirally wound onto the cable spool in a single plane, and wherein the cable-biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to the cable that tends to pull the first magnet array toward the second magnet array. 
 
     
     
       28. The display system of  claim 27 , wherein the cable spool comprises an upper portion and a lower portion spaced away from the upper portion by a distance that is less than twice a diameter of the retaining cable so that the retaining cable is spirally wound onto the cable spool between the upper portion and the lower portion in the single plane. 
     
     
       29. The display system of  claim 27 , wherein the retaining cable is configured to transmit electronic data and power simultaneously to a displayed product. 
     
     
       30. The display system of  claim 27 , wherein the stronger side of the first magnet array is disposed radially outward, and wherein the stronger side of the second magnet array is disposed radially inward.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/864,773, filed Jun. 21, 2019, titled “Product-Display System” and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/907,309, filed Sep. 27, 2019, titled “Product-Display System,” each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to product-display systems. More particularly, the embodiments relate to product-display systems for displaying and securing retail products. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A retailer or other person may desire to make a product available for use (e.g., for testing) by a potential purchaser or other person. In some cases, the retailer may further desire to limit the potential purchaser&#39;s ability to remove the product from a display area. 
     SUMMARY 
     Various embodiments are disclosed that relate to product-display systems for displaying products to potential purchasers in a visually-appealing manner. Such product-display systems may also make the displayed products available for use (e.g., for testing) by potential purchasers while limiting the potential purchaser&#39;s ability to remove the product from a display area. For example, embodiments include a product-display system having a retainer bracket with at least two arms that extend around opposing sides of a displayed product. The product-display system may also include a retainer body that has an edge and has a continuous, smooth outer surface extending from the edge. The retainer body may be coupled to the retainer bracket at a portion of the retainer body on an opposite side of the edge from the smooth outer surface. The product-display system may also include a retaining cable that may be coupled to the retainer body at an opening of the retainer body through the outer surface of the retainer body. The smooth outer surface of the retainer body may extend continuously from the opening to the edge. 
     Embodiments also include a product-display system having a retainer for retaining a displayed product. The retainer may include a retainer body, and the retainer body may include a magnet array. The magnet array may include a first plurality of magnets that are disposed radially around a central axis. The first plurality of magnets may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations, and the magnetic axis of each of the magnets in the first plurality of magnets may be disposed in a radial direction relative to the central axis. The magnet array may also include a second plurality of magnets that are disposed radially around the central axis. The second plurality of magnets may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations, and the magnetic axis of each of the magnets in the second plurality of magnets may be disposed in a tangential direction relative to the central axis. Further, the first plurality of magnets may be disposed adjacent to magnets of the second plurality of magnets, where at least one second magnet may be disposed between two first magnets, and where at least one first magnet may be disposed between two second magnets. The product-display system may also include a display stem having a recess configured to receive the retainer, and the display stem may also include a magnet array. Magnetic interaction between the magnet array of the retainer body and the magnet array of the display stem may cause rotation of the retainer to at least one predefined orientation when at least a portion of the retainer is disposed within the recess of the display stem, if the retainer is not in the predefined orientation. 
     Embodiments also include a product-display system having a retainer for retaining a displayed product. The product-display system may also include a cable-retraction unit that having a cable spool and a cable-biasing mechanism. The product-display system may also include a retaining cable having a first end coupled to the retainer and a second end coupled to the cable-retraction unit. The retaining cable may be spirally wound onto the cable spool in a single layer and the cable-biasing mechanism may provide a constant tension to the cable as it is wound and unwound from the cable spool. 
     Embodiments also include a product-display system having a retainer, where the retainer includes a retainer bracket and a retainer body coupled to the retainer bracket. The retainer bracket may be configured to secure a displayed product. The retainer body may include an edge, an opening, and a smooth outer surface extending continuously from the edge to the opening. The product-display system may also include a display stem having a recess that is configured to receive the retainer body. Magnetic interaction between a magnet array of the retainer body and a magnet array of the display stem may cause rotation of the retainer to at least one predefined orientation when at least a portion of the retainer body is disposed within the recess of the display stem, if the retainer body is not in the predefined orientation. The product-display system may also include a retaining cable extending through the display stem and having a first end coupled to the retainer body at the opening of the retainer body. The product-display system may also include a cable-retraction unit, where the cable-retraction unit includes a cable spool and a cable-biasing mechanism. A second end of the retaining cable may be coupled to the cable-retraction unit, and the retaining cable may be spirally wound onto the cable spool in a single plane. Further, the cable-biasing mechanism may provide a biasing force to the cable. 
     Embodiments also include a product-display system having a retainer for retaining a displayed product. The product-display system may also include a cable-retraction unit having a control unit. The product-display system may also include a retaining cable having a first end coupled to the retainer and a second end coupled to the cable-retraction unit. The retaining cable may be configured to transmit electronic data and power simultaneously, and electronic data and power transmitted by the retaining cable may be sent from the control unit to a displayed product. Further, when the control unit determines that at least one of the electronic data connection and the power connection between the control unit and a displayed product is lost, an alarm may be triggered by the control unit. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a product-display system. 
         FIG. 2  shows an exploded perspective view of portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3A  shows an exploded perspective view of the retainer bracket of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 3B  shows a perspective view of the bracket connector of the retainer bracket of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 3C  shows a cross-sectional view taken along line  3 C- 3 C of  FIG. 3B . 
         FIG. 4  shows an assembled perspective view of the retainer of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5A  shows an exploded view of the retainer body of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5B  shows a cross-sectional view of portions of the retainer body of  FIG. 2 , assembled with the retaining cable of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  shows an exploded perspective view of the display stem of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7A  shows a top view of magnet arrays of the product-display system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7B  shows a cross-sectional view taken along line  7 - 7 ′ of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 7C  shows a schematic view of the magnet arrays of  FIG. 7A  in a first state. 
         FIG. 7D  shows a schematic view of the magnet arrays of  FIG. 7A  in a second state. 
         FIG. 7E  shows a schematic view of the magnet arrays of  FIG. 7A  in a third state. 
         FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of the cable-retraction unit of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 9  shows an exploded view of the cable-retraction unit of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  shows a schematic view of the product-display system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of a product-display system. 
         FIG. 12  shows an exploded perspective view of portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  shows a side view of the product-display system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  shows an exploded perspective view of the retainer bracket of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 15  shows a partially-transparent front view of portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 16A  shows a partially-transparent side view of portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 11  in a first state. 
         FIG. 16B  shows a partially-transparent side view of the portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 16A  in a second state. 
         FIG. 17  shows a perspective view of a product-display system. 
         FIG. 18  shows an exploded perspective view of portions of the product-display system of  FIG. 17 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     Some retailers may wish to display products to potential customers in order to entice customers to purchase products, or to allow customers to interact with and experience the displayed products before making a purchase. For example, some retailers may have a display model product that is representative of products that are available for purchase by a customer, and may make the displayed product accessible to a user, for example, by displaying the product on a retail fixture in a display area. However, some retailers may wish to limit the ability of the customer to remove the display product from the display area (e.g., to prevent theft or other unauthorized use). 
     The present disclosure relates to product-display systems which may be used, for example, to display products to customers while limiting the customer&#39;s ability to remove the displayed product from a display area. The product-display systems may present the displayed products in a consistent, visually-appealing manner. Embodiments described herein may also allow customers to use and manipulate the displayed products without being encumbered by the security features of the product-display system. For example, the product-display system may allow a customer to easily lift, rotate, and manipulate a displayed product in a smooth, fluid, and user-friendly manner, such that the security features do not detract from a customer&#39;s experience when viewing, handling, and testing the displayed product. 
     Embodiments include a product retainer and a display stem that, together, may present a displayed product to a customer. The retainer may, for example, include a bracket that wraps around opposing sides of a displayed product in order to secure the bracket to the displayed product. The retainer may further include a retainer body that may be coupled to the bracket. The retainer may have a smooth, clean appearance without any fasteners of the retainer being visibly or physically obtrusive to the customer. The retainer may also include integrated electronics for connecting to a displayed product without such connections being visibly or physically obtrusive to the customer. The retainer may further have a low, sleek profile such that the retainer itself is not physically observable or obtrusive to the customer. The display stem may include a recess for receiving the retainer body, such that the retainer with product may be placed on and supported by the display stem. 
     In some embodiments, the retainer may be disassembled by an authorized user such that a retained product may be, for example, easily repaired or replaced. However, the retainer may include a locking mechanism that prevents disengagement by an unauthorized user, for example, while it is being displayed to customers during retail use. 
     In some embodiments, the product retainer may be removable from the display stem. For example, the product retainer may have a default position where the retainer body is supported within the recess of the display stem and an extended position where the product retainer is moved away from the display stem. In some embodiments, the product retainer may be attached to a retaining cable that may be drawn out of the display stem, thus permitting a customer to remove the product retainer, with a product secured thereon, from the display stem. 
     In some embodiments, the retaining cable may be configured to simultaneously transmit power and data to a displayed product while also providing a physical connection to the display area (e.g., a retail fixture) that limits a customer&#39;s ability to remove the product from the display area. In some embodiments, the retaining cable may be removable from the retainer, and the retainer may include contacts, cables, connectors, or the like for transmitting power/and or data between the retaining cable and the displayed product. In some embodiments, the contacts, cables, connectors, or the like of the retainer are not visible to a customer when a product is retained by the retainer. 
     The retaining cable may also be attached to a cable-retraction unit that may provide a tension to the retaining cable such that it is retracted through the display stem when a customer releases the product retainer from its extended position (e.g., when a customer moves the product retainer closer to the display stem, for example, when putting it back after examining the product). In some embodiments, after a customer has finished handling the displayed product, tension of the retaining cable causes the product retainer to be returned to its default position on the display stem, which may facilitate an ordered, visually-appealing display area. In some embodiments, the retainer body and display stem recess may have corresponding shapes (e.g., hemispherical) such that the retainer body automatically seats into the recess of the display stem under the tension of the retaining cable. In some embodiments, the retaining cable may be spirally wound in a single layer onto a cable spool of the cable-retraction unit, which may allow the cable to wind and unwind from the cable spool in smooth manner. 
     Further, in some embodiments, the retainer body and/or the display stem may include magnets that may be used to automatically return the product retainer to its default position and into one or more predefined orientations relative to the display stem. For example, magnetic interaction between magnets of the retainer body and magnets of the display stem may cause the product retainer to rotate within the recess of the display stem, thereby automatically rotating the displayed product into one of the one or more predefined orientations. The predefined orientations may, for example, correspond to portrait and landscape orientations for a display screen of the displayed product. Magnetic interaction between magnets of the retainer body and magnets of the display stem may also help retain the retainer body within the recess of the display stem. 
     In some embodiments, when the retainer body is disposed within the recess of the display stem, the retainer body may be rotated within the recess of the display stem such that a customer may use the product in multiple orientations while the retainer remains disposed on the display stem. The retainer body may be easily rotated within the recess of the display stem to change the product from one to another of the predefined orientations and to retain the product in the new orientation (e.g., through holding power due to magnetic attraction). 
     In some embodiments, the product-display system includes a security system that is configured to prevent unauthorized removal of products from the display area. The security system may include an alarm module that may monitor the presence of a product (e.g., via a data and/or power connection), and an alarm may be triggered (e.g., an audible alarm on the alarm module) if the security system detects that a product has been disconnected from the display area. Further, in some embodiments, the products themselves may also monitor the presence of the alarm module (e.g., via a data and/or power connection), and an alarm may be triggered (e.g., an audible alarm on the product) if it is detected that a product has been disconnected from the display area. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-19 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , a product-display system  100  may be used to display and secure a product  10 . Product  10  may be a retail product such as, for example, a consumer electronic device. Product  10  may be, for example, a cell phone, smartphone, media player, tablet computer, laptop computer, watch, smartwatch, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, product-display system  100  is integrated into a retail fixture  20 . Retail fixture  20  may be, for example, a table, counter, desk, bar, cabinet, display unit, or the like. Retail fixture  20  may be, for example, any of the retail fixtures described in U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 16/446,223, filed Jun. 19, 2019, titled “Modular Retail Display System,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. Retail fixture  20  may further include a modular display mat  22 , which may be, for example, any of the modular display mats described in U.S. application Ser. No. 16/446,223. In some embodiments, multiple product-display systems  100  may be integrated into a retail fixture  20 . For example, the multiple product-display systems  100  may all display the same type of product  10  (e.g., all smartphones, all tablet computers, all watches), or may display different types of products  10  (e.g., a smartphone and at least one of a tablet computer or a watch, a tablet computer and at least one of a smartphone and a watch, or a watch and at least one of a smartphone and a tablet computer). In the case of different types of products  10 , each product-display system  100  may have different characteristics, such as described in various embodiments herein. 
     As shown in the example of  FIG. 1 , product display systems  100  are shown displaying, from left to right, a smartphone (which in some embodiments may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem  600 , shown currently in a portrait orientation), a second smartphone (which in some embodiments also may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem  600 , currently shown in a portrait orientation and removed from its display stem  600 ), a third smartphone (which in some embodiments also may be rotatable and removable relative to its display stem  600 , shown currently in a landscape orientation), a tablet computer (which in some embodiments may not be rotatable or removable from its display stem  600 ), and a smartwatch (which in some embodiments may or may not be rotatable or removable from its display stem). 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , product-display system  100  may include a retainer  200 , a retaining cable  500 , and a display stem  600 . Retainer  200  may include a retainer bracket  300  and a retainer body  400 . Retainer bracket  300  may extend around and hold product  10 , retainer body  400  may be coupled to retainer bracket  300 , and retaining cable  500  may movably couple retainer body to retail fixture  20 , thereby securing product  10  to retail fixture  20 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , display stem  600  may be coupled to and extend from a top surface  21  of retail fixture  20  (e.g., a top surface  21  defined by display mat  22 ). Retaining cable  500  may extend through display stem  600 , through a hole  24  in the top surface  21  of retail fixture  20 , and into an interior space  26  of retail fixture  20 . A cable-retraction unit  700  may be disposed in interior space  26 , hidden from view, and may provide a tension to retaining cable  500 , as described in further detail below. In some embodiments, cable-retraction unit  700  is optional, and the choice whether or not to use cable-retraction unit  700  may be influenced by the type of product  10  displayed and its connection to display stem  600  (e.g., whether it is intended to be lifted away from display stem). 
     As shown, for example, in  FIGS. 2-4 , retainer bracket  300  may include a first arm  310  and a second arm  340  that extend in opposing directions (to extend around opposing sides of product  10 , thereby securing product  10  to retainer bracket  300 ). For example, first arm  310  may include a first end  312  and a second end  314  (see  FIG. 3A ). Second arm  340  may also include a first end  342  and a second end  344 , and second end  344  of second arm  340  may engage with and be coupled to second end  314  of first arm  310 . First end  312  of first arm  310  may include a hook  330  that is configured to extend around a side  11  of a product  10 . Further, first end  342  of second arm  340  may include a hook  360  that is configured to extend around a side  11  of a product  10  that is disposed opposite the side  11  that is secured by hook  330 . In this manner, product  10  may be disposed between and secured by opposing hooks  330 ,  360  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 1 ). 
     Retainer bracket  300  is shown in the figures to include only two arms, which can be beneficial for securing products in a minimally obtrusive manner. However, in some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes more than two arms for securing product  10 . For example, retainer bracket  300  may include three, four, five, six, or more arms. In some embodiments, each of the arms includes a hook and each hook may be used to secure a different side  11  of a product  10 . For example, in some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes four arms, and product  10  has a generally rectangular prismatic shape having at least four sides  11  (see, e.g., product  10  in  FIG. 2 ). The hook of one of each of the four arms may be configured to extend around a different side  11  of product  10 , thereby securing product  10  between the hooks. In some embodiments, each of the arms includes a hook and several hooks may be used to secure the same side  11  of a product  10 . For example, in some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes four arms and product  10  has a generally rectangular prismatic shape having at least four sides  11 . The hooks of a first pair of arms may be configured to both extend around the same side  11  of product  10 , and the hooks of a second pair of arms may be configured to extend around another side  11  of product  10  that is disposed opposite the side  11  secured by the hooks of the first pair of arms, thereby securing product  10  between the hooks. 
     In some embodiments, second ends  314 ,  344  of first and second arms  310 ,  340  may interlock with one another, which is to say that second ends  314 ,  344  may overlap, interleave, mesh, interlink, or otherwise fit together and/or engage with one another. By interlocking second ends  314 ,  344 , a direct mechanical connection may be formed between first and second arms  310 ,  340 . Such a mechanical connection may help constrain translational and/or rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340 , which may simplify the means by which first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together. For example—and as described in more detail below—a rigid connection between first and second arms  310 ,  340  may be created using a single bracket arm fastener  306  that is configured to couple first arm  310  to second arm  340 . 
     Accordingly, second end  314  of first arm  310  may include an interlocking portion  320 , and second end  344  of second arm  340  may include an interlocking portion  350  that is configured to interlock with interlocking portion  320 . Interlocking portion  320  of first arm  310  may include, for example, a bracket fastener hole  322 , an overlapping portion  324 , and an interfacing portion  326 . Further, interlocking portion  350  of second arm  340  may include, for example, a bracket fastener hole  352 , an overlapping portion  354 , and an interfacing portion  356 . Together, overlapping portions  324 ,  354 , interfacing portions  326 ,  356 , and bracket arm fastener  306  may constrain all translational and rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340 , thereby rigidly coupling first and second arms  310 ,  340  together. When first bracket arm  310  is coupled together with second bracket arm  340 , overlapping portion  324  may overlap with overlapping portion  354 , and interfacing portion  326  may interface with interfacing portion  356  (e.g., by an end surface of interfacing portion  326  mating or otherwise coming into contact with an end surface of interfacing portion  356 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 3A , a first bracket axis  30  may extend in the direction of extension of first and second arms  310 ,  340 , a fastener axis  34  may extend in the direction of extension of bracket arm fastener  306  (e.g., perpendicular to first bracket axis  30 ), and a second bracket axis  32  may intersect with both first bracket axis  30  and fastener axis  34  and may extend in a direction that is perpendicular to both first bracket axis  30  and fastener axis  34 . 
     Overlapping portion  324  and overlapping portion  354  may extend in opposing directions along first bracket axis  30 . When first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ), overlapping portion  324  may overlap with overlapping portion  354 . In some embodiments, overlapping portion  324  includes an overlapping surface  325  and overlapping portion  354  includes an overlapping surface  355 . When first arm  310  and second arm  340  are coupled together, overlapping surface  325  and overlapping surface  355  may be disposed adjacent to and in contact with one another. 
     In some embodiments, bracket fastener hole  322  extends through overlapping portion  324  and bracket fastener hole  352  extends through overlapping portion  354 . Bracket arm fastener  306  may extend through bracket fastener hole  352  and into and/or through bracket fastener hole  322  and may be configured to couple first arm  310  to second arm  340  (e.g., to lock them together in position relative to each other while bracket arm fastener  306  is disposed within bracket fastener hole  352  and bracket fastener hole  322 ). Bracket arm fastener  306  may be or may include, for example, a screw, bolt, nut, pin, clamp, and/or other components configured to couple first arm  310  to second arm  340 . In some embodiments, one or both of bracket fastener holes  322 ,  352  include threads that mesh with corresponding threads on bracket arm fastener  306 . In some embodiments, bracket arm fastener  306  is a screw that causes overlapping surface  325  to press against overlapping surface  355  when bracket arm fastener  306  is tightened, thereby strengthening a mechanical connection between first arm  310  and second arm  340 . First and second arms  310 ,  340  are shown in the figures to each include only one bracket fastener hole  322 ,  352 , which can simplify construction and assembly or disassembly of retainer bracket  300 . The cooperating engagement of interlocking portions  320 ,  350  can help permit a strong connection by only a single bracket arm fastener  306  (and corresponding bracket arm fastener holes) by inhibiting rotational and translational movement as described elsewhere herein. However, in some embodiments, first and second arms  310 ,  340  may each include two, three, four, or more bracket fastener holes  322 ,  352 . Further, retainer bracket  300  may include two, three, four, or more bracket arm fasteners  306  that are configured to couple first arm  310  to second arm  340 . 
     Together, bracket arm fastener  306  and overlapping portions  324 ,  354  may constrain certain translational and rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340 . For example, translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in the direction of fastener axis  34  may be constrained by bracket arm fastener  306  and/or mechanical interference between overlapping surfaces  325 ,  355 . Further, rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  about second bracket axis  32  may be constrained by bracket arm fastener  306  and/or mechanical interference between overlapping surfaces  325 ,  355 . Further, rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  about first bracket axis  30  may be constrained by bracket arm fastener  306  and/or mechanical interference between overlapping surfaces  325 ,  355 . As described in further detail below, bracket arm fastener  306  and interfacing portions  326 ,  356  may constrain translational and rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in additional directions. 
     When first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ), an arm interface  307  may be formed where interfacing portion  326  and interfacing portion  356  meet. As shown in  FIG. 2 , for example, first and second arm  310 ,  340  meet at a generally sinusoidal arm interface  307 . In some embodiments, for example, as shown, arm interface  307  crosses (e.g., traverses back and forth across) a line perpendicular to the direction of extension of bracket arms  310 ,  340  (e.g., arm interface crosses or traverses back and forth across second bracket axis  32 ). Arm interface  307  is not limited to the shape shown in the figures, but may take on a variety of shapes. Arm interface  307  may be straight, curved, or may include both straight and curved portions. For example, arm interface  307  may be S-shaped, wave-shaped, C-shaped, U-shaped, zig-zag-shaped or the like, or may include, for example, S-shaped portions, wave-shaped portions, C-shaped portions, U-shaped portions, zig-zag-shaped portions or other shaped portions. 
     As mentioned above, in some embodiments, a single bracket arm fastener  306  may be configured to couple first arm  310  to second arm  340 . As such, the single bracket arm fastener  306  (which may be, for example, cylindrical) may not inherently constrain rotation of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  about fastener axis  34 . Accordingly, arm interface  307  may create mechanical interference between first and second arms  310 ,  340  that prevents rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  about fastener axis  34 . For example, interfacing portion  326  may include an interfacing surface  327  and interfacing portion  356  may include an interfacing surface  357 . Interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  may, for example, extend in a direction that is parallel to fastener axis  34  and may include portions disposed on opposing sides of fastener axis  34 . Further, when first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together, interfacing surface  327  and interfacing surface  357  may be disposed adjacent to and in communication with one another. Thus, if first arm  310  is rotated about fastener axis  34  in either direction, interfacing surface  357  may mechanically interfere with interfacing surface  327 , thereby causing corresponding rotational movement of second arm  340  about fastener axis  34 . 
     Interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  may also help to constrain translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340 . For example, in some embodiments, interfacing surface  327  includes two parallel surface portions disposed on opposing sides of fastener axis  34 . Further, in some embodiments, interfacing surface  357  includes two parallel surface portions disposed on opposing sides of fastener axis  34 . In this manner, when first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together and interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  are mated together (e.g., in communication with one another), translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in the direction of second bracket axis  32  may cause mechanical interference between interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357 . Thus, translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in the direction of second bracket axis  32  may be constrained by bracket arm fastener  306  and/or mechanical interference between interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357 . 
     Interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  may also help to constrain translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in the direction of first bracket axis  30 . For example, in some embodiments, portions of interfacing surface  327  are displaced from portions of interfacing surface  357  in the direction of first bracket axis  30 . When first and second arms  310 ,  340  are coupled together, these portions of interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  may be mated together (e.g., in communication with one another). In this manner, if first arm  310  is attempted to be translated toward second arm  340  in the direction of first bracket axis  30 , these portions of interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  may mechanically interfere with one another. Thus, translational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  in the direction of first bracket axis  30  may be constrained by bracket arm fastener  306  (e.g., if the arms are pulled apart) and/or mechanical interference between interfacing surfaces  327 ,  357  (e.g., if the arms are pressed together). 
     Thus, as described above, translational and rotational movement of first arm  310  relative to second arm  340  may be constrained in all directions using only a single fastener. As described in further detail below, using only a single fastener to couple together first and second arms  310 ,  340  may help allow bracket arm fastener  306  to be hidden from view, which may facilitate a clean, smooth visual appearance of retainer. 
     In some embodiments first arm  310  and second arm  340  are formed integrally with each other (e.g., without the interfacing and overlapping surfaces, and related structure, described above). 
     With reference to  FIGS. 2-4 , in some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  may include an inner surface  302  and an outer surface  304 . In some embodiments, when product  10  is secured by retainer  200 , an outer surface  13  of product  10  is disposed against (e.g., flush with) inner surface  302  of retainer bracket  300  (allowing for intervening adhesive or cushioning elements, such as, for example, adhesive strips  308  discussed below). 
     In some embodiments, adhesive may be used to adhere product  10  to retainer bracket  300 . For example, adhesive  308  may be applied as one or more adhesive strips  308  disposed on inner surface  302  of retainer bracket  300  and may be configured to adhere outer surface  13  of product  10  to inner surface  302  of retainer bracket  300 . 
     In some embodiments, adhesive  308  is used in conjunction with other elements of retainer bracket  300  (e.g., hooks  330 ,  360 ) to secure product  10  to retainer bracket  300 . For example, adhesive  308  may be configured to supplement the retaining force provided by hooks  330 ,  360 . In some embodiments, adhesive  308  is the primary means for securing product  10  to retainer  200 , which is to say that adhesive  308  alone has sufficient adhesive strength to retain product  10  to retainer  200  during display and/or use in a retail environment. In some embodiments, product  10  may be un-adhered from retainer  200  using a special tool and/or an adhesive remover. In some embodiments, if an unauthorized individual un-adheres product  10  from retainer  200 , an alarm is triggered (as discussed in more detail below). 
     Adhesive  308  (which may be applied as adhesive strips, as shown) may include an adhesive such as, for example, glue, cement, paste, or other substance capable of adhering product  10  to retainer bracket  300 . In some embodiments, adhesive  308  may be adhesive strips having adhesive on both sides of the strip (e.g., double-sided tape or the like). 
     In some embodiments, adhesive  308  may be configured to reduce the amount of movement of product  10  relative to retainer bracket  300  and/or to reduce vibrations between product  10  and retainer bracket  300 . In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  is made of a hard material (e.g., metal) and adhesive  308  is configured to prevent retainer bracket  300  from scratching, scraping, or otherwise damaging product  10  by providing a buffer between retainer bracket  300  and product  10 . In some embodiments, adhesive  308  may be strips having adhesive only on one side of the strip (e.g., the side facing inner surface  302  of retainer bracket  300 ). In some embodiments, adhesive strips  308  include soft material, padding or the like on one side of the strip (e.g., the side facing the product) to provide a buffer between retainer bracket  300  and product  10 . 
     In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes an integrated cable and connector for transmitting power and/or data to product  10 . In some embodiments, the integrated cable and connector are not visible when product  10  is disposed in retainer bracket  300 , which may facilitate a clean, visual appearance of retainer  200 . 
     In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes one or more bracket contacts  378 , a bracket cable  370 , and a bracket connector  380  for transmitting power and/or data to product  10 . In some embodiments, second arm  340  includes bracket contact holes  379  that extend through second arm  340  from inner surface  302  to outer surface  304 . Bracket contacts  378  may be disposed in bracket contact holes  379  and may be used to transmit power and/or data between, for example, retainer body contacts  438  (described in more detail below) and bracket cable  370 . Bracket contacts  378  and/or bracket contact holes  379  may include an electrically insulating material to prevent electrical communication between bracket contacts  378  and second arm  340 . 
     In some embodiments, bracket connector  380  is disposed on hook  360  of second arm  340  and is coupled to inner surface  302  of second arm  340 . In some embodiments, bracket connector  380  is removably coupled to second arm  340  such that it may be, for example, removed and replaced. In some embodiments, bracket connector  380  is integrally formed with second arm  340 . Bracket connector  380  may be configured to be received by a corresponding connector port  12  disposed on a side  11  of product  10  when product  10  is disposed in retainer bracket  300 . Bracket connector  380  may be used to transmit power and/or data between, for example, between bracket cable  370  and product  10 . 
     In some embodiments, bracket connector  380  may be a USB—C-type connector, as shown in  FIGS. 3B and 3C . Bracket connector  380  may have an internal latch mechanism  381  integrated with a shell  383  (e.g., via press fit) and frame  385  (e.g., via welding) of bracket connector  380 . Such a configuration can provide improved strength and a ground path for shielding. During installation of a product  10  to be displayed, product  10  may be plugged into bracket connector  380  of second arm  340 , and internal latch mechanism  381  may help to hold product  10  in position until first arm  310  is installed and secured. Shell  383  and frame  385  of bracket connector  380  may be welded together (e.g., laser welded about the perimeter of their connection). Frame  385  of bracket connector  380  may be wider than shell  383  so as to provide stability and increased bonding surface area, for example for bonding bracket connector  380  to retainer bracket  300  (e.g., at bracket connector recess  382  of second arm  340 ). Also for added stability, frame  385  may be wider than it is tall (width taken horizontally in  FIG. 3C  and height taken vertically). 
     Bracket cable  370  may be coupled to second arm  340 , may extend between at least a portion of first end  342  and second end  344 , and may be disposed adjacent to inner surface  302  of second arm  340 . In some embodiments, bracket cable  370  is removably coupled to second arm  340  using bracket cable fasteners  376  such that it may be, for example, removed and replaced. In some embodiments, bracket cable  370  is integrally formed with second arm  340 . In some embodiments, bracket cable  370  is electrically coupled to bracket contacts  378  and bracket connector  380  and may be used to transmit power and/or data between bracket contacts  378  and bracket connector  380 . In some embodiments, bracket cable  370  is a substantially flat cable such as, for example, a flexible flat cable (“FFC”), a ribbon cable, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes a processing device  384 . As described in further detail below, processing device  384  may be configured to, for example, receive and translate electronic data from one communication protocol to another and/or to monitor the voltage (or other power characteristics) of power provided to product  10 . In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes processing device  384 , which may be coupled to one of first and second arms  310 ,  340  (e.g., coupled to bracket cable  370  of second arm  340 ). In some embodiments, processing device  384  is integrally formed with bracket cable  370 . Processing device  384  may be, for example, a computer, microcontroller, or the like. Processing device  384  may include, for example, a processor, memory, and communication infrastructure for sending and receiving electronic data. 
     In some embodiments, second arm  340  includes a bracket cable recess  372  disposed on inner surface  302 . Bracket cable recess  372  may be, for example, a groove, channel, depression, cavity, or the like that extends between at least a portion of first end  342  and second end  344  of second arm  340 . In some embodiments, bracket cable recess  372  extends between first end  342  and second end  344  at least to the position of bracket contact holes  379  and bracket connector recess  382 . Bracket cable  370  may be disposed within bracket cable recess  372 . In some embodiments, retainer bracket  300  includes a bracket cable cover  374  that covers bracket cable  370  when it is disposed in bracket cable recess  372 . In some embodiments, an outer surface  375  of bracket cable cover  374  is flush with inner surface  302  when bracket cable  370  is disposed in bracket cable recess  372  and bracket cable cover  374  is disposed to cover bracket cable recess  372 . Bracket cable recess  372  may be configured, for example, to allow bracket cable  370  to be disposed between second arm  340  and product  10  while the outer surface  13  of product  10  is flush with inner surface  302  of retainer bracket  300 . In this manner, when product  10  is secured in retainer bracket  300 , bracket cable  370  may be completely concealed and not accessible and to a user. 
     In some embodiments, second arm  340  includes a bracket connector recess  382  disposed on inner surface  302 . Bracket connector recess  382  may be, for example, a groove, channel, depression, cavity, or the like. In some embodiments, bracket connector recess  382  is disposed on inner surface  302  of hook  360 . Bracket connector recess  382  may be configured, for example, to allow bracket connector  380  to be received by connector port  12  of product  10  while product  10  is retained at least in part by second arm  340  (e.g., when the side  11  of product  10  is flush with inner surface  302  of hook  360 ). In this manner, when product  10  is secured in retainer bracket  300 , bracket connector  380  may be completely concealed and not accessible to a user. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4-5B , for example, retainer  200  may include a retainer body  400  that may be coupled to retainer bracket  300 . In some embodiments, retainer body  400  includes a shell  410  and a shell cover  430  that together define the general shape of retainer body  400 . 
     Shell  410  may include an outer surface  412  that is defined by an edge  414 . Shell  410  may include a first opening  416  that is defined by a first perimeter  418  and that extends from outer surface  412  to an inner surface  424  of shell  410 . Inner surface  424  may define an interior space  426 . Shell  410  may include a second opening  420  defined by a second perimeter  422 , and interior space  426  may be accessible through first opening  416  and/or second opening  420 . 
     In some embodiments, edge  414  defines a continuous shape, which is to say that edge  414  defines a shape that follows a continuous path without any discontinuities. In some embodiments, edge  414  defines a continuous, smooth shape. In some embodiments, edge  414  defines a continuous shape that exists in a two-dimensional plane. In some embodiments, edge  414  defines a circular shape (e.g., as shown). In some embodiments, when retainer body  400  is coupled to retainer bracket  300 , edge  414  is in continuous contact, or apparent contact, with outer surface  304  of retainer bracket  300 , which is to say that there are no visible gaps between edge  414  and outer surface  304  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 4 ). 
     In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is a smooth surface that extends continuously from edge  414  to first perimeter  418 . In other words, the outer surface of retainer body  400  (e.g., outer surface  412 ) between its upper edge (e.g., edge  414 ) and its lower extent (e.g., perimeter  418 ) forms an unbroken surface, a continuous surface, that is, a surface uninterrupted by discontinuities or surface elements (e.g., openings, edges, corners, seams, windows, or electrical elements such as contacts or sensors). In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is a convex surface. In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is a concave surface. In some embodiments, outer surface  412  includes both convex and concave portions. In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is continuously curved from edge  414  to first perimeter  418 . In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is hemispherical in shape (e.g., as shown). In some embodiments, outer surface  412  is axisymmetric with respect to a retainer body axis  40 . In some embodiments, when retainer body  400  is coupled to retainer bracket  300 , retainer body axis  40  is collinear with fastener axis  34  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 4 ). 
     In some embodiments, edge  414  defines a circular shape and first perimeter  418  also defines a circular shape. In some embodiments, first perimeter  418  has a diameter that is less than the diameter of edge  414 . In some embodiments, edge  414  and first perimeter  418  are disposed in parallel planes that are spatially displaced along retainer body axis  40 . In some embodiments, the center points of edge  414  and first perimeter  418  are aligned with retainer body axis  40 , such center points being centers of area of the areas bounded by edge  414  and first perimeter  418 , respectively. 
     As mentioned above, in some embodiments, retainer body  400  includes a shell cover  430 . Shell cover  430  may be configured to cover second opening  420 . In some embodiments, shell cover  430  has a shape that generally corresponds to the shape defined by second perimeter  422 . Shell cover  430  may include a bracket arm fastener hole  436 . In some embodiments, bracket arm fastener hole  436  may have a circular shape and may be disposed such that its center point is aligned with fastener axis  34 . In some embodiments bracket arm fastener hole  436  is aligned with first opening  416  and retainer body  400  includes a void  402  that extends from bracket arm fastener hole  436  to first opening  416 . In this manner, bracket arm fastener may be accessed through first opening  416  when retainer body is coupled to retainer body  400 . For example, a user may insert a fastening tool (e.g., a screwdriver) into first opening  416 , through void  402 , and through bracket arm fastener hole  436  in order fasten or unfasten bracket arm fastener  306 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , for example, retainer body  400  may include a cable port  460  disposed in interior space  426  that may be configured to receive a cable plug  510  of retaining cable  500 . Cable port  460  may be disposed adjacent to first opening  416  and may be configured to receive cable plug  510  when it is inserted into first opening  416  in an axial direction relative to retainer body axis  40 . In some embodiments, cable port  460  includes a thru hole  462  that extends completely though cable port  460  in the direction of retainer body axis  40 , for example, such that when cable plug  510  is not disposed in cable port  460 , bracket arm fastener  306  may be accessible via first opening  416  and through cable port  460 . 
     Cable plug  510  may be, for example, disposed at a first end  502  of retaining cable  500  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ). In some embodiments, retaining cable  500  is configured to transmit power and electronic data simultaneously. Retaining cable  500  may include multiple conductors (e.g., wires) that are disposed within a single cable jacket  506 . In  FIG. 5B —which is a schematic, cross-sectional view—the internal conductors (e.g., internal wires) of retaining cable  500  are not shown. The multiple conductors may be electrically isolated from one another such that some of the conductors may transmit power while other conductors transmit electronic data, for example. Accordingly, cable plug  510  may include electrically isolated contacts corresponding to each of the conductors of retaining cable  500  and cable port  460  may include electrically isolated contacts corresponding to each of the contacts of cable plug  510 . 
     For example, cable plug  510  may include a tip contact  512  and one or more ring contacts  514 . Each of tip contact  512  and ring contacts  514  may be in electrical communication with one of the conductors of retaining cable  500 . Cable port  460  may include a port contact  464  corresponding to each of tip contact  512  and ring contacts  514 . As such, both power and data may be transmitted simultaneously through retaining cable  500 , though cable plug  510  and then to cable port  460 , via different contacts of tip contact  512  and ring contacts  514 . 
     A second end  504  of retaining cable  500  may be coupled to cable-retraction unit  700  (described in further detail below) and, thus, secured to a retail fixture  20 . Accordingly, retaining cable  500  may prevent retainer  200  from being moved away from retail fixture  20  any further than the extendable length of retaining cable  500 , for example. Thus, retaining cable may provide an electrical connection (e.g., power and/or data) to product  10  while simultaneously providing a physical connection to product  10  that secures product  10  to retail fixture  20 . In some embodiments, retaining cable  500  may include strengthening features, for example, to make it difficult to break or cut retaining cable  500 . For example, cable jacket  506  may include a flexible metal mesh, metal wrap, or the like to strengthen retaining cable  500 . 
     As mentioned above, in some embodiments, retaining cable  500  may be coupled to retainer body  400 . In some embodiments, retainer body  400  includes a cable release mechanism  450  that is configured to removably couple retaining cable  500  to retainer body  400 . Cable release mechanism  450  may include a cable release housing  451 , cable retainers  453 , biasing members  456 , and a collar  457 . 
     Cable release housing  451  may be disposed within interior space  426 , may be generally cylindrical in shape, and may include a thru hole  452  that extends completely though cable release housing  451  in the direction of retainer body axis  40 . In some embodiments, cable release housing  451  is coupled to body shell  410 . In some embodiments, cable release housing  451  is integrally-formed with body shell  410 . 
     Cable port  460  may be disposed in thru hole  452  and may be coupled to cable release housing  451 . Cable retainers  453  may also be disposed in thru hole  452  of cable release housing  451  and may be configured to retain cable plug  510 . As shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , for example, cable retainers  453  may be generally C-shaped and may include an angled surface  454  and a retaining surface  455 . One or more biasing members  456  may be disposed between cable retainers  453  and cable release housing  451  and may be configured to bias cable retainers  453  to move in a radially inward direction relative to retainer body axis  40 . Biasing members  456  may be, for example, springs, linear springs, or the like. 
     As cable plug  510  is inserted into first opening  416 , tip contact  512  and/or ring contacts  514  of cable plug  510 , for example, may come into contact with angled surfaces  454  of cable retainers  453 . Cable plug  510  may include a retaining portion  516  that may, for example, have a smaller diameter than tip contacts  512  and ring contacts  514  of cable plug  510  and may define a retaining surface  518 . As cable plug  510  is inserted further into first opening  416 , cable plug  510  causes cable retainers  453  to move in a radially outward direction relative to retainer body axis  40 . As cable plug  510  is inserted further into first opening  416 , tip contact  512  and/or ring contacts  514  move past cable retainers  453 , thereby permitting biasing members  456  to move cable retainers  453  back in an radially inward direction due to the reduced diameter of retaining portion  516 . Retaining surface  518  may be substantially parallel to retaining surface  455 . Thus, if cable plug  510  is moved in the opposite direction (i.e., toward removal from first opening  416 ), retaining surface  455  will mechanically interfere with retaining surface  518 , thus preventing retaining cable plug  510  from being removed from cable release mechanism  450 . 
     In some embodiments, collar  457  is annular in shape and is disposed in first opening  416 . Cable plug  510  may be inserted through collar  457  into cable port  460 . In some embodiments, collar  457  includes and outer surface  458  and outer surface  458  is flush with outer surface  412  when collar  457  is in an undepressed state. 
     When cable plug  510  is retained by cable release mechanism  450 , collar  457  may be depressed (e.g., moved into interior space  426  in an axial direction relative to retainer body axis  40 ) in order to release cable plug  510  from cable release mechanism  450 . For example, collar  457  may include angled surfaces  459  that correspond to angled surfaces  454  of cable retainers  453 . When collar  457  is depressed by applying an axial force (e.g., in the direction of retainer body axis  40 ) to outer surface  458  of collar  457 , for example, angle surfaces  459  may come into contact with angled surfaces  454 . As collar  457  is depressed further, angle surfaces  459  may press against angled surface  454 , thereby causing cable retainers  453  to move in a radially outward direction relative to retainer body axis  40 , thus allowing cable plug  510  to be removed from first opening  416  without mechanical interference between retaining surface  455  and retaining surface  518 . 
     In some embodiments, in order to release retaining cable  500  from retainer body  400 , collar  457  must be uniformly depressed, which is to say that an axial force must be applied uniformly across outer surface  459 . For example, if a force is applied to only a portion of outer surface  459  (e.g., on one side of collar  457 ), collar  457  may for example, twist within first opening  416  and may mechanically interfere with cable release housing  451  and/or retaining cable  500  rather than siding axially about retainer body axis  40 , which may prevent angle surfaces  454  from engaging angled surfaces  459 , thereby preventing cable retainers  453  from moving in an radially outward direction, and thereby preventing cable plug  510  from being released from cable release mechanism  450 . 
     Further, outer surface  458  may have a small surface area, which may make it difficult to apply a uniform force to outer surface  458  without using a purpose-built tool that is configured to apply a uniform force to the small surface area. In some embodiments, for example, outer surface  458  may have a surface area of less than approximate 150 square millimeters. In some embodiments, for example, outer surface  458  may have a surface area of less than approximately 100 square millimeters. In some embodiments, for example, outer surface  458  may have a surface area of less than approximately 60 square millimeters. 
     In some embodiments, cable plug  510  includes an outer retaining surface  511  that mechanically interferes with outer surface  458  when cable plug  510  is inserted into first opening  416 , thereby preventing cable plug  510  from being inserted further into first opening  416 . Thus, cable plug  510  may be held in place in first opening  416  by mechanical interference between outer retaining surface  511  and outer surface  458 , and retaining surface  455  and retaining surface  518 , respectively. 
     In some embodiments, cable plug  510  may rotate freely about retainer body axis  40 . Thus, if retainer  200  is rotated, for example, by a customer testing the product, cable plug  510  may rotate inside of cable port  460  thereby reducing or eliminating any twisting tension in retaining cable  500 . Reducing or eliminating twisting tension may, for example, prevent retaining cable  500  from coiling upon itself and may reduce wear on retaining cable  500  during use. In some embodiments, cable plug  510  and cable port  460  may together form an electrical rotary joint, slip ring joint, rotary electrical interface, or the like that may permit 360 degree rotation of cable plug  510  relative to cable port  460  while maintaining electrical communication between cable plug  510  and cable port  460 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 2-5A , retainer body  400  may be coupled to outer surface  304  of retainer bracket  300 . Shell  410  may include retainer body fastener holes  428  that are configured to receive retainer body fasteners  392 . In some embodiments, second arm  340  includes retainer body fastener holes  390 , and retainer body fasteners  392  may extend through retainer body fastener holes  390  and into retainer body fastener holes  428 , thereby coupling retainer body  400  to second arm  340  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 4 ). In some embodiments, shell cover  430  includes cutouts  434  such that retainer body fasteners  392  may extend into retainer body fastener holes  428  without interference from shell cover  430 . Similarly, in some embodiments, shell cover  430  includes holes such that retainer body fasteners  392  may extend through shell cover  430  and into retainer body fastener holes  428 . 
     In some embodiments, shell cover  430  includes body contact holes  440  that extend through shell cover  430 . Body contacts  438  may be disposed in body contact holes  440  and may be used to transmit power and/or data between, for example, retainer bracket contacts  378  (described above) and cable port  460 . Body contacts  438  may be electrically coupled, either directly or indirectly, to port contacts  464 . For example, in some embodiments, each of body contacts  438  corresponds to one port contact  464  and is electrically coupled, either directly or indirectly, to the corresponding port contact  464 . Body contacts  438  and/or body contact holes  440  may include an electrically insulating material to prevent electrical communication between body contacts  438  and shell cover  430 . When retainer body  400  is coupled to retainer bracket  300 , bracket contacts  378  may be aligned with and in electrical communication with body contacts  438 . 
     In some embodiments, in order to install a product  10  in retainer  200 , components of retainer  200  must be assembled in a particular order. For example, retainer body  400  may first be coupled to second arm  340  using retainer body fasteners  392 . Then, a side  11  of product  10  may be positioned in hook  360 , and bracket connector  380  may be inserted into connector port  12  of product  10 . Next, first arm  310  may be positioned such that interlocking portion  320  of first arm  310  interlocks with interlocking portion  350  of second arm  340 . When interlocking portions  320 ,  350  are interlocked, hook  330  may secure a side  11  of product  10  that is disposed opposite of the edge secured by hook  360 . Then, by extending a fastener tool through first opening  416 , for example, bracket arm fastener  306  may be used to fasten first and second arms  310 ,  340  together, thereby creating a rigid connection between first arm  310 , second arm  340 , and retainer body  400 . Accordingly, product  10  may be rigidly secured between hooks  330 ,  360  and first and second arms  310 ,  340 . Finally, cable plug  510  may be inserted into first opening  416  and cable release mechanism  450  may secure cable plug  510 . 
     After cable plug  510  is inserted into first opening  416  and secured by cable release mechanism  450 , bracket arm fastener  306  may be completely obscured by retainer  200  and/or product  10 . Thus, bracket arm fastener  306  may not be accessible without removing cable plug  510  from first opening  416 . Since removing bracket arm fastener  306  is necessary to remove product  10  from retainer  200 , making bracket arm fastener  306  inaccessible may improve the security-related effectiveness of product-display system  100 . As mentioned above, outer surface  412  may be continuous and smooth, and edge  414  may be continuous and in continuous communication with outer surface  304 . Accordingly, retainer  200  may have a smooth, continuous outer surface that includes no gaps, no visible fasteners, and therefore no obvious means of disassembly. Again, such a configuration may improve the security-related effectiveness of product-display system  100 . 
     In some embodiments, in order to remove product  10  from retainer  200 , components of retainer  200  must be disassembled in a particular order. For example, collar  457  may be uniformly depressed (e.g., using a purpose-built tool) in order to release cable plug  510  from cable release mechanism  450 . Then, cable plug  510  may be removed from first opening  416 . Then, by extending a fastener tool through first opening  416 , for example, bracket arm fastener  306  may be unfastened, thereby decoupling first arm  310  from second arm  340 . Then, first arm  310  may be moved away from product  10  and second arm  340 , thus releasing the side  11  of product  10  secured by hook  330 . Finally, product  10  may then be moved away from second arm  340 , thus releasing the side  11  of product  10  secured by hook  360  and removing bracket connector  380  from connector port  12 . 
     As described above, connector port  12  of product  10  and bracket connector  380  of retainer bracket  300  may be completely obscured and not accessible to a user when product  10  is secured in product retainer  200 . However, in order to service, run diagnostics, upload data to or download data from product  10 , for example, an employee may desire to utilize a connection to connector port  12 . To access connection port  12  directly, product  10  may be removed from product retainer  200  (e.g., using the steps described above). 
     In some embodiments, such removal of product  10  from product retainer  200  may be avoided. For example, product-display system  100  may permit product  10  to communicate with an external device (e.g., a service computer) via a service cable while retained in product retainer  200  by utilizing the electrical connections of product retainer  200  described above. For example, the service cable may include a first end having a cable plug that is similar to (or the same as) cable plug  510 . The cable plug of the service cable may be configured to be received by cable port  460  which, as described above, may be in electrical communication with bracket connector  380 . Thus, data and/or power transmitted via the cable plug of the service cable may be received by bracket connector  380  and product  10 . The service cable may also have a second end that may include a connector (e.g., a standard connector such as a Universal Serial Bus (“USB”) connector or the like) that may be connected to a computer, power supply or the like in order to communicate with a product  10  (e.g., transmit or receive data) or to transmit power to a product  10  via the cable plug of the service cable. Accordingly, if a product  10  is in need of servicing, for example, an employee may detach retaining cable  500  from cable port  460 , attach the service cable to cable port  460 , and use the service cable to service product  10  while product  10  remains secured in product retainer  200 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , for example, display stem  600  may include a stem body  610  having a first end  612  and a second end  614 . Second end  614  may be coupled to retail fixture  20  and first end  612  may extend at an angle  602  relative to retail fixture  20 . In some embodiments, angle  602  is an oblique angle. In some embodiments, angle  602  is a right angle. In some embodiments, angle  602  is between approximately 50 and 70 degrees. In some embodiments, angle  602  is approximately 60 degrees. In some embodiments, stem body  610  has a generally cylindrical shape. However, stem body  610  may have other shapes such as, for example, rectangular prismatic, triangular prismatic, frustoconical. In some embodiments, stem body defines a passageway that extends between first end  612  and second end  614  (e.g., thru hole  618 ). In some embodiments, display stem  600  includes no electrical components. For example, display stem  600  may include only physical components (e.g., stem body  610  and a stem insert  620 ) and a magnet array  670  (described in further detail below). 
     First end  612  may include an edge  613  and second end  614  may include an edge  615 . In some embodiments, edge  615  may exist in a two-dimensional plane and may be fixed to top surface  21  of retail fixture  20  (e.g., second end  614  may be in contact with top surface  21 , such that the two-dimensional plane of edge  615  is parallel with surface  21  at the area of contact). In some embodiments, edge  613  may exist in a two-dimensional plane and may be disposed at an angle  604  relative to edge  615  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 13 ). In some embodiments, when retainer  200  is disposed on display stem  600 , product  10  is disposed parallel to edge  613  (e.g., parallel to the two-dimensional plane of edge  613 , see, e.g.,  FIG. 13 ). Thus, in some embodiments, angle  604  defines a display angle of product  10 . In some embodiments, display angle  604  is less than approximately 90 degrees. In some embodiments, display angle  604  is between approximately 20 and 70 degrees. In some embodiments, display angle  604  is approximately 55 degrees. In some embodiments, display angle  604  is approximately 30 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, first end  612  includes an opening  616  that is configured to receive a stem insert  620 . In some embodiments, stem insert  620  includes a recess  622  that defines an outer surface  624  and that is configured to receive retainer body  400 . In some embodiments, outer surface  624  includes a first perimeter  626  defining a first opening  627 . (First perimeter  626  may also define an upper edge of display stem  600 .) In some embodiments, outer surface  624  includes a second perimeter  628  defining a second opening  629 . 
     In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  defines a continuous shape, which is to say that first perimeter  626  defines a shape that follows a continuous path without any discontinuities. In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  defines a continuous, smooth shape. In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  defines a continuous shape that exists in a two-dimensional plane. In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  defines a circular shape. In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  defines a circular shape and second perimeter  628  also defines a circular shape. In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of second perimeter  628 . In some embodiments, first perimeter  626  and second perimeter  628  are disposed in parallel planes that are spatially displaced along a display stem axis  60 . In some embodiments, the center points of first perimeter  626  and second perimeter  628  are aligned with display stem axis  60 . 
     In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is a smooth surface that extends continuously from first perimeter  626  to second perimeter  628 . In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is a concave surface. In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is a convex surface. In some embodiments, outer surface  624  includes both a concave and convex portions. In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is continuously curved from first perimeter  626  to second perimeter  628 . In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is generally hemispherical in shape. In some embodiments, outer surface  624  is axisymmetric with respect to a display stem axis  60 . In some embodiments, when retainer body  400  is disposed in recess  622 , retainer body axis  40  is collinear with display stem axis  60 . In some embodiments, outer surface  624  has the same shape as outer surface  412  of retainer body  400 . This can facilitate the shapes of outer surface  624  and outer surface  412  nesting together, such as when retainer body  400  is received within recess  622 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , for example, retaining cable  500  may extend through display stem  600 . For example, first end  502  of retaining cable  500  may be coupled to retainer  200 , and retaining cable  500  may extend through first opening  627 , through second opening  629 , through thru hole  618 , through hole  24  in top surface  21  of retail fixture  20  and into interior space  26  of retail fixture  20 , where second end  504  of retaining cable  500  is coupled to cable-retraction unit  700  (described in further detail below). 
     Smooth outer surface  412  and smooth outer surface  624  may, together, ensure that retainer body  400  automatically seats or retains itself in recess  622  under the tension applied by retaining cable  500 , thereby helping to maintain retainer  200  in a desired position (e.g., facing potential purchasers) such that it is not displayed in an off-kilter or dangling position. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5A-7E , for example, retainer body  400  and display stem  600  may include magnets for holding and/or aligning retainer  200  on display stem  600 .  FIGS. 7A and 7B  show the relative positions of magnets of both retainer  200  and display stem  600  when retainer body  400  of retainer  200  is received within recess  622  of display stem  600 .  FIGS. 7C-7E  show schematic views of magnets of both retainer  200  and display stem  600  when retainer body  400  of retainer  200  is received within recess  622  of display stem  600 .  FIGS. 7C-7E  includes arrowed lines indicating the magnetic axis of each of the magnets, and also include symbols indicating the positive pole (“+”) and negative pole (“−”) of each of the magnets. In some embodiments, such magnets, along with retaining cable  500 , are configured to hold and/or align retainer  200  on display stem  600 . 
     Retainer body  400  may include a magnet array  470 . In some embodiments, magnet array  470  is a Halbach array (i.e., an arrangement of magnets having a rotating pattern of magnetization that augments magnetic field on one side of the array (creating a strong magnetic side) and diminishes magnetic field on the other side of the array (creating a weak magnetic side). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5A and 7A , for example, magnet array  470  may include three first magnetic elements (e.g., first magnets  480 ), and two second magnetic elements (e.g., second magnets  490 ), where the first magnets  480  and second magnets  490  are disposed adjacent to one another in an alternating pattern. In some embodiments, magnet array  470  is disposed in an arc about retainer body axis  40 . In some embodiments, retainer body  400  includes two magnet arrays  470  that are each disposed in an arc about retainer body axis  40 , where the two magnet arrays  470  are spaced apart from one another, where the two magnet arrays  470  are disposed on opposing sides of retainer body axis  40  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5A ). In some embodiments, the strong magnetic side of magnet array  470  may be disposed radially outward of the weak magnetic side relative to retainer body axis  40 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7C , for example, first magnets  480  may each have a magnetic axis  482  that is disposed in a radial direction relative to retainer body axis  40 . Further, first magnets  480  may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations. For example, one first magnet  480  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its positive pole. Then, the next first magnet  480  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and the next first magnet  480  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its positive pole, and so on. Each magnet array  470  is shown in  FIGS. 5A, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include three first magnets  480 , however, magnet array  470  may include any number of first magnets  480 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7C , for example, second magnets  490  may each have a magnetic axis  492  that is disposed in a tangential direction (e.g., perpendicular to the radial and axial directions of retainer body axis  40 ) relative to retainer body axis  40 . Further, second magnets  490  may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations. For example, one second magnet  490  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where, relative to retainer body axis  40 , its negative pole is disposed facing a clockwise direction relative to its positive pole. Then, the next second magnet  490  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where, relative to retainer body axis  40 , its positive pole is disposed facing the clockwise direction relative to its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and the next second magnet  490  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where, relative to retainer body axis  40 , its negative pole is disposed facing the clockwise direction relative to its positive pole, and so on. Each magnet array  470  is shown in  FIGS. 5A, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include two second magnets  490 , however, magnet array  470  may include any number of second magnets  490 . 
     As mentioned above, first and second magnets  480 ,  490  may be disposed adjacent to one another in an alternating pattern. For example, one first magnet  480  in magnet array  470  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its positive pole. Then, a second magnet  490  may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet  480  (and displaced clockwise relative to retainer body axis  40 ) and may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed clockwise relative to its positive pole. Then, another first magnet  480  may be disposed adjacent to the second magnet  490  (and displaced clockwise relative to retainer body axis  40 ) and may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its negative pole. Then, another second magnet  490  may be disposed adjacent to the previous first magnet  480  (and displaced clockwise relative to retainer body axis  40 ) and may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed clockwise relative to its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and another first magnet  480  may be disposed adjacent to the previous second magnet  490  (and displaced clockwise relative to retainer body axis  40 ) and may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to retainer body axis  40  than its positive pole, and so on. Magnet array  470  is shown in  FIGS. 5A, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include three first magnets  480  and two second magnets  490 , however, magnet array  470  may include any number of alternative first and second magnets  480 ,  490 . 
     In some embodiments, display stem  600  may also include a magnet array  670 . In some embodiments, magnet array  670  is a Halbach array having a rotating pattern of magnetization and having a strong magnet side and a weak magnetic side. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7A , for example, magnet array  670  may include eight first magnetic elements (e.g., first magnets  680 ) and eight second magnetic elements (e.g., second magnets  690 ), where the first magnets  680  and second magnets  690  are disposed adjacent to one another in an alternating pattern. In some embodiments, magnet array  670  is disposed in a circular pattern about display stem axis  60 . In some embodiments, the strong magnetic side of magnet array  670  may be disposed radially inward of the weak magnetic side. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7C , for example, first magnets  680  may each have a magnetic axis  682  that is disposed in a radial direction relative to display stem axis  60 . Further, first magnets  680  may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations. For example, one first magnet  680  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its positive pole. Then, the next first magnet  680  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and the next first magnet  680  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its positive pole, and so on. Magnet array  670  is shown in  FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include eight first magnets  680 , however, magnet array  670  may include any number of first magnets  680 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7C , for example, second magnets  690  may each have a magnetic axis  692  that is disposed in a tangential direction (e.g., perpendicular to the radial and axial directions of display stem axis  60 ) relative to display stem axis  60 . Further, second magnets  690  may have alternating positive and negative polar orientations. For example, one second magnet  690  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where, relative to display stem axis  60 , its negative pole is disposed in a clockwise direction relative to its positive pole. Then, the next second magnet  690  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where, relative to display stem axis  60 , its positive pole is disposed in the clockwise direction relative to its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and the next second magnet  690  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where, relative to display stem axis  60 , its negative pole is disposed in the clockwise direction relative to its positive pole, and so on. Magnet array  670  is shown in  FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include eight second magnets  690 , however, magnet array  670  may include any number of second magnets  690 . 
     As mentioned above, first and second magnets  680 ,  690  may be disposed adjacent to one another in an alternating pattern. For example, one first magnet  680  in magnet array  670  may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its positive pole. Then, a second magnet  690  may be disposed adjacent to the first magnet  680  (and displaced clockwise display stem axis  60 ) and may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed clockwise relative to its positive pole. Then, another first magnet  680  may be disposed adjacent to the second magnet  690  (and displaced clockwise relative to display stem axis  60 ) and may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its negative pole. Then, another second magnet  690  may be disposed adjacent to the previous first magnet  680  (and displaced clockwise relative to display stem axis  60 ) and may have a polar orientation where its positive pole is disposed clockwise relative to its negative pole. Then, the pattern may repeat, and another first magnet  680  may be disposed adjacent to the previous second magnet  690  (and displaced clockwise relative to display stem axis  60 ) and may have a polar orientation where its negative pole is disposed closer to display stem axis  60  than its positive pole, and so on. Magnet array  670  is shown in  FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7C , for example, to include eight first magnets  680  and eight second magnets  690 , however, magnet array  670  may include any number of alternative first and second magnets  680 ,  690 . 
     Magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may automatically position and/or orient retainer  200  relative to display stem  600 . For example, when retainer body  400  is inserted into recess  622 , magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may serve to automatically orient retainer  200  into one of one or more predefined orientations. Depending on the number of magnets included in magnet arrays  470 ,  670 , any number of predefined orientations may be achieved. For example, in some embodiments where magnet array  470  includes three first magnets  480  and two second magnets  490  (and, optionally, a second magnet array  470  disposed across axis  40  from the first magnet array  470  including three first magnets  480  and two second magnets  490 ) and where magnet array  670  includes eight first magnets  680  and eight second magnets, magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may automatically position and/or orient retainer  200  relative to display stem  600  into one of four positions. The four positions may each be separated by approximately 90 degrees (e.g., promoting orientation at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees).  FIGS. 7C and 7E , for example, show two of the four predefined orientations, as described in further detail below. Such a configuration ensures that product  10  always returns to a vertical or horizontal orientation, which may be more visually-appealing to customers or may be desirable orientations for use of the product. 
     As mentioned above, in some embodiments, magnetic arrays  470 ,  670  are Halbach arrays. The rotating pattern of magnetization of magnetic arrays  470 ,  670  may create a more uniform magnetic attraction between magnetic array  470  and magnetic array  670  than if, for example, the polar orientations of magnets in the arrays were disposed only in radial directions relative to axes  40 ,  60 . A non-uniform magnetic field may, for example, cause retainer  200  to rotate relative to display stem  600  in a bumpy, jolty, or otherwise unsmooth manner, which may detract from a customer&#39;s experience when handling and testing the displayed product. By creating a more uniform magnetic attraction between magnetic array  470  and magnetic array  670 , retainer  200  may more smoothly rotate between predefined orientations relative to display stem  600 . 
     In some embodiments, each of first magnets  480  includes an outer surface  484  that may be, for example, disposed adjacent to shell  410 . In some embodiments, each of first magnets  480  includes a curved outer surface  484  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). In some embodiments, the curvature of outer surface  484  corresponds to at least a portion of outer surface  412  of shell  410  (e.g., the curvature may be convex in at least one direction, and in some embodiments in two directions, as shown). In some embodiments, each of first magnets  480  includes two opposing side surfaces  486 , where outer surface  484  is disposed between opposing side surfaces  486 . In some embodiments, side surfaces  486  are flat. In some embodiments, side surfaces  486  are disposed parallel to one another. 
     In some embodiments, each of second magnets  490  includes an outer surface  494  that may be, for example, disposed adjacent to shell  410 . In some embodiments, each of second magnets  490  includes a curved outer surface  494  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 5A and 7A ). In some embodiments, the curvature of outer surface  494  corresponds to at least a portion of outer surface  412  of shell  410  (e.g., the curvature may be convex in at least one direction, and in some embodiments in two directions, as shown). In some embodiments, each of second magnets  490  includes two opposing side surfaces  496 , where outer surface  494  is disposed between opposing side surfaces  496 . In some embodiments, side surfaces  496  are flat. In some embodiments, side surfaces  496  are disposed at an oblique angle  498  relative to one another. In some embodiments, oblique angle  498  is approximately 45 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, each of first magnets  680  includes an outer surface  684  that may be, for example, disposed adjacent to stem insert  620 . In some embodiments, each of first magnets  680  includes a curved outer surface  684  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). In some embodiments, the curvature of outer surface  684  corresponds to at least a portion of outer surface  624  of recess  622  (e.g., the curvature may be concave in at least one direction, and in some embodiments in two directions, as shown). In some embodiments, each of first magnets  680  include two opposing side surfaces  686 , where outer surface  684  is disposed between opposing side surfaces  686 . In some embodiments, side surfaces  686  are flat. In some embodiments, side surfaces  686  are disposed parallel to one another. 
     In some embodiments, each of second magnets  690  includes an outer surface  694  that may be, for example, disposed adjacent to stem insert  620 . In some embodiments, each of second magnets  690  includes a curved outer surface  694  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). In some embodiments, the curvature of outer surface  694  corresponds to at least a portion of outer surface  624  of recess  622  (e.g., the curvature may be concave in at least one direction, and in some embodiments in two directions, as shown). In some embodiments, each of second magnets  690  include two opposing side surfaces  696 , where outer surface  694  is disposed between opposing side surfaces  696 . In some embodiments, side surfaces  696  are flat. In some embodiments, side surfaces  696  are disposed at an oblique angle  698  relative to one another. In some embodiments, oblique angle  698  is approximately 45 degrees. In some embodiments, oblique angle  698  may be equal to oblique angle  498 . 
     In some embodiments, outer surfaces  484 ,  494  and outer surfaces  684 ,  694  may have corresponding curvatures (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ). Such corresponding curvatures may, for example, allow magnets  480 ,  490  to be disposed more closely to magnets  680 ,  690 , which may increase the magnetic interaction between magnet array  470  and magnet array  670 . An increased magnetic interaction may, for example, provide a stronger connection between retainer  200  and display stem  600 , or may allow smaller magnets  480 ,  490 ,  680 ,  690  to achieve magnetic attraction that is sufficient to hold and/or orient retainer  200  on display stem  600 . 
     Magnets described herein (e.g., magnets  480 ,  490 ,  680  and  690  may include, but are not limited to, rare earth magnets, such as Neodymium magnets, or electromagnets. Magnets described herein (e.g., magnets  480 ,  490 ,  680  and  690 ) may be replaced with material that is attractive to magnets (e.g., ferromagnetic material or ferrimagnetic material). For example, where magnetic interaction is described above between magnets, some of the magnets may be replaced with a magnetically-attractive material. 
     As mentioned above, magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may automatically orient retainer  200  relative to display stem  600 , for example, into one of one or more predefined orientations.  FIG. 7C , for example, shows magnet arrays  470  disposed in one predefined orientation relative to magnet array  670 . As shown, in the predefined orientation, the magnetic axis  482  of each of first magnets  480  may be aligned with the magnetic axis  682  of a corresponding first magnet  680  that is disposed adjacent to each of the first magnets  480 . Further, the polar orientation of each first magnet  480  may be the opposite of the corresponding first magnet  680  such that corresponding first magnets  480  and  680  attract one another (e.g., the positive pole of a first magnet  480  may be disposed adjacent to the negative pole of a second magnet  680 , or vice versa). 
     When magnet arrays  470  are not in one of the predefined orientations relative to magnet array  670  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 7D ), magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may cause first magnet arrays  470  to rotate about retainer body axis  40  relative to magnet array  670  and into a predefined orientation. As shown in  FIG. 7D , for example, when magnet arrays  470  are not in a predefined orientation, the magnetic axis  482  of each of first magnets  480  may not be aligned with the magnetic axis  682  of an adjacent first magnet  680  and/or the polar orientation of adjacent first magnets  480 ,  680  may not be opposite one another (e.g., the positive pole of a first magnet  480  may be disposed adjacent to the positive pole of a second magnet  680 ). Accordingly, magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may cause magnet arrays  470  to rotate about retainer body axis  40  into one of the predefined orientations relative to magnet array  670 . 
     If a user (e.g., a customer testing a product) removes retainer  200  and product  10  from display stem  600  and then product retainer  200  and product  10  are returned to display stem  600 , magnet arrays  470  and  670  may automatically orient product retainer  200  and product  10  relative to display stem  600  (if the product retainer  200  and product  10  are not already in a predefined orientation). For example, if retainer body  400  of retainer  200  is received within recess  622  of display stem  600  such that magnet arrays  470  are not in a predefined orientation (see, e.g.,  FIG. 7D ), magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may cause retainer body  400  to rotate about retainer body axis  40  to the nearest predefined orientation. Similarly, if a user rotates retainer  200  and product  10  while retainer body  400  is within recess  622  (e.g., when retainer  200  is positioned on display stem  600  as shown, for example, in  FIG. 1 ) and then releases the retainer  200  and product  10 , magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may cause retainer body  400  to rotate about retainer body axis  40  to the nearest predefined orientation (if the product retainer  200  and product  10  are not already in a predefined orientation). 
     For example,  FIG. 7C  shows magnet arrays  470  in a first predefined orientation relative to magnet array  670 , and  FIG. 7E  shows magnet arrays  470  in a second predefined orientation relative to magnet array  670 . Further,  FIG. 7D  shows magnet arrays  470  in a non-predefined orientation relative to magnet array  670 , where the rotational position of magnet arrays  470  relative to the first predefined orientation is defined by an angle  472 , and where the rotational position of magnet arrays  470  relative to the second predefined orientation is defined by an angle  474 . If, for example, magnet arrays  470  are positioned as shown in  FIG. 7D  and are free to rotate about retainer body axis  40  (e.g., after a user has released the product), magnetic interaction between magnet arrays  470  and  670  may cause magnet arrays  470  to rotate about retainer body axis  40  into either one of the predefined orientations depending upon the relative values of angles  472  and  474 . For example, if angle  472  is less than angle  474 , magnet arrays  470  may rotate about retainer body axis  40  in a counterclockwise direction and into the first predefined orientation shown in  FIG. 7C . However, if angle  472  is greater than angle  474 , magnet arrays  470  may rotate about retainer body axis  40  in a clockwise direction and into the predefined orientation shown in  FIG. 7E . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , for example, cable-retraction unit  700  may include a cover  710 , a base  720 , and a cable spool  730 . Cable-retraction unit  700  may be configured to manage retaining cable  500  and/or to return retainer  200  to a predefined position (e.g., on display stem  600 ) when not being handled by a user. 
     In some embodiments, base  720  includes a cable-biasing mechanism  724  that is configured to provide a biasing force to retaining cable  500 . For example, cable-biasing mechanism  724  may bias cable spool  730  to rotate in a certain direction relative to wind axis  70 . Cable-biasing mechanism  724  may bias cable spool  730  to rotate such that retaining cable  500  is biased to wind onto cable spool  730 , thereby biasing retaining cable  500  to retract into cable-retraction unit  700 . In some embodiments, cable-biasing mechanism  724  provides a constant tension to retaining cable  500  as it is wound and unwound from cable spool  730 . In some embodiments, cable-biasing mechanism  724  provides a constant tension to retaining cable  500  through the range of extension of the cable, which is to say that cable-biasing mechanism  724  provides a constant tension to retaining cable  500  when it is at all points between its minimum extended length and maximum extended length. In some embodiments, cable-biasing mechanism  726  includes a spring such as, for example, a torsional spring. In some embodiments, cable-biasing mechanism  726  includes a constant tension spring. In some embodiments, cable-biasing mechanism includes one or more motors (e.g., electric motors) that are configured to provide tension to retaining cable  500 . 
     Cover  710  may be generally cylindrical in shape and may include a cable opening  712  though which retaining cable  500  may extend from as it is wound and unwound from cable spool  730 , for example. In some embodiments, cable spool  730  includes an upper portion  732  (e.g., a disc with a diameter greater than that of fully-wound cable  500 ) and a lower portion  734  (e.g., a disc with a diameter greater than that of fully-wound cable  500 ) that are configured to guide retaining cable  500  as it is wound and unwound from cable spool  730 . In some embodiments, cable spool  730  may be coupled to rotation tray  722 , where rotation tray  722  is coupled to and biased by cable-biasing mechanism  724 . 
     In some embodiments, cable spool  730  may be configured such that retaining cable  500  is wound onto cable spool  730  in a single layer, which is to say that retaining cable  500  is wound spirally about a wind axis  70  in a single plane (see, e.g., retaining cable  500  in  FIG. 9 ). Winding retaining cable  500  in single layer may help retaining cable  500  to unwind from cable spool  730  smoothly. For example, if retaining cable  500  were not wound in a single layer, retaining cable  500  may cross and/or overlap itself as it is wound onto cable spool  730 . Such cable-crossing and/or overlapping may create inconsistent tensioning in the retaining cable  500  as it is unwound from cable spool  730 . When a user lifts retainer  200  from display stem  600  such inconsistent tension may cause the cable to unwind in a bumpy, jolty, or otherwise unsmooth manner, which may detract from a customer&#39;s experience when handling and testing the displayed product. Thus, by winding retaining cable  500  in a single layer and biasing retaining cable  500  to retract with a constant tension using cable-biasing mechanism  724 , retaining cable  500  may wind and unwind from cable spool  730  in a smooth, consistent manner. Smoothly winding and unwinding retaining cable  500  may also help to prolong the life and fidelity of the cable, for example, by reducing the amount of wear on the cable as a result of cycling the cable in an out of cable-retraction unit  700  over time. Cable  500  may be wound in a single layer due, in some embodiments, to the spacing of upper portion  732  and lower portion  734 , which—as mentioned above—may be formed as discs. The wound cable  500  may occupy the space between upper portion  732  and lower portion  734 . To help prevent cable from winding in other than a single layer, upper portion  732  may be spaced away from lower portion  734  by less than twice the diameter of cable  500  (e.g., less than 1.5 times the diameter of cable  500 , or by the diameter of cable  500 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , for example, in some embodiments, retaining cable  500  may extend across a pulley  752  of pulley assembly  750  between cable-retraction unit  700  and display stem  600 . In some embodiments, retaining cable  500  is wound onto cable spool  730  about a substantially vertical wind axis  70 . However, display stem  600  and retainer  200  may be disposed vertically above cable-retraction unit  700  (e.g., above top surface  21  of retail fixture  20 ). Thus, pulley  752  may be used to adjust the orientation of retaining cable  500  from extending in a substantially horizontal direction to a substantially vertical direction before retaining cable  500  extends through display stem  600 . In some embodiments, pulley assembly  750  may also be used to couple display stem  600  to retail fixture  20 . For example, pulley assembly  750  and display stem  600  may be disposed on opposing sides of top surface  21  of retail fixture  20 . One or more fasteners may extend between pulley assembly  750  and display stem  600 , thereby coupling display stem  600  to top surface  21 . 
     In some embodiments, cable spool  730  and/or retaining cable  500  are removable and replaceable, which may increase the modularity of product-display system  100 . For example, if retaining cable  500  becomes damaged (e.g., due to fatigue from cycling the cable), the cable and/or cable spool may be replaced individually rather than replacing the entire cable-retraction unit  700 . Similarly, if a new type of product  10  or different retainer  200  configuration is need, for example, a different retaining cable  500  (e.g., with a different type of cable plug  510 ) may be substituted in cable-retraction unit  700  rather than replacing the entire unit. 
     In some embodiments, cable-retraction unit  700  may include a control unit  760  that is configured to control certain operations of cable-retraction unit  700  and/or product  10 . For example, control unit  760  may be configured to detect the type of product  10  that is disposed on retainer  200 . For example, control unit  760  may receive electronic data from a voltage sensor that is electrically coupled to product  10 , and may determine the power to supply to product  10  based on the electronic data received from the voltage sensor. In some embodiments, control unit  760  may receive electronic data from product  10  and may determine the power to supply to product  10  based on the electronic data received from the product  10 . Control unit  760  may be or may include, for example, an electronic device for storing and processing electronic data according to instructions given to it in a program. Control unit  760  may be or may include, for example, a computer, microcontroller, or the like. Control unit  760  may include, for example, a processor, memory, and communication infrastructure for sending and receiving electronic data. 
     In some embodiments, control unit  760  may adjust the amount of power transmitted through retaining cable  500  to compensate for damage to retaining cable  500  (e.g., from fatigue). For example, a partial fracture in a conductor of retaining cable  500  may decrease the efficiency of power transmission of retaining cable  500  and may cause an increased voltage drop across retaining cable  500 . Accordingly, control unit  760  may use electronic data received from a voltage sensor, for example, to detect an increased voltage drop across retaining cable  500 . Control unit  760  may then, for example, increase the amount of power transmitted through retaining cable  500  to compensate from the damage conductor. Such a configuration may extend the useable lifespan of a retaining cable  500 , and may help to ensure that product  10  receives the correct power supply. 
     As mentioned above, product-display system  100  (e.g., via device  384 , see, e.g.,  FIG. 3A ) may be configured to monitor characteristics (e.g., the voltage) of the power provided to product  10  via retaining cable  500 . For example, one or more inputs of processing device  384  (e.g., input pins or ports) may be electrically coupled to, for example, one or more bracket contacts  378  (e.g., the bracket contacts  378  that are used to transmit power to product  10 ) and/or to one or more conductors of bracket cable  370  (e.g., the conductors of bracket cable  370  that are used to transmit power to product  10 ). Processing device  384  may, for example, measure the voltage difference between two bracket contacts  378  and/or two conductors of bracket cable  370  in order to determine the voltage of the power being provided to product  10 . Processing device  384  may then transmit to cable-retraction unit  700  (e.g., via retaining cable  500 ) electronic data that includes the measured voltage of the power being provided to product  10 . In some embodiments, a computing device of product-display system  100  (e.g., control unit  760  of cable-retraction unit  700 ) may receive the electronic data from processing device  384  and compare the measured voltage received by processing device  384  to the output voltage of cable-retraction unit  700 . In some embodiments, the output voltage of cable-retraction unit  700  may be determined by control unit  760 , for example. If the measured voltage received by processing device  384  is different (e.g., greater than a threshold acceptable difference) than the output voltage of cable-retraction unit  700 , control unit  760  of cable-retraction unit  700 , power module  740 , or other power controller of product-display system  100 , for example, may adjust the characteristics (e.g., voltage, current, etc.) of power transmitted through retaining cable  500  in order to compensate for the determined difference. As mentioned above, such a configuration may be used, for example, to compensate for damage to conductors of retaining cable  500 , and may help to ensure that product  10  receives the correct power supply. 
     As mentioned above, processing device  384  may also be configured to translate electronic data from one communication protocol to another. For example, cable-retraction unit  700  may be configured to send and receive electronic data using a first communication protocol (e.g., using a universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter (“UART”)), but product  10  may be configured to send and receive electronic data using a different communication protocol (e.g., a product-specific standard). Thus, processing device  384  may translate electronic data received from cable-retraction unit  700  into electronic data that may be understood by product  10 , or vice versa. In this manner, processing device  384  may permit a wide range of products  10  to communicate with cable-retraction unit  700 , since the data received by cable-retraction unit  700  may be consistent and independent of the data preferences or requirements of product  10 . 
     In some embodiments, cable-retraction unit  700  includes a power port  716  though which cable-retraction unit  700  may receive power from a power module  740 . In some embodiments, cable-retraction unit  700  includes more than one power port  716 . For example, cable-retraction unit  700  may include two power ports  716 , where one power port  716  may be configured to receive power from power module  740 , and the other power port  716  may be configured to send power to another cable-retraction unit  700 . In this manner, several cable-retraction units  700  may be daisy-chained together such that two or more cable-retraction units  700  may receive power using a single power module  740 . 
     In some embodiments, power modules  740  may be connected to a common power bus  802  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 10 ) that may be, for example, connected to grid power and may provide power (e.g., AC power) to retail fixture  20 . Power modules  740  may, for example, convert power from one form to another (e.g., from AC power to DC power). In some embodiments, power modules  740  may be sized such that they may provide power to a range of products  10  having a range of power requirements (e.g., smart watches, smartphones, tablet computer, and laptop computers). Thus, each power module  740  and cable-retraction unit  700  may not be limited to powering and securing a particular product  10  or type of products  10  (e.g., smartphones). In this manner, the type and/or arrangement of products  10  being displayed may be easily reconfigured without changes to cable-retraction unit  700  and/or to power module  740 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , for example, product-display system  100  may include a security system  800 . Security system  800  may be configured, for example, to detect if product  10  has been disconnected from product-display system  100  and/or if portions of product display system  100  (e.g., product retainer  200  with product  10  retained therein) have been disconnected from retail fixture  20 . As described in further detail below, products  10  themselves may also be configured to detect if they have been disconnected from retail fixture  20 . 
     Security system  800  may include a central alarm module  820  and one or more remote alarm modules  810 . In some embodiments, a retail fixture  20  includes one central alarm module  820  and includes one or more remote alarm modules  810  that are spatially displaced from the central alarm module  820  and provide security to certain products  10  on retail fixture  20 . For example, in some embodiments, retail fixture  20  includes one remote alarm module  810  that corresponds to each of the display mats  22  of retail fixture  20  (as shown, in  FIG. 10  for example). In some embodiments, each remote alarm module may be electrically coupled to one or more cable-retraction units  700  using, for example, alarm module port  714  (see  FIG. 8 ). Thus, one remote alarm module  810  may provide security to several products  10  simultaneously. 
     In some embodiments, central alarm module  820  and/or remote alarm modules  810  include backup batteries  824  that may allow security system  800  to remain powered during a power outage, for example, where power bus  802  is not providing power to retail fixture  20 . 
     In some embodiments, remote alarm modules  810  are electrically coupled to central alarm module  820  using a bus cable  830 . Bus cable  830  may be configured such that electronic data may be sent between remote alarm modules  810  and central alarm module  820 , and/or from one remote alarm module  810  to another. In some embodiments, one or more remote alarm modules  810  are electrically coupled to central alarm module  820  and to one another using a single bus cable  830 . In some embodiments, remote alarm modules  810  may also receive power from central alarm module  820  (or a separate power supply) via bus cable  830 . Such a configuration may increase the modularity and re-configurability of the system to accommodate various numbers of products  10  and/or differently-configured retail fixtures  20 . 
     Bus cable  830  may be, for example, one or more electrical conductors that may allow multiple devices (e.g., remote alarm modules  810  and central alarm module  820 ) to be connected in such a way that each device connected to bus cable  830  may send electronic data to, and receive electronic data from, every other device connected to bus cable  830 . Bus cable  830  may be or may include, for example, a controller area network (“CAN”) cable, an RS-485 cable, an Ethernet cable, or other data bus cable capable of transmitting electronic data (e.g., computer-processable data and/or information represented by an analog or digital signal). In some embodiments, remote alarm modules  810  and central alarm module  820  may be configured to communicate wirelessly and may operate on a variety of frequencies, such as Very High Frequency (e.g., between 30 MHz and 300 MHz) or Ultra High Frequency (e.g., between 300 MHz and 3 GHz) ranges, and may be compatible with certain network standards such as cell phone, power-line communication, WIFI™, or BLUETOOTH® wireless networks, for example. 
     In some embodiments, remote alarm modules  810  and central alarm module  820  may be configured to communicate via both a wired and a wireless connection. For example, electronic data related to device security (e.g., device arm and disarm commands) may be sent using only a wired connection, and other electronic data (e.g., event logs and diagnostics information) or data requiring a large amount of bandwidth may be sent using a wireless connection. 
     In some embodiments, alarm modules  810  and  820  include control units. The control units of alarm modules  810 ,  820  may be similar to control unit  760  described above. The control units may be or may include, for example, an electronic device for storing and processing electronic data according to instructions given to it in a program. The control units may be or may include, for example, a computer, microcontroller, or the like. The control units may include, for example, a processor, memory, and communication infrastructure for sending and receiving electronic data. Alarm modules  810  and  820  may each include a communication controller (e.g., a CAN controller) and a transceiver (e.g., a CAN transceiver) that may permit electronic data to be sent between devices according to a particular communication protocol (e.g., CAN). 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , for example, cable-retraction units  700  may be electrically coupled to remote alarm module  810  using a data cable  812 . In some embodiments, each cable-retraction unit  700  is connected to a remote alarm module  810  via its own data cable  812 . In some embodiments, several cable-retraction units  700  are connected to a remote alarm module  810  using a single data cable  812  (e.g., a bus data cable). Data cable  812  may be configured such that electronic data may be sent between cable-retraction units  700  and remote alarm module  810  and/or from one cable-retraction unit  700  to another. Data cable  812  may be or may include, for example, a controller area network (“CAN”) cable, an RS-485 cable, an Ethernet cable, or other data cable or data bus cable capable of transmitting electronic data. In some embodiments, cable-retraction unit  700  and remote alarm module  810  may be configured to communicate wirelessly and may operate on a variety of frequencies, such as Very High Frequency (e.g., between 30 MHz and 300 MHz) or Ultra High Frequency (e.g., between 300 MHz and 3 GHz) ranges, and may be compatible with certain network standards such as cell phone, power-line communication, WIFI™, or BLUETOOTH® wireless networks, for example. 
     In some embodiments, cable-retraction units  700  and remote alarm modules  810  may be configured to communicate via both a wired and a wireless connection. For example, electronic data related to device security (e.g., device arm and disarm commands) may be sent using only a wired connection, and other electronic data (e.g., event logs and diagnostics information) or data requiring a large amount of bandwidth may be sent using a wireless connection. 
     As mentioned above, remote alarm module  810  may include a communication controller (e.g., a CAN controller) and a transceiver (e.g., a CAN transceiver). Likewise control unit  760  described above may also include a communication controller (e.g., a CAN controller) and a transceiver (e.g., a CAN transceiver) such that electronic data may be sent between remote alarm module  810  and cable-retraction unit  700  according to a particular communication protocol (e.g., CAN). 
     Central alarm module  820 , remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700  and/or products  10  may together form a communication network. The communication network may be, for example, a network where one device (e.g., central alarm module  820 ) may send electronic data (e.g., directly or indirectly) to one or more other devices (e.g., remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700 , and/or products  10 ) on the network. 
     In some embodiments, central alarm module  820  is configured to directly send electronic data to and/or receive electronic data from product  10  through a direct electrical connection between central alarm module  820  and product  10 , for example. In some embodiments, central alarm module  820  is configured to indirectly send electronic data to and/or receive electronic data from product  10  through an indirect electrical connection between central alarm module  820  and product  10  (e.g., via remote alarm module  810  and/or cable-retraction unit  700 ). For example, electronic data may be transmitted from central alarm module  820  to remote alarm module  810 . Then, electronic data may be transmitted from remote alarm module to cable-retraction unit  700 . Then, electronic data may be transmitted from cable-retraction unit  700 , through retaining cable  500 , then through cable plug  510 , then through cable port  460 , then through body contacts  438 , then through bracket contacts  378 , then through bracket cable  370 , then through bracket connector  380 , where the electronic data may finally be received by product  10 . As described above, each of the elements in this series may be electrically coupled to one another. In some embodiments, other components may be electrically disposed between the described elements in the series. Similarly, electronic data may be sent from product  10  to central alarm module  820  following the reverse path. Further, electronic data may be sent between remote alarm module  810  and product  10 , between cable-retraction unit  700  and product  10 , between remote alarm module  810  and cable-retraction unit  700 , and/or between other devices of security system  800  using portions of the electrical path described above. 
     In some embodiments, central alarm module  820 , remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700 , and/or products  10  are configured to send electronic data to one another in the form of messages (e.g., frames, message frames, data frames, or the like). As mentioned above, electronic data sent via bus cable  830  (e.g., by central alarm module  820 ) may be received by all devices connected to bus cable  830  (e.g., remote alarm modules  810 ). However, in some cases, a message sent via bus cable  830  may include commands and/or information intended for a particular device in the network, rather than all devices in the network. Thus, the messages may include identification information (e.g., a serial number) that indicates for which device the message is intended. 
     For example, central alarm module  820  may send a message that is intended for a particular remote alarm module  810  and/or a particular product  10 , and the message may include identification information (e.g., a serial number) that is unique to the particular remote alarm module  810  and/or to the particular product  10 . When a message is sent via bus cable  830 , each remote alarm module  810  connected to bus  830  may receive the message, and use the identification information within the message to determine if the message is intended for it or intended for a product  10  that is connected to it. If the remote alarm module  810  determines that the message was intended for it, the remote alarm module  810  may then proceed to follow the commands sent along with the message. If the remote alarm module  810  determines that the message was intended for a product  10  that is connected to it, the remote alarm module  810  may then relay the message to the particular product  10  (e.g., via data cable  812  and cable-retraction unit  700 ). If the remote alarm module  810  determines that the message was not intended for it and not intended for a product  10  that is connected to it, the remote alarm module  810  may ignore the commands sent along with the message. In some embodiments, the message may include identification information for more than one remote alarm module  810  and/or product  10 , such that several remote alarm modules  810  and/or products  10  may follow the commands sent with the single message. In some embodiments, the message may include no identification information (or information indicating that the message is intended for all remote alarm modules  810  and/or products  10 ) and, in such a case, all remote alarm modules  810  and/or products  10  may follow the commands send with the message. 
     Messages sent between central alarm module  820 , remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700  and/or products  10  may include, for example, arm and disarm commands, event logs, diagnostics information, and/or other information related to security system  800 , product display system  100 , and/or products  10 . 
     In some embodiments, central alarm module  820  includes a control module  822  for arming and disarming security system  800 . In some embodiments, control module  822  may include a radio-frequency identification (“RFID”) reader, a near-field communication (“NFC”) reader or the like, that may be used to arm and disarm security system using, for example, an RFID card, a smart card, or an NFC enable device (e.g., a smartphone). In some embodiments, when control module  822  detects an authorized key (e.g., an authorized RFID card, smart card, or NFC enable device) central alarm module  820  may send a message to remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700 , and/or products  10  that may include an arm or disarm command that may, for example, cause remote alarm modules  810 , cable-retraction units  700 , and/or products  10  to change from an armed state to a disarmed state, or vice versa. 
     In some embodiments, a remote device (e.g., a remote server) may be used to arm and disarm security system  800  and may be connected to security system  800 , for example, via an external data connection  804 . The remote device may also, for example, log event data, diagnostics information, and/or other information related to security system  800 , product display system  100 , and/or products  10 . 
     In some embodiments, products  10  may be used to arm and/or disarm security system  800 . For example, a user (e.g., an employee) may use a special application, menu, or the like on one of products  10  in order to send arm and/or disarm commands to other products  10  and/or alarm modules  810  and  820 . The employee may be required to enter a special passcode (e.g., entered via a user interface of product  10 ) in order to send the arm and/or disarm commands. In some embodiments, product  10  may include biological sensors (e.g., a fingerprint detector or face detector) that may be used to determine the identity of the employee. If product  10  determines that the employee is authorized, product  10  may permit the employee to send the arm and/or disarm commands from the device. 
     In some embodiments, all products  10  of retail fixture  20  may be armed and/or disarmed simultaneously. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to disarm only one product  10 , or several products  10 , rather than disarming the entire retail fixture  20 . Thus, in some embodiments, individual products  10  or a subset or products  10  of retail fixture  20  may be armed and/or disarmed while the state of other products  10  of retail fixture  20  remain unchanged. Accordingly, as described above, messages including arm and disarm commands may also include identifying information (e.g., a serial number) indicating which products  10  should be armed or disarmed. 
     In some embodiments, electrical disconnection between any of, for example, central alarm module  820  and remote alarm module  810 , remote alarm module  810  and cable-retraction unit  700 , cable-retraction unit  700  and retaining cable  500 , retaining cable  500  and cable plug  510 , cable plug  510  and cable port  460 , cable port  460  and body contacts  438 , body contacts  438  and bracket contacts  378 , bracket contacts  378  and bracket cable  370 , bracket cable  370  and bracket connector  380 , and/or bracket connector  380  and product  10  may cause an alarm to be triggered if product  10  is in an armed state. If, for example, either of alarm modules  810 ,  820  determine that product  10  is no longer sending and/or receiving data, an alarm may be triggered. Similarly, if either of alarm modules  810 ,  820  determine that product  10  is no longer receiving power, an alarm may be triggered. 
     In some embodiments, alarm module  810 ,  820  may delay triggering an alarm after an electrical disconnection with product  10  is detected. For example, after an electrical disconnection is detected, alarm module  810 ,  820  may wait for a preset amount of time before triggering an alarm. If during the preset amount of time an electrical connection is reestablished with product  10 , the alarm module may no longer trigger an alarm. Such a configuration may, for example, decrease false alarms due to temporary loss of electrical connection. 
     Central alarm module  820 , remote alarm modules  810 , and/or cable-retraction units  700  may store in their internal memory, for example, information related to the state (e.g., armed or disarmed) of products  10 . For example, remote alarm module  810  may maintain a list of products  10  that are connected to it and whether or not they are in an armed state or a disarmed state. Remote alarm module  810  may update the list of products  10  and their state based on, for example, the arm and disarm commands sent by central alarm module  820 , cable-retraction units  700 , and/or products  10 . If remote alarm module  810  detects that a product  10  is no longer connected to retail fixture  20 , remote alarm module  810  may check if that product  10  is currently in an armed or disarmed state. If remote alarm module  810  determines that product  10  is in an armed state, remote alarm module  810  may then send an alarm message to central alarm module  820  (e.g., indicating that an alarm should be triggered). The alarm message may indicate that a product  10  has been disconnected from a retail fixture  20  without authorization. In some embodiments the alarm message may identify the particular product  10  that has been disconnected and/or retail fixture  20  that it has been disconnected from. 
     In some embodiments, when central alarm module  820  receives an alarm message from remote alarm module  810  (e.g., indicating that an armed product  10  has been disconnected from retail fixture  20  without authorization), central alarm module  820  may make a determination as to how the alarm should be triggered. For example, in some embodiments, characteristics of the alarm may be variable dependent on the circumstances that triggered the alarm. For example, the characteristics of the alarm may be dependent upon the severity of the security breach. For example, if a remote alarm module  810  indicates to central alarm module  820  that a product  10  has been disconnected from retail fixture  20 , central alarm module  820  may, for example trigger a silent alarm that may quietly notify one or more employees of the breach. However, if one or more remote alarm modules  810  indicates that several products  10  have been disconnected from retail fixture  20 , central alarm module  820  may, for example, trigger an audible alarm. Accordingly, security system  800  may be customized to fit the retail environment in which it is being implemented. 
     In some embodiments, products  10  may also store in their internal memory information related to their own state (e.g., arm or disarmed). For example, product  10  may maintain a record of whether or not it is in an armed state or a disarmed state may update the record based on, for example, the arm and disarm commands sent by central alarm module  820 , remote alarm module  810 , cable-retraction unit  700 , and/or other products  10 . If product  10  detects that it is no longer connected to retail fixture  20 , product  10  may check if it is currently in an armed or disarmed state. If product  10  determines it is in an armed state, product  10  may then trigger an alarm and/or may enter an alarming mode. 
     In some embodiments, in an alarming mode, product  10  may emit an audible alarm, display warnings or other graphics (e.g., on its display screen), or perform other action in order to draw attention to product  10 . In some embodiments, in an alarming mode, the processing capabilities of product  10  may be used to alter the functionality of product  10 . For example, product  10  may disable user interactions (e.g., by disabling user interfaces of the device), erase the memory or the product  10 , and/or require a password in order to boot the device. In this manner, since product  10  may become unusable to an unauthorized user, the value of product  10  may be decreased, which may deter unscrupulous persons from stealing products  10 . In some embodiments, in an alarming mode, product  10  may also automatically transmit information to remote devices (e.g., message with location information) in order to aid in recovery of product  10 . 
     As mentioned above, alarm modules  810 ,  820  may include backup batteries  824  that may allow security system  800  to remain powered during a power outage, for example, where power bus  802  is not providing power to retail fixture  20 . Likewise, products  10  may also include internal batteries that may keep products  10  powered regardless of whether or not they are receiving power from cable-retraction unit  700 . In this manner, during a power outage, for example, products  10  may still determine whether or not they are connected to retail fixture  20  and alarm modules  810 ,  820  may still determine whether or not products  10  are connected to retail fixture  20 . 
     In some embodiments, the communication network described above may be utilized not only to provide security to product  10 , but also to diagnose and troubleshoot problems with security system  800 . For example, central alarm module  820  and/or products  10  may log data that includes, for example, when alarms were triggered (e.g., time and date) and why alarms were triggered (e.g., a disconnection between cable-retraction unit  700  and product  10 ). Such information may be used by a technician, for example, in order to guide troubleshooting, to reduce false alarms, and to make system improvements. 
     Since security system  800  may utilize a chain of communication between devices, the chain of communication may be used to determine problems with security system  800 . For example, assume that a retaining cable  500  has broken conductors and is not transmitting data. In a diagnostics mode, for example, central alarm module  820  may send a message to remote alarm module  810  via bus  830 , and remote alarm module  810  may receive the message and send a message of receipt to central alarm module  820 . Remote alarm module  810  may then send a message to cable-retraction unit  700 , and cable-retraction unit  700  may receive the message and send a message of receipt to remote alarm module  810 . Cable-retraction unit  700  may then attempt to send a message to processing device  384  (which will not be received, since its broken retaining cable  500  is not transmitting data). If cable-retraction unit  700  does not receive a message of receipt from processing device  384 , cable-retraction unit  700  may send a message to central alarm module  820  (e.g., via remote alarm module  810 ), and central alarm module  820  may log the event. Accordingly, a technician may surmise from the logged event that there may be a problem with retaining cable  500  and/or processing device  384 , and may use this information to begin troubleshooting. 
     Further, product  10  may also be used to diagnose and troubleshoot problems with security system  800 . For example, product  10  may send a message to processing device  384 , and processing device  384  may receive the message and send a message of receipt to product  10 . Then, processing device  384  may attempt to send a message to cable-retraction unit  700  (which will not be received, since its broken retaining cable  500  is not transmitting data). If processing device  384  does not receive a message of receipt from cable-retraction unit  700 , processing device  384  may send a message to product  10 , and product  10  may log the event. Accordingly, a technician may surmise from the logged event that there may be a problem with retaining cable  500  and/or cable-retraction unit  700 , and may use this information to begin troubleshooting. Further, a technician may surmise from event log of product  10  and the event log of central alarm module  820  that both cable-retraction unit  700  and processing device  384  appear to be functioning. Accordingly, the technician may surmise that the problem is likely to lie with retaining cable  500  and may then, for example, replace retaining cable  500 . 
     In some embodiments, products  10  that are not capable of data transmission (e.g., device accessories) may nonetheless be integrated into security system  800 . For example, a product  10  may be coupled to retail fixture  20  using a retaining cable having a pressure switch that remains depressed when product  10  is coupled to the retaining cable. The pressure switch may be interconnected to alarm module port  714 , and remote alarm module  810  may trigger an alarm if necessary based on changes in the state of the pressure switch. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 11-16B , in some embodiments, retainer  200  may be fixed to display stem  600 . A retailer may desire such a configuration to display products  10  that are not intended to be picked up or that are intended to be used when resting upon a surface (e.g., top surface  21 ). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11 and 13 , for example, product  10  may be a tablet computer and may include a keyboard  16 . In some examples, during normal use of tablet  10  and keyboard  16 , tablet  10  may be positioned at a predetermined angle  17  relative to keyboard  16 . Thus, display stem  600  and retainer  200  may be configured to hold tablet  10  and keyboard  16  at a predetermined height and angle such that keyboard  16  may rest flatly upon top surface  21  of retail fixture  20  while tablet  10  is positioned at its predetermined angle  17  relative to keyboard  16  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 13 ). In some embodiments, angle  604  and angle  17  are supplementary angles. 
     In some embodiments, to prevent retainer  200  from being lifted from display stem  600 , retainer bracket  300  may include bracket teeth  309  disposed on outer surface  304  of retainer bracket  300 . In some embodiments, bracket teeth  309  may extend around retainer body  400 . Bracket teeth  309  may correspond to stem teeth  609  that may be disposed in opening  616  or of stem body  610 . To couple retainer  200  to display stem  600 , retainer body  400  and bracket teeth  309  of retainer  200  may first be inserted into first opening  616  of stem body  610  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 15 and 16A ). Then, retainer body  400  and bracket teeth  309  may be rotated within opening  616  such that bracket teeth  309  mesh with stem teeth  609  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16B ), thereby coupling retainer  200  to display stem  600 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , for example, product retainers of product-display system  100  may include configurations that are different than those described above. For example, product-display system  100  may include a product retainer  900 . Product retainer  900  may include a product support  910  configured to support and secure a product  10 . As shown in  FIG. 17 , for example, product  10  may be a watch, smartwatch, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, product support  910  is coupled to a base  920 , and base  920  is coupled to retainer body  400 . In some embodiments, base  920  is rigidly coupled to display stem  600 . In some embodiments, product retainer  900  and retainer body  400  may be lifted from display stem  600  and retained by retaining cable  500  as described above with respect to retainer bracket  300  and retainer body  400 . 
     Product support  910  may include a charger recess  912  configured to receive a charger  930  for providing power to product  10 . In some embodiments, product support  910  may also include a cable recess  914  configured to receive a cable  932  of charger  930 . In some embodiments, product support  910  may include an internal channel (not shown) through which cable  932  may be extended from charger  930 , through product support  910  and into base  920 . In some embodiments, cable  932  may include one or more conductors that are electrically coupled directly to cable port  460  of retainer body  400 . 
     In some embodiments, product  10  is secured to product support  910  and/or charger  930  using an adhesive (e.g., an adhesive strip  308 , described above). In some embodiments, charger  930  is secured to product support  910  using an adhesive (e.g., an adhesive strip  308 , described above). 
     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not target to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20200228
Publication Date: 20220111
Grant Date: 20220111
Priority Date: 20190621
Inventors: YANG, SHENG
WANG, Eric W.
MICHALSKE, STEVEN C.
CHING, Olivia
WOOSLEY, CLAYTON R.
YUEN, Samuel Wing Man
HACK, PAUL JOSEPH
MARIANO, RICARDO A.
CHEN, CHIEN TSUN
TZIVISKOS, GEORGE
SCHWALBACH, CHARLES A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G08B13/1418", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M13/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/0246", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47B2220/0036", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1418", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/021", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M13/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/40", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/046", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/0246", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/12", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1463", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/0246", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/065", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/02", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/40", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1418", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/046", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/021", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/0246", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M13/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G08B13/1463", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/12", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/0246", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M11/041", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "F16M2200/065", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 74038864