|
|
| United States Patent Application |
20110181415
|
| Kind Code
|
A1
|
|
Gabara; Quinton
; et al.
|
July 28, 2011
|
Method and apparatus for maintaining and locating lost, misplaced or
stolen articles
Abstract
Theft increases the average product cost to consumers. A mentoring system
is presented that can help to reduce or prevent the inventory from lost
or theft. Theft is a serious concern in the consumer market place.
Industry loses billions per year on theft of merchandise. According to a
Reuters report, last year, thefts by employees of U.S. retail merchandise
accounted for $15.9 billion, or 44 percent of theft losses at stores,
more than shoplifting and vendor fraud combined. Thus, the total thief by
the customers and store employees during the year 2008 amounted to $36
billion. Several embodiments of ways to control or reduce the thefts in
the market place are presented.
| Inventors: |
Gabara; Quinton; (Murray Hill, NJ)
; Gabara; Thaddeus; (Murray Hill, NJ)
|
| Assignee: |
LCtank LLC
|
| Serial No.:
|
695176 |
| Series Code:
|
12
|
| Filed:
|
January 28, 2010 |
| Current U.S. Class: |
340/568.1 |
| Class at Publication: |
340/568.1 |
| International Class: |
G08B 13/14 20060101 G08B013/14 |
Claims
1. An apparatus that identifies when a component is removed from a cell
comprising: at least one reference block positioned a first distance from
a local processor; a boundary of the cell surrounding the local processor
is adjusted to align with the first distance; and a wireless link is
established within the cell to couple the component to the local
processor, wherein a loss of the wireless link identifies that the
component was removed from the cell.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: at least one wall to
physically confine the cell.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an energy transfer unit
that powers the component.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a component's
electronics are incorporated in at least one integrated circuit.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the reference block is permanently
positioned.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the boundary of the cell is adjusted
by varying a output power of the reference block.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein a component's output power is set to
the output power of the reference block.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein a local processor's output power is
set to the output power of the reference block.
9. An apparatus that identifies when a component is removed from a cell
comprising: the component programmed with a pre-defined output power
level; a boundary of the cell surrounding a local processor is determined
by the pre-defined power output level; and a wireless link is established
within the cell to couple the component to the local processor, wherein a
loss of any wireless link identifies that a component was removed from
the cell.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: at least one wall to
physically confine the cell.
11. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: an energy transfer unit
that powers the component.
12. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: a component's
electronics are incorporated in at least one integrated circuit.
13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the boundary of the cell is
adjusted by varying a output power of the component.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein a local processor's output power
is set to the output power of the component.
15. An portable hand held system apparatus comprising: at least one
component; an energy transfer unit remotely powering the component; a
wireless link is formed between the component and the portable hand held
unit; an identity of the component is transmitted over the wireless link;
a screen displays the identity of the component; the identity of the
component is selected on the screen; and the selected component emits a
stimulus.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the stimulus is audio or visual.
17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein an output power of the component
can be adjusted.
18. A method of notifying a visual monitoring system to follow a
component once the component is outside a cell comprising the steps of:
using a wireless monitoring system to verify the component is within the
cell; wirelessly identifying if the component is removed from the cell;
and notifying the visual monitoring system to follow the component
outside the cell.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: visually identifying the
component is placed in a cart.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising: using a energy transfer
unit to power up the component within a cart.
21. The method of claim 18, further comprising: using a second wireless
monitoring system to verify the component is within a cart.
22. The method of claim 18, further comprising: visually identifying the
component is being carried by a customer.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising: following the carried
component to a register.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Theft in stores increases the average product cost to consumers. To
get the costs under control, this invention proposes a mentoring system
that can help to reduce or prevent the inventory from lost or theft.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Theft is a serious concern in the consumer market place. Industry
loses billions per year on theft of merchandise. The thief during the
year 2008 amounted to $36 billion and is due to both the theft by the
customers and store employees, as well. Last year, thefts by employees of
U.S. retail merchandise accounted for $15.9 billion, or 44 percent of
theft losses at stores, more than shoplifting and vendor fraud combined.
Several embodiments of ways to control or reduce the thefts in the market
place is presented.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] Please note that the drawings shown in this specification may not
be drawn to scale and the relative dimensions of various elements in the
diagrams are depicted schematically and not necessary to scale.
[0004] FIG. 1a shows a local processor in wireless contact with components
and reference blocks within a shelf illustrating this inventive
technique.
[0005] FIG. 1b illustrates the different frequency bands used in each
shelf to minimize interference between adjacent local processor
illustrating this inventive technique with reference blocks.
[0006] FIG. 1c depicts the local processor in wireless contact with the
master processor and components where an output power based on distance
is restricted illustrating this inventive technique.
[0007] FIG. 1d shows the different frequency bands used in each shelf to
minimize interference between adjacent local processor illustrating this
inventive technique without reference blocks.
[0008] FIG. 2a shows an isle view of the store with shelves of products
and the carriage using this inventive technique.
[0009] FIG. 2b depicts another variation of the isle view of a store with
shelves of products and the carriage using this inventive technique.
[0010] FIG. 2c illustrates a side view of the carriage containing several
products in wireless contact with the system to provide a location using
this inventive technique.
[0011] FIG. 3 shows the inventive technique determining where the product
is located optically.
[0012] FIG. 4 depicts a top view of the isles of a store illustrating a
wireless connectivity between the master processor and the individual
stacks of shelves of this inventive technique.
[0013] FIG. 5 shows a top view of the isles of a store illustrating a
wireless connectivity between the master processor and a slave processor
that is wired to individual stacks of shelves illustrating this inventive
technique.
[0014] FIG. 6 shows a top view of the isles of a store illustrating a
wired connectivity between the master processor and all slave processors
that illustrating this inventive technique.
[0015] FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart for following components selected from
the shelf to either the register or restricted area.
[0016] FIG. 8 shows the three different sub-flowcharts embedded in the
flowchart of FIG. 7 and FIG. 9.
[0017] FIG. 9 depicts another flowchart for following components selected
from the shelf to either the register or restricted area.
[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates one of the power up sequence of this inventive
technique.
[0019] FIG. 11 depicts a handheld locator using the inventive technique.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] Packages or components can be monitored as they are transported
from one location to another. The monitoring is controlled by a master
processor and can be performed automatically. The system senses the
movement of a component, identifies the location of the component,
follows the component and determines if component has been purchased. If
the component has not been purchased, then an alarm is registered so
security can follow up on the status of the component.
[0021] This inventive technique utilizes ways to minimize power
dissipation within a cell, position cells of different spectrums of
energy in adjacent cells, minimize interference between cells, regulate
the size of these cells, determine when a component leaves the boundary
of the cell, follow component once it is outside of the cell. The cell
defines a volume of space, for example, a shelf that has a top, bottom,
sides, and back physical partitions is one possibility of defining the
volume that describes the cell. The cell dimensions can be adjusted in
part by varying the output power of a local processor which is associated
with a shelf.
[0022] Every package on a shelf contains a component. The component can be
attached, glued, placed inside, or be a part of the actual package. The
package contains the item that the customer desires to purchase. If every
package contains a component, the component becomes synonymous with the
package. Thus, following the component insures that the package is
followed. Thus, this specification will use the term component to imply
the package as well. The component and local processor are comprised of
electronics, antennas, power source and power storage and each can be
used to form communication links. Some of the electronics can be
incorporated into an integrated circuit. If the dimension of the antenna
exceeds the area of the integrated circuit, then the antenna can be
connected to the integrated circuit as a separate unit. One link is
formed between each of the components on a shelf and the local processor.
The discussions that follow will seek ways to identify the location of a
package (component), power the components, communicate with the component
and follow the component. These techniques are applicable to both the
employee and the customer.
[0023] FIG. 1a illustrates a top view 1-1 of a shelf that is partitioned
into two sections. The arrow 1-17 shows the front perspective provided in
FIG. 1b where the two sections are within the dashed rectangle 1-28. Back
to FIG. 1a, the sections are segregated by physical barriers; the lower
section is segregated from the upper section by the side 1-13. The sides
1-14 and 1-15 segregate these two sections from other sections. These two
sections also share the back walls or barrier 1-16.
[0024] The top local processor 1-2b communicates to components 1-5b
through 1-7b using the wireless links 1-9b through 1-11b. Each component,
although not shown, has an antenna, internal circuitry, memory, control,
as would be expected in one or more integrated circuits to enable
communications and help determine relative position, as well as,
performing any desired function that may be required. The same capability
holds for the local processor and any other type of processor that may be
discussed unless otherwise indicated. Each end of the link is coupled to
an antenna of a transceiver that receives/generates the communication
signal received from/to the link. Finally, although not shown, the local
processors eventually communicate with the master processor. The master
processor controls the overall operation of the system.
[0025] Two reference blocks 1-3b and 1-4b are wirelessly linked to the
local processor 1-2b via links 1-8b and 1-12b, respectively. The
reference blocks are used to set the "reference distance" from the
transceiver. The reference blocks can be stationary and firmly held in
place. If the reference blocks are stationary, a wired link can be used
to carry power and a portion of the non-wireless signals to operate and
control the circuits in the reference block. The reference block or
blocks are approximately placed at a distance from the transceiver where
the edge of the cell is desired. The reference blocks 1-3b and 1-4b
measure the power intensity of the signal being emitted from the local
processor 1-2b. Although two reference blocks have been illustrated, the
number of reference blocks can vary and will depend on the requirements
of the system. The links 1-8b and 1-12b relay a signal from the local
processor to each of the reference block and back to the local processor.
As this is occurring, the output power level of the transceiver in the
local processor 1-2b is decreased until an acceptable bit error rate
(BER) is achieved at the given distance at where the first reference
block 1-3b is placed. This adjustment is also made between the
transceiver in the local processor 1-2b and the second reference block
1-4b.
[0026] When an acceptable bit error rate is achieved, the two output power
levels of the transceiver in the local processor are stored into a
database. The maximum of the two power level values is noted and is
called the "reference output power level." The local processor is set to
output the "reference output power level" for that cell. The transceiver
will provide reliable communication up to the bound 1-18b.
[0027] The bottom local processor 1-2a communicates to components 1-5a
through 1-7a using the wireless links 1-9a through 1-11a. Two reference
blocks 1-3a and 1-4a are wirelessly linked to the local processor via
links 1-8a and 1-11a, respectively. The reference blocks are used to set
the "reference distance" from the transceiver. The reference blocks 1-3a
and 1-4a measure the power intensity of the signal being emitted from the
local processor 1-2a. The links 1-8a and 1-12a relay a signal from the
local processor to each of the reference block and back to the local
processor. As this is occurring, the output power level of the
transceiver in the local processor 1-2a is decreased until an acceptable
bit error rate (BER) is achieved at the given distance at where the first
reference block 1-3a is placed. This adjustment is also made between the
transceiver in the local processor 1-2a and the second reference block
1-4a.
[0028] An acceptable BER will vary depending on the complexity of the
system, noise in the system, interference, bit rate, attenuation,
multipath fading, etc. Forward Error Correction (FEC) techniques and
channel coding can be used to improve bit rate. When an acceptable bit
error rate is achieved, the two output power levels of the transceiver in
the local processor are stored into a database. The local processor 1-2a
is set to output them maximum of the two values as the "reference output
power level" for that cell. The transceiver will provide reliable
communication up to the bound 1-18a.
[0029] Note that the frequency of the carrier is different for the two
cells. The local processor 1-2b is operating at f.sub.4, while the local
processor 1-2a is operating at f.sub.3. This avoids interference between
the two cells if the radiation from an antenna from one cell spills into
an adjacent cell since the carrier frequencies are different.
[0030] This is further depicted in one possible carrier frequency
assignment illustrated in FIG. 1b. Note that the local processor 1-2b
within the dashed rectangle 1-28 operates at f.sub.4 while all adjacent
cells operate at a different carrier frequency. The local processor 1-2a
(adjacent to the left) operates at f.sub.3, the local processor (not
labeled and adjacent to the right) operates at f.sub.3. The cell above
and below the local processor 1-2b operate at the carrier frequency of
f.sub.2. The reference blocks 1-24b through 1-27b are depicted for these
two cells. All four diagonal cells operate at f.sub.1. The reference
blocks 1-24a through 1-27a are illustrated for half of these cells. The
shelves in FIG. 1b typically stock packages (or components), but have not
been included to simply the diagram.
[0031] During power-up of each the components 1-5a through 1-7a and 1-5b
through 1-7b for the first time, their output power level is reduced to
the "reference output power level" value for that cell by attenuating the
output signal of the component. Then, the link is checked by measuring
the BER for the link in the path from the component to the local
processor. This can be done when the shelves are initially stocked with
new products. Positive or negative adjustments to the output power level
can be made to achieve reliable BER measurements between all components
in a cell to their corresponding local processor. This is called the
"reference component output power level." The reference component output
power level is also stored in an on-chip memory (where the memory is
preferably a non-volatile memory) and in addition can be stored in the
local and master processor's memory and the database. The component's
characteristics; type of component, manufacturer, serial number,
component name, date of manufacture, etc. are stored in the on-chip
memory for access by the local or master processor. The local processor
selects the maximum of the "reference component output power level" and
programs all components in that cell to output the maximum level.
[0032] In the lower cell of FIG. 1a, the two reference blocks, for example
1-3a and 1-3b, were used to define a boundary between the shelf and the
isle. Once the component 1-6a has been moved to a location past the
boundary 1-18a, the communication link 1-10a has been weaken to the point
that either the local processor or the component 1-6a will eventually not
recognize the existence of the other any longer. The local processor then
informs a master processor of the missing component 1-6a. The master
processor can now control monitoring the location of this component using
a secondary monitoring system once the component is outside of its cell.
[0033] Depending on the size of the shelf, the number of reference blocks
per shelf can be more or less than two. In some cases, the walls: the
shelf, partition or back barrier between common shelves or supports can
be formed of non-metallic material to extend the range of the
transceivers in the local processor or components. Note that the
modularity of the shelves in FIG. 1b can leads to variety of different
sized cells. Simply by removing a side partition, or a barrier partition,
the volume of the cell can be varied.
[0034] FIG. 1c depicts a local processor 1-42b with several components
1-29b through 1-33b communicating to the local processor 1-42b using
links 1-34b through 1-28b. In this case, each component is set to one of
a number of pre-defined output power levels (1-43a through 1-45z). From
studies conducted on shelves, power levels are determined (see bottom of
FIG. 1c) as a function of distance that provide acceptable BER within the
volume of a cell but drops rapidly as the boundary 1-40 (see top of FIG.
1c) surrounding the cell is crossed. Once this database has been
compiled, the components can be programmed with a specified output power
level after they are placed on a shelf. The output power level of the
transceiver in the local processor that couples to the links 1-34b
through 1-38b is adjusted to relay a signal from the local processor to
each of the components. The pre-programmed output power level of the
return link has already been set as mentioned earlier. As this is
occurring, the power level of the transceiver in the local processor is
minimized until an acceptable bit error bit rate is achieved for the
distance between the local processor and each of the components. The
maximum of all the minimum values is selected and the transceiver in the
local processor is set to this new maximum reference output power value.
Once a component passes barrier 1-40 a signal is sent to the master
processor to hand off to another monitoring system.
[0035] FIG. 1c also indicates the front view 1-39 perspective that will be
shown in FIG. 1d. In FIG. 1d, the front view 1-46 of the shelves is
illustrated. The local processor 1-42b is within the dashed rectangle
1-56. Note that in all adjacent shelves of shelf 1-55, 1-47 through 1-54
use a different carrier frequency for operation.
[0036] FIG. 2a depicts a cross-sectional view 2-1 of a store defining the
width 2-29 of an isle and showing the shelves that face the second isle
to the left. These isles go into the page. One isle is formed between the
locations of the two vertical supports 2-27 and 2-28 and the shelves
2-14a to 2-14c and 2-16a to 2-16c that are placed on the supports. Note
that there are three layers of shelves, although the number of layers
could be any number. To simplify the description, many parts on the upper
shelf ends the identifiers with an "a", similar parts on the middle shelf
end with "b" and those on the lowest shelf end in "c."
[0037] The upper set of shelves 2-12a, 2-14a and 2-16a has at least one
stack of packages 2-20a, 2-21a and 2-22a on them, respectively.
[0038] Inside the stack of packages 2-20a, there two packages where the
first package has component 2-21 and the second package has component
2-22. The components 2-21 and 2-22 communicate to the antenna 2-8a of the
local processor using one of the links 2-10a. The component can be placed
inside or mounted on the outside of the package. A reference block 2-13a
is shown at the far end of the shelf 2-12a. The components can have a
transceiver that can receive/transmit information from/to the local
processor as mentioned earlier. In addition, all the local processors
within a stack of shelves can be coupled to an antenna 2-4 of the stack
processor that in turn communicates with the antenna 2-3 of the master
processor 2-2 via the link 2-7. The antenna 2-5 of the stack processor
communicates with the antenna 2-3 of the master processor 2-2 via the
link 2-6.
[0039] Inside the stack of packages 2-21a, there two packages where the
first package has component 2-23 and the second package has component
2-24. The components 2-23 and 2-24 communicate to the antenna 2-9a of the
local processor using one of the links 2-11a. A reference block 2-15a is
shown at the far end of the shelf 2-14a.
[0040] Inside the stack of packages 2-22a, there two packages where the
first package has component 2-25 and the second package has component
2-26. The components 2-25 and 2-26 communicate to the antenna 2-19a of
the local processor using one of the links 2-18a. One of the reference
blocks 2-17a is shown at the far end of the shelf 2-16a.
[0041] Similar packages on the middle and lower shelves have endings with
"b" and "c", as pointed out earlier. For instance, the stack of packages
2-22b is located on the middle shelf. While the energy wave 2-10b in the
far left middle shelf applies energy to the components that are in the
stack of packages 2-20b. The "energy transfer unit" could use inductive,
wireless or optical means to power up the components. Each of the
components can use a capacitor to store up charge during this energy
transfer. The energy transfer provides immediate energy availability
while the stored charge can be used by the component to perform some
function.
[0042] On the lowest shelf, the reference block 2-12a is shown on the
bottom far left. The antenna 2-9c of the local processor uses links 2-11c
to communicate with each of the components in the stack of packages
2-21c. Note that the link 2-11c comprises all of the links from all of
the components that are within the volume assigned to that cell.
Meanwhile, the energy wave 2-18c charges up the components in its
assigned volume. The reference block 2-17c can be used to determine when
one of the packages is removed since each package has a component.
[0043] FIG. 2a also illustrates a customer (shopper, client, etc.) 2-30
pushing a cart 2-31 down the isle. A box 2-32 is permanently mounted to
the cart and can be used to communicate directly with the master
processor 2-2 using link 2-33.
[0044] FIG. 2b illustrates a side view 2-34 of shelves and a portion of
the isle. The cart 2-31 communicates with the reference blocks 2-15b and
2-15c via box 2-32 using wireless link 2-37a and 2-37c. The reference
blocks can also have a separate transceiver embedded to receive these
wireless signals from a cart, if desired. Once received, the signals are
transferred via the hardwired paths 2-35 and 2-36 to the stack processor
that is coupled to antenna 2-4. The signals are then sent to the master
processor.
[0045] A side view 2-38 of the cart 2-31 as shown in FIG. 2c. The basket
of the cart contains three packages 2-41c, 2-43b and 2-45a each with a
component 2-42c, 2-44b and 2-46a, respectively. The components
communicated wirelessly with the antenna 2-49 of the cart processor using
links 2-47. At least one reference block 2-40 is attached to the carriage
of the cart. In addition, an RF energy wave 2-48 is shown which energizes
the components wirelessly. The frequencies of the links 2-47 and those of
2-48 can be in different frequency bands if operate simultaneously.
Otherwise, the links can operate in a daisy chain pattern, each taking a
portion of time in a time division system, to either energize or
communicate with the components in the basket of the cart 2-31. In
addition, other communication techniques can be used to send the
information between all links such as TDMA, FDMA, CDMA, OFDM, UWB, WiFi,
etc. The box 2-32 also contains another antenna 2-50 that communicates
with the master processor 2-2 using link 2-33 as mentioned earlier. The
reference block 2-51 contains the cart processor that interfaces with the
stack or master processor.
[0046] The stack processor communicates to the master processor 2-22 using
the link 2-7. The link 2-7 is illustrated as a wireless channel, but in
some case as will be shown later, a wired channel could be used. The
master processor has access to a database that stores data concerning the
details of the network and information concerning the inventory of the
components and the component's characteristics (location of component,
type of component, manufacturer, serial number, component name, date of
manufacture, etc.).
[0047] A visual link 3-4 is illustrated in the cross sectional view 3-1 of
the isle given in FIG. 3. The customer 2-30 selected the package 3-2 with
the component 3-3. The positioning of the component 3-3 is beyond the
range of the reference block 2-15b and the link 2-11b contains a lack of
response 3-5 from the antenna 3-6 of the local processor to the component
3-3 or vice versa. This lack of response 3-5 is sensed by the local
processor associated with antenna 3-6. This lack of response is
transmitted to the stack processor coupled to antenna 2-4. The stack
processor associated with antenna 2-4 of the local processor sends the
response to the master process 2-2 via antenna 2-3 of the master
processor.
[0048] Once the master processor realizes that the package 3-2 is off the
shelf, the master processor sends the visual monitoring system 3-10 all
the information regarding the package 3-2. This information will be read
from the database corresponding to the component 3-3 attached to the
package 3-2, that includes the current coordinates (isle, shelf position,
shelf layer) of the package 3-2 within the store. Additional details can
also be provided in the database; the cost, when package placed there,
weight of package, size of package, etc.
[0049] The visual monitoring system 3-10 then issues instructions to
cameras 3-7 through 3-9 that are in the vicinity of the package 3-4.
These cameras then point to the location that was received from the
master processors to help locate the package 3-2. Once the package is
visually identified, the cameras can time share the location of this
package along with other packages that have been or are being selected by
other customers in the store. The location is then sent to the master
processor 2-2. After the package 3-2 is placed in the cart 2-31, the
visual monitoring system 3-10 issues instructions to the cameras to
follow either the package 3-2 or the cart 2-31 as the customer pushes the
cart in the store.
[0050] Note that the links 2-19a, 2-19b and 2-19c are inactivated or
powered down to save power. This occurs since the customer was located by
the visual monitoring system on the left side of the isle. Since the
packages on the right side of the isle are not immediately accessible to
the customer (their arms are not that long), there is no need to power up
the components on the shelves 2-16a through 2-16c. This can make
substantial saving in power costs since power does not have to be applied
to all shelves at all times. The powering of the components can match the
needs of the flow of customers through the store yet minimizing overall
energy usage. As more of the electronics become powered down, the cost
saving can be substantial.
[0051] Note, that all of the electronic circuit blocks that would be used
to carry and insure the integrity of the signal between the components
and the master processor are not illustrated, for simplicity of
description. For instance, antenna 2-4 or 2-5 of the stack processors do
not show any electronic circuits coupled to the antenna. Yet, those
skilled in the art would know that transceivers, power supplies,
interconnects, microcontrollers, DSP's (Digital Signal Processors),
Processors, etc. would be necessary to insure a reliable communication
link with a low bit error rate.
[0052] FIG. 4 depicts a top view 4-1 of FIG. 3 showing two isles. The
customer 2-30 and cart 2-31 are located in the left isle. The cell 4-3
contains the antenna 2-5 of the local processor while the cell 4-4
contains the antenna 2-4 of the local processor. Both processors were
indicated during the discussions of FIG. 3. A customer 4-11 is pushing a
cart 4-10 in the right isle. The master processor 2-2 is coupled to the
antenna 2-3 of the master processor. The antenna 2-3 then transfers
signals to/from the stack processor 2-5 using link 2-7, as was also shown
in FIG. 3. A stack processor would be connected to antenna 2-4, similarly
another stack processor would be connected to antenna 2-5 of the local
processor. The stack processor interfaces with all the local processors
within the underlying shelves of that stack. The stack processors are at
the top stack of the shelves and transfer data between the local
processors within that stack and the master processor. The antenna 2-4 of
the stack processor uses link 2-7 while antenna 2-5 of the stack
processor uses link 4-2d. Some later examples show ways to eliminate one
of these stack processors in the sequence of transfers between
processors. The stack processor 2-5 (in the center row of shelves) then
sends the signal to the local processor (not show) which then transfers
the signal to/from the selected component 4-16 using link 4-17. The
master processor then communicates with all of the remaining stack
processors that are within its range to see if there are any additional
changes to the other shelves. A few, but not all, of these links 4-2a to
4-2e to the stack processors are depicted.
[0053] The local processor has a range that extends to about the edge of
the rectangles 4-3 or 4-4. The rectangle 4-4 sweeps out a volume when
moved into the page. The depth of this volume is equal to the height of
the shelf. This volume is equal to a single isle cell. In the rectangle
4-3, however, one of these shelves can be accessed by a customer in the
left isle, while the other shelf can be accessed by a customer in the
right isle. A back or barrier partition that can separate the contents
between these two shelves can be removed to effectively double the volume
of a single isle cell. The rectangle 4-3 sweeps out a volume when moved
into the page. The depth of this volume is equal to the height of the
shelf. This volume is equal to a two single isle cells, since the barrier
between these cells has been removed.
[0054] The local processor (not shown), which is coupled to the stack
processor 2-5, also needs to communicate with all of the components
located within its swept out volume or cell. The volume has been
described as having a shape of a rectangular solid, but in reality the
shape would be more spherical in nature for a single antenna. With a
mechanical or electrically steerable antenna, the volume may be able to
approach more of a rectangular solid shape. To help determine the edges
of the cell defined by the rectangle 4-3, reference blocks 4-6a and 4-6b
are shown on only one side to simply the complexity of the diagram
although ideally at least one additional reference block should be
located on the left side of the rectangle 4-3.
[0055] If the component 4-18 within the cell 4-3 is moved beyond the
boundaries of the cell, the communication link between the local
processor and the component degrades and loses contact. This is how the
system knew that the component at the empty location 4-8 of cell 4-3 was
missing. This component is being monitored by one of the inventive
techniques illustrated earlier. The missing component 4-9 that was in the
empty location 4-8 is located in the cart 4-10 being pushed by customer
4-11.
[0056] A second rectangle 4-6 (dotted and below rectangle 4-3) highlights
the location of a second cell with a second stack processor. The dotted
line help distinguish the different cells. Each cell can have a different
carrier frequency to form the communication links between the components
located within a cell and a local processor. Adjacent cells use different
frequency bandwidth to insure less interference from neighboring cells.
The rectangles 4-6, 4-7 and 4-19 points out the location of a more cells
with their stack processor.
[0057] An empty location 4-12 in the cell at the lower left of FIG. 4 was
once occupied by component 4-13. The component was removed by the
customer 2-30 pushing cart 2-31 carrying the component 4-13 taken from
the empty location 4-12.
[0058] A local processor (not shown) is in contact with the antenna 4-14
of stack processor and is in a dotted rectangle in the leftmost column.
The local processor communicates with the components using link 4-15. The
reference blocks 4-5c and 4-5d for the local processor are illustrated at
the corners of the cell nearest the isle where customers pass.
[0059] FIG. 5 shows a different architecture 5-1 for transferring the data
from the components to the master processor 2-2. The stack processors
have been removed and the local processors are wired together in each row
of shelves comprising an isle. For example, the slave processor 5-5 is
wired to the local processors in the left column of shelves. This slave
wirelessly sends data to the master processor 2-2 using the link 5-2. The
slave processor 5-6, which communicates to the master processor using
link 5-3, is wired to all of the local processors in the center column.
One of the local processors 5-8 communicates to the components using a
wireless link 5-9. The last slave processor 5-7 communicates to the
master processor using link 5-4 and is wired to all of the local
processors in the right column. The dotted outlines of the slave
processors indicates different frequency bands can be used to avoid
interference. Note that only one layer of shelves are illustrated in the
top view. If additional layers of shelves are used, they can be located
below this shelf.
[0060] FIG. 6 depicts another architecture 6-1 where the master processor
2-2 is wired to all local processor using interconnect 6-2, 6-3 and 6-4.
The slave processors have been eliminated. The components on the shelves
are still wirelessly coupled to their local processor. For example, see
local processor 5-8 using wireless link 5-9 to communicate to one of the
components.
[0061] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart 7-1 that identifies when the
components are removed from a shelf and tracks these components placed in
a cart. After start 7-2 and through the joiner 7-3, the components in the
cell are checked against a database 7-4. In 7-5, a decision is made to
determine if the components match the database. If so, move to joiner
7-3, otherwise move to the block to determine the missing component 7-6.
Once the component is identified, the master system request visual
monitoring 7-7 to begin.
[0062] The next instruction is in the sequence A-B represented by 7-8 and
7-9 which is depicted in flowchart 8-1 shown in FIG. 8. After leaving A
7-8, block 8-2 indicates that information from the master processor
regarding the physical location corresponding to the component that was
removed is send to the visual system being triggered by the removal of
the component from the shelf. The network between the master and local
processor for a particular store is a relatively permanent network.
Having a permanent network has benefits since the database of each local
processor can be tied to a coordinate system based on a building's
blueprint overlaying the local processor placement. The master processor
asks for details regarding the missing component. Then the local
processor indicates its geographical store based location based on the
blueprints providing the isle, the shelf, the level of the shelf, etc.
[0063] As an alternative, a second positioning technique known as GPS
(Global Positioning Satellite) can also be used to identify the locations
of the local processors. Since the local processors are part of a
permanent network as pointed out earlier, the local processor can be
powered by an actual power supply that plugs into a major power source
(the power grid, backup generators, etc.). The GPS circuits can provide
geographical global based location that could be mapped onto a blueprint
of the store or used directly. This would allow easy changes to the
store's appearance yet maintain the system running.
[0064] The GPS system can be placed into each component allowing the
position of each component to be easily determined. A certain amount of
power would be required to energize the component circuits for GPS. An
energy transfer unit can be used to provide the components with energy
but only at pre-determined locations. The cart can provide one location
where the component can be energized and read, another is at the
register.
[0065] Once block 8-2 sends the location to the component to the visual
system being triggered by the removal of the component from the shelf.
The visual system then directs for the capture of at least one image of
the component as in block 8-3. The image is scanned for the component or
package, since now the visual system knows the details of the package
size from the database. The shape can be determined from these dimensions
and the component can be identified by both its shape and position 8-3a.
The next step is B 7-9 that moves back to the flowchart in FIG. 7.
[0066] In block 7-10, the visual system monitors that the component (or
package) as the package leaves the shelf. Then, the visual system
determines if the component has been placed into the cart 7-11. If the
component is not placed in the cart, move to E 7-12 where the flowchart
8-8 is given in FIG. 8, otherwise move to the sequence C-D represented by
7-13 and 7-14 depicted in the flowchart 8-4 in FIG. 8. Starting at C
7-13, the identity of the cart is probed, if a number is already assigned
then do nothing. Otherwise, assign a random number to the cart 8-5. As
each new component is placed in the cart, the master processor updates
the database for that cart as in block 8-6. One way of performing the
update is by using the inventive technique illustrated in FIG. 2b where
the cart communicates wirelessly with the store's network via a
stationary terminal such as the reference block which is typically
permanently mounted to the shelves. This allows the operation of updating
the database in the master processor for the cart as in block 8-6.
Finally, in block 8-7, each cart is followed visually. The cart can be
monitored by using visual sightings (wireless communications is also
possible as shown later). Then move to D 7-14 back in FIG. 7.
[0067] The next step is to pass the joiner 7-15 and check the cart's
position 7-16. Determine if the cart is in the register area 7-17. If the
cart is not in the register area, determine if the cart is in a
restricted area 7-18. The restricted area can be a bathroom, the back
employee door, the store entrance/exit (if package has not purchased), or
tucked into the perpetrator's clothes. If the cart is in the restricted
area, then sound off the alarm 7-23, and follow up on the whereabouts of
the component. Otherwise, go to the joiner 7-15.
[0068] If the cart is in the register area 7-17, then the cashier will
ring up the costs 7-19. In addition, the master system calculates the
cost based on the database contents of the cart 7-20. The master
processor compares the calculated and the rung up costs 7-21. If they do
not match, sound the alarm 7-23. Otherwise, if they match, the job is
finished 7-22 and then terminated.
[0069] In FIG. 7, if the component was not visually placed into the cart
7-11, then the package is being carried by the customer and control then
moves to E 7-12 given in FIG. 7 and in FIG. 8 as flowchart 8-8. This
flowchart 8-8 is very similar to the last part of FIG. 7 starting from
the joiner 7-15. The exception being that the block 7-16 which checks the
cart's position has been replaced by the block 8-9 that checks the
component's position. Block 8-9 checks the component's position visually
to determine if the component is at the register area 7-17. If the
component is not in the register area, determine if the component is in a
restricted area 7-18. If the component is in the restricted area, then
sound off the alarm 7-23, otherwise go to the joiner 7-12.
[0070] If the component is in the register area, then the cashier will
ring up the costs 7-19. In addition, the master system calculates the
cost of the database contents of all carried components brought to the
register 7-20. The master processor compares the calculated and the rung
up costs 7-21. If they do not match, sound the alarm 7-23. Otherwise, if
they match, the job is finished 7-22 and then terminated.
[0071] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart 9-1 for a wireless tracking system
being used for the cart and optically tracking carried components 9-2 by
customer. FIG. 9 identifies removed components placed in a cart and
wirelessly follows the cart or visually tracks the components carried by
the customer. After start 7-2 and through the joiner 7-3, the components
in the cell are checked against a database 7-4. In 7-5, a decision is
made to determine if the results match the database. If so, move to
joiner 7-3, otherwise move to the block to determine the missing
component 7-6. Once the component is identified, the master system
updates its database and waits till the cart wirelessly responds that the
component has been placed in the cart 7-11.
[0072] After a certain delay, the visual system is activated to determine
where the component currently is located and sends the location of the
component to the visual system after a certain delay being triggered by
the removal of the component from the shelf. If the component is not
placed in the cart and is being carried, continue to view the component
visually 9-2 then move to E 7-12 which corresponds to the flowchart 8-8
in FIG. 8. The visual system then directs for the capture of at least one
image of the component. The image is scanned for the component, since now
the visual system knows the details of the package size from the
database. The shape can be determined from these dimensions and the
component can be identified by both its shape and followed.
[0073] On the other hand, if the component is placed in the cart, the
master processor interfaces with the cart processor and makes a request
determine cart location 9-3. Then the master processor wirelessly updates
the contents of the cart to database 9-4. The network between the master
and local processor for a particular store is relatively permanent
network. Having a permanent network has benefits since the location of
each local processor can be tied to a coordinate system based on a
building's blueprint overlaying the local processor placement or GPS
signals can be used. When the master processor asks for details regarding
the missing component another data point given would be extracted from
the local processor indicating its geographical store based location or
geographic global based location.
[0074] The positioning technique known as GPS (Global Positioning
Satellite) can also be used to identify the local processor or the
location of the cart. A GPS can be included with the local processor to
provide the position. Since the local processors are part of a permanent
network as pointed out earlier, the local processor can be powered by an
actual power supply that plugs into a major power source (the power grid,
backup generators, etc.). Thus, the GPS circuits, being powered, can
provide geographical world based location that could be mapped onto a
blueprint of the store.
[0075] The GPS can be placed into each component and the position of each
component can be determined easily. A certain amount of power would be
required to energize the circuits for GPS. An energy transfer unit can be
used to provide the components with energy but only at pre-determined
locations. The cart provides one location where the component can be
energized and read, another is at the register.
[0076] This flowchart in FIG. 9 starting from the joiner 7-15 is
explained. The reference block 9-5 wirelessly checks the cart's position.
Next, the cart's position is checked wirelessly to determine if the cart
is at the register area 7-17. If the cart is not in the register area,
determine if the cart is in a restricted area 7-18. If the cart is in the
restricted area, then sound off the alarm 7-23, otherwise go to the
joiner 7-15.
[0077] If the cart is in the register area, then the cashier will ring up
the costs 7-19. In addition, the master system transfers the calculated
cost based on the database contents of the components brought to the
register 7-20. A match between the calculated and the rung up costs are
compared 7-21. If they do not match, sound the alarm 7-23. Otherwise, if
they match, the job is completed and then terminated.
[0078] FIG. 10 depicts the method 10-1 of setting up the reference power
setting of the reference block in a cell. Also, a power up procedure is
applied to the components on the shelf. The flowchart starts with the
setup 10-2 moves to extracting from the database the initial setting of
the reference block 10-3. The value of reference power setting is stored
in the memory of all reference blocks 10-5. After the joiner 10-6, the
system determines if there is interference 10-8. If there is, go to 10-7
and decrease the value stored in memory to reduce the output power of the
transceiver and try again. When the interference in communicating to all
of the reference blocks is eliminated, apply the values stored in memory
to each of the reference blocks. Then move to the joiner 10-6. Repeat the
interference 10-8 test, if there is no interference move to the sequence
F 10-9 to G 10-10. This sequence is illustrated in the flowchart 10-15
shown on the right.
[0079] Typically, the database can be searched to find the power up
details. However, the flowchart 10-15 can be used to determine how the
components are powered on the shelf 10-16. If the power is conductively
transferred 10-17, past through joiners 10-21 and 10-23 and set the
components to receive the power 10-24. Then go to G 10-10. If the
conductive test 10-17 fails, then see if inductive powering is used
10-18, if not determine if RF 10-19 provides the source of power.
Otherwise light 10-20, or laser beams, can be applied to the component's
solar cell to convert the light into electricity. If the light test
fails, notify the master processor and go to block 10-4 or done.
[0080] If inductive powering is used, then continue to 10-24 via 10-21 and
10-23. Similarly, if RF is used, move to 10-24 through 10-22 and 10-23.
If light is used, move to 10-24 through 10-22 and 10-23. If the
excitation to energize the components functions, a communication signal
will be received by the local processor. Once the type of power
excitation is determined and applied, move to G 10-10. From G, move to
the joiner 10-11.
[0081] Now that the components are powered up, all reference blocks should
be able to sense the presence of the components in their cell. In fact,
some may exceed the boundary into an adjoining cell, but different
carrier frequency of (f.sub.1, f.sub.2, f.sub.3 . . . ) can be used to
partition the space within the store into cells as pointed out earlier.
For example, one cell can have carrier frequencies of f.sub.1 and the
adjacent cells can have a carrier frequency of f.sub.2.
[0082] After the joiner 10-11, the components are checked against a
database 10-12 to see if all components are accounted for. If not 10-13,
identify the error 10-14 and report it to the master processor and return
to joiner 10-11. If everything matches, the system moves to done 10-4.
[0083] Another inventive use 11-1 is given in FIG. 11. A handheld unit
11-3 with a display 11-4 indicating that "Several items are within range"
is facing a user 11-2 along the sightline 11-15. The handheld unit
contains all the electrical parts, integrated circuits, display,
processors, antennas, display screens, entry pads, etc, as would be
expected by any person skilled in the art in constructing a hand held
unit. The display 11-4 can also provide the programmed names of the
components. The system 11-16 applies an energy transfer unit to an
antenna 11-18 that sends the energy to the components 11-6 through 11-9
via the link 11-17. The energy from the energy transfer unit is picked up
and converted into electrical energy. Meanwhile, the components
communicate with the handheld unit 11-3 using the antenna 11-5 and the
links 11-10 through 11-13.
[0084] In this inventive technique, a portable energy transfer unit 11-16
is used to activate the components within range of the charging antenna
11-18 and also within the range of the receiving antenna 11-5 of the hand
held unit 11-3. The energy transfer unit 11-16 can potentially be
embedded into the hand held unit 11-3. One use of this inventive
technique is to find possessions that contain a component in an area. By
clicking on the item shown on the screen, a bullet list appears that
offers the user a choice of options. One option is to locate the
component by causing the component to emit a stimulus. The stimulus can
be an audio or visual sign to help locate the unit quicker. For instance,
the component can emit a beeping sound. Also, another option is to
control the output power of the component. The output power of the
component can be adjusted after clicking on it.
[0085] The portable hand held unit 11-3 can be used as a game. One player
can spread out the components in a certain pattern in an area and then
get the second player to follow a path through a maze. The maze can be
along the path where the components have the largest output power
signatures, for example.
[0086] A second inventive technique is to include the reference block
11-14 and the interconnect 11-19. A reference block 11-14 sets the size
or volume of the cell. A battery pack can be used to power the reference
but a hard wire 11-19 can be used to provide system power from the
handheld 11-3.
[0087] Finally, it is understood that the above description are only
illustrative of the principles of the current invention. It is understood
that the various embodiments of the invention, although different, are
not mutually exclusive. In accordance with these principles, those
skilled in the art may devise numerous modifications without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention. The techniques presented here
to monitor and control theft can be used and applied to customers and
employees, alike. In some cases, the reference blocks can be moved and
positioned on the fly to adjust the reference distance. Once the volume
of the cell is determined, the distances from the transceivers to the
edge of the cell can be determined. The processor comprises a CPU
(Central Processing Unit), microprocessor, DSP, Network processor, a
front end processor, or a co-processor. All of the supporting elements to
operate these processors (memory, disks, monitors, keyboards, etc)
although not necessarily shown are know by those skilled in the art for
the operation of the entire system. Another possibility of monitoring a
shelf is to time share the same frequency between a certain number of
cells; however, each of these cells will be enabled for a fraction of the
time. Otherwise, the links can operate in a daisy chain pattern, each
taking a portion of time in a time division system, to either energize or
communicate with the components in each cell. In addition, other
communication techniques can be used to send the information between all
links such as TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), FDMA (Frequency
Division Multiple Access), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), OFDM
(Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing), UWB (Ultra Wide Band),
WiFi, etc. Another is that the shelves and supports can be made of a
non-magnetic material. Plastic shelves could be one material that could
non-magnetic but rigid. This could allow less transceivers to be employed
in an isle since the cell or volume surrounding the transceiver is not
bounded by a metallic shield. The communication link between the
components and the master processor can be created so that the master
processor can bypass any processors in the chain and communicate directly
with the component. Also, the hardwired system portions can be
substituted with a wirelessly connected portion or vice versa. In some
cases, the antenna that is used for communications can also be used as an
RF source to power up the components with energy. The store can be
replaced with a warehouse to perform the same functions. The customer can
also be a warehouse employee.
* * * * *
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