Computer-controlled, remotely programmed at-shelf advertising system

A remotely programmable, computer-controlled display assembly securely and transversely connected to a self-service product display shelf such that at least a portion of the display assembly projects for visual observation into an aisle adjacent to the display shelf, said display assembly comprising:

• a digital processor comprising sufficient digital memory to store advertising displays, communications and control programs and data acquired from a remote source;
• at least one graphics display;
• a power supply;
• and a shelf-mounting system whereby the display assembly is securely connected to the shelf, the power supply comprising weight which is transferred directly to the shelf and not to the portion of the display projecting into the aisle.

A method for providing automated, remotely controlled and modifiable advertising at a product-carrying shelf along an aisle of a retail store comprising the following acts:

• providing a point-of-purchase advertising system comprising:
• at least one programmable display assembly securely and transversely connected to the shelf such that at least a portion of the display assembly extends for visual observation of advertising into an aisle adjacent to the shelf;
• and
• a controller, remotely disposed relative to the display assembly, said display assembly and controller, in combination, comprising a wireless data link to provide illuminated modifiable point-of-purchase advertising in close proximity to the product;
• providing as a part of said display assembly, a digital processor having sufficient digital memory to store advertising displays, communications and control programs;
• at least one graphics display;
• a power supply;
• and a shelf-mounting system whereby the display assembly is securely affixed to the shelf;
• transmitting a digital message from the controller to the display assembly, the digital message comprising at least one displayable image;
• receiving the digital message at the display assembly and displaying the image on the at least one graphics display.

A method of advertising a product in inventory on a retail shelf and monitoring the change in inventory, comprising the acts of:

• mounting a product-advertising device fo the retail store shelf adjacent to the inventory;
• displaying a form of advertising for the product at the device;
• monitoring the supply of the product on the shelf using a monitoring device associated with the advertising device;
• communicating the results of the monitoring act from the monitor at the device to a management retrieval location for inventory analysis and replenishment purposes.