PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9954386-B2
Application Number: US-201514837479-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Fixtures for displaying products

Abstract:
A display apparatus, such as a table, for display consumer products, such as electronic devices, is disclosed. The table may include a display cavity for displaying products. The display cavity may include a transparent glass panel defining a top portion thereof so as to allow consumers to view products housed within the display cavity. A display fixture for holding a consumer product with the display cavity is disclosed. A kit for aligning a plurality of nodes on the display panel is also disclosed. A DC-to-DC converter that can receive a DC input voltage via a first standard receptacle connector, convert the DC input voltage to a DC output voltage using regulator circuitry and provide the DC output voltage at a second standard receptacle connector is also disclosed. The DC-to-DC converter can include a compact, cosmetic, minimalist housing for containing a space-efficient printed circuit board that includes the regulator circuitry.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A display fixture comprising:
 a plug comprising:
 a body having a top exterior surface and a bottom exterior surface disposed opposite the top exterior surface, and 
 an electrical connector extending from the bottom exterior surface; 
 
 a rigid stem extending from the top exterior surface of the plug; and 
 an inductive charging mechanism attached to the stem and in electrical communication with the electrical connector,
 wherein the stem supports the charging mechanism above the top exterior surface of the plug. 
 
 
     
     
       2. The display fixture of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a printed circuit board disposed within the body and in electrical communication with the electrical connector; and 
 a wire at least partially disposed within the stem and electrically connecting the printed circuit board to the charging mechanism. 
 
     
     
       3. The display fixture of  claim 1 , wherein the plug further comprises a magnet disposed within the body of the plug. 
     
     
       4. The display fixture of  claim 1 , wherein the plug further comprises an alignment groove disposed on a side surface of the plug. 
     
     
       5. The display fixture of  claim 1 , wherein the electrical connector comprises a spring loaded pin. 
     
     
       6. The display fixture of  claim 1 , wherein the electrical connector is a power cord. 
     
     
       7. The display fixture of  claim 2 , wherein the printed circuit board is configured to control the amount of voltage delivered to the charging mechanism. 
     
     
       8. The display fixture of  claim 2 , wherein the printed circuit board is configured to control the amount of current delivered to the charging mechanism. 
     
     
       9. The display fixture of  claim 1 , wherein the stem comprises an extension extending from the top exterior surface of the plug and a ring attached to the extension and coupled to the charging mechanism, wherein the extension and the ring support the charging mechanism above the top exterior surface of the plug. 
     
     
       10. The display fixture of  claim 9 , wherein the ring comprises a first end coupled to a first side of the charging mechanism and a second end coupled to a second side of the charging mechanism opposite the first side. 
     
     
       11. A display apparatus for displaying a product, the display apparatus comprising:
 a display panel; and 
 the display fixture according to  claim 1  removably coupled to the display panel. 
 
     
     
       12. The display apparatus of  claim 11 , wherein the display fixture is removably disposed in a node on the display panel, and
 wherein the plug of the display fixture comprises a first alignment feature and the node comprises a second alignment feature configured to mate with the first alignment feature. 
 
     
     
       13. The display apparatus of  claim 11 , further comprising a product supported by the display fixture. 
     
     
       14. The display apparatus of  claim 11 , wherein the display apparatus is a table. 
     
     
       15. The display apparatus of  claim 11 , further comprising a cavity partially defined by the display panel, and wherein the display fixture is disposed within the cavity. 
     
     
       16. The display apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein the display panel defines a bottom portion of the cavity and a transparent panel defines a top portion of the cavity. 
     
     
       17. A display fixture, comprising:
 a plug comprising:
 a body comprising a cylindrical side exterior surface, 
 an electrical connector comprising a spring loaded pin extending from a bottom of the body, 
 a magnet coupled to the body, 
 an alignment groove disposed on the cylindrical side exterior surface, and 
 a printed circuit board disposed within the body and in electrical communication with the electrical connector; and 
 
 a charging mechanism in electrical communication with the printed circuit board and the electrical connector. 
 
     
     
       18. The display fixture of  claim 17 , wherein the body of the plug is configured to position the plug in a cylindrical node formed in a surface of a display table to thereby support the charging mechanism above the surface of the display table. 
     
     
       19. The display fixture of  claim 17 , comprising two spring loaded pins extending from the bottom of the body, wherein one of the pins is configured to receive power from an external source and the other pin is an electrical grounding pin. 
     
     
       20. The display fixture of  claim 17 , comprising two magnets coupled to the body of the plug, wherein the two magnets are disposed on opposite sides of the printed circuit board. 
     
     
       21. A product display fixture, comprising:
 a plug comprising an electrical connector extending from a bottom of the plug; 
 a stem comprising:
 an extension extending from a top surface of the plug, and 
 a ring attached to the extension; and 
 
 a puck attached to the ring, the puck comprising a charging surface and a charging mechanism in electrical communication with the electrical connector,
 wherein the extension and the ring support the puck above the top surface of the plug, and 
 wherein the ring and the puck are configured to support and charge a product on the product display fixture. 
 
 
     
     
       22. The product display fixture of  claim 21 , wherein the charging surface of the puck comprises a surface oriented at an oblique angle relative to the top surface of the plug. 
     
     
       23. The product display fixture of  claim 21 , comprising:
 a wire electrically connecting the charging mechanism and the electrical connector; and 
 a groove formed in the ring, wherein the wire is disposed within the groove. 
 
     
     
       24. The product display fixture of  claim 21 , wherein the charging surface comprises a concave shape. 
     
     
       25. A product display fixture assembly, comprising:
 the product display fixture of  claim 21 ; and 
 a watch disposed on the charging surface of the puck. 
 
     
     
       26. The product display fixture assembly of  claim 25 , wherein a portion of the watch wraps around the ring.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/045,455, filed on Sep. 3, 2014, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate generally to display systems and methods for displaying consumer products. More particularly, the present embodiments relate to tables and fixtures for displaying and providing power and/or data to consumer products. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A retailer or other person may desire to provide a table for displaying electronic devices and may also desire to provide power and/or data to the electronic devices. In some cases, the retailer may wish to provide a table having a secure and athletically pleasing display area for displaying electronic devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     A retailer or other user may have various locations within a store or other location for displaying electronic devices. The retailer may wish to provide display apparatuses, such as tables, at these locations to allow customers to view various displayed electronic devices. In some cases, the display apparatus may provide power and/or data to the electronic devices. In some cases, the display apparatus may provide a secure and aesthetically appealing display area for displaying the electronic devices. In some cases, the display area may be illuminated. In some cases, the temperature of the display area may be regulated. 
     In some embodiments, a table may include a display cavity for displaying products. The display cavity may include a glass panel defining a top portion thereof so as to allow consumers to view products housed within the display cavity. The table may include a lighting system for illuminating at least a portion of the display cavity. The lighting system may create any aesthetically appealing display cavity that focuses consumers&#39; attention on the products housed within the display cavity. The table may also include a cooling system for controlling the temperature of the table and specifically the temperature within the display cavity. The table may include a hinged display panel for supporting the products housed within the display cavity. For aesthetic and security purposes, the display panel may rotate from the bottom of the table such that a user can access the products. 
     To accomplish this, the retailer may use a display apparatus, such as a table, or elements thereof according to embodiments described herein. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a table. In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a top wall defining at least a portion of a top surface, a side wall extending downward from the top wall and defining a perimeter of a cavity formed in the table top and recessed from the top wall. The table top also may include a display panel defining at least a portion of a bottom of a cavity, where the display panel is rotatable about a first edge thereof, and a glass panel defining at least a portion of the top surface and located above at least a portion of the cavity. 
     In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a glass panel and a display panel disposed below the glass panel, forming a cavity between the table top and the glass panel, where the display panel includes a node to receive a display fixture for displaying a product. The table also may include a power supply system to supply power to the display fixture. 
     In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a top wall formed in part by a glass panel, a bottom wall formed in part by a display panel, and a display cavity side wall extending between the glass panel and the display panel, where the display cavity side wall, the glass panel, and the display panel together define a display cavity. The table also may include a lighting system for illuminating at least a portion of the display cavity, where the lighting system includes a light source disposed around a perimeter of the display cavity and a lens disposed around the perimeter of the display cavity between the light source and the display cavity, the lens being configured to diffuse light emitted from the light source. 
     In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a top wall, a bottom wall, and a cavity between the top wall and the bottom wall. The cavity may include a peripheral cavity and a display cavity disposed between portions of the peripheral cavity. The table also may include a cooling system having a controller to maintain the temperature in the display cavity within a determined range. 
     In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a top surface, a display cavity recessed from the top surface, and a glass panel defining at least a portion of the top surface and located above at least a portion of the display cavity. The glass panel may include a top glass layer defining a glass top surface, a bottom glass layer defining a glass bottom surface, and an ink film disposed between the top glass layer and the bottom glass layer. 
     In some embodiments, the table includes a table top having a top surface, a display cavity recessed from the top surface, a display panel forming a bottom surface of the display cavity and including a plurality of nodes each configured to receive a display fixture, a plurality of printed circuit boards disposed within the display panel below the plurality of nodes, and a power supply system in electrical communication with the plurality of printed circuit boards. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a display system. In some embodiments, the display system includes a display panel having a plurality of apertures extend through the display panel, a plurality of nodes disposed in the plurality of apertures, and a display fixture for holding a product, where the display fixture is insertable and removable from one of the plurality of nodes. The display apparatus also may include a first printed circuit board disposed within the display panel, where the first printed circuit board is in communication with at least one of: a power source and a data source, and where the display fixture is connected to the first printed circuit board when the display fixture is inserted in one of the plurality of nodes. The first printed circuit board may be configured to supply at least one of power and data to a product via the display fixture. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a display fixture. In some embodiments, the display fixture includes a plug with a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, a side surface, and an electrical connector extending from the bottom surface. The display fixture may also include a stem attached to the top surface of the plug, and a charging mechanism attached to the stem and in electrical communication with the electrical connector. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a method for accessing a display cavity of a display apparatus. In some embodiments, the method includes activating an actuator, extending a cord from the actuator in response to the activation, where the cord is coupled to a free end of a display panel, and where the display panel defines a bottom surface of a display cavity. The method may include rotating the display panel about an anchored end thereof by extension of the cord, where the anchored end is connected to a support structure of the display apparatus by a hinge. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a kit for aligning a plurality of nodes on a display panel. In some embodiments, the kit includes an alignment jig defining a plurality of jig receptacles, and a plurality of plug jigs each having a body and an alignment fitting attached to the body, the alignment fitting including a surface feature disposed on a surface thereof. Each jig receptacle may be configured to receive one of the plurality of plug jigs in a predetermined orientation with respect to the alignment jig such that the surface feature on each plug jig is oriented in the same direction relative to the alignment jig. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards DC-to-DC converters that may include a standard connector for receiving a DC input voltage and one or more standard connectors for providing a DC output voltage that can be different from the DC input voltage. As such, this configuration may provide a convenient means for even lay users to convert a DC input voltage to one or more different DC output voltages, all while using standard connectors. For example, a DC-to-DC converter according to some embodiments may include an Apple MagSafe® connector for receiving a DC input voltage and provide two different DC output voltages at two different Molex® (e.g., pin-and-socket) connectors, which can be used to provide power to electronic devices. This DC-to-DC converter can also include a compact, cosmetic, minimalist housing for containing a space-efficient printed circuit board (PCB) for converting a DC input voltage. In some embodiments such a converter may be used to provide power to the systems and/or elements described herein. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a DC-to-DC converter that may include a housing having first and second connector openings and a printed circuit board disposed within the housing. The printed circuit board may include a first standard connector for receiving a DC input voltage, the first standard connector positioned adjacent to the first standard connector opening, the first standard connector including contacts and an electromagnet that is energizable to magnetically attract a magnetic element of a corresponding standard connector. The printed circuit board may also include a second standard connector for providing a DC output voltage, the second standard connector positioned adjacent to the second standard connector opening, and voltage regulator circuitry configured to convert the DC input voltage to the DC output voltage. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards, a DC-to-DC converter that may include a housing and a printed circuit board disposed within the housing. The printed circuit board may include a first standard connector for receiving a DC input voltage, a second standard connector for providing a first DC output voltage, a third standard connector for providing a second DC output voltage, input circuitry disposed on a front side of the printed circuit board and coupled to the first standard connector, and first regulator circuitry coupled to the input circuitry and the second standard connector. The first regulator circuitry may be disposed on the front side, and may be configured to convert the DC input voltage to the first DC output voltage. The first regulator circuitry may include first inductors coupled to first capacitors, where the first inductors are coupled in series and first capacitors are coupled in parallel, and a first controller coupled to the first inductors and second capacitors disposed on a back side of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board may also include second regulator circuitry coupled to the first regulator circuitry and the third standard connector, the second regulator circuitry being disposed on the front side and configured to convert the first DC output voltage to the second DC output voltage. The second regulator circuitry may include second inductors coupled to third capacitors, where the second inductors are coupled in series and the third capacitors are coupled in parallel, and a second controller coupled to the second inductors and fourth capacitors disposed on the back side of the printed circuit board. 
     Some embodiments are directed towards a DC-to-DC converter that may include a housing having a volume that is less than 1,000 cubic centimeters and a printed circuit board disposed within the housing. The printed circuit board may include a first standard connector for receiving a DC input voltage, a second standard connector for providing a DC output voltage, and voltage regulator circuitry configured to convert the DC input voltage to the DC output voltage. 
    
    
     
       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 top perspective view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows a side view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  shows a side view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows a schematic representation of a display system according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  shows a top plan view of part of a table top according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 6  shows a cross-sectional side view of a table according to some embodiments, taken along line  6 - 6 ′ in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional side view of a table according to some embodiments, taken along line  7 - 7 ′ in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 8  shows a top plan view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the table shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 10  shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the table shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 11  shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of a glass panel according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 12  shows a schematic representation of a cooling system according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 13  shows a bottom perspective view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 14  shows a bottom perspective view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  shows a cross-sectional side view of a table according to some embodiments, taken along line  15 - 15 ′ in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 16  shows a cross-sectional side view of a table according to some embodiments, taken along line  6 - 6 ′ shown in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 17  shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the table shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 18  shows bottom view of a table according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 19  shows a top view of a display panel according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 20  shows a cross-sectional top view of a display panel according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 21  shows a cross-sectional side view of a display panel according to some embodiments, taken along line  21 - 21 ′ in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 22  shows a cross-sectional side view of a display panel and two display fixtures according to some embodiments, taken along line  21 - 21 ′ in  FIG. 19 . 
         FIG. 23  shows a top perspective view of a printed circuit board according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 24A  shows a top perspective view of a display fixture according to some embodiments.  FIG. 24B  shows an exploded view of a display fixture according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 25  shows a side view of a display fixture according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 26  shows a top perspective view of a display fixture according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 27  shows a display apparatus according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 28  shows a cross-sectional view of a display fixture according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 29  shows an alignment jig according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 30  shows a cross-sectional view of a wire for supplying power and/or data according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 31  shows an example of a traditional DC-to-DC converter. 
         FIG. 32  shows a perspective view of a DC-to-DC converter, according to an embodiment, and a MagSafe plug connector and Molex plug connectors lined up to mate with corresponding connectors of the DC-to-DC converter. 
         FIGS. 33A-33C  show perspective, front, and back views, respectively, of a DC-to-DC converter, according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 34A and 34B  show front and back views, respectively, of a printed circuit board of a DC-to-DC converter, according to an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     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. 
     References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
     A retailer or other user may have various locations within a store or other location for displaying electronic devices. The retailer may wish to provide display apparatuses, such as tables, at these locations to allow customers to view various electronic devices. In some cases, the display apparatus may provide power and/or data to the electronic devices. In some cases, the electronic devices may receive power via inductive charging of a battery disposed within an electronic device. In some cases, the display apparatus may provide a secure and aesthetically appealing display area for displaying the electronic devices. In some cases, the display area may be illuminated. In some cases, the temperature of the display area may be regulated. 
     An aesthetically appealing display apparatus can be an important tool for to attracting a consumer&#39;s attention and facilitating brand recognition (e.g., by focusing the consumer&#39;s attention on the products displayed therein, rather than the display apparatus itself). Moreover, it may be desirable for some features of a display apparatus, such as a power/data supply system or security features, to be concealed from view so as not to distract a consumer. The display apparatuses described herein may include a display cavity at least partially defined by a transparent glass panel. In some embodiments, the design of the transparent glass panel and a lighting system of the display apparatus may make it appear as if the glass panel is floating above the display cavity, thus creating an aesthetically appealing display cavity that focuses a consumer&#39;s attention on products displayed therein. 
     Additionally, a retailer or other user may desire a display apparatus that is modular in fashion such that components of the display apparatus can be easily exchanged and/or updated. In an increasingly fast-paced sales market (e.g., the market for electronic devices), new types and/or generations of products are often rapidly developed and released to the public. A display apparatus that is easily adaptable for use with new types or generations of products may reduce time and money a retailer spends on reconfiguring and/or replacing outdated equipment within his retail store. The display apparatuses described herein may include a modular system for providing power and/or data to electronic devices. The modular system may include releasably attached and interchangeable components for holding products while simultaneously providing data and/or power to the products and other elements of the display apparatus. 
     Moreover, a display apparatus may be capable of protecting displayed products to minimize potential theft. As such, the display apparatus may include security features designed to protect the products. The display apparatuses described herein may include a display panel that is rotatable from the bottom of a display apparatus, such as a table, that allows a user to access displayed products. This system provides a convenient way for a retailer to access the displayed products when he or she desires, while otherwise securely maintaining displayed products. Various security features described herein may inhibit unauthorized users from rotating the display panel and accessing displayed products. 
     Additionally, the number of types of electronic devices that are commercially available has increased tremendously the past few years, and the rate of introduction of these devices shows no signs of abating. Devices, such as tablets; laptops; netbooks; desktops; all-in-one computers; cell, smart, and media phones; storage devices, portable media players, navigation systems, monitors, and others, have become ubiquitous. 
     Many of these electronic devices require different voltages for operation, which voltages are typically supplied by different power adapters. This means that to operate multiple devices, multiple power adapters may be required. As such, users may need to concurrently use multiple power adapters in order to provide power to all the electronics devices that are being used by the user. 
     To avoid the inconvenience of having to use multiple power adapters, DC-to-DC converters can be used for converting the voltage from a single DC power source to the different voltage outputs required by different electronic devices. However, lay users of electronic devices typically do not operate DC-to-DC converters because of technical and safety challenges associated with these converters, e.g., connecting exposed electrical wires to the converter and adjusting the voltage provided by the converter. Consequently, DC-to-DC converters are typically only operated by electricians and others with electronics training. 
       FIG. 31  illustrates an example of a traditional DC-to-DC converter  10 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , converter  10  includes a bulky utilitarian housing  15  having screw terminals  20  disposed thereon. During operation, exposed input wires of a DC input voltage source are wrapped around screws (e.g., screw  25 ) of screw terminals  20 , thereby allowing converter  10  to receive a DC input voltage. Exposed output wires are wrapped around other screws of screw terminals  20  to route a DC output voltage from converter  10  to an electronic device. When switch  30  is switched to the “ON” position, circuitry internal to housing  15  converts the DC input voltage received via the input wires to a DC output voltage provided at the output wires. Converter  10  also includes knobs  35 ,  40  for adjusting the DC output voltage, thereby enabling a user to match the output DC voltage of converter  10  to the requirements of the electronic device connected to converter  10 . However, as may be appreciated, converter  10  may not be a practical alternative for lay users of electronic devices who want to avoid having to use multiple power adapters to provide the different voltages required by electronic devices. 
     Many other voltage conversion devices may suffer from some or all of these deficiencies or from similar deficiencies. 
     Some embodiments provide a DC-to-DC converter that can receive a DC input voltage via a standard receptacle connector, convert or step down the DC input voltage to one or more lower DC output voltages and provide the DC output voltages at standard receptacle connectors. For example, the DC-to-DC converter can receive 20 volts (V) at a MagSafe connector receptacle, convert the 20 V to 12 V and 5 V using regulator circuitry, and provide 12 V at a two-contact Molex connector and 5 V at a 3-contact Molex connector. The regulator circuitry can be configured to be included in DC-to-DC converter housing that is significantly smaller than traditional standalone DC-to-DC converter housings (e.g., 5 times smaller or even 10 times smaller). The MagSafe receptacle connector of the converter can be mated with a MagSafe plug connector of a MagSafe power adapter, and the Molex receptacle connectors of the converter can be mated with Molex plug connectors of Molex cable assemblies that are configured to provide power to electronic systems and devices, such as those described herein. This converter can be simple enough for lay users to utilize in retail and even consumer applications such as those as described herein. 
     As used herein, the term “electronic device” may refer to any device that uses electrical power to operate. In some instances, embodiments discussed herein are particularly well-suited for use with electronic media devices because their potentially small form factor may prevent them from including their own DC-to-DC conversion circuitry. Such devices may include, for example, portable music players (e.g., MP3 devices and Apple&#39;s iPod® devices), portable video players (e.g., portable DVD players), cellular telephones (e.g., smart telephones such as Apple&#39;s iPhone® devices), wearable devices such as smartwatches, video cameras, digital still cameras, projection systems (e.g., holographic projection systems), gaming systems, PDAs, desktop computers, as well as tablet (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPad® devices), laptop or other mobile computers. Other examples of electronic devices include docking stations, chargers, an external power source such as an external battery, cable adapters, clock radios, game controllers, audio equipment, headsets or earphones, video equipment and adapters, keyboards, medical sensor devices such as heart rate monitors and blood pressure monitors, point of sale (POS) terminals, retail display systems (including charging elements for charging displayed devices), cooling systems (including fans), lighting systems (including light sources, dimmers), as well as numerous other hardware devices that can connect to and exchange data with or receive power from a host device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. 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. 
     Embodiments of the present invention include a table  100  for displaying consumer products, such as electronic devices. In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ), table  100  may include a plurality of legs  102  and a table top  104 . Table top  104  may include a top wall  106  defining at least a portion of a top surface  108  of table top  104 , a bottom wall  112  defining at least a portion of a bottom surface  114  of table top  104 , and a side wall  110  extending downward from top wall  106  to bottom wall  112 . Side wall  110  may connect top wall  106  to bottom wall  112  and define a perimeter of table top  104 . Table top  104  may be a hollow structure having an internal cavity  140  defined by top wall  106 , side wall  110 , and bottom wall  112  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 6 ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , a glass panel  120  may define at least a portion of top surface  108  of table  100 . In other words, top wall  106  may be formed in part by glass panel  120 . In some embodiments, glass panel  120  may be inset into top wall  106  such that its top surface is coplanar with the rest of top surface  108 . In some embodiments, glass panel  120  and table top  104  may have the same shape (e.g., rectangular), however, glass panel  120  and table top  104  may have any shape. In some embodiments, glass panel  120  may have a different shape than table top  104 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , table  100  may include a power/data supply  130  attached to bottom surface  114  of table top  104 . A power/data cable  132  may be connected to power/data supply  130  and configured to supply power and/or data to table  100  and products displayed therein. The delivery of power and/or data to products displayed within table top  104  is described below in greater detail. 
       FIG. 4  shows a schematic representation of a display system  200  for displaying products  270  and supplying power and/or data to products  270  according to some embodiments. Display system  200  may include a display apparatus  202 . Display apparatus  202  may be, but is not limited to, a table (such as table  100 ), a wall, a display case, a shelf, or combinations thereof. Display system  200  may also include a master controller  204  configured to control various aspects of display system  200 . For example, master controller  204  may be configured to control a power/data supply system  230 , a cooling system  240 , a lighting system  250 , a security system  280 , and other electronic components of display system  200 . In some embodiments, a user may cause the supply of at least one of power and data to products  270  via master controller  204 . In some embodiments, a user may cause the supply of at least one of power and data to products  270  by connecting power/data supply  230  system to a source of data and/or power by, for example, connecting power/data supply system  230  to a power/data outlet or actuating a switch. 
     Display apparatus  202  may include a display panel (e.g. display panel  160  described below in more detail), configured to hold and display a plurality of products  270  within a display cavity (e.g., display cavity  141  described in more detail below). A transparent panel (e.g., glass panel  120 ) may cover and define at least a portion of display cavity  141  and may allow customers to view products  270  disposed within display cavity  141 . 
     In some embodiments, display apparatus  202  may be configured to house components of display system  200  (e.g., master controller  204 , cooling system  240 , lighting system  250 , and security system  280 ) such that they are concealed from view. To accomplish this, display apparatus  202  may include one or more internal compartments or chambers, such as compartments  312  and/or chambers  167  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 5 and 22 ), for housing components of display system  200 . In some embodiments, display apparatus  202  may house only some components of display system  200 . For example, master controller  204  may be remotely located from display apparatus  202 . In such embodiments, master controller  204  may in communication with other components of display system  200  via a communication network. The communication network may be a wireless or wired network. In some embodiments, master controller  204  may be in communication with multiple display apparatus via a communication network. In such embodiments, master controller  204  may be configured to control the components of each display apparatus  202  that it is connected to via the communication network. In some embodiments, the communication network may include a server for facilitating communication between master controller  204  and display apparatus(es)  202 . 
     In some embodiments, power/data supply system  230  is configured to supply at least one of power and data to one or more display apparatuses  202 . Power/data supply system  230  may be connected to a power/data supply, such as power/data supply  130 , that delivers power and/or data to display apparatuses  202 . In some embodiments, power/data supply system  230  includes at least one power distributor  232  configured to distribute power to at least one of: products  270 , cooling system  240 , lighting system  250 , and actuator  260 . In some embodiments, power distributors  232  may be configured to deliver different voltages to at least two of: products  270 , cooling system  240 , lighting system  250 , and actuator  260 . 
     Cooling system  240 , via a controller  241 , may be configured to maintain or modify the temperature within display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, cooling system  240  may include a plurality of fans  242  configured to circulate air within display cavity  141 . Controller  241  may be configured to maintain or modify the temperature in display cavity  141  by controlling at least one fan  242 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured to maintain or modify the temperature of display cavity  141  within a determined range. In some embodiments, the determined range may be 35 degrees C. to 45 degrees C. In some embodiments, the determined range may be 40 degrees C. to 45 degrees C. In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured to regulate the temperature within display cavity  141  so that the temperature within display cavity  141  does not exceed a predetermined value. In some embodiments, the predetermined value may be 45 degrees C. In some embodiments, controller  241  may be controlled by master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may be a sub-component of master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may operate independently of master controller  204 . 
     Cooling system  240  may include at least one temperature sensor  244  in communication with controller  241  and configured to measure the temperature within display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured to maintain or modify the temperature within display cavity  141  based on feedback (i.e., temperature values) received from temperature sensor(s)  244 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured to regulate the temperature within display cavity  141  so that the temperature within display cavity  141  stays within a predetermined range or does not exceed a predetermined value based on feedback received from temperature sensor(s)  244 . Temperature sensor(s)  244  may be, but are not limited to, thermocouples or thermistors. 
     Cooling system  240  may also include at least one audio sensor  246  in communication with controller  241 . Audio sensor(s)  246  may be configured to measure ambient noise from the environment surrounding display apparatus  202 . In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured to control at least one fan  242  based on feedback (e.g., decibel levels or some other indication of noise level) received from the audio sensor(s)  246 . 
     In some embodiments, controller  241  may be configured maintain or modify the temperature in the display cavity by at least one of: (1) turning at least one fan  242  on or off and (2) controlling the speed of at least one fan  242 . In some embodiments, audio sensor(s)  246  may disposed in or on display apparatus  202 . In some embodiments, audio sensor(s)  246  may be remotely located from display apparatus  202 ; for example, audio sensor(s)  246  may be located on the ceiling or wall of a retail store. 
     Cooling system  240  protects products  270  housed within display cavity  141  and the display cavity  141  itself from excessive heat. Products  270  may generate heat due to the operation of their internal electronics (e.g., processors and/or batteries). Additionally, external factors, such as sunlight or ambient temperature, may cause the temperature within display cavity  141  to rise. High temperatures within display cavity  141  may be harmful to products  270  and may result in glass panel  120  becoming undesirably warm. Cooling system  240  protects the temperature of products  270 , display cavity  141 , and glass panel  120  from increasing to an undesirable temperature.  FIG. 12  shows a detailed view of cooling system  240  according to some embodiments and the air flow created by cooling system  240 , and will be discussed in more detail below. 
     In some instances, a retailer may wish to control the amount of noise (i.e., decibel level) within his store. In display apparatus embodiments having fans  242  for controlling the temperature within display cavity  141 , fans  242  may produce a significant amount of noise when running at certain speeds, especially if multiple display apparatuses  202  are located within a single store. High noise levels may distract consumers and retail store employees or may make conversation difficult and may create a loud and unappealing store environment. Audio sensor(s)  246  coupled to controller  241  may detect the noise in a store and determine when the decibel level within the store exceeds a first predetermined value. Once the decibel level exceeds the first predetermined value, controller  241  may be configured to turn off one or more fans  242  and/or decrease the speed of one or more fans so as to decrease the decibel level within the store. When the decibel level within the store drops below a second predetermined value (less than the first predetermined value) controller  241  may be configured resume operation of the fans  242  and/or increase the speed of fans  242 . 
     On the other hand, a fan  242  may more effectively reduce the temperature within display cavity  141  by operating at high speed, but fan  242  may also produce more noise at high speed, which may not be desirable in a retail setting. Fan noise may be more perceptible in a low-noise environment than in a high-noise environment. In other words, ambient noise around display cavity  141  may be useful to mask fan noise. By measuring ambient noise around display cavity  141 , controller  241  can set fan speed (or a maximum fan speed) based on ambient noise, to ensure that, for a given ambient noise level, fan speed does not exceed a determined amount, where that determined amount is a function of ambient noise level. This can keep fans  242  operating at an optimum speed that does not produce an undesirably perceptible noise (which may distract a consumer). 
     Controller  241  may include software having algorithms configured to control fans  242  based feedback from both temperature sensor(s)  244  and audio sensor(s)  246 . In some embodiments, the software may be configured to prioritize temperature control over noise control. 
     Lighting system  250 , via a controller  251 , may be configured to illuminate at least a portion of display cavity  141  within display apparatus  202 . In some embodiments, lighting system  250  may be configured to illuminate the entire display cavity  141 . Lighting system  250  may include a light driver  252  and/or a dimmer  256  for controlling the intensity of a light source  254  disposed around the perimeter of display cavity  141 . Controller  251  may be configured to turn on and off light source  254  and regulate its intensity via light driver  252  and/or dimmer  256 . In some embodiments, controller  251  may be controlled by master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  251  may be a sub-component of master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  251  may operate independently of master controller  204 . A lighting system  250  according to some embodiments is described below in greater detail with respect to  FIGS. 8-10 . 
     Actuator  260  may be configured to move a display panel (e.g. display panel  160 ). In some embodiments, actuator  260  may be configured to rotate display panel  160  about an edge thereof. In some embodiments, actuator  260  may be an electronic actuator controlled by master controller  204 . In some embodiments, display system  200  may include a sub-controller for controlling actuator  260 . In some embodiments, actuator  260  may be manually actuated by a user. 
     Security system  280 , via controller  281 , may be configured to receive signals from security switches (e.g., security switch  421 ) and trigger an alarm so as to alert a user (e.g., store owner) of potential theft. Security system  280 , via controller  281 , may also receive and send signals to lock mechanisms  340  so as to control access to display cavity  141  and/or compartments  312 . In some embodiments, security system  280  may be configured to trigger an alarm in the event of unauthorized access to display cavity  141  and/or compartments  312  (e.g., opening display cavity  141  or compartment  312  may trigger a security switch). In some embodiments, controller  281  may be controlled by master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  281  may be a sub-component of master controller  204 . In some embodiments, controller  281  may operate independently of master controller  204 . 
     Master controller  204  and controllers  241 ,  251 , and  281  may be any suitable type of controller, such as, for example, controller chips or computing devices having a processor and a memory, such as ROM and/or RAM. Each controller may be configured to run software having algorithms configured to control the functionality of various components of table, such as cooling system  240  and lighting system  250  (e.g., using a processor). Each controller may also be configured to store the software configured to control the functionality of various component of table  100  (e.g., using a memory). In some embodiments, the controllers may include an interface, such an USB connection or wireless card, for receiving updated software. In some embodiments, master controller  204  and controllers  241 ,  251 , and  281  are separate controllers. In some embodiments, master controller  204  and controllers  241 ,  251 , and  281  are the same controller. 
     In some embodiments, the elements and systems described herein (e.g., table  100  and display system  200 ) may be used in conjunction with one or more of the elements and systems described in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 62/045,470, 62/045,474, and/or 62/045,457, all filed on Sep. 3, 2014 (e.g., the tables, other display apparatuses, and/or components thereof disclosed in these applications). Each of these applications is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
       FIG. 5  shows an electrical system  300  for table  100  according to some embodiments. Components of electrical system  300  may be disposed on or within table top  104 . In some embodiments, each component of power system  300  may be disposed within table top  104  such that it is concealed within a cavity or compartment located within table top  104  or display panel  160 . Concealing all the components of electrical system  300  within table top  104  creates an aesthetically appealing table that does not draw consumers&#39; attention away from products displayed within the table top  104 . Table  100  may include at least one peripheral cavity  310  disposed around the perimeter of table top  104 . In some embodiments, peripheral cavity(ies)  310  may surround at least a portion of display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, peripheral cavity(ies)  310  may completely surround display cavity  141  along at least two opposing sides. 
     Peripheral cavity  310  may include a number of compartments  312  for storing various components of electrical system  300 . While certain electronic components are shown being stored in compartments  312  in  FIG. 5 , compartments  312  may be used to store any component within table top  104 . Each compartment  312  may include a door  314  attached to table top  104  via a hinge  316  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 9 ). Doors  314  and hinges  316  may allow access to compartments  312  from underneath table top  104 . In some embodiments, doors  314  may include a lock mechanism to prevent unauthorized users from accessing compartments  312 .  FIG. 5  shows a table top  104  having ten compartments  312  disposed along the length of table top  104 , five on each side thereof, but table top  104  may include any number of compartments  312  located on any side of table top  104 . 
       FIG. 5  shows a number of power adaptors  320  housed in various compartments  312  located in table top  104  and electrically connected to power/data supply  130 . Power adaptors  320  may each be electrically connected to a power distributor  322  for distributing power and/or data to various components of electrical system  300 . Power distributors  322  may provide power to every electronic component housed within table top  104 , including but not limited to fans  242 , printed circuit boards  330 , light driver  252 , light dimmer  256 , temperature sensors  244 , audio sensors  246 , and actuator  260 . Power distributors  322  may provide power to these components via a number of power cords  324 . 
     In some embodiments, power adaptors  320  may provide 20 volts of power to power distributors  322 . In turn, power distributors  322  may distribute the 20 volts to various components of electrical system  300 . For example, a power distributor  322  may be configured to provide 12 volts a fan  242 . Power distributors  322  may also provide power to a number of printed circuit boards  330 , which in turn provide power to products  270  displayed within display cavity  141 . For example, power distributor  322  may be configured to provide five volts of power to one or more printed circuit boards  330 . Power distributor may be or have the characteristics of power distributors such as the power converters (including DC-to-DC power converters  1200 ,  1300 ) discussed below in reference to  FIGS. 32-34B . 
       FIG. 6  shows a cross-section of table  100  taken along line  6 - 6 ′ of  FIG. 3  (i.e., along the width of table  100 ).  FIG. 6  shows cavity  140  formed by top wall  106 , glass panel  120 , side wall  110 , and bottom wall  112  (including back surface  164  of display panel  610 ). Cavity  140  may include display cavity  141  formed near and overlapping a center  116  of table top  104  (see  FIG. 8 ). Display cavity  141  may be recessed from top surface  108  such that it defines space within table top  104  for displaying products. In some embodiments, the center of display cavity  141  may be located at center  116 . Display cavity  141  may be disposed adjacent to and between portions of peripheral cavity  310  (including compartments  312 ). As shown in  FIG. 6 , a portion of peripheral cavity  310  adjacent to side wall  110  may include a support structure  111  for providing structural integrity to table top  104 . Support structure  111  may include one or more support beams made of, for example, wood, plastic, or metal. 
       FIG. 6  also shows actuator  260  housed within one compartment  312  on the right of display cavity  141 . On the left side of display cavity  141 , a compartment  312  houses light driver  252  and light dimmer  256  for controlling light source  254  for illuminating at least a portion of display cavity  141 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , top wall  106  may define at least a portion of top surface  108 , and side wall  110  may extend downward from top wall  106  to define a perimeter of cavity  140 . Glass panel  120  may define the remainder of top surface  108  and define at least a portion of the top of display cavity  141 . Bottom wall  112  may define at least a portion of bottom surface  114 , and a back surface  164  of display panel  160  may define the remainder of bottom surface  114 . In other words, bottom wall  112  may be formed in part by display panel  160 . Power/data supply  130  may be attached to back surface  164  of display panel  160 . A product surface  162  of display panel  160  may define at least a portion of a bottom of display cavity  141 . Product surface  162  may hold a plurality of display fixtures (e.g., display fixtures  400 , see  FIGS. 22 and 24A ) for displaying a plurality of products (e.g., products  270 ) within display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, display panel  160  is moveable. In some embodiments, display panel  160  is rotatable about an anchored edge  168  thereof. In some embodiments, display cavity  141  may have a height  145  ranging from 2 inches to 4 inches. In some embodiments, height  145  is 3 inches. 
       FIG. 7  shows a cross-section along the length of table  100  (i.e., a cross-section perpendicular to the cross-section shown in  FIG. 6 ). As shown in  FIG. 7 , display cavity  141  and glass panel  120  may extend along a substantial length of table top  104  between opposing legs  102 . In some embodiments, display cavity  141  may extend along the entire length of table  100  between opposing legs  102 . 
       FIG. 8  shows a top view of table  100  showing a portion of lighting system  250  according to some embodiments. For ease of depiction, certain elements of lighting system  250  that are disposed within table  100  are shown in  FIG. 8  in phantom lines, even though they would not be visible from this view in actual use. As shown in  FIG. 8 , table top  104  and glass panel  120  may both have a rectangular shape with glass panel  120  being smaller, in both length and width, than table top  104 . As a non-limiting example, if the length of table top  104  is 7 feet, 6 inches, glass panel may have a length of approximately 6 feet, 9 inches and a width of approximately 2 feet. As another non-limiting example, if the length of table top  104  is 12 feet, 6 inches, glass panel  120  may have a length of approximately 11 feet, 9 inches and a width of approximately 2 feet. In some embodiments, the length of glass panel  120  may be greater than 75% of the length of table top  104 . In some embodiments, the length of glass panel  120  may be approximately 90% of the length of table top  104 . In some embodiments, the width of glass panel  120  may be greater than 30% of the width of table top  104 . In some embodiments, the width of glass panel  120  may be less than 70% of the width of table top  104  (e.g., to leave some working surface that is not covering display cavity  141 ). 
     Table top  104  may include a light source  254  disposed below top wall  106  and around at least a portion of the perimeter of display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, light source  254  may extend around the entire perimeter of display cavity  141 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . Light source  254  may include a single lighting device that wraps around the perimeter of display cavity  141 . Alternatively, light source  254  may include a plurality of lighting devices disposed around the perimeter of display cavity  141  (e.g., one or more along each side). A lighting device may be, but is not limited to, an inorganic LED (light emitting device), an OLED (organic light emitting device), an incandescent lighting device, or a florescent lighting device. 
     A lens  258  may be disposed below top wall  106  and around at least a portion of the perimeter of display cavity  141  between light source  254  and display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, lens  258  may extend around the entire perimeter of display cavity  141 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . Lens  258  may be configured to diffuse light emitted from light source  254  and direct it into display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, lens  258  may be a single lens extending around the entire perimeter of display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, lens  258  may include a plurality of lens segments abutted or connected together that together extend around the entire perimeter of display cavity  141  (e.g., one or more along each side). For example, lens  258  may include four lens segments, two longer sections disposed adjacent to the long sides of display cavity  141  and two shorter sections disposed adjacent to the short sides of display cavity  141 . The four segments may be connected at or near the corners of display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, the ends of the lens segments may include chamfered edges so as to facilitate the connections between the lens segments (e.g., by providing greater surface area for connection). Any number of lens segments may be used to form lens  258 . In some embodiments, lens  258  is an acrylic lens. In some embodiments, lens  258  has a thickness of ¼ of an inch, the thickness measured in the direction from light source  254  to display cavity  141 . 
     In some embodiments, lens  258  serves to evenly distribute light from light source  254  into display cavity  141 . The position of light source  254  and lens  258  creates an even and uniform emanation of light from underneath top wall  106  into display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, the position of light source  254  and lens  258  causes glass panel  120  to appear as if is floating above display cavity  141  (e.g., by directing light into display cavity  141  and minimizing directing light directly up through glass panel  120  from lens  258 ). This may create an aesthetically appealing table  100  that focuses a consumer&#39;s attention on display cavity  141  and the products displayed therein. By diffusing light into display cavity  141 , lens  258  may also increase the efficiency of lighting system  250  by optimizing the distribution of light from light source  254 . 
       FIG. 9  shows an enlarged cross-section of area  9  of  FIG. 6  showing details of a compartment  312  for housing lighting components. The compartment  312  shown in  FIG. 9  may be accessed via door  314  located adjacent to bottom wall  112  of table top  104 . Hinge  316 , which allows door  314  to be opened and closed, may fixed to support structure  111  within table top  104 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , light driver  252  and dimmer  256  may be housed within compartment  312 . In some embodiments, light driver  252  and/or dimmer  256  may be fixed to the bottom of top wall  106 . Both light driver  252  and dimmer  256  may be electrically connected to light source  254  disposed within compartment  312 . In some embodiments, light source  254  may be disposed within compartment  312  underneath top wall  106  adjacent to a display cavity side wall  142 . 
     Display cavity side wall  142  may separate compartment  312  from display cavity  141 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , lens  258  may form part of display cavity side wall  142  such that surfaces of lens  258  and side wall  142  facing display cavity  141  are aligned. In such embodiments, lens  258  and display side wall  142  may include a first angled edge  143  and a second angled edge  259 , respectively, to facilitate attachment of display side wall  142  and lens  258  (e.g., by providing greater surface area for connection, such as, for example, by adhesive). Lens  258  may be disposed underneath a ledge  150  that is attached to the bottom of top wall  106 . In some embodiments, lens  258  may be in direct contact with the underside  151  ledge  150 . In some embodiments, the underside  151  of ledge  150  may be coated with a non-reflective material. Coating underside  151  of ledge  150  with a non-reflective material may facilitate an even and uniform emanation of light into display cavity  141 , while blocking direct transmission of light from lens  258  through glass panel  120  to contribute to the floating effect of glass panel  120  as described above. The non-reflective material may be, but is not limited to, black paint. 
     Ledge  150  may extend within display cavity  141  about a periphery of the display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, ledge  150  may extend into display cavity  141  by a length  154  (see  FIG. 11 ). In some embodiments, length  154  may be measured perpendicularly from a vertical wall  107  of top wall  106  (e.g., towards the center of display cavity  141  (i.e., center  116  of table top  104 )). In some embodiments, length  154  may range from 8 millimeters to 11 millimeters. In some embodiments, length  154  may be 9.4 mm (approximately ⅜ of an inch). 
     In some embodiments, display cavity side wall  144  may include a gap  144  (see e.g.,  FIG. 17 ) for allowing air from fans  242  to flow into and out of display cavity  144 . In some embodiments, gap  144  may be a continuous gap formed along a portion of display cavity side wall  144 . In some embodiments, display cavity side wall  144  may include a plurality of discrete gaps  144  located in positions corresponding to the locations of fans  242 . In some embodiments, gaps  144  may be formed at or adjacent to the bottom of display cavity side wall  144 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , gap(s)  144  may also be formed in part of support structure  111 . In some embodiments, gap(s)  144  may be 5 mm in height. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , a panel hinge  170  may be connected to anchored end  168  of display panel  160 . In some embodiments panel hinge  170  may be fixed to table top  104  via support structure  111 . In some embodiments panel hinge  170  may encompass a plurality of discrete hinges spaced apart along anchored end  168  of display panel  160 . In some embodiments panel hinge  170  may be a continuous hinge extending along the length of anchored end  168  of display panel  160  (e.g., a piano hinge). Display panel  160  may rotate about panel hinge  170  and, in some embodiments, compartment  312  may provide space to allow anchored end  168  of display panel  160  to freely rotate about panel hinge  170 . Anchored end  168  of display panel  160  may also include a seal member  172 . Seal member may seal with an internal component of table top  104 , such as support structure  111 . In some embodiments, seal member  172  may be disposed on product surface  162  near the perimeter of display panel  160  so as to at least partially seal the bottom of display cavity  141 . Seal member  172 , in conjunction with a gasket  152  on ledge  150  may serve to at least partially seal display cavity  141  from the environment surrounding table  100 . Gasket  152  may be disposed on a top side  153  of ledge  150  and in contact with glass panel  120 . In some embodiments gasket  152  may include adhesive on both its upper and lower surfaces, to fix glass panel  120  to ledge  150 . In some embodiments, gasket  152  may wrap around the entire perimeter of display cavity  141  so as to completely seal the top of display cavity  141 . At least partially sealing the top and/or bottom of display cavity  141  may facilitate efficient operation of cooling system  240 . But, display cavity  141  may remain unsealed in some locations, e.g., at gaps  144  and in other portions of table top  104  so as to allow air to flow into and out of display cavity  141  and allow for air exchange with the environment outside table  100 . 
       FIG. 10  shows an enlarged cross-section of area  10  of  FIG. 7  showing the details of a portion of peripheral cavity  310  disposed adjacent to display cavity  141 .  FIG. 10  shows light source  254 , lens  258 , and ledge  150  disposed around the perimeter of display cavity  141 .  FIG. 10  also shows side edge  175  of display panel  160 , which may be perpendicular to free end  166  and anchored end  168 . Side edge  175  may engage the bottom of display cavity side wall  142  and may have seal member  172  disposed thereon. 
       FIG. 11  shows an enlarged view of glass panel  120  according to some embodiments. Glass panel  120  may include a top glass layer  122  defining a glass top surface  121  and a bottom glass layer  128  defining a glass bottom surface  129 . Glass top surface  121  may form a portion of top surface  108  of table top  104  and glass bottom surface  129  may define at least a portion of the top of display cavity  141 . A glass panel side wall  125  may be disposed adjacent to vertical wall  107  of top wall  106 . In some embodiments, glass panel side wall  125  may be disposed less than or equal to 1 millimeter (e.g., approximately 1/32 of an inch) from vertical wall  107 . In some embodiments, glass panel side wall  125  may be in direct contact with vertical wall  107 . Glass top surface  121  may be flush with the top of top wall  106 , meaning that glass top wall  121  is parallel to and coplanar with the top of top wall  106  at their interface(s) (e.g., aligned within a tolerance of +/−3 millimeters (approximately ⅛ of an inch). In some embodiments, glass top surface  121  may be located above or below the top of table top wall  106 . For example, glass top surface  121  may be located 0.5 mm below the top of top wall  106 . In some embodiments, top glass layer  122  may include a chamfered edge  123  located along the perimeter of top glass layer  122 . In some embodiments, top glass layer  122  and/or bottom glass layer  128  may be tempered glass. 
     Glass panel  120  may also include an ink film  124  disposed between top glass wall  122  and bottom glass wall  128 . In some embodiments, glass panel  120  may include an intermediate adhesive layer  126  disposed between top glass wall  122  and bottom glass wall  128 . Intermediate layer  126  may be disposed between ink film  124  and bottom glass wall  128 , as shown in  FIG. 11 . Alternatively, intermediate layer  126  may be disposed between ink film  124  and top glass wall  122 . 
     In some embodiments, the thickness of glass panel  120  may range from 7 millimeters to 8 millimeters +/−0.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness of glass panel may be 7.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness of top glass layer  122  may range from 2.0 millimeters to 2.2 millimeters. In some embodiments the thickness of top glass layer  122  is 2.1 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness of ink film  124  is less than 25% the thickness of glass panel  120 , or less than 10% the thickness of glass panel  120  (e.g., less than 1 millimeter). In some embodiments, the thickness of intermediate layer  126  may range from 0.8 millimeters to 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, the thickness of intermediate layer  126  is 0.9 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness of bottom glass layer  128  may range from 3.8 millimeters to 4.2 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness of bottom glass layer is 4 millimeters. 
     Ink film  124  may be screen printed onto either top glass layer  122 , as shown in  FIG. 11 , or onto bottom glass layer  128 . In some embodiments, ink film  124  may be disposed along the perimeter of glass panel  120  and may extend from glass side wall  125  towards the center of glass panel  120  (i.e., center  116  of table  100 ). Ink film  124  may be in the shape of a strip disposed about the perimeter of glass panel  120 . In other words, ink film  124  may have a hollow shape, that hollow shape corresponding to the shape of display panel  120 . In some embodiments, ink film  124  may extend a distance  127  from glass side wall  125  towards the center of glass panel  120 . In some embodiments, distance  127  may range from 16 millimeters to 20 millimeters. In some embodiments, distance  127  may be 18 millimeters. In some embodiments, distance  127  is greater than length  145  (and therefore hides ledge  150  from view). In some embodiments, distance  127  may be more than 150% of length  145 , but less than 250% of length  145 . For example, if length  145  is 9.4 millimeters (approximately ⅜ of an inch), distance  127  may be 18 millimeters. In some embodiments, ink film  124  may have a constant distance  127  around the perimeter of glass panel  120 . In some embodiments distance  127  may vary. For example, distance  127  may be larger along the length of glass panel  120  than along the width of glass panel  120 . In some embodiments, distance  127  may be dependent on the length and width of glass panel  120 . But in some embodiments, distance  127  is always greater than length  145  at all positions along the length and width of glass panel  120 . 
     Ink film  124  creates a sharp and consistent boarder around display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, ink film  124  serves to conceal ledge  150  and gasket  152  from a consumer&#39;s view, and to conceal lens(es)  258 . This can contribute to an aesthetically appealing display area that focuses a consumer&#39;s attention on the products displayed within display cavity  141 , rather than features of table  100 . Ink film  124  may also facilitate even and uniform emanation of light from underneath top wall  106  and help make glass panel  120  appear as if it is floating above display cavity  141 . 
       FIG. 12  shows a schematic representation of the air flow within display cavity  141  created by fans  242  of cooling system  240  according to some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 12 , table  100  may include four fans  242 , two located on one side of table  100  (e.g., for pushing air into display cavity  141 ) and two located at the opposing side of table  100  (e.g., for pulling air out of display cavity  141 ). Each fan  242  may be housed in a compartment  312 , which are located around the periphery of display cavity  141 . Display cavity side wall  142  may have gaps  144  formed therein extending along the perimeter of display cavity  141  and/or disposed discretely at locations corresponding to each fan  242  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 10 and 17 ). Air may flow into or out of display cavity  141  through gaps  144 . In some embodiments, push fans  242  may draw air from the environment located around table  100  and push it into cavity  141 , and pull fans  242  may pull air from cavity  141  and expel it into the environment located around table  100 . 
     In some embodiments, fans  242  may be connected with tubing  248  so as to create a closed-air circulation loop. In such embodiments, fans  242  may recirculate air into and out of display cavity  141  in a closed loop. In some embodiments, the air circulated within display cavity  141  may be cooled, for example by a refrigeration mechanism  249 , before being introduced into display cavity  141 . Refrigeration mechanism  249  may be connected to fans  242  and/or tubing  248  and may be controlled by controller  241  to maintain a desired temperature. In some embodiments, the push fans  242  may include or may be in communication with an air filter (e.g., a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter) to minimize the introduction of dust or other contaminates into display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, tubing  248  may include an air filter. Compartments  312  may provide access to the HEPA filters such that they can be replaced without disassembling table  100 . 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  show bottom perspective views of table  100  and demonstrate the rotation of display panel  160  about anchored end  168 .  FIGS. 15 and 16  show corresponding cross-sectional views demonstrating the rotation of display panel  160 . In a first, closed position, as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 15 , back surface  164  of display panel  160  may be flush with bottom surface  114  of bottom wall  112 . Similarly, product surface  162  may be parallel to glass panel  120  in the first closed position. 
     In a second, open position, as shown in  FIGS. 14 and 16 , display panel  160  is rotated about its anchored end  168  such that it extends at least partially downward from the bottom of table  100 . In the open position back surface  164  is oriented at an angle  171  relative to bottom surface  114  of bottom wall  112 . Similarly, product surface  162  is oriented at angle  171  relative to glass panel  120 . In some embodiments angle  171  may be greater than 45 degrees (e.g., maximum angle  171  may be greater than 45 degrees). In some embodiments angle  171  may be 80 degrees (e.g., maximum angle  171  may be 80 degrees). In some embodiments angle  171  may be less than 90 degrees (e.g., maximum angle  171  may be less than 90 degrees). A maximum angle  171  of less than 90 degrees may help to prevent display fixtures (e.g., display fixtures  400 , see  FIGS. 11 and 24A ) and displayed products  270  from falling out of recesses in display panel  160  when in the open position. Rotating display panel  160  to the open position allows a user, such as a retail store employee, to access products  270  displayed on product surface  162 . In some embodiments, table  100  may include a mechanical and/or electrical stop configured to cause display panel  160  to stop rotating once it reaches the second open position (i.e., when angle  171  reaches a maximum). 
     Rotating display panel  160  from the bottom of table  100  helps conceal mechanical components, such as hinges, that are used to rotate display panel  160 . Additionally, by rotating display panel  160  from the bottom of table  100 , a user can access products displayed on product surface  162  without having to remove glass panel  120  from the top of table  100 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16 , actuator  260  may be used to move display panel  160  from the closed position to the open position. Actuator  260  may be an electronic automated device such as, but not limited to, an electronic motor. In some embodiments, actuator  260  may be manually actuated by a user (e.g., a crank-operated winch). A cord  262  may be attached to actuator  260  and an attachment feature  264 , such as, for example, a hook or eye-bolt, attached to free end  166  of display panel  160 . Cord  262  may be extended from and retracted into actuator  260  to lower and raise free end  166 , which in turn causes display panel  160  to rotate about anchored end  168  via panel hinge  170 . In other words, actuator  260  may rotate display panel  160  by adjusting the length of cord  262 . In some embodiments, table  100  may include multiple actuator assemblies (including actuator  260 , cord  262 , and attachment feature  264 ). In such embodiments, actuator assemblies may be evenly spaced along free end  166  of display panel  160  to evenly distribute the weight of display panel  160 . In such embodiments, the multiple actuator assemblies may be independently operable or may all be simultaneously operated by the same control mechanism  266  (described below). 
     As shown in  FIG. 16 , compartments  312  located on opposite sides of display cavity may house actuator  260  and provide space for anchored end  168  to freely rotate. A door  314  associated with each compartment  312  may be opened as shown in  FIG. 16  to allow access to the compartments  312 . Since anchored end  168  of display panel may extend along the entire length of display panel  160 , each compartment  312  located near anchored end  168  may be opened to allow display panel to move to the open position. In some embodiments, display panel  160  may be configured to rotate about panel hinge  170  such that anchored end  168  does not require the space within compartment(s)  312  to freely rotate. In addition to rotating display panel  160  between the closed position and the fully open position, actuator  260  may be used to rotate display panel  160  to any position in between these positions, (e.g., to a partially-open position). In some embodiments, table  100  may not include an actuator  260 , and display panel  160  may be manually lowered and raised from the bottom of table  100  by a user. 
     In some embodiments, actuator  260  may be operated by a controller (e.g., master controller  204  or a separate dedicated controller) that receives a signal from a control mechanism  266 . The signal may cause the actuator to extend or retract cord  262  to thereby open or close display panel  160 . Control mechanism may be, for example, a keyed hole for receiving a key, a button, a mechanical switch, and/or a sensor. 
     Types of sensors that may be used in accordance with the embodiments described herein include, but are not limited to, fingerprint sensors, radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensors, motion sensors, capacitive touch sensors, and bar code (including quick response (QR) code) scanners. A motion sensor may send a signal in response to sensing the motion of an object, such as a hand. A capacitive touch sensor may send a signal in response to sensing a touch, for example, the touch of a finger. An RFID sensor may send a signal upon sensing identification information on an employee&#39;s or technical assistant&#39;s RFID card. A bar code scanner may send a signal upon reading a bar code associated with, for example, an employee or technical assistant. 
     Sensors such as fingerprint sensors, RFID sensors, or bar code readers may provide increased security within a retailer&#39;s store. Such sensors would prevent display panel  160  from being deployed and accessed by an unauthorized person, thereby minimizing opportunity for theft of products  270  in display cavity  141 . In some embodiments, the sensor may be located on table  100 . In some embodiments, the sensor may not be located on table  100 . For example, the sensor may be located on a wall or chair near table  100 , or other remote locations. 
       FIG. 17  shows an enlarged cross-section of area  17  of  FIG. 15  showing details of a lock mechanism  340  for preventing the movement of display panel  160 . Lock mechanism  340  may be attached to free end  166  of display panel  160  and configured to fit within a compartment  312  located in peripheral cavity  310  of table top  104 . Lock mechanism  340  may include a lock actuator  342  that may be accessible from underneath table  100 . In some embodiments, lock actuator  342  may be disposed on bottom surface  114  of table top  104 , and may be configured to rotate a latch  344  into and out of a locking recess  346  formed in a portion of support structure  111  within table top  104 . Lock actuator  342  may be controlled by, for example, a keyed hole for receiving a key, a button, a mechanical switch, and/or a sensor. Such a sensor may be, for example, any of the sensors described above with respect to control mechanism  266 . 
     Lock actuator  342  may be configured to rotate a latch  344  into and out of locking recess  346  formed in a portion of support structure  111  within table top  104 . When latch  344  engages locking recess  346 , as shown in  FIG. 17 , free end  166  of display panel is prevented from moving. When latch  344  is disengaged from locking recess  346  free end  166  may be lowered either manually or via actuator  260 . Also, when latch  344  is engaged, it helps support display panel  160  in the closed position, sharing the load of display panel  160  with cord  262 . Table  100  may include multiple lock mechanisms  340 . In such embodiments, lock mechanisms  340  may be evenly spaced along free end  166  of display panel  160  to evenly distribute the weight of display panel  160 . 
     In some embodiments, lock actuator  342  may be in communication with a controller, such as master controller  204 , and may be controlled by the controller. Locking mechanism  340  may help control authorized access to display cavity  141  because only authorized users having the correct key, RFID badge, etc. may access display cavity  141 . In embodiments wherein lock actuator  342  is for example, a fingerprint reader or an RFID sensor, and/or in embodiments where lock actuator is in communication with a controller, such as master controller  204 , access to a display cavity  141  may be strictly and automatically controlled by a user. In some embodiments, master controller  204  may accept a password from a user to lock or unlock lock mechanism  340 . 
     In some embodiments, lock mechanism  340  may be locked or unlocked and/or display panel  160  may be rotated between the closed and open positions in response to a first signal and a second signal from a sensor, where the sensor is a barcode (including quick response (QR) code) or radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner, or any other sensor such as, for example, other sensors described herein. For example, the scanner may be configured to read bar codes or RFID chips associated with persons or devices, e.g., store employees such as salespeople and technical support personnel. Additionally, the scanner may be configured to send first and second signals in response to scanning a barcode or RFID chip associated with authorized personnel. In response to the first signal, a controller, such as master controller  204 , may cause actuator  260  to rotate display panel  160  from the closed position to the open position. In response to receiving the second signal, master controller  204  may rotate display panel  160  back to the closed position. Lock mechanism  340  may be locked or unlocked and/or display panel  160  may be rotated in a similar fashion for other types of lock actuators such as, but not limited to, a button, a mechanical switch, a fingerprint sensor, a motion sensor, and a capacitive touch sensor. 
     While a lock mechanism  340  according to some embodiments is shown and described in reference to  FIGS. 15 and 17 , any type of lock mechanism may be used. For example, different mechanical lock mechanisms or magnetic lock mechanisms may be used to prevent the movement of display panel  160  from the closed position to the open position. The configuration of the compartment  312  configured to house locking mechanism  340  may prevent unwanted tempering with lock mechanism  340 . 
       FIG. 18  shows a bottom view of table  100  according to some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 18 , each door  314  may include a finger hole  318  for allowing a user to open door  314  and access a corresponding compartment  312 . Finger holes  318  may also allow heat from electronics housed within compartments to more easily escape, thus helping to prevent overheating. Finger holes  318  may also allow air intake and exhaust for cooling system  240  (e.g., for fans  242 ). In some embodiments, finger holes  318  may be replaced with a lock mechanism. In some embodiments, doors  314  may include finger hole  318  and a lock mechanism. In some embodiments, the lock mechanisms on doors may include a lock actuator that is the same or similar to lock actuator  342 . In some embodiments, the lock actuators on doors  314  may also be in communication with master controller  204 , and may be controlled by master controller  204 . 
     While  FIGS. 6-18  show table  100  having a single display panel  160  that rotates from the bottom of table  100 , in some embodiments, table  100  may include multiple smaller display panels disposed adjacent to or spaced apart from each other so as to form a continuous or non-continuous product surface  162 . In such embodiments, each display panel back surface  164  may form a portion of bottom surface  114  of table top  104 . Additionally, in such embodiments, each display panel may have an independent panel hinge and/or actuator configured to rotate each display panel about an anchored end. As such, each display panel may be independently rotated between the closed position and the open position. 
       FIG. 19  shows product surface  162  of display panel  160  according to some embodiments. Product surface  162  may be a flat and smooth surface having a plurality of apertures  176  formed therein, each aperture  176  configured to receive a node  350 . In some embodiments apertures  176  are circular in shape and nodes  350  have a corresponding circular outer shape. Each node  350  received in apertures  176  may be configured to hold a display fixture, such as display fixture  400 , as discussed in more detail below with reference to  FIGS. 21 and 22 . Product surface  162  may include any number of nodes  350 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 19 , nodes  350  may be aligned in rows (e.g., two rows extending along the length of display panel  160 ). 
       FIG. 20  shows a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of display panel  160  according to some embodiments. Display panel  160  may be a hollow structure having a network of chambers  167  formed therein for housing electronic components. As shown in  FIG. 20 , the network of chambers  167  may be used to house a plurality of printed circuit boards  330  connected to a plurality of power cords  324 . Support beams  169  may separate individual chambers  167  and provide structural integrity for display panel  160 . In some embodiments, at least a portion of chambers  167  may be occupied by material for increasing the strength and robustness of display panel  160 . In some embodiments, a plurality of honeycomb panels may occupy at least a portion of chambers  167 . In some embodiments, the honeycomb panel is made of aluminum, and may have top and bottom layers of sheet metal (e.g., aluminum) enclosing the honeycomb structure. 
     Passages  174  may be formed in support beams  169  so that power cords  324  can be routed therethrough between chambers  167  to anchored end  168 . Power cords  324  are routed towards and exit display panel via anchored end  168  so that they remain concealed and need not be disconnected when display panel is rotated into the open position. Also, routing power cords  324  towards anchored end  168  reduces the length of power cords  324  and prevents them from interfering with a user trying to access products when display panel  160  is in the open position. Moreover, routing power cords to anchored end  168  removes the need to unplug any power cord when display panel is rotated from the bottom of table  100  to the open position. This allows each system, e.g., power/data supply system  230  and cooling system  240 , associated with table  100  to continue to function when display panel  160  is rotated to the open position. 
       FIGS. 21 and 22  show cross-sections of display panel  160  along the line  21 - 21 ′ in  FIG. 19 .  FIG. 21  shows two empty nodes  350  and  FIG. 22  shows those same two nodes  350  with display fixtures  400  received therein.  FIGS. 21 and 22  also show a portion of a chamber  167  formed within display panel  160 . Chamber  167  may be defined by a first (e.g., top) wall  161 , a perimeter wall  163 , and a second (e.g., bottom) wall  165 . First wall  161  may define product surface  162  and second wall  165  may define back surface  164 . First wall  161 , perimeter wall  163 , and second wall  165  may be made from any suitable material, such as but not limited to, wood, plastic, or metal, such as aluminum. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , apertures  176  are formed on product surface  162  and extend through first wall  161  to chamber  167 . Each aperture  176  may be configured to releasably or permanently receive at least a portion of node  350 . Each node  350  may include a flange  352 , a base  364  defining a through hole  366  therethrough, and a hollow frame  354  connecting flange  352  to base  364 . Hollow frame  354  may include an exterior surface  362  that conforms with the shape of aperture  176 . Flange  352  may be used to support node  350  on product surface  162 . In some embodiments, product surface  162  may include circumferential grooves  178  disposed around apertures  176  for receiving flanges  352 , so that nodes  350  do not extend above product surface  162  (and in some embodiments a top surface of flange  352  is flush with product surface  162 ). In some embodiments, node  350  does not include flange  352  and is supported within aperture  176  via a friction fit between aperture  176  and exterior surface  362  of hollow frame  354 . In some embodiments, exterior surface  362  may be adhesively bonded to aperture  176 . 
     Hollow frame  354  may also include an interior surface  360  that, in connection with a proximal surface  368  of base  364 , defines a hollow interior  358 . In some embodiments, interior surface  360  may include a first alignment feature  361  configured to engage and mate with a second alignment feature  409  on display fixture  400 . First alignment feature  361  may include, but is not limited to a notch, a projection (as shown in  FIG. 21 ), or a groove. First alignment feature  361  may also be used to orient each node in the same direction relative to product surface  162  (e.g., using an alignment jig  800  as discussed below in reference to  FIG. 29 ). 
     At least one first magnet  372  may be coupled to base  364  and may be configured to interact with at least one second magnet  432  coupled to a plug  402  on display fixture  400 . In some embodiments, first magnet(s)  372  may be disposed within base  364 , as shown in  FIG. 22 , or attached to an upper or lower surface thereof. 
     In some embodiments, a printed circuit board  330  may be attached to node each  350  via a lower surface  370  of base  364 . In some embodiments, a printed circuit board  330  is attached to base  364  via connectors  338  (e.g., screws  338 ). Screws  338  may align printed circuit board  330  with respect to node  350 . Specifically, screws  338  may align electrical contacts  332  on printed circuit board  330  with through holes  366  formed in bases  364  of nodes  350 . This alignment helps to ensure contact between electrical connectors  434  disposed on plugs  402  and electrical contacts  332  of printed circuit boards  330 . In some embodiments, the attachment of a printed circuit board  330  to one or more nodes  350  grounds the printed circuit board  330  and/or the one or more nodes  350  through screws  338 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , nodes  350  may extend through apertures  176  and into chamber  167 . In other words, the base  364  of a node  350  may be disposed below first wall  161  of display panel  160 . This allows printed circuit boards  330  to be suspended in chambers  167  such that they are not attached to or in contact with first wall  161 . In some embodiments, where first wall  161 , perimeter wall  163 , or second wall  165  are subject to deformation, due to, for example, humidity, material properties, and/or stress, suspension of printed circuit boards  330  minimizes the potential for their damage in the event that first wall  161 , perimeter wall  163  and/or second wall  165  deform. For example, if first wall  161  is made of wood, changes in humidity may cause first wall  161  to deform and/or crack. Suspending printed circuit boards  330  within chambers  167  helps to isolate them from changes in first wall  161 . This increases the lifetime of the table and helps minimize maintenance costs for replacing damaged printed circuit boards  330 . 
     Further, because printed circuit boards  330  are fixed relative to nodes  350 , deformation in materials of display panel  160  will not cause a tendency for printed circuit boards  330  to move relative to nodes  350 . If nodes  350  move due to material deformation, then printed circuit boards  330  move with them. This can help maintain a good connection between printed circuit boards  330  and display fixtures  400  inserted within nodes  350 . 
       FIG. 22  shows two display fixtures  400  removably disposed in nodes  350  (i.e., insertable in and removable from nodes  350 ). Each display fixture  400  may include a plug  402  having a top surface  404 , a bottom surface  406 , and a side surface  408  separating top surface  404  from bottom surface  406 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , hollow interior  358  of node  350  is configured to receive at least a portion of plug  402  on display fixture  400 . In some embodiments, hollow interior  358  may be configured to receive the entire plug  402 . In some embodiments, hollow interior  358  may be configured to receive the entire plug  402  such that top surface  404  of plug  402  is flush with flange  352  and/or product surface  162  of display panel  160 . When plug  402  is received within node  350 , side surface  408  and bottom surface  406  may contact interior surface  360  and proximal surface  368  of node  350 , respectively. 
     Side surface  408  of plug  402  may include second alignment feature  409  for engaging and mating with first alignment feature  361  on interior surface  360  of node  350 . Second alignment feature  409  may include, but is not limited to a notch, a projection or a groove (as shown in  FIG. 22 ). Preferably, second alignment feature  409  compliments first alignment feature  361 . For example, in some embodiments, first alignment feature  361  may be a projection and second alignment feature  409  may be groove configured to slide over the projection. 
     Display fixture  400  may include a stem  410  attached to top surface  404  of plug  402 . Stem  410  may connect a charging element  420  (e.g., a charging puck  420 ) to plug  402  and may be used to carry wiring for electrically connecting charging puck  420  to electrical connectors  434  of plug  402  (e.g., via a printed circuit board  430  disposed within plug  402 ). 
     In some embodiments, charging puck  420  may include a proximal surface  422 , a side surface  424  attached to stem  410 , and distal surface  426 . Charging puck  420  may have any shape, including but not limited to, cylindrical (as shown in  FIG. 22 ), concave, convex, polygonal, or ellipsoidal. Charging puck  420  may have an inductive charging mechanism  428  disposed therein. The interior of charging puck  420  may include circuitry and/or electronics for inductively charging a product held by display fixture  400 . The circuitry and/or electronics may be potted within the interior of charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, proximal surface  422  of charging puck  420  may hold a product (e.g., product  270 ) thereon, via magnetic force (e.g., by a magnet disposed within charging puck  420 ), and provide power to the product via inductive charging of the product&#39;s battery. 
     In some embodiments, proximal surface  422  may include a security switch  421 . Security switch  421  may be used to detect whether a product is supported by display fixture  400 , and can trigger an alarm in response to a product being removed from display fixture  400 . For example, in some embodiments, when product  270  is coupled to display fixture  400 , product  270  may engage (or disengage) security switch  421  (e.g., by the backside of product  270  depressing a button of security switch  421 ). Security switch  421  may be communicatively coupled to an alarm or other alert such that the alert can be triggered by removal of product  270  from display fixture  400 . Such removal of a product from display fixture  400  may disengage (or engage) security switch  421 , thereby triggering the alert. 
     In some embodiments, security switch  412  may be an electronic switch integrated within the circuitry and/or software used to control inductive charging mechanism  428 . For example, if the software controlling inductive charging mechanism  428  senses that product  270  has been removed from display fixture  400  (e.g., by a change in magnetic forces or charging state due the removal of a product), the software may trigger an alarm in response to sensing that product  270  has been removed. Security switch  421  may be in communication with master controller  204  and/or controller  281 . In some embodiments, master controller  204  and/or controller  281  may be configured to activate or deactivate security switch  421 . 
     Printed circuit board  430  may be disposed within plug  402  and may be designed to receive power at a given voltage from a printed circuit board  330  and send it to charging puck  420 . Printed circuit boards  330  may include one or more voltage regulators that can modify or otherwise control the amount of voltage delivered from a power distributor  322  to one or more electrical contacts  332 . In turn, printed circuit board  430  may receive power (e.g., at 5 volts) through electrical connector  434  (e.g., via two pins  436  thereof, one for each of power and ground) from an electrical contact  332  of printed circuit board  330  and route it to wires that connect to charging puck  420 . 
     In some embodiments, printed circuit board  430  may be preconfigured to receive voltage from a printed circuit board  330  and route the voltage at a specific current to charging puck  420  so as to control the amount of power delivered to charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, printed circuit board  430  may terminate positive and negative data signals (e.g., USB D+ and D−) from charging puck  420  so as to control the maximum amount of current a charging puck  420  can draw. In other words, display fixture  400  may use the data connection between charging puck  420  and printed circuit board  430  to determine an optimum amount of current for the charging puck to draw (e.g., a maximum amount, a most efficient amount), thereby controlling the amount of current a charging puck  420  draws from a printed circuit board  330 . 
     In some embodiments, printed circuit board  430  may include resistors that set the maximum amount of current that a charging puck  420  can draw. In some embodiments, printed circuit board  330  may boost the voltage (e.g., using its voltage regulators) received from a power distributor  322  so as to compensate or otherwise account for any voltage drop due to transfer along power cords  324 . 
     The design and configuration of printed circuit boards  330  and printed circuit boards  430  increases the modularity and flexibility of a display system. Different printed circuit boards  330  preconfigured for different voltage and/or different display fixtures  400  preconfigured for different currents may be used to power different types and/or generations of products. Since display fixtures  400  are removably disposed in nodes  350 , different display fixtures may be exchanged depending on the type and/or generation of product displayed within a specific display cavity  141  or a portion of a specific display cavity  141 , which increases the modularity of table  100 . 
     Printed circuit board  430  may receive voltage from a printed circuit board  330  via an electrical connector  434  extending from bottom surface  406  of plug  402 . In some embodiments, electrical connector  434  may include two pins  436  for contacting electrical contacts  332  disposed on an interface surface of a printed circuit board  330  (see  FIG. 23 ). In some embodiments, electrical contacts  332  may be gold plated to resist corrosion. While two pins  436  are described herein, electrical connector  434  may include any number of pins. Each electrical contact  332  on printed circuit board  330  may include a contact pair  333  corresponding to the two pins  436  extending from bottom surface  406  of plug  402 . In some embodiments, one pin  436  receives power and the other pin  436  receives ground from respective contacts in a contact pair  333 . In some embodiments, a printed circuit board  430  may be disposed within a test plug for testing the operability of power/data supply system  230 . In some embodiments, the test plug may include an indicator (e.g., a LED) for indicating whether or not power/data supply system  230  is properly supplying power and/or data to a node  350 . 
     Pins  436  may extend from a bottom surface  404  so as to pass through through hole  366  formed in the base of a node  350 . Pins  436  may have sufficient length so as to extend from bottom surface  404  of plug  402  to contact pairs  333  on a printed circuit board  330  when plug  402  is fully seated within node  350 . In some embodiments, pins  436  may be spring loaded to facilitate connection between the ends of pins  436  and contact pairs  333 . Spring loading pins  436  minimize the potential for small deviations in the distance between bottom surface  404  and contact pairs  333  from disrupting electrical contact between pins  436  and contact pairs  333 . 
     Plug  402  may also include at least one second magnet  432  coupled thereto. In some embodiments, second magnet(s)  432  may be disposed on or embedded within plug  402 . Second magnet(s)  432  may be configured to attract first magnet(s)  372  coupled to base  364  of node  350 , and vice versa. The attraction between second magnet(s)  432  and first magnet(s)  372  may releasably hold plug  402  within hollow interior  358  of node  350 . Additionally, the attraction between the magnets may overcome any force exerted by spring loaded electrical connectors  434 , such as spring loaded pins  436 , to promote strong connection between electrical connectors  434  and electrical contacts  332  of printed circuit boards  330 . 
     The releasable connection between plugs  402  on display fixtures  400  and nodes  350 , as well as the design of electrical connectors  434  and electrical contacts  332 , increases the modularity of a display system. As discussed above, this allows display fixtures to be easily exchanged if a user wishes to display a different type and/or generation of products within a display cavity, and gives the user the ability to use all or just a subset of available nodes  350 . In the event that new or updated display fixtures are needed, the releasable connection between plugs  402  on display fixtures  400  and nodes  350 , as well as the design of electrical connectors  434  and electrical contacts  332 , makes exchanging display fixtures easy. 
     Moreover, printed circuit boards  330  may also be modular in fashion. As shown in  FIG. 23 , power cables  324  may be plugged into a printed circuit board  330  via a connector  334  and screw holes  336  may be disposed on printed circuit boards  330  for receiving screws  338 . As such, printed circuit boards  330  may also be exchanged when needed. The modularity of the display fixtures and printed circuit boards  330  allows a table  100  to be retrofitted with new display fixtures and/or printed circuit boards  330 . 
       FIGS. 24A, 24B, and 25  show display fixture  400  according to some embodiments. Display fixture  400  may include plug  402  having first alignment feature  409  disposed on side surface  408  and stem  410  extending from top surface  404 . Display fixture  400  may also include electrical connector  434  having two pins  436  extending from bottom wall  406 . Stem  410  may include an extension  412  fixed to top surface  404  of plug  402  and a ring  414  attached to extension  412 . In some embodiments, stem  410  may a single integrally formed piece. In some embodiments, extension  412  and ring  414  may be separate pieces that are fixed together. In some embodiments, extension  412  and ring  414  may be fixed together using, for example, welding or an adhesive. Ring  414  may have a first end  418  and a second end  419  attached to opposing sides of side surface  424  of charging puck  420 . First end  418  and second end  419  may be fixed to side surface  424  using, for example, welding or an adhesive. In some embodiments, the weld may be present on an interior portion of charging puck  420  such that the weld is not visable on the exterior of display fixture  400 . In some embodiments, welds on display fixture  400  may be laser welds. In some embodiments, stem  410  may be made of stainless steel. 
     Ring  414  may have any shape, including but not limited, to a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape. In some embodiments, at least a portion of a product (e.g., product  270 ) held by display fixture  400  may wrap around ring  414 . In some embodiments, stem  410  may not include extension  412  and ring  414 , but rather stem  410  may be composed of a single structure, such as a straight rod or tube (see e.g., stem  710  in  FIG. 28 ) or a curved/bent rod or tube. 
     Stem  410  may also include a groove  415  disposed on at least a portion of stem  410 . For example, groove  415  may be disposed on and around a portion of ring  414  as shown in  FIGS. 24A, 24B, and 25 . Groove  415  may be used to house one or more wires  416  that electrically connect charging puck  420  to electrical connectors  434  (e.g., via printed circuit board  430 ) of plug  402 . In some embodiments, groove  415  may extend from extension  412 , around a portion of ring  414 , and terminate at side surface  424  of charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, ring  414  is initially formed having a solid (e.g., cylindrical) cross-sectional shape, and groove  415  is machined into this shape. 
     As shown in  FIG. 25 , groove  415  may connect to a channel  417  disposed in extension  412 . In some embodiments, channel  417  may be disposed completely within and through the center of extension  412 . In other words, extension  412  may be a tube having a hollow interior with channel  417  defining the hollow interior. Channel  417  in combination with groove  415  may serve to escort wire  416  from plug  402  (e.g., from printed circuit board  430  of plug  402 ) to charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, ring  414  may be a hollow tube having an internal channel similar to channel  417 . In such embodiments, wire  416  may be completely concealed within ring  414 , and thus, may be completed concealed within display fixture  400 . In some embodiments, after routing wire  416  in groove  415 , groove  415  may closed (e.g., by filling groove  415  with a material or by closing groove  415  using mechanical force) so as to conceal wire  416  within ring  414 . 
     In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in  FIG. 30 , wire  416  may include at least one conductor wire  900  and an insulated ground wire  904 . Conductor wire(s)  900  may be configured to supply power and/or data from printed circuit board  430  to charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, conductors wires  900  for supplying power may have a gauge of 30 AWG (American Wire Gauge). In some embodiments, conductor wires  900  for supplying data may have a gauge of 34 AWG. Ground wire  904  may serve to ground charging puck  420  via printed circuit board  430  and printed circuit board  330 . In some embodiments, ground wire  904  may have a gauge of 34 AWG. In some embodiments, wire  416  may include a guide wire  902  to facilitate routing of wire  416  through channel  417 . Guide wire  902  may be a single strand of 34 AWG power wire. Wire  416  may also include a filler  906 . Filler  906  may be composed of an insulating material such as aramid fiber. In some embodiments, filer  906  may be two 100 D strands of aramid fiber. 
     In some embodiments, wire  416  may include a polyester wrapping  908  disposed around wires  900 ,  902 , and  904  and filler  906 . Polyester wrapping  908  may be a thin wrapping used in place of conventional wire jackets that are typically much thicker. As such, polyester wrapping  908  reduces the overall diameter of wire  416 , to thereby allow a minimized size for extension  412 . In some embodiments, wire  416  may also include a polyethylene (PE) film  910  disposed on and around polyester wrapping  908 . In some embodiments, the PE film may be made of MYLAR®. The PE film reduces surface frication and facilitates routing of wire  416  though channel  417  in extension  412 . The construction of the wire  416  shown in  FIG. 30  results in a wire having a smaller overall diameter than conventional wires. The small overall diameter of wire  416  also facilitates the routing of wire through channel  417 . In some embodiments, the overall diameter of wire  416  may be in the range from 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm. In some embodiments, the overall diameter of wire  416  is 1.3 mm. 
       FIG. 26  shows a display fixture  500  according to some embodiments. Display fixture  500  may include a plug  502  attached to a stem  510 . In some embodiments, plug  502  may include a cord  503 , such as audio or USB cord, connected to plug  502  and configured to supply power and/or data to a charging puck  520 . Plug  502  may also include a printed circuit board (such as printed circuit board  430 ) disposed therein. Similar to stem  410 , stem  510  may include an extension  512  fixed to plug  502  and a ring  514  fixed to extension  512  and charging puck  520 . Ring  514  may include a groove  515  for escorting a wire  516  from extension  512  to charging puck  520 . In some embodiments, extension  512 , ring  514 , groove  515 , and wire  516  may have the same characteristics as extension  412 , ring  414 , groove  415 , and wire  416  described in detail above with respect to  FIGS. 24A, 24B, 25, and 30 . Charging puck  520  may have the same characteristics as charging puck  420 . In some embodiments, charging puck  520  may have a proximal surface  522  having a security switch  521  disposed thereon. In some embodiments, security switch  521  may be an electronic switch integrated within the circuitry and/or software used to control an inductive charging mechanism associated with charging puck  520 . Security switch  521  may have the same functionality as security switch  421 . And security switch  521  may be in communication with and controlled by a controller, such as master controller  204  and/or controller  281 . 
       FIG. 27  shows a display apparatus  600  according to some embodiments. Display apparatus  600  may include a base  604  on a distal end  602  and a display cavity  614  on a proximal end  610 . Display cavity  614  may include a product surface  620  having at least one aperture for receiving at least a portion of a node  622  for holding a display fixture, for example display fixture  500 . The aperture(s) on product surface  620  and node  622  may be the same or similar to aperture  176  and node  350 , respectively. In some embodiments, nodes  622  may be modified to accommodate plug  502  and cord  503 . While  FIG. 27  shows display apparatus  600  holding display fixture  500 , display cavity  614  may be used to hold other types of display fixtures, such as display fixtures  400  or  700 . A panel  612  may be disposed over display cavity  614  on proximal end  610  of display apparatus  600 . In some embodiments, panel  612  may be transparent (e.g., formed of glass), and may enclose display cavity  614  and define a top portion of display cavity  614 . In some embodiments, panel  612  may have the same or similar construction as glass panel  120 . 
     In some embodiments, display apparatus  600  may have a hollow casing  606  extending from distal end  602  to proximal end  610 . Hollow casing  606  may include a receptacle  608  disposed at proximal end  610  for receiving at least a portion of display cavity  614 . And base  604  may seal hollow casing  606  at distal end  602 . A chamber  630  within hollow casing  606  may house electronics  632  for supplying data and/or power to a product displayed within display cavity  614 . In some embodiments, display apparatus  600  may be mounted in a surface, such as a surface of a wall or in a table. In some embodiments, panel  612  may be flush with the surface, or may protrude out from the surface (e.g., by the depth of display cavity  614 ). In some embodiments, display apparatus  600  may be coupled to at least one controller for controlling at least: (1) the supply of power and/or data to display apparatus  600  and the products displayed therein, (2) the temperature within display cavity  614 , and/or (3) lighting within cavity  614 , similarly as described above for table  100 . 
       FIG. 28  shows a display fixture  700  according to some embodiments. Display fixture  700  may include a plug  702  and a stem  710  fixed to plug  702 . In some embodiments plug  702  may have the same characteristics as plug  402 . In some embodiments stem  710  may be a straight rod or tube or a curved or bent rod or tube. In some embodiments, stem  710  may have the same characteristics as stem  410 . Display fixture  700  may also include a charging puck  720  for supplying power and/or data to a product help by display fixture  700 . Charging puck  720  may include a proximal surface  722  for supporting a product, a side surface  724 , and a distal surface  726  fixed to stem  710 . Proximal surface  722  may include a cable access  725 , which may provide access for an auxiliary cable  730 , which may be a data/power cable or other linkage, and which may connect to a port on the product held by display fixture  700  to provide data and/or power to the product. In some embodiments, data and/or power can be provided to cable access  725  from a printed circuit board  330  via a printed circuit board  430  disposed in plug  702  and a wire  728  electrically connected to cable access  725 . Wire  728  may have the same or a similar construction as wire  416 . Cable access  725  may be a cable pass-through through which the power/data cable can pass, or may be an outlet configured to receive a data/power cable plug from, e.g., auxiliary cable  730 . In some embodiments, display fixtures  400  and  500  may including a cable access, an auxiliary cable, and a wire electrically connected to the cable access, similar to display fixture  700 , in addition to or in replacement of an inductive charging mechanism. 
     Any suitable outlet and plug combination can be used at either end of auxiliary cable  730  to provide such power and/or data transmission through cable access  725  to a product, such as, for example, Universal Serial Bus (USB), micro-USB, mini-USB, Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) (e.g., Parallel ATA, Serial ATA), or any other standard or proprietary connection format. 
     In some embodiments, proximal surface  722  may include security switch  721 . Security switch  721  may be communicatively coupled to an alarm or other alert such that the alert can be triggered by removal of a product supported by display fixture  700 . Such removal of a product from display fixture  700  may disengage (or engage) security switch  721 , thereby triggering the alert. Security switch  721  may have the same functionality as security switch  421 . And security switch  721  may be in communication with and controlled by a controller, such as master controller  204  and/or controller  281 . 
       FIG. 29  shows an alignment jig  800  that may be used to orient nodes  350  within apertures  176  on a display panel  160  in the same direction relative to product surface  162 , to present a consistent orientation and appearance among displayed products  270 . Alignment jig  800  may include a jig receptacle surface  802  defining a plurality of jig receptacles  804  configured to receive plug jigs  806 . Alignment jig  800  may include an elongated shape such that receptacles  804  may be aligned in a row. In some embodiments, each plug jig  806  may be releasably attached within a jig receptacle  804 . The releasable attachment between plug jigs  806  and receptacles  804  may be provided by, for example, a slidable fit, friction fit, magnetic forces, or a snap-fit. In some embodiments, at least one plug jig  806  may be fixed within at least one jig receptacle  804 . 
     Plug jigs  806  may each include a body  807  having an upper surface  808  configured to fit within a jig receptacle  804  and an outer surface  810  configured to be at least partially received within a jig receptacle  804 . Plug jigs  806  may also include an alignment fitting  814  attached to a lower surface  812  of body  807 . Preferably, body  807  of plug jig  806  is sized and shaped to correspond with the size and shape of jig receptacle  804 . In some embodiments, jig receptacles  804  and bodies  807  may have a cross-sectional shape, in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion of the a plug jig  806  into a jig receptacle  804  (i.e., in a direction parallel to jig receptacle surface  802 ), that is non-circular such that plug jigs  806  may only be oriented within jig receptacles  804  in predetermined orientations. The non-circular shape may be, but is not limited to, an oval shape or a pentagon shape. In some embodiments, jig receptacles  804  and bodies  807  may have a cross-sectional shape, in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion of a plug jig  806  into a jig receptacle  804  (i.e., in a direction parallel to jig receptacle surface  802 ), that is non-symmetrical such that plug jigs  806  may only be oriented within jig receptacles  804  in a single predetermined orientation. The non-symmetrical shape may be, but is not limited to, a square with a projection extending from one side. Plug jigs  806  must be aligned in the same direction within receptacles  804  so that alignment jig  800  can be used to orient nodes  350  is the same direction. The non-circular or non-symmetrical shape facilitates the proper alignment of plug jigs  806  on alignment jig  800 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 29 , each plug jig  806  may be aligned such that surface features  818  disposed on surfaces  816  of alignment fittings  814  are oriented in the same direction. In some embodiments, surface feature  818  may protrude from surface  816  on alignment fittings  814 . In some embodiments, surface feature  818  may be a groove within surface  816  on alignment fittings  814 , similar to second alignment feature  409  described with reference to plug  402  above. Surface feature  818  may be sized and shaped to compliment first alignment feature  361  on node  350 . Surface feature  818  may be, but is not limited to, a notch, a projection, or a groove. For example, if first alignment feature  361  is a projection, surface feature  818  may be a groove configured to slide over the projection, or vice versa. 
     Alignment fitting  814  may be configured to fit within hollow interior  358  of node  350  so that a bottom surface  820  of alignment fitting  814  contacts proximal surface  368  of base  364  when alignment fitting  814  is inserted into node  350 . In some embodiments, alignment fitting  814  may have a length corresponding to the depth of node  350  such that a lower surface  812  of plug jig  806  contacts flange  352  of node  350  when bottom surface  820  contacts proximal surface  368  of base  364 . 
     In operation, a node  350  may be placed onto each alignment fitting  814  and held thereon. In some embodiments, node  350  may be held on alignment fitting  814  due to a friction-fit between interior surface  360  of node  350  and alignment surface  816 . In some embodiments, node  350  may be held on alignment fitting  814  via magnetic force. Due to first alignment feature  361  on node  350  and surface feature  818  on alignment surface  816 , a node  350  will only fit over each alignment fitting  814  in a single direction. Once at least two nodes are placed over alignment fitting  814 , a user may place alignment jig  800  over product surface  162  such that the at least two nodes  350  are received in apertures  176 . Once the at least two node  350  are received in apertures  176 , alignment jig  800  may be removed, thereby leaving the node(s)  350  within the aperture(s)  176 , aligned with each other. In some embodiments, node(s)  350  may remain in aperture(s)  176  due to a friction fit between an aperture  176  and exterior surface  362  of hollow frame  354 , the friction force between the aperture  176  and exterior surface  362  being larger than the friction force between interior surface  360  and alignment surface  816  or the magnetic force used to hold node  350  on alignment fitting  814 . Subsequent nodes  350  may be placed in the same manner. To maintain alignment with previously placed nodes  350 , at least one plug jig  806  for a previously placed node  350  may be maintained within node  350 , and at least one jig receptacle  804  may be kept empty when preparing the alignment jig for placing subsequent nodes  350 . When placing the subsequent nodes  350 , the empty jig receptacle  804  may be placed over the previously-placed plug jig  806 , thereby aligning the subsequent nodes  350  with the previously placed node  350 . 
     Some embodiments may include a kit having an alignment jig  800  and at least one plug jig  806  and/or at least one node  350 . In some embodiments, the kit may include instructions for using alignment jig  800 , in conjunction with at least one plug jig  806 , to orient nodes  350  within apertures  176  in the same direction relative to product surface  162  on a display panel  160 . 
       FIG. 32  illustrates a perspective view of a DC-to-DC converter  1200  according to some embodiments of the present invention, which may receive, convert, and distribute power, and a MagSafe plug connector  1205  and Molex plug connectors  1210 ,  1215  lined up to mate with corresponding connectors of DC-to-DC converter  1200 . Converter  1200 , as described in further detail below, may include a MagSafe receptacle connector (e.g., MagSafe receptacle connector  1344 , as shown in  FIG. 33C ) that can mate with MagSafe plug connector  1205  along an insertion axis  1220 . MagSafe plug connector  1205 , which can be part of a MagSafe power adapter  1225 , may provide a DC input voltage such as 20 V at 85 watts (W). Converter  1200  also includes regulator circuitry, as further described with reference to  FIGS. 34A and 34B , for converting the DC input voltage to one or more DC output voltages (e.g., 12 V, 5 V or 3.3 V or slightly higher voltages such as 5.2 volts to account for cable losses, etc.) that are provided at two-contact Molex receptacle connector  1230  and three-contact Molex receptacle connectors  1235 ,  1240 ,  1245 . 
     Two-contact Molex receptacle connector  1230  can mate along an insertion axis  1250  with two-contact Molex plug connectors  1210 , which can be part of a Molex cable assembly  1255 , and provide, e.g., 12 V at 75 W. Additionally, three-contact Molex receptacle connector  1245  can mate along an insertion axis  1260  with three-contact Molex plug connector  1215 , which can be part of a Molex cable assembly  265 , and provide, e.g., 5 V at 75 W and/or 3.3 V at 60 W. Three-contact Molex receptacle connectors  1235 ,  1240  can also mate with three-contact Molex plug connector  1215 . As shown in  FIG. 32 , two-contact and three-contact Molex plug connectors  1210 ,  1215  may include contacts (e.g., contacts  1270 ,  1271 ,  1275 ,  1276 ,  1277 ) for forming an electrical connection with corresponding contacts of the Molex receptacle connectors and retention features (e.g., deflecting latching arms  1280 ,  1281 ,  1285 ,  1286 ) for retaining the electrical connection between the corresponding connectors once they are mated. 
     Molex cable assemblies  1255 ,  1265  may also include another connector (e.g., a Molex connector or another standard electrical connector such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector) for providing the power received at their respective plug connectors. As such, Molex cable assemblies  1255 ,  1265  may provide the DC output voltage of converter  1200  to other cable assemblies, other power conversion circuitry, or to connectors of electronic devices. Alternatively, the other end of Molex cable assemblies  1255 ,  1265  can be wired directly to an electronic device. For example, the Molex cable assemblies can be connected via Molex connectors to electronic devices such as fans (e.g. fans  242 ) for cooling devices, lights (e.g., lights  254 ), and/or inductive charging devices (e.g., display fixtures  400 ). In some embodiments, the Molex cable assemblies can be connected to one or more printed circuit boards (e.g., printed circuit boards  330 ) for providing power to electronic devices. Further examples and discussion of the destinations of the DC output voltages provided by converter  1200  are discussed above and can also be found in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 62/045,474 and 62/045,457, both filed on Sep. 3, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
     Although converter  1200  is shown and described as receiving a DC input voltage using a MagSafe receptacle connector, some embodiments may use other standard connectors instead of a MagSafe connector. For example, a coaxial power connector, a snap and lock DC power connector, a Molex connector or any other DC power connector can be used instead of or in addition to a MagSafe receptacle connector. Similarly, instead of or in addition to Molex receptacle connectors  1230 ,  1235 ,  1240 ,  1245 , converter  1200  may include a banana connector, an ATX Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX) connector, or any other DC power connector. Additionally, while the MagSafe connector of converter  1200  is described above as being an 85 W MagSafe connector, different MagSafe connectors may also be included with other embodiments (e.g., a 60 W MagSafe connector). Similarly, other versions of Molex connectors can be used instead of Molex receptacle connectors  1230 ,  1235 ,  1240 ,  1245 . 
       FIGS. 33A-33C  illustrate perspective, front, and back views, respectively, of a DC-to-DC converter  1300 , according to an embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 3A , converter  1300  includes a housing  1302  having connection openings  1304 ,  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310  for Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316 ,  1318 , respectively. Connection openings  1304 ,  1306 ,  1308 ,  1310  are located at side surface  1320  of the four side surfaces extending between top and bottom surfaces  1322 ,  1324  of housing  1302 . An additional connection opening (e.g., connection opening  1342 , as shown in  FIG. 33C ) can be located at another side surface of housing  1302  (e.g., side surface  1320 , as shown in  FIG. 33B ). 
     The axes set of  FIG. 33A  is labeled relative to the dimensions of housing  1302 , including length (l), width (w) and thickness (t) dimensions. The length of housing  1302  can range between about 60 to 100 millimeters (mm), e.g., 79 mm or 90 mm. The width of housing  1302  can range between about 60 to 100 mm, e.g., 77 mm or 85 mm. The thickness of housing  1302  can range between about 5 to 50 mm, e.g., 22 mm or 30 mm. The overall volume of housing  1302  can be, e.g., less than 100 cubic centimeters or less than 500 cubic centimeters. As another example, the overall volume of housing  1302  can be less than 400 cubic centimeters, having dimensions less than 100 mm×95 mm×4.0 mm. As yet another example, the overall volume of housing  1302  can be less than 150 cubic centimeters, having dimensions less than 80 mm×77 mm×23 mm. As such, the size of converter  1300  can be an order of magnitude smaller than traditional standalone DC-to-DC converters for handling similar input voltages, while providing a cosmetic minimalist appearance. 
     Due to the size of housing  1302 , the circuitry of converter  1300  can be designed to manage heat dissipation that occurs during voltage conversion such that housing  1302  does not become hot during operation, as further discussed in relation to  FIGS. 34A and 34B . Housing  1302  can be made from materials such as a polymer (e.g., polycarbonate) to help dissipate the heat produced by converter  1300 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 33B , side surface  1320  includes three-contact Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316 , each of which include three sockets (e.g., sockets  1326 ,  1328  and  1330 ) for contacts (not shown) and two-contact Molex receptacle connector  1318 , which includes two sockets  1332 ,  1334  for contacts (not shown). These Molex connectors also include latching protrusions (e.g., latching protrusions  1336 ,  1338 ) for deflecting and securing corresponding latch arms (e.g., latch arms  1280 ,  1281 ,  1285 ,  1286 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ) when mated with corresponding connectors (e.g., Molex plug connectors  1210 ,  1215 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ). As also shown in  FIG. 33B , Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316 ,  1318  are keyed, which, along with having a different number of sockets, may help to prevent incorrect couplings with corresponding connectors. 
     Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316  can have a pinout that includes two power contacts and one ground contact, and Molex receptacle connectors  1318  can have a pinout that includes one power contact and one ground contact. For example, sockets  1326 ,  1328 ,  1330  of Molex receptacle connectors  1312  can include a 5 V contact, a 5 V contact, and a ground (GRN) contact, respectively, in order to provide a 5 V DC output voltage. Using two 5 V contacts can allow a corresponding Molex connector assembly to include a lower gauge wire due to a lower voltage drop. Alternatively, sockets  1326 ,  1328 ,  1330  of Molex receptacle connectors  1312  can include a 5 V contact, a 3.3 V contact, and a GRN contact, respectively, in order to provide a 5 V or a 3.3 DC output voltage, depending on the configuration of the corresponding Molex connector mated therewith. Sockets  1332 ,  1334  of Molex receptacle connectors  1318  can include a 12 V contact and a GRN contact, respectively, in order to provide a 12 V DC output voltage. Other pinouts can also be used. 
     Although converter  1300  is shown and described as including Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316 ,  1318  in specific positions with specific pinouts, embodiments of the invention may include Molex receptacle connectors at different locations of housing  1302  (e.g., at top surface  1322  or bottom surface  1324 ) and the output voltages and associated pinouts can also be varied (e.g., the pinouts may include more contacts and/or contacts having different voltages). 
     As shown in  FIG. 33C , a side surface  1340  of housing  1302 , which can be opposite side surface  1320 , includes a connection opening  1342  for a MagSafe receptacle connector  1344  and a light pipe  1346 . MagSafe receptacle connector  1342  includes a raised portion  1348  that extends from a recessed surface  1350  and contacts  1352   a - 1352   e  are disposed on raised portion  1348 . MagSafe receptacle connector  1342  also includes an electromagnet (not shown) that can be energizable to magnetically attract a magnetic element of a corresponding standard connector (e.g., MagSafe plug connector  1205 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ). Further examples and discussion of features and embodiments of MagSafe receptacle connector  1344  and corresponding connectors can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,311,526, for “MAGNETIC CONNECTOR FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE,” filed Sep. 26, 2005, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto. 
     Light pipe  1344  can transmit light generated by light-emitting diodes (e.g., light-emitting diodes  1404 , as shown in  FIG. 34A ) that indicates the power status of converter  1300 . For example, a green light-emitting diode (LED) light transmitted by light pipe  1344  can indicate that power is being received at converter  1300  (e.g., power is being received from MagSafe plug connector  1205 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ), while a red LED light transmitted by light pipe  1344  can indicate that input loads are larger than the specification and hence converter  1300  will remain inactive and should be power-cycled. 
     Although converter  1300  is shown and described as having a standard input connector (e.g., MagSafe receptacle connector  1342 ) located on one side surface of housing  1302  and standard output connectors (e.g., Molex receptacle connectors  1312 ,  1314 ,  1316 ,  1318 ) located on another side surface of housing  1302 , some embodiments may include standard input and output connectors in different locations. For example, converter  1300  may include standard input and output connectors on other side surfaces of housing  1302  (e.g., on a bottom surface or a different side surface) and/or both the input and output connectors can be located on the same surface of housing  1302  (e.g., top surface  1322 ). Additionally, while the standard input and output connectors of converter  1300  are different connector types, some embodiments may include standard input and output connectors that are the same type. Alternatively, the included standard output connectors may not all be the same. For example, converter  1300  could include both Molex and MagSafe connectors for its standard output connectors or one or more Molex and/or MagSafe connectors as well as other standard connectors for its standard output connectors. 
     As mentioned above, more details are provided herein regarding the circuitry of converters  1200  and  1300  for converting a DC input voltage to one or more DC output voltages, the following figures illustrate examples of this regulator circuitry included on a printed circuit board (PCB). 
       FIGS. 34A and 34B  illustrate front and back views, respectively, of a PCB  1400  of a DC-to-DC converter, according to some embodiments of the present invention. PCB  1400  be can sized such that it can be disposed within a DC-to-DC converter&#39;s housing (e.g., housing  1302 , as shown in  FIGS. 33A-33C ). For example, the dimensions of PCB  1400  can be 55 mm×70 mm×1 mm, with a tallest component height being 7.6 mm on one side and 7 mm on the other side. As shown in  FIG. 34A , the front side of PCB  1400  includes a MagSafe receptacle connector  1402 ; power status indicator LED  1404 ; input circuitry  1406 ; voltage regulator circuitry, including first and second regulator circuitry  1408 ,  1410 ; and Molex receptacle connectors  1412 ,  1414 ,  1416 ,  1418  as well as other components. 
     When PCB  1400  is assembled within a converter housing, MagSafe receptacle connector  1402  can be positioned adjacent to a connector opening (e.g., connector opening  1342 , as shown in  FIG. 33C ) such that a corresponding MagSafe plug connector (e.g., MagSafe plug connector  1205 ) can be mated therewith. MagSafe receptacle connector  1402  can be configured to receive and route a DC input voltage (e.g., 20 V at 85 W) to input circuitry  1406 , but an impedance check may occur before power is drawn from the DC input voltage source. LED  1404  will indicate to a user whether power is being drawn via a light pipe (e.g., light pipe  1346 ), as discussed above. A joint test action group (JTAG) header  1420  can be used for loading firmware that controls LED  1404  and a low-dropout regulator (LDO)  1422  can be used to step down the DC input voltage for LED  1404 . 
     Input circuitry  1406  may perform a number of functions, including determining whether the current of the DC input voltage exceeds an upper current threshold (e.g., 4.22 amperes). A current sensing mechanism including a sensor and a comparator can be included with input circuitry  1406  to perform this function. Input circuitry  1406  can also include fuses (e.g., 6 amperes resettable fuses) for dealing with hard hits to the PCB circuitry, but the current sensing mechanism can take less time to recover so it can be included even though its function is redundant to the fuses. Input circuitry  1406  can also include a bleed resistor (not shown) placed in parallel with MagSafe receptacle connector  1402  to help discharge the electric charge stored in a power source&#39;s filter capacitors or other components when a DC input voltage power source (e.g., MagSafe plug connector  1205 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ) is quickly unplugged and plugged back into MagSafe receptacle connector  1402 . 
     After processing the DC input voltage, as described above, input circuitry  1406  provides the DC input voltage to first regulator circuitry  1408 . First regulator circuitry  1408  can receive the DC input voltage at controller  1426 , which can be coupled to a plurality of inductors  1428  and capacitors  1430   a - 1430   d  via a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET)  1432 . The plurality of inductors  1428  can be coupled in series to minimize drop while capacitors  1430   a - 1430   d  can be coupled in parallel and grouped around inductors  1428 . Together these components can step down the DC input to a lower voltage (e.g., 12 V at 75 W and 6 amperes (amps)). 
     MOSFET  1432  can also be coupled to additional capacitors that are included on the backside of PCB  1400 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4B , the back side of PCB  1400  can include capacitors  1434   a - 1434   d  that are coupled to the MOSFET  1432  through PCB  1400 , thereby providing additional electrically stability as MOSFET  1432  filters the DC input voltage before providing it to inductors  1428  and capacitors  1430   a - 1430   d . This layout helps to optimize power supply and heat dissipation to minimize the space required in the converter housing for PCB  1400 . The size of capacitors  1430   a - 1430   d  can also be optimized to avoid large drops and charge quickly while still being small in number. For example, capacitors  1430   a - 1430   d  can be rated at 180 microfarads (μF) and stand less than 8 mm tall. 
     After the DC input voltage has been stepped down, first regulator circuitry  1408  can provide a DC output voltage to a two-contact Molex receptacle connector  1418 , which can mate with a corresponding Molex plug connector (e.g., Molex plug connector  1210 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ). In addition, first regulator circuitry  1408  can provide its DC output voltage to second regulator circuitry  1410  when second regulator circuitry  1410  is configured to provide a DC output voltage that is less than the DC output voltage provided by first regulator circuitry  1408  (e.g., when first regulator circuitry  1408  outputs 12 V at 6 amps and second regulator circuitry  1410  outputs 5 V at 16.2 amps). This voltage path can help to further limit heat dissipation at PCB  1400 , as opposed to providing the DC input directly to second regulator circuitry  1410 . In addition to reducing losses and heat dissipation, controller  1426  does not need to be as complex when first regulator circuitry  1408  provides its DC output voltage to second regulator circuitry  1410 . 
     Second regulator circuitry  1410  can receive the DC output voltage of first regulator circuitry  1408  at controller  1426 , which can be coupled to a plurality of inductors  1438  and capacitors  1440   a - 1440   d  via a MOSFET  1442 . The plurality of inductors  1439  can be coupled in series to minimize drop while capacitors  1440   a - 1440   d  can be coupled in parallel and grouped around inductors  1438 . Together these components can step down the DC input to a lower voltage (e.g., 5 V at 75 W or 3.3 V at 60 W). 
     MOSFET  1436  can also be coupled to additional capacitors that are included on the backside of PCB  1400 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 34B , the back side of PCB  1400  can include capacitors  1444   a - 1444   b  that are coupled to the MOSFET  1436  through PCB  1400 , thereby providing additional electrical stability as MOSFET filters the DC output voltage of first regulator circuitry  1408  before providing it to inductors  1438  and capacitors  1440   a - 1440   b . This layout helps to optimize power supply and heat dissipation to minimize the space required in the converter housing for PCB  1400 . The size of capacitors  1440   a - 1440   b  can also be optimized to avoid large drops and charge quickly while still being small in number. For example, capacitors  1440   a - 1440   b  can be rated at 180 microfarads (μF) and stand less than 8 mm tall. 
     After the DC input voltage has been stepped down, second regulator circuitry  1410  can provide DC output voltages to three-contact Molex receptacle connectors  1412 , 1414 , 1416 , which can mate with corresponding Molex plug connectors (e.g., Molex plug connectors  1215 , as shown in  FIG. 32 ). Fuses (e.g., 8 amp resettable fuses) can be included for each of the Molex receptacle connectors  1412 ,  1414 ,  1416  to comply with National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. A resettable fuse can also be provided for Molex receptacle connector  1418  and variations thereof for the same reason. As with other three-contact Molex receptacle connectors discussed herein, three-contact Molex receptacle connectors  1412 ,  1414 ,  1416  can have the same or different pinouts in order to provide, e.g., 5 V and/or 3.3 V of DC output voltage. 
     First and second regulator circuitry  1408 ,  1410  and input circuitry  1406  of PCB  1400  can each include chokes (e.g., common mode chokes  1446 ,  1448 ,  1424 ) to filter out noise caused by transient power loads (e.g., connection to external inductive charging coils) so that less, if any, noise feeds back into the regulator circuitry, thereby improving electromagnetic compatibility. 
     The configuration of PCB  1400  as shown in  FIGS. 34A-34B  and described above, can allow a converter in which PCB  1400  is implemented to run continuously without needing a fan, while ensuring the converter housing does not become hot to the touch and even when a corresponding converter is running continuously at max load. PCB  1400  also includes empty region  1448 , which can allow the function of PCB  1400  to be expandable (e.g., to include additional standard output connectors). 
     Although PCB  1400  is shown and described as having regulator circuitry that includes two sub-circuits (e.g., first and second voltage regulator circuitry  1408  and  1410 ), additional voltage regulator circuitry may also be included on PCB  1400  for converting to additional DC output voltages. For example, PCB  1400  could include a third or more voltage regulator circuitry. Additionally, PCB  1400  can be configured to handle a number of different input voltages, including 20 V but also 30 V or other voltages. Additionally, although PCB  1400  as well as converters  1200 ,  1300  are discussed herein as providing non-variable DC output voltages (e.g., first and second voltage regulators  1408  and  1410  are configured to only output one DC output voltage), PCB  1400  and converters  1200 ,  1300  can be modified to provide variable DC output voltages. 
     Also, while a number of specific embodiments were disclosed with specific features, a person of skill in the art will recognize instances where the features of a number of different embodiments can be combined with the features of another embodiment. In addition, some specific embodiments of the invention set forth above were illustrated and described as having housings shaped liked a rectangular prism. A person of skill in the art will readily appreciate that DC-to-DC converter housings can be formed in other shapes, such a spherical, irregular, pyramidal, conical, cylindrical, and other shapes. 
     The foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. These exemplary embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. All specific details described are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. 
     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, and that by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, one may readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. 
     The Detailed Description section is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims. 
     The present invention has been described above with the aid of functional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. 
     The phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan. 
     The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20150827
Publication Date: 20180424
Grant Date: 20180424
Priority Date: 20140903
Inventors: SCHWALBACH, CHARLES A.
KUMKA, David Samuel
YANG, SHENG
KOSECOFF, David Benjamin
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06Q99/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06Q99/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/007", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47B13/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/025", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/024", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F10/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/0045", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F3/007", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F2003/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F3/001", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/022", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06Q99/00", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/022", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47B13/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47B13/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/022", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F10/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/0045", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F7/024", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F3/007", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F3/001", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A47F2003/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 55403655