相关申请的交叉引用Cross-references to related applications
本申请要求于2021年1月11日提交的美国临时专利申请号63/135,963和于2021年2月4日提交的美国临时专利申请号63/145,735的优先权的权益，这些申请各自通过援引以其全部内容结合于此。This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/135,963, filed on January 11, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/145,735, filed on February 4, 2021, each of which is incorporated by reference. Its entire content is incorporated here.
技术领域Technical field
所公开的实施方案总体上涉及用于与产品相关联的无线识别标签的系统和方法以及包括无线识别标签的电子安全系统。The disclosed embodiments generally relate to systems and methods for wireless identification tags associated with products and electronic security systems including wireless identification tags.
背景技术Background technique
通过网络传输数据的能力提供了许多机会，使各种电子设备能够与其他设备和网络连接、执行越来越自主的操作、并为用户提供交互式体验。然而，用于提供数字通信的常规系统和方法可能使用一定量的硬件、能量消耗、成本和其他技术限制，这些限制可能阻止了这些常规系统和方法在某些产品、系统和行业中实现。进一步地，存在大量与数据传输相关的安全和隐私问题，这些问题可能使得这种技术的实现在某些领域不切实际。The ability to transmit data over a network provides many opportunities to enable a variety of electronic devices to connect with other devices and networks, perform increasingly autonomous operations, and provide interactive experiences for users. However, conventional systems and methods for providing digital communications may use certain amounts of hardware, energy consumption, cost and other technical limitations that may prevent these conventional systems and methods from being implemented in certain products, systems and industries. Further, there are numerous security and privacy issues associated with data transmission that may make the implementation of this technology impractical in some areas.
因此，需要成本高效且非常规的方法，其高效、有效且安全地实现各种产品的数字化自我表示和/或这些产品的管理。Therefore, there is a need for cost-effective and unconventional methods that enable the digital self-representation of various products and/or the management of these products efficiently, effectively and securely.
发明内容Contents of the invention
根据本公开文本的实施方案提供了总体涉及用于与产品相关联的无线识别标签的系统和方法。所公开的系统和方法可以使用常规硬件和软件以及专用硬件和软件(例如专门为执行与所公开的方法步骤相关联的功能而构造和/或编程的机器)的组合来实现。与其他公开的实施方案一致，非暂时性计算机可读存储介质可以存储程序指令，所述程序指令可由至少一个处理设备执行并执行本文描述的任何步骤和/或方法。Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure provide systems and methods generally related to wireless identification tags associated with products. The disclosed systems and methods may be implemented using a combination of conventional hardware and software as well as special purpose hardware and software (eg, machines specifically constructed and/or programmed to perform the functions associated with the steps of the disclosed methods). Consistent with other disclosed embodiments, non-transitory computer-readable storage media may store program instructions executable by at least one processing device and perform any of the steps and/or methods described herein.
与所公开的实施方案一致，公开了用于提供具有相关联的无线传输标签的产品的场所的电子安全系统的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个接收器，所述至少一个接收器被配置成从所述无线传输标签接收传输。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个处理器，所述处理器被配置成：从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签的特定标签ID，所述特定标签与用于从所述场所预期购买的特定产品相关联；访问数据结构，所述数据结构包含与所述场所中的多个产品相关联的多个标签ID；在所述数据结构中对所述特定标签ID执行查找，由此识别所述特定产品；发起电子购买交易，以针对所述特定产品的电子购买将与所述预期购买者相关联的账户记入借方；并且在所述特定产品的所述电子购买之后，当所述至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于所述EAS门的所述特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for providing an electronic security system for a location of products with associated wireless transmission tags. Embodiments may include at least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door. Embodiments may further include at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the wireless transmitting tag. Embodiments may further include at least one processor configured to receive, from a device operated by a prospective purchaser, a specific tag ID for a specific tag associated with a specific product intended to be purchased from the venue. associated; accessing a data structure containing a plurality of tag IDs associated with a plurality of products in the venue; performing a lookup in the data structure for the particular tag ID, thereby identifying the particular product; initiating an electronic purchase transaction to debit an account associated with the intended purchaser for the electronic purchase of the specific product; and upon the electronic purchase of the specific product, when the at least one recipient disables the ability to initiate an alarm when the transmitter receives a transmission from the specific tag in proximity to the EAS gate.
与附加公开的实施方案一致，还公开了用于库存控制操作的电子安全系统的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括接收来自多个无线传输标签的传输。实施方案可以进一步包括从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签的特定标签ID，所述特定标签与用于从场所预期购买的特定产品相关联。实施方案可以进一步包括访问数据结构，所述数据结构包含与所述场所中的多个产品相关联的多个标签ID。实施方案可以进一步包括在所述数据结构中对所述特定标签ID执行查找，由此识别所述特定产品。实施方案可以进一步包括发起电子购买交易，以针对所述特定产品的电子购买将与所述预期购买者相关联的账户记入借方。实施方案可以进一步包括在所述特定产品的所述电子购买之后，当从接近于与所述场所相关联的电子物品监视(EAS)门的所述特定标签接收到传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the additional disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for electronic security systems for inventory control operations are also disclosed. Embodiments may include receiving transmissions from multiple wireless transmitting tags. Embodiments may further include receiving a specific tag ID for a specific tag associated with a specific product intended for purchase from the venue from a device operated by the prospective purchaser. Embodiments may further include accessing a data structure containing a plurality of tag IDs associated with a plurality of products in the venue. Embodiments may further include performing a lookup for the specific tag ID in the data structure, thereby identifying the specific product. Embodiments may further include initiating an electronic purchase transaction to debit an account associated with the intended purchaser for the electronic purchase of the particular product. Embodiments may further include disabling the ability to initiate an alert when a transmission is received from the particular tag proximate to an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door associated with the venue following the electronic purchase of the particular product .
与所公开的实施方案一致，进一步公开了用于场所的电子安全系统的系统、方法和计算机可读介质，所述场所提供对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取。实施方案可以包括具有相关联的无线传输标签的产品。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个接收器，所述至少一个接收器被配置成从所述无线传输标签接收传输。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个处理器。实施方案可以进一步包括访问商店外产品购买的购买交易记录，所述购买交易记录包括至少一个所购买产品的标识和与所述至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息。实施方案可以进一步包括接收与对应于所述至少一个所购买产品的库存中的至少一个特定产品相关联的特定标签的唯一标签ID。实施方案可以进一步包括将所述至少一个特定产品指派给与所述购买交易相关联的记录。实施方案可以进一步包括从与所述购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收所述至少一个所购买产品正在所述场所处被拾取的通知。实施方案可以进一步包括基于从与所述购买者相关联的所述移动通信设备接收的信息，授权对所述至少一个特定产品的拾取。实施方案可以进一步包括在授权对所述至少一个特定产品的拾取之后，当所述至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于所述EAS门的所述特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, further disclosed are systems, methods, and computer-readable media for electronic security systems at locations that provide in-store pickup of previously purchased products. Embodiments may include products with associated wireless transmission tags. Embodiments may further include at least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door. Embodiments may further include at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the wireless transmitting tag. Implementations may further include at least one processor. Embodiments may further include accessing purchase transaction records for out-of-store product purchases, the purchase transaction records including an identification of at least one purchased product and purchaser identification information of a purchaser associated with the at least one purchased product. Embodiments may further include receiving a unique tag ID for a particular tag associated with at least one particular product in the inventory corresponding to the at least one purchased product. Embodiments may further include assigning the at least one specific product to a record associated with the purchase transaction. Embodiments may further include receiving notification from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser that the at least one purchased product is being picked up at the location. Embodiments may further include authorizing pickup of the at least one specific product based on information received from the mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. Embodiments may further include disabling the ability to initiate an alarm when the at least one receiver receives a transmission from the specific tag proximate to the EAS door after authorizing pickup of the at least one specific product.
与附加公开的实施方案一致，另外公开了用于对产品的商店内拾取的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括先前所购买产品。实施方案可以进一步包括与无线传输标签相关联的产品。实施方案可以进一步包括接收来自所述无线传输标签中的至少一个无线传输标签的传输。实施方案可以进一步包括访问来自场所的商店外产品购买的购买交易记录，所述购买交易记录包括至少一个所购买产品的标识和与所述至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息。实施方案可以进一步包括接收与对应于所述至少一个所购买产品的库存中的至少一个特定产品相关联的特定标签的唯一标签ID。实施方案可以进一步包括将所述至少一个特定产品指派给与所述购买交易相关联的记录。实施方案可以进一步包括从与所述购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收所述至少一个所购买产品正在所述场所处被拾取的通知。实施方案可以进一步包括基于从与所述购买者相关联的所述移动通信设备接收的信息，授权对所述至少一个特定产品的拾取。实施方案可以进一步包括在授权对所述至少一个特定产品的拾取之后，当从接近于与所述场所相关联的电子物品监视(EAS)门的所述特定标签接收到传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the additional disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for in-store pickup of products are additionally disclosed. Embodiments may include previously purchased products. Embodiments may further include products associated with wireless transmission tags. Embodiments may further include receiving a transmission from at least one of the wireless transmitting tags. Embodiments may further include accessing purchase transaction records for out-of-store product purchases from the venue, the purchase transaction records including an identification of at least one purchased product and purchaser identification information of a purchaser associated with the at least one purchased product. . Embodiments may further include receiving a unique tag ID for a particular tag associated with at least one particular product in the inventory corresponding to the at least one purchased product. Embodiments may further include assigning the at least one specific product to a record associated with the purchase transaction. Embodiments may further include receiving notification from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser that the at least one purchased product is being picked up at the location. Embodiments may further include authorizing pickup of the at least one specific product based on information received from the mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. Embodiments may further include, after authorizing pickup of the at least one specific product, disabling an alert that is initiated when a transmission is received from the specific tag proximate to an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door associated with the location. ability.
与所公开的实施方案一致，公开了用于防止对退回货物的盗窃的电子安全系统的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括在场所中的至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个接收器，所述至少一个接收器被配置成从无线传输标签接收传输。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个处理器。实施方案可以进一步包括从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到所述场所的通知。实施方案可以进一步包括在接收到所述通知之后，在数据结构中识别与所述先前所购买产品相关联的特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。实施方案可以进一步包括更新所述数据结构以指示所述先前所购买产品被退回到所述场所。实施方案可以进一步包括在更新所述数据结构时，当所述至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于所述EAS门的所述先前所购买产品相关联的所述特定标签的传输时，启用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for electronic security systems for preventing theft of returned shipments are disclosed. Embodiments may include at least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door in the premises. Embodiments may further include at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the wireless transmitting tag. Implementations may further include at least one processor. Embodiments may further include receiving a notification from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser of an intent to return the previously purchased product to the location. Embodiments may further include identifying, in a data structure, a unique tag ID of the particular wireless transmission tag associated with the previously purchased product upon receipt of the notification. Embodiments may further include updating the data structure to indicate that the previously purchased product is returned to the location. Embodiments may further include, upon updating the data structure, enabling initiation when the at least one receiver receives a transmission from the particular tag associated with the previously purchased product in proximity to the EAS gate. Alert capability.
与附加公开的实施方案一致，还公开了用于防止对带无线标签的退回物品的盗窃的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括接收来自无线传输标签的传输。实施方案可以进一步包括从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知。实施方案可以进一步包括在接收到所述通知之后，在数据结构中识别与所述先前所购买产品相关联的特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。实施方案可以进一步包括更新所述数据结构以指示所述先前所购买产品被退回到所述场所。实施方案可以进一步包括在更新所述数据结构时，当与所述场所相关联的至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于所述场所中的至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门的所述先前所购买产品相关联的所述特定标签的传输时，启用发起警报的能力。Consistent with the additional disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for preventing theft of wirelessly tagged returned items are also disclosed. Embodiments may include receiving transmissions from wirelessly transmitting tags. Embodiments may further include receiving a notification from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser of an intent to return the previously purchased product to the venue. Embodiments may further include identifying, in a data structure, a unique tag ID of the particular wireless transmission tag associated with the previously purchased product upon receipt of the notification. Embodiments may further include updating the data structure to indicate that the previously purchased product is returned to the location. Embodiments may further include, in updating the data structure, when at least one receiver associated with the location receives the previously received data from and proximate to at least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door in the location. Enables the ability to initiate alerts when purchasing a product associated with the transmission of the specific tag.
与所公开的实施方案一致，进一步公开了用于无线交易和无线交易通信的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括至少一个处理器。实施方案可以进一步包括访问至少一个数据结构，所述至少一个数据结构包含多个展示区域的标识和与所述多个展示区域相关联的多个产品的标识。实施方案可以进一步包括从移动通信设备接收对与所述移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域有关的信息的请求。实施方案可以进一步包括接收与所述移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息。实施方案可以进一步包括响应于所述位置信息，在所述至少一个数据结构中执行查找以识别所述移动通信设备附近的所述特定展示区域。实施方案可以进一步包括基于对所述特定展示区域的识别，从所述至少一个数据结构检索与所述特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息。实施方案可以进一步包括将所述产品相关信息传输到所述移动通信设备。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for wireless transactions and wireless transaction communications are further disclosed. Implementations may include at least one processor. Embodiments may further include accessing at least one data structure containing an identification of a plurality of display areas and an identification of a plurality of products associated with the plurality of display areas. Embodiments may further include receiving a request from a mobile communications device for information related to a particular display area proximate the mobile communications device. Embodiments may further include receiving location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device. Embodiments may further include, in response to the location information, performing a lookup in the at least one data structure to identify the particular display area proximate the mobile communications device. Embodiments may further include retrieving product-related information from the at least one data structure for a product associated with the particular display area based on the identification of the particular display area. Embodiments may further include transmitting the product-related information to the mobile communications device.
与所公开的实施方案一致，另外公开了用于在包含多个带无线标签的产品的场所中的无线传输标签并且用于自动生成产品分布陈列图的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以进一步包括至少一个处理器，所述至少一个处理器被配置成：从所述场所中的多个接收器接收来自所述多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中所述无线信号包括与所述多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID；访问将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构；从所述无线信号确定所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品在所述场所中的位置；在所述数据结构中对所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID执行查找，以确定与所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的产品分类信息；并且使用每个带无线标签的产品的所确定的位置和所确定的产品分类信息来生成针对所述场所的陈列图，其中所述陈列图在所述场所的地图上指示共享共同分类信息的带无线标签的产品组的位置。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, additionally disclosed are systems, methods, and computer-readable media for wirelessly transmitting tags in a location containing a plurality of wirelessly tagged products and for automatically generating a product distribution planogram. Embodiments may further include at least one processor configured to receive wireless signals from the plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in the venue, wherein the wireless signals including an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products; accessing a data structure associating each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with classification information; from the The wireless signal determines the location of each of the wirelessly tagged products in the place; in the data structure, each of the wirelessly tagged products is performing a lookup for each ID to determine product classification information associated with each of the wirelessly tagged products; and using the determined location of each wirelessly tagged product and the determined product classification information to generate a planogram for the location, wherein the planogram indicates the location of wirelessly tagged product groups that share common classification information on a map of the location.
与附加公开的实施方案一致，公开了用于执行基于从无线标签收集的信息生成陈列图的操作的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括从场所中的多个接收器接收来自所述多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中所述无线信号包括与所述多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。实施方案可以进一步包括访问将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构。实施方案还可以包括从所述无线信号确定所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品在所述场所中的位置。进一步地，实施方案可以包括在所述数据结构中对所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID执行查找，以确定与所述带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的产品分类信息。实施方案还可以包括使用每个带无线标签的产品的所确定的位置和所确定的产品分类信息来生成用于所述场所的所述陈列图，其中所述陈列图在所述场所的地图上指示共享共同分类信息的带无线标签的产品组的位置。Consistent with the additional disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for performing operations of generating a planogram based on information collected from wireless tags. Embodiments may include receiving wireless signals from the plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in a venue, wherein the wireless signals include communication with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. The ID associated with the product. Embodiments may further include accessing a data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with classification information. Embodiments may further include determining the location of each of the wireless tagged products in the venue from the wireless signal. Further, embodiments may include performing a lookup in the data structure for each ID of each of the wirelessly tagged products to determine the identity of each of the wirelessly tagged products. Product classification information associated with products with wireless tags. Embodiments may also include using the determined location of each wirelessly tagged product and the determined product classification information to generate the planogram for the venue, wherein the planogram is on a map of the venue Indicates the location of wireless-tagged product groups that share common classification information.
与所公开的实施方案一致，公开了涉及读取包含多个带无线标签的产品的场所中的无线传输标签并且用于自动生成补货警告的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括至少一个处理器，所述至少一个处理器被配置成：从所述场所中的多个接收器接收来自所述多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中所述无线信号反映与所述多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID；访问至少一个数据结构，所述至少一个数据结构将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与多个产品型号中的一个产品型号相关联；在所述数据结构中对与至少一个带无线标签的产品的至少一个ID相关联的产品型号执行查找；基于所述查找来确定在所述场所中检测到的每个产品型号的总单位数量；在所述至少一个数据结构中访问与所述场所中的每个产品型号相关联的目标单位阈值；将每个产品型号的所确定的总单位数量与所述目标阈值进行比较，以确定特定产品型号何时下降到低于相关联的阈值；并且输出对于所述特定产品型号的补货通知。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed that relate to reading wirelessly transmitted tags in a location containing a plurality of wirelessly tagged products and for automatically generating replenishment alerts. Embodiments may include at least one processor configured to receive wireless signals from the plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in the venue, wherein the wireless signals reflect an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products; accessing at least one data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with a plurality of associated with one of the product models; performing a lookup in the data structure for a product model associated with at least one ID of at least one wirelessly tagged product; determining detection in the location based on the lookup the determined total unit quantity of each product model; accessing in the at least one data structure a target unit threshold associated with each product model in the location; comparing the determined total unit quantity of each product model with The target thresholds are compared to determine when a particular product model drops below the associated threshold; and a restock notification is output for the particular product model.
与附加公开的实施方案一致，公开了用于读取包含多个带无线标签的产品的场所中的无线传输标签并且用于自动生成补货警告的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括从场所中的多个接收器接收来自所述多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中所述无线信号反映与所述多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。实施方案可以进一步包括访问至少一个数据结构，所述至少一个数据结构将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与多个产品型号中的一个产品型号相关联。实施方案还可以包括在所述数据结构中对与至少一个带无线标签的产品的至少一个ID相关联的产品型号执行查找。实施方案可以包括基于所述查找来确定在所述场所中检测到的每个产品型号的总单位数量。实施方案还可以包括在所述至少一个数据结构中访问与所述场所中的每个产品型号相关联的目标单位阈值。实施方案可以包括将每个产品型号的所确定的总单位数量与所述目标阈值进行比较，以确定特定产品型号何时下降到低于相关联的阈值。进一步地，实施方案可以包括输出对于所述特定产品型号的补货通知。Consistent with the additional disclosed embodiments, systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for reading wirelessly transmitted tags in a location containing a plurality of wirelessly tagged products and for automatically generating replenishment alerts. Embodiments may include receiving wireless signals from the plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in a venue, wherein the wireless signals reflect information associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. The ID associated with the product. Embodiments may further include accessing at least one data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with one of a plurality of product models. Embodiments may also include performing a lookup in the data structure for a product model associated with at least one ID of at least one wirelessly tagged product. Embodiments may include determining the total number of units of each product model detected in the location based on the lookup. Embodiments may also include accessing in the at least one data structure a target unit threshold associated with each product model in the location. Embodiments may include comparing the determined total unit quantity for each product model to the target threshold to determine when a particular product model drops below the associated threshold. Further, embodiments may include outputting a restock notification for the specific product model.
前面的概述提供了所公开的实施方案的某些例子，以便为本公开文本提供特色，并且不旨在总结所公开的实施方案的所有方面。所公开的实施方案的附加特征和优点将在下面的描述中部分地阐述，并且将部分地从描述中显而易见，或者可以通过实践所公开的实施方案来了解。所公开的实施方案的特征和优点将通过在所附权利要求中特别指出的元素和组合来实现和获得。The preceding summary provides certain examples of the disclosed embodiments in order to provide features of the present disclosure, and is not intended to summarize all aspects of the disclosed embodiments. Additional features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed embodiments. The features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be realized and obtained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
应当理解，前面的概括描述和下面的详细描述都只是示例和说明性的，而不是对所要求保护的公开实施方案的限制。It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments as claimed.
附图构成本说明书的一部分。附图展示了本公开文本的若干实施方案，并且与描述一起用于解释所附权利要求中阐述的公开实施方案的原理。The accompanying drawings constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments as set forth in the appended claims.
附图说明Description of the drawings
并入并构成本公开文本的一部分的附图展示了各种公开的实施方案。在附图中：The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various disclosed embodiments. In the attached picture:
图1是与所公开的实施方案一致的示例性无线识别系统的透视图，所述系统包括门、结合到用户穿戴的物品中的无线识别标签、以及结合到用户手持的物品中的无线识别标签。1 is a perspective view of an exemplary wireless identification system including a door, a wireless identification tag incorporated into an item worn by a user, and a wireless identification tag incorporated into an item held by a user, consistent with the disclosed embodiments. .
图2是与所公开的实施方案一致的图1的系统的示例性无线识别标签的框图。2 is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless identification tag of the system of FIG. 1 consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图3描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的封装在织物口袋内的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 3 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 enclosed within a fabric pocket consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图4描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的附接到衣物标签的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 4 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 attached to a garment tag consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图5描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的缝合到物品中的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 5 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 sewn into an article consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图6描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的安装到悬挂标签上的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 6 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 mounted on a hanging tag consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图7描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的嵌入到服装物品中的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 7 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 embedded in an article of clothing consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图8描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的粘附到容器的图2的示例性无线识别标签。Figure 8 depicts the exemplary wireless identification tag of Figure 2 adhered to a container consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图9是与所公开的实施方案一致的用于无线识别标签的示例性系统架构的框图。9 is a block diagram of an exemplary system architecture for wireless identification tags consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图10是与所公开的实施方案一致的图9的示例性系统架构的另一个框图，示出了示例性控制器架构的细节。Figure 10 is another block diagram of the example system architecture of Figure 9 showing details of the example controller architecture, consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图11是与所公开的实施方案一致的用于监测场所内的物品位置的示例性系统的网络图。Figure 11 is a network diagram of an exemplary system for monitoring the location of items within a facility consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图12是与所公开的实施方案一致的用于采集和存储环境能量的示例性系统的框图。Figure 12 is a block diagram of an exemplary system for harvesting and storing ambient energy consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图13A是与所公开的实施方案一致的结合示例性无线识别系统的零售场所的透视图。13A is a perspective view of a retail location incorporating an exemplary wireless identification system consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图13B描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的在示例性基础设施可激励模式下操作的无线识别标签的例子。Figure 13B depicts an example of a wireless identification tag operating in an exemplary infrastructure energizable mode consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图13C描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的在示例性用户可激励模式下操作的无线识别标签的例子。Figure 13C depicts an example of a wireless identification tag operating in an exemplary user-activatable mode consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图13D描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的在示例性门模式下操作的无线识别标签的例子。Figure 13D depicts an example of a wireless identification tag operating in an exemplary door mode consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图14A展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示库存搜索图形用户界面的用户设备。Figure 14A illustrates a user device displaying an inventory search graphical user interface consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图14B展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示产品图形用户界面的用户设备。Figure 14B illustrates a user device displaying a product graphical user interface consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图14C展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示产品尺寸搜索图形用户界面的用户设备。Figure 14C illustrates a user device displaying a product size search graphical user interface consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图15是展示了与一些公开的实施方案一致的库存控制操作的例子的流程图。Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of inventory control operations consistent with some disclosed embodiments.
图16是与所公开的实施方案一致的结合示例性无线识别系统的示例性零售场所的透视图。Figure 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary retail location incorporating an exemplary wireless identification system consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图17是与所公开的实施方案一致的用于场所之间的通信的示例性广域网(WAN)的图。17 is a diagram of an exemplary wide area network (WAN) for communications between locations consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图18是与所公开的实施方案一致的用于对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的示例性无线识别系统的网络图。18 is a network diagram of an exemplary wireless identification system for in-store pickup of previously purchased products consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图19描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的装有从场所购买的至少一个产品的示例性包装。Figure 19 depicts an exemplary package containing at least one product purchased from a venue consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图20A描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示用于生成退回通知的第一图形用户界面的移动通信设备。20A depicts a mobile communications device displaying a first graphical user interface for generating bounce notifications consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图20B描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示用于生成退回通知的第二图形用户界面的移动通信设备。20B depicts a mobile communications device displaying a second graphical user interface for generating bounce notifications consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图21展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的具有用于显示所提供的产品的多个展示区域的示例性零售场所。Figure 21 illustrates an exemplary retail location having multiple display areas for displaying offered products consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图22描绘了与所公开的实施方案一致的显示具有产品相关信息的图形用户界面的移动通信设备。Figure 22 depicts a mobile communications device displaying a graphical user interface with product-related information consistent with the disclosed embodiments.
图23展示了与实施方案一致的表示场所的平面地图的示例性陈列图。Figure 23 illustrates an exemplary plan view representing a floor map of a venue consistent with embodiments.
图24是展示了与实施方案一致的陈列图生成的一个方面的示例性实施方案的流程图。24 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment illustrating one aspect of planogram generation consistent with the embodiments.
图25是展示了与实施方案一致的补货通知生成的一个方面的示例性实施方案的流程图。Figure 25 is a flowchart of an exemplary implementation illustrating one aspect of replenishment notification generation consistent with the implementation.
图26是展示了与一些公开的实施方案一致的对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的例子的流程图。26 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of in-store pickup of previously purchased products consistent with some disclosed embodiments.
图27是展示了与一些公开的实施方案一致的防止对带无线标签的退回物品的盗窃的例子的流程图。27 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of preventing theft of wirelessly tagged returned items consistent with some disclosed embodiments.
图28是展示了与一些公开的实施方案一致的执行无线交易的例子的流程图。Figure 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of performing a wireless transaction consistent with some disclosed embodiments.
具体实施方式Detailed ways
参考附图描述示例性实施方案。在不一定按比例绘制的附图中，附图标记的最左边的一个或多个数字标识了附图标记首次出现的附图。在方便的情况下，在所有附图中使用相同的附图标记来指代相同或相似的部分。虽然本文描述了所公开原理的例子和特征，但是在不脱离所公开的实施方案的精神和范围的情况下，修改、改编和其他实现方式是可能的。而且，词语“包括”、“具有”、“含有”和“包含”以及其他类似的形式旨在在意义上是等同的，并且是开放式的，因为在这些词语中的任何一个之后的一个或多个项目并不意味着是这个或这些项目的详尽列举，或者意味着仅局限于所列出的这个或这些项目。还应注意的是，如在本公开文本和所附权利要求中所使用的，单数形式“一”、“一个”和“所述”包括复数引用，除非上下文另有明确规定。Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings which are not necessarily to scale, the leftmost digit or digits of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. Where convenient, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. Although examples and features of the disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. Furthermore, the words "includes," "has," "contains," and "includes" and other similar forms are intended to be equivalent in meaning and are open-ended in that the following one or Multiple items are not meant to be an exhaustive enumeration of the item or items or to be limited to the item or items listed. It should also be noted that, as used in this disclosure and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
除非另有特别声明，否则从以下描述中显而易见的是，在整个说明书中，使用诸如“处理”、“计算”、“运算”、“确定”、“生成”、“设置”、“配置”、“选择”、“定义”、“应用”、“获得”、“监测”、“提供”、“识别”、“分割”、“分类”、“分析”、“关联”、“提取”、“存储”、“接收”、“传输”等术语的讨论包括计算机的动作和/或过程，其将数据操纵和/或转换成其他数据，该数据被表示为物理量，例如电子量，和/或表示物理对象的数据。术语“计算机”、“处理器”、“控制器”、“处理单元”、“计算单元”和“处理模块”应被广义地解释为涵盖任何种类的具有数据处理能力的电子设备、部件或单元，通过非限制性举例的方式包括个人计算机、可穿戴计算机、智能眼镜、平板电脑、智能电话、服务器、计算系统、云计算平台、通信设备、处理器(例如，数字信号处理器(DSP)、图像信号处理器(ISR)、微控制器、现场可编程门阵列(FPGA)、专用集成电路(ASIC)、中央处理单元(CPA)、图形处理单元(GPU)、视觉处理单元(VPU)等)，可能具有嵌入式存储器、单核处理器、多核处理器、处理器内的核、任何其他电子计算设备或上述的任意组合。Unless otherwise specifically stated, it will be apparent from the following description that throughout this specification, terms such as "process", "calculate", "operate", "determine", "generate", "set", "configure", "Select", "Define", "Apply", "Acquire", "Monitor", "Provide", "Identify", "Segment", "Classify", "Analyze", "Associate", "Extract", "Storage" ”, “receive”, “transmit” and other terms are discussed to include the actions and/or processes of a computer that manipulate and/or convert data into other data, that data is represented as a physical quantity, such as an electronic quantity, and/or that represents a physical The object's data. The terms "computer", "processor", "controller", "processing unit", "computing unit" and "processing module" shall be construed broadly to cover any kind of electronic device, component or unit having data processing capabilities , including, by way of non-limiting example, personal computers, wearable computers, smart glasses, tablets, smartphones, servers, computing systems, cloud computing platforms, communication devices, processors (e.g., digital signal processors (DSP), Image signal processor (ISR), microcontroller, field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), central processing unit (CPA), graphics processing unit (GPU), vision processing unit (VPU), etc.) , may have embedded memory, a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, cores within a processor, any other electronic computing device, or any combination of the above.
根据本文教导的操作可以由专门构造或编程来执行所述功能的计算机来执行。Operations in accordance with the teachings herein may be performed by a computer specially constructed or programmed to perform the recited functions.
如本文所使用的，短语“例如”、“诸如”、“举例”及其变体描述了当前公开的主题的非限制性实施方案。说明书中对“实施方案”、“一种情况”、“一些情况”、“其他情况”或其变体的特征的引用意味着所描述的特定特征、结构或特性可以包括在当前公开的主题的至少一个实施方案中。因此，这些术语的出现不一定涉及一个或多个相同的实施方案。如本文所使用的，术语“和/或”包括相关联列举项目中的一个或多个的任何和所有组合。As used herein, the phrases "such as," "such as," "for example," and variations thereof describe non-limiting embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. Reference in the specification to features in the specification "embodiments," "one case," "some cases," "other cases" or variations thereof means that the particular feature, structure or characteristic described may be included in the presently disclosed subject matter. in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of these terms are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment or embodiments. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
为简洁起见，在特定实施方案的上下文中描述了当前公开的主题的特征。然而，应当理解，结合一个实施方案描述的特征也适用于其他实施方案。同样，在特定组合的上下文中描述的特征可以被认为是单独的实施方案，无论是独立存在还是在与特定组合不同的上下文中。For the sake of brevity, features of the presently disclosed subject matter are described in the context of specific implementations. However, it is to be understood that features described in connection with one embodiment also apply to other embodiments. Likewise, features described in the context of a specific combination may be considered separate embodiments, whether existing independently or in a context different from that specific combination.
在当前公开的主题的实施方案中，附图中所展示的一个或多个阶段可以以不同的顺序执行，和/或一个或多个阶段组可以同时执行，并且反之亦然。附图展示了根据当前公开的主题的实施方案的系统架构的总体示意图。附图中的每个模块可以由软件、硬件和/或固件的任意组合构成，其执行如本文定义和解释的功能。附图中的模块可以集中在一个位置或者分散在多于一个位置。In implementations of the presently disclosed subject matter, one or more stages shown in the figures may be performed in a different order, and/or one or more groups of stages may be performed concurrently, and vice versa. The Figures illustrate a general schematic diagram of a system architecture in accordance with embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. Each module in the figures may be constructed from any combination of software, hardware, and/or firmware that performs the function as defined and explained herein. The modules in the figures may be concentrated in one location or dispersed in more than one location.
当前公开的主题的例子在应用中不限于在以下描述中阐述或在附图中展示的部件的构造和布置的细节。所述主题可以通过各种方式实践或执行。而且，应当理解，本文采用的措辞和术语是为了描述的目的，而不应被认为是限制性的。Examples of the presently disclosed subject matter are not limited in application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The subject matter may be practiced or performed in a variety of ways. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
在本文件中，附图中未在附图范围内描述且用先前附图中已描述的数字标记的元素可以具有与先前附图中相同的用途和描述。In this document, elements in the figures that are not described within the scope of the figures and are labeled with numbers that have been described in previous figures may have the same purpose and description as in the previous figures.
本文件中的附图可能不符合任何比例。不同的图可以使用不同的比例，并且甚至在同一个图中也可以使用不同的比例，例如同一对象的不同视图可以使用不同的比例，或者两个相邻对象可以使用不同的比例。The drawings in this document may not conform to any scale. Different diagrams can use different scales, and even within the same diagram different scales can be used, for example different views of the same object can use different scales, or two adjacent objects can use different scales.
与所公开的实施方案一致，“至少一个处理器”可以构成具有对一个或多个输入执行逻辑运算的电路系统的任何物理设备或设备组。例如，至少一个处理器可以包括一个或多个集成电路(IC)，包括专用集成电路(ASIC)、微芯片、微控制器、微处理器、中央处理单元(CPU)的全部或一部分、图形处理单元(GPU)、数字信号处理器(DSP)、现场可编程门阵列(FPGA)、服务器、虚拟服务器、或者适用于执行指令或执行逻辑运算的其他电路。由至少一个处理器执行的指令可以例如预加载到与控制器集成或嵌入控制器中的存储器中，或者可以存储在单独的存储器中。存储器可以包括随机存取存储器(RAM)、只读存储器(ROM)、硬盘、光盘、磁介质、闪存存储器、其他永久、固定或易失性存储器、或者能够存储指令的任何其他机制。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以包括多于一个处理器。每个处理器可以具有相似的构造，或者这些处理器可以具有彼此电连接或电分离的不同构造。例如，处理器可以是单独的电路或者集成在单个电路中。当使用多于一个处理器时，这些处理器可以被配置成独立或协同地操作。这些处理器可以电耦接、磁耦接、光耦接、声耦接、机械耦接或通过准许它们相互作用的其他手段耦接。Consistent with the disclosed embodiments, "at least one processor" may constitute any physical device or group of devices having circuitry that performs logical operations on one or more inputs. For example, at least one processor may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs), including an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microchip, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, all or a portion of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit unit (GPU), digital signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), server, virtual server, or other circuitry suitable for executing instructions or performing logical operations. Instructions for execution by the at least one processor may, for example, be preloaded into memory integrated with or embedded in the controller, or may be stored in separate memory. Memory may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), hard disk, optical disk, magnetic media, flash memory, other permanent, fixed or volatile memory, or any other mechanism capable of storing instructions. In some implementations, at least one processor may include more than one processor. Each processor may have a similar configuration, or the processors may have different configurations that are electrically connected to or electrically separated from each other. For example, the processor may be a separate circuit or integrated in a single circuit. When more than one processor is used, the processors may be configured to operate independently or cooperatively. These processors may be coupled electrically, magnetically, optically, acoustically, mechanically, or by other means that permit their interaction.
所公开的实施方案可以包括和/或访问数据结构。与本公开文本一致的数据结构可以包括数据值的任何集合以及它们之间的关系。数据可以线性地、水平地、分层地、关系型地、非关系型地、单维地、多维地、操作性地、以有序的方式、以无序的方式、以面向对象的方式、以集中的方式、以分散的方式、以分布式的方式、以自定义方式、或以任何能够实现数据访问的方式进行存储。通过非限制性举例的方式，数据结构可以包括数组、关联数组、链表、二叉树、平衡树、堆、栈、队列、集合、哈希表、记录、标签联合、ER模型和图表。例如，数据结构可以包括用于数据存储/搜索的XML数据库、RDBMS数据库、SQL数据库或NoSQL替代方案，例如，MongoDB、Redis、Couchbase、Datastax Enterprise Graph、Elastic Search、Splunk、Solr、Cassandra、Amazon DynamoDB、Scylla、HBase和Neo4J。数据结构可以是所公开的系统的部件或远程计算部件(例如，基于云的数据结构)。数据结构中的数据可以存储在连续或非连续的存储器中。此外，如本文所使用的数据结构不要求信息位于同一位置。它可以分布在多个服务器上，例如，所述多个服务器可以由相同或不同的实体拥有或操作。因此，如本文所使用的单数术语“数据结构”涵盖了复数个数据结构。Disclosed embodiments may include and/or access data structures. A data structure consistent with this disclosure may include any collection of data values and relationships between them. Data can be linear, horizontal, hierarchical, relational, non-relational, unidimensional, multidimensional, operational, in an ordered way, in an unordered way, in an object-oriented way, Store in a centralized manner, in a decentralized manner, in a distributed manner, in a customized manner, or in any manner that enables data access. By way of non-limiting example, data structures may include arrays, associative arrays, linked lists, binary trees, balanced trees, heaps, stacks, queues, sets, hash tables, records, labeled unions, ER models, and graphs. For example, data structures may include XML databases, RDBMS databases, SQL databases, or NoSQL alternatives for data storage/search, such as MongoDB, Redis, Couchbase, Datastax Enterprise Graph, Elastic Search, Splunk, Solr, Cassandra, Amazon DynamoDB, Scylla, HBase and Neo4J. The data structure may be a component of the disclosed system or a remote computing component (eg, a cloud-based data structure). Data in a data structure can be stored in contiguous or non-contiguous memory. Furthermore, data structures as used in this article do not require that the information be co-located. It may be distributed across multiple servers, which may, for example, be owned or operated by the same or different entities. Thus, the singular term "data structure" as used herein encompasses plural data structures.
示例性实施方案总体上涉及无线通信标签，所述无线通信标签被配置成嵌入到实体物品中、附接到实体物品或以其他方式与实体物品相关联，以便在示例性数字平台上数字地表示每个物品。在一些实施方案中，示例性标签可以被配置成采集环境能量并且使用所采集的能量向接收器发送识别信号。识别信号可以包括各种类型的数据，包括产品、位置、历史、状态、所有权和/或特性数据。取决于预期用途，这种数据可以被传送到与各种类型的平台相关联的接收器。所述平台可以是例如在一个或多个服务器上运行的软件程序，用于实现一种或多种类型的产品跟踪和/或认证。可以采用所公开的实施方案的平台的例子包括但不限于：商业场所(诸如商店和仓库)中的库存管理系统；厨房管理系统，用于跟踪供应品和/或工具；电器管理系统，用于跟踪电器内或与电器连接使用的带标签材料；制造系统，用于跟踪在产品的制造过程中使用的部件；运输和配送系统，用于通过运输和配送来跟踪包裹和其他可递送物；其他供应链管理；衣柜管理系统，用于跟踪储存在衣柜和壁橱中的服装物品；服装洗涤系统，用于跟踪服装物品的清洁和/或待洗涤的服装的接收以及服装到顾客或指定位置(诸如壁橱或衣柜)的退回；食品递送系统；用于管理转移到不同所有者的货物的所有权的系统；用于认证货物以防止伪造的系统；车辆跟踪系统；用于跟踪在车辆中和/或在公共和私人领域中的材料和/或人员的系统；废物管理系统；以及其中跟踪和/或认证人、动物或物体可以是有益的所有其他系统。Exemplary embodiments generally relate to wireless communication tags configured to be embedded in, attached to, or otherwise associated with a physical item for digital representation on an exemplary digital platform every item. In some implementations, example tags may be configured to harvest ambient energy and use the harvested energy to send an identification signal to a receiver. Identification signals may include various types of data, including product, location, history, status, ownership and/or identity data. Depending on the intended use, this data can be transmitted to receivers associated with various types of platforms. The platform may be, for example, a software program running on one or more servers to enable one or more types of product tracking and/or authentication. Examples of platforms in which the disclosed embodiments may be employed include, but are not limited to: inventory management systems in commercial locations such as stores and warehouses; kitchen management systems for tracking supplies and/or tools; appliance management systems for Tracking of tagged materials used in or connected to appliances; manufacturing systems to track components used in the manufacturing process of a product; transportation and distribution systems to track packages and other deliverables through transportation and distribution; other Supply chain management; Wardrobe management systems, used to track clothing items stored in wardrobes and closets; Garment laundering systems, used to track the cleaning of clothing items and/or the receipt of garments to be laundered and the garments to customers or designated locations such as closet or wardrobe); food delivery systems; systems for managing ownership of goods transferred to different owners; systems for authenticating goods to prevent counterfeiting; vehicle tracking systems; for tracking items in and/or in vehicles Systems for materials and/or people in the public and private realm; waste management systems; and all other systems where tracking and/or authenticating people, animals or objects can be beneficial.
在一些实施方案中，示例性标签可以被配置成在没有指定电池的情况下采集能量，并且在活动传输状态和空闲状态下操作，同时消耗最小量的功率。有利的是，示例性标签的配置可以在与无源RFID设备相当的功率包络下实现与商用电池供能设备相当的无线电性能。In some embodiments, example tags may be configured to harvest energy without a designated battery and operate in active transmitting and idle states while consuming a minimal amount of power. Advantageously, the exemplary tag configuration can achieve radio performance comparable to commercial battery-powered devices at a power envelope comparable to passive RFID devices.
图1展示了在安全门的环境中的示例性无线标签1100a和1100b的非限制性实施方案，所述安全门诸如是电子物品监视(EAS)门1110、1112。在一些实施方案中，标签1100a和1100b中的一个或两个可以是无线识别标签。标签1100a可以嵌入、缝合、夹到、附接或以其他方式结合到诸如服装物品1106的物体中。标签1100b可以附接到或以其他方式结合到由用户1104购买或以其他方式采购并装在袋子1122内的物品上。标签1100a和1100b可以被配置成接收无线信号，诸如信号1118。信号1118可以由外部系统或设备(诸如EAS发射器1116)产生，其可以形成EAS门1110、1112的一部分。在一些实施方案中，标签1100a和1100b中的一个或两个可以被配置成接收门信号1118，并且作为响应，生成并输出具有不同于门信号1118的频率的信号。例如，标签1100a可以在接收到门信号1118时输出信号1102a，并且标签1100b可以在接收到门信号1118时输出信号1102b。在一些实施方案中，信号1102a和1102b中的一个或两个可以具有在约2.4GHz的频段内的频率，使得信号1102a和1102b不被EAS传感器1120检测并因此不触发EAS门1110、1112的警报器1114。Figure 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of exemplary wireless tags 1100a and 1100b in the context of a security door, such as an electronic article surveillance (EAS) door 1110, 1112. In some embodiments, one or both of tags 1100a and 1100b may be wireless identification tags. Tag 1100a may be embedded, sewn, clipped, attached, or otherwise incorporated into an object such as article of apparel 1106. Tag 1100b may be attached to or otherwise combined with items purchased or otherwise procured by user 1104 and contained within bag 1122 . Tags 1100a and 1100b may be configured to receive wireless signals, such as signal 1118 . Signal 1118 may be generated by an external system or device, such as EAS transmitter 1116 , which may form part of EAS gates 1110 , 1112 . In some implementations, one or both of tags 1100a and 1100b may be configured to receive gate signal 1118 and, in response, generate and output a signal having a frequency different from gate signal 1118. For example, tag 1100a may output signal 1102a when gate signal 1118 is received, and tag 1100b may output signal 1102b when gate signal 1118 is received. In some embodiments, one or both of the signals 1102a and 1102b may have a frequency within the band of approximately 2.4 GHz such that the signals 1102a and 1102b are not detected by the EAS sensor 1120 and therefore do not trigger an alarm of the EAS gates 1110, 1112 Device 1114.
在一些实施方案中，图1的示例性系统可以包括至少一个接收器/激励器设备1124，其被配置成接收来自多个无线标签的信号广播(诸如信号1102a和1102b)，并且还被配置成递送将由无线标签收集和存储的能量，以便为无线标签供能，如下面详细讨论的。例如，设备1124可以包括收发器、路由器、双工器或被配置成传输和接收信号的任何其他设备。在一些替代实施方案中，诸如图13A所描绘的示例性服装零售场所，所述系统可以包括被配置成接收来自无线标签的信号广播的多个接收器11300a-h，以及被配置成递送将由无线标签收集和存储的能量的激励器13400。然而，本领域普通技术人员将理解，本文描述的示例性系统可以仅包括接收器/激励器设备(诸如设备1124)、仅包括接收器设备和激励器设备(诸如接收器11300和激励器13400)、或者其任何期望的组合。另外地，本领域普通技术人员将理解，本文描述的示例性激励器和接收器(诸如接收器11300和激励器13400)可以被实现为单独的设备和/或组合的接收器/激励器设备(诸如接收器/激励器设备1124)，并且反之亦然。In some embodiments, the example system of Figure 1 may include at least one receiver/exciter device 1124 configured to receive signal broadcasts (such as signals 1102a and 1102b) from a plurality of wireless tags and further configured to Energy is delivered that will be collected and stored by the wireless tag in order to power the wireless tag, as discussed in detail below. For example, device 1124 may include a transceiver, router, duplexer, or any other device configured to transmit and receive signals. In some alternative embodiments, such as the exemplary apparel retail location depicted in Figure 13A, the system may include a plurality of receivers 11300a-h configured to receive signal broadcasts from wireless tags, and configured to deliver signals transmitted by wireless tags. The tag collects and stores energy in the actuator 13400. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the exemplary systems described herein may include only receiver/exciter devices (such as device 1124), only receiver devices and exciter devices (such as receiver 11300 and exciter 13400). , or any desired combination thereof. Additionally, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the example exciters and receivers described herein (such as receiver 11300 and exciter 13400) may be implemented as separate devices and/or combined receiver/exciter devices ( such as receiver/exciter device 1124), and vice versa.
在一些实施方案中，示例性无线标签可以包括至少一个天线、至少一个发射器和至少一个电路。所述至少一个天线、至少一个发射器和至少一个电路可以设置在柔性基板上。基板可以是其上或其中可以设置诸如所述至少一个天线、至少一个发射器和至少一个电路的部件的结构。基板可以是柔性的，使得当遇到力时，基板可以被配置成在一个或多个方向上可变形。例如，柔性基板可以是允许附连到其上的部件适形于期望的形状或在其使用过程中挠曲的基板。适用于柔性基板的材料可以包括但不限于各种类型的纸、各种类型的织物、各种类型的塑料，包括但不限于聚酯(PET)、聚酰亚胺(PI)、聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯(PEN)、聚醚酰亚胺(PEI)、聚醚醚酮(PEEK)以及各种氟聚合物(FEP)和共聚物和/或能够在使用过程中至少部分地适形于期望的形状或挠曲的任何其他基板。In some implementations, an exemplary wireless tag may include at least one antenna, at least one transmitter, and at least one circuit. The at least one antenna, at least one transmitter and at least one circuit may be disposed on the flexible substrate. The substrate may be a structure on which or in which components such as the at least one antenna, the at least one transmitter and the at least one circuit may be disposed. The substrate may be flexible such that when a force is encountered, the substrate may be configured to deform in one or more directions. For example, a flexible substrate may be one that allows components attached thereto to conform to a desired shape or flex during its use. Materials suitable for flexible substrates may include, but are not limited to, various types of paper, various types of fabrics, various types of plastics, including but not limited to polyester (PET), polyimide (PI), polynaphthalene. Ethylene glycol formate (PEN), polyetherimide (PEI), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and various fluoropolymers (FEP) and copolymers and/or are capable of at least partially conforming during use to any other substrate with desired shape or flex.
图2是示例性无线通信标签1100的框图，所述无线通信标签可以包括EAS线圈2110、900MHz天线2112、2.4GHz天线2114、多源采集器2102、发射器2104、门检测电路2106和能量存储电路2108，其中的一些或全部可以形成在基板2120上。基板2120可以是柔性的，使得标签可以运作，而不受例如当标签被附连和/或嵌入到一件服装(诸如图4-图8所展示的各种产品)中时可能发生的挠曲或移动的影响，这将在下面讨论。Figure 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless communication tag 1100, which may include an EAS coil 2110, a 900MHz antenna 2112, a 2.4GHz antenna 2114, a multi-source collector 2102, a transmitter 2104, a gate detection circuit 2106, and an energy storage circuit 2108, some or all of which may be formed on substrate 2120. The substrate 2120 may be flexible such that the tag can operate without flexing that may occur, for example, when the tag is attached and/or embedded into a garment, such as the various products illustrated in Figures 4-8 or the effects of movement, which are discussed below.
无线标签的各种实施方案可以包括用于与产品附连的粘合剂层。在一些实施方案中，无线标签可以附连或以其他方式设置在产品或产品包装上。这种附连可以通过一个或多个粘合剂层来辅助。粘合剂层的实施方案可以包括各种类型的胶水、胶带、胶合剂、蜡、粘液、糊状物、环氧树脂、密封剂、弹性体以及可以促进表面之间的黏合的其他合适的材料。通过举例的方式，参照图2，标签1100可以包括支撑其电子部件的基板2120，并且还可以包括粘合剂层2122，所述粘合剂层可以位于与电子部件相对的基板层一侧，或者在电子部件被封装在两层或更多层基板之间的情况下，粘合剂层可以位于多层基板的任一侧。粘合剂层2120可以使标签能够被粘结到某些物品，诸如图6中的悬挂标签6100或图8中的产品8000。Various embodiments of wireless tags may include an adhesive layer for attachment to the product. In some embodiments, wireless tags may be attached or otherwise disposed on products or product packaging. This attachment may be aided by one or more adhesive layers. Adhesive layer embodiments may include various types of glues, tapes, adhesives, waxes, slimes, pastes, epoxies, sealants, elastomers, and other suitable materials that may promote bonding between surfaces . By way of example, referring to Figure 2, label 1100 may include a substrate 2120 supporting its electronic components, and may further include an adhesive layer 2122, which may be located on a side of the substrate layer opposite the electronic components, or In cases where electronic components are packaged between two or more layer substrates, the adhesive layer can be located on either side of the multi-layer substrate. Adhesive layer 2120 may enable the label to be bonded to certain items, such as hanging label 6100 in FIG. 6 or product 8000 in FIG. 8 .
所公开的实施方案还可以包括至少一个材料层(诸如织物层)，所述至少一个材料层至少部分地封装无线标签，所述材料层被配置成通过缝合来附连。替代性地，标签可以通过粘结或结合到口袋中而连接到织物。织物可以包括可用于衣物、配饰或任何其他采用织物的物体的任何材料。织物可以是织造的、非织造的、纤维的或非纤维的。它可以包括任何合适的材料，包括但不限于丝绸、羊毛、亚麻、棉花、人造丝、尼龙、聚酯或无机材料以及橡胶、塑料、人造或天然材料、纺粘/水刺、水网布、干网布、湿网布、乙烯基、片材或任何其他层。在一些实施方案中，织物可以是柔性的或可变形的。Disclosed embodiments may also include at least one layer of material (such as a fabric layer) that at least partially encapsulates the wireless tag, the layer of material being configured to be attached by stitching. Alternatively, the tag can be attached to the fabric by gluing or incorporating into the pocket. Fabric can include any material that can be used in clothing, accessories, or any other object that utilizes fabric. Fabrics may be woven, nonwoven, fibrous or non-fibrous. It may include any suitable material including, but not limited to, silk, wool, linen, cotton, rayon, nylon, polyester or inorganic materials as well as rubber, plastic, artificial or natural materials, spunbond/spunlace, hydromesh, Dry mesh, wet mesh, vinyl, sheet or any other layer. In some embodiments, the fabric may be flexible or deformable.
在一些实施方案中，无线标签可以结合到材料层中。无线标签可以被部分地结合，其中无线标签的一部分可以被暴露或未被覆盖。替代性地，无线标签可以被完全地结合，其中无线标签可以被织物完全包围。在一些实施方案中，无线标签可以通过缝合来部分地或完全地结合到织物中。图3展示了织物中封装的无线标签的非限制性实施方案。例如，如所描绘的，标签1100被封装在织物口袋3000中。图5进一步展示了包含标签1100的织物口袋3000在产品5000(诸如衣物)上的放置。In some embodiments, wireless tags may be incorporated into layers of material. The wireless tag may be partially incorporated, where a portion of the wireless tag may be exposed or uncovered. Alternatively, the wireless tag can be completely incorporated, where the wireless tag can be completely surrounded by fabric. In some embodiments, wireless tags may be partially or fully incorporated into the fabric through sewing. Figure 3 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of a wireless tag encapsulated in fabric. For example, as depicted, tag 1100 is enclosed in fabric pocket 3000. Figure 5 further illustrates the placement of a fabric pocket 3000 containing a label 1100 on a product 5000, such as a garment.
如本文所使用的，部分地封装无线标签可以包括围绕无线标签定位至少一个材料层，使得无线标签相对于材料层以特定的点或区域固定。材料层可以包括织物、其他纺织品或可以通过缝合适当地附连到另一种材料上的任何其他材料，诸如皮革、橡胶、纸质材料等。通过举例的方式，图3展示了封装在织物口袋3000内的标签1100。然后，织物口袋3000可以被缝合到图5所描绘的夹克5000中，使得无线标签附连到夹克5000上。As used herein, partially encapsulating a wireless tag may include positioning at least one layer of material around the wireless tag such that the wireless tag is secured at a specific point or area relative to the layer of material. The material layer may include fabric, other textiles, or any other material that can be suitably attached to another material by stitching, such as leather, rubber, paper materials, etc. By way of example, FIG. 3 shows a label 1100 enclosed within a fabric pocket 3000. The fabric pocket 3000 may then be sewn into the jacket 5000 depicted in FIG. 5 such that the wireless tag is attached to the jacket 5000.
图4-图8展示了结合标签1100的产品的非限制性实施方案。例如，图4描绘了衣物，诸如具有衣物标签4100的连衣裙4000；衣物标签4100可以是护理标签(例如，带有清洗连衣裙4000的说明)和/或指明连衣裙4000的尺寸和品牌的标签。在图4的例子中，标签1100可以被缝合或以其他方式附连到衣物标签4100上。例如，标签1100可以封装在织物口袋3000内，所述织物口袋可以缝合到衣物标签4100上。4-8 illustrate non-limiting embodiments of products incorporating tags 1100. For example, FIG. 4 depicts a garment, such as a dress 4000, having a garment label 4100; the garment label 4100 may be a care label (eg, with instructions for cleaning the dress 4000) and/or a label indicating the size and brand of the dress 4000. In the example of Figure 4, tag 1100 may be sewn or otherwise attached to garment tag 4100. For example, tag 1100 may be enclosed within a fabric pocket 3000 that may be sewn to garment tag 4100.
图5描绘了封装在织物口袋3000内的示例性标签1100的实施方案，所述织物口袋被缝合到服装物品5000(例如夹克)中。图6描绘了悬挂标牌6100上的示例性标签1100，所述悬挂标牌可以附接到诸如一条裤子6000的产品上。在如图7所描绘的另一个非限制性实施方案中，标签1100可以通过被放置在T恤衫的层之间而附连到诸如T恤衫7000的产品上，使得标签1100可以从视野隐藏。作为另一个例子，如图8所描绘的，标签1100可以粘附到产品包装(诸如容器8000)上。衣物和容器只是为了说明的目的而展示的。如前所述，标签可以以几乎任何方式与几乎任何物品相关联。例如，如上所述，标签可以在包装的外侧或内侧粘附到产品包装上。在一些实施方案中，标签可以粘附到包装材料或包装的邻近于放置在包装内部的产品的另一个内部部分上。Figure 5 depicts an embodiment of an exemplary label 1100 enclosed within a fabric pocket 3000 that is sewn into an article of clothing 5000 (eg, a jacket). 6 depicts an exemplary label 1100 on a hanging tag 6100 that may be attached to a product such as a pair of pants 6000. In another non-limiting embodiment, as depicted in Figure 7, label 1100 can be attached to a product such as a T-shirt 7000 by being placed between layers of a T-shirt so that label 1100 can be hidden from view. As another example, as depicted in Figure 8, label 1100 may be adhered to product packaging (such as container 8000). Clothing and containers are shown for illustrative purposes only. As mentioned before, tags can be associated with almost any item in almost any way. For example, as mentioned above, the label can be adhered to the product packaging on the outside or inside of the package. In some embodiments, the label may be adhered to the packaging material or another interior portion of the package adjacent to the product placed inside the package.
图9和图10描绘了用于无线识别标签1100的示例性系统架构的框图。在一些实施方案中，示例性标签1100可以被配置成在多个频段中采集能量并且使用所采集的能量为其操作供能。例如，标签1100可以包括用于采集能量的一个天线、用于采集能量的两个天线、用于采集能量的三个天线、或者用于在期望数量的频段中采集能量的任何其他数量的天线。在一些实施方案中，标签1100可以被配置成在约900MHz WW ISM的频段(例如，在860MHz与960MHz之间的超高频RFID频段)中采集能量。例如，图9展示了标签1100的标签架构的实施方案，其中天线2112被调谐为接收低于1GHz的频率的能量(例如，约900MHz的频段中的能量)并将接收到的能量传送到900MHz采集器9012。另外地或替代性地，示例性标签可以被配置成在约2.4GHz WW ISM的频段中采集能量(例如，约2.45GHz的环境和有意的能量源，诸如蓝牙和Wi-Fi)。例如，图9所描绘的示例性标签架构可以另外包括天线2114，所述天线被调谐为接收约2.4GHz的频段中的能量并将接收到的能量传送到2.4GHz采集器9014。在一些实施方案中，所采集的能量可以被传送到功率管理器9010，所述功率管理器可以将能量存储在能量存储电路2108中或者提供所采集的能量来为从标签到一个或多个接收器的信号传输供能。9 and 10 depict block diagrams of exemplary system architectures for wireless identification tags 1100. In some implementations, the example tag 1100 may be configured to harvest energy in multiple frequency bands and use the harvested energy to power its operations. For example, tag 1100 may include one antenna for harvesting energy, two antennas for harvesting energy, three antennas for harvesting energy, or any other number of antennas for harvesting energy in a desired number of frequency bands. In some embodiments, tag 1100 may be configured to harvest energy in the frequency band of approximately 900 MHz WW ISM (eg, the ultra-high frequency RFID band between 860 MHz and 960 MHz). For example, Figure 9 illustrates an implementation of a tag architecture for tag 1100 in which antenna 2112 is tuned to receive energy at frequencies below 1 GHz (e.g., energy in the approximately 900 MHz frequency band) and transmit the received energy to a 900 MHz collection Device 9012. Additionally or alternatively, example tags may be configured to harvest energy in the frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz WW ISM (eg, ambient and intentional energy sources such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi at approximately 2.45 GHz). For example, the exemplary tag architecture depicted in FIG. 9 may additionally include an antenna 2114 tuned to receive energy in a frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz and transmit the received energy to a 2.4 GHz collector 9014. In some embodiments, the harvested energy may be transferred to a power manager 9010, which may store the energy in an energy storage circuit 2108 or provide the harvested energy to power a receiver from the tag to one or more receivers. The signal transmission of the device is powered.
在一些实施方案中，示例性无线通信标签1100可以包括至少一个发射器，所述至少一个发射器被配置成将信号从标签传输到一个或多个接收器。例如，标签1100可以在约2.4GHz WW ISM的频段中传输唯一ID信号(可选地，连同状态指示符和/或其他数据)。在一些实施方案中，被配置成采集能量的天线可以另外被配置成传输标签的信号。例如，图9所描绘的发射器2104可以被配置成使用天线2114传输具有约2.4GHz的频率的信号；因此，天线2114可以被配置成采集能量和传输标签信号两者。示例性标签1100可以另外包括开关9034，所述开关被配置成控制天线2114的行为并致使天线2114在传输模式与能量采集模式之间切换(例如，在发射器2104的信标控制器9030的控制下)。在一些替代实施方案中，示例性标签1100可以包括连接到与能量采集天线分离的附加天线的信号发射器。In some implementations, the exemplary wireless communication tag 1100 may include at least one transmitter configured to transmit signals from the tag to one or more receivers. For example, tag 1100 may transmit a unique ID signal (optionally along with status indicators and/or other data) in the frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz WW ISM. In some embodiments, an antenna configured to harvest energy may additionally be configured to transmit the tag's signal. For example, the transmitter 2104 depicted in Figure 9 may be configured to transmit signals having a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz using the antenna 2114; thus, the antenna 2114 may be configured to both harvest energy and transmit tag signals. Example tag 1100 may additionally include a switch 9034 configured to control the behavior of antenna 2114 and cause antenna 2114 to switch between transmission mode and energy harvesting mode (e.g., under control of beacon controller 9030 of transmitter 2104 Down). In some alternative embodiments, the example tag 1100 may include a signal transmitter connected to an additional antenna separate from the energy harvesting antenna.
在一些实施方案中，示例性无线通信标签1100可以包括至少一个天线，所述至少一个天线被配置成检测电磁场(包括由EAS系统生成的场)。在一些实施方案中，用于检测电磁场的天线可以包括至少一个线圈。例如，如图2和图9所描绘的，标签1100可以包括EAS线圈2110。另外地或替代性地，用于检测电磁场的其他类型的天线可以结合在标签1100中。标签1100可以包括用于检测电磁场的一个天线、用于检测电磁场的两个天线、用于检测电磁场的三个天线、或者用于检测期望数量的电磁场的任何其他数量的天线。In some implementations, the example wireless communication tag 1100 may include at least one antenna configured to detect electromagnetic fields (including fields generated by EAS systems). In some embodiments, an antenna for detecting electromagnetic fields may include at least one coil. For example, tag 1100 may include EAS coil 2110 as depicted in FIGS. 2 and 9 . Additionally or alternatively, other types of antennas for detecting electromagnetic fields may be incorporated into tag 1100 . Tag 1100 may include one antenna for detecting electromagnetic fields, two antennas for detecting electromagnetic fields, three antennas for detecting electromagnetic fields, or any other number of antennas for detecting a desired number of electromagnetic fields.
在一些实施方案中，EAS线圈2110可以被配置成检测在一个或多个预定频段中操作的电磁场。例如，EAS线圈2110可以被配置成检测7-13MHz之间的频段中的场和58-60kHz之间的频段中的场。如图10所展示的，EAS线圈2110可以包括由控制器9020控制的调谐电容器10200，以在用于检测第一频段(例如，7-13MHz)中的场的模式与用于检测第二频段(例如，58-60kHz)中的场的模式之间调谐线圈2110。在一些实施方案中，即使当线圈2110检测到入射的EAS场时，EAS线圈2110也可以被配置成不激活附近的EAS门。也就是说，与当接收到入射的EAS场时发出可检测信号(或产生可检测干扰)的传统EAS标签不同，线圈2110可以被配置成检测EAS场，而不发出将触发EAS门警报的信号。在一些实施方案中，EAS线圈2110可以检测入射电磁场，并且门检测电路2106可以确定所述场是否是从EAS门接收的(例如，所述场是否在7-13MHz或58-60kHz之间的频段中)。当检测到EAS场时，电路2106可以向控制器9020输出EAS检测信号，所述控制器可以响应于检测到EAS场而改变发射器2104的一个或多个信号传输参数，如下所述。In some embodiments, EAS coil 2110 may be configured to detect electromagnetic fields operating in one or more predetermined frequency bands. For example, the EAS coil 2110 may be configured to detect fields in the frequency band between 7-13 MHz and fields in the frequency band between 58-60 kHz. As shown in Figure 10, the EAS coil 2110 may include a tuning capacitor 10200 controlled by the controller 9020 to operate in a mode for detecting fields in a first frequency band (e.g., 7-13 MHz) and in a mode for detecting a second frequency band (e.g., 7-13 MHz). For example, the coil 2110 is tuned between modes of the field in 58-60kHz). In some embodiments, the EAS coil 2110 may be configured not to activate nearby EAS gates even when the coil 2110 detects an incident EAS field. That is, unlike traditional EAS tags that emit a detectable signal (or create detectable interference) when receiving an incident EAS field, coil 2110 can be configured to detect an EAS field without emitting a signal that would trigger an EAS door alarm. . In some embodiments, the EAS coil 2110 can detect an incident electromagnetic field, and the gate detection circuit 2106 can determine whether the field is received from an EAS gate (e.g., whether the field is in the frequency band between 7-13 MHz or 58-60 kHz middle). When an EAS field is detected, circuitry 2106 may output an EAS detection signal to controller 9020, which may change one or more signal transmission parameters of transmitter 2104 in response to detecting the EAS field, as described below.
如上所述，在多个频段中从多个来源采集能量可以为示例性标签提供几个好处。首先，不同的频段在不同的管辖区内可能具有不同的监管限制，如果在第一频段中没有足够的功率来采集，则允许标签在第二频段中补充其能量采集。此外，从多个来源采集能量还可以使示例性标签能够基于标签正在操作的环境来调整其行为，包括由发射器2104传输的ID信号。在一些实施方案中，标签的顶层控制器9020可以被配置成确定标签接收的能量类型，并基于接收的能量类型来控制发射器2104的操作。例如，控制器9020可以被配置成确定天线2112何时接收至少一个预定频段中的能量(例如，低于1GHz的频率中的能量或约900MHz的频段中的能量)，并且基于所述确定来控制发射器2104以第一传输模式操作。另外地或替代性地，控制器9020可以被配置成确定天线2114何时接收至少一个预定频段中的能量(例如，约2.4GHz的频段中的能量)，并且基于所述确定来控制发射器2104以第二传输模式操作。另外地或替代性地，控制器9020可以被配置成确定何时EAS线圈2110接收至少一个预定频段中的能量(例如，7-13MHz之间的频段中的能量和/或58-60kHz之间的频段中的能量)，并且基于所述确定来控制发射器2104以第三传输模式操作。有利地，标签可以被配置成基于入射能量的频率来识别其环境，并根据所识别的环境来调整其行为，包括发射器2104的控制参数。As discussed above, harvesting energy from multiple sources in multiple frequency bands can provide several benefits to the exemplary tags. First, different frequency bands may have different regulatory restrictions in different jurisdictions, allowing tags to supplement their energy harvesting in a second band if there is not enough power to harvest in the first band. Additionally, harvesting energy from multiple sources may also enable the example tag to adjust its behavior based on the environment in which the tag is operating, including the ID signal transmitted by the transmitter 2104. In some embodiments, the tag's top-level controller 9020 may be configured to determine the type of energy received by the tag and control the operation of the transmitter 2104 based on the type of energy received. For example, the controller 9020 may be configured to determine when the antenna 2112 receives energy in at least one predetermined frequency band (eg, energy in frequencies below 1 GHz or energy in a frequency band approximately 900 MHz) and control based on the determination Transmitter 2104 operates in a first transmission mode. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 9020 may be configured to determine when the antenna 2114 receives energy in at least one predetermined frequency band (eg, energy in a frequency band of about 2.4 GHz) and control the transmitter 2104 based on the determination Operate in the second transmission mode. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 9020 may be configured to determine when the EAS coil 2110 receives energy in at least one predetermined frequency band (e.g., energy in a frequency band between 7-13 MHz and/or 58-60 kHz). energy in the frequency band), and controlling the transmitter 2104 to operate in a third transmission mode based on the determination. Advantageously, the tag may be configured to identify its environment based on the frequency of incident energy and adjust its behavior, including the control parameters of the transmitter 2104, based on the identified environment.
在一些实施方案中，示例性标签可以被配置成本地存储能量(例如，在能量存储电路2108中)，并且在一些实施方案中仅传输其唯一ID信号(而不是例如具有大量数据的信号)。这可以将操作发射器所需的功率量以及标签的整体数字内容降低到比现有电池驱动设备低得多的水平。例如，示例性标签在活动状态下(例如，当发射器2104传输一个或多个信号时)可能消耗大约500μA或更少，并且可能仅需要毫微安量级的空闲电流。另外地或替代性地，示例性标签可以被配置成向发射器2104供能，以仅使用采集的能量以大约-10dBm有源地传输非同步蓝牙低功耗(BLE)信号，而不需要电池或其他电源。前述例子仅用于非限制性说明目的。使用明显更多或更少能量的设备也在本公开文本的范围内。In some embodiments, the exemplary tag may be configured to store energy locally (eg, in energy storage circuitry 2108), and in some embodiments transmit only its unique ID signal (rather than, for example, a signal with a large amount of data). This reduces the amount of power required to operate the transmitter, as well as the overall digital content of the tag, to much lower levels than existing battery-powered devices. For example, an exemplary tag may consume approximately 500 μA or less in an active state (eg, when transmitter 2104 is transmitting one or more signals), and may only require idle current on the order of nanoamps. Additionally or alternatively, the example tag may be configured to power the transmitter 2104 to actively transmit an asynchronous Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signal at approximately -10 dBm using only harvested energy without the need for a battery or other power source. The foregoing examples are provided for non-limiting illustrative purposes only. Devices that use significantly more or less energy are also within the scope of this disclosure.
有利的是，低水平的所需功率可以使标签的发射器2104能够实现10米或更大的传输范围，并且在标签传输非同步BLE信号的实施方案中，可以比由RFID设备传输的信号更可靠地接收标签的传输信号。这主要是因为在RFID协议中使用了反向散射接收技术，与BLE等其他通信协议相比，反向散射接收技术对环境干扰、反射和阻塞更加敏感。例如，在一些实施方案中，接收示例性无线通信标签的传输的阅读器可以实现-93至-96dBm之间的接收器灵敏度水平，这比现有的RFID阅读器芯片好大约10dB。Advantageously, the low level of required power may enable the tag's transmitter 2104 to achieve a transmission range of 10 meters or more, and in embodiments where the tag transmits an asynchronous BLE signal, may be longer than the signal transmitted by the RFID device. Reliably receive the tag's transmission signal. This is mainly due to the use of backscatter reception technology in the RFID protocol, which is more sensitive to environmental interference, reflection and blocking compared with other communication protocols such as BLE. For example, in some embodiments, a reader receiving transmissions from an exemplary wireless communication tag can achieve a receiver sensitivity level between -93 and -96dBm, which is approximately 10dB better than existing RFID reader chips.
图11是被配置成与无线识别标签1100一起使用的示例性无线识别系统11000的网络图。通过举例的方式，无线识别系统11000可以建立在至少一个零售场所内，或以其他方式与至少一个零售场所相关联。系统11000可以包括网络11002，所述网络可以实现在系统的元件(诸如，一个或多个处理器11004、一个或多个数据结构11006、一个或多个用户设备11008以及一个或多个接收器11300a-g)之间的数据和/或信息交换。网络11002可以包括被配置用于交换数据的任何类型的有线和/或无线计算机网络布置。11 is a network diagram of an exemplary wireless identification system 11000 configured for use with a wireless identification tag 1100. By way of example, wireless identification system 11000 may be established within or otherwise associated with at least one retail location. System 11000 may include a network 11002 that may be implemented among elements of the system, such as one or more processors 11004, one or more data structures 11006, one or more user devices 11008, and one or more receivers 11300a - exchange of data and/or information between Network 11002 may include any type of wired and/or wireless computer network arrangement configured for exchanging data.
在一些实施方案中，系统11000可以包括至少一个处理器11004，所述至少一个处理器被配置成：接收、存储和处理与无线识别标签1100有关的信息；接收和执行查询和搜索；与数据库(例如，一个或多个数据结构11006)和/或网络通信；向用户中继信息(例如，经由一个或多个用户设备11008)；提供通知；和/或提供警告等。至少一个处理器11004可以包括具有对一个或多个输入执行逻辑运算的电路系统的任何物理设备或设备组，诸如集成电路(IC)、专用集成电路(ASIC)、微芯片、微控制器、微处理器、中央处理单元(CPU)的全部或部分、图形处理单元(GPU)、数字信号处理器(DSP)、现场可编程门阵列(FPGA)、服务器、虚拟服务器、或适用于执行指令或执行逻辑运算的其他电路。由至少一个处理器11004执行的指令可以例如预加载到与控制器集成或嵌入控制器中的存储器中，或者可以存储在单独的存储器中，诸如一个或多个数据结构11006。In some embodiments, system 11000 may include at least one processor 11004 configured to: receive, store, and process information related to wireless identification tag 1100; receive and perform queries and searches; and interact with a database ( For example, one or more data structures 11006) and/or network communications; relaying information to the user (e.g., via one or more user devices 11008); providing notifications; and/or providing warnings, etc. At least one processor 11004 may include any physical device or group of devices having circuitry that performs logical operations on one or more inputs, such as an integrated circuit (IC), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), microchip, microcontroller, microcontroller, Processor, all or part of a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), digital signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), server, virtual server, or otherwise adapted to execute instructions or perform Other circuits for logic operations. Instructions executed by at least one processor 11004 may, for example, be preloaded into memory integrated with or embedded in the controller, or may be stored in separate memory, such as one or more data structures 11006 .
无线识别系统11000可以包括至少一个数据结构11006。在一些公开的实施方案中，数据结构11006可以包括至少一个数据库，诸如用于存储与特定设施或商店有关的本地信息的本地数据库、地区数据库或全局数据库。数据结构11006可以被配置成存储数据，所述数据包括但不限于：与电子标签(诸如无线标签1100)有关的信息、加密的标签ID、与特定标签1100对应或相关联的产品的信息、产品位置、所有权历史、交易历史、所有者信息、制造商信息、特定标签1100的解密的标签ID、与特定标签1100相关联的加密密钥、多个无线标签1100的库存、多个无线标签1100的标签ID、或与每个标签ID相关联的产品ID。存储在数据结构11006中的信息可以由一个或多个处理器11004直接或间接地通过网络11002访问。Wireless identification system 11000 may include at least one data structure 11006. In some disclosed embodiments, data structure 11006 may include at least one database, such as a local database, a regional database, or a global database for storing local information related to a particular facility or store. Data structure 11006 may be configured to store data including, but not limited to: information related to an electronic tag (such as wireless tag 1100), an encrypted tag ID, information about a product corresponding to or associated with a particular tag 1100, a product Location, ownership history, transaction history, owner information, manufacturer information, decrypted tag ID of a particular tag 1100 , encryption key associated with a particular tag 1100 , inventory of multiple wireless tags 1100 , inventory of multiple wireless tags 1100 Tag ID, or product ID associated with each tag ID. Information stored in data structures 11006 may be accessed by one or more processors 11004 directly or indirectly through network 11002 .
无线识别系统11000可以包括多个接收器11300a-h，所述多个接收器被配置成从无线标签1100接收信号的广播并且与网络11002交换数据和/或信息。接收器11300a-h可以被配置成从标签1100接收一个或多个识别信号，并且将接收到的识别信号的数据(例如，由识别信号指定的标签ID和/或信号的强度或功率水平)传输到网络11002。在一些实施方案中，并且如上文所讨论的，接收器11300a-h还可以被配置为用于递送将由无线标签1100收集和存储的能量的激励器。然而，普通技术人员将理解，示例性系统11000可以包括接收器/激励器设备(诸如设备1124)、单独的接收器设备和激励器设备、或其任何期望的组合。Wireless identification system 11000 may include a plurality of receivers 11300a - h configured to receive broadcasts of signals from wireless tags 1100 and exchange data and/or information with network 11002 . Receivers 11300a-h may be configured to receive one or more identification signals from tag 1100 and transmit data for the received identification signals (e.g., the tag ID specified by the identification signal and/or the strength or power level of the signal) Go to network 11002. In some embodiments, and as discussed above, receivers 11300a-h may also be configured as exciters for delivering energy to be collected and stored by wireless tag 1100. However, one of ordinary skill will understand that example system 11000 may include a receiver/exciter device (such as device 1124), separate receiver devices and exciter devices, or any desired combination thereof.
无线识别系统11000可以包括被配置用于与网络11002有线和/或无线通信的至少一个用户设备11008。用户设备11008可以包括蜂窝电话、智能电话、平板电脑、台式机、膝上型计算机、PDA、手持式扫描仪、可穿戴设备、或具有用于控制设备11008的操作的计算机程序(应用的例子)的其他移动计算设备。用户设备11008可以被配置成接收用户输入并且将对应的信号传输到网络11002。另外地或替代性地，用户设备11008可以包括至少一个用户界面11010，所述至少一个用户界面被配置成向用户输出通知信号(诸如可听信号、视觉信号、触觉信号或另一感觉信号)；用户界面11010的例子可以包括显示屏或扬声器。Wireless identification system 11000 may include at least one user device 11008 configured for wired and/or wireless communication with network 11002. User device 11008 may include a cellular phone, smartphone, tablet, desktop, laptop, PDA, handheld scanner, wearable device, or have a computer program for controlling the operation of device 11008 (examples of applications) of other mobile computing devices. User device 11008 may be configured to receive user input and transmit corresponding signals to network 11002 . Additionally or alternatively, user device 11008 may include at least one user interface 11010 configured to output a notification signal (such as an audible signal, a visual signal, a tactile signal, or another sensory signal) to the user; Examples of user interface 11010 may include a display screen or speakers.
例如，用户可以通过使用设备11008扫描与产品相关联的无线标签1100来创建关于零售场所中的特定产品的查询。用户设备11008可以经由网络11002向处理器11004传输查询。处理器11004然后可以在数据结构11006中执行查找和定位与所扫描的标签1100有关的信息；所述信息可以包括例如产品的尺寸和颜色、价格数据、零售场所内的位置、制造历史、洗涤指令、产品图像、或产品的任何其他特性。与所扫描的标签1100有关的信息可以经由网络11002传输到用户设备11008并经由用户界面11010输出给用户。For example, a user may create a query about a specific product in a retail location by using device 11008 to scan a wireless tag 1100 associated with the product. User device 11008 may transmit a query to processor 11004 via network 11002. The processor 11004 may then perform a lookup and locate information in the data structure 11006 related to the scanned tag 1100; the information may include, for example, the size and color of the product, pricing data, location within the retail establishment, manufacturing history, laundering instructions , product images, or any other features of the product. Information related to the scanned tags 1100 may be transmitted to the user device 11008 via the network 11002 and output to the user via the user interface 11010 .
图12是在无线识别标签1100中的用于采集和存储环境能量的部件的框图。如上文所讨论的，无线标签1100可以包括能量存储电路2108，所述能量存储电路具有被配置成存储由标签1100采集的环境能量的存储电容器10300。标签1100还可以包括900MHz采集器9012，所述采集器被配置成在约900MHz WW ISM的频段(例如，在860MHz与960MHz之间的超高频RFID频段)中采集能量。另外地或替代性地，标签1100可以包括2.4GHz采集器9014，所述采集器被配置成在约2.4GHz WW ISM的频段中采集能量(例如，约2.45GHz的环境和有意的能量源，诸如蓝牙和Wi-Fi)。存储电容器10300可以通过图12所展示的电路系统电连接到900MHz采集器9012和2.4GHz采集器9014，以便存储由那些采集器接收的环境能量。虽然在图12中展示为单个电容器，但是可以存在多个存储电容器来用于存储环境能量。FIG. 12 is a block diagram of components in wireless identification tag 1100 for harvesting and storing ambient energy. As discussed above, wireless tag 1100 may include an energy storage circuit 2108 having a storage capacitor 10300 configured to store ambient energy harvested by tag 1100 . Tag 1100 may also include a 900 MHz collector 9012 configured to harvest energy in the frequency band of approximately 900 MHz WW ISM (eg, the ultra-high frequency RFID band between 860 MHz and 960 MHz). Additionally or alternatively, tag 1100 may include a 2.4 GHz harvester 9014 configured to harvest energy in the frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz WW ISM (eg, approximately 2.45 GHz of ambient and intentional energy sources such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi). A storage capacitor 10300 may be electrically connected to the 900 MHz harvester 9012 and the 2.4 GHz harvester 9014 via the circuitry shown in Figure 12 to store ambient energy received by those harvesters. Although shown as a single capacitor in Figure 12, multiple storage capacitors may be present for storing ambient energy.
标签1100可以另外地包括设置在900MHz采集器9012与能量存储电路2108之间的转移电容器12100和12102，以及设置在2.4GHz采集器9014与能量存储电路2108之间的转移电容器12104和12106。转移电容器12100-12106还可以被配置用于收集和存储由标签1100采集的环境能量。转移电容器12100-12106中的至少一个可以具有比存储电容器10300低的电容：在一些实施方案中，转移电容器12100-12106中的至少一个的电容可以小于1nF(例如，小于100pF)，而存储电容器10300可以被配置成具有至少10nF(例如，至少100nF)的电容。Tag 1100 may additionally include transfer capacitors 12100 and 12102 disposed between the 900 MHz harvester 9012 and the energy storage circuit 2108, and transfer capacitors 12104 and 12106 disposed between the 2.4 GHz harvester 9014 and the energy storage circuit 2108. Transfer capacitors 12100-12106 may also be configured to collect and store ambient energy harvested by tag 1100. At least one of transfer capacitors 12100 - 12106 may have a lower capacitance than storage capacitor 10300 : In some embodiments, at least one of transfer capacitors 12100 - 12106 may have a capacitance less than 1 nF (eg, less than 100 pF), whereas storage capacitor 10300 Can be configured to have a capacitance of at least 10 nF (eg, at least 100 nF).
在各种实施方案中，图12所描绘的电路系统可以将采集器9012和9014、存储电容器10300和转移电容器12100-12106互连，其方式为使得由采集器9012和9014中的任一个所采集的环境能量可以初始地存储在转移电容器12100-12106中的至少一个中，并且随后被转移到并存储在存储电容器10300中。在一些实施方案中，约900MHz的环境能量可以由采集器9012收集并且初始地存储在转移电容器12100和12102中的一个或两个中。例如，转移电容器12100可以收集环境能量直到其充满，并且然后转移电容器12102可以开始收集环境能量。替代性地，转移电容器12100和12102可以轮流收集环境能量。转移电容器12104和12106的操作可以基本上类似于转移电容器12100和12102的操作，并且也可以轮流收集环境能量。因此，在各种实施方案中，转移电容器12100-12106可以被配置用于临时存储以电能形式收集的环境能量，并且存储电容器10300可以被配置为以电能形式收集的环境能量的主存储器。In various embodiments, the circuitry depicted in Figure 12 can interconnect collectors 9012 and 9014, storage capacitor 10300, and transfer capacitors 12100-12106 in a manner such that the data collected by any one of collectors 9012 and 9014 of ambient energy may be initially stored in at least one of transfer capacitors 12100-12106 and subsequently transferred to and stored in storage capacitor 10300. In some embodiments, ambient energy at approximately 900 MHz may be collected by harvester 9012 and initially stored in one or both of transfer capacitors 12100 and 12102. For example, transfer capacitor 12100 may collect ambient energy until it is full, and then transfer capacitor 12102 may begin collecting ambient energy. Alternatively, transfer capacitors 12100 and 12102 may take turns collecting ambient energy. The operation of transfer capacitors 12104 and 12106 may be substantially similar to the operation of transfer capacitors 12100 and 12102, and may also take turns to collect ambient energy. Thus, in various embodiments, transfer capacitors 12100-12106 may be configured to temporarily store ambient energy collected in the form of electrical energy, and storage capacitor 10300 may be configured as a primary storage of ambient energy harvested in the form of electrical energy.
在一些实施方案中，标签1100可以包括将存储电容器10300和转移电容器12100-12106互连的电感器12140。电感器12140、存储电容器10300和转移电容器12100-12106可以通过一系列开关互连，所述一系列开关被配置成将这些部件彼此连接/断开。如图12所展示的，标签1100可以包括：开关12120和12122，所述开关被配置成将900MHz采集器9012连接到转移电容器12100和12102中的一个；开关12124和12126，所述开关被配置成将2.4GHz采集器9014连接到转移电容器12104和12106中的一个；开关12130和12132，所述开关被配置成将电感器12140连接到转移电容器12100、12102、12104和12106中的一个；以及开关12134，所述开关被配置成将电感器12140与存储电容器10300连接/断开。In some implementations, tag 1100 may include an inductor 12140 interconnecting storage capacitor 10300 and transfer capacitors 12100-12106. Inductor 12140, storage capacitor 10300, and transfer capacitors 12100-12106 may be interconnected by a series of switches configured to connect/disconnect these components to each other. As shown in Figure 12, tag 1100 may include switches 12120 and 12122 configured to connect 900 MHz collector 9012 to one of transfer capacitors 12100 and 12102; switches 12124 and 12126 configured to Connect 2.4 GHz collector 9014 to one of transfer capacitors 12104 and 12106; switches 12130 and 12132 configured to connect inductor 12140 to one of transfer capacitors 12100, 12102, 12104, and 12106; and switch 12134 , the switch is configured to connect/disconnect the inductor 12140 to the storage capacitor 10300.
开关12130和12132可以在转移电容器中收集的环境能量正在被转移用于存储在存储电容器10300的时间段期间连接转移电容器12100-12106和电感器12140。在转移时段结束时，开关12130和12132可以将转移电容器与电感器12140断开，以防止能量回流到转移电容器。转移时段的结束可以基于转移电容器12100-12106和电感器12140的LC特性，定时使得当转移时段结束时，来自转移电容器12100-12106的大部分能量已经流到电感器12140。Switches 12130 and 12132 may connect transfer capacitors 12100 - 12106 and inductor 12140 during the time period during which ambient energy collected in the transfer capacitor is being transferred for storage in storage capacitor 10300 . At the end of the transfer period, switches 12130 and 12132 can disconnect the transfer capacitor from the inductor 12140 to prevent energy from flowing back to the transfer capacitor. The end of the transfer period may be based on the LC characteristics of transfer capacitors 12100-12106 and inductor 12140, timed so that when the transfer period ends, most of the energy from transfer capacitors 12100-12106 has flowed to inductor 12140.
包括由前述开关连接的电感器12140作为转移电容器12100-12106与存储电容器10300之间的媒介，可以通过帮助隔离存储电容器10300来缓解不希望的能量放电的问题。例如，在不存在电感器12140的情况下，来自一个电容器(例如，存储电容器10300)的能量将流到另一个电容器(例如，转移电容器12100-12106中的至少一个)，直到电容器的电压均衡为止。这种情况导致低效的能量存储，因为存储电容器10300的电压将受到转移电容器12100-12106中的至少一个的电压的限制，这进而将限制存储电容器10300可以存储的能量的量(因为，如果存储电容器的电压高于转移电容器，能量将从存储电容器流出并流入转移电容器以均衡电压)。通过提供电感器12140，可以出现不同的能量转移机制。Including the inductor 12140 connected by the aforementioned switch as an intermediary between the transfer capacitors 12100-12106 and the storage capacitor 10300 may alleviate the problem of undesired energy discharge by helping to isolate the storage capacitor 10300. For example, in the absence of inductor 12140, energy from one capacitor (e.g., storage capacitor 10300) will flow to another capacitor (e.g., at least one of transfer capacitors 12100-12106) until the voltages across the capacitors are equalized . This situation results in inefficient energy storage because the voltage of storage capacitor 10300 will be limited by the voltage of at least one of transfer capacitors 12100-12106, which in turn will limit the amount of energy that storage capacitor 10300 can store (because, if stored The capacitor has a higher voltage than the transfer capacitor and energy will flow out of the storage capacitor and into the transfer capacitor to equalize the voltage). By providing an inductor 12140, different energy transfer mechanisms can occur.
在一些实施方案中，电感器12140和存储电容器10300当连接在一起时可以形成谐波振荡器，使得存储电容器10300的能量可以在开关12134闭合时作为振荡在电感器与电容器之间流动。利用振荡，开关12134可以被定时成当大部分能量已经从电感器12140流到存储电容器10300时将电感器12140与存储电容器10300断开，从而将大部分能量捕获在存储电容器中。In some embodiments, inductor 12140 and storage capacitor 10300 can form a harmonic oscillator when connected together, such that energy from storage capacitor 10300 can flow as an oscillation between the inductor and capacitor when switch 12134 is closed. Using oscillation, switch 12134 can be timed to disconnect inductor 12140 from storage capacitor 10300 when most of the energy has flowed from inductor 12140 to storage capacitor 10300, trapping most of the energy in the storage capacitor.
利用这种配置，能量可以从转移电容器12100-12106连续地转移到存储电容器10300，即使存储电容器具有比转移电容器更高的电压水平也是如此。电感器12130可以经由开关12134连接到存储电容器10300。当开关12130和12132将电感器12140连接到转移电容器12100-12106中的任何一个时，存储在这些电容器中的能量可以经由如前所述的振荡通过仔细的开关定时转移到电感器12140。类似地，电感器12140可以随后经由振荡将其能量转移到存储电容器10300。With this configuration, energy can be continuously transferred from transfer capacitors 12100-12106 to storage capacitor 10300, even if the storage capacitor has a higher voltage level than the transfer capacitor. Inductor 12130 may be connected to storage capacitor 10300 via switch 12134. When switches 12130 and 12132 connect inductor 12140 to any of the transfer capacitors 12100-12106, the energy stored in these capacitors can be transferred to inductor 12140 via careful switch timing via oscillation as previously described. Similarly, inductor 12140 may then transfer its energy to storage capacitor 10300 via oscillation.
根据一些实施方案，无线识别标签1100可以包括至少一个电路，所述至少一个电路被配置成生成控制信号，以命令开关12120-12126、12130/12132和12134的开关操作。前述电路可以被设计成生成具有特定定时的控制信号，使得环境能量可以从采集器9012和9014转移到转移电容器12100-12106、然后转移到电感器12140、并然后转移到存储电容器10300。According to some embodiments, wireless identification tag 1100 may include at least one circuit configured to generate control signals to command switching operations of switches 12120-12126, 12130/12132, and 12134. The aforementioned circuitry can be designed to generate control signals with specific timing so that ambient energy can be transferred from harvesters 9012 and 9014 to transfer capacitors 12100-12106, then to inductor 12140, and then to storage capacitor 10300.
图13A是零售场所的透视图，所述零售场所可以包含多个物品13210，每个物品可以固定到无线标签1100或以其他方式与所述无线标签相关联。在这个示例性场所内，可以存在一个或多个位置被指定用于特定目的，诸如特定物品的储存和/或展示或者与场所运营有关的其他活动的便利。例如，场所可以包含架子13250和货架13240，它们被指定用于存储和/或展示特定物品，诸如特定的服装物品。场所还可以包含其他位置，诸如试衣间13230，这些位置不与物品的储存和/或展示相关联，但是使顾客能够在场所内进行某些活动，诸如试穿不同的服装物品。所公开的实施方案可以提供使得能够例如识别和购买特定物品13210的系统(诸如图11中的无线识别系统11000)和方法。13A is a perspective view of a retail location that may contain multiple items 13210, each of which may be affixed to or otherwise associated with a wireless tag 1100. Within this exemplary venue, there may be one or more locations designated for specific purposes, such as the storage and/or display of specific items or the facilitation of other activities related to the operation of the venue. For example, a location may contain racks 13250 and racks 13240 that are designated for storing and/or displaying specific items, such as specific items of clothing. The venue may also contain other locations, such as fitting rooms 13230, that are not associated with the storage and/or display of items, but enable customers to perform certain activities within the venue, such as trying on different clothing items. The disclosed embodiments may provide systems (such as wireless identification system 11000 in Figure 11) and methods that enable, for example, the identification and purchase of specific items 13210.
图13B-图13D描绘了图13A所展示的零售空间内的无线通信标签的示例性操作模式。应当理解，下面讨论的主题仅仅是示例性的，而不应被视为限制性的。下面讨论的原则适用于前面列出的许多其他平台。图13B展示了在本文被称为“基础设施可激励模式”的第一模式(其例子可以包括商店模式)下操作的标签1100。图13C展示了在本文被称为“用户可激励模式”的第二模式(其例子可以包括物联网(IoT)模式)下操作的标签1100。图13D展示了在本文被称为“门模式”的第三模式下操作的标签1100。Figures 13B-13D depict exemplary modes of operation of wireless communication tags within the retail space illustrated in Figure 13A. It should be understood that the topics discussed below are illustrative only and should not be considered limiting. The principles discussed below apply to many of the other platforms listed previously. Figure 13B illustrates tag 1100 operating in a first mode referred to herein as "infrastructure incentivized mode" (examples of which may include store mode). Figure 13C illustrates tag 1100 operating in a second mode referred to herein as a "user-activatable mode" (examples of which may include an Internet of Things (IoT) mode). Figure 13D shows tag 1100 operating in a third mode, referred to herein as "gate mode."
标签1100可以被配置成当标签由环境激励器(诸如布置在整个场所中的激励器13400)供能时在图13B的基础设施可激励模式下操作。例如，在这种模式下，储存或呈现以供销售的货物的位置可以跟踪其库存。每个物品上的每个标签都可以广播一个ID，让系统知道它仍然存在于场所中。位置跟踪还可以增强这样的系统，以便不仅跟踪物品的存在，而且还跟踪其位置。例如，接收到的ID信号的强度可以指示物品相对于特定接收器的大致位置，或者多个接收可以用于基于例如三角测量来识别更精确的位置。存储在系统数据库中的附加信息可以为用户提供附加值。例如，物品的移动或所有权的历史可以与物品的特性一起存储在数据库中。因此，当与关于物品的预存储数据结合时，来自标签的单个ID的传输可以为用户提供丰富的信息。在一些实施方案中，附加的特征数据可以存储在标签上用于传输。Tag 1100 may be configured to operate in the infrastructure energizable mode of Figure 13B when the tag is powered by an environmental energizer, such as energizer 13400 positioned throughout the venue. For example, in this model, a location where goods are stored or presented for sale can track their inventory. Each tag on each item can broadcast an ID to let the system know it is still present on the premises. Location tracking can also enhance such a system to track not only the presence of an item, but also its location. For example, the strength of the received ID signal can indicate the approximate location of the item relative to a specific receiver, or multiple receptions can be used to identify a more precise location based on, for example, triangulation. Additional information stored in the system database can provide added value to the user. For example, the history of an item's movement or ownership can be stored in a database along with the item's characteristics. Therefore, when combined with pre-stored data about the item, the transmission of a single ID from a tag can provide rich information to the user. In some embodiments, additional characterization data may be stored on the tag for transmission.
虽然图13B仅展示了单个激励器，但是标签1100可以由多个激励器同时供能。激励器13400(包括例如激励器13400d)可以被配置成在860-960MHz之间的RFID频段中向标签递送能量13118a。另外地或替代性地，标签1100可以从具有约900MHz频率的其他源接收能量。能量13118a可以由天线2112接收，并且可以存储在能量存储电路2108中，以给标签的操作供能。Although Figure 13B only shows a single energizer, tag 1100 can be powered by multiple energizers simultaneously. Exciters 13400 (including, for example, exciter 13400d) may be configured to deliver energy 13118a to tags in the RFID frequency band between 860-960 MHz. Additionally or alternatively, tag 1100 may receive energy from other sources having a frequency of approximately 900 MHz. Energy 13118a may be received by antenna 2112 and may be stored in energy storage circuitry 2108 to power operation of the tag.
当基础设施可激励模式被触发时，标签1100可以控制发射器2104以低重复周期在约2.4GHz的频段中广播标签的ID信号13102。例如，标签可以以10分钟的最小重复周期传输ID信号13102，加上最多五分钟的随机周期，导致平均每12.5分钟广播一次。替代性地，标签的重复周期可以更长或更短(例如，少于五分钟、几小时或几天)。在一些情况下，ID信号13102的传输可以具有约300μs的持续时间；然而，在替代实施方案中，传输持续时间可以更长或更短。When the infrastructure excitable mode is triggered, the tag 1100 may control the transmitter 2104 to broadcast the tag's ID signal 13102 in a frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz with a low repetition period. For example, a tag may transmit ID signal 13102 with a minimum repetition period of 10 minutes, plus a random period of up to five minutes, resulting in an average broadcast every 12.5 minutes. Alternatively, the tag's repetition period may be longer or shorter (eg, less than five minutes, hours, or days). In some cases, transmission of ID signal 13102 may have a duration of approximately 300 μs; however, in alternative embodiments, the transmission duration may be longer or shorter.
在图13A-图13D所展示的例子中，多个接收器11300a-h可以布置在整个场所中，并且被配置成从场所内或接近于场所的所有无线通信标签接收ID信号13102的广播。因为发射器2104可以具有10米或更大的广播范围(例如，在一些情况下15米或更大)，所以在一些情况下，传输的ID信号13102可以被多个接收器11300e和11300f接收，从而降低信号误检测的概率。在其他情况下，一个接收器可以接收ID信号13102的广播。当接收器从标签接收到ID信号13102时，所述信号可以被中继到一个或多个处理器(诸如场所内的处理器和/或远程平台服务器)以用于处理、分析和/或存储。如上所讨论的，示例性系统可以另外地或替代性地包括一个或多个接收器/激励器设备，诸如设备1124，所述设备可以被配置成向无线通信标签递送能量13118a(类似于激励器13400)，并且从无线通信标签接收ID信号13102的广播(类似于接收器11300)；也就是说，设备1124可以同时充当激励器和接收器。在一些替代实施方案(诸如图13A所展示的实施方案)中，激励器13400和接收器11300可以被配置为单独的设备。In the example shown in Figures 13A-13D, multiple receivers 11300a-h may be positioned throughout a venue and configured to receive broadcasts of ID signals 13102 from all wireless communication tags within or close to the venue. Because transmitter 2104 may have a broadcast range of 10 meters or more (e.g., in some cases 15 meters or more), in some cases transmitted ID signal 13102 may be received by multiple receivers 11300e and 11300f, This reduces the probability of false signal detection. In other cases, a receiver may receive the broadcast of ID signal 13102. When the receiver receives the ID signal 13102 from the tag, the signal may be relayed to one or more processors (such as an on-site processor and/or a remote platform server) for processing, analysis, and/or storage . As discussed above, the example system may additionally or alternatively include one or more receiver/exciter devices, such as device 1124, which may be configured to deliver energy 13118a (similar to exciter 13400), and receives the broadcast of the ID signal 13102 from the wireless communication tag (similar to the receiver 11300); that is, the device 1124 can act as both an exciter and a receiver. In some alternative implementations, such as the one shown in Figure 13A, exciter 13400 and receiver 11300 may be configured as separate devices.
在同一场所内使用多个无线识别标签的实施方案中，对于标签可以使用BLE标准中的三个或更多个信道(在2.400-2.4835GHz WW ISM之间)以向接收器广播其相应的ID信号。例如，每个标签可以在每次传输中随机选择三个广告信道中的一个，或者在每次传输中随机选择三个广告信道中的两个，或者在每次传输中在三个广告信道中的一个与三个之间随机选择。多个信道的这种使用，结合每个信号传输的短持续时间和低重复周期，可以最小化不同标签传输之间冲突的可能性。此外，由于信号传输的不频繁和每次传输所需的少量功率，每个标签可以在基础设施可激励模式下保存采集的能量。In embodiments where multiple wireless identification tags are used within the same premises, three or more channels in the BLE standard (between 2.400-2.4835GHz WW ISM) may be used for the tags to broadcast their corresponding IDs to receivers Signal. For example, each tag can randomly select one of the three advertising channels in each transmission, or randomly select two of the three advertising channels in each transmission, or randomly select among the three advertising channels in each transmission. Choose randomly between one and three. This use of multiple channels, combined with the short duration and low repetition period of each signal transmission, can minimize the possibility of collisions between different tag transmissions. Furthermore, due to the infrequency of signal transmissions and the small amount of power required for each transmission, each tag can conserve harvested energy in infrastructure excitable mode.
标签1100可以被配置成当标签从环境和有意的2.4GHz源(诸如蓝牙和Wi-Fi设备)接收能量时，在图13C的用户可激励模式下操作。在一些实施方案中，用户可以通过用2.4GHz设备扫描标签来触发与带标签的物品13210相关联的标签1100中的用户可激励模式，所述设备诸如是智能电话、平板电脑或被配置成向标签传输2.4GHz触发信号13118b的任何其他用户设备11008。这可以准许用户基于对物品标签的扫描来接收关于物品13210的信息。例如，当扫描发生时，ID可以被传输到服务器(例如，经由网络基础设施或者经由用户控制的设备中的接收器/发射器)。然后，服务器可以执行对信息的查找，并将其传输到用户的设备。用户可能能够定义所请求的信息的类型，以根据用户的需求定制输出。在替代实施方案中，相关数据可能已经存储在用户的设备上，并且查找可以发生在用户的设备上，而不是被发送到服务器进行分析。Tag 1100 may be configured to operate in the user-activatable mode of Figure 13C when the tag receives energy from the environment and intentional 2.4 GHz sources such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices. In some embodiments, a user can trigger a user-activatable mode in tag 1100 associated with tagged item 13210 by scanning the tag with a 2.4 GHz device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or device configured to Tag any other user device 11008 transmitting 2.4GHz trigger signal 13118b. This may permit the user to receive information about item 13210 based on a scan of the item's tag. For example, when a scan occurs, the ID may be transmitted to a server (eg, via the network infrastructure or via a receiver/transmitter in a user-controlled device). The server can then perform a lookup of the information and transmit it to the user's device. Users may be able to define the type of information requested to tailor the output to the user's needs. In alternative embodiments, the relevant data may already be stored on the user's device, and the lookup may occur on the user's device rather than being sent to a server for analysis.
在图13C所示的例子中，用户可以在零售场所内(例如，使用用户设备11008)激活标签1100中的用户可激励模式；然而，用户可激励模式可以在其他位置和环境中被触发，诸如当用户使用他们的智能电话在家中扫描物品(或他们壁橱中的物品货架)时，或者在手动库存扫描期间(例如，在仓库或其他储存设施中)。In the example shown in Figure 13C, the user may activate the user-actuable mode in tag 1100 within a retail location (e.g., using user device 11008); however, the user-activatable mode may be triggered in other locations and environments, such as When users use their smartphones to scan items at home (or on shelves of items in their closets), or during manual inventory scans (e.g., in a warehouse or other storage facility).
当用户可激励模式被触发时，标签1100可以采集入射的2.4GHz能量来给能量存储电路2108充电。另外地，当标签1100确定2.4GHz能量被天线2114接收到时，发射器2104可以在约2.4GHz的频段中传输ID信号13102。然而，信标控制器9030可以将ID信号的重复周期调整为比基础设施可激励模式中的ID信号的重复周期快得多。例如，发射器2104可以在天线2114接收到2.4GHz信号13118b后不到10秒的时间内广播ID信号13102(信号持续时间约为300μs)。替代性地，可以在用户可激励模式下实现更长或更短的重复周期。通过在用户可激励模式中实现较短的响应周期，当用户可激励模式被触发时，标签可以向用户提供提示响应；相比之下，在基础设施可激励模式下，可能不需要这种提示响应。在一些实施方案中，当标签从基础设施可激励模式进入用户可激励模式时，信标控制器9030还可以降低传输功率，以便将与同时在2.4GHz频段中操作的其他设备的干扰机会最小化。When the user-activatable mode is triggered, the tag 1100 can harvest incident 2.4GHz energy to charge the energy storage circuit 2108. Additionally, when tag 1100 determines that 2.4 GHz energy is received by antenna 2114, transmitter 2104 may transmit ID signal 13102 in the approximately 2.4 GHz frequency band. However, the beacon controller 9030 may adjust the repetition period of the ID signal to be much faster than the repetition period of the ID signal in the infrastructure excitable mode. For example, transmitter 2104 may broadcast ID signal 13102 less than 10 seconds after antenna 2114 receives 2.4 GHz signal 13118b (signal duration is approximately 300 μs). Alternatively, longer or shorter repetition periods may be implemented in a user-activatable mode. By enabling shorter response periods in user-activatable mode, tags can provide prompt responses to users when user-activatable mode is triggered; in contrast, in infrastructure-activatable mode, such prompts may not be needed response. In some embodiments, the beacon controller 9030 may also reduce transmission power when the tag enters the user-energizable mode from the infrastructure energizable mode to minimize the chance of interference with other devices concurrently operating in the 2.4 GHz band. .
在一些实施方案中，标签可以在用户可激励模式下将ID信号13102广播回用户设备11008。另外地或替代性地，标签可以将ID信号13102广播给场所周围的一个或多个接收器(例如，图13C中的接收器11300c)。在一些实施方案中，在用户可激励模式下的标签传输可以通过上文讨论的三个或更多个BLE信道之一来广播，其中每个标签在每次传输中随机选择所述三个信道中的一个或多个。In some implementations, the tag may broadcast the ID signal 13102 back to the user device 11008 in user-activatable mode. Additionally or alternatively, the tag may broadcast the ID signal 13102 to one or more receivers around the venue (eg, receiver 11300c in Figure 13C). In some embodiments, tag transmissions in user-stimulable mode may be broadcast over one of the three or more BLE channels discussed above, with each tag randomly selecting the three channels for each transmission. one or more of.
标签1100可以被配置成当EAS线圈2110从EAS门1112、1114接收到EAS信号13118c时，在图13D的门模式下操作。在一些实施方案中，EAS信号13118c可以具有在7-13MHz之间的频段内或58-60kHz之间的频段内的频率。EAS门1112、1114可以安装在场所的出口附近，并且可以发出比RFID、Wi-Fi、蓝牙或其他射频传输更本地化的信号13118c，从而提供带标签的物品何时通过门的准确指示(而不仅仅是在门附近行走)。例如，用户可能被准许带着带标签的物品走出商店，而不是要求顾客去收银台或收银机。然后，门可以读取标签和用户的身份(诸如通过用户的移动设备)并且将要购买的物品的库存发送到服务器，所述服务器查找物品的价格并自动向用户的信用或借记账户收费，或者将资金从用户的电子钱包自动转给卖方。Tag 1100 may be configured to operate in the gate mode of Figure 13D when EAS coil 2110 receives EAS signal 13118c from EAS gates 1112, 1114. In some implementations, EAS signal 13118c may have a frequency in the frequency band between 7-13 MHz or in the frequency band between 58-60 kHz. EAS doors 1112, 1114 can be installed near the exit of a venue and can emit a signal 13118c that is more localized than RFID, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or other radio frequency transmissions, thereby providing an accurate indication of when a tagged item has passed through the door (while Not just walking near the door). For example, users might be allowed to walk out of a store with tagged items, rather than requiring customers to go to a checkout or register. The gate can then read the tag and the user's identity (such as via the user's mobile device) and send the inventory of items to be purchased to a server, which looks up the price of the items and automatically charges the user's credit or debit account, or Automatically transfer funds from the user's e-wallet to the seller.
当门模式被触发时，信标控制器9030可以控制发射器2104传输ID信号13102的短的、强有力的突发。例如，发射器2104可以在大约200ms的周期内以其最大输出功率传输ID信号，重复周期在10-80ms之间，使得在非常短的时间帧内发生多次传输。ID信号13102可以由接近于EAS门的专用接收器11300h接收；然而，由于EAS线圈2110及其相关联的电路系统的配置，EAS门本身可以不由标签1100触发。在一些实施方案中，标签1100可以被配置成在门模式下操作预定的时间长度或预定次数的ID信号13102的传输，之后它可以恢复到标签的先前操作模式或默认模式(例如，可以是基础设施可激励模式)。When the gate mode is triggered, the beacon controller 9030 can control the transmitter 2104 to transmit a short, powerful burst of the ID signal 13102. For example, the transmitter 2104 may transmit the ID signal at its maximum output power over a period of approximately 200 ms, with a repetition period between 10-80 ms, such that multiple transmissions occur within a very short time frame. ID signal 13102 may be received by a dedicated receiver 11300h proximate to the EAS gate; however, due to the configuration of the EAS coil 2110 and its associated circuitry, the EAS gate itself may not be triggered by the tag 1100. In some embodiments, tag 1100 may be configured to operate in gate mode for a predetermined length of time or a predetermined number of transmissions of ID signal 13102, after which it may revert to the tag's previous operating mode or default mode (e.g., which may be the base Facility incentivized mode).
图14A、图14B和图14C展示了在用户设备11008上显示的图形用户界面的几个非限制性例子，所述用户设备可以例如是蜂窝电话。作为一般例子，图14A被提供用于讨论的目的，并且展示了显示图形用户界面(GUI)14100的用户设备11008，用于通过使用户能够将数据输入到GUI 14100中并激活诸如搜索按钮14006的元素来进行库存搜索。搜索查询可以以许多方式发起，诸如通过在字段中键入搜索文本，通过用用户设备11008中的扫描仪扫描无线标签1100或相关产品，或者通过使用下拉菜单14200。下拉菜单可以向用户提供选择选项，以便用户定义和/或细化搜索。一旦定义了搜索，就可以在用户设备11008的触摸屏上触摸搜索按钮14006，以便通过到接收器的无线传输来发起搜索，如将在后面更详细地描述的。14A, 14B, and 14C illustrate several non-limiting examples of graphical user interfaces displayed on a user device 11008, which may be, for example, a cellular phone. As a general example, Figure 14A is provided for purposes of discussion and illustrates a user device 11008 displaying a graphical user interface (GUI) 14100 for use by enabling the user to enter data into the GUI 14100 and activate a search button 14006 such as elements to perform inventory searches. A search query may be initiated in many ways, such as by typing search text in a field, by scanning wireless tag 1100 or related products with the scanner in user device 11008 , or by using drop-down menu 14200 . A drop-down menu may provide the user with selection options to define and/or refine the search. Once the search is defined, the search button 14006 can be touched on the touch screen of the user device 11008 to initiate the search via wireless transmission to the receiver, as will be described in more detail below.
图14B展示了显示产品搜索GUI 14100的用户设备11008。可以向搜索特定产品或产品类别的用户提供下拉菜单14200。下拉菜单14200可以通过输入品牌、SKU、库存号或型号为用户提供搜索产品的各种方式。初始选择后可能会出现子菜单。例如，如果选择了品牌下拉菜单，连续的子菜单可能包括类别、产品、尺寸、颜色或任何其他的产品区别特性。产品图像可能会出现在GUI中，使用户能够选择感兴趣的产品。在产品被识别之后，可以通过触摸激活搜索按钮14006。Figure 14B illustrates user device 11008 displaying product search GUI 14100. A drop-down menu 14200 may be provided to users searching for a specific product or product category. The drop-down menu 14200 can provide users with various ways to search for products by entering brand, SKU, stock number or model number. Submenus may appear after the initial selection. For example, if the Brand drop-down menu is selected, successive submenus may include categories, products, sizes, colors, or any other product distinguishing characteristics. Product images may appear in the GUI, enabling users to select products of interest. After the product is identified, the search button 14006 can be activated by touch.
图14C提供了具有用于搜索的可激活按钮的GUI的又另一个例子。这个例子解决了一个常见的场景：顾客实物地找到了一个感兴趣产品，比如服装物品，但是这件物品不符合顾客的尺寸。GUI 14100可以提示用户输入关于感兴趣产品的信息，而不是无休止地搜索正确尺寸的产品。在这个例子中，可以提示顾客(或场所的雇员)拍摄顾客识别的产品上的相关联无线标签1100或条形码或QR码的照片。接下来可以通过下拉菜单14200提示用户输入产品的期望尺寸、颜色或其他变化。在定义搜索之后，可以触摸搜索按钮14006来发起搜索。Figure 14C provides yet another example of a GUI with activatable buttons for searching. This example addresses a common scenario: a customer physically finds a product of interest, such as a clothing item, but the item does not fit the customer's size. The GUI 14100 can prompt the user to enter information about a product of interest, rather than endlessly searching for the correct size product. In this example, the customer (or an employee of the venue) may be prompted to take a photo of the associated wireless tag 1100 or barcode or QR code on the product that the customer identifies. The user may then be prompted via a drop-down menu 14200 to enter the desired size, color, or other variations of the product. After defining the search, the search button 14006 can be touched to initiate the search.
在查找之后，取决于查询的性质、系统设计和/或用户许可，用户设备11008可以返回替代的信息源。例如，可以使GUI显示所请求的产品缺货或有货。如果产品缺货，则GUI可以识别产品的库存位置，或者可以提供订购产品以运送给顾客的能力。如果产品有货，则GUI可以指示产品所位于的另一个区域的名称。它可以提供场所地图，从而指示产品的大致位置。GUI可以提供引导用户到产品区域的行走指引。在一些情况下，当用户接近产品的位置时，与产品相关联的标签1100可以直接向用户设备11008或经由场所中的基础设施发射器传输信号，以使用户能够锁定产品的位置。After the lookup, the user device 11008 may return alternative sources of information, depending on the nature of the query, system design, and/or user permissions. For example, the GUI can be made to show that the requested product is out of stock or in stock. If a product is out of stock, the GUI can identify where the product is in stock, or it can provide the ability to order the product for shipment to the customer. If the product is in stock, the GUI may indicate the name of another region where the product is located. It can provide a map of the premises indicating the approximate location of the product. The GUI can provide walking directions that guide users to product areas. In some cases, when a user approaches the location of a product, a tag 1100 associated with the product may transmit a signal directly to the user device 11008 or via an infrastructure transmitter in the venue to enable the user to locate the product.
取决于查询的性质和系统设计，用于检索信息的协议可以响应于GUI元素的激活而变化。在各种实施方案中，用户设备11008可以向附近的标签1100广播信号，并且标签1100可以将其响应传输到用户设备11008。在其他实施方案中，用户设备11008可以初始地将查询传输到库存管理系统以用于初始查找。库存管理系统可以返回与查询匹配的产品的ID。或者，如果物品缺货，则库存管理系统可以通过GUI提供所述信息以供显示。如果产品有货，并且匹配标签ID的列表被发送到手持设备11008，则设备11008中的诸如2.4GHz发射器等发射器可以发送触发信号，以使附近的无线标签1100发回其唯一标签ID。在用户设备上或远程系统上可以发生比较，以识别匹配并提醒用户。替代性地，库存管理系统可能已经具有每个产品所处位置的记录，并且不是让用户设备11008触发来自标签1100的响应，而是可以提醒用户设备11008先前已知的位置。替代性地或另外地，用户设备11008可以向库存管理系统传输信号，使得系统能够确定用户设备11008的位置(以与用于确定标签1100的位置相同的方式)，使得库存管理系统能够更准确地将用户引导到期望产品的特定位置。如果第一步在定位实物产品时不成功，则用户设备11008只能探测附近的标签1100。Depending on the nature of the query and the system design, the protocol used to retrieve information can change in response to activation of GUI elements. In various embodiments, user device 11008 can broadcast a signal to nearby tags 1100 and tags 1100 can transmit their responses to user device 11008. In other embodiments, the user device 11008 may initially transmit the query to the inventory management system for the initial lookup. Inventory management systems can return the IDs of products that match the query. Alternatively, if an item is out of stock, the inventory management system can provide the information for display via the GUI. If the product is in stock and a list of matching tag IDs is sent to handheld device 11008, a transmitter such as a 2.4GHz transmitter in device 11008 can send a trigger signal to cause nearby wireless tags 1100 to send back their unique tag IDs. The comparison can occur on the user's device or on a remote system to identify matches and alert the user. Alternatively, the inventory management system may already have a record of the location of each product, and rather than having user device 11008 trigger a response from tag 1100, user device 11008 may be alerted to previously known locations. Alternatively or additionally, user device 11008 may transmit a signal to the inventory management system such that the system can determine the location of user device 11008 (in the same manner as is used to determine the location of tag 1100), allowing the inventory management system to more accurately Direct the user to a specific location where they want the product. If the first step is unsuccessful in locating the physical product, the user device 11008 can only detect nearby tags 1100 .
本公开文本的实施方案可以涉及用于电子安全和执行库存控制操作的系统、方法、设备和计算机可读介质。为了便于讨论，在一些情况下，下文结合系统或方法描述相关实施方案，应当理解，系统和方法的公开方面同样适用于彼此以及设备和计算机可读介质。相关方法的一些方面可以通过有线网络、无线网络或两者兼有的网络以电子方式发生。这种方法的其他方面可以使用非电子手段来实现。在最广泛的意义上，本文公开的系统、方法和计算机可读介质不限于特定的物理和/或电子手段，而是可以使用许多不同的手段来实现。Embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to systems, methods, devices, and computer-readable media for electronic security and performing inventory control operations. For ease of discussion, in some cases, related embodiments are described below in conjunction with systems or methods, with the understanding that disclosed aspects of systems and methods apply equally to each other as well as to devices and computer-readable media. Some aspects of related methods may occur electronically over a wired network, a wireless network, or both. Other aspects of this approach can be implemented using non-electronic means. In the broadest sense, the systems, methods, and computer-readable media disclosed herein are not limited to specific physical and/or electronic means, but may be implemented using many different means.
所公开的实施方案可以包括电子安全系统，所述电子安全系统用于保护供销售的产品免受盗窃，同时还管理产品的销售和库存水平。在零售场所(诸如商店和购物中心)中，存在对“无接触式”购买的增加的需求，其中顾客可以远程地购买产品并且访问场所以拾取产品，或者其中顾客可以在场所中完成购买而不与销售人员交互(例如，通过在智能电话上、在由商店提供的移动设备上、或在固定的自助服务机上完成购买)并且随后带着所购买产品离开场所。由于保持社交距离的需求，用于无接触式购物的方法尤其受欢迎，因为这些方法可以减少在给定时间在场所内准许的顾客和员工的数量，并且限制顾客与员工之间的交互。不幸的是，无接触式购物也可能导致从零售场所的企图盗窃的发生增加，因为盗窃者可能会由于销售员工和商店保安的减少、以及由于他们对没有通过常规结账队伍或收银机就带着货物离开商店的行为提供的正常性而感到有恃无恐。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems for protecting products for sale from theft while also managing sales and inventory levels of the products. In retail venues, such as stores and shopping malls, there is an increased demand for "contactless" purchasing, where customers can purchase products remotely and visit the venue to pick up the products, or where customers can complete purchases in the venue without Interact with a salesperson (eg, by completing a purchase on a smartphone, on a mobile device provided by the store, or at a fixed kiosk) and then leave the premises with the purchased product. Due to the need for social distancing, methods for contactless shopping are particularly popular as they can reduce the number of customers and staff allowed in a venue at a given time and limit interactions between customers and staff. Unfortunately, contactless shopping may also lead to an increase in attempted thefts from retail locations, as thieves may be affected by fewer sales associates and store security, as well as by their concerns about taking items without going through regular checkout lines or cash registers. The act of goods leaving the store provides a sense of normalcy and a sense of security.
所公开的实施方案可以涉及用于保护零售场所免受盗窃、同时还实现高效的无接触式购物实践的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括用于销售产品的场所的电子安全系统，所述产品具有附接到它们或以其他方式与它们相关联的无线传输标签。顾客可以通过使用设备(诸如智能电话或商店自助服务机)与无线传输标签交互、查找与其相关联的产品、访问关于相关联产品的信息以及以电子方式购买产品来购买带标签的产品。由于可以使用顾客的设备完成交易，因此不需要与商店员工接触。进一步地，交易的完成可以导致防盗警报或其他防盗保护措施的解除激活，使得顾客可以顺利地带着所购买产品离开场所。然而，防盗警报和其他保护措施对于所有尚未被购买的带标签产品仍可以保持活动。如果盗窃者试图在不购买的情况下从场所取走产品，则可以检测到企图盗窃，并且可以因此触发防盗警报和其他保护措施。有利地，所公开的实施方案可以保护未经购买的产品免受盗窃，同时还提供用于无接触式购物的用户友好且安全的装置。The disclosed embodiments may relate to systems, methods, and computer-readable media for protecting a retail location from theft while also enabling efficient contactless shopping practices. Embodiments may include electronic security systems for locations where products are sold that have wireless transmission tags attached to or otherwise associated with them. Customers can purchase tagged products by interacting with wirelessly transmitted tags using a device such as a smartphone or store kiosk, finding products associated with them, accessing information about associated products, and purchasing products electronically. Since the transaction can be completed using the customer's device, there is no need for contact with store employees. Further, completion of the transaction may result in the deactivation of the anti-theft alarm or other anti-theft protection measures, allowing the customer to successfully leave the premises with the purchased product. However, anti-theft alarms and other protections may remain active for all tagged products that have not yet been purchased. If a thief attempts to remove a product from the premises without purchasing it, the attempted theft can be detected and anti-theft alarms and other protective measures can be triggered as a result. Advantageously, the disclosed embodiments can protect unpurchased products from theft while also providing a user-friendly and secure device for contactless shopping.
所公开的实施方案可以包括电子安全系统。如本文所使用的，电子安全系统可以指用于检测和/或发信号通知未经授权的入侵到区域中或在指定位置处企图的抢劫、偷盗、盗窃、偷窃或其他损失的硬件和软件部件的任何布置。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被配置成检测并发信号通知人、动物、物体或材料进入指定位置、离开指定位置或相对于指定位置的进入和/或离开。例如，电子安全系统可以包括用于检测人和/或物体的移动的至少一个设备，所述至少一个设备可以指示企图入侵或对物体的企图盗窃。用于检测移动的设备的例子可以包括成像设备、麦克风、无源红外传感器、超声波传感器、电磁或射频检测器(例如，EAS设备、RFID设备、微波传感器等)、GPS、或用于检测人、动物、物体或材料的移动的任何其他合适的装置。用于检测移动的设备可以位于要保护的区域内或周围的一个或多个位置处，诸如：在入口或出口、门、门口、窗、楼梯井或电梯、储存空间处；在安全箱、保险库或锁箱处或附近；在走廊中；在房间之间的通道或门框中；在要保护的区域的外围处；或在期望检测人和/或物体的移动以保卫区域的任何其他位置处。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems. As used herein, electronic security systems may refer to hardware and software components used to detect and/or signal unauthorized intrusion into an area or attempted robbery, theft, burglary, theft, or other loss at a designated location any arrangement. In some embodiments, electronic security systems may be configured to detect and signal the entry and/or departure of persons, animals, objects, or materials into, out of, or relative to a designated location. For example, an electronic security system may include at least one device for detecting movement of people and/or objects, which at least one device may indicate an attempted intrusion or attempted theft of an object. Examples of devices for detecting movement may include imaging devices, microphones, passive infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, electromagnetic or radio frequency detectors (e.g., EAS devices, RFID devices, microwave sensors, etc.), GPS, or devices for detecting people, Any other suitable device for the movement of animals, objects or materials. Devices for detecting movement may be located at one or more locations in or around the area to be protected, such as: at entrances or exits, doors, doorways, windows, stairwells or elevators, storage spaces; at security boxes, safes At or near a vault or lock box; in a hallway; in a passage between rooms or in a door frame; at the perimeter of an area to be protected; or at any other location where it is desired to detect the movement of people and/or objects in order to secure the area .
另外地或替代性地，示例性电子安全系统可以被配置成控制人和物体移入和/或移出指定区域，以便保护所述区域和其中的人和物体。例如，电子安全系统可以包括用于控制人和物体通过入口通道和其他控制点的移动的部件；此类部件的例子可以包括身份(ID)读取器、门控制器、十字转门、退出请求(REX)设备、门位置开关/传感器、锁定机构、密码或pin码输入设备、或用于控制人或物体通过或进入指定位置的任何其他合适的部件。Additionally or alternatively, example electronic security systems may be configured to control the movement of people and objects into and/or out of designated areas in order to protect the areas and the people and objects therein. For example, electronic security systems may include components for controlling the movement of people and objects through entryways and other control points; examples of such components may include identification (ID) readers, door controls, turnstiles, exit requests (REX) device, door position switch/sensor, locking mechanism, password or pin entry device, or any other suitable component used to control the passage of people or objects through or into a designated location.
在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被配置成在人或物体的未经授权的或非预期的移动(其可以指示企图的入侵或盗窃)和被授权并因此不需要警告或补救措施的移动之间进行区分。例如，电子安全系统可以检测人或物体到未经授权的位置(例如，在零售场所的出口处经过安全门、或进入不向公众开放的受限区域)或在未经授权或计划外的时间(例如，在零售场所关闭时)的移动，或通过未经授权的个人占有物体。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被配置成当检测到企图的入侵或盗窃时执行一个或多个动作，诸如发起警报、联系执法人员或安保人员、记载事件(例如，通过记录视频或照片)、或限制访问指定位置(例如，通过自动关闭门、接合栏杆或其他障碍物、或停用电梯)。电子安全系统可以进一步被配置成在警报、通知或文档中包括与企图的入侵或盗窃有关的其他信息，诸如被识别或推测识别为参与事件的一个或多个人的身份或推测身份、或事件中涉及的一个或多个物体的识别或推测识别(包括但不限于正在企图盗窃的物体、或在事件期间被识别或推测识别为并非企图盗窃或未经授权入侵的主体的其他物体)。电子安全系统可以另外地包括其他元件、电路系统、电路部件和系统，其可以有益于检测和/或发信号通知未经授权的入侵或企图的抢劫、偷盗或盗窃。电子安全系统可以包括一个或多个前述元件。In some embodiments, electronic security systems may be configured to respond to unauthorized or unintended movement of persons or objects (which may indicate attempted intrusion or theft) and movements that are authorized and therefore do not require warning or remedial action. distinguish between. For example, electronic security systems may detect people or objects traveling to an unauthorized location (e.g., passing through a security gate at the exit of a retail establishment, or entering a restricted area not open to the public) or at unauthorized or unscheduled times ( For example, the movement of objects while a retail premises is closed) or by unauthorized individuals taking possession of objects. In some embodiments, the electronic security system may be configured to perform one or more actions upon detecting an attempted intrusion or theft, such as initiating an alarm, contacting law enforcement or security personnel, documenting the incident (e.g., by recording video or photos) ), or restrict access to a designated location (e.g., by automatically closing doors, engaging railings or other barriers, or deactivating elevators). The electronic security system may further be configured to include in the alert, notification, or document other information relevant to the attempted intrusion or theft, such as the identity or presumed identity of one or more persons identified or presumed to be involved in the incident, or in the incident. The identification or presumed identification of the object or objects involved (including, but not limited to, the object being attempted theft, or other objects identified or presumed identified during the incident as being other than the subject of the attempted theft or unauthorized intrusion). Electronic security systems may additionally include other elements, circuitry, circuit components, and systems that may be useful in detecting and/or signaling unauthorized intrusion or attempted robbery, theft, or theft. Electronic security systems may include one or more of the aforementioned elements.
在所公开的实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被提供用于提供产品的场所。如本文所使用的，场所可以包括可以储存或保持物体或材料库存的任何区域、建筑物或结构，诸如零售场所、商店、仓库、配送中心、物流中心、履行中心、制造区域、装运区域、储存区域、家庭、医疗设施、饮食场所、厨房、或者跟踪物品可以受益的任何其他区域。如本文所使用的，产品可以包括在场所内储存或保持的任何物体或材料，如上文所讨论的。通过非限制性举例的方式，产品可以包括食品、服装、鞋类、电子产品、消费品、装备、车辆、消耗品、包装、配饰、供应品、材料、艺术品、动物、仪器、货板、容器、药品、化妆品、贸易品、物品、设备、机器、器具、机件、工具、家具或场所中可能存在的任何其他物体。在一些实施方案中，场所可以提供用于销售、交换或物物交换、用于展示、用于保管、用于储存、用于配送、和/或用于免费赠送的产品。In disclosed embodiments, electronic security systems may be provided for locations where products are provided. As used herein, a site may include any area, building or structure in which inventory of objects or materials may be stored or maintained, such as a retail location, store, warehouse, distribution center, logistics center, fulfillment center, manufacturing area, shipping area, storage areas, homes, medical facilities, eating establishments, kitchens, or any other area that could benefit from tracking items. As used herein, product may include any object or material stored or maintained on the premises, as discussed above. By way of non-limiting example, products may include food, clothing, footwear, electronics, consumer products, equipment, vehicles, consumables, packaging, accessories, supplies, materials, artwork, animals, instruments, pallets, containers , medicines, cosmetics, trade goods, articles, equipment, machines, appliances, parts, tools, furniture or any other objects that may be present in the premises. In some embodiments, a venue may offer products for sale, exchange or barter, for display, for safekeeping, for storage, for distribution, and/or for freebies.
在所公开的实施方案中，所提供的产品可以具有相关联的无线传输标签。如本文所使用的，无线传输标签可以包括任何可无线检测的设备，诸如射频识别(RFID)设备、蓝牙低功耗(BLE)信标设备、包括由射频能量供能的微控制器的设备、或者被配置成传输能够检测的信号的任何其他结构。在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括至少一个天线或者被配置用于从空气或从任何其他介质接收和/或输出能量的任何其他部件、电路和/或设备。例如，无线传输标签可以被配置成接收和/或输出电磁辐射、电场、磁场、声学信号(诸如在声纳应用中)或光学信号(例如在激光应用中)。In the disclosed embodiments, the product provided may have an associated wireless transmission tag. As used herein, a wireless transmitting tag may include any wirelessly detectable device, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon device, a device including a microcontroller powered by radio frequency energy, or any other structure configured to transmit a signal capable of being detected. In the disclosed embodiments, a wireless transmitting tag may include at least one antenna or any other component, circuit, and/or device configured to receive and/or output energy from the air or from any other medium. For example, wireless transmitting tags may be configured to receive and/or output electromagnetic radiation, electric fields, magnetic fields, acoustic signals (such as in sonar applications), or optical signals (such as in laser applications).
如上所述，所提供的产品可以与无线传输标签相关联。如本文所使用的，“与…相关联”可以指一个无线传输标签可以被指派给场所中提供的一个产品或者以其他方式与所述产品配对或相关，以用于唯一地识别该产品的目的。例如，无线传输标签与相关联的产品之间的关联可以存储在数据结构中。无线传输标签的信息(例如，唯一标签标识符，诸如序列号或条形码)可以在数据结构中搜索，并且经由标签与相关联的产品之间的关联，可以用于从数据结构中访问相关联的产品的信息；相关联的产品的信息可以包括例如产品的尺寸和颜色、价格数据、场所内的位置、产品图像、所有权信息、护理说明、制造时间和位置、或产品的任何其他特性。As mentioned above, the products offered can be associated with wireless transmission tags. As used herein, "associated with" may mean that a wireless transmission tag may be assigned to a product provided in a venue or otherwise paired with or associated with said product for the purpose of uniquely identifying the product . For example, the association between a wireless transmission tag and an associated product may be stored in a data structure. The wirelessly transmitted tag's information (e.g., a unique tag identifier such as a serial number or barcode) can be searched in the data structure and, via the association between the tag and the associated product, can be used to access the associated product from the data structure. Product information; associated product information may include, for example, the product's size and color, pricing data, location within a facility, product images, ownership information, care instructions, manufacturing time and location, or any other characteristics of the product.
在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以通过粘合、嵌入、缝合、安装、粘结、摩擦配合、装入口袋、捆扎、裹绕、紧固或任何其他类型的物理连接来附接到相关联的产品。例如，如果产品由织物制成，则标签可以缝合到织物中、嵌入织物层之间、粘附到织物上、经由悬挂标签附接到织物上、或者以任何其他能够实现物理附接的方式连接到织物上。在替代实施方案中，诸如当标签被放置在与产品相同的包装中时，无线传输标签与产品之间的关联可以被建立并且可选地存储在数据结构中，而无需标签与产品之间的物理附接。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以不需要电池，而是可以利用采集的能量操作(如本文所公开的)。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括足够小的设备，以在制造过程中嵌入产品(例如，服装)中。在一些实施方案中，穿戴者可能不容易检测到嵌入的标签。其他实施方案可以长时间(例如许多年)保持嵌入或附接到产品。无线传输标签的一些实施方案可以抵抗灰尘和水，诸如达到IP67标准。其他实施方案可以抵抗洗涤、干燥、干洗和熨烫。In some embodiments, a wireless transmission tag may be attached to an associated device by gluing, embedding, sewing, mounting, bonding, friction fitting, pocketing, bundling, wrapping, fastening, or any other type of physical connection. The product. For example, if the product is made of fabric, the tag may be sewn into the fabric, embedded between layers of fabric, adhered to the fabric, attached to the fabric via a hanging tag, or attached in any other manner that enables physical attachment onto the fabric. In alternative embodiments, such as when the tag is placed in the same packaging as the product, an association between the wirelessly transmitted tag and the product may be established and optionally stored in a data structure without the need for an association between the tag and the product. Physical attachment. In some embodiments, wireless transmitting tags may not require batteries but may operate using harvested energy (as disclosed herein). In some embodiments, wirelessly transmitting tags may comprise devices small enough to be embedded into products (eg, apparel) during the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, embedded tags may not be readily detectable by the wearer. Other embodiments may remain embedded or attached to the product for long periods of time, such as many years. Some implementations of wireless transmission tags are resistant to dust and water, such as to IP67 standards. Other embodiments can resist washing, drying, dry cleaning and ironing.
通过举例的方式，图1展示了用于场所的电子安全系统。图1的电子安全系统可以包括与在场所中提供用于销售的产品(诸如夹克1106和袋子1122)相关联的电子传输标签1100a、1100b，以及用于检测并发信号通知对产品的企图盗窃的部件。例如，图1的电子安全系统可以包括：安全门1110、1112，所述安全门具有被配置成向标签1100a、1100b传输无线信号1118的发射器1116；至少一个接收器/激励器设备1124，其被配置成接收来自标签1100a、1100b的信号1102a、1102b的广播；以及警报器1114，其可以在检测到对产品1106和1122中的至少一个的企图盗窃时被触发。By way of example, Figure 1 shows an electronic security system for a venue. The electronic security system of Figure 1 may include electronic transmission tags 1100a, 1100b associated with products offered for sale in a venue, such as jackets 1106 and bags 1122, as well as means for detecting and signaling attempted theft of the products. . For example, the electronic security system of FIG. 1 may include: security doors 1110, 1112 having a transmitter 1116 configured to transmit a wireless signal 1118 to tags 1100a, 1100b; and at least one receiver/activator device 1124 configured to to receive broadcasts of signals 1102a, 1102b from tags 1100a, 1100b; and an alarm 1114 that may be triggered upon detection of an attempted theft of at least one of products 1106 and 1122.
作为另一个例子，图13A-图13D描绘了用于提供产品(诸如衬衫13210)的场所的电子安全系统。在图1和图13A-图13D所描绘的例子中，产品1106、1122和13210可以被提供用于销售并且可以包括服装物品或袋子；然而，普通技术人员将理解，产品1106和13210可以包括以上讨论的任何产品。如图13A所示，产品13210和场所内的其他产品可以与无线传输标签1100相关联。例如，每个带标签的产品可以与不同的无线传输标签1100相关联，以便提供每个带标签的产品的唯一标识。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签1100可以被配置成接收无线信号(诸如信号13118a-c)，并且作为响应，输出或传输信号(诸如ID信号13102)。电子安全系统可以包括：多个接收器11300a-h，所述多个接收器被配置成接收来自无线传输标签1100的ID信号13102和其他信号的广播；以及激励器13400a-e，所述激励器被配置成递送将由无线传输标签1100收集和存储的能量。在一些实施方案中，当检测到对与电子传输标签1100相关联的产品(例如，产品13210)的企图盗窃时，图13A-图13D的电子安全系统可以包括警报(例如，在安全门1110、1112处或附近的警报)。As another example, Figures 13A-13D depict an electronic security system for a location where a product, such as a shirt 13210, is provided. In the examples depicted in Figures 1 and 13A-13D, products 1106, 1122, and 13210 may be offered for sale and may include clothing items or bags; however, one of ordinary skill will understand that products 1106 and 13210 may include the above any product discussed. As shown in Figure 13A, product 13210 and other products within the venue can be associated with wireless transmission tags 1100. For example, each tagged product may be associated with a different wireless transmission tag 1100 to provide a unique identification of each tagged product. In some embodiments, wireless transmitting tag 1100 may be configured to receive wireless signals (such as signals 13118a-c) and, in response, output or transmit a signal (such as ID signal 13102). The electronic security system may include a plurality of receivers 11300a-h configured to receive broadcasts of ID signals 13102 and other signals from wirelessly transmitting tags 1100; and exciters 13400a-e. Configured to deliver energy to be collected and stored by wireless transmission tag 1100 . In some embodiments, the electronic security system of FIGS. 13A-13D may include an alarm (e.g., at security gates 1110, 1112) when an attempted theft of a product associated with electronic transmission tag 1100 (e.g., product 13210) is detected. alarm at or near).
所公开的实施方案可以包括库存控制操作。如本文所使用的，库存控制操作可以包括用于跟踪和控制由场所保持、储存、处理或提供的产品的系统、方法、技术和活动。例如，库存控制操作可以包括监测产品从场所的流入和流出，以及监测特定产品在场所中被储存或呈现以供销售的位置。库存控制操作还可以包括检测对来自场所的产品的未经授权的入侵或企图的抢劫或盗窃，并且在一些实施方案中，采取对应的动作，诸如发起警报或联系执法人员。Disclosed embodiments may include inventory control operations. As used herein, inventory control operations may include systems, methods, techniques and activities used to track and control products held, stored, processed or served by a location. For example, inventory control operations may include monitoring the inflow and outflow of product from the premises, as well as monitoring where within the premises specific products are stored or presented for sale. Inventory control operations may also include detecting unauthorized intrusions or attempted robbery or theft of product from the premises and, in some embodiments, taking corresponding action, such as initiating an alarm or contacting law enforcement.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门。如本文所使用的，EAS门可以包括监视或防盗窃系统，所述系统具有至少一个天线或发射器，所述至少一个天线或发射器被配置成将无线信号传输到安全标签，所述安全标签被附接到或以其他方式关联于被带到EAS门附近的产品。在一些实施方案中，并且响应于接收到来自EAS门的无线信号，安全标签可以被配置成输出第二无线信号，所述第二无线信号可以用于触发防盗警报；在一些实施方案中，第二无线信号可以由EAS门的接收器或者接近但分离于EAS门的接收器来检测。在一些实施方案中，除了其他检测部件之外，EAS门可以包括电磁EAS部件、声磁(AM)部件、射频(RF)部件或微波(MW)部件。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one electronic article surveillance (EAS) door. As used herein, an EAS door may include a surveillance or anti-theft system having at least one antenna or transmitter configured to transmit a wireless signal to a security tag, the security tag Be attached to or otherwise associated with a product that is brought near the EAS door. In some embodiments, and in response to receiving a wireless signal from the EAS door, the security tag can be configured to output a second wireless signal that can be used to trigger an anti-theft alarm; in some embodiments, The second wireless signal can be detected by a receiver of the EAS door or a receiver close to but separate from the EAS door. In some embodiments, the EAS gate may include electromagnetic EAS components, acoustomagnetic (AM) components, radio frequency (RF) components, or microwave (MW) components, among other detection components.
在一些实施方案中，EAS门的天线或发射器可以结合在位于场所的入口或出口附近或另一个指定位置处的一个或多个基座内。例如，基于包括但不限于距离范围、空间可用性、顾客流量或所使用的EAS系统的类型的因素，EAS门可以包括一个基座、两个基座、三个基座或任何数量的基座。如果EAS门包括多于一个基座，则这些基座可以间隔开一段距离，以允许顾客以最小的阻碍在基座之间进出场所，同时这些基座彼此处于足够近的范围内，以便被经过的带标签产品触发。另外地或替代性地，EAS门可以包括隐蔽的EAS门、或具有一个或多个基座的EAS门，所述一个或多个基座被安装成使得它们不可见并且对顾客造成最小的阻碍。例如，基座可以安装在地板下方、天花板上方、作为门框的一部分、或在墙壁后面。隐蔽的EAS系统可以例如用于增强监视的有效性、增强顾客的购物体验、或者增强任何其他期望监测物体的设施。In some embodiments, the EAS door's antenna or transmitter may be incorporated into one or more bases located near the entrance or exit of the venue or at another designated location. For example, an EAS door may include one base, two bases, three bases, or any number of bases based on factors including, but not limited to, distance range, space availability, customer traffic, or the type of EAS system used. If an EAS door includes more than one pedestal, the pedestals may be spaced apart at a distance to allow patrons to pass in and out of the premises between the pedestals with minimal obstruction, while the pedestals are sufficiently close to each other to be passed by Tagged product triggers. Additionally or alternatively, EAS doors may include concealed EAS doors, or EAS doors with one or more bases mounted so that they are not visible and create minimal obstruction to customers . For example, the base can be installed below the floor, above the ceiling, as part of a door frame, or behind a wall. Covert EAS systems may be used, for example, to enhance the effectiveness of surveillance, enhance a customer's shopping experience, or enhance any other facility where it is desired to monitor objects.
通过举例的方式，图1展示了示例性EAS门，其包括第一基座1110和第二基座1112，每个基座具有被配置成在预定的频段内传输EAS信号1118的发射器1116。EAS信号1118可以包括电磁能量，所述电磁能量具有例如在58-60kHz(AM-EAS波)或7-13MHz(RF-EAS波)的频段内的频率。EAS门1110、1112还可以包括被配置成接收在与EAS信号1118相同频段内的无线信号的EAS接收器1120。例如，EAS接收器1120可以接收由EAS安全标签传输的信号，所述EAS安全标签被带到EAS门1110、1112附近并且被EAS信号1118触发。当接收到与EAS信号1118在相同频段中的无线信号时，EAS接收器1120可以触发警报器1114，从而指示带标签的产品通过EAS门1110、1112。By way of example, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary EAS gate that includes a first base 1110 and a second base 1112, each base having a transmitter 1116 configured to transmit an EAS signal 1118 within a predetermined frequency band. The EAS signal 1118 may include electromagnetic energy having a frequency, for example, within the frequency band of 58-60 kHz (AM-EAS waves) or 7-13 MHz (RF-EAS waves). EAS gates 1110 , 1112 may also include an EAS receiver 1120 configured to receive wireless signals within the same frequency band as EAS signal 1118 . For example, the EAS receiver 1120 may receive signals transmitted by an EAS security tag that is brought near the EAS gates 1110 , 1112 and triggered by the EAS signal 1118 . When receiving a wireless signal in the same frequency band as the EAS signal 1118, the EAS receiver 1120 can trigger the alarm 1114, thereby indicating that the tagged product passes through the EAS gates 1110, 1112.
在一些实施方案中，示例性无线传输标签1100(诸如标签1100a和1100b)可以被配置成当与标签相关联的产品通过EAS门1110、1112时接收EAS信号1118。例如，EAS信号1118的电磁能量可以由无线传输标签1100的线圈2110接收，由此激活或触发标签。一旦激活，无线传输标签1100就可以用发射器2104传输ID信号1102。ID信号1102可以具有与EAS信号1118不同的频率(例如，ID信号1102可以具有约2.4GHz的频率，而EAS信号可在58-60kHz或7-13MHz之间的频段内)。在一些实施方案中，EAS接收器1120可以不被ID信号1102触发，因为ID信号1102可以在EAS接收器1120的指定频段之外。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签1100可以不生成任何信号或不干扰由EAS门1110、1120生成的任何信号，使得标签不能被EAS门的接收器1120检测到。替代地，可以提供另一个接收器1124，其被配置成接收ID信号1102并且采取一个或多个对应的动作，诸如激活警报或将信号传输到至少一个处理器以完成对带标签的产品1106或1122的电子购买。In some implementations, example wireless transmitting tags 1100 (such as tags 1100a and 1100b ) may be configured to receive EAS signals 1118 when a product associated with the tag passes through EAS gates 1110 , 1112 . For example, the electromagnetic energy of the EAS signal 1118 may be received by the coil 2110 of the wireless transmission tag 1100, thereby activating or triggering the tag. Once activated, wireless transmitting tag 1100 can transmit ID signal 1102 using transmitter 2104 . ID signal 1102 may have a different frequency than EAS signal 1118 (eg, ID signal 1102 may have a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz, while the EAS signal may be in a frequency band between 58-60 kHz or 7-13 MHz). In some implementations, the EAS receiver 1120 may not be triggered by the ID signal 1102 because the ID signal 1102 may be outside the designated frequency band of the EAS receiver 1120 . In some embodiments, the wireless transmitting tag 1100 may not generate any signals or interfere with any signals generated by the EAS gates 1110, 1120 such that the tag cannot be detected by the EAS gate's receiver 1120. Alternatively, another receiver 1124 may be provided that is configured to receive the ID signal 1102 and take one or more corresponding actions, such as activating an alarm or transmitting the signal to at least one processor to complete identification of the tagged product 1106 or 1122 for electronic purchases.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个接收器。如本文所使用的，接收器可以包括被配置成接收通过通信媒介发送的信号的电路。信号可以携带数据(如在诸如Wi-Fi、蓝牙、蜂窝通信、以太网通信或任何其他基于标准或专有协议的通信系统的情况下)或仅仅携带能量(如在用于RFID、X光成像或雷达的激励器的情况下)。术语“接收器”可以指无线通信背景下的接收器，使得信号可以包括电信号、磁信号或电磁信号；媒介可以是空中无线通信；并且信号可以根据商定的通信协议携带某种形式的数据。接收器可以包括环境中的固定接收器、无线用户设备(例如，蜂窝电话、平板电脑、专用硬件等)、手持式接收器(例如，由场所提供给雇员或顾客以供在工作例程期间或购物会话中使用的手持式扫描仪)、或接收信号的任何其他电路或部件。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one receiver. As used herein, a receiver may include circuitry configured to receive a signal sent over a communication medium. Signals can carry data (as in the case of communication systems such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communications, Ethernet communications, or any other standard or proprietary protocol based) or simply energy (as in the case of RFID, X-ray imaging or radar exciter). The term "receiver" may refer to a receiver in the context of wireless communications, such that the signal may include an electrical, magnetic, or electromagnetic signal; the medium may be over-the-air wireless communications; and the signal may carry some form of data according to an agreed-upon communications protocol. Receivers may include fixed receivers in the environment, wireless user devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, specialized hardware, etc.), handheld receivers (e.g., provided by the venue to employees or customers for use during work routines or handheld scanner used in a shopping session), or any other circuit or component that receives a signal.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个接收器可以包括被调谐成接收指定频段内的电磁能量的天线。另外地，至少一个接收器可以被配置成传输指定频段内的电磁能量。例如，至少一个接收器可以包括收发器、路由器、双工器或被配置成传输和接收信号的任何其他设备。在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个接收器可以被配置成从无线传输标签以及从被配置成传输无线或有线信号的其他设备接收传输。所公开的实施方案可以包括固定在场所内的指定位置处的一个或多个接收器；例如，接收器可以分布在整个场所中，使得从场所内的任一点传输的信号可以被接收器中的至少一个接收器接收。另外地或替代性地，实施方案可以包括一个或多个移动接收器(例如，无线用户设备或手持式接收器)，所述一个或多个移动接收器可以由用户放置在场所内的期望位置处。In some embodiments, at least one receiver may include an antenna tuned to receive electromagnetic energy within a specified frequency band. Additionally, at least one receiver may be configured to transmit electromagnetic energy within a specified frequency band. For example, at least one receiver may include a transceiver, router, duplexer, or any other device configured to transmit and receive signals. In the disclosed embodiments, at least one receiver may be configured to receive transmissions from wirelessly transmitting tags as well as from other devices configured to transmit wireless or wired signals. The disclosed embodiments may include one or more receivers fixed at designated locations within the venue; for example, the receivers may be distributed throughout the venue such that signals transmitted from any point within the venue can be received by receivers within the venue. At least one receiver receives. Additionally or alternatively, embodiments may include one or more mobile receivers (eg, wireless user equipment or handheld receivers) that may be placed by a user at a desired location within the venue at.
例如，图13A-图13D描绘了示例性电子安全系统，所述电子安全系统包括分布在整个场所中的多个接收器11300a-h，以接收来自无线标签1100和其他传输设备的信号的广播。接收器11300a-h可以附连或以其他方式附接到墙壁、天花板、架子、显示器、或场所内的能够支撑接收器的任何其他固定装置或部件。如图13B所示，接收器11300a-h可以被配置成接收来自无线传输标签1100的ID信号13102的传输。每个接收器11300a-h可以包括第一天线2112和第二天线2114中的至少一个，所述第一天线被调谐为接收在约900MHz的频率下的能量(例如，RFID信号)，所述第二天线被调谐为接收在约2.4GHz的频率下的能量(例如，Wi-Fi、蓝牙低能耗(BLE)、或经典蓝牙)。如图11所示，接收器11300a-h可以被配置成接收来自无线传输标签1100的数据传输，并且经由网络11002将数据传输到无线识别系统11000的其他部件。For example, Figures 13A-13D depict an exemplary electronic security system that includes multiple receivers 11300a-h distributed throughout a venue to receive broadcasts of signals from wireless tags 1100 and other transmitting devices. Receivers 11300a-h may be attached or otherwise attached to a wall, ceiling, shelf, display, or any other fixture or component within the venue capable of supporting the receivers. As shown in FIG. 13B , receivers 11300a - h may be configured to receive transmissions of ID signals 13102 from wirelessly transmitting tags 1100 . Each receiver 11300a-h may include at least one of a first antenna 2112 tuned to receive energy (eg, RFID signals) at a frequency of approximately 900 MHz, and a second antenna 2114. The two antennas are tuned to receive energy at a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz (eg, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or Bluetooth Classic). As shown in FIG. 11 , receivers 11300a - h may be configured to receive data transmissions from wireless transmitting tags 1100 and transmit the data to other components of wireless identification system 11000 via network 11002 .
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方所描述的至少一个处理器。所公开的实施方案可以包括接收来自多个无线传输标签的传输。如上文所讨论的，来自无线传输标签的传输可以被至少一个接收器接收。另外地或替代性地，传输可以被电子安全系统的另一个部件接收。Disclosed implementations may include at least one processor as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Disclosed embodiments may include receiving transmissions from multiple wireless transmitting tags. As discussed above, transmissions from wireless transmitting tags may be received by at least one receiver. Additionally or alternatively, the transmission may be received by another component of the electronic security system.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收特定标签的特定标签ID。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成接收特定标签的特定标签ID。标签ID可以包括无线传输标签中的给定一个无线传输标签的信息，所述信息向用户和/或向其他设备或设备部件标识标签。标签ID可以包括数字、字母、字符、码、字符串或其他形式的数据，其可以向接收标签ID的其他设备或设备部件标识无线传输标签。在一些实施方案中，标签ID对于特定标签可以是唯一的，并且该特定标签可以仅具有一个标签ID。替代性地，同一个标签可以有多个标签ID。在一些实施方案中，多个标签可以共享相同的标签ID或ID组。标签ID的例子可以包括序列号、零件号、条形码、UUID、EPC和/或其他数据。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving a specific tag ID for a specific tag. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive a specific tag ID for a specific tag. The tag ID may include information for a given one of the wirelessly transmitted tags that identifies the tag to a user and/or to other devices or device components. The tag ID may include numbers, letters, characters, codes, strings, or other forms of data that may identify the wirelessly transmitted tag to other devices or device components that receive the tag ID. In some embodiments, a tag ID may be unique to a particular tag, and that particular tag may have only one tag ID. Alternatively, the same tag can have multiple tag IDs. In some implementations, multiple tags may share the same tag ID or group of IDs. Examples of tag IDs may include serial numbers, part numbers, barcodes, UUIDs, EPCs, and/or other data.
在一些实施方案中，特定标签可以与用于从场所预期购买的特定产品相关联。也就是说，特定标签ID可以与无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签相关联，所述特定一个无线传输标签进而与从场所预期购买的特定产品相关联。如上文所讨论的，“与…相关联”可以意指无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签(在下文中被称为“特定标签”)可以被指派给场所中提供的特定产品或者以其他方式与所述特定产品配对或相关。特定标签与特定产品之间的关联可以被存储在数据结构中，使得特定标签和特定产品中的一个的信息可以用于从数据结构访问另一个的信息。在一些实施方案中，特定产品可以是由场所提供以便购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式借用(免费或收费)的产品。另外地或替代性地，特定产品可以是顾客已决定购买且顾客正为其进行交易的产品，以从场所购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式借用特定产品。In some embodiments, specific tags may be associated with specific products intended for purchase from the venue. That is, a specific tag ID may be associated with a specific one of the wireless transmission tags, which in turn is associated with a specific product intended to be purchased from the venue. As discussed above, "associated with" may mean that a specific one of the wireless transmission tags (hereinafter referred to as a "particular tag") may be assigned to a specific product offered in the venue or otherwise. Paired with or associated with the specific product in question. The association between a specific tag and a specific product can be stored in a data structure such that information about one of the specific tag and specific product can be used to access information about the other from the data structure. In some embodiments, a particular product may be a product offered by a venue for purchase, rental, rental, or otherwise borrowing (for free or for a fee). Additionally or alternatively, the specific product may be a product that the customer has decided to purchase and for which the customer is transacting to purchase, rent, lease or otherwise borrow the specific product from the venue.
所公开的实施方案可以包括从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。如本文所使用的，预期购买者可以包括发起或执行交易以从场所购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式借用特定产品的顾客。另外地或替代性地，预期购买者可以包括可以全部或部分地代表买方执行交易的场所雇员；例子可以包括商店内采购员或收银员。另外地或替代性地，预期购买者可以包括被授权以全部或部分地代表买方执行交易的任何个人；例子可以包括经由诸如Instacart、Shipt和Stitch Fix等服务或应用雇用的采购员。在一些实施方案中，在由设备检测到特定标签ID之后，可以从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。例如，预期购买者可以使用设备来拍摄或扫描标签ID或其一部分。另外地或替代性地，预期购买者可以经由键盘、麦克风、鼠标或其他用户输入机制将特定标签ID或其一部分输入到设备中。另外地或替代性地，预期购买者可以使用设备在与场所相关联的网站或应用上选择标签ID。另外地或替代性地，预期购买者可以使用设备来触发特定标签传输其ID，并且由设备或由其他装置(诸如接收器11300a-h，其然后将特定标签的ID中继到设备)接收ID传输。在获得特定标签ID之后，设备可以向至少一个处理器传输特定标签ID。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser. As used herein, a prospective purchaser may include a customer who initiates or executes a transaction to purchase, rent, lease or otherwise borrow a particular product from a venue. Additionally or alternatively, the prospective purchaser may include a location employee who may perform the transaction, in whole or in part, on behalf of the purchaser; examples may include an in-store purchaser or cashier. Additionally or alternatively, a prospective buyer may include any individual authorized to execute a transaction, in whole or in part, on behalf of the buyer; examples may include buyers employed via services or applications such as Instacart, Shipt, and Stitch Fix. In some embodiments, the specific tag ID may be received from the device operated by the intended purchaser after the specific tag ID is detected by the device. For example, the prospective purchaser may use the device to photograph or scan the tag ID or a portion thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the prospective purchaser may enter the specific tag ID, or a portion thereof, into the device via a keyboard, microphone, mouse, or other user input mechanism. Additionally or alternatively, the prospective purchaser may select the tag ID on a website or application associated with the venue using the device. Additionally or alternatively, it is contemplated that the purchaser may use the device to trigger a specific tag to transmit its ID, and the ID is received by the device or by other means, such as receivers 11300a-h, which then relay the specific tag's ID to the device. transmission. After obtaining the specific tag ID, the device may transmit the specific tag ID to at least one processor.
图13C展示了其中预期购买者操作用户设备11008以检测附接到从场所提供以供购买的产品上的无线传输标签1100的标签ID的例子。在这个例子中，用户设备11008可以包括智能电话或具有相机的另一个设备，购买者可以使用其来检测(例如，拍摄或扫描)标签ID。如图11所示，用户设备11008可以经由网络11002将标签ID传输到至少一个处理器11004。Figure 13C illustrates an example in which a prospective purchaser operates user device 11008 to detect a tag ID attached to a wirelessly transmitted tag 1100 attached to a product offered for purchase from a venue. In this example, user device 11008 may include a smartphone or another device with a camera that the purchaser may use to detect (eg, photograph or scan) the tag ID. As shown in Figure 11, user device 11008 can transmit the tag ID to at least one processor 11004 via network 11002.
在一些实施方案中，由预期购买者操作的设备可以包括预期购买者的个人移动通信设备。示例性个人移动通信设备可以包括蜂窝电话、智能电话、平板电脑、台式机、膝上型计算机、PDA、手持式扫描仪、可穿戴设备或其他移动通信设备。例如，图13C展示了其中预期购买者操作用户设备11008(例如，智能电话)以检测特定标签ID的实施方案。In some embodiments, the device operated by the prospective purchaser may include the prospective purchaser's personal mobile communications device. Exemplary personal mobile communications devices may include cellular phones, smart phones, tablets, desktops, laptops, PDAs, handheld scanners, wearable devices, or other mobile communications devices. For example, Figure 13C illustrates an implementation in which a prospective purchaser operates a user device 11008 (eg, a smartphone) to detect a specific tag ID.
另外地或替代性地，由预期购买者操作的设备可以与场所中的自助服务机相关联。如本文所使用的，自助服务机可以包括具有顾客可以用来访问信息并从场所进行购买的计算机终端或另一输入设备的小型独立式结构。在一些实施方案中，自助服务机可以包括被固定以防止移动的结构，诸如连接到地板的终端或安装在墙壁上的触摸屏。另外地或替代性地，自助服务机可以被配置成在场所到处移动，使得自助服务机可以例如放置在高流量区域中、在出口或顾客服务台附近、在试衣间外、或在任何其他期望位置处。在一些实施方案中，自助服务机可以是全自动的，使得顾客可以使用自助服务机而无需来自场所雇员的输入或帮助。例如，图16展示了具有自助服务机16010的示例性场所，所述自助服务机包括具有触摸屏或其他用户输入机制的计算机终端，顾客可以使用所述触摸屏或其他用户输入机制来访问关于场所和其中销售的产品的信息并完成购买交易。自助服务机的其他例子可以包括自助结账柜台、完全或部分封闭的摊位、小隔间、工作站或可以由顾客操作以访问来自场所的信息或购买产品的任何其他设备。Additionally or alternatively, devices operated by prospective purchasers may be associated with kiosks in the venue. As used herein, a kiosk may include a small, free-standing structure having a computer terminal or another input device that a customer can use to access information and make purchases from a location. In some embodiments, a kiosk may include a structure that is secured to prevent movement, such as a terminal attached to the floor or a touch screen mounted on a wall. Additionally or alternatively, the kiosks may be configured to move around the venue such that the kiosks may be placed, for example, in high traffic areas, near exits or customer service desks, outside fitting rooms, or in any other at the desired location. In some embodiments, the kiosk can be fully automated such that a customer can use the kiosk without input or assistance from a venue employee. For example, FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary venue having a kiosk 16010 that includes a computer terminal with a touch screen or other user input mechanism that patrons can use to access information about the venue and therein information about products for sale and complete purchase transactions. Other examples of self-service kiosks may include self-service checkout counters, fully or partially enclosed booths, cubicles, workstations or any other device that can be operated by a customer to access information from the premises or purchase products.
所公开的实施方案可以包括经由一个或多个通信协议或技术从由预期购买者操作的设备(例如，通过至少一个处理器)接收特定标签ID和其他数据。例如，可以经由场所中的本地Wi-Fi连接或通过任何其他基于标准或专有通信协议从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器和由预期购买者操作的设备(在下文被称为购买者的设备)两者都可以连接到场所中的本地Wi-Fi网络，使得诸如特定标签ID的数据可以经由Wi-Fi网络在设备与至少一个处理器之间传输。另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器和购买者的设备可以被连接和配置用于经由其他协议(诸如蓝牙、蜂窝通信、以太网、ADSL/VDSL/SDSL有线协议、GSM、3G、LTE、5G、ZigBee、Z-wave无线协议、由发射器和接收器商定的专有协议、或用于在购买者的设备与至少一个处理器之间传输数据(诸如特定标签ID)的任何其他合适的媒介)的数据传输。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving the specific tag ID and other data from a device operated by the intended purchaser (eg, via at least one processor) via one or more communication protocols or technologies. For example, the specific tag ID may be received from a device operated by the intended purchaser via a local Wi-Fi connection in the venue or through any other standards-based or proprietary communication protocol. In some embodiments, both the at least one processor and the device operated by the intended purchaser (hereinafter referred to as the purchaser's device) may be connected to a local Wi-Fi network in the venue such that, for example, a specific tag ID Data may be transferred between the device and the at least one processor via the Wi-Fi network. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one processor and the purchaser's device may be connected and configured for communication via other protocols such as Bluetooth, cellular, Ethernet, ADSL/VDSL/SDSL wireline protocols, GSM, 3G, LTE, 5G, ZigBee, Z-wave wireless protocols, proprietary protocols negotiated by the transmitter and receiver, or any other suitable for transmitting data (such as a specific tag ID) between the purchaser's device and at least one processor media) for data transmission.
在所公开的实施方案中，可以经由有线局域网(LAN)连接从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。如本文所使用的，有线LAN可以包括局域内的处理器和外围设备的网络，所述处理器和外围设备经由例如以太网缆线和交换机物理地链接在一起。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器和购买者的设备两者都可以具有到LAN的硬连线连接(例如，以太网或其他网络缆线可以插入到这两个设备中)。另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器可以具有到接入点或路由器的有线连接，所述接入点或路由器可以与购买者的设备建立无线连接。购买者的设备可以经由接入点或路由器向至少一个处理器传输特定标签ID和其他数据。另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器和购买者的设备两者都可以被配置成经由到有线LAN的接入点或路由器的无线连接来访问有线LAN。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以包括场所内的处理器，诸如由场所提供给雇员或顾客用于在工作例程期间或在购物会话中使用的收银台或收银机处的计算设备、自助服务机、或者手持设备或扫描仪。因此，至少一个处理器可以被配置成经由LAN连接到购买者的设备，因为这两个设备都位于场所内或靠近场所。In the disclosed embodiments, the specific tag ID may be received from a device operated by the intended purchaser via a wired local area network (LAN) connection. As used herein, a wired LAN may include a network of processors and peripheral devices within a local area that are physically linked together via, for example, Ethernet cables and switches. In some embodiments, both the at least one processor and the purchaser's device may have hardwired connections to the LAN (eg, an Ethernet or other network cable may be plugged into both devices). Additionally or alternatively, at least one processor may have a wired connection to an access point or router that may establish a wireless connection with the purchaser's device. The purchaser's device may transmit the specific tag ID and other data to at least one processor via an access point or router. Additionally or alternatively, both the at least one processor and the purchaser's device may be configured to access the wired LAN via a wireless connection to an access point or router of the wired LAN. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may include a processor within the venue, such as a computing device at a checkout or cash register provided by the venue to employees or customers for use during work routines or in shopping sessions, Kiosks, or handheld devices or scanners. Thus, at least one processor may be configured to connect to the purchaser's device via the LAN since both devices are located within or close to the venue.
在图11所示的例子中，网络11002可以包括提供处理器11004与用户设备11008之间的连接的局域网(LAN)。在一些实施方案中，处理器11004和用户设备11008两者都可以具有到网络11002的硬连线连接(例如，以太网或其他网络缆线连接)。另外地或替代性地，网络11002可以包括有线接入点或路由器，处理器11004可以具有到所述有线接入点或路由器的硬连线连接，并且用户设备11008可以与所述有线接入点或路由器建立无线连接。用户设备11008可以因此经由接入点或路由器将数据(例如，特定标签ID)传输到处理器11004。In the example shown in FIG. 11, network 11002 may include a local area network (LAN) that provides a connection between processor 11004 and user device 11008. In some implementations, both processor 11004 and user device 11008 may have hardwired connections to network 11002 (eg, Ethernet or other network cable connections). Additionally or alternatively, network 11002 may include a wired access point or router, processor 11004 may have a hardwired connection to the wired access point or router, and user device 11008 may communicate with the wired access point or router. or router to establish a wireless connection. User device 11008 may thus transmit data (eg, a specific tag ID) to processor 11004 via an access point or router.
另外地或替代性地，可以经由广域网(WAN)连接从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。如本文所使用的，WAN可以包括由局域网和/或其他网络的集合形成的通信网络，使得WAN不绑定到特定的地理区域，而是在大的地理区域上延伸，或者在一些实施方案中是全球网络。WAN可以使用任何合适的通信或联网技术来实现，包括ATM、缆线调制解调器、拨号互联网、DSL、光纤、帧中继、ISDN、租赁线路、无线网络、蜂窝网络、虚拟专用网(VPN)、SONET/SDH和X.25。Additionally or alternatively, the specific tag ID may be received from a device operated by the intended purchaser via a wide area network (WAN) connection. As used herein, a WAN may include a communications network formed by a collection of local area networks and/or other networks such that the WAN is not tied to a specific geographic area but extends over a large geographic area, or in some embodiments It's a global network. A WAN can be implemented using any suitable communications or networking technology, including ATM, cable modem, dial-up Internet, DSL, fiber optic, Frame Relay, ISDN, leased line, wireless network, cellular network, virtual private network (VPN), SONET /SDH and X.25.
作为例子，图17描绘了用于连接不同地理区域中的局域网(LAN)的广域网(WAN)17310。在这个例子中，WAN 17310可以连接多个场所17312、17314和17316，每个场所可以具有用于本地通信的有线或无线LAN，如上所讨论的。例如，在一些实施方案中，每个场所17312、17314和17316可以具有被配置为图11的网络11002的其自己的本地网络；如图11所示，每个网络11002可以包括例如至少一个处理器11004、一个或多个数据结构11006、接收器11300a-11300g以及用户设备11008(参见图11)。在一些实施方案中，具有多个位置的公司或其他实体可以使用WAN 17310来提供各个场所17312、17314和17316以及另外的地点(诸如商业办公室17318、银行或数字钱包平台17320、远程或云数据存储结构17322和其他位置17324(诸如顾客的家或公司、学校、大学、图书馆、政府建筑、或可以从其寻求对商业网络的访问的任何其他位置))之间的通信。在各种实施方案中，至少一个处理器和购买者的设备可以位于不同的位置(作为非限制性例子，购买者的设备可以在场所17312内操作，而至少一个处理器可以位于商业办公室17318内)。包括特定标签ID的数据可以经由WAN17310在购买者的设备与至少一个处理器之间传输。As an example, Figure 17 depicts a wide area network (WAN) 17310 for connecting local area networks (LANs) in different geographical areas. In this example, WAN 17310 may connect multiple locations 17312, 17314, and 17316, each of which may have a wired or wireless LAN for local communications, as discussed above. For example, in some embodiments, each venue 17312, 17314, and 17316 may have its own local network configured as network 11002 of Figure 11; as shown in Figure 11, each network 11002 may include, for example, at least one processor 11004, one or more data structures 11006, receivers 11300a-11300g, and user equipment 11008 (see Figure 11). In some embodiments, a company or other entity with multiple locations may use the WAN 17310 to provide various locations 17312, 17314, and 17316 as well as additional locations such as a business office 17318, a bank or digital wallet platform 17320, remote or cloud data storage Communications between the structure 17322 and other locations 17324 such as a customer's home or business, school, university, library, government building, or any other location from which access to a business network may be sought. In various embodiments, the at least one processor and the purchaser's equipment may be located at different locations (as a non-limiting example, the purchaser's equipment may operate within the premises 17312 while the at least one processor may be located within the business office 17318 ). Data including the specific tag ID may be transmitted between the purchaser's device and the at least one processor via WAN 17310.
所公开的实施方案可以包括访问数据结构，所述数据结构包含与场所中的多个产品相关联的多个标签ID。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问数据结构，所述数据结构包含与场所中的多个产品相关联的多个标签ID。如本文所使用的，数据结构可以包括以计算机可访问形式保存在可读且可写的介质上的有序或无序信息存储。一些非限制性例子包括数据库、电子表格、目录、表格和其他数据类型。数据结构可以被设计成根据各种标准并在不同的聚合等级下实现数据部分或个别记录的针对性检索。这种检索或查询可以包括搜索单个存储的信息、搜索数据结构中与已知信息相关联的特定信息、搜索共享一些特性的多条信息等。被设计成允许查询和检索信息的数据结构可以定义标准接口，包括通过其来接收查询和退回响应的媒介、隧道或协议，以及查询的结构和内容以及响应的结构和内容的语言、格式、应用或其他定义。这种接口(例如，API)使得能够访问所述接口并了解查询和响应的格式的人、实体或设备能够从数据结构中检索信息。被称为请求者的这种人、实体或设备可能需要提供某种形式的凭证、登录、证书或标识，以便确定请求者是否被授权访问存储在数据结构中的信息。这样的授权数据对于整个数据结构可以是通用的，或者它可以对于每个和每一条存储信息是特定的，或者对于整个数据结构的特定特性和属性是特定的，但是对于其他特定特性和属性不是特定的。Disclosed embodiments may include accessing a data structure containing multiple tag IDs associated with multiple products in a venue. For example, at least one processor may be configured to access a data structure containing a plurality of tag IDs associated with a plurality of products in the venue. As used herein, a data structure may include an ordered or unordered storage of information in a computer-accessible form on a readable and writable medium. Some non-limiting examples include databases, spreadsheets, directories, tables, and other data types. Data structures can be designed to enable targeted retrieval of data portions or individual records based on various criteria and at different levels of aggregation. Such retrieval or querying may include searching for a single stored piece of information, searching for specific information in a data structure that is associated with known information, searching for multiple pieces of information that share some characteristic, etc. Data structures designed to allow querying and retrieval of information may define standard interfaces, including the medium, tunnel, or protocol over which queries are received and responses returned, as well as the language, format, and application of the structure and content of queries and the structure and content of responses. or other definition. Such an interface (eg, API) enables a person, entity, or device that has access to the interface and understands the format of the query and response to retrieve information from the data structure. Such a person, entity, or device, called a requestor, may be required to provide some form of credentials, login, certificate, or identification in order to determine whether the requestor is authorized to access the information stored in the data structure. Such authorization data may be common to the entire data structure, or it may be specific to each and every piece of stored information, or specific to certain features and attributes of the entire data structure, but not to other specific features and attributes. specific.
在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以保持记录，所述记录包括：在场所中提供的产品、与场所相关联的无线传输标签、无线传输标签的标签ID、产品与标签之间的关联、以及产品和/或标签的位置数据。每个标签ID(以及对应的无线传输标签)可以与场所中提供的产品中的至少一个产品相关联。在一些实施方案中，数据结构中的多个标签ID中的每个标签ID都可以不同于数据结构中的每个其他的标签ID。另外地或替代性地，数据结构中的多个标签ID中的每个标签ID可以与单个产品相关联，并且反之亦然。因此，每个标签ID可以唯一地标识对应的无线传输标签和场所内的相关联产品两者。在一些实施方案中，附加信息也可以存储在数据结构中。例如，与多个标签ID中的每个标签ID相关联的无线传输标签的信息(例如，标签的功率水平、制造信息等)和场所中的多个产品的信息(例如，每个产品的尺寸和颜色、价格数据、每个产品的序列号或唯一标识符、批次号、制造和/或装运历史、或关于产品的任何其他信息)也可以被存储在数据结构内并且从数据结构访问。标签ID与相关联的产品之间的关联(即，配对或相关性)可以存储在数据结构中，使得标签ID可以用于从数据结构访问相关联的产品的信息，并且反之亦然。In some embodiments, a data structure may maintain a record of: products offered at a venue, wireless transmission tags associated with the venue, tag IDs of wireless transmission tags, associations between products and tags, and products and/or the tag's location data. Each tag ID (and corresponding wireless transmission tag) may be associated with at least one product among the products offered in the venue. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of tag IDs in the data structure may be different from every other tag ID in the data structure. Additionally or alternatively, each of the plurality of tag IDs in the data structure may be associated with a single product, and vice versa. Therefore, each tag ID may uniquely identify both the corresponding wireless transmission tag and the associated product within the venue. In some implementations, additional information may also be stored in the data structure. For example, information associated with each of the plurality of tag IDs wirelessly transmits the tag (e.g., the tag's power level, manufacturing information, etc.) and information of the plurality of products in the venue (e.g., the size of each product and color, price data, serial number or unique identifier for each product, batch number, manufacturing and/or shipping history, or any other information about the product) may also be stored within and accessed from the data structure. The association (ie, pairing or correlation) between the tag ID and the associated product can be stored in the data structure such that the tag ID can be used to access information for the associated product from the data structure, and vice versa.
作为例子，图11描绘了可以经由网络11002访问数据结构11006的处理器11004；多个标签ID(以及可选地，如上文所讨论的附加信息)可以存储在数据结构11006中。作为另一个例子，图17示出了可以经由WAN 17310访问的远程数据存储结构17322；多个标签ID(以及可选地，如上文所讨论的附加信息)可以存储在数据结构17322中。因此，被配置成访问WAN17310的处理器(例如，场所17312或商业办公室17318内的处理器)可以经由WAN 17310从数据结构17322访问标签ID。As an example, Figure 11 depicts a processor 11004 that can access a data structure 11006 via a network 11002; multiple tag IDs (and optionally additional information as discussed above) can be stored in the data structure 11006. As another example, Figure 17 shows a remote data storage structure 17322 that can be accessed via the WAN 17310; multiple tag IDs (and optionally additional information as discussed above) can be stored in the data structure 17322. Therefore, a processor configured to access WAN 17310 (eg, a processor within venue 17312 or business office 17318) can access the tag ID from data structure 17322 via WAN 17310.
所公开的实施方案可以包括在数据结构中对特定标签ID执行查找。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成在数据结构中对特定标签ID执行查找，并且数据结构可以被配置成接收、处理和响应此类查找请求。至少一个处理器可以发起从存储在数据结构中的标签ID之中搜索特定标签ID。一旦在数据结构中找到特定标签ID，实施方案可以包括识别特定产品。例如，处理器可以使用所存储的产品与标签之间的关联来识别与特定标签ID相关联的特定产品。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以从数据结构访问特定产品的所存储信息。在各种实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以将特定标签ID的信息和/或特定产品的信息传输到购买者的设备。Disclosed embodiments may include performing a lookup for a specific tag ID in a data structure. For example, at least one processor may be configured to perform a lookup for a particular tag ID in the data structure, and the data structure may be configured to receive, process, and respond to such lookup requests. At least one processor may initiate a search for a particular tag ID from among tag IDs stored in the data structure. Once a specific tag ID is found in the data structure, embodiments may include identifying the specific product. For example, the processor may use the stored association between the product and the tag to identify a particular product associated with a particular tag ID. In some embodiments, at least one processor may access stored information for a particular product from the data structure. In various embodiments, at least one processor may transmit tag ID-specific information and/or product-specific information to the purchaser's device.
所公开的实施方案可以包括发起电子购买交易。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成发起电子购买交易。如本文所使用的，电子购买交易可以包括经济交易，其中一方(卖方)向第二方(买方)提供产品或服务(所购买产品)，并且第二方提供报偿(货币、货币等效资产、另一项产品或服务、或在某个未来时间提供这种报偿的承诺)作为回报。电子购买交易还可以包括在各方之间以货币支付或其他对价作为交换，转移实物、个人财产、有形或无形财产的所有权、占有权或任何其他权益，所述交易由诸如计算机、平板电脑、智能电话、云计算平台或任何其他合适的电子处理设备、部件或单元等处理器执行。在所公开的实施方案中，电子购买交易可以(例如，被至少一个处理器)发起以用于对特定产品的电子购买。例如，电子购买交易可以在预期购买者与场所之间执行：预期购买者可以通过销售、租借、租赁、协商、抵押、留置、赠与或任何自愿交易从场所获取特定产品，向场所为特定产品以货币支付或其他对价作为交换。Disclosed embodiments may include initiating an electronic purchase transaction. For example, at least one processor may be configured to initiate an electronic purchase transaction. As used herein, an electronic purchase transaction may include an economic transaction in which one party (the seller) provides a product or service (the product purchased) to a second party (the buyer), and the second party provides compensation (currency, currency equivalents, another product or service, or a promise to provide such compensation at some future time) in return. Electronic purchase transactions may also include the transfer of ownership, possession, or any other interest in physical, personal property, tangible or intangible property in exchange for a monetary payment or other consideration between parties, such as a computer, tablet, Executed by a processor such as a smartphone, cloud computing platform, or any other suitable electronic processing device, component or unit. In disclosed embodiments, an electronic purchase transaction may be initiated (eg, by at least one processor) for the electronic purchase of a particular product. For example, an electronic purchase transaction may be executed between a prospective purchaser and the Venue: the prospective purchaser may acquire specific products from the Venue by sale, lease, lease, negotiation, mortgage, lien, gift, or any voluntary transaction, and provide specific products to the Venue for specific products. Monetary payment or other consideration in exchange.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于从购买者的设备接收到特定标签ID来发起对于特定产品的电子购买交易。也就是说，可以通过特定标签ID的接收和随后在数据结构中对特定标签ID的查找来触发(即，发起)电子购买交易。替代性地，至少一个处理器可以在从设备接收特定标签ID之前或之后，接收用于发起电子购买交易的单独授权。例如，购买者的设备可以经由用户界面提示预期购买者授权购买。当预期购买者授权购买时，购买者的设备可以将授权信号传输到处理器，使得处理器发起电子购买交易。然而，至少一个处理器可以被配置成在未接收到购买者的授权时不发起电子购买交易。In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to initiate an electronic purchase transaction for a particular product based on receiving a particular tag ID from the purchaser's device. That is, an electronic purchase transaction may be triggered (ie, initiated) by receipt of a specific tag ID and subsequent lookup of the specific tag ID in a data structure. Alternatively, at least one processor may receive a separate authorization for initiating the electronic purchase transaction before or after receiving the specific tag ID from the device. For example, the purchaser's device may prompt the prospective purchaser via the user interface to authorize the purchase. When a prospective purchaser authorizes a purchase, the purchaser's device may transmit an authorization signal to the processor, causing the processor to initiate the electronic purchase transaction. However, at least one processor may be configured not to initiate an electronic purchase transaction without receiving authorization from the purchaser.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问与预期购买者相关联的金融账户或工具，以便获得资金来完成电子购买交易。如本文所使用的，与预期购买者“相关联”的账户或工具可以包括预期购买者是账户持有者或账户持有者的代理、保管者、代名人、签署者、投资顾问或监护人的账户和工具，或者预期购买者被授权从其进行对特定产品的电子购买的账户或工具。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成针对特定产品的电子购买将与预期购买者相关联的账户记入借方。例如，至少一个处理器可以链接到由预期购买者持有的银行账户或数字钱包账户(例如，PayPal、Venmo、苹果支付和Zelle)，使得处理器可以从账户借记资金以完成电子购买交易。在替代实施方案中，电子购买交易可以包括电子信用卡交易。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成在信用卡、借记卡或由预期购买者持有或预期购买者已被授权用于完成交易的其他工具上对电子购买交易收费。在一些实施方案中，一旦完成电子购买交易，至少一个处理器就可以被配置成更新数据结构以反映例如：预期购买者是特定产品的所有者，并且场所不是特定产品的所有者或持有者。In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to access a financial account or instrument associated with the prospective purchaser in order to obtain funds to complete the electronic purchase transaction. As used herein, an account or instrument "associated with" a prospective purchaser may include one in which the prospective purchaser is the account holder or the account holder's agent, custodian, nominee, signatory, investment adviser or guardian Accounts and Instruments, or accounts or instruments through which prospective purchasers are authorized to make electronic purchases of specific products. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to debit an account associated with the intended purchaser for an electronic purchase of a particular product. For example, at least one processor may be linked to a bank account or digital wallet account held by the prospective purchaser (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, and Zelle) so that the processor can debit funds from the account to complete the electronic purchase transaction. In alternative embodiments, electronic purchase transactions may include electronic credit card transactions. For example, at least one processor may be configured to charge the electronic purchase transaction on a credit card, debit card, or other instrument held by the intended purchaser or that the intended purchaser has been authorized to use to complete the transaction. In some embodiments, upon completion of the electronic purchase transaction, at least one processor may be configured to update the data structure to reflect, for example, that the intended purchaser is the owner of the specific product and the venue is not the owner or holder of the specific product .
作为例子，图17描绘了用于与银行或数字钱包平台17320通信的广域网(WAN)17310。在一些实施方案中，执行电子购买交易的处理器(例如，场所17312内的处理器)可以被配置成访问与预期购买者相关联的银行或数字钱包平台17320，以存取用于完成电子购买交易的资金。例如，处理器可以被配置成将资金从预期购买者的账户转移到与场所相关的账户。As an example, Figure 17 depicts a wide area network (WAN) 17310 for communicating with a bank or digital wallet platform 17320. In some embodiments, a processor executing an electronic purchase transaction (e.g., a processor within venue 17312) may be configured to access a bank or digital wallet platform 17320 associated with the prospective purchaser to access funds for completing the electronic purchase. Transaction funds. For example, the processor may be configured to transfer funds from the prospective purchaser's account to an account associated with the venue.
所公开的实施方案可以包括诸如由至少一个处理器致使发起警报。如本文所使用的，警报可以指由电子安全系统的部件生成的警告或通知，以用于向另一个部件、另一个系统和/或人通知电子安全系统已经检测到进入场所的未授权入侵或从场所的企图抢劫或盗窃。警报可以包括可听警告、视觉警告、触觉警告、数字消息、或传达期望信息的任何其他传输中的至少一个。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以包括被配置成发起警报的固定基础设施；例子可以包括扬声器、灯和/或图形显示器，其被布置在场所内的战略位置处，诸如在入口和/或出口处、在结账柜台或自助结账服务机附近、在储存区域中、或紧挨着试衣间。另外地或替代性地，电子安全系统可以包括其他部件，所述其他部件用于发起包括在雇员移动设备上的通知的警报、将企图盗窃、即时消息和/或自动传输的数据结构更新给本地安保。Disclosed embodiments may include causing an alarm to be initiated, such as by at least one processor. As used herein, an alarm may refer to a warning or notification generated by a component of an electronic security system for the purpose of notifying another component, another system, and/or a person that the electronic security system has detected an unauthorized intrusion into the premises or Attempted robbery or theft from the premises. The alert may include at least one of an audible warning, a visual warning, a tactile warning, a digital message, or any other transmission that conveys the desired information. In some embodiments, electronic security systems may include fixed infrastructure configured to initiate alarms; examples may include speakers, lights, and/or graphic displays placed at strategic locations within the premises, such as at entrances and/or At exits, near checkout counters or self-checkout kiosks, in storage areas, or next to fitting rooms. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic security system may include other components for initiating alerts including notifications on employee mobile devices, updating local data structures for attempted thefts, instant messaging, and/or automated transmissions. security.
至少一个处理器可以通过致使激活电子安全系统的警报发起部件而致使发起警报。在一些实施方案中，当检测到进入场所的未经授权入侵时或者在企图的抢劫、偷盗、盗窃、偷窃或产品从场所中其他损失的情况下，至少一个处理器可以致使发起警报。例如，EAS门可以被设置在场所的入口或出口附近和/或在另一个指定的位置处，并且可以被配置成将激活信号(即，EAS信号)传输到接近于EAS门的无线传输标签，诸如附接到被携带通过EAS门的产品上的标签。在特定标签从EAS门接收EAS信号的实施方案中，特定标签可以被配置成在与EAS信号不同的频段中输出信号。特定标签可以进一步被配置成在传输中包括关于标签的状态的信息，例如指示标签正在响应于从EAS门接收EAS信号而传输信号的信息。电子安全系统的所述至少一个接收器可以被配置成在由特定标签检测到EAS门时接收传输(即，在特定标签从EAS门接收EAS信号之后由特定标签传输的信号)。然而，EAS门可以不检测由特定标签传输的信号，因为所述信号可以在由EAS门检测的频率范围之外。例如，EAS门可以被调谐成检测在约7-13MHz的频率范围内和/或在约58-60kHz的频率范围内的信号，而特定标签可以被配置成在约900MHz的频段内和/或在约2.4GHz的频段内传输信号。因此，特定标签(和本文公开的其他无线传输标签)可以被配置成接近EAS门(包括通过EAS门)，而不激活EAS门警报。At least one processor may cause an alarm to be initiated by causing activation of an alarm initiating component of the electronic security system. In some embodiments, at least one processor may cause an alarm to be initiated when an unauthorized intrusion into the premises is detected or in the event of an attempted robbery, theft, burglary, theft or other loss of product from the premises. For example, an EAS door may be positioned near an entrance or exit of a venue and/or at another designated location, and may be configured to transmit an activation signal (i.e., an EAS signal) to a wireless transmitting tag proximate to the EAS door, Such as tags attached to products being carried through EAS gates. In embodiments where a particular tag receives an EAS signal from an EAS gate, the particular tag may be configured to output the signal in a different frequency band than the EAS signal. A particular tag may further be configured to include in the transmission information regarding the status of the tag, such as information indicating that the tag is transmitting a signal in response to receiving an EAS signal from an EAS gate. The at least one receiver of the electronic security system may be configured to receive a transmission when an EAS gate is detected by a particular tag (ie, a signal transmitted by a particular tag after the particular tag receives an EAS signal from the EAS gate). However, the EAS gate may not detect signals transmitted by a particular tag because the signals may be outside the frequency range detected by the EAS gate. For example, an EAS gate may be tuned to detect signals in the frequency range of approximately 7-13 MHz and/or in the frequency range of approximately 58-60 kHz, while a particular tag may be configured to detect signals in the frequency range of approximately 900 MHz and/or in the frequency range of approximately 900 MHz. Transmits signals in the frequency band of approximately 2.4GHz. Accordingly, certain tags (and other wireless transmitting tags disclosed herein) may be configured to approach an EAS door (including through an EAS door) without activating the EAS door alarm.
一旦电子安全系统的至少一个接收器检测到无线传输标签，至少一个处理器就可以被配置成确定所检测到的标签是否与尚未支付的或者以其他方式不被准许离开场所的产品相关联。例如，至少一个处理器可以对所检测到的标签的ID执行查找，以确定所述标签是否与已经购买的或者仍被包括在场所的库存列表中(这可以指示产品仍属于场所且尚未被购买)的产品相关联。如果至少一个处理器确定所检测到的标签和相关联的产品不被准许离开场所，则处理器可以致使激活警报以表明例如有人正在企图带着产品离开场所而没有对其进行支付。Once at least one receiver of the electronic security system detects the wirelessly transmitted tag, at least one processor may be configured to determine whether the detected tag is associated with product that has not been paid for or is otherwise not permitted to leave the premises. For example, at least one processor may perform a lookup on the detected tag's ID to determine whether the tag is identical to one that has already been purchased or is still included in the venue's inventory list (this may indicate that the product still belongs to the venue and has not been purchased ) products are associated. If at least one processor determines that the detected tag and associated product are not permitted to leave the premises, the processor may cause an alarm to be activated to indicate that, for example, someone is attempting to leave the premises with the product without paying for it.
例如，图1描绘了顾客1104正带着具有第一标签1100a的第一产品1106并且还带着具有第二标签1100b的第二产品1122通过EAS门1110、1112离开。如上文所讨论的，标签1100a和1100b可以接收EAS信号1118，并且作为响应，输出标签ID信号1102a和1102b。电子安全系统的接收器1124可以检测标签ID信号1102a和1102b，并且电子安全系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以确定所检测到的ID信号1102a和1102b是否与被授权通过EAS门1110、1112的产品(例如，已被购买或指定退回场所的产品)相关联。在一些实施方案中，处理器可以致使激活警告机制(诸如可听警告或闪光)以发信号通知顾客1104未被授权带着产品1106和1122离开场所(例如，顾客1104可能未能对产品进行支付)。For example, FIG. 1 depicts a customer 1104 exiting through EAS doors 1110, 1112 with a first product 1106 with a first tag 1100a and also with a second product 1122 with a second tag 1100b. As discussed above, tags 1100a and 1100b may receive EAS signals 1118 and, in response, output tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b. Receiver 1124 of the electronic security system may detect tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b, and a processor of the electronic security system (eg, processor 11004 of FIG. 11) may determine whether the detected ID signals 1102a and 1102b are consistent with authorization to pass the EAS. Products of doors 1110, 1112 (eg, products that have been purchased or designated for return to a location) are associated. In some embodiments, the processor may cause activation of a warning mechanism (such as an audible warning or flashing light) to signal that customer 1104 is not authorized to leave the premises with products 1106 and 1122 (e.g., customer 1104 may have failed to pay for the products ).
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成在特定产品的电子购买之后禁用发起警报的能力。例如，至少一个处理器可以致使在电子购买之后暂时关闭电子安全系统的警报发起部件中的一些或全部。因此，具有无线传输标签的产品可以通过EAS门(并且可选地通过其他安全点)而不发起警报。In disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to disable the ability to initiate an alert following an electronic purchase of a particular product. For example, at least one processor may cause some or all of the alarm-initiating components of the electronic security system to be temporarily shut down following an electronic purchase. Therefore, products with wirelessly transmitting tags can pass through EAS doors (and optionally other security points) without initiating an alarm.
另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器可以被配置成控制电子安全系统的警报发起部件，以当预先批准的事件发生时放弃发起警报，即使当事件将在其他方面触发警报时也是如此。例如，数据结构中的特定标签和/或产品可以被指定为被授权通过EAS门而不发起警报。被指定通过而不发起警报的产品可以包括例如已被售出的产品、正被退回的产品、正被装运到另一个场所的产品、或正由雇员带入以供场所囤货的产品。因此，当指定的标签(例如，先前所购买产品的标签)通过EAS门时，至少一个处理器可以控制电子安全系统的警报发起部件中的至少一些放弃发起警报，从而允许顾客在无中断的情况下通过EAS门取走带标签的产品。然而，当非指定的标签通过EAS门时，警报仍可以被激活，因为警报发起部件保持活动。Additionally or alternatively, at least one processor may be configured to control an alarm-initiating component of the electronic security system to forego initiating an alarm when a pre-approved event occurs, even when the event would otherwise trigger an alarm. For example, specific tags and/or products in the data structure may be designated as authorized to pass through the EAS gate without initiating an alert. Products designated to pass without initiating an alert may include, for example, products that have been sold, products that are being returned, products that are being shipped to another location, or products that are being brought in by employees for stocking by the location. Accordingly, when a designated tag (e.g., a tag for a previously purchased product) passes through the EAS door, at least one processor may control at least some of the alarm-initiating components of the electronic security system to forego initiating the alarm, thereby allowing the customer to proceed without interruption. Remove tagged products through the EAS door. However, the alarm can still be activated when a non-designated tag passes through the EAS gate because the alarm initiating component remains active.
在完成特定产品的电子购买之后，预期购买者拥有特定产品并且在不被警报中断的情况下带着产品自由地离开场所。因此，在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以包括特定标签与所购买产品相关联的指定，并且因此可以通EAS门(或另一个检查点)而不触发警报。因此，当电子安全系统的接收器从接近于EAS门的特定标签接收传输时，至少一个处理器可以确定特定标签正在通过EAS门，并且可以对特定标签ID执行查找。一旦确定特定标签ID与先前所购买产品相关联，至少一个处理器就可以禁用发起警报的能力(例如，在EAS门附近的警报部件的能力)，使得特定产品可以在无中断的情况下通过EAS门。After completing the electronic purchase of a particular product, the intended purchaser takes possession of the particular product and is free to leave the premises with the product without being interrupted by an alarm. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one processor may update the data structure to include a designation that a particular tag is associated with the purchased product, and thus the EAS gate (or another checkpoint) may be passed without triggering an alert. Thus, when a receiver of an electronic security system receives a transmission from a particular tag in proximity to an EAS gate, at least one processor can determine that the particular tag is passing through the EAS gate and can perform a lookup for the particular tag ID. Once it is determined that a particular tag ID is associated with a previously purchased product, at least one processor can disable the ability to initiate an alarm (e.g., the ability of an alarm component near an EAS door) so that the particular product can pass through the EAS without interruption Door.
再次参考图1，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器(例如，处理器11004)可以发起用于使顾客1104以电子方式购买带标签的产品1106和1122的电子购买交易。在电子购买之后，处理器可以更新数据结构11006和/或另一个数据结构以将产品1106和1122指定为被授权通过EAS门1110、1112而不触发警报。当顾客1104带着产品1106和1122接近EAS门1110、1112时，接收器1124可以接收由标签1100a、1100b传输的信号1102a、1102b。处理器可以对所检测到的标签ID执行查找并且确定标签1100a和1100b与所指定的(即，所购买的)产品相关联并且可以相应地禁用EAS门1110、1112附近的警报。因此，顾客1104可以在不被警报停止或中断的情况下带着带标签的产品1106和1122通过EAS门离开。Referring again to FIG. 1 , at least one processor of the electronic security system (eg, processor 11004 ) may initiate an electronic purchase transaction for customer 1104 to electronically purchase tagged products 1106 and 1122 . After an electronic purchase, the processor may update data structure 11006 and/or another data structure to designate products 1106 and 1122 as authorized to pass through EAS gates 1110, 1112 without triggering an alarm. When a customer 1104 approaches an EAS door 1110, 1112 with products 1106 and 1122, a receiver 1124 can receive signals 1102a, 1102b transmitted by tags 1100a, 1100b. The processor may perform a lookup on the detected tag IDs and determine that tags 1100a and 1100b are associated with the specified (ie, purchased) products and may disable alarms near EAS doors 1110, 1112 accordingly. Therefore, the customer 1104 can exit through the EAS door with the tagged products 1106 and 1122 without being stopped or interrupted by the alarm.
在所公开的实施方案中，禁用发起警报的能力可以包括对特定标签ID执行查找以确定相关联的特定产品已经被购买。例如，可以提供数据结构，所述数据结构包含由场所进行的销售和其他交易的信息，包括售出产品的标签ID和/或其他标识符。至少一个处理器可以在数据结构中对特定标签ID执行查找以访问电子购买交易的信息，以确定与特定标签ID相关联的特定产品已被购买并且因此被授权通过EAS门而不发起警报。当确定相关联的特定产品已被购买时，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以将特定标签ID和/或特定产品指定为被授权通过EAS门而不发起警报。例如，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以包括当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时不发起警报的指令，所述传输可以指示特定标签正在通过EAS门。在一些实施方案中，更新数据结构以包括不发起警报的指令可以包括从数据结构移除特定产品可供购买的指示。例如，至少一个处理器可以改变特定产品的数据结构中的状态指示符和/或特定标签以指示特定产品已被购买(并且因此不再可供购买)。另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器可以从场所中的可用库存的数据结构中的列表中移除特定产品。在一些实施方案中，更新数据结构可以例如包括：将产品的所有权状态从场所改变为购买者、改变警报发起部件的授权以响应特定标签、或从数据结构中完全删除标签。In the disclosed embodiments, disabling the ability to initiate alerts may include performing a lookup on a specific tag ID to determine that the associated specific product has been purchased. For example, a data structure may be provided that contains information about sales and other transactions conducted by the venue, including tag IDs and/or other identifiers of the products sold. At least one processor may perform a lookup in a data structure for a particular tag ID to access information about the electronic purchase transaction to determine that a particular product associated with the particular tag ID has been purchased and is therefore authorized to pass through the EAS gate without initiating an alert. When it is determined that the associated specific product has been purchased, at least one processor may update the data structure to designate the specific tag ID and/or the specific product as authorized to pass through the EAS gate without initiating an alert. For example, at least one processor may update the data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a particular tag in proximity to the EAS gate, which transmission may indicate that the particular tag is passing through the EAS gate. In some embodiments, updating the data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alert may include removing the indication that a particular product is available for purchase from the data structure. For example, at least one processor may change a status indicator and/or a particular tag in a particular product's data structure to indicate that the particular product has been purchased (and therefore is no longer available for purchase). Additionally or alternatively, at least one processor may remove specific products from the list in the data structure of available inventory at the location. In some embodiments, updating the data structure may include, for example, changing the ownership status of the product from Venue to Purchaser, changing the authorization of the alert-initiating component to respond to a specific tag, or removing the tag from the data structure entirely.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置。例如，场所内的无线传输标签可以传输信号，所述信号可以被场所中的至少一个接收器接收。然而，取决于与至少一个接收器的接近度，被每个接收器接收的信号的功率水平在幅值上可能不同。至少一个处理器可以使用此幅值数据来计算信号通过通信媒介传播的某些属性，建立诸如可以检测到信号的范围、表示已经传输信号的相对或实际距离的值、信噪比、干扰特性等参数。在无线通信的背景下，此幅值可以以功率为单位测量，通常为瓦特或dBW(分贝瓦特或dB瓦特)，其为与瓦特相关的对数单位(或者有时以dBm为单位，其以dBW与瓦特相关相同的方式与毫瓦特相关)。在这个意义上，信号的功率水平可以指例如当接收器正在有源地接收一个或多个信号时，在接收器处的信号输入端立即进行的功率测量结果。In disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to determine a tag location at the time of transmission based on transmissions received by at least one receiver. For example, a wireless transmitting tag within a venue may transmit a signal that may be received by at least one receiver within the venue. However, depending on the proximity to at least one receiver, the power level of the signal received by each receiver may differ in amplitude. At least one processor can use this amplitude data to calculate certain properties of the signal propagating through the communication medium, establishing such things as the range within which the signal can be detected, a value representing the relative or actual distance over which the signal has been transmitted, signal-to-noise ratio, interference characteristics, etc. parameter. In the context of wireless communications, this magnitude can be measured in units of power, usually in watts or dBW (decibel watts or dBW), which is the logarithmic unit related to watts (or sometimes in dBm, which is in dBW Relates to watts in the same way as milliwatts). In this sense, the power level of a signal may refer, for example, to a power measurement made immediately at the signal input at the receiver while the receiver is actively receiving one or more signals.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以通过比较在每个接收器处接收到的信号的功率水平并且基于所述比较确定无线传输标签在传输时的位置来确定在传输时(即，在标签传输信号时)的标签位置。例如，由无线传输标签传输并且由第一接收器接收到的第一信号的功率水平可以高于由场所中的其他接收器接收到的来自标签的其他信号的功率水平，这是因为标签距离第一接收器比距离其他接收器更近。第一接收器可以与给定位置相关联，并且因此，基于第一接收器接收最强信号及其与给定位置的关联，可以确定标签位于该位置。类似地，由不同接收器检测到的多个信号强度可以用于估计标签的位置。例如，使用由三个接收器检测到的三个信号强度，至少一个处理器可以对信号进行三角测量以估计或确定传输源，所述传输源可以对应于在传输时的标签位置。In some embodiments, at least one processor may determine the location of the wirelessly transmitting tag at the time of transmission (i.e., when the tag label position when transmitting signals). For example, the power level of a first signal transmitted by a wireless transmitting tag and received by a first receiver may be higher than the power level of other signals from the tag received by other receivers in the venue because the tag is further away from the One receiver is closer than the other receivers. The first receiver may be associated with a given location, and therefore, based on the first receiver receiving the strongest signal and its association with the given location, it may be determined that the tag is located at that location. Similarly, multiple signal strengths detected by different receivers can be used to estimate the tag's location. For example, using three signal strengths detected by three receivers, at least one processor may triangulate the signals to estimate or determine the source of the transmission, which may correspond to the tag's location at the time of transmission.
通过举例的方式，图13A和图13C描绘了悬挂在货架上的产品13210，所述货架可以包含被配置成传输ID信号13102的无线传输标签1100。由于标签1100接近于接收器11300c(参见图13C)，由接收器11300c接收到的信号13102的功率水平可以高于由位于远离标签1100的其他接收器(例如，接收器11300b和11300d)接收到的信号13102的功率水平。因此，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器可以确定产品13210位于图13C的货架上或其附近，因为接收器11300c和货架的位置可以预先已知。By way of example, FIGS. 13A and 13C depict products 13210 hanging on shelves that may contain wireless transmitting tags 1100 configured to transmit ID signals 13102 . Due to the proximity of tag 1100 to receiver 11300c (see Figure 13C), the power level of signal 13102 received by receiver 11300c may be higher than that received by other receivers located further away from tag 1100 (eg, receivers 11300b and 11300d) The power level of signal 13102. Therefore, at least one processor of the electronic security system can determine that product 13210 is located on or near the shelf of Figure 13C because the locations of receiver 11300c and the shelf can be known in advance.
在一些实施方案中，出于定位目的，可以预先确定信号强度模式。例如，由无线传输标签传输的信号的区域中的多个接收器(例如，EAS门附近的多个接收器)进行的测量可以导致可识别图案，所述可识别图案可以被匹配以确定未来的标签位置。可以从整个场所收集标签读数，以将信号强度模式与实际位置相关联。相关性可以存储在数据结构中。然后，在未来，可以对来自无线传输标签的信号执行查找，以基于存储的数据识别标签的位置。类似地，至少一个处理器可以随着时间的推移使用人工智能进行学习。In some embodiments, signal strength patterns may be predetermined for positioning purposes. For example, measurements made by multiple receivers in the area of the signal transmitted by the wireless transmission tag (e.g., multiple receivers near an EAS gate) can result in an identifiable pattern that can be matched to determine future Label position. Tag readings can be collected from across the premises to correlate signal strength patterns with actual location. Dependencies can be stored in data structures. Then, in the future, a lookup can be performed on the signal from the wirelessly transmitting tag to identify the tag's location based on the stored data. Similarly, at least one processor can learn over time using artificial intelligence.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成至少部分地基于所确定的标签位置来确定与EAS门的标签接近度。例如，EAS门和/或EAS门附近的接收器的位置可以预先已知。因此，至少一个处理器可以将所确定的标签位置与EAS门和/或EAS门附近的接收器的一个或多个位置进行比较以确定标签与EAS门的接近度。例如，如果特定标签的位置与EAS门之间的距离小于预定阈值(例如，1米)，则至少一个处理器可以确定特定标签正在被运输通过EAS门。因此，至少一个处理器可以执行对特定标签ID的查找，并且如果适当的话，禁用EAS门附近的部件发起警报的能力。另外地或替代性地，标签与EAS门的接近度可以由至少一个处理器基于EAS门信号的传输范围来确定，在所述传输范围之外，特定标签将不接收EAS门信号并且因此将不进行传输。In disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to determine tag proximity to the EAS door based at least in part on the determined tag location. For example, the location of the EAS door and/or the receiver near the EAS door may be known in advance. Accordingly, at least one processor may compare the determined tag position to one or more positions of the EAS gate and/or a receiver near the EAS gate to determine the tag's proximity to the EAS gate. For example, at least one processor may determine that the particular tag is being transported through the EAS gate if the distance between the location of the particular tag and the EAS gate is less than a predetermined threshold (eg, 1 meter). Thus, at least one processor can perform a lookup for a specific tag ID and, if appropriate, disable the ability of components in the vicinity of the EAS door to initiate an alarm. Additionally or alternatively, a tag's proximity to an EAS gate may be determined by at least one processor based on a transmission range of the EAS gate signal, outside of which the particular tag will not receive the EAS gate signal and therefore will not Make the transfer.
例如，图13D示出了带着产品正在接近EAS门1110、1112的顾客，所述产品具有无线传输标签1100。诸如接收器11300h的接收器可以接收由标签传输的信号13102，使得至少一个处理器可以确定标签的位置。处理器可以将标签的所确定位置与EAS门1110、1112和/或另一个参考点的已知位置进行比较以确定标签1100与EAS门的接近度。如果标签1100足够靠近EAS门1110、1112(例如，如果标签与门之间的距离小于预定阈值)，则至少一个处理器可以推断标签1100正在被运输通过EAS门1110、1112。For example, Figure 13D shows a customer approaching EAS doors 1110, 1112 with a product having a wireless transmission tag 1100. A receiver, such as receiver 11300h, can receive the signal 13102 transmitted by the tag so that at least one processor can determine the location of the tag. The processor may compare the determined location of the tag to known locations of EAS gates 1110, 1112 and/or another reference point to determine the proximity of tag 1100 to the EAS gate. If the tag 1100 is sufficiently close to the EAS gate 1110, 1112 (eg, if the distance between the tag and the gate is less than a predetermined threshold), then at least one processor may infer that the tag 1100 is being transported through the EAS gate 1110, 1112.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成处理与多个场所相关联的数据。如本文所使用的，与多个场所“相关联”的数据可以包括与多个场所有关或从多个场所收集的数据、从多个场所中的处理器接收的数据、包含在多个场所的数据结构中的数据、或以其他方式与多个场所相关或从多个场所导出的数据。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成经由Wi-Fi连接、广域网(WAN)连接、有线和/或无线局域网(LAN)连接或任何其他通信手段连接到多个场所(以及其中的网络和/或处理器)。另外地或替代性地，多个场所中的至少一些场所可以连接至单独的LAN。例如，每个场所可以连接到单独的LAN，或者替代性地，两个或更多个场所可以连接到相同的LAN。在这样的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成连接到每个场所的LAN(例如，经由WAN或另一联网配置)，使得至少一个处理器可以访问和处理与每个场所相关联的数据，诸如从与每个单独的场所相关联的处理器传输到至少一个处理器的数据。在一些实施方案中，所有场所可以是相同类型的(例如，所有场所可以是由同一实体所拥有的零售场所)。替代性地，多个场所可以包括不同类型的场所，如上文所定义的。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to process data associated with multiple locations. As used herein, data "associated with" multiple locations may include data related to or collected from multiple locations, data received from a processor in multiple locations, data contained in multiple locations Data in a data structure or otherwise related to or derived from multiple locations. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to connect to multiple locations (and the locations therein) via Wi-Fi connections, wide area network (WAN) connections, wired and/or wireless local area network (LAN) connections, or any other means of communication. network and/or processor). Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the multiple locations may be connected to a separate LAN. For example, each venue may be connected to a separate LAN, or alternatively, two or more venues may be connected to the same LAN. In such embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to connect to the LAN of each venue (e.g., via a WAN or another networking configuration) such that the at least one processor may access and process data associated with each venue. Data, such as data transmitted from a processor associated with each individual location to at least one processor. In some embodiments, all locations may be of the same type (eg, all locations may be retail locations owned by the same entity). Alternatively, the plurality of venues may include different types of venues, as defined above.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问多个数据结构，所述多个数据结构中的每个数据结构与多个场所中的一个场所唯一地相关联。如本文所使用的，与场所“唯一地相关联”可以意味着每个数据结构与这些场所中的单个场所的部件具有联网连接(例如，经由LAN、Wi-Fi等)，并且可选地，每个数据结构的物理部件位于对应的场所内。另外地或替代性地，与场所“唯一地相关联”可以意味着每个数据结构被用于存储从与对应场所相关联或以其他方式与其唯一地相关联的物品或产品收集的与其相关的数据。另外地或替代性地，与场所“唯一地相关联”可以意味着对数据结构的访问可以局限于为对应场所工作的人或可以其他方式与场所具有必须访问数据结构的关系的人。被准许访问数据结构的人可以包括例如场所的雇员、监管或监督那些雇员的人(例如，公司高管)和/或出于其他原因被准许访问数据结构的人。在一些实施方案中，每个场所可以具有其自己的包括至少一个数据结构的LAN。电子安全系统的至少一个处理器可以被配置成连接至每个场所的LAN，使得至少一个处理器可以从每个数据结构访问、改变、添加、复制或移除数据。另外地或替代性地，与每个场所唯一地相关联的数据结构可以一起驻留在单个位置中，不与多个场所相邻、在多个场所内或与多个场所相关联，并且多个数据结构中的每个数据结构与多个场所中的每个场所之间的关联可以是纯逻辑关联。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to access a plurality of data structures, each data structure of the plurality of data structures being uniquely associated with a location of a plurality of locations. As used herein, "uniquely associated with" a venue may mean that each data structure has a networking connection (e.g., via LAN, Wi-Fi, etc.) to components of a single one of those venues, and optionally, The physical components of each data structure reside in a corresponding location. Additionally or alternatively, "uniquely associated" with a locale may mean that each data structure is used to store information related thereto collected from items or products associated with or otherwise uniquely associated with the corresponding locale. data. Additionally or alternatively, being "uniquely associated with" a venue may mean that access to the data structure may be limited to those who work for the corresponding venue or may otherwise have a relationship with the venue that requires access to the data structure. Those who are permitted to access the data structure may include, for example, employees of the facility, those who supervise or supervise those employees (e.g., company executives), and/or those who are permitted to access the data structure for other reasons. In some embodiments, each location may have its own LAN including at least one data structure. At least one processor of the electronic security system may be configured to be connected to the LAN of each location such that the at least one processor can access, change, add, copy or remove data from each data structure. Additionally or alternatively, data structures uniquely associated with each location may reside together in a single location, not adjacent to, within, or associated with multiple locations, and multiple locations The association between each of the data structures and each of the multiple locations may be a purely logical association.
在图17所示的例子中，电子安全系统可以包括将多个场所17312、17314和17316互连的WAN 17310。每个场所17312、17314和17316可以连接到其自己的数据结构(例如，图11的数据结构11006)；数据结构又可以与对应的场所唯一地相关联，如上文所讨论的。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以与和数据结构相同的场所相关联，并且因此可以使用本地网络装置(例如，Wi-Fi、蓝牙、蜂窝通信、以太网等)来访问数据结构。替代性地，至少一个处理器和数据结构可以位于不同的位置(作为非限制性例子，数据结构可以与场所17312相关联，而至少一个处理器可以位于商业办公室17318或不同的场所17314内)。至少一个处理器可以经由WAN 17310连接到数据结构，并且可以从数据结构访问、改变、添加、复制或移除数据。In the example shown in Figure 17, the electronic security system may include a WAN 17310 interconnecting multiple locations 17312, 17314, and 17316. Each locale 17312, 17314, and 17316 may be connected to its own data structure (eg, data structure 11006 of Figure 11); the data structure, in turn, may be uniquely associated with the corresponding locale, as discussed above. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be associated with the same locale as the data structure, and thus may access the data structure using local network devices (eg, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, Ethernet, etc.). Alternatively, the at least one processor and data structures may be located at different locations (as non-limiting examples, the data structures may be associated with location 17312 and the at least one processor may be located within a business office 17318 or a different location 17314). At least one processor can be connected to the data structure via WAN 17310 and can access, change, add, copy, or remove data from the data structure.
在所公开的实施方案中，电子安全系统可以包括用于向无线传输标签无线地发送功率的多个发射器。如本文所使用的，发射器可以包括能够通过有线和/或无线介质发送信号的任何部件、部件组或电路系统。信号可以是例如Wi-Fi信号、蓝牙信号、蜂窝通信、以太网通信、无线电信号、磁场或电场、可听或超声信号、光信号、机械振动或传输能量和/或信息的任何其他手段。由发射器发射的信号可以由第二设备接收，在各种实施方案中，所述第二设备可以在接收到信号时被触发以执行预定义动作。In disclosed embodiments, an electronic security system may include a plurality of transmitters for wirelessly transmitting power to a wireless transmitting tag. As used herein, a transmitter may include any component, group of components, or circuitry capable of transmitting signals over wired and/or wireless media. A signal may be, for example, a Wi-Fi signal, a Bluetooth signal, cellular communication, Ethernet communication, a radio signal, a magnetic or electric field, an audible or ultrasonic signal, an optical signal, a mechanical vibration, or any other means of transmitting energy and/or information. The signal transmitted by the transmitter can be received by a second device, which, in various embodiments, can be triggered to perform a predefined action upon receipt of the signal.
与本公开文本一致，多个发射器可以被配置成以无线电信号、磁场或电场、可听或超声信号、光信号、机械振动的形式或可无线地传输到标签的任何其他能量形式向无线传输标签无线地发送功率。无线传输标签进而可以包括用于接收所传输的功率的天线或其他接收器。多个发射器可以发射恒定的、间歇的或周期性的信号以对标签供能，并且在一些实施方案中，多个发射器可以被设计为具有可调节的传输频率和/或可调节的传输功率水平。在一些实施方案中，多个发射器可以包括专用激励器，所述专用激励器被配置成根据接收到的控制信号和/或专用编程向标签无线地发送功率。另外地或替代性地，多个发射器可以包括环境能量源，诸如阳光、风、振动、声音、热量和射频信号。在一些实施方案中，发射器可以被定位在场所内或周围，以便在整个场所中传输功率信号；发射器可以被附连到场所中的某些结构(例如，墙壁、天花板、架子、显示器、或其他固定装置或部件)上、位于天花板上或上方、地板上或下方、墙壁上或后面、设置在移动或可移动设备(例如，智能电话或手持式扫描仪)上、或附连到任何其他固定或移动结构上。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成将触发命令传输到发射器，所述触发命令可以致使发射器向标签发送功率信号。Consistent with this disclosure, multiple transmitters may be configured to transmit wirelessly in the form of radio signals, magnetic or electric fields, audible or ultrasonic signals, optical signals, mechanical vibrations, or any other form of energy that may be wirelessly transmitted to the tag. The tag sends power wirelessly. The wireless transmitting tag may in turn include an antenna or other receiver for receiving the transmitted power. Multiple transmitters may emit constant, intermittent, or periodic signals to power tags, and in some embodiments, multiple transmitters may be designed to have adjustable transmission frequencies and/or adjustable transmissions power level. In some embodiments, the plurality of transmitters may include dedicated energizers configured to wirelessly send power to the tag based on received control signals and/or dedicated programming. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of emitters may include ambient energy sources such as sunlight, wind, vibration, sound, heat, and radio frequency signals. In some embodiments, transmitters may be positioned in or around the venue to transmit a power signal throughout the venue; the transmitters may be attached to certain structures in the venue (e.g., walls, ceilings, shelves, displays, or other fixture or component), located on or above the ceiling, on or below the floor, on or behind a wall, mounted on a mobile or transportable device (e.g., a smartphone or handheld scanner), or attached to any On other fixed or mobile structures. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to transmit a trigger command to the transmitter that may cause the transmitter to send a power signal to the tag.
例如，图13A-图13D描绘了被配置成向无线传输标签1100无线地发送功率信号13118的多个发射器13400a-13400e。在这个例子中，发射器13400a-13400e可以被配置为安装到建筑物周围的天花板或墙壁上的激励器。无线标签1100可以从信号13118接收和采集能量并且可以使用所采集的能量来为它们的操作供能，包括传输ID信号13102。在一些实施方案中，发射器13400a-13400e可以从场所的处理器11004接收触发信号，并且作为响应，向标签发送功率信号13118。另外地或替代性地，发射器13400a-13400e可以被预编程以发送功率信号13118，诸如按照预定计划或者当确定场所中的无线标签之一电量低时。For example, FIGS. 13A-13D depict multiple transmitters 13400a-13400e configured to wirelessly transmit a power signal 13118 to a wireless transmitting tag 1100. In this example, transmitters 13400a-13400e may be configured as exciters mounted to ceilings or walls around a building. Wireless tags 1100 can receive and harvest energy from signal 13118 and can use the harvested energy to power their operations, including transmitting ID signal 13102 . In some embodiments, transmitters 13400a-13400e may receive a trigger signal from the venue's processor 11004 and, in response, send a power signal 13118 to the tag. Additionally or alternatively, transmitters 13400a-13400e may be preprogrammed to transmit power signals 13118, such as on a predetermined schedule or when it is determined that one of the wireless tags in the venue is low on battery.
在一些实施方案中，多个发射器可以被配置成在约900MHz的频段内向无线传输标签无线地发送功率。如本文所使用的，约900MHz的频段可以指通常在任何地区或管辖区内为RFID目的保留的超高频(UHF)频段的任何一个或多个部分。例子可以包括902-928MHz(在美国使用)、865-868MHz(在欧盟使用)的UHF RFID频段以及952-956.4MHz和952-957.6MHz，后两者都在标准UHF RFID范围之外，但在日本先前用于UHF RFID，而且在本公开文本和此上下文中，它们都在约900MHz的频段内。In some embodiments, multiple transmitters may be configured to wirelessly transmit power to the wireless transmitting tag within a frequency band of approximately 900 MHz. As used herein, the approximately 900 MHz band may refer to any one or more portions of the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band generally reserved for RFID purposes in any region or jurisdiction. Examples could include the UHF RFID bands 902-928MHz (used in the United States), 865-868MHz (used in the European Union), and 952-956.4MHz and 952-957.6MHz, both of which are outside the standard UHF RFID range but are used in Japan Previously used for UHF RFID, and in this disclosure and in this context they are within the band of approximately 900 MHz.
另外地或替代性地，多个发射器可以被配置成在约2.4GHz的频段内向无线传输标签无线地发送功率。如本文所使用的，约2.4GHz的频段可以指UHF频段的任何一个或多个部分，其被指定用于各种科学、医疗和工业应用中的射频能量。约2.4GHz的频段的服务和用户可以使用某些无线电通信技术，诸如Wi-Fi、蓝牙低功耗(BLE)和经典蓝牙，用于无线局域网和个人区域网络。许多管辖区可以为这些技术保留标准2.4GHz范围内的多个频段中的一个或多个频段；然而，一些管辖区可以采用此标准之外的多个频段和/或其他独特频段。与通常指定用于UHD RFID的频段一样，为类似目的指定的约2.4GHz的频段可能根据地区和管辖区而不同，并且可能会有所变化。例如，根据电气和电子工程师协会(IEEE)802.11，一组局域网(LAN)协议指定了一组媒体访问控制(MAC)和物理层(PHY)协议，用于在包括约2.4GHz的频段的频率中实现WLAN Wi-Fi通信，并且是世界上最广泛使用的无线计算机网络标准。随着时间的推移，IEEE修改了802.11，将2.4GHz范围之外的频段指定为类似用途，诸如5GHz和甚至60GHz。因此，可以设想，无线计算机网络的标准频率范围在未来可能会发生变化。因此，应当理解，与本公开文本一致，“约2.4GHz的频段”可以指宽范围的潜在频段。Additionally or alternatively, a plurality of transmitters may be configured to wirelessly transmit power to the wireless transmitting tag within a frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz. As used herein, the frequency band about 2.4 GHz may refer to any portion or portions of the UHF frequency band, which is designated for radio frequency energy in a variety of scientific, medical, and industrial applications. Services and users in the frequency band around 2.4GHz can use certain radio communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Bluetooth Classic for wireless LANs and personal area networks. Many jurisdictions may reserve one or more of the multiple frequency bands within the standard 2.4GHz range for these technologies; however, some jurisdictions may adopt multiple frequency bands outside of this standard and/or other unique frequency bands. As with the frequency bands generally designated for UHD RFID, the frequency band around 2.4GHz designated for similar purposes may vary by region and jurisdiction and is subject to change. For example, according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11, a set of local area network (LAN) protocols that specify a set of media access control (MAC) and physical layer (PHY) protocols for use in frequencies including the band approximately 2.4GHz Enables WLAN Wi-Fi communications and is the world's most widely used wireless computer network standard. Over time, the IEEE modified 802.11 to designate frequency bands outside the 2.4GHz range for similar uses, such as 5GHz and even 60GHz. Therefore, it is conceivable that the standard frequency range for wireless computer networks may change in the future. Therefore, it should be understood that, consistent with this disclosure, a "band of about 2.4 GHz" may refer to a wide range of potential frequency bands.
在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以被配置成采集从多个发射器发送的能量并使用所采集的能量来为标签的操作供能。例如，能量可以由采集电路采集，并由标签的能量存储部件或能够积聚能量的任何元件或电路存储。通过举例的方式，图9所展示的示例性无线传输标签1100可以包括天线2112，所述天线被调谐为从发射器接收低于1GHz的频率的能量(例如，约900MHz的频段中的能量)并将所采集的能量传送到900MHz采集器9012。另外地或替代性地，标签1100可以包括天线2114，所述天线被调谐为从发射器接收约2.4GHz的频段中的能量，并将所采集的能量传送到2.4GHz采集器9014。所采集的能量可以存储在能量存储电路2108中并且随后用于对无线传输标签1100的操作供能，包括对发射器2104进行的传输供能。In some embodiments, a wireless transmitting tag may be configured to harvest energy transmitted from multiple transmitters and use the harvested energy to power operation of the tag. For example, energy may be harvested by a harvesting circuit and stored by the tag's energy storage component or any element or circuit capable of accumulating energy. By way of example, the exemplary wireless transmitting tag 1100 shown in FIG. 9 may include an antenna 2112 that is tuned to receive energy from a transmitter at frequencies below 1 GHz (eg, energy in the frequency band approximately 900 MHz) and The collected energy is transmitted to the 900MHz collector 9012. Additionally or alternatively, tag 1100 may include an antenna 2114 tuned to receive energy in a frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz from a transmitter and transmit the harvested energy to a 2.4 GHz collector 9014 . The harvested energy may be stored in energy storage circuitry 2108 and subsequently used to power operations of wireless transmitting tag 1100 , including powering transmissions by transmitter 2104 .
图15是展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的用于库存控制操作的示例性过程15110的流程图。过程15110是通过举例的方式提供的，并且普通技术人员将认识到与本公开文本一致的用于库存控制的各种其他过程。在步骤15112，过程15110可以包括接收来自多个无线传输标签的传输。在一些实施方案中，传输可以由示例性电子安全系统的至少一个接收器接收。在步骤15114，过程15110可以包括从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID。特定标签ID可以与多个无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签(例如，特定标签)相关联，所述特定一个无线传输标签可以进而与从场所预期购买的特定产品相关联。在步骤15116，过程15110可以包括访问包含多个标签ID的数据结构。标签ID可以与场所中的多个产品相关联。例如，每个标签ID可以与单个产品相关联并且可以唯一地标识该产品。在步骤15118，过程15110可以包括在数据结构中对特定标签ID执行查找。在步骤15120，由于特定标签与特定产品之间的关联，执行对特定标签ID的查找可以识别特定产品并且使得能够从数据结构访问特定产品的信息。在步骤15122，过程15110可以包括发起对于特定产品的电子购买交易。电子购买交易可以针对特定产品的电子购买来执行，并且可以将与特定产品的预期购买者相关联的账户记入借方。在步骤15124，过程15110可以包括当从接近于与场所相关联的电子物品监视(EAS)门的特定标签接收到传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process 15110 for inventory control operations consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Process 15110 is provided by way of example, and those of ordinary skill will recognize various other processes for inventory control consistent with this disclosure. At step 15112, process 15110 may include receiving transmissions from a plurality of wireless transmitting tags. In some implementations, the transmission may be received by at least one receiver of the exemplary electronic security system. At step 15114, process 15110 may include receiving a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser. The specific tag ID may be associated with a specific one of a plurality of wireless transmission tags (eg, a specific tag), which may in turn be associated with a specific product intended for purchase from the venue. At step 15116, process 15110 may include accessing a data structure containing a plurality of tag IDs. Tag IDs can be associated with multiple products in a venue. For example, each tag ID can be associated with a single product and can uniquely identify that product. At step 15118, process 15110 may include performing a lookup for the specific tag ID in the data structure. At step 15120, due to the association between the specific tag and the specific product, performing a lookup for the specific tag ID can identify the specific product and enable access to the specific product's information from the data structure. At step 15122, process 15110 may include initiating an electronic purchase transaction for the particular product. Electronic purchase transactions may be executed for the electronic purchase of a specific product and may debit an account associated with the intended purchaser of the specific product. At step 15124, process 15110 may include disabling the ability to initiate an alarm when a transmission is received from a specific tag proximate to an electronic article surveillance (EAS) door associated with the venue.
所公开的实施方案可以包括电子安全系统，所述电子安全系统用于验证在线购买、商店内取货(BOPIS)交易并保护先前所购买产品免受盗窃。在一种示例性模式下，顾客可以例如通过与商店相关联的网站、通过电话订购或经由其他装置远程购买期望的物品(诸如食品、电子产品和家用货物)，而不需要在商店中订购它们。一旦商店完成订单，顾客就可以来到商店并拾取所购买物品，而无需排队等待或与商店员工交互。这种模式(被称为BOPIS)的一个例子避免了诸如递送费用、订单完成错误和长递送等待时间等递送服务的不利方面。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems for authenticating online purchases, pick up in store (BOPIS) transactions and protecting previously purchased products from theft. In one exemplary mode, customers can purchase desired items (such as food, electronics, and household goods) remotely, such as through a website associated with the store, by ordering by phone, or via other devices, without ordering them in the store . Once a store fulfills an order, customers can come to the store and pick up their purchased items without having to wait in line or interact with store employees. An example of this model, known as BOPIS, avoids the downsides of delivery services such as delivery fees, order fulfillment errors, and long delivery wait times.
BOPIS模式的缺点是盗窃和订购混淆的风险。在许多情况下，使用BOPIS模式的场所在专用储存区中存放已完成订单，只有员工可访问该区域。这要求希望使用BOPIS模式的顾客需要找到可访问专用BOPIS储存区的员工成员(有可能在排队并等待之后)，向那个人表明自己的身份，并然后等待那个人去专用BOPIS储存区并取回他们的包装。这种实现方式导致顾客的用户体验次优并且增加了员工负担，从而降低了BOPIS的优势。在一些情况下，使用BOPIS模式的场所具有指定区域(例如，货架或桌子)，商店员工在该处留下已完成订单以供购买者拾取。盗窃者可以冒充购买者并且从指定区域取走其他人已经支付的物品。而且，顾客可能无意中拾取了其他顾客的订单，导致多个顾客无法获得他们已经支付的物品。因此，诸如对于BOPIS模式，需要保护已完成订单免受盗窃，同时也使拾取过程流程化以使订单混淆的发生最小化。The disadvantages of the BOPIS model are the risk of theft and order mix-up. In many cases, locations using the BOPIS model store completed orders in a dedicated storage area that only employees have access to. This requires that a customer wishing to use the BOPIS model needs to find a staff member who has access to the dedicated BOPIS storage area (possibly after queuing and waiting), identify themselves to that person, and then wait for that person to go to the dedicated BOPIS storage area and retrieve it. their packaging. This implementation resulted in a suboptimal user experience for customers and increased staff burden, thereby reducing the benefits of BOPIS. In some cases, locations using the BOPIS model have designated areas (e.g., shelves or tables) where store employees leave completed orders for purchasers to pick up. Thieves can impersonate buyers and take items from designated areas that others have paid for. Also, customers may inadvertently pick up other customers' orders, leaving multiple customers without the items they paid for. Therefore, for example with the BOPIS model, completed orders need to be protected from theft while also streamlining the picking process to minimize the occurrence of order mix-ups.
所公开的实施方案可以涉及用于验证和控制对所购买产品的商店内拾取的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括用于提供对产品的商店内拾取的场所的电子安全系统，所述产品附接到无线传输标签或以其他方式与无线传输标签相关联。顾客可以经由商店外交易(诸如在线或经由电话)来购买产品。当顾客到达商店以取回她的订单时，她可以经由移动设备(诸如智能电话或平板电脑)通知电子安全系统。基于所述通知，商店中的防盗警报和其他保护措施可以被解除激活，使得顾客可以顺利地取回所购买产品并离开。然而，防盗警报和其他保护措施可以对于尚未被购买或系统尚未从购买者接收到拾取通知的所有带标签的产品保持活动。因此，当盗窃者试图在不购买产品的情况下从商店取走所述产品时或当顾客取回错误的订单时，电子安全系统可以检测与所述产品相关联的标签并发起防盗警报和其他保护措施。有利地，所公开的实施方案可以提供高效且无接触的BOPIS交易，同时还防止对顾客订单的盗窃或混淆。Disclosed embodiments may relate to systems, methods, and computer-readable media for authenticating and controlling in-store pickup of purchased products. Embodiments may include an electronic security system for providing a location for in-store pickup of products attached to or otherwise associated with a wireless transmission tag. Customers may purchase products via out-of-store transactions, such as online or over the phone. When a customer arrives at the store to retrieve her order, she can notify the electronic security system via a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Based on the notification, anti-theft alarms and other protective measures in the store can be deactivated, allowing the customer to smoothly retrieve the purchased product and leave. However, anti-theft alarms and other protections may remain active for all tagged products that have not yet been purchased or for which the system has not yet received a pickup notification from the purchaser. Therefore, when a thief attempts to take a product from a store without purchasing it or when a customer retrieves an incorrect order, the electronic security system can detect the tag associated with the product and initiate an anti-theft alarm and other Safeguard. Advantageously, the disclosed embodiments can provide efficient and contactless BOPIS transactions while also preventing theft or mix-up of customer orders.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方所描述的电子安全系统。电子安全系统可以进一步被配置成在警报、通知或文档中包括与企图的入侵或盗窃有关的其他信息，诸如被识别或推测识别为参与事件的一个或多个人的身份或推测身份、或事件中涉及的一个或多个物体的识别或推测识别(包括但不限于正在企图盗窃的物体、或在事件期间被识别或推测识别为并非企图盗窃或未经授权入侵的主体的其他物体)。电子安全系统可以另外地包括其他元件、电路系统、电路部件和系统，其可以有益于检测和/或发信号通知未经授权的入侵、企图的抢劫、偷盗或盗窃、或者指定位置处的其他损失。电子安全系统可以包括一个或多个前述元件。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The electronic security system may further be configured to include in the alert, notification, or document other information relevant to the attempted intrusion or theft, such as the identity or presumed identity of one or more persons identified or presumed to be involved in the incident, or in the incident. The identification or presumed identification of the object or objects involved (including, but not limited to, the object being attempted theft, or other objects identified or presumed identified during the incident as being other than the subject of the attempted theft or unauthorized intrusion). Electronic security systems may additionally include other elements, circuitry, circuit components, and systems that may be useful in detecting and/or signaling unauthorized intrusion, attempted robbery, theft or theft, or other loss at a designated location . Electronic security systems may include one or more of the aforementioned elements.
在所公开的实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被提供用于提供对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的场所。在一些实施方案中，对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取可以指这样的实践：通过所述实践，顾客或被授权代表顾客行事的其他人在不实际上出现在场所的同时，购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式从场所获取一个或多个产品，并在以后的时间从场所取得产品实物拥有权。因此，在购买时间与顾客取回产品之间，产品可以由场所持有或控制(例如，在场所内保管)，但可以由顾客拥有或合法占有。在一些实施方案中，顾客可以远程购买产品，诸如经由电话或在与场所相关联的网站或应用上。在一些情况下，这样的远程购买(例如，经由app或网站)可能会出现在购买者实际上处于场所中或其附近，但是希望不立即取走所购买产品，而是让他们在某个稍后的时间做好准备进行拾取时。场所的雇员然后可以收集和打包顾客购买的产品，并将产品留在顾客可取回产品的指定拾取区域；示例拾取区域可以包括场所内的指定货架或桌子。另外地或替代性地，顾客可以在场所购买产品，并将产品留在场所以供在稍后的时间取回。在一些实施方案中，顾客(或被授权代表顾客行事的其他人)可以进入场所以取回产品，并且可以随其持有物带着产品离开。另外地或替代性地，顾客可以停留在场所附近的外面(例如，在他们的汽车中)，并且场所的雇员可以将产品带出给顾客(即，路边拾取)。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以诸如经由文本消息、电子邮件、电话呼叫或寻呼机来通知顾客：其订单何时准备好被拾取。In the disclosed embodiments, an electronic security system may be provided to provide a location for in-store pickup of previously purchased products. In some embodiments, in-store pickup of previously purchased products may refer to the practice whereby a customer, or another person authorized to act on the customer's behalf, purchases, rents, Lease or otherwise acquire one or more Products from the Premises and take physical possession of the Products from the Premises at a later time. Therefore, between the time of purchase and the customer's pickup of the product, the product may be held or controlled by the venue (e.g., kept on the premises), but may be in the customer's possession or lawful possession. In some embodiments, customers can purchase products remotely, such as via phone or on a website or application associated with the venue. In some cases, such remote purchases (e.g., via an app or website) may occur where the purchaser is actually in or near the venue, but wishes not to pick up the purchased product immediately, but rather has them pick up the product at some point. Later time when ready for pickup. Employees of the facility may then collect and package the products purchased by the customer and leave the products in a designated pickup area where customers can retrieve the products; example pickup areas may include designated shelves or tables within the facility. Additionally or alternatively, customers may purchase products on location and leave the products on location for pickup at a later time. In some embodiments, a customer (or other person authorized to act on the customer's behalf) may enter the premises to retrieve the product and may leave with the product in his or her possession. Additionally or alternatively, the customer can remain outside near the venue (eg, in their car), and an employee of the venue can take the product out to the customer (ie, curbside pickup). In some embodiments, the electronic security system may notify customers when their order is ready for pickup, such as via text message, email, phone call, or pager.
在一些公开的实施方案中，先前所购买产品可以具有相关联的无线传输标签。如本文所公开的，无线传输标签可以包括任何可无线检测的设备，诸如射频识别(RFID)设备、蓝牙低功耗(BLE)信标设备、近场通信(NFC)设备、包括由射频能量供能的微控制器的设备、或者被配置成传输能够检测的信号的任何其他结构。在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括至少一个天线或者被配置用于从空气或从任何其他介质接收和/或输出能量的任何其他部件、电路和/或设备。例如，无线传输标签可以被配置成接收和/或输出电磁辐射、电场、磁场、声学信号(诸如在声纳应用中)或光学信号(例如在激光应用中)。在一些公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以被配置成在一个或多个预定频段中传输信号。预定频段的一些非限制性例子可以包括约900MHz的频段(其可以包括例如超高频RFID信号)、约2.4GHz的频段(其可以包括例如蓝牙和Wi-Fi)、以及约13.6MHz的频段(其可以包括例如高频RFID和NFC)。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以不需要电池，而是可以利用采集的能量操作(如本文所公开的)。In some disclosed embodiments, previously purchased products may have associated wireless transmission tags. As disclosed herein, wirelessly transmitting tags may include any wirelessly detectable device, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) devices, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon devices, near field communications (NFC) devices, including those powered by radio frequency energy. A device capable of a microcontroller, or any other structure configured to transmit a signal capable of being detected. In the disclosed embodiments, a wireless transmitting tag may include at least one antenna or any other component, circuit, and/or device configured to receive and/or output energy from the air or from any other medium. For example, wireless transmitting tags may be configured to receive and/or output electromagnetic radiation, electric fields, magnetic fields, acoustic signals (such as in sonar applications), or optical signals (such as in laser applications). In some disclosed embodiments, wireless transmitting tags may be configured to transmit signals in one or more predetermined frequency bands. Some non-limiting examples of predetermined frequency bands may include a frequency band of approximately 900 MHz (which may include, for example, ultra-high frequency RFID signals), a frequency band of approximately 2.4 GHz (which may include, for example, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi), and a frequency band of approximately 13.6 MHz ( This may include, for example, high frequency RFID and NFC). In some embodiments, wireless transmitting tags may not require batteries but may operate using harvested energy (as disclosed herein).
所公开的实施方案可以包括对产品的商店内拾取。例如，对产品的商店内拾取可以指从场所向另一个人或实体(诸如产品的购买者)转移对一个或多个产品的占有或控制(以及可选地，转移所有权)。在一些实施方案中，拾取产品的人可以预先或在取得拥有权时购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式获取产品(例如，产品可以是先前所购买产品)。在一些实施方案中，拾取产品的人可以进入场所以取回产品，并且可以随其持有物带着产品离开。另外地或替代性地，拾取产品的人可以停留在场所附近的外面(例如，在他们的汽车中)，并且场所的雇员可以将产品带出给他们。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以诸如经由文本消息、电子邮件、电话呼叫或寻呼机来通知拾取产品的人：产品何时准备好被拾取。在所公开的实施方案中，产品可以与无线传输标签相关联，如上文所讨论的。Disclosed embodiments may include in-store pickup of products. For example, in-store pickup of a product may refer to the transfer of possession or control (and, optionally, ownership) of one or more products from a location to another person or entity, such as a purchaser of the products. In some embodiments, the person picking up the product may purchase, rent, lease, or otherwise acquire the product in advance or upon taking ownership (eg, the product may be a previously purchased product). In some embodiments, a person picking up a product may enter the premises to retrieve the product and may leave with the product in his or her possession. Additionally or alternatively, the person picking up the product can stay outside near the venue (eg, in their car), and an employee of the venue can bring the product out to them. In some embodiments, the electronic security system may notify the person picking up the product when the product is ready to be picked up, such as via text message, email, phone call, or pager. In the disclosed embodiments, products may be associated with wireless transmission tags, as discussed above.
通过举例的方式，图16展示了用于场所的电子安全系统，所述场所提供对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取。在图16所示的场所中销售的产品可以具有相关联的无线传输标签，诸如标签1100。图16所描绘的电子安全系统可以包括在每个入口处的EAS门(下文讨论)1110、1112、被配置成向标签1100递送能量的发射器13400a-13400e、以及被配置成检测来自标签1100的传输的接收器11300a-11300h。在一些实施方案中，顾客可以诸如在结账柜台处经由自助服务机16010或通过在移动设备(例如，图11的用户设备11008)上完成购买来购买场所内的产品。一旦完成对带标签的产品的购买，电子安全系统就可以被配置成禁用警报器1114，使得顾客可以在无中断的情况下离开场所。另外地或替代性地，顾客可以远程(例如，在线、在应用上、或经由电话)购买产品，并且来到场所拾取其购买的产品。场所可以包括指定的拾取区域，诸如货架13240，场所的员工可以将已放置在包装16012中且准备好被拾取的订单留在所述拾取区域处。如下文详细讨论的，电子安全系统可以被配置成在顾客来到场所时停用警报器1114以拾取她购买的产品，使得顾客可以在无中断的情况下离开场所。By way of example, Figure 16 illustrates an electronic security system for a location offering in-store pickup of previously purchased products. Products sold in the venue shown in Figure 16 may have associated wireless transmission tags, such as tag 1100. The electronic security system depicted in FIG. 16 may include EAS gates (discussed below) 1110, 1112 at each entrance, emitters 13400a-13400e configured to deliver energy to tag 1100, and configured to detect energy from tag 1100. Transmitted receivers 11300a-11300h. In some embodiments, a customer may purchase products within a venue, such as via a kiosk 16010 at a checkout counter or by completing a purchase on a mobile device (eg, user device 11008 of Figure 11). Once the purchase of the tagged product is completed, the electronic security system can be configured to disable the alarm 1114 so that the customer can leave the premises without interruption. Additionally or alternatively, a customer may purchase products remotely (eg, online, on an app, or via phone) and come to the location to pick up their purchased products. The location may include a designated pickup area, such as a shelf 13240, where employees of the location may leave orders that have been placed in packaging 16012 and are ready to be picked. As discussed in detail below, the electronic security system can be configured to deactivate the alarm 1114 when the customer comes to the venue to pick up her purchased products so that the customer can leave the venue without interruption.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门。如本文所公开的，EAS门可以包括监视或防盗窃系统，所述系统具有至少一个天线或发射器，所述至少一个天线或发射器被配置成将无线信号传输到安全标签，所述安全标签被附接到或以其他方式关联于被带到EAS门附近的产品。响应于从EAS门接收到无线信号，安全标签可以被配置成输出第二无线信号，所述第二无线信号可以用于触发防盗警报。在一些实施方案中，EAS门的天线或发射器可以结合在位于场所的入口或出口附近或另一个指定位置处的一个或多个基座内。另外地或替代性地，EAS门可以包括隐蔽的EAS门。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one electronic article surveillance (EAS) door. As disclosed herein, an EAS door may include a surveillance or anti-theft system having at least one antenna or transmitter configured to transmit a wireless signal to a security tag, the security tag Attached to or otherwise associated with products brought into proximity of the EAS door. In response to receiving the wireless signal from the EAS door, the security tag can be configured to output a second wireless signal, which can be used to trigger the anti-theft alarm. In some embodiments, the EAS door's antenna or transmitter may be incorporated into one or more bases located near the entrance or exit of the venue or at another designated location. Additionally or alternatively, the EAS door may include a concealed EAS door.
通过举例的方式，图13D展示了包括第一基座1110和第二基座1112的示例性EAS门，每个基座具有被配置成在预定的频段内传输EAS信号13118c的发射器，所述预定频段诸如为58-60kHz(AM-EAS波)的频段和/或7-13MHz(RF-EAS波)的频段。EAS门1110、1112还可以包括被配置成接收在与EAS信号13118c相同频段内的无线信号的EAS接收器。例如，EAS接收器可以接收由EAS安全标签传输的信号，所述EAS安全标签被带到EAS门1110、1112附近并且被EAS信号13118c触发。当接收到与EAS信号1118在相同频段中的无线信号时，EAS接收器可以触发警报器，从而指示带标签的产品通过EAS门1110、1112。By way of example, FIG. 13D illustrates an exemplary EAS gate including a first base 1110 and a second base 1112, each base having a transmitter configured to transmit an EAS signal 13118c within a predetermined frequency band, The predetermined frequency band is such as a frequency band of 58-60 kHz (AM-EAS wave) and/or a frequency band of 7-13 MHz (RF-EAS wave). EAS gates 1110, 1112 may also include EAS receivers configured to receive wireless signals within the same frequency band as EAS signal 13118c. For example, an EAS receiver may receive a signal transmitted by an EAS security tag that is brought near the EAS door 1110, 1112 and triggered by the EAS signal 13118c. When receiving a wireless signal in the same frequency band as the EAS signal 1118, the EAS receiver can trigger an alarm, thereby indicating that the tagged product passes through the EAS gates 1110, 1112.
在一些实施方案中，示例性无线传输标签1100可以被配置成当与标签相关联的产品通过EAS门1110、1112时检测EAS信号13118c。例如，EAS信号13118c的电磁能量可以由无线传输标签1100的线圈2110接收，由此激活或触发标签。一旦激活，无线传输标签1100就可以传输ID信号13102(例如，用图2和图9所描绘的发射器2104)。ID信号13102可以具有与EAS信号13118c不同的频率(例如，ID信号13102可以具有约2.4GHz的频率，而EAS信号13118c可在58-60kHz或7-13MHz之间的频段内)。在一些实施方案中，门1110、1112的EAS接收器可以不被ID信号13102触发，因为ID信号13102可以在EAS接收器的指定频段之外。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签1100可以不生成任何信号或不干扰由EAS门1110、1120生成的任何信号，使得标签不能被EAS门的接收器1120检测到。替代地，电子安全系统可以包括另一个接收器11300h，其被配置成接收ID信号13102并且采取一个或多个对应的动作，诸如激活警报或将信号传输到至少一个处理器以完成对与标签1100相关联的产品的电子购买。In some implementations, the example wireless transmitting tag 1100 may be configured to detect an EAS signal 13118c when a product associated with the tag passes through the EAS gates 1110, 1112. For example, the electromagnetic energy of the EAS signal 13118c may be received by the coil 2110 of the wireless transmission tag 1100, thereby activating or triggering the tag. Once activated, the wireless transmitting tag 1100 can transmit an ID signal 13102 (eg, with the transmitter 2104 depicted in Figures 2 and 9). ID signal 13102 may have a different frequency than EAS signal 13118c (eg, ID signal 13102 may have a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz, while EAS signal 13118c may be in a frequency band between 58-60 kHz or 7-13 MHz). In some embodiments, the EAS receivers of gates 1110, 1112 may not be triggered by the ID signal 13102 because the ID signal 13102 may be outside the EAS receiver's designated frequency band. In some embodiments, the wireless transmitting tag 1100 may not generate any signals or interfere with any signals generated by the EAS gates 1110, 1120 such that the tag cannot be detected by the EAS gate's receiver 1120. Alternatively, the electronic security system may include another receiver 11300h configured to receive the ID signal 13102 and take one or more corresponding actions, such as activating an alarm or transmitting the signal to at least one processor to complete pairing with the tag 1100 Electronic purchases of associated products.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个接收器，所述至少一个接收器被配置成从无线传输标签接收传输。例如，图13A-图13D描绘了示例性电子安全系统，所述电子安全系统包括分布在整个场所中的多个接收器11300a-h，以接收来自无线标签1100和其他传输设备的信号的广播。接收器11300a-h可以附连或以其他方式附接到墙壁、天花板、架子、显示器、或场所内的能够支撑接收器的任何其他固定装置或部件。如图13B所示，接收器11300a-h可以被配置成接收来自无线传输标签1100的ID信号13102的传输。每个接收器11300a-h可以包括第一天线2112和第二天线2114中的至少一个，所述第一天线被调谐为接收在约900MHz的频率下的能量(例如，RFID信号)，所述第二天线被调谐为接收在约2.4GHz的频率下的能量(例如，Wi-Fi、蓝牙低能耗(BLE)、或经典蓝牙)。如图11所示，接收器11300a-h可以被配置成接收来自无线传输标签1100的数据传输，并且经由网络11002将数据传输到无线识别系统11000的其他部件。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from wireless transmitting tags. For example, Figures 13A-13D depict an exemplary electronic security system that includes multiple receivers 11300a-h distributed throughout a venue to receive broadcasts of signals from wireless tags 1100 and other transmitting devices. Receivers 11300a-h may be attached or otherwise attached to a wall, ceiling, shelf, display, or any other fixture or component within the venue capable of supporting the receivers. As shown in FIG. 13B , receivers 11300a - h may be configured to receive transmissions of ID signals 13102 from wirelessly transmitting tags 1100 . Each receiver 11300a-h may include at least one of a first antenna 2112 tuned to receive energy (eg, RFID signals) at a frequency of approximately 900 MHz, and a second antenna 2114. The two antennas are tuned to receive energy at a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz (eg, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or Bluetooth Classic). As shown in FIG. 11 , receivers 11300a - h may be configured to receive data transmissions from wireless transmitting tags 1100 and transmit the data to other components of wireless identification system 11000 via network 11002 .
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个处理器。如上文所讨论的，至少一个处理器可以包括具有数据处理能力的任何种类的电子设备、部件或单元，通过非限制性举例的方式包括个人计算机、可穿戴计算机、平板电脑、智能电话、服务器、计算系统、云计算平台、通信设备、数字信号处理器(DSP)、图像信号处理器(ISR)、微控制器、现场可编程门阵列(FPGA)、专用集成电路(ASIC)、中央处理单元(CPA)、图形处理单元(GPU)、视觉处理单元(VPU)、任何其他电子计算设备或上述的任意组合。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以包括多于一个处理器。每个处理器可以具有相似的构造，或者这些处理器可以具有彼此电连接或电分离的不同构造。作为非限制性例子，至少一个处理器可以包括图11的一个或多个处理器11004和/或图17的广域网(WAN)17310的一个或多个处理器。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one processor. As discussed above, the at least one processor may comprise any kind of electronic device, component or unit having data processing capabilities, including, by way of non-limiting example, a personal computer, a wearable computer, a tablet, a smartphone, a server, Computing systems, cloud computing platforms, communication equipment, digital signal processors (DSP), image signal processors (ISR), microcontrollers, field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), central processing units ( CPA), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Vision Processing Unit (VPU), any other electronic computing device, or any combination of the above. In some implementations, at least one processor may include more than one processor. Each processor may have a similar configuration, or the processors may have different configurations that are electrically connected to or electrically separated from each other. As non-limiting examples, the at least one processor may include one or more processors 11004 of FIG. 11 and/or one or more processors of wide area network (WAN) 17310 of FIG. 17 .
所公开的实施方案可以涉及接收来自无线传输标签中的至少一个无线传输标签的传输。如上文所讨论的，来自无线传输标签的传输可以被至少一个接收器接收。另外地或替代性地，传输可以被电子安全系统的另一个部件接收。在所公开的实施方案中，接收来自至少一个无线传输标签的传输可以包括接收来自一个标签、来自多个标签或来自所有标签的传输。在一些实施方案中，可以响应于由至少一个标签接收到外部刺激而从至少一个无线传输标签接收传输。例如，至少一个无线传输标签可以响应于从激励器(诸如图13和图16的发射器13400a-134000e)接收能量、当被用户设备(诸如用户设备11008)触发时、和/或响应于来自EAS门1110、1112的EAS信号而广播传输。另外地或替代性地，至少一个无线传输标签可以包括内部定时电路，所述内部定时电路被配置成根据所希望的定时序列(诸如在传输之间过去了预定时段之后、在检测到预定事件序列之后、或根据随机化定时序列)触发标签的传输。例如，并且如图10所展示的，示例性无线传输标签1100可以包括晶体振荡器10022(定时电路的例子)，所述晶体振荡器可以向标签的顶层控制器9020提供参考时钟信号以控制由发射器2104进行的传输的定时。另外地或替代性地，标签1100可以包括实时时钟10024(定时电路的另一个例子)，所述实时时钟可以向顶层控制器9020提供慢时钟信号以控制由发射器2104进行的传输的定时。Disclosed embodiments may involve receiving transmissions from at least one of the wireless transmitting tags. As discussed above, transmissions from wireless transmitting tags may be received by at least one receiver. Additionally or alternatively, the transmission may be received by another component of the electronic security system. In the disclosed embodiments, receiving transmissions from at least one wirelessly transmitting tag may include receiving transmissions from one tag, from multiple tags, or from all tags. In some embodiments, a transmission may be received from at least one wirelessly transmitting tag in response to receiving an external stimulus by at least one tag. For example, at least one wireless transmitting tag may be responsive to receiving energy from an actuator (such as transmitters 13400a-134000e of Figures 13 and 16), when triggered by a user device (such as user device 11008), and/or in response to a request from an EAS The EAS signals of gates 1110 and 1112 are broadcast and transmitted. Additionally or alternatively, at least one wireless transmitting tag may include internal timing circuitry configured to detect a predetermined sequence of events based on a desired timing sequence, such as after a predetermined period of time has elapsed between transmissions. Afterwards, or according to a randomized timing sequence) the transmission of the tag is triggered. For example, and as shown in FIG. 10 , the exemplary wireless transmission tag 1100 may include a crystal oscillator 10022 (an example of a timing circuit) that may provide a reference clock signal to the tag's top-level controller 9020 to control the transmission by The timing of the transmission by the processor 2104. Additionally or alternatively, tag 1100 may include a real-time clock 10024 (another example of a timing circuit) that may provide a slow clock signal to top-level controller 9020 to control the timing of transmissions by transmitter 2104.
所公开的实施方案可以包括商店外产品购买。如本文所使用的，商店外产品购买可以指其中购买者购买、租借、租赁或以其他方式从场所获取产品的交易，其中购买者从除了场所之外的位置发起或执行交易。购买者在交易时可以位于任何期望的位置，诸如在家中、商业场所、车辆、学校、大学、政府建筑、宗教建筑或户外。在一些实施方案中，购买者可以经由与场所相关联的网站或应用、通过电子信函(例如，电子邮件、文本消息或消息服务(诸如WhatsApp、Facebook Messenger和Skype))、通过电话、书面地(例如，经由书面订单或信件)、或通过用于从场所远程购买产品的任何其他方法来执行商店外产品购买。Disclosed embodiments may include out-of-store product purchases. As used herein, an off-store product purchase may refer to a transaction in which a purchaser purchases, rents, leases or otherwise obtains a product from a location, where the purchaser initiates or performs the transaction from a location other than the location. The purchaser may be in any desired location at the time of transaction, such as at home, business, vehicle, school, university, government building, religious building or outdoors. In some embodiments, purchasers may purchase via a website or application associated with a venue, by electronic correspondence (e.g., email, text message, or messaging service such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Skype), by phone, in writing ( For example, out-of-store product purchases are made via a written order or correspondence), or by any other method used to purchase products remotely from the premises.
在所公开的实施方案中，商店外产品购买可以包括电子信用卡交易。例如，一旦购买者发起或执行商店外产品购买，执行商店外产品购买的处理器可以被配置成在由购买者持有或购买者已被授权使用的信用卡、借记卡或其他工具上对购买收费，从而完成商店外产品购买。作为另一个例子，购买者在其上执行商店外产品购买的网站或应用可以提示购买者输入她的信用卡信息以完成交易。作为另一个例子，网站或应用可以提示购买者从数字钱包信息中选择信用卡、借记卡或其他工具来完成交易。另外地或替代性地，商店外产品购买可以包括借记购买者所拥有的或以其他方式与购买者相关联的账户。例如，执行商店外产品购买的处理器可以链接到由购买者持有的银行账户或数字钱包账户(例如，PayPal、Venmo、苹果支付、Zelle)，使得处理器可以从账户借记资金以完成商店外产品购买。In disclosed embodiments, out-of-store product purchases may include electronic credit card transactions. For example, once a purchaser initiates or executes an out-of-store product purchase, a processor executing the out-of-store product purchase may be configured to charge the purchase on a credit card, debit card, or other instrument held by the purchaser or that the purchaser has been authorized to use. Charge a fee to complete an out-of-store product purchase. As another example, the website or application on which the purchaser performs an out-of-store product purchase may prompt the purchaser to enter her credit card information to complete the transaction. As another example, a website or app could prompt the buyer to select a credit card, debit card, or other instrument from the digital wallet information to complete the transaction. Additionally or alternatively, an out-of-store product purchase may include debiting an account owned by or otherwise associated with the purchaser. For example, a processor executing an out-of-store product purchase may be linked to a bank account or digital wallet account held by the purchaser (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Zelle) such that the processor can debit funds from the account to complete the store Purchase of external products.
作为例子，图17描绘了用于与银行或数字钱包平台17320通信的广域网(WAN)17310。在一些实施方案中，执行商店外产品购买的处理器(例如，在诸如购买者的家等另一位置17324中的计算机或移动通信设备、或场所17312内的处理器)可以被配置成访问与购买者相关联的银行或数字钱包平台17320，以存取供完成商店外产品购买的资金。例如，处理器可以被配置成访问银行或数字钱包平台17320以发起电子信用卡交易或将资金从购买者的账户转移到与场所相关联的账户。As an example, Figure 17 depicts a wide area network (WAN) 17310 for communicating with a bank or digital wallet platform 17320. In some embodiments, a processor performing an out-of-store product purchase (e.g., a computer or mobile communications device in another location 17324, such as the purchaser's home, or a processor within the venue 17312) may be configured to access the The buyer's associated bank or digital wallet platform 17320 to deposit and withdraw funds to complete out-of-store product purchases. For example, the processor may be configured to access a bank or digital wallet platform 17320 to initiate an electronic credit card transaction or transfer funds from the purchaser's account to an account associated with the venue.
所公开的实施方案可以包括访问商店外产品购买的购买交易记录。例如，一个或多个处理器可以被配置成访问商店外产品购买的购买交易记录。购买(或购买交易)可以包括经济交易，其中一方(卖方)向第二方(买方)提供产品或服务(所购买产品)，并且第二方提供报偿(货币、货币等效资产、另一项产品或服务、或在某个未来时间提供这种报偿的承诺)作为回报。购买(或购买交易)可以在卖方的商业场所(例如，商店)中执行(其中产品或服务立即被提供给买方)，或如通过电话呼叫或互联网连接远程提供给买方(其中产品或服务被承诺在某个未来时间提供给买方(例如，通过递送、或通过买方来到卖方的商业场所地点或来到某个其他商定的位置以接收产品或服务))。在所公开的实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括数据结构中的包含描述特定购买所需信息的条目，所述信息包括卖方、买方、所提供的产品或服务、报偿、向买方提供产品或服务的时间和/或向卖方提供报偿的时间。购买交易记录可以包括与场所为一方的交易(包括产品的购买、销售、转让)相关联的数据，和/或场所与另一个人或实体之间导致产品的所有权或占有权从一方转移到另一方的任何其他交互。在所公开的实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括与所购买产品有关的信息。例如，购买交易记录可以包括至少一个所购买产品的标识。在一些实施方案中，至少一个所购买产品的标识可以包括所购买产品的唯一标识符，诸如序列号、唯一EPC码、库存单位(SKU)、通用产品码(UPC)、条形码、QR码、唯一数据库条目、或至少一个所购买产品的任何其他标识信息。标识可以另外地或替代性地与一组所购买产品相关联。例如，在同一交易中购买的一组所购买产品可以被捆绑在一起并且共享公共ID。另外地或替代性地，至少一个所购买产品的标识可以包括产品的描述性信息，诸如产品的样式、价格、尺寸、重量、颜色、购买历史和/或位置。另外地或替代性地，至少一个所购买产品的标识可以包括商店外产品购买的信息，诸如订单号、时间戳和/或价格信息。Disclosed embodiments may include accessing purchase transaction records for out-of-store product purchases. For example, one or more processors may be configured to access purchase transaction records for out-of-store product purchases. A purchase (or purchase transaction) may include an economic transaction in which one party (the seller) provides a product or service (the product purchased) to a second party (the buyer), and the second party provides compensation (currency, a currency equivalent asset, another products or services, or a promise to provide such compensation at some future time) in return. The purchase (or purchase transaction) may be performed at the seller's business premises (e.g., a store) (where the product or service is immediately provided to the buyer), or remotely, as by telephone call or Internet connection (where the product or service is promised) to the buyer at some future time (for example, by delivery, or by the buyer coming to the seller's business premises or to some other agreed-upon location to receive the product or service)). In the disclosed embodiments, a purchase transaction record may include entries in a data structure containing information necessary to describe a particular purchase, including the seller, the buyer, the product or service offered, the compensation, the product or service provided to the buyer. time and/or time to provide compensation to the seller. Purchase transaction records may include data associated with transactions (including purchases, sales, transfers of products) to which Venue is a party, and/or between Venue and another person or entity resulting in the transfer of title or possession of Products from one party to another. Any other interaction by a party. In disclosed embodiments, purchase transaction records may include information related to purchased products. For example, a purchase transaction record may include an identification of at least one product purchased. In some embodiments, the identification of at least one purchased product may include a unique identifier of the purchased product, such as a serial number, a unique EPC code, a stock keeping unit (SKU), a universal product code (UPC), a barcode, a QR code, a unique Database entry, or any other identifying information of at least one purchased product. A logo may additionally or alternatively be associated with a set of purchased products. For example, a group of purchased products purchased in the same transaction can be bundled together and share a common ID. Additionally or alternatively, the identification of at least one purchased product may include descriptive information about the product, such as the product's style, price, size, weight, color, purchase history, and/or location. Additionally or alternatively, the identification of at least one purchased product may include information about out-of-store product purchases, such as order numbers, timestamps, and/or price information.
另外地或替代性地，购买交易记录可以包括与来自场所的产品的购买者有关的信息。例如，购买交易记录可以包括与至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息。在一些实施方案中，与至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者可以包括所购买产品的所有者或合法持有者、执行商店外产品购买的个人、在其上执行商店外产品购买的设备(例如，计算机或智能电话)的所有者、或被授权从场所拾取所购买产品的个人。如本文所使用的，购买者标识信息可以包括足以标识参与特定购买交易的人(例如，购买者、买方)的信息。例如，购买者标识信息可以包括购买者的唯一标识符，诸如他们的姓名、物理地址、电子邮件地址、生日、顾客号码、忠诚计划号码、账号、信用卡或借记卡信息、唯一密码或通行码、社会保障号码、政府发布的ID信息(例如，驾驶员执照号码)、和/或对购买者唯一的或可以用于将购买者与特定购买交易链接的任何其他信息。另外地或替代性地，购买者标识信息可以包括购买者所拥有或使用的电子设备的信息，诸如电话号码、移动设备标识符、唯一设备标识符(UDID)、安卓ID、国际移动设备标识(IMEI)、SIM卡号码、媒体访问控制(MAC)地址、序列号或对购买者的设备唯一的任何其他信息。在一些实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括个体顾客(包括与至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者)的购买历史。另外地或替代性地，购买者标识信息对于交易可以是唯一的。例如，系统可以向涉及一个或多个物品的特定交易指派唯一标识符。Additionally or alternatively, the purchase transaction record may include information regarding the purchaser of the product from the venue. For example, a purchase transaction record may include purchaser identification information of a purchaser associated with at least one purchased product. In some embodiments, the purchaser associated with at least one purchased product may include the owner or legal holder of the purchased product, the individual who performed the off-store product purchase, the device on which the off-store product purchase was performed ( For example, the owner of a computer or smartphone, or an individual authorized to pick up purchased products from the premises. As used herein, buyer identification information may include information sufficient to identify a person (eg, purchaser, purchaser) involved in a particular purchase transaction. For example, purchaser identification information may include the purchaser's unique identifier, such as their name, physical address, email address, birthday, customer number, loyalty program number, account number, credit or debit card information, unique password or passcode , Social Security number, government-issued ID information (e.g., driver's license number), and/or any other information that is unique to the purchaser or that can be used to link the purchaser to a specific purchase transaction. Additionally or alternatively, buyer identification information may include information about electronic devices owned or used by the buyer, such as phone numbers, mobile device identifiers, unique device identifiers (UDIDs), Android IDs, International Mobile Device Identification ( IMEI), SIM card number, Media Access Control (MAC) address, serial number or any other information unique to the purchaser's device. In some embodiments, purchase transaction records may include purchase history for individual customers, including buyers associated with at least one purchased product. Additionally or alternatively, the buyer identification information may be unique to the transaction. For example, the system may assign a unique identifier to a specific transaction involving one or more items.
另外地或替代性地，购买交易记录可以包括个体交易的信息，包括商店外产品购买交易。例如，购买交易记录可以包括从其购买产品的场所、交易的日期和时间、完成交易的雇员、收银机或自助结账设备号、与交易中的产品相关的数量、类型、样式或其他信息、定价信息(例如，总零售价格、各个产品的价格、税费、促销金额(例如优惠券)、折扣价格和降价金额)、投标类型和金额(例如，现金、信用卡、支票、收费或优惠券)、关于每个投标的特定信息(例如，信用卡号、优惠券标识符和支票号)和/或指派给交易的唯一标识符(诸如订单号)。Additionally or alternatively, purchase transaction records may include information about individual transactions, including out-of-store product purchase transactions. For example, a purchase transaction record may include the location from which the product was purchased, the date and time of the transaction, the employee who completed the transaction, the cash register or self-checkout device number, the quantity, type, style or other information related to the product in the transaction, pricing Information (e.g., total retail price, price of individual products, taxes, promotional amounts (e.g., coupons), discounted prices, and markdown amounts), bid type and amount (e.g., cash, credit card, check, charge, or coupon), Specific information about each bid (e.g., credit card number, coupon identifier, and check number) and/or a unique identifier assigned to the transaction (such as an order number).
在一些实施方案中，购买交易记录可以存储在至少一个数据结构中，所述至少一个数据结构可以由至少一个处理器和其他授权用户访问并且可以被配置成实现从其的查询和信息检索。例如，数据结构可以包括本地数据结构和远程存储部件(例如，基于云的数据结构)中的至少一个。在一些实施方案中，在购买交易记录中包括的数据可以从用于进行给定交易的设备或处理器接收并添加到购买交易记录中。例如，购买交易信息可以从移动通信设备、收银机、台式计算机、膝上型计算机、平板电脑、手持式扫描仪、计算机终端、或配置成执行交易并向购买交易记录传达信息的任何其他设备接收。另外地或替代性地，与交易相关联的信息可以被手动地输入到购买交易记录中。至少一个处理器可以被配置成直接地(例如，经由局域网连接)或间接地(例如，经由广域网连接)访问购买交易记录。在一些实施方案中，购买交易记录可以存储在与关联于无线传输标签的信息(例如，每个无线传输标签的唯一标签ID)相同的数据结构中。在替代实施方案中，购买交易记录和与标签相关联的信息可以存储在不同的数据结构中，所有数据结构可以由至少一个处理器访问。In some embodiments, purchase transaction records may be stored in at least one data structure that may be accessed by at least one processor and other authorized users and may be configured to enable querying and information retrieval therefrom. For example, the data structure may include at least one of a local data structure and a remote storage component (eg, a cloud-based data structure). In some embodiments, data included in the purchase transaction record may be received from the device or processor used to conduct a given transaction and added to the purchase transaction record. For example, purchase transaction information may be received from a mobile communications device, cash register, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, handheld scanner, computer terminal, or any other device configured to perform transactions and communicate information to purchase transaction records . Additionally or alternatively, information associated with the transaction may be manually entered into the purchase transaction record. At least one processor may be configured to access purchase transaction records directly (eg, via a local area network connection) or indirectly (eg, via a wide area network connection). In some embodiments, the purchase transaction record may be stored in the same data structure as the information associated with the wireless transmission tags (eg, a unique tag ID for each wireless transmission tag). In alternative embodiments, purchase transaction records and information associated with tags may be stored in different data structures, all of which may be accessed by at least one processor.
图18是用于对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的示例性无线识别系统18110的网络图。在一些实现方式中，系统18110可以建立在如本文定义的至少一个场所内或以其他方式与其相关联。系统18110可以包括使得能够在系统的元件(诸如一个或多个处理器18114、移动通信设备18116、一个或多个接收器18118、警报机构18120、数据结构18122和购买交易记录18124)之间交换数据和/或信息的网络18112。网络18112可以包括被配置用于交换数据的任何类型的有线和/或无线计算机网络布置。作为非限制性例子，网络18112可以包括至少一个场所中的本地Wi-Fi连接、有线或无线局域网(LAN)连接、或广域网(WAN)连接。Figure 18 is a network diagram of an exemplary wireless identification system 18110 for in-store pickup of previously purchased products. In some implementations, system 18110 may be established within or otherwise associated with at least one location as defined herein. System 18110 may include components that enable the exchange of data between elements of the system, such as one or more processors 18114, mobile communication devices 18116, one or more receivers 18118, alert mechanisms 18120, data structures 18122, and purchase transaction records 18124 and/or information network 18112. Network 18112 may include any type of wired and/or wireless computer network arrangement configured for exchanging data. As non-limiting examples, network 18112 may include a local Wi-Fi connection, a wired or wireless local area network (LAN) connection, or a wide area network (WAN) connection in at least one location.
系统18110可以包括至少一个警报机构18120，所述至少一个警报机构被配置成在例如检测到对场所的未授权入侵、企图抢劫或盗窃或其他损失时发起警报。警报机构18120可以包括可听警告(诸如扬声器或警笛)、视觉警告(诸如灯或图形显示器)、触觉警告、数字消息、或传达期望信息的任何其他传输。在一些实施方案中，警报机构18120可以包括场所内的固定基础设施(诸如警报器1114，其可以包括扬声器、灯和/或图形显示器)，其可以包括被布置在场所周围的战略位置处的部件，诸如在入口和/或出口处、在结账柜台或自助结账服务机附近、在储存区域中、或紧挨着试衣间。System 18110 may include at least one alarm mechanism 18120 configured to initiate an alarm upon detection of, for example, unauthorized intrusion into the premises, attempted robbery or theft, or other loss. Alert mechanism 18120 may include an audible warning (such as a speaker or siren), a visual warning (such as a light or graphic display), a tactile warning, a digital message, or any other transmission that conveys the desired information. In some embodiments, alarm mechanism 18120 may include fixed infrastructure within the venue (such as sirens 1114 , which may include speakers, lights, and/or graphic displays), which may include components placed at strategic locations around the venue , such as at entrances and/or exits, near checkout counters or self-checkout kiosks, in storage areas, or immediately adjacent to fitting rooms.
系统18110可以包括被配置用于与网络18112有线和/或无线通信的至少一个移动通信设备18116。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备18116可以包括用户设备，诸如蜂窝电话、智能电话、平板电脑、台式机、膝上型计算机、PDA、手持式扫描仪、可穿戴设备、或具有用于控制设备18116的操作的计算机程序(应用的例子)的其他移动计算设备。例如，移动通信设备18116可以包括用户设备11008。在一些实施方案中，设备18116可以被配置成接收用户输入并且将对应的信号传输到网络18112。例如，用户输入可以经由用户界面(例如，触摸屏、小键盘或麦克风)、通过用设备18116的相机收集至少一个图像(例如，捕获无线传输标签1100或与产品或装有产品的包装相关联的条形码或QR码的图像)、通过将用户输入有线或无线传输到设备18116、或通过将用户输入传达给设备18116的任何其他装置来接收。另外地或替代性地，设备18116可以包括至少一个用户界面，所述至少一个用户界面被配置成向用户输出通知信号(诸如可听信号、视觉信号、触觉信号或另一感觉信号)；用户界面的例子可以包括显示屏或扬声器。System 18110 may include at least one mobile communications device 18116 configured for wired and/or wireless communication with network 18112 . In some embodiments, mobile communication device 18116 may include a user device such as a cellular phone, smartphone, tablet, desktop, laptop, PDA, handheld scanner, wearable device, or device with a device for controlling 18116 Computer programs for the operation of other mobile computing devices (examples of applications). For example, mobile communication device 18116 may include user device 11008. In some implementations, device 18116 may be configured to receive user input and transmit corresponding signals to network 18112. For example, user input may be via a user interface (e.g., a touch screen, a keypad, or a microphone), by collecting at least one image with a camera of device 18116 (e.g., capturing a wireless transmission tag 1100 or a barcode associated with the product or the packaging containing the product). or an image of a QR code), by wired or wireless transmission of user input to device 18116 , or by any other means of communicating user input to device 18116 . Additionally or alternatively, device 18116 may include at least one user interface configured to output a notification signal to a user (such as an audible signal, a visual signal, a tactile signal, or another sensory signal); user interface Examples could include a display or speakers.
无线识别系统18110可以包括一个或多个接收器18118，所述一个或多个接收器被配置成从无线标签1100接收信号的广播并且与网络18112交换数据和/或信息。接收器18118可以被配置成从标签1100接收一个或多个识别信号13102，并且将接收到的识别信号的数据(例如，由识别信号13102指定的标签ID和/或信号的强度或功率水平)传输到网络18112。在一些实施方案中，接收器18118还可以被配置为用于递送将由无线标签1100收集和存储的能量18126的激励器。然而，普通技术人员将理解，示例性无线识别系统18110可以包括接收器/激励器设备(诸如设备1124)、单独的接收器设备和激励器设备、或其任何期望的组合。Wireless identification system 18110 may include one or more receivers 18118 configured to receive broadcasts of signals from wireless tags 1100 and exchange data and/or information with network 18112 . Receiver 18118 may be configured to receive one or more identification signals 13102 from tag 1100 and transmit data for the received identification signals (e.g., the tag ID specified by identification signal 13102 and/or the strength or power level of the signal) to network 18112. In some embodiments, the receiver 18118 may also be configured as an exciter for delivering energy 18126 to be collected and stored by the wireless tag 1100. However, one of ordinary skill will appreciate that the example wireless identification system 18110 may include a receiver/exciter device (such as device 1124), separate receiver devices and exciter devices, or any desired combination thereof.
无线识别系统18110可以包括至少一个数据结构18122，所述至少一个数据结构用于存储场所的库存信息。在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个数据结构18122可以包括至少一个数据库，诸如用于存储与特定设施或商店有关的本地信息的本地数据库、地区数据库或全局数据库。至少一个数据结构18122可以包含数据，所述数据包括但不限于由场所提供的产品的库存、特定产品的产品ID、特定产品的信息(例如，产品样式、尺寸、颜色、材料、位置、制造和/或装运历史和/或所有权信息)、特定产品的购买状态(例如，特定产品是否已被购买、从场所拾取、或被指定用于退回到场所)、无线传输标签1100的信息、无线传输标签1100的标签ID、特定标签与特定产品之间的关联、标签1100的加密密钥和/或特定产品的购买者的信息。存储在至少一个数据结构18122中的信息可以由一个或多个处理器18114直接或间接地通过网络18112访问。Wireless identification system 18110 may include at least one data structure 18122 for storing inventory information for a venue. In the disclosed embodiments, at least one data structure 18122 may include at least one database, such as a local database, a regional database, or a global database for storing local information related to a particular facility or store. At least one data structure 18122 may contain data including, but not limited to, inventory of products offered by the venue, product IDs for specific products, product-specific information (e.g., product style, size, color, material, location, manufacturing, and and/or shipping history and/or ownership information), the purchase status of a particular product (e.g., whether a particular product has been purchased, picked up from the facility, or designated for return to the facility), information from the wireless transmission tag 1100, the wireless transmission tag The tag ID of 1100, the association between a particular tag and a particular product, the encryption key of tag 1100, and/or information about the purchaser of the particular product. Information stored in at least one data structure 18122 may be accessed by one or more processors 18114 directly or indirectly through the network 18112 .
无线识别系统18110可以包括包含购买交易记录18124的数据结构。如上文所讨论的，购买交易记录18124可以包括与场所为一方的交易(包括产品的购买、销售、转让)的数据，和/或场所与另一个人或实体之间导致产品的所有权或占有权从一方转移到另一方的任何其他交互。购买交易记录18124可以包括与所购买产品有关的信息(例如，所购买产品的标识)、与来自场所的产品的购买者有关的信息(例如，与所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息)和/或个人交易的信息。在所公开的实施方案中，包含购买交易记录18124的数据结构可以包括至少一个数据库，诸如用于存储与特定设施或商店有关的本地信息的本地数据库、地区数据库或全局数据库。包含在购买交易记录18124中的信息可以由一个或多个处理器18114直接或间接地通过网络18112访问。在一些实施方案中，购买交易记录18124可以被存储在至少一个数据结构18122中。在替代实施方案中，购买交易记录18124可以被存储在与至少一个数据结构18122分开的数据结构中。Wireless identification system 18110 may include a data structure containing purchase transaction records 18124. As discussed above, purchase transaction records 18124 may include data on transactions (including purchases, sales, transfers of products) with which the Venue is a party, and/or between the Venue and another person or entity resulting in ownership or possession of the Product. Any other interaction that is transferred from one party to another. Purchase transaction record 18124 may include information related to the purchased product (e.g., an identification of the purchased product), information related to the purchaser of the product from the venue (e.g., a purchaser identification of the purchaser associated with the purchased product) information) and/or personal transaction information. In the disclosed embodiments, the data structure containing purchase transaction records 18124 may include at least one database, such as a local database, a regional database, or a global database for storing local information related to a particular facility or store. The information contained in the purchase transaction record 18124 may be accessed by one or more processors 18114 directly or indirectly through the network 18112 . In some implementations, purchase transaction records 18124 may be stored in at least one data structure 18122. In alternative embodiments, purchase transaction record 18124 may be stored in a separate data structure from at least one data structure 18122 .
无线识别系统18110可以包括至少一个处理器18114，所述至少一个处理器被配置成接收、存储和处理来自系统18110的部件的信息。例如，处理器18114可以(经由接收器18118)接收和处理与无线识别标签1100有关的信息、从移动通信设备18116和其他处理设备接收数据和向其传输数据、控制警报机构18120发起警报的能力、以及访问、查找、读取、添加、改变、删除和共享包含在至少一个数据结构18122和购买交易记录18124中的数据。Wireless identification system 18110 may include at least one processor 18114 configured to receive, store, and process information from components of system 18110. For example, processor 18114 may receive and process information related to wireless identification tag 1100 (via receiver 18118), receive and transmit data to mobile communications device 18116 and other processing devices, control the ability of alarm mechanism 18120 to initiate alarms, and access, find, read, add, change, delete, and share data contained in at least one data structure 18122 and purchase transaction record 18124.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成接收特定标签的唯一标签ID。标签ID可以包括无线传输标签中的给定一个无线传输标签的信息，所述信息唯一地向用户和/或向其他设备或设备部件标识标签，使得可以将特定标签与其他无线传输标签区分开。在一些实施方案中，标签ID对于特定标签可以是唯一的，并且该特定标签可以仅具有一个唯一标签ID。替代性地，同一个标签可以有多个唯一标签ID。唯一标签ID的例子可以包括序列号、零件号、条形码、UUID、EPC或可以向用户和/或其他设备唯一地标识对应标签的其他形式的数据。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving a unique tag ID for a particular one of the wireless transmission tags. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive a unique tag ID for a particular tag. The tag ID may include information for a given one of the wireless transmission tags that uniquely identifies the tag to a user and/or to other devices or device components such that the particular tag can be distinguished from other wireless transmission tags. In some embodiments, a tag ID may be unique to a particular tag, and that particular tag may have only one unique tag ID. Alternatively, the same tag can have multiple unique tag IDs. Examples of unique tag IDs may include serial numbers, part numbers, barcodes, UUIDs, EPCs, or other forms of data that can uniquely identify the corresponding tag to users and/or other devices.
在所公开的实施方案中，接收到的标签ID可以是与库存中的至少一个特定产品相关联的特定标签的唯一标签ID。也就是说，唯一标签ID可以与无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签相关联，所述特定一个无线传输标签可以进而与场所库存中的特定产品相关联。如本文所使用的，库存可以包括列表、表格、数据库、电子表格或包含由场所提供或以其他方式由场所拥有或占有的产品(例如，提供用于销售、交换、物物交换或赠送的产品)的信息的任何其他数据结构。库存可以包括特定产品的标识符，诸如库存单位(SKU)、通用产品码(UPC)或序列号。例如，在零售商店中，库存可以包括展示以供销售的、储存在储存区域中的、或在顾客手中但尚未购买的所有产品。在一些实施方案中，库存可能不包括由顾客退回或由工作人员识别的损坏物品、或者已经购买但等待送货或被拾取的物品。在一些实施方案中，库存还可以包括与库存中的特定产品相关联的无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签的标签ID。In the disclosed embodiments, the received tag ID may be a unique tag ID for a particular tag associated with at least one particular product in the inventory. That is, the unique tag ID may be associated with a specific one of the wireless transmission tags, which may in turn be associated with a specific product in the venue's inventory. As used herein, inventory may include a list, table, database, spreadsheet, or product containing products provided by the venue or otherwise owned or possessed by the venue (e.g., products offered for sale, exchange, barter, or gift ) information. Inventory may include identifiers for specific products, such as stock keeping units (SKUs), universal product codes (UPC), or serial numbers. For example, in a retail store, inventory may include all products displayed for sale, stored in storage areas, or in the hands of customers but not yet purchased. In some embodiments, inventory may not include damaged items returned by customers or identified by staff, or items that have been purchased but are awaiting delivery or pickup. In some embodiments, the inventory may also include a tag ID for a particular one of the wireless transmission tags associated with a particular product in the inventory.
在所公开的实施方案中，与接收到的标签ID相关联的至少一个特定产品可以对应于购买交易记录中的至少一个所购买产品。一些实施方案可以包括在场所的库存中找到所购买产品并且从库存中检索与所购买产品相关联的唯一标签ID；在这样的实施方案中，(在购买交易记录中包括的)所购买产品可以是与场所的库存中的特定产品相同的物品。这些实施方案可以包括独一无二产品或定制产品的销售，对于这些产品来说购买者接收她已支付的确切物品是重要的。例如，至少一个处理器可以从购买交易记录获得所购买产品的标识，针对所购买产品搜索场所的库存(例如，执行对所购买产品的SKU、UPC或序列号的搜索)，并且基于搜索获得所购买产品的信息，所述信息包括相关联的无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one specific product associated with the received tag ID may correspond to at least one purchased product in the purchase transaction record. Some embodiments may include locating the purchased product in the venue's inventory and retrieving the unique tag ID associated with the purchased product from the inventory; in such embodiments, the purchased product (included in the purchase transaction record) may Is the same item as a specific product in the venue's inventory. These embodiments may include the sale of one-of-a-kind products or customized products for which it is important for the buyer to receive the exact item for which she paid. For example, at least one processor may obtain an identification of the purchased product from the purchase transaction record, search the location's inventory for the purchased product (e.g., perform a search for the SKU, UPC, or serial number of the purchased product), and obtain the purchased product based on the search. Information about purchased products, including the unique tag ID of the associated wireless transmission tag.
替代实施方案可以包括在场所的库存中找到与购买交易记录中的所购买产品相似或相同的特定产品。当在库存中找到了特定产品时，还可以接收与特定产品相关联的无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。例如，至少一个处理器可以从购买交易记录获得所购买产品的标识，确定所购买产品的特性(例如，产品的样式、尺寸、颜色和价格)，并且在场所的库存中搜索具有与所购买产品相同特性的特定产品。至少一个处理器然后可以获得具有相同特性的特定产品的信息，所述信息包括与特定产品相关联的无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。Alternative embodiments may include locating a specific product in the venue's inventory that is similar or identical to the purchased product in the purchase transaction record. When a specific product is found in inventory, it is also possible to receive the unique tag ID of the wirelessly transmitted tag associated with the specific product. For example, at least one processor may obtain an identification of the purchased product from the purchase transaction record, determine the characteristics of the purchased product (e.g., the style, size, color, and price of the product), and search the venue's inventory for information related to the purchased product. Specific products with the same characteristics. At least one processor can then obtain information about specific products having the same characteristics, the information including the unique tag ID of the wireless transmission tag associated with the specific product.
所公开的实施方案可以包括将所述至少一个特定产品指派给与所述购买交易相关联的记录。在一些实施方案中，与购买交易相关联的记录可以包括与商店外产品购买有关的购买交易记录中的数据(其可以包括所购买产品的标识和购买者标识信息，如上文所讨论的)。在一些实施方案中，将至少一个特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录可以包括更新购买交易记录以包括所购买产品与库存中的对应特定产品之间的关联。例如，所述关联可以将特定产品指定为在商店外产品购买中运送的货品，并且因此也可以将特定产品指定为属于购买者。另外地或替代性地，将至少一个特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录可以包括更新购买交易记录以包括库存中的相关联特定产品的信息，诸如特定产品的标识符(例如，库存单位(SKU)、通用产品码(UPC)或序列号)和与特定产品相关联的无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。Disclosed embodiments may include assigning the at least one specific product to a record associated with the purchase transaction. In some embodiments, records associated with purchase transactions may include data from purchase transaction records related to out-of-store product purchases (which may include identification of the purchased product and buyer identification information, as discussed above). In some embodiments, assigning at least one specific product to a record associated with a purchase transaction may include updating the purchase transaction record to include an association between the purchased product and the corresponding specific product in inventory. For example, the association may designate a particular product as being shipped in an out-of-store product purchase, and thus may also designate the particular product as belonging to the purchaser. Additionally or alternatively, assigning at least one specific product to a record associated with a purchase transaction may include updating the purchase transaction record to include information associated with the specific product in inventory, such as an identifier of the specific product (e.g., stock keeping unit (SKU), Universal Product Code (UPC) or serial number) and the unique tag ID of the wireless transmission tag associated with a specific product.
在图18所示的例子中，处理器18114可以从购买交易记录18124接收所购买产品的标识。处理器18114可以在数据结构18122中执行搜索以在场所的库存中找到所购买产品。替代性地，处理器18114可以在数据结构18122中执行搜索以在库存中找到与所购买产品相似或相同的特定产品。由于数据结构18122还可以包含各个产品与无线传输标签1100之间的关联，处理器18114还可以接收与特定产品相关联的标签1100的唯一标签ID。在一些实施方案中，处理器18114可以通过更新购买交易记录18124以包括所购买产品与库存中的特定产品之间的关联来将特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录。另外地或替代性地，处理器18114可以通过更新购买交易记录18124以将相关联的特定产品的信息包括在库存中来将特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录，所述信息诸如是与特定产品相关联的标签1100的唯一标签ID。In the example shown in FIG. 18 , the processor 18114 may receive an identification of the purchased product from the purchase transaction record 18124 . Processor 18114 may perform a search in data structure 18122 to find the purchased product in the venue's inventory. Alternatively, processor 18114 may perform a search in data structure 18122 to find a specific product in inventory that is similar or identical to the purchased product. Because data structure 18122 may also contain associations between individual products and wireless transmission tags 1100, processor 18114 may also receive unique tag IDs for tags 1100 associated with specific products. In some embodiments, the processor 18114 may assign a specific product to a record associated with a purchase transaction by updating the purchase transaction record 18124 to include an association between the purchased product and the specific product in inventory. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 18114 may assign a particular product to a record associated with a purchase transaction by updating the purchase transaction record 18124 to include the associated product-specific information in the inventory, such as with The unique tag ID of the tag 1100 associated with a specific product.
所公开的实施方案可以包括从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收通知。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以包括被配置成接收和传输有线和/或无线通信信号的任何可移动或不固定的设备、结构、或设备的组合。移动通信设备的例子可以包括蜂窝电话、智能电话、平板电脑、个人计算机、PDA、智能眼镜、手持式扫描仪、可穿戴设备、前述中的任何组合或被配置用于发送和/或接收数据的任何其他移动电子设备。作为非限制性例子，图18展示了其中移动通信设备18116(例如，智能电话)可以被配置用于与网络18112通信的实施方案。如本文所使用的，与购买者“相关联”的移动通信设备可以包括：购买者所拥有或以其他方式占有的设备；被授权从场所拾取所购买产品的个人所拥有或以其他方式占有的设备；被授权代表购买者接收和传输通信的设备；经由购买者的电话号码、电子邮件地址、屏幕名称或其他唯一通信手段进行通信的设备；或登录到购买者的账户的设备。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving notifications from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. In some embodiments, a mobile communications device may include any movable or stationary device, structure, or combination of devices configured to receive and transmit wired and/or wireless communications signals. Examples of mobile communication devices may include cellular phones, smartphones, tablets, personal computers, PDAs, smart glasses, handheld scanners, wearable devices, any combination of the foregoing, or devices configured for sending and/or receiving data. Any other mobile electronic device. As a non-limiting example, FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment in which a mobile communications device 18116 (eg, a smartphone) may be configured to communicate with a network 18112. As used herein, a mobile communications device "associated with" a purchaser may include: a device owned or otherwise in the possession of the purchaser; a device owned or otherwise in the possession of a person authorized to pick up the purchased product from the premises Device; a device authorized to receive and transmit communications on behalf of the purchaser; a device that communicates via the purchaser's phone number, email address, screen name, or other unique means of communication; or a device that is logged into the purchaser's account.
在所公开的实施方案中，接收到的通知可以包括至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知。例如，一旦从移动通信设备接收到通知，库存中对应于所购买产品的特定产品可以被授权进行拾取(例如，被授权离开场所)。再次参考图18所示的例子，移动通信设备18116可以传输(并且在一些实施方案中，可以生成)所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知。设备18116可以直接地或经由网络18112将通知传输到处理器18114。In disclosed embodiments, notifications received may include notification that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the venue. For example, upon receipt of a notification from the mobile communications device, a specific product in inventory corresponding to the purchased product may be authorized for pickup (eg, authorized to leave the premises). Referring again to the example shown in Figure 18, the mobile communication device 18116 can transmit (and in some embodiments, can generate) a notification that the purchased product is being picked up at the venue. Device 18116 may transmit the notification to processor 18114 directly or via network 18112.
在一些实施方案中，所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以包括来自移动通信设备的电子信函，诸如电子邮件、电话呼叫、文本消息或经由消息服务的消息。另外地或替代性地，移动通信设备可以用于访问与场所相关联的网站或应用；所述网站或应用可以包括可以用于生成通知的用户提示或选择选项(例如，按钮、下拉菜单或文本字段)。In some embodiments, the notification that the purchased product is being picked up may include an electronic correspondence from the mobile communication device, such as an email, a phone call, a text message, or a message via a messaging service. Additionally or alternatively, the mobile communication device may be used to access a website or application associated with the venue; the website or application may include user prompts or selection options (e.g., buttons, drop-down menus, or text) that may be used to generate notifications. field).
另外地或替代性地，所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以基于移动通信设备与特定产品、特定产品的无线传输标签、或装有特定产品的包装中的至少一个之间的交互来生成(在下文详细讨论)。例如，当购买者到达场所以拾取特定产品时，她可以使用移动通信设备的相机来扫描特定产品的无线传输标签或装有特定产品的包装上的标签或标牌。基于扫描，移动通信设备可以生成通知并且将通知传输到至少一个处理器。Additionally or alternatively, the notification that the purchased product is being picked up may be generated based on interaction between the mobile communications device and at least one of the specific product, a wireless transmission tag for the specific product, or a package containing the specific product (in discussed in detail below). For example, when a buyer arrives at a venue to pick up a specific product, she can use the mobile communication device's camera to scan the wireless transmission tag of the specific product or the label or placard on the package containing the specific product. Based on the scan, the mobile communications device may generate and transmit the notification to at least one processor.
另外地或替代性地，所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以基于移动通信设备的位置信息来生成。例如，移动通信设备或另一个处理器可以使用设备的位置信息(例如，GPS数据)来确定设备的位置是否对应于场所或设备是否在场所或特定产品的预定距离内。当基于移动通信设备的位置信息确定了设备在场所内或者在距场所或特定产品的预定距离内时，可以生成通知。作为另一个例子，电子安全系统可以包括至少一个接收器或检测器，所述至少一个接收器或检测器被配置成检测移动通信设备并确定设备是否位于场所内。在所公开的实施方案中，当确定了移动通信设备位于场所内时，可以生成通知。Additionally or alternatively, notification that purchased products are being picked up may be generated based on location information of the mobile communications device. For example, the mobile communications device or another processor may use the device's location information (eg, GPS data) to determine whether the device's location corresponds to a venue or whether the device is within a predetermined distance of a venue or a particular product. Notifications may be generated when it is determined based on the location information of the mobile communication device that the device is within the venue or within a predetermined distance from the venue or a specific product. As another example, an electronic security system may include at least one receiver or detector configured to detect a mobile communications device and determine whether the device is located within the premises. In disclosed embodiments, a notification may be generated when a mobile communications device is determined to be within the premises.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以包括指示与购买者相关联的移动通信设备位于场所内的位置标识信息。例如，位置标识信息可以包括GPS数据、设备跟踪程序(例如，苹果的“查找我的iPhone”、谷歌的“查找我的设备”以及三星的“查找我的移动产品”)的数据、或指示移动通信设备的位置的其他数据。在一些实施方案中，所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以包括移动通信设备位于场所内的通信。另外地或替代性地，所购买产品正在被拾取的通知可以包括对设备在场所内的位置的指定。例如，所述通知可以包括指定设备的位置或者在设备位置附近的场所内的参考位置的名称(例如，移动通信设备在试衣间、拾取区域或者场所入口附近的指定)的地图。In disclosed embodiments, the notification that at least one purchased product is being picked up may include location identification information indicating that the mobile communications device associated with the purchaser is located within the venue. For example, location identification information may include GPS data, data from device tracking programs (e.g., Apple's Find My iPhone, Google's Find My Device, and Samsung's Find My Mobile products), or data indicating movement Other data about the location of the communications device. In some embodiments, notification that purchased products are being picked up may include communication that the mobile communications device is located within the premises. Additionally or alternatively, the notification that the purchased product is being picked up may include a designation of the location of the device within the venue. For example, the notification may include a map specifying the location of the device or the name of a reference location within a venue near the location of the device (eg, designation of the mobile communications device near a fitting room, pickup area, or entrance to the venue).
在所公开的实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括在场所处的拾取等待时间期间装有至少一个特定产品的包装的标识信息。如本文所使用的，包装可以指容器、覆盖物或者部分或完全地包围特定产品的其他结构。例如，装有至少一个特定产品的包装可以包括盒子、袋子、杯子、瓶子或其他器皿、包装纸或塑料、气泡包装、封套、板条箱、容器(例如，装运容器)、桶、罐、壶或部分地或完全地袋子围特定产品的任何其他结构。在所公开的实施方案中，场所的雇员或另一个人可以从与一个或多个所购买产品对应的库存中取回一个或多个特定产品，将所述一个或多个特定产品打包在包装内，并且准备要从场所拾取的包装。一旦准备好，在场所的拾取等待时间期间，包装就可以被放置在储存区域或指定的拾取区域中，使得包装可以被购买者或被授权拾取包装的其他人取回。如本文所使用的，在场所的拾取等待时间可以包括包装准备好被拾取的时间与包装被拾取的时间之间的时间段。替代性地，在场所的拾取等待时间可以包括包装被授权进行拾取的时间与包装被拾取的时间之间的时间段。替代性地，拾取等待时间还可以包括一天内的一时间段，在所述时间段期间，包装被放置在拾取区域中并等待被拾取。In the disclosed embodiments, the purchase transaction record may include identification information of the package containing at least one particular product during the pickup wait time at the location. As used herein, packaging may refer to a container, covering, or other structure that partially or completely surrounds a particular product. For example, packaging containing at least one particular product may include a box, bag, cup, bottle or other vessel, wrapper or plastic, bubble wrap, envelope, crate, container (e.g., shipping container), bucket, can, jug or any other structure that partially or completely encloses a particular product. In the disclosed embodiments, a location employee or another person may retrieve one or more specific products from inventory corresponding to one or more purchased products, packaging the one or more specific products in a package inside and prepare the packaging for pickup from the premises. Once prepared, the packaging can be placed in a storage area or designated pickup area during the venue's pick-up wait time so that the packaging can be retrieved by the purchaser or another person authorized to pick up the packaging. As used herein, pick-up wait time at a location may include the time period between the time a package is ready to be picked up and the time the package is picked up. Alternatively, the pick-up wait time at a location may include the time period between the time a package is authorized for pickup and the time the package is picked up. Alternatively, the pick-up wait time may also include a time period within a day during which packages are placed in the pick-up area and wait to be picked up.
作为非限制性例子，图16描绘了具有货架13240的场所，所述货架被指定为用于所购买产品(包括装有所购买产品的包装16012)的拾取区域。先前完成了商店外产品购买的购买者1104可以进入场所，识别存放她所购买的一个或多个产品的货架13240上的包装16012，并且带着她的包装16012离开场所。有利地，这种配置可以允许购买者节省时间(因为不需要她搜寻商店以获得她期望的产品或者在结账队伍中等待)并且还使与商店员工和其他人的交互最小化。As a non-limiting example, Figure 16 depicts a location having shelves 13240 designated as pickup areas for purchased products, including packages 16012 containing purchased products. A purchaser 1104 who has previously completed an out-of-store product purchase may enter the venue, identify the packaging 16012 on the shelf 13240 housing the product or products she purchased, and leave the venue with her packaging 16012. Advantageously, this configuration may allow the purchaser to save time (since she is not required to search the store for her desired product or wait in a checkout line) and also minimize interaction with store employees and others.
为了区分单独的包装，每个包装可以包括可被包括在购买交易记录中的标识信息。因此，购买者可以访问购买交易记录以获得装有她所购买产品的包装的标识信息。包装的标识信息可以被自动添加到购买交易记录，诸如通过电子安全系统的至少一个处理器、通过与购买者相关联的移动通信设备、通过用于执行商店外产品购买的设备、通过与场所相关联的设备(例如，手持式扫描仪、收银台或收银机)、或通过另一个处理器或程序。另外地或替代性地，包装的标识信息可以被手动地添加到购买交易记录，诸如通过购买者或通过将所购买产品打包在包装内或将包装放置在场所内的拾取区域处的个人。To distinguish individual packages, each package may include identifying information that may be included in the purchase transaction record. Therefore, a purchaser can access the purchase transaction record to obtain identification information of the package containing the product she purchased. The identification information of the package may be automatically added to the purchase transaction record, such as by at least one processor of the electronic security system, by a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser, by a device used to perform an out-of-store product purchase, by association with the venue connected device (e.g., handheld scanner, checkout counter, or cash register), or through another processor or program. Additionally or alternatively, the packaging's identification information may be manually added to the purchase transaction record, such as by the purchaser or by an individual who packaged the purchased product within the packaging or placed the packaging at a pick-up area within the venue.
在一些实施方案中，包装的标识信息可以用文本、图像、或机器可读的印刷码来指示，所述文本、图像、或机器可读的印刷码可以包括在包装上、包括在附接到包装上或以其他方式与包装相关联的标签或标牌上、包括在包装内部的物品上、或可以另外以标识包装的方式提供。例如，包装的标识信息可以包括购买者的标识符(例如，购买者的姓名或ID)、所购买产品的标识符(例如，产品的描述、产品的SKU、UPC、序列号或条形码、或与产品相关联的无线传输标签的标签ID)、或产品的购买交易的标识符(例如，订单号、指派给交易的条形码、或包装的编号或ID)。In some embodiments, the identification information of the package may be indicated by text, images, or machine-readable printed codes, which may be included on the package, included on a device attached to the A label or label on or otherwise associated with the package, on an item included within the package, or may otherwise be provided to identify the package. For example, the identification information of the package may include an identifier of the purchaser (e.g., the purchaser's name or ID), an identifier of the product purchased (e.g., a description of the product, the product's SKU, UPC, serial number or barcode, or information related to the product). The tag ID of the wireless transmission tag associated with the product), or an identifier of the purchase transaction for the product (e.g., an order number, a barcode assigned to the transaction, or a package number or ID).
另外地或替代性地，包装的标识信息可以包括由移动通信设备可读的信息。例如，包装的标识信息可以包括以诸如逗号分隔变量(CSV)、资源描述框架(RDF)、JavaScript对象符号(JSON)、可扩展标记语言(XML)、条形码、QR码或其他机器可读格式等机器可读格式组织的信息。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以从另一个设备或网络接收包装的标识信息。另外地或替代性地，移动通信设备可以通过扫描条形码或QR码(其可以被提供在例如包装上、包装的标签或标牌上、或装在包装中的特定产品上)来接收包装的标识信息。在一些实施方案中，包装可以与附接到包装上或放置在包装内部的无线传输标签相关联，所述无线传输标签在打包时或放置在拾取区域中时、或在远程购买交易期间或在拾取包装之前的任何其他时间已经与包装相关联。然后，移动通信设备可以扫描无线传输标签，接收其标签ID传输(直接地或者通过接收器，诸如图16中的接收器11300a-h)，并且使用标签ID作为唯一标识特定包装的信息。在一些实施方案中，来自移动通信设备的至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知可以包括装有至少一个特定产品的包装的标识信息。例如，在接收到包装的标识信息之后，移动通信设备可以将通知(其可以包括包装的标识信息)传输到至少一个处理器。在一些实现方式中，这可以使得处理器能够识别通知所提及的包装。Additionally or alternatively, the packaging identification information may include information readable by the mobile communications device. For example, the packaged identification information may include formats such as Comma Separated Variables (CSV), Resource Description Framework (RDF), JavaScript Object Notation (JSON), Extensible Markup Language (XML), barcodes, QR codes, or other machine-readable formats. Information organized in a machine-readable format. In some embodiments, a mobile communications device may receive packaged identification information from another device or network. Additionally or alternatively, the mobile communications device may receive the identification information of the package by scanning a bar code or QR code (which may be provided, for example, on the package, on a label or placard of the package, or on a specific product contained in the package) . In some embodiments, a package may be associated with a wireless transmitting tag attached to or placed inside the package when packaged or placed in a pick-up area, or during a remote purchase transaction or during Any other time before picking up a package has been associated with the package. The mobile communications device can then scan the wirelessly transmitted tag, receive its tag ID transmission (either directly or through a receiver, such as receivers 11300a-h in Figure 16), and use the tag ID as information that uniquely identifies a particular package. In some embodiments, the notification from the mobile communication device that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the venue may include identification information of the package containing at least one particular product. For example, upon receiving the identification information of the package, the mobile communications device may transmit a notification (which may include the identification information of the package) to the at least one processor. In some implementations, this may enable the processor to identify the packaging mentioned by the notification.
图19展示了包装16012的例子，所述包装被配置成装有从场所购买的产品。包装16012可以包括标识信息，诸如购买者的印刷标识符19012以及可以被包括在购买交易记录18124中的机器可读码19014(例如，QR码)。与购买者相关联的移动通信设备18116可以被配置成读取包装标识信息；例如，设备18116可以被配置成捕获机器可读码19014的图像并从图像中获得包装标识信息。移动通信设备18116可以将通知信号19016传输到网络18112和与其连接的处理器(例如，处理器18114)。在一些实施方案中，通知信号19016可以包括包装16012的标识信息中的一些或全部，并且可以指示至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取。Figure 19 shows an example of a package 16012 configured to contain products purchased from a venue. Packaging 16012 may include identifying information, such as the purchaser's printed identifier 19012 and a machine-readable code 19014 (eg, a QR code) that may be included in the purchase transaction record 18124 . A mobile communications device 18116 associated with the purchaser may be configured to read the packaging identification information; for example, the device 18116 may be configured to capture an image of the machine-readable code 19014 and obtain the packaging identification information from the image. Mobile communications device 18116 may transmit notification signal 19016 to network 18112 and a processor coupled thereto (eg, processor 18114). In some embodiments, notification signal 19016 may include some or all of the identification information of package 16012 and may indicate that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the location.
在一些实施方案中，装有所购买产品的包装可以具有相关联的无线传输标签。例如，在场所处，一个无线传输标签可以被指派给一个包装、或以其他方式与一个包装配对或相关。例如，无线传输标签与对应的包装之间的关联可以存储在数据结构中。另外地或替代性地，无线传输标签可以通过粘合、一个或多个机械连接器(例如，夹子或U形钉)、捆扎、裹绕、紧固或任何其他类型的物理连接来附接到对应的包装上。另外地或替代性地，无线传输标签可以在无物理附接的情况下结合到包装中，诸如当标签连同包装所包含的产品一起被自由地放置在包装内部时，或者当标签被连接到其上或其内可以放置包装的货架、箱、抽屉或其他固定装置时。与包装相关联的无线传输标签可以具有与由场所提供的产品相关联的无线传输标签相同的类型或者不同的类型。由于在场所处的无线传输标签与包装之间的关联，包装的标识信息可以包括相关联的无线传输标签的标识符(即，标签ID)。In some embodiments, the packaging containing the purchased product may have an associated wireless transmission tag. For example, at a location, a wireless transmission tag may be assigned to, or otherwise paired with or associated with, a package. For example, the association between the wireless transmission tag and the corresponding package can be stored in a data structure. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless transmission tag may be attached to the tag by adhesive, one or more mechanical connectors (e.g., clips or staples), strapping, wrapping, fastening, or any other type of physical connection. on the corresponding packaging. Additionally or alternatively, the wirelessly transmitting tag may be incorporated into the package without physical attachment, such as when the tag is freely placed inside the package along with the product it contains, or when the tag is attached to its On or in shelves, boxes, drawers or other fixtures on which packaging may be placed. The wireless transmission tag associated with the packaging may be of the same type or a different type than the wireless transmission tag associated with the product provided by the venue. Due to the association between the wireless transmission tag and the package present at the venue, the identification information of the package may include the identifier of the associated wireless transmission tag (ie, the tag ID).
在一些实施方案中，与包装相关联的无线传输标签可以被配置用于近场通信(NFC)。例如，与包装相关联的标签可以被配置成经由NFC信号与移动通信设备或其他接收器通信。在这样的实施方案中，包装的标识信息可以包括近场通信标签ID。In some embodiments, wireless transmission tags associated with packaging may be configured for near field communications (NFC). For example, a tag associated with the package may be configured to communicate with a mobile communications device or other receiver via NFC signals. In such embodiments, the package's identification information may include a near field communication tag ID.
另外地或替代性地，与包装相关联的无线传输标签(在下文被称为无线传输包装标签)可以与关联于场所提供的产品的无线传输标签类似地配置。在这样的实施方案中，包装的标识信息可以包括与包装相关联的无线传输包装标签的包装标签ID。包装标签可以与场所中的任何产品无关联。例如，包装标签可以不具有与场所中的产品的物理连接(例如，包装标签可以物理地连接到包装但不连接到任何产品)。另外地或替代性地，场所的数据结构可以不包括无线传输包装标签与场所的产品之间的关联或配对。Additionally or alternatively, a wireless transmission tag associated with the packaging (hereinafter referred to as a wireless transmission packaging tag) may be configured similarly to a wireless transmission tag associated with the product provided by the venue. In such embodiments, the identification information of the package may include the package label ID of the wirelessly transmitted package label associated with the package. Packaging labels may not be associated with any product on the premises. For example, the packaging label may not have a physical connection to the products in the location (eg, the packaging label may be physically connected to the packaging but not to any product). Additionally or alternatively, the venue's data structure may not include associations or pairings between wirelessly transmitted packaging tags and the venue's products.
图19展示了具有相关联的无线传输包装标签19018的包装16012的例子。在所示的例子中，包装标签19018可以粘附或以其他方式连接到包装16012的外表面上。然而，普通技术人员将理解，可以采用任何合适的手段来连接包装标签19018与包装16012。包装标签19018可以不具有与场所的产品的关联和物理连接；相反地，包装标签19018可以与包装16012唯一地相关联。在一些实施方案中，包装标签19018可以被配置成向场所的接收器18118传输信号(例如，产品标签ID信号)。另外地或替代性地，包装标签19018可以被配置成收集和存储从接收器18118(或接收器1300a-11300h)(其可以被配置为激励器)传输的功率，并且使用所存储的功率来为包装标签19018的操作供能。Figure 19 shows an example of a package 16012 with an associated wireless transmission package label 19018. In the example shown, package label 19018 may be adhered or otherwise attached to the exterior surface of package 16012. However, one of ordinary skill will understand that any suitable means may be used to connect package label 19018 to package 16012. Packaging label 19018 may not have an association and physical connection with the product of the venue; instead, packaging label 19018 may be uniquely associated with packaging 16012 . In some embodiments, the packaging tag 19018 may be configured to transmit a signal (eg, a product tag ID signal) to a receiver 18118 at the venue. Additionally or alternatively, package tag 19018 may be configured to collect and store power transmitted from receiver 18118 (or receivers 1300a-11300h) (which may be configured as an exciter) and use the stored power to Packaging label 19018 is powered for operation.
在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输包装标签可以被配置成当包装标签被带到EAS门附近时(例如，当与包装标签相关联的包装被携带通过EAS门时)检测由EAS门传输的激活信号(例如，EAS信号)。例如，当包装标签从EAS门接收EAS信号时，包装标签可以被配置成在与EAS信号不同的频段中输出信号。特定标签可以进一步被配置成在传输中包括关于标签的状态的信息，例如指示标签正在响应于从EAS门接收EAS信号而传输信号的信息。电子安全系统的至少一个接收器可以在包装标签从EAS门接收EAS信号之后接收由包装标签传输的信号。然而，EAS门可以不检测由包装标签传输的信号，因为所述信号可以在由EAS门检测的频率范围之外。例如，EAS门可以被调谐成检测在约7-13MHz的频率范围内和/或在约58-60kHz的频率范围内的信号，而包装标签可以被配置成在约900MHz的频段内和/或在约2.4GHz的频段内传输信号。因此，包装标签(和本文公开的其他无线传输标签)可以被配置成接近EAS门(包括通过EAS门)，而不激活EAS门警报。In the disclosed embodiments, wirelessly transmitting packaging tags may be configured to detect when the packaging tag is brought into proximity of the EAS door (e.g., when a package associated with the packaging tag is carried through the EAS door). Activation signal (e.g., EAS signal). For example, when the packaging tag receives the EAS signal from the EAS gate, the packaging tag may be configured to output the signal in a different frequency band than the EAS signal. A particular tag may further be configured to include in the transmission information regarding the status of the tag, such as information indicating that the tag is transmitting a signal in response to receiving an EAS signal from an EAS gate. At least one receiver of the electronic security system may receive the signal transmitted by the packaging tag after the packaging tag receives the EAS signal from the EAS gate. However, the EAS gate may not detect the signal transmitted by the packaging label because the signal may be outside the frequency range detected by the EAS gate. For example, the EAS gate may be tuned to detect signals in the frequency range of approximately 7-13 MHz and/or in the frequency range of approximately 58-60 kHz, while the packaging tag may be configured to detect signals in the frequency range of approximately 900 MHz and/or in the frequency range of approximately 900 MHz. Transmits signals in the frequency band of approximately 2.4GHz. Thus, packaging tags (and other wireless transmission tags disclosed herein) can be configured to approach an EAS door (including through an EAS door) without activating the EAS door alarm.
所公开的实施方案可以包括场所的包装，每个包装装有从场所购买的至少一个特定产品。包装可以具有相关联的无线传输包装标签，而由包装装有的特定产品(以及可选地，由场所提供的其他产品)可以不具有相关联的无线传输标签。在这样的实施方案中，与包装相关联的无线传输包装标签可以被配置成包括无线传输标签的所有方面和执行本文所公开的无线传输标签的所有功能。进一步地，在这样的实施方案中，数据结构可以存储与无线传输包装标签相关联的ID，所述无线传输包装标签与标识包装中包括的一个或多个产品的信息(例如，型号、SKU号、价格、或其他产品信息)相关联。例如，在一些实施方案中，无线传输包装标签(而不是与产品相关联的无线传输标签)可以用本文所公开的电子安全系统来实现。另外地或替代性地，所公开的实施方案可以包括当从接近于EAS门的特定包装标签(而不是与产品相关联的特定标签)接收到传输时禁用发起警报的能力。Disclosed embodiments may include packaging for a location, each package containing at least one specific product purchased from the location. The package may have an associated wireless transmission package label, while the specific product contained by the package (and optionally other products provided by the venue) may not have an associated wireless transmission label. In such embodiments, a wirelessly transmitting packaging label associated with a package may be configured to include all aspects of a wirelessly transmitting label and perform all functions of a wirelessly transmitting label disclosed herein. Further, in such embodiments, the data structure may store an ID associated with a wirelessly transmitted packaging label that is associated with information identifying one or more products included in the package (e.g., model number, SKU number , price, or other product information). For example, in some embodiments, wirelessly transmitting packaging tags (rather than wirelessly transmitting tags associated with products) may be implemented with the electronic security systems disclosed herein. Additionally or alternatively, disclosed embodiments may include disabling the ability to initiate an alert when a transmission is received from a specific package tag proximate the EAS gate (rather than a specific tag associated with the product).
所公开的实施方案可以涉及基于从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收的信息来授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取。从移动通信设备接收的信息可以包括所购买产品正在被拾取的通知(在一些实施方案中，所述通知可以包括装有特定产品的包装的标识信息)和/或从移动通信设备接收的其他信息。在一些实施方案中，授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取可以包括准许从场所取走特定产品。例如，授权拾取可以包括禁用发起警报的能力(下文详细讨论)、更新数据结构以包括特定产品被授权进行拾取的指示和/或向与场所相关联的设备(例如，雇员设备或计算机)发送通知以将特定产品从储存区域移动到指定的拾取区域，使得购买者可以没有任何障碍地从拾取区域取回特定产品。另外地或替代性地，授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取可以包括向与购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送通知。例如，通知可以包括拾取信息，诸如拾取位置、装有特定产品的包装的标识符、或特定产品和/或装有特定产品的包装的照片或其他图像。可以被包括在拾取通知中的其他信息可以是：购买发票的副本(包括例如远程购买的时间和地点、所购买产品的细节、支付手段的细节以及支付是否被接收并按顺序处理)；关于购买者的忠诚账户或对于场所的其他会员资格的信息(具体例如为随购买接收的折扣、或随购买实现的积分、里程、返现或其他收益)；或对与此次交易中所购买的产品、或由同一购买者先前所购买产品、或由场所推荐的任何其他产品进行补充的未来购买推荐。Disclosed embodiments may involve authorizing pickup of at least one specific product based on information received from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. Information received from the mobile communications device may include notification that the purchased product is being picked up (in some embodiments, the notification may include identification information of the package containing the specific product) and/or other information received from the mobile communications device . In some embodiments, authorizing pickup of at least one specific product may include authorizing removal of the specific product from the location. For example, authorizing pickup may include disabling the ability to initiate an alert (discussed in detail below), updating a data structure to include an indication that a particular product is authorized for pickup, and/or sending a notification to a device associated with the location (e.g., an employee device or computer) To move a specific product from the storage area to a designated pickup area so that the buyer can retrieve the specific product from the pickup area without any hindrance. Additionally or alternatively, authorizing pickup of at least one particular product may include sending a notification to a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. For example, the notification may include pickup information, such as the pickup location, an identifier of the package containing the particular product, or a photo or other image of the particular product and/or the package containing the particular product. Other information that may be included in the pickup notification may be: a copy of the purchase invoice (including, for example, the time and place of the remote purchase, details of the product purchased, details of the means of payment and whether payment was received and processed in order); information about the purchase Information about the user's loyalty account or other memberships for the venue (specifically, for example, discounts received with the purchase, or points, miles, cash back or other benefits realized with the purchase); or information related to the products purchased in this transaction. , or recommendations for future purchases that are supplemented by previous purchases by the same purchaser, or by any other products recommended by the Venue.
在所公开的实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段的信息。例如，购买者可以在执行商店外产品购买的同时、在发送所购买产品正在被拾取的通知时、或者在某个其他时间指定所述时间段。替代性地或另外地，场所可以在商店外购买期间、在向购买者发送订单准备好被拾取时、作为可供购买者查阅的场所通用政策、或在某个其他时间指定所述时间段。在一些实施方案中，对特定产品的拾取可以基于是否在特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段期间尝试拾取而被授权或拒绝。In the disclosed embodiments, purchase transaction records may include information on at least one time period during which a particular product was authorized for pickup. For example, the purchaser may specify the time period while performing an out-of-store product purchase, when a notification is sent that the purchased product is being picked up, or at some other time. Alternatively or additionally, the venue may specify the time period during out-of-store purchases, when an order is sent to the purchaser ready to be picked up, as a general policy of the location available for review by the purchaser, or at some other time. In some embodiments, pickup of a particular product may be authorized or denied based on whether the pickup is attempted during a time period in which the particular product is authorized for pickup.
例如，所公开的实施方案可以包括在接收到至少一个所购买产品正在被拾取的通知时，检查所述通知是否是在至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段内被接收到的。作为说明性例子，图18所展示的处理器18114可以从移动通信设备18116接收至少一个所购买产品正在被拾取的通知。在接收到通知时，处理器18114可以访问购买交易记录18124以获得存储在其中的指示至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段的信息。处理器18114然后可以确定所述通知是否是在所述时间段内从设备18116接收到的。例如，处理器18114可以接收指示所述通知是何时从设备18116接收到(或所述通知是何时由设备18116生成)的时间戳，并且可以确定所述时间戳是否落入所述时间段内。For example, disclosed embodiments may include, upon receiving a notification that at least one purchased product is being picked up, checking whether the notification was received within a time period during which at least one particular product is authorized for pickup. As an illustrative example, the processor 18114 shown in Figure 18 can receive a notification from the mobile communication device 18116 that at least one purchased product is being picked up. Upon receiving the notification, the processor 18114 may access the purchase transaction record 18124 to obtain information stored therein indicating a time period during which at least one particular product was authorized for pickup. The processor 18114 may then determine whether the notification was received from the device 18116 within the time period. For example, processor 18114 may receive a timestamp indicating when the notification was received from device 18116 (or when the notification was generated by device 18116) and may determine whether the timestamp falls within the time period Inside.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如果所述通知是在至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段内接收到的，则授权拾取。例如，如上文所讨论的，授权拾取可以包括准许从场所取走特定产品和/或向与购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送通知。所公开的实施方案可以另外地或替代性地包括如果所述通知是在至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段之外接收到的，则拒绝拾取。例如，拒绝拾取可以包括向与购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送拒绝通知、启用发起警报的能力、以及更新数据结构以包括对特定产品的拾取被请求和拒绝的指示。Disclosed embodiments may include authorizing pickup if the notification is received within a time period in which at least one particular product is authorized for pickup. For example, as discussed above, authorizing pickup may include permission to remove a particular product from a location and/or sending a notification to a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. Disclosed embodiments may additionally or alternatively include denying pickup if the notification is received outside of a time period during which at least one particular product is authorized for pickup. For example, denying a pickup may include sending a denial notification to a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser, enabling the ability to initiate an alert, and updating a data structure to include an indication that pickup of a particular product was requested and denied.
所公开的实施方案可以包括禁用发起警报的能力。如本文所使用的，警报可以指由电子安全系统的部件生成的警告或通知，以用于向另一个部件、另一个系统和/或人通知电子安全系统已经检测到特定产品的未授权拾取或其他进入场所的入侵或场所受到的损失。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以包括被配置成发起警报的固定基础设施；例子可以包括扬声器、灯和/或图形显示器，其被布置在场所内的战略位置处，诸如在入口和/或出口处、在结账柜台或自助结账服务机附近、在储存区域中、或在拾取区域附近。至少一个处理器可以通过致使激活电子安全系统的警报发起部件而致使发起警报。另外地，至少一个处理器可以禁用警报发起部件发起警报的能力。因此，警报发起部件可以被控制成当特定事件发生时(例如，当带标签的产品被携带通过EAS门时)放弃发起警报，甚至当事件将在其他方面触发警报时也是如此。Disclosed embodiments may include disabling the ability to initiate alerts. As used herein, an alert may refer to a warning or notification generated by a component of an electronic security system for the purpose of notifying another component, another system, and/or a person that the electronic security system has detected an unauthorized pickup of a specific product or Other intrusions into the premises or damage to the premises. In some embodiments, electronic security systems may include fixed infrastructure configured to initiate alarms; examples may include speakers, lights, and/or graphic displays placed at strategic locations within the premises, such as at entrances and/or At exits, near checkout counters or self-checkout kiosks, in storage areas, or near pickup areas. At least one processor may cause an alarm to be initiated by causing activation of an alarm initiating component of the electronic security system. Additionally, at least one processor may disable the ability of the alarm initiating component to initiate an alarm. Thus, the alarm initiating component can be controlled to forego initiating an alarm when a specific event occurs (eg, when a tagged product is carried through an EAS gate), even when the event would otherwise trigger an alarm.
所公开的实施方案可以涉及当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时禁用发起警报的能力。在所公开的实施方案中，发起警报的能力的禁用可以在至少一个特定产品的拾取授权之后发生。例如，如果产品未被授权进行拾取，当接收器检测到产品的无线传输标签尝试通过场所的EAS门(或另一个安全点)时，电子安全系统的警报发起部件可以发起警报。然而，在至少一个特定产品的拾取授权之后，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以包括以下指定：与特定产品相关联的特定标签被授权进行拾取并在不触发警报的情况下离开场所。因此，当电子安全系统的接收器从接近于EAS门的特定标签接收传输时，至少一个处理器可以确定特定标签正在通过EAS门，并且可以对特定标签ID执行查找。一旦确定特定标签ID与被授权进行拾取的产品相关联，至少一个处理器就可以禁用发起警报的能力(例如，在EAS门附近的警报部件的能力)，使得特定产品可以在无中断的情况下通过EAS门。Disclosed embodiments may involve disabling the ability to initiate an alarm when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a particular tag in proximity to an EAS gate. In disclosed embodiments, disabling the ability to initiate an alert may occur upon authorization of pickup of at least one particular product. For example, if the product is not authorized for pickup, the alarm-initiating component of the electronic security system can initiate an alarm when the receiver detects that the product's wireless transmission tag attempts to pass through the facility's EAS door (or another secure point). However, upon authorization for pickup of at least one specific product, at least one processor may update the data structure to include a specification that the specific tag associated with the specific product is authorized for pickup and to leave the premises without triggering an alarm. Thus, when a receiver of an electronic security system receives a transmission from a particular tag in proximity to an EAS gate, at least one processor can determine that the particular tag is passing through the EAS gate and can perform a lookup for the particular tag ID. Once it is determined that a specific tag ID is associated with a product authorized for pickup, at least one processor can disable the ability to initiate an alarm (e.g., the ability of an alarm component near an EAS door) so that the specific product can be picked up without interruption. Go through the EAS gate.
作为例子，图16描绘了购买者1104使用移动通信设备(例如，图18的设备18116)来传输所购买产品正在从拾取区域13240被拾取的通知。例如，购买者1104可以使用移动通信设备扫描所购买产品上和/或装有所购买产品的包装16012上的条形码或其他机器可读码；基于所扫描的信息，移动通信设备可以生成通知并且将通知传输到场所的处理器(例如，图18的处理器18114)。基于接收到通知，处理器可以授权对所购买产品的拾取并且当所购买产品接近EAS门1110、1112时禁用警报器1114发出声音的能力。当购买者1104带着所购买产品接近EAS门1110、1112时，接收器11300可以接收从所购买产品的无线传输标签传输的信号。处理器可以对检测到的标签ID执行查找，并且确定标签与被授权进行拾取的产品相关联。处理器可以禁用EAS门1110、1112附近的警报器1114，使得购买者1104可以在不被警报停止或中断的情况下带着她购买的产品通过EAS门离开。As an example, FIG. 16 depicts a purchaser 1104 using a mobile communications device (eg, device 18116 of FIG. 18) to transmit a notification that purchased products are being picked up from pickup area 13240. For example, the purchaser 1104 may use a mobile communications device to scan a barcode or other machine-readable code on the purchased product and/or on the packaging 16012 containing the purchased product; based on the scanned information, the mobile communications device may generate a notification and send the The notification is transmitted to the venue's processor (eg, processor 18114 of Figure 18). Based on receiving the notification, the processor may authorize pickup of the purchased product and disable the ability of the alarm 1114 to sound when the purchased product approaches the EAS door 1110, 1112. When a buyer 1104 approaches the EAS gates 1110, 1112 with a purchased product, the receiver 11300 can receive signals transmitted from the wireless transmission tag of the purchased product. The processor may perform a lookup on the detected tag ID and determine that the tag is associated with a product authorized for pickup. The processor can disable the alarm 1114 near the EAS gates 1110, 1112 so that the buyer 1104 can exit through the EAS gate with her purchased product without being stopped or interrupted by the alarm.
在所公开的实施方案中，禁用发起警报的能力可以包括对唯一标签ID执行查找以确定相关联的至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取。作为非限制性例子，数据结构可以包括数据结构18122、购买交易记录18124和/或另一个数据结构。至少一个处理器可以在数据结构中对唯一标签ID执行查找以访问与唯一标签ID相关联的特定产品的信息。至少一个处理器可以确定特定产品的信息是否包括产品被授权进行拾取的指定。In the disclosed embodiments, disabling the ability to initiate an alert may include performing a lookup on the unique tag ID to determine that the associated at least one specific product is authorized for pickup. As non-limiting examples, data structures may include data structure 18122, purchase transaction record 18124, and/or another data structure. At least one processor can perform a lookup for the unique tag ID in the data structure to access information for a particular product associated with the unique tag ID. At least one processor may determine whether the product-specific information includes a designation that the product is authorized for pickup.
当确定特定产品被授权进行拾取时，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以将特定产品、相关联的特定标签、或装有特定产品的包装中的至少一个指定为被授权通过EAS门而不发起警报。例如，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构以包括当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时不发起警报的指令，所述传输可以指示特定标签正在通过EAS门。在一些实施方案中，待更新的数据结构可以包括场所的库存信息。作为非限制性例子，更新数据结构可以包括更新数据结构18122、购买交易记录18124或另一个数据结构中的至少一个。在一些实施方案中，更新数据结构以包括不发起警报的指令可以包括从数据结构中移除唯一标签ID和相关联的至少一个特定产品的产品ID。因此，唯一标签ID和产品ID可能不再被计数为可供销售的场所库存的一部分。在替代实施方案中，更新数据结构以包括不发起警报的指令可以包括改变数据结构中的特定产品和/或特定标签的状态指示符，以指示特定产品被授权进行拾取并因此也被授权通过EAS门而不发起警报。When it is determined that a particular product is authorized for pickup, at least one processor may update the data structure to designate at least one of the particular product, an associated particular tag, or a package containing the particular product as being authorized to pass through the EAS gate without initiating alarm. For example, at least one processor may update the data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a particular tag in proximity to an EAS gate, which transmission may indicate that the particular tag is passing through the EAS gate. In some embodiments, the data structure to be updated may include inventory information for the venue. As non-limiting examples, updating the data structure may include at least one of updating data structure 18122, purchase transaction record 18124, or another data structure. In some embodiments, updating the data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alert may include removing the unique tag ID and the associated product ID of at least one particular product from the data structure. Therefore, unique tag IDs and product IDs may no longer be counted as part of the venue's inventory available for sale. In alternative embodiments, updating the data structure to include an instruction not to initiate an alert may include changing the status indicator for a specific product and/or a specific tag in the data structure to indicate that the specific product is authorized for pickup and therefore is also authorized to pass through the EAS door without initiating an alarm.
所公开的实施方案可以包括用于向无线传输标签无线地发送功率的多个发射器。在所公开的实施方案中，所述至少一个接收器可以被配置成在由特定标签检测到EAS门时接收传输。特定标签可以进一步被配置成在传输中包括关于标签的状态的信息，例如指示标签正在响应于从EAS门接收EAS信号而传输信号的信息。Disclosed embodiments may include multiple transmitters for wirelessly sending power to wireless transmission tags. In the disclosed embodiments, the at least one receiver may be configured to receive transmissions when an EAS gate is detected by a particular tag. A particular tag may further be configured to include in the transmission information regarding the status of the tag, such as information indicating that the tag is transmitting a signal in response to receiving an EAS signal from an EAS gate.
在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以被配置成在感测到EAS门时(例如，在从EAS门接收EAS信号时)立即进行传输。如本文所使用的，“立即”传输可以意指无线传输标签被配置成在感测到EAS门时尽快地传输信号，并且标签可以不被编程为在感测到EAS门之后在传输信号之前等待指定的延迟时段。感测EAS门可以包括经由专用装置接收由EAS门传输的信号。感测EAS门还可以包括在超过一定阈值敏感度水平的情况下，识别接收到的信号属性与从EAS门的信号预期的属性相匹配。感测EAS门可以进一步包括在标签中生成内部信号，所述内部信号指示EAS门的信号被识别。另外地或替代性地，无线传输标签可以被配置成在感测到EAS门时传输指示与EAS门的接近度的ID传输。例如，在无线传输标签从EAS门接收EAS信号之后，标签可以被配置成传输指示标签的唯一标签ID的信号。因此，可以基于由信号指定的标签ID确定信号的源。在一些实施方案中，由标签基于感测到EAS门而传输的信号可以不同于由标签基于其他触发事件而传输的信号。例如，所传输的信号在至少一个方面中可以不同，诸如发射功率水平、相位、持续时间、频率、开始传输之前的延迟时段的长度和/或信号内包含的信息。在一些实施方案中，标签可以仅在标签足够接近EAS门以检测EAS信号时感测EAS门。因此，由标签基于感测到EAS门而传输的信号可以指示标签与EAS门的接近度，因为所述信号不同于由标签在其他情况下传输的信号。In the disclosed embodiments, the wireless transmitting tag may be configured to transmit immediately upon sensing the EAS gate (eg, upon receiving an EAS signal from the EAS gate). As used herein, transmitting "immediately" may mean that the wireless transmitting tag is configured to transmit a signal as soon as the EAS gate is sensed, and the tag may not be programmed to wait before transmitting a signal after sensing the EAS gate. Specified delay period. Sensing the EAS gate may include receiving signals transmitted by the EAS gate via a dedicated device. Sensing the EAS gate may also include, above a certain threshold sensitivity level, identifying received signal properties that match properties expected from the signal from the EAS gate. Sensing the EAS gate may further include generating an internal signal in the tag indicating that the signal of the EAS gate was recognized. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless transmitting tag may be configured to transmit an ID transmission indicating proximity to the EAS gate when the EAS gate is sensed. For example, after the wirelessly transmitting tag receives an EAS signal from the EAS gate, the tag may be configured to transmit a signal indicative of the tag's unique tag ID. Therefore, the source of the signal can be determined based on the tag ID specified by the signal. In some embodiments, signals transmitted by a tag based on sensing an EAS gate may be different from signals transmitted by a tag based on other triggering events. For example, the transmitted signals may differ in at least one aspect, such as transmit power level, phase, duration, frequency, length of delay period before initiating transmission, and/or information contained within the signal. In some embodiments, the tag may only sense the EAS gate when the tag is close enough to the EAS gate to detect the EAS signal. Thus, a signal transmitted by a tag based on sensing an EAS gate may be indicative of the tag's proximity to the EAS gate because the signal is different from a signal otherwise transmitted by the tag.
例如，图1描绘了购买者1104正带着具有第一无线传输标签1100a的第一产品1106并且还带着具有第二无线传输标签1100b的第二产品1122通过EAS门1110、1112离开。标签1100a和1100b可以被配置成基于接收EAS信号1118来检测EAS门1110、1112。作为响应，标签1100a和1100b可以立即传输标签ID信号1102a和1102b，而不包括开始传输之前的延迟时段。电子安全系统的接收器1124可以检测标签ID信号1102a和1102b，并且电子安全系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004或图18的处理器18114)可以确定所检测到的ID信号1102a和1102b是否与被授权通过EAS门1110、1112的产品(例如，被授权从场所进行拾取的产品)相关联。在一些实施方案中，处理器可以致使激活警告机制(诸如可听警告或闪光)以发信号通知产品1106和1122未被授权离开场所。然而，如果产品1106和1122被授权离开场所，则处理器可以在购买者1104带着产品通过EAS门时禁用警告机制的激活。For example, FIG. 1 depicts a buyer 1104 exiting through EAS gates 1110, 1112 with a first product 1106 with a first wireless transmission tag 1100a and also with a second product 1122 with a second wireless transmission tag 1100b. Tags 1100a and 1100b may be configured to detect EAS gates 1110, 1112 based on receiving EAS signals 1118. In response, tags 1100a and 1100b may immediately transmit tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b without including a delay period before commencing transmission. Receiver 1124 of the electronic security system can detect tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b, and a processor of the electronic security system (eg, processor 11004 of Figure 11 or processor 18114 of Figure 18) can determine that the detected ID signals 1102a and 1102b Whether 1102b is associated with products authorized to pass through the EAS gates 1110, 1112 (eg, products authorized for pickup from the premises). In some embodiments, the processor may cause activation of a warning mechanism (such as an audible warning or flashing light) to signal that products 1106 and 1122 are not authorized to leave the premises. However, if products 1106 and 1122 are authorized to leave the premises, the processor may disable activation of the warning mechanism when purchaser 1104 carries the products through the EAS gate.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置，由此确定与EAS门的标签接近度。例如，标签与EAS门的接近度可以由至少一个处理器基于EAS门信号的传输范围来确定，在所述传输范围之外，特定标签将不接收EAS门信号并且因此将不进行传输。通过举例的方式，图13A和图13C描绘了悬挂在货架上的产品13210，所述货架可以包含被配置成传输ID信号13102的无线传输标签1100。由于标签1100接近于接收器11300c(参见图13C)，由接收器11300c接收到的信号13102的功率水平可以高于由位于远离标签1100的其他接收器(例如，接收器11300b和11300d)接收到的信号13102的功率水平。因此，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器可以确定产品13210位于图13C的货架上或其附近，因为接收器11300c和货架的位置可以预先已知。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to determine a tag position at the time of transmission based on the transmission received by the at least one receiver, thereby determining tag proximity to the EAS gate. For example, a tag's proximity to an EAS gate may be determined by at least one processor based on the transmission range of the EAS gate signal, outside of which a particular tag will not receive the EAS gate signal and therefore will not transmit. By way of example, FIGS. 13A and 13C depict products 13210 hanging on shelves that may contain wireless transmitting tags 1100 configured to transmit ID signals 13102 . Due to the proximity of tag 1100 to receiver 11300c (see Figure 13C), the power level of signal 13102 received by receiver 11300c may be higher than that received by other receivers located further away from tag 1100 (eg, receivers 11300b and 11300d) The power level of signal 13102. Therefore, at least one processor of the electronic security system can determine that product 13210 is located on or near the shelf of Figure 13C because the locations of receiver 11300c and the shelf can be known in advance.
所公开的实施方案可以包括电子安全系统，所述电子安全系统用于促进所购买物品到购买其的场所的退回，并且用于防止对退回物品的盗窃。随着在线购买的数量增加，退回货品的数量也随之增加。据估计，远程购买(包括在线交易)的退回率几乎是在商店内购买产品的退回率的四倍，并且在一些市场和细分部分可以达到所有在线购买的50％或更多。这导致商店内退回交易数量的大幅增加，特别是因为一些零售商收取退回运输费用，许多消费者偏向于避免支付这些费用。目前，大多数的商店内退回交易需要顾客排队等待到达销售点(POS)终端，在这里员工成员可以完成退回。由于许多顾客在商店内退回货品时不会再进行其他购买，所以增加数量的商店内退回对零售商而言可能是不盈利的；这增加了零售场所的流量，可能导致进行新购物的顾客等待时间更长，并且还让顾客更加难以在商店内定位所需物品。进一步地，由于给定时间内商店内人数增加，保持社交距离可能变得困难。因此，需要一种退回模式，其允许物品在商店内的快速且无接触的退回，同时保护退回物品免受盗窃和其他损失。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems for facilitating the return of purchased items to the location where they were purchased and for preventing theft of returned items. As the number of online purchases increases, so does the number of returned items. It is estimated that the return rate for remote purchases (including online transactions) is almost four times higher than the return rate for products purchased in stores, and can reach 50% or more of all online purchases in some markets and segments. This has led to a significant increase in the number of returned transactions within stores, especially since some retailers charge return shipping fees and many consumers prefer to avoid paying these fees. Currently, most in-store return transactions require customers to wait in line to reach a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, where a member of staff can complete the return. Since many customers will not make another purchase when returning an item in-store, increasing the number of in-store returns may not be profitable for the retailer; this increases traffic to the retail location and may cause customers making new purchases to wait It takes longer and also makes it more difficult for customers to locate what they need in the store. Further, maintaining social distance may become difficult due to the increased number of people in the store at a given time. Therefore, there is a need for a returns model that allows for quick and contactless returns of items within a store while protecting returned items from theft and other losses.
所公开的实施方案可以涉及用于促进并保护先前所购买产品的商店内退回的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。实施方案可以包括用于提供产品的场所的电子安全系统，所述产品附接到无线传输标签或以其他方式与无线传输标签相关联。当购买者希望将所购买产品退回到场所时，她可以将产品带入场所中，将产品放置在指定的投放位置，并且通知电子安全系统产品已经被退回(诸如通过使用她的移动设备扫描产品、其无线传输标签、或装有产品的包装)。电子安全系统可以验证正确的产品被退回到场所(诸如通过确认所附接的无线传输标签的标识)，并且可以控制场所的安全门和其他防盗警报器：如果任何人试图从场所取走退回产品而不对其进行支付，则发起警告。此外，一旦退回的产品的状况被批准，电子安全系统就可以自动为退回产品偿还购买者。有利地，所公开的实施方案可以实现快速且低接触的货品退回，同时还防止退回物品从商店被盗窃和其他损失。Disclosed embodiments may relate to systems, methods, and computer-readable media for facilitating and protecting in-store returns of previously purchased products. Embodiments may include electronic security systems for locations where products are provided that are attached to or otherwise associated with wireless transmission tags. When a buyer wishes to return a purchased product to a location, she can bring the product into the location, place the product in a designated drop-off location, and notify the electronic security system that the product has been returned (such as by scanning the product using her mobile device , its wireless transmission label, or the packaging containing the product). Electronic security systems can verify that the correct product is returned to the premises (such as by confirming the identity of an attached wireless transmission tag) and can control the premises' security doors and other anti-theft alarms if anyone attempts to remove the returned product from the premises. If it is not paid, a warning will be issued. Additionally, the electronic security system can automatically reimburse the purchaser for the returned product once its condition is approved. Advantageously, the disclosed embodiments enable fast and low-touch returns of items while also protecting returned items from theft and other losses from the store.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方定义的电子安全系统。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以被配置用于防止对退回货物或物品的盗窃。如本文所使用的，退回货物和退回物品可以包括先前从第一方(例如，卖方)出售、给予、分发或以其他方式转移给第二方(例如，买方)并且随后转移回第一方或与第一方相关联的第三方的任何物体或材料。在一些实施方案中，购买者可以将货物或物品退回(例如，转移)回卖方，以交换货物或物品的购买价格中的一些或全部。通过非限制性举例的方式，退回货物或物品可以包括食品、服装、鞋类、电子产品、消费品、装备、车辆、消耗品、包装、配饰、供应品、材料、艺术品、动物、仪器、货板、容器、药品、化妆品、贸易品、物品、设备、机器、器具、机件、工具、家具或可以在两方或更多方之间转移的任何其他物体。Disclosed embodiments may include electronic security systems as defined elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, electronic security systems may be configured to prevent theft of returned goods or items. As used herein, returned goods and returned items may include previously sold, given, distributed or otherwise transferred from a first party (e.g., seller) to a second party (e.g., buyer) and subsequently transferred back to the first party or Any objects or materials of a third party associated with the first party. In some embodiments, the buyer may return (eg, transfer) the goods or items back to the seller in exchange for some or all of the purchase price of the goods or items. By way of non-limiting example, returned goods or items may include food, clothing, footwear, electronics, consumer goods, equipment, vehicles, consumables, packaging, accessories, supplies, materials, artwork, animals, instruments, goods Boards, containers, medicines, cosmetics, trade goods, articles, equipment, machines, utensils, parts, tools, furniture or any other object capable of being transferred between two or more parties.
所公开的实施方案可以包括防止对退回货物和/或退回物品的盗窃。用于防止对退回货物和退回物品的盗窃的实施方案可以包括用于在没有货物或物品的所有者或合法持有者的许可或同意的情况下，检测、发信号通知和/或阻碍对退回货品或物品的任何拿取或移除的任何硬件和软件部件布置。所公开的实施方案可以被配置成使得能够将货物和物品退回到商店或其他场所，并且防止退回货物或物品从场所被盗窃、偷盗或非法移除；例如，实施方案可以在退回货物或物品已经被重新购买或授权移除时(例如，当退回货物或物品将被送往场所外库存或捐赠给慈善机构时)准许从场所移除退回货物和退回物品。所公开的实施方案可以被配置成检测退回货物或物品从商店或其他场所的移除(诸如退回货物或物品从指定货架、桌子或其他储存位置的移除)或退回货物或物品通过场所中的入口、出口、安全门、窗口、门道或另一个检查点的传递。另外地或替代性地，所公开的实施方案可以被配置成确定何时对退回货物或物品的拿取或移除是未经授权的。例如，实施方案可以确定何时退回货物或物品尚未被支付、未被授权从场所拿取、或正被错误的人拿取。Disclosed embodiments may include preventing theft of returned goods and/or returned items. Embodiments for preventing theft of returned goods and returned items may include means for detecting, signaling, and/or blocking returns without the permission or consent of the owner or lawful holder of the goods or items. Arrangement of any hardware and software components for any handling or removal of goods or items. The disclosed embodiments may be configured to enable the return of goods and items to a store or other location, and to prevent the returned goods or items from being stolen, stolen, or illegally removed from the location; for example, embodiments may be configured to allow the returned goods or items to be returned once the goods or items have been returned. Removal of returned goods and returned items from the premises is permitted when they are being repurchased or when removal is authorized (for example, when the returned goods or items are to be sent to off-site inventory or donated to charity). The disclosed embodiments may be configured to detect the removal of returned goods or items from a store or other location (such as the removal of returned goods or items from a designated shelf, table, or other storage location) or the movement of returned goods or items through a location. Passage of an entrance, exit, security door, window, doorway, or another checkpoint. Additionally or alternatively, disclosed embodiments may be configured to determine when access or removal of returned goods or items is unauthorized. For example, embodiments may determine when returned goods or items have not been paid for, have not been authorized to be taken from the premises, or are being taken by the wrong person.
在所公开的实施方案中，退回物品可以包括带无线标签的退回物品。如本文所使用的，带无线标签的退回物品可以包括具有至少一个无线标签的任何退回物品。在一些实施方案中，无线标签可以包括被配置成识别退回物品或以其他方式经由无线装置传达关于退回物品的信息的任何设备或结构。作为非限制性例子，无线标签可以包括无线传输标签，如本文详细讨论的。作为另一个非限制性例子，无线标签可以包括承载对应退回物品的标识符或其他信息的非传输设备或结构。无线标签的例子可以包括贴纸、粘合标签或标牌、悬挂标签、纽扣、缝上标牌、胶带、夹上式标签、以及用于在不使用线的情况下标识退回物品的任何其他结构。在一些实施方案中，无线标签可以通过粘合、嵌入、缝合、安装、粘结、摩擦配合、装入口袋、捆扎、裹绕、紧固或任何其他类型的物理连接来附接或连接到对应的退回物品。另外地或替代性地，诸如当标签被放置在与产品相同的包装中时，退回物品与无线标签之间的关联(例如，所指派的配对或相关性)可以被建立并存储在数据结构中，而无需标签与退回物品之间的物理附接。In the disclosed embodiments, the returned items may include wirelessly tagged returned items. As used herein, a wirelessly tagged returned item may include any returned item that has at least one wireless tag. In some embodiments, a wireless tag may include any device or structure configured to identify a returned item or otherwise communicate information about a returned item via a wireless device. As a non-limiting example, wireless tags may include wireless transmission tags, as discussed in detail herein. As another non-limiting example, a wireless tag may include a non-transmitting device or structure that carries an identifier or other information corresponding to the returned item. Examples of wireless tags may include stickers, adhesive tags or tags, hanging tags, buttons, sewn-on tags, tape, clip-on tags, and any other structure used to identify returned items without the use of wires. In some embodiments, a wireless tag may be attached or connected to a corresponding tag by gluing, embedding, sewing, mounting, bonding, friction fit, pocketing, strapping, wrapping, fastening, or any other type of physical connection. of returned items. Additionally or alternatively, such as when the tag is placed in the same packaging as the product, an association (e.g., assigned pairing or correlation) between the returned item and the wireless tag may be established and stored in the data structure , without the need for physical attachment between the label and the returned item.
通过举例的方式，图16展示了用于场所的电子安全系统，所述场所提供具有相关联的无线标签(例如，无线传输标签1100)的产品。顾客可以从场所商店内购买或远程地(例如，在线或通过电话)购买产品，并且可以在场所处拾取所购买产品或可以使购买的产品递送(例如，经由邮件、UPS、FedEx或速递)到顾客的家或另一递送位置。为了将购买的物品退回到场所，顾客可以将购买的产品16016带到场所并且通过智能电话或另一移动通信设备完成退回交易。例如，先前购买者1104a可以通过将产品带入场所并且将其留在指定的投放区域16014(诸如货架、箱或桌子)处来退回购买的产品16016。产品16016可以单独退回或在袋子或包装中退回。在一些实施方案中，先前购买者1104a可以通过向电子安全系统指示她希望退回哪些产品来完成退回。在所描绘的例子中，先前购买者1104a可以使用她的移动设备(例如，移动通信设备18116)来扫描产品或装有产品的包装上的QR码或条形码，并且移动设备和/或场所的处理器可以确定与所扫描的码相关联的产品并指示产品已经被退回到场所。一旦场所确认了退回交易(例如，一旦商店员工确认了退回产品16016的状况)，电子安全系统就可以自动地为退回产品偿还先前购买者1104a。By way of example, Figure 16 illustrates an electronic security system for a venue that provides products with associated wireless tags (eg, wireless transmission tag 1100). Customers may purchase products from within the venue store or remotely (e.g., online or by phone) and may pick up the purchased products at the venue or may have the purchased products delivered (e.g., via mail, UPS, FedEx, or courier) to The customer's home or another delivery location. In order to return a purchased item to the venue, the customer can bring the purchased product 16016 to the venue and complete the return transaction via a smartphone or another mobile communication device. For example, a previous purchaser 1104a may return a purchased product 16016 by bringing the product into the venue and leaving it at a designated drop-off area 16014, such as a shelf, bin, or table. Product 16016 may be returned individually or in a bag or packaging. In some embodiments, the previous purchaser 1104a may complete the return by indicating to the electronic security system which products she wishes to return. In the depicted example, the previous purchaser 1104a may use her mobile device (e.g., mobile communications device 18116) to scan a QR code or barcode on the product or the packaging containing the product, and the mobile device and/or location process The scanner can determine the product associated with the scanned code and indicate that the product has been returned to the facility. Once the location confirms the return transaction (eg, once a store employee confirms the condition of the returned product 16016), the electronic security system can automatically reimburse the previous purchaser 1104a for the returned product.
在一些实施方案中，退回产品16016可以具有相关联的无线传输标签1100。在一些实施方案中，警报部件1114(例如，警笛或闪光灯)可以被控制以在先前购买者1104a将带标签的产品16016带入场所时放弃发起警报。然而，在产品被退回之后，警报部件1114可以相对于退回产品16016重新激活，使得如果检测到退回产品中的任何退回产品通过安全门1110、1112，可以触发警报。有利地，这种重新激活可以防止盗窃者从退回区域16014拿取退回产品16016并且将其从场所移除。进一步地，所公开的实施方案可以使得顾客能够将产品退回到场所，而无需与商店员工交互或等待接近销售点(POS)终端。In some implementations, returned product 16016 may have an associated wireless transmission tag 1100 . In some embodiments, the alarm component 1114 (eg, siren or strobe light) may be controlled to forego initiating the alarm when the previous purchaser 1104a brings the tagged product 16016 into the venue. However, after the products are returned, the alarm component 1114 may be reactivated with respect to the returned products 16016 such that if any of the returned products are detected passing through the security gates 1110, 1112, the alarm may be triggered. Advantageously, such reactivation can prevent thieves from taking returned product 16016 from returns area 16014 and removing it from the premises. Further, the disclosed embodiments may enable customers to return products to a location without having to interact with store employees or wait to approach a point-of-sale (POS) terminal.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门，如贯穿本公开文本所讨论的。至少一个EAS门可以包括声磁EAS(AM-EAS)门，所述门可以生成时变磁场，所述时变磁场被配置成与附接到商店中的产品上的安全标签中的机械振动的磁性元件相互作用。另外地或替代性地，至少一个EAS门可以包括射频EAS(RF-EAS)门，所述门可以生成扫频磁场，所述扫频磁场被配置成与安全标签中的精细调谐的谐振电路相互作用。另外地或替代性地，至少一个EAS门可以包括微波EAS(MW-EAS)门，所述门可以将RFID传输发送到安全标签并且从所述安全标签接收RFID传输。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one electronic article surveillance (EAS) door, as discussed throughout this disclosure. At least one EAS door may include an Acoustomagnetic EAS (AM-EAS) door that may generate a time-varying magnetic field configured to vibrate mechanically in security tags attached to products in the store. Magnetic elements interact. Additionally or alternatively, at least one EAS gate may include a radio frequency EAS (RF-EAS) gate that may generate a swept magnetic field configured to interact with a finely tuned resonant circuit in the security tag. effect. Additionally or alternatively, at least one EAS door may comprise a microwave EAS (MW-EAS) door that may send and receive RFID transmissions to and from the security tag.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个EAS门可以被设置在场所中。在一些实施方案中，至少一个EAS门可以位于场所内在场所的入口和/或出口处或附近、在场所的房间之间的门道内、或在场所内的任何其他位置处。如果EAS门包括多于一个基座，则这些基座可以间隔开一段距离，以允许顾客以最小的阻碍在基座之间进出场所，同时这些基座彼此处于足够近的范围内，以便被经过的EAS标签或无线传输标签触发。另外地或替代性地，至少一个EAS门可以包括隐蔽的EAS门，所述门具有被安装在场所内在地板下方、天花板上方或墙壁后面的基座。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one EAS door may be provided in the venue. In some embodiments, at least one EAS door may be located within the premises at or near an entrance and/or exit to the premises, in a doorway between rooms of the premises, or at any other location within the premises. If an EAS door includes more than one pedestal, the pedestals may be spaced apart at a distance to allow patrons to pass in and out of the premises between the pedestals with minimal obstruction, while the pedestals are sufficiently close to each other to be passed by Triggered by EAS tag or wireless transmission tag. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one EAS door may comprise a concealed EAS door having a base mounted below the floor, above the ceiling or behind a wall within the premises.
通过举例的方式，图16展示了具有位于入口16018处和出口16020处的EAS门1110、1112的示例性场所。在一些实施方案中，EAS门1110、1112可以位于入口16018和出口16020的门道内，或者替代性地，在场所内距入口和出口一段短距离处(例如，紧邻入口16018和/或出口16020)。在一些实施方案中，EAS门1110、1112可以各自包括发射器，所述发射器被配置成在预定频段内传输EAS信号；例如，所传输的EAS信号可以包括电磁能量，所述电磁能量具有例如在58-60kHz(AM-EAS波)或7-13MHz(RF-EAS波)的频段内的频率。EAS门1110、1112还可以包括被配置成接收在与所传输的EAS信号相同频段内的无线信号的EAS接收器。例如，被携带靠近EAS门1110、1112的EAS安全标签可以检测所传输的EAS信号，并且作为响应，可以将第二信号以相同频率传输或反射回EAS门1110、1112。当从安全标签接收到这个第二信号时，EAS门1110、1112可以触发警报器1114，从而指示带标签的产品通过EAS门。作为另一个例子，在EAS门1110、1112附近的无线传输标签1100可以检测所传输的EAS信号，并且作为响应，传输具有与EAS信号不同的频率的第二信号。在一些实施方案中，EAS门1110、1112可以不被标签1100触发，因为由标签1100传输的信号可以在EAS接收器的指定频段之外。因此，无线传输标签1100可以保持对EAS门1110、1112“不可见”(也就是说，由标签1100传输的信号可以不触发EAS门的响应)。By way of example, FIG. 16 shows an exemplary location with EAS doors 1110, 1112 located at entrance 16018 and exit 16020. In some embodiments, EAS doors 1110, 1112 may be located within doorways of entrances 16018 and exits 16020, or alternatively, within the premises a short distance from the entrances and exits (e.g., immediately adjacent to entrances 16018 and/or exits 16020) . In some embodiments, EAS gates 1110, 1112 may each include a transmitter configured to transmit an EAS signal within a predetermined frequency band; for example, the transmitted EAS signal may include electromagnetic energy having, for example, Frequency in the frequency band of 58-60kHz (AM-EAS wave) or 7-13MHz (RF-EAS wave). EAS gates 1110, 1112 may also include EAS receivers configured to receive wireless signals within the same frequency band as the transmitted EAS signals. For example, an EAS security tag carried close to EAS gates 1110, 1112 may detect the transmitted EAS signal, and in response, a second signal may be transmitted or reflected back to EAS gates 1110, 1112 at the same frequency. When this second signal is received from the security tag, the EAS gates 1110, 1112 can trigger the alarm 1114, thereby indicating that the tagged product has passed the EAS gate. As another example, a wireless transmitting tag 1100 near an EAS gate 1110, 1112 may detect a transmitted EAS signal and, in response, transmit a second signal having a different frequency than the EAS signal. In some embodiments, EAS gates 1110, 1112 may not be triggered by tag 1100 because the signal transmitted by tag 1100 may be outside the designated frequency band of the EAS receiver. Therefore, the wireless transmitting tag 1100 may remain "invisible" to the EAS gates 1110, 1112 (that is, the signal transmitted by the tag 1100 may not trigger a response from the EAS gate).
所公开的实施方案可以包括无线传输标签。在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括至少一个天线或者被配置用于从空气或从任何其他介质传输和可选地还接收信息和/或能量的任何其他部件和/或设备。在所公开的实施方案中，无线传输标签可以被配置成在一个或多个预定频段中传输和接收信号。Disclosed embodiments may include wirelessly transmitting tags. In the disclosed embodiments, a wireless transmitting tag may include at least one antenna or any other component and/or device configured to transmit and optionally also receive information and/or energy from the air or from any other medium. In the disclosed embodiments, wireless transmission tags may be configured to transmit and receive signals in one or more predetermined frequency bands.
在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以被附接到在场所中提供的或先前从所述场所购买的产品上。例如，标签可以通过粘合、嵌入、缝合、安装、粘结、摩擦配合、装入口袋、捆扎、裹绕、紧固或任何其他类型的物理连接来附接到产品。另外地或替代性地，无线传输标签可以被指派给产品或装有产品的包装，或以其他方式与其配对或相关，在它们之间没有物理附接。例如，无线传输标签与相关联的产品之间的配对或关联可以被预建立并存储在数据结构中。In some embodiments, wireless transmission tags may be attached to products offered at a venue or previously purchased from the venue. For example, the label may be attached to the product by gluing, embedding, sewing, mounting, bonding, friction fit, pocketing, bundling, wrapping, fastening, or any other type of physical connection. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless transmission tag may be assigned to, or otherwise paired with or associated with, the product or the packaging containing the product without physical attachment therebetween. For example, a pairing or association between a wireless transmission tag and an associated product may be pre-established and stored in a data structure.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收来自无线传输标签的传输。在一些实施方案中，从无线传输标签传输的信号可以包括标签的标识的信息(例如，字母数字ID或序列号)；因此，所传输的标签的标识可以通过评估由标签传输的信号中的ID信息来确定。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving transmissions from wirelessly transmitting tags. In some embodiments, the signal transmitted from the wirelessly transmitting tag may include information identifying the tag (e.g., an alphanumeric ID or a serial number); thus, the identity of the transmitted tag may be determined by evaluating the ID in the signal transmitted by the tag. information to determine.
所公开的实施方案可以包括至少一个接收器，所述至少一个接收器被配置成从无线传输标签接收传输。在所公开的实施方案中，接收器可以包括环境中的固定接收器、无线用户设备(例如，蜂窝电话、平板电脑、专用硬件等)、手持式接收器(例如，由场所提供给雇员或顾客以供在工作例程期间或购物会话中使用的手持式扫描仪)、或接收信号的任何其他电路或部件。所公开的实施方案可以包括固定在场所内的指定位置处的一个或多个接收器；例如，接收器可以分布在整个场所中，使得从场所内的任一点传输的信号可以被接收器中的至少一个接收器接收。另外地或替代性地，实施方案可以包括一个或多个移动接收器(例如，无线用户设备或手持式接收器)，所述一个或多个移动接收器可以由用户放置或保存在场所内的期望位置处。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from wireless transmitting tags. In the disclosed embodiments, receivers may include fixed receivers in the environment, wireless user devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, specialized hardware, etc.), handheld receivers (e.g., provided by the venue to employees or patrons) for use during work routines or shopping sessions), or any other circuit or component that receives a signal. The disclosed embodiments may include one or more receivers fixed at designated locations within the venue; for example, the receivers may be distributed throughout the venue such that signals transmitted from any point within the venue can be received by receivers within the venue. At least one receiver receives. Additionally or alternatively, embodiments may include one or more mobile receivers (e.g., wireless user devices or handheld receivers) that may be placed or maintained by a user within the premises. at the desired location.
图16描绘了电子安全系统的另一个例子，所述电子安全系统包括分布在整个场所中的多个接收器11300a-h，以接收来自无线传输标签1100和其他传输设备的信号的广播。接收器11300a-h可以附连或以其他方式附接到墙壁、天花板、架子、显示器、或场所内的能够支撑接收器的任何其他固定装置或部件。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签1100可以被附接到在场所中提供的产品(包括先前所购买产品)上。另外地或替代性地，无线传输标签1100可以被附接到装有产品的包装(诸如图19所描绘的包装16012)上。Figure 16 depicts another example of an electronic security system that includes multiple receivers 11300a-h distributed throughout a venue to receive broadcasts of signals from wireless transmitting tags 1100 and other transmitting devices. Receivers 11300a-h may be attached or otherwise attached to a wall, ceiling, shelf, display, or any other fixture or component within the venue capable of supporting the receivers. In some embodiments, wireless transmission tags 1100 may be attached to products offered in a venue, including previously purchased products. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless transmission tag 1100 may be attached to a package containing the product (such as package 16012 depicted in Figure 19).
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方所描述的至少一个处理器。在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成经由至少一个通信接口来接收和传输信息。如本文所使用的，通信接口可以包括任何类型的物理或无线联网布置，其使得能够在符合协定协议的两个或更多个实体之间交换信息。例如，通信接口可以包括有线或无线网络，诸如互联网、私有数据网络、使用公共网络的虚拟私有网络、Wi-Fi网络、LAN或WAN网络、和/或可以实现本文公开的实施方案的各个部件之间的信息交换的其他合适的连接。在一些实施方案中，通信接口可以包括用于交换数据的一个或多个物理链路，诸如电话线路、以太网、USB、雷电、同轴缆线、双绞缆线、光纤或用于交换数据的任何其他合适的物理介质。通信接口还可以包括公共交换电话网络(“PSTN”)、无线蜂窝网络、和/或覆盖在另一个接口上的逻辑连接(诸如TCP-IP和UDP)。通信接口的一些实施方案可以包括通过专用通信网络直接通信。直接通信可以使用任何合适的技术，包括例如BluetoothTM、BluetoothLow EnergyTM(BLE)、Zigbee、Wi-Fi、近场通信(NFC)或其他合适的通信方法，这些通信方法提供了在独立实体之间交换数据和/或信息的媒介。Disclosed implementations may include at least one processor as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In the disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to receive and transmit information via at least one communication interface. As used herein, a communication interface may include any type of physical or wireless networking arrangement that enables the exchange of information between two or more entities conforming to an agreed upon protocol. For example, a communication interface may include a wired or wireless network such as the Internet, a private data network, a virtual private network using a public network, a Wi-Fi network, a LAN or WAN network, and/or one of the various components that may implement the embodiments disclosed herein other suitable connections for the exchange of information. In some embodiments, the communication interface may include one or more physical links for exchanging data, such as telephone lines, Ethernet, USB, Thunderbolt, coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, optical fiber, or any other suitable physical medium. Communication interfaces may also include a public switched telephone network ("PSTN"), a wireless cellular network, and/or a logical connection overlaid on another interface (such as TCP-IP and UDP). Some implementations of communication interfaces may include direct communication over a dedicated communication network. Direct communication may use any suitable technology, including, for example, Bluetooth™ , Bluetooth Low Energy™ (BLE), Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other suitable communication method that provides a means of communication between independent entities. A medium for exchanging data and/or information.
所公开的实施方案可以包括从移动通信设备接收通知。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成从移动通信设备接收通知。如本文所使用的，通知可以包括由系统的第一部件生成的通信信号以向系统的第二部件、另一个系统或用户中的至少一个警告特定事件的发生。在一些实施方案中，通知可以由具有数据处理能力的电子设备、部件或单元生成和传输，通过非限制性举例的方式，所述电子设备、部件或单元包括个人计算机、可穿戴计算机、平板计算机、智能电话、服务器、计算系统或终端、云计算平台、通信设备、任何其他电子计算设备、或以上的任何组合。通知可以由具有数据处理能力的第二电子设备、部件或单元和/或由人类用户接收；例如，通知可以包括从第一电子设备传输到第二电子设备的数字信号。在一些实施方案中，通知可以用于控制用户界面输出可听信号(例如，警笛或语音记录)、视觉信号(例如，闪光灯或数字显示)、触觉输出(例如，用户设备的振动)或用户可感知的任何其他输出中的至少一个，以将通知的信息传达给用户。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving notifications from mobile communications devices. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive notifications from the mobile communications device. As used herein, a notification may include a communication signal generated by a first component of the system to alert at least one of a second component of the system, another system, or a user of the occurrence of a particular event. In some embodiments, notifications may be generated and transmitted by an electronic device, component or unit having data processing capabilities, including, by way of non-limiting example, a personal computer, a wearable computer, a tablet computer , smart phone, server, computing system or terminal, cloud computing platform, communication device, any other electronic computing device, or any combination of the above. The notification may be received by a second electronic device, component or unit having data processing capabilities and/or by a human user; for example, the notification may include a digital signal transmitted from the first electronic device to the second electronic device. In some embodiments, notifications can be used to control the user interface to output an audible signal (e.g., a siren or a voice recording), a visual signal (e.g., a flashing light or a digital display), a tactile output (e.g., a vibration of the user's device), or the user can At least one of any other outputs sensed to convey the notification's information to the user.
在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以包括被配置成接收和传输有线和/或无线通信信号(包括上文讨论的示例性通知信号)的任何可移动或未固定的设备或结构。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以被配置成检测特定事件的发生(例如，接收到特定用户输入)并且将对应的通知传输到电子安全系统的处理器、另一个设备和/或用户。In some embodiments, a mobile communications device may include any movable or non-stationary device or structure configured to receive and transmit wired and/or wireless communications signals, including the exemplary notification signals discussed above. In some embodiments, the mobile communications device may be configured to detect the occurrence of a specific event (eg, receipt of a specific user input) and transmit a corresponding notification to a processor of the electronic security system, another device, and/or a user.
在所公开的实施方案中，移动通信设备可以与先前购买者相关联。在各种实施方案中，先前购买者可以包括：从场所购买、租借、租赁、借用、受赠或以其他方式获取特定产品的个人或实体；从另一个人或实体购买或以其他方式获取特定产品的个人或实体(例如，下游购买者)，所述另一个人或实体进而从场所购买或以其他方式获取特定产品；特定产品的法定所有者或持有者；或被授权代表产品的所有者或法定持有者向场所退回特定产品的个人或实体。如本文所使用的，与先前购买者“相关联”的移动通信设备可以包括：先前购买者所拥有或以其他方式占有的设备；被授权代表产品的所有者或法定持有者向场所退回产品的个人所拥有或以其他方式占有的设备；被授权代表先前购买者接收和传输通信的设备；经由先前购买者的电话号码、电子邮件地址、屏幕名称或其他唯一通信手段进行通信的设备；或登录到先前购买者的账户的设备。In disclosed embodiments, the mobile communication device may be associated with a previous purchaser. In various embodiments, prior purchasers may include: a person or entity that purchased, rented, leased, loaned, received as a gift, or otherwise acquired a specific product from the venue; purchased or otherwise acquired a specific product from another person or entity; The person or entity (e.g., downstream purchaser) of the product who in turn purchases or otherwise acquires the specific product from the venue; the legal owner or holder of the specific product; or is authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the product The person or entity who returns a specific product to the venue, or the legal holder. As used herein, a mobile communications device "associated with" a prior purchaser may include: a device owned or otherwise in the possession of the prior purchaser; a device authorized to return the product to the venue on behalf of the owner or legal holder of the product; or Log into the device with the previous purchaser's account.
在所公开的实施方案中，接收到的通知可以包括意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知。例如，通知可以包括(由先前购买者或其他人)先前从场所购买并且先前购买者希望退回或转移回到场所的产品的标识。在一些实施方案中，先前购买者可以将先前所购买产品退回(或意图退回)到场所，以用于购买价格中的一些或全部的退款、以将先前所购买产品交换为另一个产品、或用于其他类型的偿还。在一些实施方案中，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备来访问网站或运行与场所相关联的应用，所述应用可以包含先前购买者的交易历史和/或先前购买者所拥有或占有的产品的记录。先前购买者可以通过在网站或应用上选择要退回到场所的一个或多个产品来生成通知，并且移动通信设备可以向至少一个处理器传输所选择的产品(例如，要退回的产品)的信息。在一些实现方式中，在生成通知期间或之后，先前购买者可以接收到估计的退款金额、退回指示或其他信息。In the disclosed embodiments, the notification received may include a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue. For example, the notification may include identification of products that were previously purchased from the venue (by a previous purchaser or otherwise) and that the previous purchaser wishes to return or transfer back to the venue. In some embodiments, a previous purchaser may return (or intend to return) a previously purchased product to a venue for a refund of some or all of the purchase price, to exchange the previously purchased product for another product, or for other types of repayment. In some embodiments, a prior purchaser may use a mobile communications device to access a website or run an application associated with a venue, which application may contain the prior purchaser's transaction history and/or information about products owned or possessed by the prior purchaser. Record. The previous purchaser may generate a notification by selecting one or more products to return to the venue on the website or application, and the mobile communications device may transmit information about the selected products (e.g., products to be returned) to at least one processor . In some implementations, prior purchasers may receive an estimated refund amount, return instructions, or other information during or after the notification is generated.
在替代实施方案中，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备与要退回的产品交互，以获得关于产品的信息。移动通信设备然后可以将关于产品的信息传输到至少一个处理器。例如，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备来扫描或捕获她希望退回的每个产品的QR码、条形码、序列号或其他唯一标识符的图像。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以识别与所扫描的码相关联的产品(例如，通过访问包含特定产品与唯一产品标识符(如条形码或序列号)之间的关联的数据结构)并且将所识别的产品的信息传输到至少一个处理器。替代性地，移动通信设备可以将所扫描的码传输到至少一个处理器，所述至少一个处理器可以使用码来识别要退回的产品。In an alternative embodiment, the previous purchaser may interact with the product being returned using a mobile communications device to obtain information about the product. The mobile communications device can then transmit information about the product to at least one processor. For example, a previous purchaser could use a mobile communications device to scan or capture an image of a QR code, barcode, serial number, or other unique identifier for each product she wishes to return. In some embodiments, the mobile communications device may identify the product associated with the scanned code (e.g., by accessing a data structure containing an association between a specific product and a unique product identifier (such as a barcode or serial number)) and Information about the identified product is transmitted to at least one processor. Alternatively, the mobile communications device may transmit the scanned code to at least one processor, which may use the code to identify the product to be returned.
作为另一个例子，移动通信设备可以被配置成从与要退回的产品相关联的无线传输标签接收传输；所述传输可以经由诸如蓝牙或NFC等通信协议发送。在一些实施方案中，由特定标签传输的信号可以包括关于标签的标识信息，诸如标签的唯一标识符(标签ID)。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以从无线识别标签接收所传输的信号，识别与标签相关联的产品(例如，通过访问包含特定产品与唯一标签ID之间的关联的数据结构)，并且将所识别的产品的信息传输到至少一个处理器。替代性地，移动通信设备可以将从无线传输标签接收的标签ID信息发送给至少一个处理器，所述至少一个处理器可以使用标签ID识别要退回的产品。As another example, the mobile communications device may be configured to receive a transmission from a wireless transmission tag associated with a product to be returned; the transmission may be sent via a communications protocol such as Bluetooth or NFC. In some embodiments, the signal transmitted by a particular tag may include identifying information about the tag, such as the tag's unique identifier (tag ID). In some embodiments, a mobile communications device may receive a transmitted signal from a wireless identification tag, identify the product associated with the tag (e.g., by accessing a data structure containing an association between a specific product and a unique tag ID), and Information about the identified product is transmitted to at least one processor. Alternatively, the mobile communications device may send tag ID information received from the wirelessly transmitted tag to at least one processor, which may use the tag ID to identify the product to be returned.
例如，图18描绘了用于场所的示例性无线识别系统18110的网络图，所述场所提供具有相关联的无线传输标签1100的产品。如本公开文本中其他地方所讨论的，系统18110可以包括使得能够在系统的元件之间交换数据的网络18112，所述元件包括一个或多个处理器18114、移动通信设备18116、数据结构18122和购买交易记录18124。在一些实施方案中，至少一个数据结构18122可以被提供用于存储场所的库存信息，包括在场所中提供的特定产品的信息。另外地或替代性地，至少一个数据结构18122可以包含无线传输标签1100的信息，诸如每个标签1100的标签ID和特定标签与特定产品之间的关联。在一些实施方案中，系统18110可以包括包含购买交易记录18124的数据结构。如本公开文本中其他地方所讨论的，购买交易记录18124可以包括个体交易的数据(例如，在给定交易中出售的一个或多个特定产品)和购买者的数据(例如，唯一购买者标识符和购买历史)。For example, FIG. 18 depicts a network diagram of an exemplary wireless identification system 18110 for a venue offering products with associated wireless transmission tags 1100 . As discussed elsewhere in this disclosure, system 18110 may include a network 18112 that enables the exchange of data between elements of the system, including one or more processors 18114, mobile communications devices 18116, data structures 18122, and Purchase transaction record 18124. In some embodiments, at least one data structure 18122 may be provided for storing inventory information for a venue, including information about specific products offered at the venue. Additionally or alternatively, at least one data structure 18122 may contain information for the wirelessly transmitted tags 1100, such as the tag ID of each tag 1100 and the association between a particular tag and a particular product. In some embodiments, system 18110 may include a data structure containing purchase transaction records 18124. As discussed elsewhere in this disclosure, purchase transaction records 18124 may include data for individual transactions (e.g., the specific product or products sold in a given transaction) and data for the purchaser (e.g., a unique purchaser identification and purchase history).
在一些实施方案中，希望将先前所购买产品退回到场所的顾客可以使用移动通信设备18116来将意图退回产品的通知传输到一个或多个处理器18114。例如，顾客可以使用设备18116来访问网站或运行应用来生成通知。作为非限制性例子，图20A和图20B描绘了用于生成意图退回一个或多个先前购买产品的通知的示例性图形用户界面(GUI)。在一些实施方案中，顾客可以使用移动通信设备18116来访问网站或运行与场所相关联的应用；所述网站或应用可以包括用于生成意图将产品退回到场所的通知的GUI 20110和20210。In some embodiments, a customer wishing to return a previously purchased product to a location may use the mobile communications device 18116 to transmit notification of the intent to return the product to one or more processors 18114. For example, a customer may use device 18116 to access a website or run an application to generate notifications. As a non-limiting example, Figures 20A and 20B depict an exemplary graphical user interface (GUI) for generating a notification of intent to return one or more previously purchased products. In some embodiments, a customer may use a mobile communications device 18116 to access a website or run an application associated with a venue; the website or application may include GUIs 20110 and 20210 for generating notifications of intent to return products to the venue.
图20A展示了在移动通信设备18116上显示的用于访问先前由顾客购买或以其他方式由顾客获取的产品的信息的图形用户界面(GUI)20110的非限制性例子。例如，GUI20110可以包括第一字段20112，在所述第一字段中顾客可以输入其唯一购买者标识符(“用户ID”)，所述购买者标识符可以包括例如用户姓名、电子邮件地址或电话号码。GUI 20110还可以包括第二字段20114，在所述第二字段中顾客可以输入要退回的一个或多个产品的订单或交易号。移动通信设备18116可以执行在购买交易记录18124中对用户ID执行搜索以访问顾客的交易历史。设备18116可以使用来自第二字段20114的订单或交易号来识别顾客的交易历史中的特定交易，并且可以显示具有在所识别的交易中购买的产品的信息的第二GUI 20210。如下文更详细讨论的，顾客可以使用第二GUI 20210来选择要退回到场所的产品。20A illustrates a non-limiting example of a graphical user interface (GUI) 20110 displayed on a mobile communications device 18116 for accessing information about products previously purchased or otherwise obtained by a customer. For example, the GUI 20110 may include a first field 20112 in which a customer may enter their unique purchaser identifier ("User ID"), which may include, for example, the user's name, email address, or phone number Number. The GUI 20110 may also include a second field 20114 in which the customer may enter an order or transaction number for one or more products to be returned. The mobile communications device 18116 may perform a search for the user ID in the purchase transaction record 18124 to access the customer's transaction history. The device 18116 may use the order or transaction number from the second field 20114 to identify a specific transaction in the customer's transaction history and may display the second GUI 20210 with information about the products purchased in the identified transaction. As discussed in more detail below, the customer can use the second GUI 20210 to select products to return to the venue.
在替代实施方案中，移动通信设备18116可以从用户接收她的唯一用户ID，并且可以在购买交易记录18124中对用户ID执行搜索，以访问顾客的交易历史，而无需订单号或交易号。在一些实施方案中，设备18116可以提示用户从交易历史中选择特定交易，并且然后可以显示具有在所识别的交易中购买的产品的信息的第二GUI 20210。在替代实施方案中，移动通信设备18116可以访问顾客的交易历史以生成由顾客先前从场所购买的所有产品的列表。设备18116然后可以显示具有从场所购买的产品的信息的第二GUI 20210。In an alternative embodiment, the mobile communications device 18116 may receive her unique user ID from the user and may perform a search for the user ID in the purchase transaction record 18124 to access the customer's transaction history without requiring an order number or transaction number. In some embodiments, the device 18116 may prompt the user to select a specific transaction from the transaction history, and may then display a second GUI 20210 with information about the products purchased in the identified transaction. In an alternative embodiment, the mobile communications device 18116 may access the customer's transaction history to generate a list of all products previously purchased by the customer from the venue. Device 18116 may then display a second GUI 20210 with information about products purchased from the venue.
图20B展示了在移动通信设备18116上显示的用于选择要退回到场所的一个或多个先前所购买产品的图形用户界面(GUI)20210的非限制性例子。GUI 20210可以包括交易或订单和/或生成通知的顾客的标识符20212。GUI 20210还可以包括所购买产品的描述20214、所购买产品的图像20216、以及用户可选择以指定供退回的各个产品的字段20218(例如，勾选框)。基于字段20218中的选择，移动通信设备18116可以生成意图退回所选择的产品的通知并且将所述通知传输到至少一个处理器18114。20B illustrates a non-limiting example of a graphical user interface (GUI) 20210 displayed on a mobile communications device 18116 for selecting one or more previously purchased products to be returned to a venue. The GUI 20210 may include an identifier 20212 of the transaction or order and/or the customer who generated the notification. The GUI 20210 may also include a description of the purchased product 20214, an image of the purchased product 20216, and fields 20218 (eg, checkboxes) in which the user can select to designate individual products for return. Based on the selection in field 20218, the mobile communications device 18116 may generate a notification of intent to return the selected product and transmit the notification to at least one processor 18114.
在所公开的实施方案中，电子安全系统的所述至少一个处理器可以被配置成经由一个或多个通信协议或技术与先前购买者的移动通信设备通信；至少一个处理器可以尤其是经由一个或多个通信协议或技术从移动通信设备接收意图退回先前所购买产品的通知。例如，移动通信设备可以经由一个或多个协议与至少一个处理器通信，如在本公开文本中其他地方所讨论的。In the disclosed embodiments, the at least one processor of the electronic security system may be configured to communicate with the previous purchaser's mobile communication device via one or more communication protocols or technologies; the at least one processor may inter alia communicate via a Or multiple communication protocols or technologies receive notifications from mobile communication devices of intent to return previously purchased products. For example, a mobile communications device may communicate with at least one processor via one or more protocols, as discussed elsewhere in this disclosure.
所公开的实施方案可以至少包括在场所中的第二接收器，第二接收器被配置成接收来自与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备的无线传输。例如，第二接收器可以包括场所中的接入点或无线路由器，所述接入点或无线路由器可以与移动通信设备建立无线连接。至少一个处理器可以具有到第二接收器的有线(例如，以太网)和/或无线连接，从而使得能够在移动通信设备与至少一个处理器之间进行数据传输。在一些实施方案中，被配置成接收来自无线传输标签的传输的至少一个接收器(例如，图11的接收器11300a-11300g或图18的接收器18118)可以包括第二接收器。替代性地，第二接收器可以不同于被配置成从标签接收传输的至少一个接收器。在一些实施方案中，第二接收器可以被配置成从移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知；例如，先前购买者在场所中时可以使用移动通信设备经由Wi-Fi连接发送通知。第二接收器还可以被配置成从移动通信设备接收其他信息的无线传输。Disclosed embodiments may include at least a second receiver in the venue configured to receive wireless transmissions from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser. For example, the second receiver may include an access point or wireless router in the venue that may establish a wireless connection with the mobile communications device. The at least one processor may have a wired (eg, Ethernet) and/or wireless connection to the second receiver, thereby enabling data transmission between the mobile communications device and the at least one processor. In some embodiments, at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from a wirelessly transmitting tag (eg, receivers 11300a-11300g of Figure 11 or receiver 18118 of Figure 18) may include a second receiver. Alternatively, the second receiver may be different from the at least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the tag. In some embodiments, the second receiver may be configured to receive notification from the mobile communications device of an intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue; for example, the previous purchaser may use the mobile communications device via a Wi-Fi connection while present at the venue Send notification. The second receiver may also be configured to receive wireless transmissions of other information from the mobile communications device.
所公开的实施方案可以另外地或替代性地包括通过蜂窝网络或任何其他网络连接从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收传输。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成通过蜂窝网络从移动通信设备接收传输。在一些实施方案中，通过蜂窝网络从移动通信设备接收的传输可以包括意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知；因此，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备远程地生成通知(例如，当购买者在家里或在其车辆中时)。通过蜂窝网络接收的传输还可以包括从移动通信设备传输的其他信息。作为例子，在各种实施方案中，图18所示的网络18112可以被配置为蜂窝网络。包括意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知的信息可以经由网络18112在移动通信设备18116与一个或多个处理器18114之间传输。Disclosed embodiments may additionally or alternatively include receiving transmissions from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser over a cellular network or any other network connection. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive transmissions from a mobile communications device over a cellular network. In some embodiments, a transmission received from a mobile communications device over a cellular network may include a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue; thus, the prior purchaser may generate the notification remotely using the mobile communications device (e.g., when the purchaser while at home or in their vehicle). Transmissions received over the cellular network may also include other information transmitted from the mobile communications device. As an example, in various embodiments, network 18112 shown in Figure 18 may be configured as a cellular network. Information including notification of intent to return previously purchased products to the location may be transmitted between the mobile communications device 18116 and the one or more processors 18114 via the network 18112 .
所公开的实施方案可以包括特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。如本文所使用的，唯一标签ID可以指的是指派给无线传输标签中的特定一个无线传输标签或以其他方式与其相关联的数据，所述特定一个无线传输标签对特定标签是唯一的并且向用户和/或向其他设备或设备部件标识标签。唯一标签ID可以包括数字、字母、字符、码、字符串或可以允许标识除其他无线传输标签之外的对应标签的其他数据形式。在一些实施方案中，唯一标签ID对于特定标签可以是唯一的，并且该特定标签可以仅具有一个标签ID。替代性地，同一个标签可以有多个唯一标签ID。标签ID的例子可以包括序列号、零件号、条形码、UUID、EPC和对特定无线传输标签唯一的其他数据。在一些实施方案中，在制造或编程特定标签时，唯一标签ID可以与特定标签配对或指派给特定标签。例如，无线传输标签可以来自预先编程有标签ID的标签供应商，或者标签ID可以由场所或标签分销链上的场所上游的实体编程。Disclosed embodiments may include a unique tag ID for a particular wireless transmission tag. As used herein, a unique tag ID may refer to data assigned to or otherwise associated with a particular one of the wireless transmission tags that is unique to the particular tag and to which User and/or identification tags to other devices or device parts. The unique tag ID may include numbers, letters, characters, codes, strings, or other data forms that may allow identification of the corresponding tag in addition to other wireless transmission tags. In some embodiments, a unique tag ID may be unique to a particular tag, and that particular tag may have only one tag ID. Alternatively, the same tag can have multiple unique tag IDs. Examples of tag IDs may include serial numbers, part numbers, barcodes, UUIDs, EPCs, and other data that are unique to a specific wireless transmission tag. In some embodiments, a unique tag ID may be paired with or assigned to a specific tag when the specific tag is manufactured or programmed. For example, the wireless transmission tag may come from a tag supplier with the tag ID pre-programmed, or the tag ID may be programmed by the venue or an entity upstream of the venue in the tag distribution chain.
在一些实施方案中，特定无线传输标签可以与先前所购买产品相关联。也就是说，唯一标签ID可以对应于特定无线传输标签，所述特定无线传输标签进而可以与先前所购买产品相关联。如本文所使用的，“与…相关联”可以意指特定无线传输标签(在下文中被称为“特定标签”)可以被指派给先前所购买产品或者以其他方式与所述先前所购买产品配对或相关。特定标签与先前所购买产品之间的配对或关联可以存储在数据结构中，使得特定标签的信息(例如，特定标签的唯一标签ID)可以用于从数据结构访问先前所购买产品的信息，并且反之亦然。In some embodiments, specific wireless transmission tags may be associated with previously purchased products. That is, the unique tag ID may correspond to a specific wireless transmission tag, which in turn may be associated with a previously purchased product. As used herein, "associated with" may mean that a specific wireless transmission tag (hereinafter referred to as a "specific tag") may be assigned to or otherwise paired with a previously purchased product or related. The pairing or association between a particular tag and a previously purchased product may be stored in a data structure such that information about a particular tag (e.g., a unique tag ID for a particular tag) may be used to access information about previously purchased products from the data structure, and vice versa.
在一些实施方案中，“与…相关联”可以另外地或替代性地意指特定标签物理地附接到先前所购买产品。例如，特定标签可以通过粘合、嵌入、缝合、安装、粘结、摩擦配合、装入口袋、捆扎、裹绕、紧固或任何其他类型的物理连接来附接到先前所购买产品。在一些实施方案中，特定标签可以以永久或半永久的方式附接到先前所购买产品，使得可能难以从产品移除特定标签或使得从产品移除特定标签可能会损坏产品。In some embodiments, "associated with" may additionally or alternatively mean that a particular tag is physically attached to a previously purchased product. For example, a specific tag may be attached to a previously purchased product by gluing, embedding, sewing, mounting, bonding, friction fit, pocketing, bundling, wrapping, fastening, or any other type of physical connection. In some embodiments, certain tags may be attached to a previously purchased product in a permanent or semi-permanent manner such that removal of the certain tag from the product may be difficult or such that removal of the certain tag from the product may damage the product.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如本文中其他地方定义的至少一个数据结构。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器可以被配置成从至少一个数据结构中访问、搜索、检索、添加、修改、覆写和/或移除数据。在一些实施方案中，其他通信设备(诸如与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备)可以被配置成访问存储在至少一个数据结构中的一些或全部数据。在一些实施方案中，与电子安全系统相关联的数据结构可以包含无线传输标签的信息(包括每个标签的唯一标签ID)和由场所先前销售和/或当前提供的产品的信息(包括对于每个产品的唯一产品标识符或“产品ID”，诸如序列号、唯一EPC码、库存单位(SKU)、通用产品码(UPC)、条形码或QR码)。数据结构还可以包含标签ID与产品ID之间的配对信息，包括先前所购买产品的唯一标签ID与产品ID之间的配对信息。在一些实施方案中，与电子安全系统相关联的至少一个数据结构可以包含如本文所定义的购买交易记录。作为非限制性例子，数据结构可以包括图18所描绘的购买交易记录18124。另外地或替代性地，与电子安全系统相关联的数据结构可以包含场所的库存信息。作为非限制性例子，数据结构可以包括图18所描绘的数据结构18122。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one data structure as defined elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, at least one processor of the electronic security system may be configured to access, search, retrieve, add, modify, overwrite, and/or remove data from at least one data structure. In some implementations, other communications devices, such as mobile communications devices associated with previous purchasers, may be configured to access some or all of the data stored in at least one data structure. In some embodiments, data structures associated with the electronic security system may contain information about wirelessly transmitted tags (including a unique tag ID for each tag) and information about products previously sold and/or currently offered by the venue (including information for each tag). A unique product identifier or "product ID" for each product, such as a serial number, unique EPC number, stock keeping unit (SKU), universal product code (UPC), barcode or QR code). The data structure may also contain pairing information between tag IDs and product IDs, including unique tag ID and product ID pairings for previously purchased products. In some embodiments, at least one data structure associated with the electronic security system may contain a purchase transaction record as defined herein. As a non-limiting example, the data structure may include the purchase transaction record 18124 depicted in FIG. 18 . Additionally or alternatively, data structures associated with the electronic security system may contain inventory information for the venue. As a non-limiting example, the data structure may include data structure 18122 depicted in FIG. 18 .
所公开的实施方案可以包括在数据结构中识别特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。例如，识别特定标签的唯一标签ID可以包括在数据结构中执行查找，所述数据结构可以包含场所的购买交易记录(如本文所定义的)和库存信息中的至少一个。在一些实施方案中，在数据结构中识别唯一标签ID可以包括接收特定产品(例如，先前所购买产品)的产品ID并且在数据结构中对产品ID执行查找。由于先前所购买产品的产品ID与特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID之间的关联，产品ID可以用于从数据结构中访问对应的无线传输标签的信息，包括标签的唯一标签ID。Disclosed embodiments may include a unique tag ID that identifies a particular wireless transmission tag in a data structure. For example, identifying the unique tag ID of a particular tag may include performing a lookup in a data structure that may contain at least one of a venue's purchase transaction record (as defined herein) and inventory information. In some embodiments, identifying the unique tag ID in the data structure may include receiving a product ID for a specific product (eg, a previously purchased product) and performing a lookup for the product ID in the data structure. Due to the association between the product ID of a previously purchased product and the unique tag ID of a specific wireless transmission tag, the product ID can be used to access the corresponding wireless transmission tag information from the data structure, including the tag's unique tag ID.
所公开的实施方案可以包括在接收到意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知之后在数据结构中识别唯一标签ID。在一些实施方案中，通知中包括的信息可以用于在数据结构中识别唯一标签ID。例如，通知可以包括先前购买者意图退回到场所的先前购买产品的产品ID。如上文所讨论的，产品ID可以用于在数据结构中执行查找以识别特定标签的唯一标签ID。Disclosed embodiments may include identifying a unique tag ID in a data structure upon receipt of notification of intent to return a previously purchased product to a location. In some embodiments, information included in the notification can be used to identify the unique tag ID in a data structure. For example, the notification may include the product ID of a previously purchased product that the previous purchaser intended to return to the venue. As discussed above, the product ID can be used to perform a lookup in the data structure to identify the unique tag ID for a specific tag.
在替代实施方案中，识别与先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的唯一标签ID可以包括从先前购买者的移动通信设备接收唯一标签ID。例如，移动通信设备可以将唯一标签ID提供给至少一个处理器，作为被包括在意图退回先前所购买产品的通知中或在另一数据传输中的信息。在这种情况下，可能不需要在数据结构中执行查找以识别唯一标签ID。In alternative embodiments, identifying the unique tag ID of a particular tag associated with a previously purchased product may include receiving the unique tag ID from the previous purchaser's mobile communications device. For example, the mobile communications device may provide the unique tag ID to at least one processor as information included in a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product or in another data transmission. In this case, it may not be necessary to perform a lookup in the data structure to identify the unique tag ID.
作为说明性例子，图18描绘了被配置成从移动通信设备18116接收先前所购买产品的产品ID的处理器18114。例如，产品ID可以被包括在意图退回先前所购买产品的通知中，所述通知可以从设备18116传输到处理器18114。替代性地，产品ID可以被包括在从设备18116到处理器18114的不同传输中。处理器18114可以在包含无线传输标签1100与特定产品之间的配对信息的数据结构中对产品ID执行查找；数据结构可以包括数据结构18122和购买交易记录18124中的一个或两个。基于查找，处理器18114可以访问与先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的信息，包括标签的唯一标签ID。As an illustrative example, FIG. 18 depicts a processor 18114 configured to receive a product ID of a previously purchased product from a mobile communications device 18116. For example, the product ID may be included in a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product, which notification may be transmitted from the device 18116 to the processor 18114 . Alternatively, the product ID may be included in a different transmission from the device 18116 to the processor 18114. Processor 18114 may perform a lookup for the product ID in a data structure containing pairing information between wireless transmission tag 1100 and a specific product; the data structure may include one or both of data structure 18122 and purchase transaction record 18124. Based on the lookup, the processor 18114 may access information for the specific tag associated with the previously purchased product, including the tag's unique tag ID.
在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备18116可以被配置成获得唯一标签ID且将唯一标签ID发送到处理器18114。例如，设备18116可以通过扫描或捕获先前所购买产品的条形码、QR码或另一标识符的图像来接收唯一标签ID，并且可以对产品标识符执行查找(例如，在数据结构18122中或购买交易记录18124中)以访问对应的唯一标签ID。作为另一个例子，与先前所购买产品相关联的特定无线传输标签1100可以经由诸如NFC等通信媒介将包含唯一标签ID的信息的信号传输到设备18116。设备18116然后可以将唯一标签ID发送到处理器18114。In some embodiments, the mobile communications device 18116 may be configured to obtain the unique tag ID and send the unique tag ID to the processor 18114. For example, device 18116 may receive a unique tag ID by scanning or capturing an image of a barcode, QR code, or another identifier for a previously purchased product, and may perform a lookup for the product identifier (e.g., in data structure 18122 or a purchase transaction record 18124) to access the corresponding unique tag ID. As another example, a specific wireless transmission tag 1100 associated with a previously purchased product may transmit a signal containing information of the unique tag ID to the device 18116 via a communication medium such as NFC. Device 18116 may then send the unique tag ID to processor 18114.
在所公开的实施方案中，数据结构可以包括先前所购买产品被授权退回的时间段的信息。在一些实施方案中，先前所购买产品被授权退回的时间段(在下文中被称为授权退回时段)可以由场所、先前所购买产品的制造商、先前所购买产品的分销商、先前购买者或由另一个人或实体确定。替代性地，授权退回时段可以由处理器(例如，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器)自动确定并存储在数据结构中。在一些实施方案中，先前所购买产品的授权退回时段可以是由场所确定的时间长度(例如，30天、90天或任何其他时间段)，并且可以对应于场所计划保存先前所购买产品的库存并提供产品以供销售的时间长度。因此，授权退回时段的结束可以与场所停止提供先前所购买产品以供销售的时间一致。在一些实施方案中，授权退回时段可以由管理场所的法规指定(诸如法律规定的对于退回的最小时段)。在一些实施方案中，在授权退回时段结束之后，先前所购买产品可能没有资格退回到场所。In the disclosed embodiments, the data structure may include information about the time period during which previously purchased products were authorized to be returned. In some embodiments, the time period during which a previously purchased product is authorized to be returned (hereinafter referred to as the authorized return period) may be determined by the venue, the manufacturer of the previously purchased product, the distributor of the previously purchased product, the previous purchaser, or Identified by another person or entity. Alternatively, the authorization withdrawal period may be automatically determined by a processor (eg, at least one processor of the electronic security system) and stored in a data structure. In some embodiments, the authorized return period for previously purchased products may be a length of time determined by the venue (e.g., 30 days, 90 days, or any other period of time) and may correspond to the venue's plans to maintain inventory of previously purchased products and the length of time the product is available for sale. Therefore, the end of the authorized return period may coincide with the time when the venue ceases to offer previously purchased product for sale. In some embodiments, the authorized return period may be specified by regulations governing the site (such as a legally mandated minimum period for returns). In some embodiments, previously purchased products may not be eligible to be returned to the venue after the authorized return period has ended.
所公开的实施方案可以包括在接收到意图将先前产品退回到场所的通知时，检查所述通知是否是在先前所购买产品被授权退回的时间段内(即，在授权退回时段内)接收到的。作为说明性例子，图18所示的处理器18114可以从移动通信设备18116接收意图退回先前产品的通知。在接收到所述通知时，处理器18114可以从数据结构18122和购买交易记录18124中的至少一个中访问授权退回时段的信息。处理器18114然后可以确定所述通知是否是在授权退回时段内从设备18116接收到的。例如，处理器18114可以接收指示所述通知是何时从设备18116接收到(或所述通知是何时由设备18116生成)的时间戳，并且可以确定时间戳是否落入授权退回时段内。Disclosed embodiments may include, upon receiving a notification of an intent to return a previous product to the venue, checking whether the notification was received within a time period in which the previously purchased product was authorized to be returned (i.e., within the authorized return period) of. As an illustrative example, processor 18114 shown in FIG. 18 may receive a notification from mobile communications device 18116 of an intent to return a previous product. Upon receiving the notification, the processor 18114 may access the authorized return period information from at least one of the data structure 18122 and the purchase transaction record 18124 . Processor 18114 may then determine whether the notification was received from device 18116 within the authorization fallback period. For example, processor 18114 may receive a timestamp indicating when the notification was received from device 18116 (or when the notification was generated by device 18116) and may determine whether the timestamp falls within the authorization fallback period.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如果所述通知是在所述时间段内被接收到的，则授权将先前所购买产品退回到场所。例如，授权先前所购买产品的退回可以包括向与购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送具有投放说明的通知。授权先前所购买产品的退回还可以包括更新数据结构以包括先前所购买产品的退回被请求和授权的指示。所公开的实施方案还可以包括如果所述通知是在所述时间段之外被接收到的，则拒绝将先前所购买产品退回到场所。例如，拒绝先前所购买产品的退回可以包括向与购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送拒绝通知，并且更新数据结构以包括先前所购买产品的退回被请求和拒绝的指示。Disclosed embodiments may include authorizing return of previously purchased products to the venue if the notification is received within the time period. For example, authorizing the return of a previously purchased product may include sending a notification with delivery instructions to a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. Authorizing a return of a previously purchased product may also include updating the data structure to include an indication that a return of the previously purchased product is requested and authorized. Disclosed embodiments may also include refusing to return previously purchased products to the venue if the notification is received outside of the time period. For example, denying a return of a previously purchased product may include sending a denial notification to a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser and updating the data structure to include an indication that a return of the previously purchased product was requested and denied.
所公开的实施方案可以包括验证由特定标签的唯一标签ID标识的特定产品是曾被先前购买者购买的。在一些实施方案中，所述验证可以在接收到意图退回先前所购买产品的通知时执行。例如，验证由唯一标签ID标识的特定产品是曾由先前购买者购买的(“所述验证”)可以包括确认先前购买者是她意图退回到场所的产品的所有者或合法持有者；这可以允许识别顾客企图退回由其他人拥有的产品的情况。在一些实施方案中，所述验证可以包括访问先前购买者意图退回到场所的一个或多个特定产品的购买历史。例如，特定产品的购买历史可以包含在数据结构中，并且可以包括当前或先前拥有一个或多个特定产品的个人的信息。从购买历史中，至少一个处理器可以接收当前拥有一个或多个特定产品的人的标识信息；所述标识信息可以包括当前所有者的唯一标识符，诸如他们的姓名、电子邮件地址或唯一顾客号码。当前所有者的标识信息可以与先前购买者的标识信息进行比较以确定先前购买者是否是当前所有者。另外地或替代性地，如果先前购买者购买了物品作为礼物，并且与产品一起接收到礼品券或兑换券，则基于在购买交易记录中包括礼品券或兑换券被提供作为购买的一部分的事实，接收到产品作为礼物(连同礼品券或兑换券)的人可以使用礼品券或兑换券来将他们自己标识为有资格退回的产品的当前所有者，尽管他们的标识未被包括在购买交易记录中。Disclosed embodiments may include verifying that a particular product identified by a particular tag's unique tag ID was purchased by a previous purchaser. In some embodiments, the verification may be performed upon receipt of notification of intent to return a previously purchased product. For example, verifying that a particular product identified by a unique tag ID was purchased by a previous purchaser ("said verification") may include confirming that the prior purchaser is the owner or legal holder of the product she intends to return to the premises; this May allow identification of situations where a customer attempts to return a product owned by someone else. In some embodiments, the verification may include accessing the purchase history of one or more specific products that previous purchasers intended to return to the venue. For example, the purchase history of a specific product may be contained in the data structure and may include information about individuals who currently or previously owned one or more specific products. From the purchase history, at least one processor may receive identifying information of a person who currently owns one or more specific products; the identifying information may include a unique identifier of the current owner, such as their name, email address, or unique customer Number. The current owner's identification information may be compared to the previous purchaser's identification information to determine whether the previous purchaser is the current owner. Additionally or alternatively, if a previous purchaser purchased the item as a gift and received a gift certificate or redemption voucher along with the product, then based on the inclusion in the purchase transaction record of the fact that the gift certificate or redemption voucher was provided as part of the purchase , a person who receives a product as a gift (along with a gift certificate or redemption voucher) may use the gift certificate or redemption voucher to identify themselves as the current owner of the product eligible for return, even though their identification is not included in the purchase transaction record middle.
如果确定了先前购买者是当前所有者，则先前所购买产品可以被验证为已被先前购买者购买。所公开的实施方案可以包括当先前所购买产品被验证为已被先前购买者购买时，更新数据结构。更新数据结构可以包括向数据结构中的先前所购买产品的信息添加验证指定。然而，如果不能确定先前购买者是当前所有者(例如，如果先前购买者没有被包括在购买历史中或者如果先前购买者不是购买历史中最当前所有者)，则先前所购买产品可以不被验证为已被先前购买者购买。所公开的实施方案可以包括如果先前所购买产品未被验证为已被特定先前购买者购买，则避免更新数据结构。在一些实施方案中，避免更新数据结构可以包括放弃向数据结构中的先前所购买产品的信息添加验证指定。在一些实施方案中，在授权先前所购买产品退回到场所之前或在向先前购买者发起退款之前，至少一个处理器可以要求验证先前所购买产品。因此，可以防止先前购买者退回由其他人拥有的产品。If the previous purchaser is determined to be the current owner, the previously purchased product may be verified as having been purchased by the previous purchaser. Disclosed embodiments may include updating the data structure when a previously purchased product is verified to have been purchased by a previous purchaser. Updating the data structure may include adding validation designations to previously purchased product information in the data structure. However, previously purchased products may not be verified if it cannot be determined that the previous purchaser is the current owner (e.g., if the previous purchaser is not included in the purchase history or if the previous purchaser is not the most current owner in the purchase history). Has been purchased by a previous purchaser. Disclosed embodiments may include avoiding updating the data structure if a previously purchased product has not been verified as having been purchased by a specific previous purchaser. In some embodiments, avoiding updating the data structure may include forgoing adding validation designations to previously purchased product information in the data structure. In some embodiments, at least one processor may require verification of previously purchased products before authorizing their return to the venue or before initiating a refund to the previous purchaser. This prevents previous purchasers from returning products owned by others.
在一些实施方案中，先前购买者可以通过将产品投放在场所处来完成退回。例如，当先前购买者准备将先前所购买产品退回到场所时，她可以将产品放置在袋子或包装中(例如，带着产品的原始标签)，将产品带入场所，并且将产品放置在指定的投放区域中。先前购买者然后可以使用移动通信设备来向电子安全系统发送指示产品已经被退回的通知，并且可以在不需要在POS终端完成交易的情况下离开场所。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以向移动通信设备发送对接收到先前所购买产品的确认。In some embodiments, the previous purchaser may complete the return by dropping off the product at the venue. For example, when a previous purchaser is returning a previously purchased product to the venue, she may place the product in a bag or packaging (e.g., with the product's original tag), bring the product into the venue, and place the product in a designated in the delivery area. The previous purchaser can then use the mobile communications device to send a notification to the electronic security system indicating that the product has been returned, and can leave the premises without completing the transaction at the POS terminal. In some embodiments, the electronic security system may send a confirmation of receipt of the previously purchased product to the mobile communications device.
在一些实施方案中，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备来通知电子安全系统先前所购买产品已经退回到场所(例如，向场所发送退回完成通知)。退回完成通知可以包括退回到场所的特定产品(“退回产品”)的标识信息。例如，先前购买者可以使用移动通信设备来访问网站或运行与场所相关联的应用，其可以包括用于生成退回完成通知的用户界面或其他机制。退回完成通知可以例如基于利用移动通信设备对退回产品的条形码或QR码的扫描或基于移动通信设备上所显示的图形用户界面(GUI)上的退回产品的用户选择来生成。替代性地，可以通过其他方法生成退回完成通知。In some embodiments, the previous purchaser may use the mobile communication device to notify the electronic security system that the previously purchased product has been returned to the venue (eg, send a return completion notification to the venue). The return completion notification may include identification information of the specific product being returned to the venue (the "returned product"). For example, the previous purchaser may use a mobile communications device to access the website or run an application associated with the venue, which may include a user interface or other mechanism for generating a return completion notification. The return completion notification may be generated, for example, based on scanning of a barcode or QR code of the returned product using the mobile communication device or based on user selection of the returned product on a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on the mobile communication device. Alternatively, bounce completion notifications can be generated by other methods.
例如，图16示出了先前购买者1104a将先前所购买产品16016退回到场所中的投放区域16014。在所示的例子中，退回产品16016可以在盒子或其他包装中退回。一旦她已经将产品16016投放在区域16014中，先前购买者1104a就可以使用移动通信设备18116来扫描产品16016上或产品的标签或包装上的条形码或QR码。设备18116可以使用所扫描的条形码或QR码来生成退回完成通知，并且可以将通知发送到场所的处理器。在一些实施方案中，退回完成通知可以包括退回产品16016的标识信息。For example, Figure 16 shows a previous purchaser 1104a returning a previously purchased product 16016 to a drop off area 16014 in the venue. In the example shown, return product 16016 may be returned in a box or other packaging. Once she has placed product 16016 in area 16014, previous purchaser 1104a can use mobile communications device 18116 to scan a barcode or QR code on product 16016 or on the product's label or packaging. Device 18116 may use the scanned barcode or QR code to generate a return completion notification and may send the notification to the venue's processor. In some embodiments, the return completion notification may include identification information of the returned product 16016.
所公开的实施方案可以包括更新数据结构以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所。例如，至少一个处理器可以基于退回完成通知来接收退回产品的标识符，并且可以使用退回产品的标识符来确认先前购买者向场所退回了正确的产品(例如，通过将退回产品的标识符与在意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知中指定的产品ID进行比较)。当确认先前所购买产品(例如，在意图退回先前所购买产品的通知中指定的产品)被退回到场所时，至少一个处理器可以更新数据结构中的先前所购买产品的信息以指示产品已经被退回。在先前所购买产品被退回到场所之后(以及可选地，在数据结构被更新以指示先前所购买产品被退回之后)，至少一个处理器可以执行一个或多个动作以完成退回，诸如向商店员工通知退回、偿还先前购买者、将退回产品添加到场所的库存中、对于退回产品重新激活警告机制。在下文讨论这些示例性动作。Disclosed embodiments may include updating a data structure to indicate that a previously purchased product was returned to the venue. For example, at least one processor may receive an identifier of the returned product based on the return completion notification and may use the identifier of the returned product to confirm that the previous purchaser returned the correct product to the venue (e.g., by combining the identifier of the returned product with Compare the product ID specified in the notification of intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue). When it is confirmed that a previously purchased product (e.g., a product specified in a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product) is returned to the venue, at least one processor may update the previously purchased product information in the data structure to indicate that the product has been return. After the previously purchased product is returned to the venue (and optionally, after the data structure is updated to indicate that the previously purchased product is returned), at least one processor may perform one or more actions to complete the return, such as reporting to the store Employees notify the return, reimburse the previous purchaser, add the returned product to the site's inventory, and reactivate the warning mechanism for the returned product. These example actions are discussed below.
所公开的实施方案可以包括发起退款交易。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成发起退款交易。如本文所使用的，退款交易可以包括从场所向先前购买者转移钱款或其他对价以交换先前所购买产品的退回。在一些实施方案中，先前购买者可以被退还先前所购买产品的购买价格的一部分或全部，或者替代性地被退还不同的金额。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于数据结构被更新以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所来发起退款交易。替代性地，可以基于不同的触发事件发起退款交易，所述不同的触发事件诸如将退回产品添加到场所的库存、由商店工作人员确认退回产品处于令人满意的退回条件、或从先前购买者的移动通信设备接收到退款授权。Disclosed embodiments may include initiating a refund transaction. For example, at least one processor may be configured to initiate a refund transaction. As used herein, a refund transaction may include the transfer of money or other consideration from a venue to a previous purchaser in exchange for the return of a previously purchased product. In some embodiments, previous purchasers may be refunded a portion or all of the purchase price of previously purchased products, or alternatively be refunded a different amount. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to initiate a refund transaction based on the data structure being updated to indicate that the previously purchased product was returned to the venue. Alternatively, a refund transaction may be initiated based on different triggering events, such as adding the returned product to the venue's inventory, confirmation by store staff that the returned product is in satisfactory return condition, or repurchase from a previous purchase. The refund authorization is received on the user's mobile communication device.
在一些实施方案中，可以从由场所或由子公司、母公司、附属公司、公司高管、所有者或与场所相关联的任何其他个人或实体持有的金融账户或工具(例如，银行账户或数字钱包)访问用于退款交易的资金。至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问这个账户或工具以取回用于完成退款交易的资金。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问先前购买者持有或以其他方式与之关联的金融账户或工具，以对先前购买者针对退回进行退款。先前购买者的金融账户或工具的例子可以包括由先前购买者持有的银行账户或数字钱包账户(例如，PayPal、Venmo、苹果支付或Zelle)、信用卡、借记卡、或由先前购买者持有的或先前购买者被授权用于退回先前所购买产品的任何其他工具。在一些实施方案中，一旦完成退款交易，至少一个处理器就可以被配置成更新数据结构以反映例如先前购买者已经针对退回产品被偿还并且先前购买者不再是退回产品的所有者。In some embodiments, funds may be collected from financial accounts or instruments (e.g., bank accounts or Digital Wallet) to access funds used for refund transactions. At least one processor may be configured to access this account or instrument to retrieve funds used to complete the refund transaction. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to access a financial account or instrument held by or otherwise associated with the prior purchaser to refund the prior purchaser for the return. Examples of financial accounts or instruments of previous purchasers may include bank accounts or digital wallet accounts (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, or Zelle), credit cards, debit cards, or There are or any other tools that the previous purchaser is authorized to use to return previously purchased products. In some embodiments, once a refund transaction is completed, at least one processor may be configured to update the data structure to reflect, for example, that the previous purchaser has been reimbursed for the returned product and that the prior purchaser is no longer the owner of the returned product.
作为例子，图17描绘了用于与一个或多个银行或数字钱包平台17320通信的广域网(WAN)17310。在一些实施方案中，执行退款交易的处理器可以被配置成访问与场所相关联的第一银行或数字钱包平台17320，以取回用于退款交易的资金。处理器可以将资金转移到与先前购买者相关联的第二银行或数字钱包平台17320。在一些实施方案中，当退款交易完成时，处理器可以向先前购买者(例如，向移动通信设备18116)发送通知。As an example, Figure 17 depicts a wide area network (WAN) 17310 for communicating with one or more banks or digital wallet platforms 17320. In some embodiments, the processor executing the refund transaction may be configured to access the first bank or digital wallet platform 17320 associated with the venue to retrieve funds for the refund transaction. The processor can transfer the funds to a second bank or digital wallet platform 17320 associated with the previous purchaser. In some embodiments, the processor may send a notification to the previous purchaser (eg, to mobile communication device 18116) when the refund transaction is completed.
所公开的实施方案可以包括延迟退款给先前购买者，直到场所处的员工已查验了被退回的先前所购买产品并认为先前所购买产品有资格退回。例如，一旦数据结构被更新以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所，至少一个处理器就可以向场所的一个或多个雇员的通信设备发送警告。通信设备可以包括例如台式计算机、膝上型计算机、销售点(POS)终端、手持式扫描仪、智能电话、蜂窝电话、平板电脑、寻呼机或被配置成从至少一个处理器接收信号并且向场所员工输出通知的任何其他设备。在一些实施方案中，发送给场所员工的通知可以包括退回产品的标识符(例如，产品ID或产品的样式、尺寸、颜色等描述)以及附加信息(诸如产品被退回到场所的时间和产品的位置信息)。在向场所员工发送通知时，至少一个处理器可以避免发起和/或完成退款交易(例如，可以延迟将退款金额转到先前购买者的银行账户或数字钱包)，直到退回产品被认为有资格退回。Disclosed embodiments may include delaying refunds to previous purchasers until an employee at the location has inspected the returned previously purchased product and deemed the previously purchased product eligible for return. For example, once the data structure is updated to indicate that a previously purchased product is returned to the location, at least one processor may send an alert to the communication device of one or more employees of the location. The communication device may include, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a point-of-sale (POS) terminal, a handheld scanner, a smartphone, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a pager, or be configured to receive signals from at least one processor and communicate to a venue employee Any other device that outputs notifications. In some embodiments, notifications sent to location employees may include an identifier of the returned product (e.g., a product ID or a description of the product's style, size, color, etc.) as well as additional information (such as the time the product was returned to the location and the product's location information). When sending notifications to venue staff, at least one processor may refrain from initiating and/or completing a refund transaction (e.g., may delay transferring the refund amount to the previous purchaser's bank account or digital wallet) until the returned product is deemed to have Eligibility Return.
在一些实施方案中，发送给场所员工的通知可以指示退回产品应由场所员工成员查验以确认产品处于足够好的状况以有资格退回。场所员工成员可以查验退回产品并且向至少一个处理器(例如，经由通信设备)发送退回产品(例如，先前所购买产品)是否有资格退回的指示。如果退回产品被指示为有资格退回，则可以完成退款交易，可以将退回产品添加到场所的库存，和/或可以将数据结构更新以包括退回产品被发现有资格退回的指示。另外地或替代性地，如果退回产品被指示为没有资格退回(例如，由于产品的不良状况)，至少一个处理器可以向与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送通知，可以向场所员工成员发送通知(例如，具有处置退回产品的指令的通知)，和/或可以更新数据结构以包括退回产品被发现没有资格退回的指示和/或以包括退回产品的状况的指示。In some embodiments, a notification sent to site staff may indicate that the returned product should be inspected by a member of the site staff to confirm that the product is in good enough condition to qualify for return. The location staff member may inspect the returned product and send an indication to at least one processor (eg, via a communications device) whether the returned product (eg, a previously purchased product) is eligible for return. If the returned product is indicated as eligible for return, the refund transaction may be completed, the returned product may be added to the facility's inventory, and/or the data structure may be updated to include an indication that the returned product was found to be eligible for return. Additionally or alternatively, if the returned product is indicated as not eligible for return (e.g., due to poor condition of the product), at least one processor may send a notification to a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser, which may be sent to a member of the venue staff A notification is sent (eg, a notification with instructions to handle the returned product), and/or the data structure may be updated to include an indication that the returned product was found to be ineligible for return and/or to include an indication of the condition of the returned product.
所公开的实施方案可以包括启用发起警报的能力。如本公开文本中其他地方所描述的，警报可以指由电子安全系统的部件生成的警告或通知，用于向另一个部件、另一个系统和/或人通知电子安全系统已经检测到企图的盗窃、未经授权地从场所拿取或移除产品、企图篡改产品使得产品不触发防盗警报(例如，企图从产品移除安全标签)、企图关闭电子安全系统或使电子安全系统无效(例如，通过传输强无线电信号以超出系统的至少一个接收器的能力)、或其他进入场所的入侵或场所受到的损失。在一些实施方案中，电子安全系统可以包括被配置成发起警报的固定基础设施；例子可以包括扬声器、灯和/或图形显示器，其被布置在场所内的战略位置处，诸如在入口和/或出口处、在结账柜台或自助结账服务机附近、在储存区域中、在拾取区域附近、或在投放区域附近。Disclosed embodiments may include enabling the ability to initiate alerts. As described elsewhere in this disclosure, an alert may refer to a warning or notification generated by a component of an electronic security system to notify another component, another system, and/or a person that the electronic security system has detected an attempted theft. , taking or removing a product from the premises without authorization, attempting to tamper with the product so that the product does not trigger an anti-theft alarm (e.g., attempting to remove a security tag from the product), attempting to shut down or disable an electronic security system (e.g., by transmission of radio signals so strong as to exceed the capabilities of at least one receiver of the system), or other intrusion into the premises or damage to the premises. In some embodiments, electronic security systems may include fixed infrastructure configured to initiate alarms; examples may include speakers, lights, and/or graphic displays placed at strategic locations within the premises, such as at entrances and/or At an exit, near a checkout counter or self-checkout kiosk, in a storage area, near a pick-up area, or near a drop-off area.
至少一个处理器可以被配置成当特定事件发生时通过致使激活警报发起部件而致使发起警报。至少一个处理器还可以被配置成禁用警报发起部件发起警报的能力。因此，警报发起部件可以被控制成当特定事件发生时(例如，当带标签的产品被携带通过EAS门时)放弃发起警报，甚至当事件将在其他方面触发警报时也是如此。如本文所使用的，启用发起警报的能力可以包括控制警报发起部件从禁用状态(例如，当触发事件发生时，警报发起部件放弃发起警报的状态)改变到启用状态(例如，当触发事件发生时，警报发起部件发起警报的状态)。另外地或替代性地，启用发起警报的能力可以包括控制警报发起部件从第一启用状态改变到不同的第二启用状态，其中警报的至少一个特性被改变。At least one processor may be configured to cause an alarm to be initiated when a particular event occurs by causing activation of the alarm initiation component. At least one processor may also be configured to disable the ability of the alarm initiating component to initiate an alarm. Thus, the alarm initiating component can be controlled to forego initiating an alarm when a specific event occurs (eg, when a tagged product is carried through an EAS gate), even when the event would otherwise trigger an alarm. As used herein, enabling the ability to initiate an alarm may include controlling an alarm-initiating component to change from a disabled state (e.g., a state in which the alarm-initiating component gives up initiating an alarm when a triggering event occurs) to an enabled state (e.g., when a triggering event occurs , the state in which the alarm initiating component initiates an alarm). Additionally or alternatively, enabling the ability to initiate an alarm may include controlling the alarm initiating component to change from a first enabled state to a different second enabled state in which at least one characteristic of the alarm is changed.
所公开的实施方案可以包括当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，启用发起警报的能力。在所公开的实施方案中，启用发起警报的能力可以在更新数据结构以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所时发生(例如，可以在更新数据结构之后发生或基于更新数据结构而发生)。例如，在数据结构更新之前，当接收器检测到先前所购买产品(或其相关联的无线传输标签)通过场所的EAS门时，电子安全系统的警报发起部件可以被控制为放弃发起警报。这可以允许先前购买者将产品带入场所以进行退回交易，而不发起警报。然而，在数据结构更新之后，当电子安全系统的至少一个接收器检测到与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签(例如，接收来自特定标签的传输)时，至少一个处理器可以控制警报发起部件发起警报。作为非限制性例子，当确定特定标签在距EAS门的基座之间的空间一米内时，可以发起警报。因此，当盗窃者企图偷窃先前所购买产品或者当另一顾客无意地试图带着先前所购买产品而不是他们已经购买的不同产品(例如，在产品混淆的情况下)离开场所时，可以发起警报。Disclosed embodiments may include enabling the ability to initiate an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to an EAS gate. In disclosed embodiments, enabling the ability to initiate an alert may occur when a data structure is updated to indicate that a previously purchased product is returned to the venue (eg, may occur after or based on updating the data structure). For example, before the data structure is updated, the alarm-initiating component of the electronic security system may be controlled to forego initiating an alarm when the receiver detects that a previously purchased product (or its associated wireless transmission tag) passes through the venue's EAS door. This could allow a previous purchaser to bring product into the venue for a return transaction without initiating an alert. However, after the data structure is updated, when at least one receiver of the electronic security system detects a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to the EAS door (e.g., receives a transmission from the specific tag), the at least one processor The alarm initiating component can be controlled to initiate an alarm. As a non-limiting example, an alarm may be initiated when a specific tag is determined to be within one meter of the space between the bases of the EAS door. Therefore, an alarm can be initiated when a thief attempts to steal a previously purchased product or when another customer inadvertently attempts to leave the premises with a previously purchased product instead of a different product they have purchased (e.g., in the case of product mix-up) .
作为例子，图16描绘了先前购买者1104a在指定投放区域16014处留下先前所购买产品16016，并且使用移动通信设备(例如，图18的设备18116)来传输先前所购买产品16016被退回到场所的通知。例如，先前购买者1104a可以使用移动通信设备来扫描在先前所购买产品16016上和/或装有产品的包装上的条形码或其他机器可读码。基于所扫描的信息，移动通信设备可以生成先前所购买产品被退回的通知并且将所述通知传输到场所的处理器(例如，图18的处理器18114)。As an example, Figure 16 depicts a previous purchaser 1104a leaving a previously purchased product 16016 at a designated drop off area 16014 and using a mobile communications device (eg, device 18116 of Figure 18) to transmit the previously purchased product 16016 being returned to the venue. announcement of. For example, the previous purchaser 1104a may use the mobile communication device to scan a barcode or other machine-readable code on the previously purchased product 16016 and/or on the packaging containing the product. Based on the scanned information, the mobile communications device may generate a notification that a previously purchased product was returned and transmit the notification to the venue's processor (eg, processor 18114 of Figure 18).
在接收通知之前，当产品16016被检测到接近于EAS门1110、1112时，处理器可以禁用警报器1114发出声音的能力；这可以允许先前购买者1104a顺利地将产品16016带入场所。基于从设备18116接收到通知，处理器可以更新数据结构(例如，数据结构18122和/或购买交易记录18124)以指示先前所购买产品16016被退回到场所。当产品16016被检测到接近于EAS门1110、1112时，处理器也可以启用警报器1114发出声音的能力。因此，当产品16016被带到接近EAS门1110、1112(例如，在门的一米内)时，接收器11300可以接收从产品的无线传输标签传输的信号。处理器可以在数据结构中对标签的唯一标签ID执行查找，并且确定标签与未被授权离开场所的产品相关联。因此，处理器可以致使激活警报器1114以发信号通知并防止对先前所购买产品16016的企图盗窃。Prior to receiving the notification, the processor may disable the ability of the alarm 1114 to sound when the product 16016 is detected close to the EAS door 1110, 1112; this may allow the previous purchaser 1104a to successfully bring the product 16016 into the venue. Based on receiving the notification from the device 18116, the processor may update the data structure (eg, data structure 18122 and/or purchase transaction record 18124) to indicate that the previously purchased product 16016 was returned to the venue. The processor may also enable the ability of the siren 1114 to sound when the product 16016 is detected close to the EAS door 1110, 1112. Thus, when a product 16016 is brought close to an EAS door 1110, 1112 (eg, within one meter of the door), the receiver 11300 can receive the signal transmitted from the product's wireless transmission tag. The processor may perform a lookup of the tag's unique tag ID in the data structure and determine that the tag is associated with a product that is not authorized to leave the premises. Accordingly, the processor may cause the alarm 1114 to be activated to signal and prevent attempted theft of the previously purchased product 16016 .
在所公开的实施方案中，数据结构可以被配置成在接收到意图退回先前所购买产品的通知之前保持以下指示：当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。如本文所使用的，所述指示可以包括用于使至少一个处理器在特定触发事件发生时执行特定动作的指令。例如，在从移动通信设备接收到意图退回先前所购买产品的通知之前，数据结构可以包括指示或指令，所述指示或指令用于使至少一个处理器控制场所中的警报发起部件，以便当先前所购买产品(或产品的标签)被检测到接近于EAS门时放弃发起警报。这可以允许先前购买者将产品带入场所，而不触发警报。在所公开的实施方案中，启用发起警报的能力可以包括：当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，更新数据结构以启用警报的发起。例如，在数据结构被更新以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所之后，至少一个处理器可以通过改变或移除前述指示而进一步更新数据结构，从而禁用发起警报的能力。替代地，数据结构可以被更新以包括指示，所述指示启用警报的发起(例如，当先前所购买产品(或产品的标签)被检测到接近于EAS门时，指示至少一个处理器引起警报发起部件的激活)。In the disclosed embodiments, the data structure may be configured to maintain an indication prior to receipt of a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product: Disables the ability to initiate alerts when a specific tag is transmitted. As used herein, the instructions may include instructions for causing at least one processor to perform specific actions upon the occurrence of a specific triggering event. For example, prior to receiving a notification from the mobile communications device of an intention to return a previously purchased product, the data structure may include instructions or instructions for causing at least one processor to control an alarm initiating component in the premises so that when the previously purchased product Give up the alarm when the purchased product (or the product's label) is detected to be close to the EAS door. This could allow previous purchasers to bring products into the premises without triggering an alarm. In disclosed embodiments, enabling the ability to initiate an alert may include updating a data structure to enable an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a particular tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to the EAS gate. Initiate. For example, after the data structure is updated to indicate that a previously purchased product was returned to the venue, at least one processor may further update the data structure by changing or removing the aforementioned indication, thereby disabling the ability to initiate an alert. Alternatively, the data structure may be updated to include an indication that enables the initiation of an alert (e.g., instructs at least one processor to cause an alert to initiate when a previously purchased product (or a label for a product) is detected in proximity to the EAS gate component activation).
所公开的实施方案可以包括向与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送指示先前所购买产品的退回过程完成的通知。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于数据结构被更新以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所、基于退款交易的完成、基于从场所员工接收到先前所购买产品有资格退回的确认、或基于一些其他的触发事件，将指示先前所购买产品的退回过程完成的通知(在下文中被称为“退回完成通知”)发送到移动通信设备。Disclosed embodiments may include sending a notification to a mobile communications device associated with a previous purchaser indicating completion of a return process for a previously purchased product. For example, at least one processor may be configured to be updated based on the data structure to indicate that a previously purchased product is returned to the venue, based on completion of a refund transaction, based on receipt of confirmation from a venue employee that a previously purchased product is eligible for return, or Based on some other triggering event, a notification indicating completion of the return process of the previously purchased product (hereinafter referred to as "return completion notification") is sent to the mobile communication device.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收被退回的先前所购买产品被另一个购买者重新购买的指示。例如，至少一个处理器可以基于针对其他购买者购买退回产品而发起的电子购买交易、基于产品在其退回到的商店中被购买的信息、退回产品的商店外产品购买、或通过向至少一个处理器通知退回产品被重新购买的其他手段来接收退回产品被重新购买的指示。在一些实施方案中，一旦接收到被退回的先前所购买产品被另一个购买者重新购买的指示，至少一个处理器就可以在检测到与被退回的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签时禁用发起警报的能力。因此，其他购买者可以带着产品离开场所而不发起警报。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving an indication that a previously purchased product that was returned is being repurchased by another purchaser. For example, at least one processor may be based on an electronic purchase transaction initiated against another purchaser for a returned product, based on information that the product was purchased at the store to which it was returned, an out-of-store product purchase of the returned product, or by sending a request to at least one processor. Other means of receiving notification that the returned product has been repurchased. In some embodiments, upon receiving an indication that the returned previously purchased product was repurchased by another purchaser, at least one processor may disable upon detection of a particular tag associated with the returned previously purchased product. Ability to initiate alerts. Therefore, other buyers can leave the premises with the product without initiating an alarm.
所公开的实施方案可以包括基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置，由此确定与EAS门的标签接近度。在一些实施方案中，标签与EAS门的接近度可以由至少一个处理器基于EAS门信号的传输范围来确定，在所述传输范围之外，特定标签将不接收EAS门信号并且因此将不进行传输。Disclosed embodiments may include determining tag location at the time of transmission based on transmissions received by at least one receiver, thereby determining tag proximity to the EAS gate. In some embodiments, a tag's proximity to an EAS gate may be determined by at least one processor based on the transmission range of the EAS gate signal, outside of which a particular tag will not receive the EAS gate signal and therefore will not proceed transmission.
通过举例的方式，图13A和图13C描绘了悬挂在货架上的产品13210，所述货架可以包含被配置成传输ID信号13102的无线传输标签1100。由于标签1100接近于接收器11300c(参见图13C)，由接收器11300c接收到的信号13102的功率水平可以高于由位于远离标签1100的其他接收器(例如，接收器11300b和11300d)接收到的信号13102的功率水平。因此，电子安全系统的至少一个处理器可以确定产品13210位于图13C的货架上或其附近，因为接收器11300c和货架的位置可以预先已知。By way of example, FIGS. 13A and 13C depict products 13210 hanging on shelves that may contain wireless transmitting tags 1100 configured to transmit ID signals 13102 . Due to the proximity of tag 1100 to receiver 11300c (see Figure 13C), the power level of signal 13102 received by receiver 11300c may be higher than that received by other receivers located further away from tag 1100 (eg, receivers 11300b and 11300d) The power level of signal 13102. Therefore, at least one processor of the electronic security system can determine that product 13210 is located on or near the shelf of Figure 13C because the locations of receiver 11300c and the shelf can be known in advance.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收位置标识信息。位置标识信息可以指示先前购买者、移动通信设备或另一个主体的位置。例如，位置标识信息可以包括GPS数据、设备跟踪程序(例如，苹果的“查找我的iPhone”、谷歌的“查找我的设备”以及三星的“查找我的移动产品”)的数据、从移动通信设备传输到与场所和/或至少一个处理器相关联的接收器的数据、或指示移动通信设备的位置的其他数据。所公开的实施方案可以包括基于位置标识信息确定与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备位于场所内。例如，设备的位置可以被确定并且与场所的已知位置进行比较。可以基于所述比较来确定移动通信设备是否位于场所内。在一些实施方案中，仅在移动通信设备被确定处于场所内的情况下，至少一个处理器可以授权先前所购买产品的退回。另外地或替代性地，至少一个处理器可以将退回交易仅可以在场所内完成的通知发送给移动通信设备，或者如果移动通信设备被确定位于场所外部，则阻止移动通信设备访问网站或应用的可以发起退回交易的部分。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving location identification information. The location identification information may indicate the location of a previous purchaser, the mobile communications device, or another subject. For example, location identification information may include GPS data, data from device tracking programs (e.g., Apple's Find My iPhone, Google's Find My Device, and Samsung's Find My Mobile products), data from mobile communications Data transmitted by the device to a receiver associated with the location and/or at least one processor, or other data indicating the location of the mobile communications device. Disclosed embodiments may include determining that a mobile communications device associated with a previous purchaser is located within a venue based on location identification information. For example, the location of the device can be determined and compared to known locations of the venue. Whether the mobile communications device is located within the premises may be determined based on the comparison. In some embodiments, at least one processor may authorize the return of previously purchased products only if the mobile communications device is determined to be on-premises. Additionally or alternatively, at least one processor may send a notification to the mobile communications device that the return transaction may only be completed within the venue, or prevent the mobile communications device from accessing the website or application if the mobile communications device is determined to be located outside the venue. The part where a return transaction can be initiated.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个接收器可以被配置成接收反映EAS门的感测的标签信号；标签信号可以由无线传输标签来传输。如本文所使用的，标签信号可以包括由无线传输标签中的一个无线传输标签发送的传输。标签信号可以包括例如标签的标识信息(例如，标签的唯一标签ID)和/或传输的触发事件的指示。例如，并且如上文所讨论的，EAS门可以被设置在场所的入口或出口附近和/或在另一个指定的位置处，并且可以被配置成将激活信号(例如，EAS信号)传输到接近于EAS门的无线传输标签，诸如与产品或与被携带通过EAS门的包装相关联的标签。响应于从EAS门感测到(例如，检测到或接收到)EAS信号，无线传输标签可以被配置成在与EAS信号不同的频段中输出信号。至少一个接收器可以被配置成接收由标签传输的信号(即，反映由无线传输标签对EAS门的感测的标签信号)。然而，EAS门可以不检测由标签传输的信号，因为所述信号可以在由EAS门检测的频率范围之外。特定标签可以进一步被配置成在传输中包括关于标签的状态的信息，例如指示标签正在响应于从EAS门接收EAS信号而传输信号的信息。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one receiver may be configured to receive a tag signal reflecting sensing of the EAS gate; the tag signal may be transmitted by a wirelessly transmitting tag. As used herein, a tag signal may include a transmission sent by one of the wireless transmitting tags. The tag signal may include, for example, identification information of the tag (eg, the tag's unique tag ID) and/or an indication of a triggering event for the transmission. For example, and as discussed above, an EAS door may be positioned near an entrance or exit to a venue and/or at another designated location, and may be configured to transmit an activation signal (e.g., an EAS signal) to a location close to The EAS door wirelessly transmits tags, such as tags associated with the product or with the packaging being carried through the EAS door. In response to sensing (eg, detecting or receiving) an EAS signal from the EAS gate, the wireless transmitting tag may be configured to output a signal in a different frequency band than the EAS signal. At least one receiver may be configured to receive signals transmitted by the tag (ie, tag signals reflecting sensing of the EAS gate by the wirelessly transmitted tag). However, the EAS gate may not detect the signal transmitted by the tag because the signal may be outside the frequency range detected by the EAS gate. A particular tag may further be configured to include in the transmission information regarding the status of the tag, such as information indicating that the tag is transmitting a signal in response to receiving an EAS signal from an EAS gate.
在所公开的实施方案中，与先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签可以被配置成在感测到EAS门时(例如，在从EAS门接收EAS信号时)立即进行传输。另外地或替代性地，特定标签可以被配置成在感测到EAS门时传输指示特定标签接近于EAS门的ID传输。例如，在特定标签从EAS门接收EAS信号之后，特定标签可以被配置成传输指示标签的唯一标签ID的信号。因此，可以基于由传输的信号指定的标签ID确定信号的源。在一些实施方案中，由特定标签基于感测到EAS门而传输的信号可以不同于由特定标签基于其他触发事件而传输的信号。例如，所传输的信号在至少一个方面中可以不同，诸如发射功率水平、相位、持续时间、频率、开始传输之前的延迟时段的长度和/或信号内包含的信息。在一些实施方案中，特定标签可以仅在标签足够接近EAS门以检测EAS信号并被其触发时感测EAS门。因此，由特定标签基于感测到EAS门而传输的信号可以指示特定标签与EAS门的接近度，因为所述信号不同于由特定标签在其他情况下传输的信号。In disclosed embodiments, specific tags associated with previously purchased products may be configured to transmit immediately upon sensing the EAS gate (eg, upon receiving an EAS signal from the EAS gate). Additionally or alternatively, the particular tag may be configured to transmit an ID transmission indicating the proximity of the particular tag to the EAS gate when the EAS gate is sensed. For example, after the particular tag receives an EAS signal from the EAS gate, the particular tag may be configured to transmit a signal indicative of the tag's unique tag ID. Therefore, the source of the signal can be determined based on the tag ID specified by the transmitted signal. In some embodiments, signals transmitted by a particular tag based on sensing an EAS gate may be different from signals transmitted by a particular tag based on other triggering events. For example, the transmitted signals may differ in at least one aspect, such as transmit power level, phase, duration, frequency, length of delay period before initiating transmission, and/or information contained within the signal. In some embodiments, a particular tag may only sense the EAS gate when the tag is close enough to the EAS gate to detect the EAS signal and be triggered by it. Thus, a signal transmitted by a particular tag based on sensing an EAS gate may be indicative of the particular tag's proximity to the EAS gate because the signal is different from a signal otherwise transmitted by the particular tag.
例如，图1描绘了购买者1104正带着具有第一无线传输标签1100a的第一产品1106并且还带着具有第二无线传输标签1100b的第二产品1122通过EAS门1110、1112离开。标签1100a和1100b可以被配置成基于接收EAS信号1118来感测EAS门1110、1112。作为响应，标签1100a和1100b可以立即传输标签ID信号1102a和1102b，而不包括开始传输之前的延迟时段。电子安全系统的接收器1124可以检测标签ID信号1102a和1102b，并且电子安全系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004或图18的处理器18114)可以确定所检测到的ID信号1102a和1102b是否与被授权通过EAS门1110、1112的产品相关联。在一些实施方案中，处理器可以致使激活警告机制(诸如可听警告或闪光)以发信号通知产品1106和1122未被授权离开场所。然而，如果产品1106和1122被授权离开场所，则处理器可以在购买者1104带着产品通过EAS门时禁用警告机制的激活。For example, FIG. 1 depicts a buyer 1104 exiting through EAS gates 1110, 1112 with a first product 1106 having a first wireless transmission tag 1100a and also carrying a second product 1122 with a second wireless transmission tag 1100b. Tags 1100a and 1100b may be configured to sense EAS gates 1110 , 1112 based on receiving EAS signals 1118 . In response, tags 1100a and 1100b may immediately transmit tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b without including a delay period before commencing transmission. Receiver 1124 of the electronic security system can detect tag ID signals 1102a and 1102b, and a processor of the electronic security system (eg, processor 11004 of Figure 11 or processor 18114 of Figure 18) can determine that the detected ID signals 1102a and 1102b Whether 1102b is associated with a product authorized to pass through EAS gates 1110, 1112. In some embodiments, the processor may cause activation of a warning mechanism (such as an audible warning or flashing light) to signal that products 1106 and 1122 are not authorized to leave the premises. However, if products 1106 and 1122 are authorized to leave the premises, the processor may disable activation of the warning mechanism when purchaser 1104 carries the products through the EAS gate.
所公开的实施方案可以涉及用于无线购买在商店窗口或其他展示区域中展示的货品的系统、方法和计算机可读介质。例如，当预期顾客经过商店的展示窗口时，她可以在展示中看到她想要购买的或者她想要接收其附加信息(诸如物品的价格、尺寸和护理说明)的物品。在所公开的实施方案中，特定展示窗口可以通过检测顾客的移动设备(例如，蜂窝电话、智能电话或可穿戴计算设备)的位置以及确定哪个展示窗口在设备的附近来进行识别。在所公开的实施方案中，当前在窗口中展示的物品列表(诸如具有各个物品的图像和/或文本描述)可以被中继到顾客的设备。顾客可以使用她的设备来选择和购买期望的物品，并且还可以为每个购买的物品选择递送方法。在所公开的实施方案中，可以接收顾客的订单，可以完成购买交易，并且可以针对要经由顾客指定的一种或多种递送方法递送的购买物品做出布置。Disclosed embodiments may relate to systems, methods, and computer-readable media for wireless purchasing of items displayed in a store window or other display area. For example, when a prospective customer passes by a store's display window, she may see items on display that she wants to purchase or for which she wants to receive additional information, such as the item's price, size, and care instructions. In the disclosed embodiments, a particular display window may be identified by detecting the location of a customer's mobile device (eg, a cell phone, smartphone, or wearable computing device) and determining which display window is in proximity to the device. In disclosed embodiments, a list of items currently displayed in the window (such as with images and/or textual descriptions of individual items) may be relayed to the customer's device. The customer can use her device to select and purchase the desired items and can also choose the delivery method for each purchased item. In the disclosed embodiments, a customer's order may be received, a purchase transaction may be completed, and placement may be made for the purchase item to be delivered via one or more delivery methods specified by the customer.
有利地，所公开的实施方案可以通过使得顾客能够获得所展示物品的信息，并且即使在商店关闭时以及即使在顾客不希望或没有足够的时间进入商店的情况下也能够完成购买来改善顾客的购物体验。此外，所公开的实施方案可以提供对传统线上购物更用户友好的替代方案，因为可以基于顾客的位置快速地识别正在展示的特定物品并且可以将那些物品的信息发送到顾客的设备。因此，顾客可以避免在商店的网站上浏览长长的物品列表并进行搜索以找到特定物品。Advantageously, the disclosed embodiments may improve customer experience by enabling customers to obtain information about displayed items and complete purchases even when the store is closed and even in situations where the customer does not wish to or does not have sufficient time to enter the store. shopping experience. Additionally, the disclosed embodiments may provide a more user-friendly alternative to traditional online shopping because specific items on display can be quickly identified based on the customer's location and information about those items can be sent to the customer's device. Therefore, customers can avoid browsing long listings on the store's website and searching to find a specific item.
进一步地，所公开的实施方案对于零售商也可以是有益的，因为实施方案可以允许零售商完成向商店外的顾客的销售并且甚至在商店关闭时也销售物品。此外，所公开的实施方案可以允许零售商从没有直接附属于商店的显示中产生销售收入，诸如临时位置中的“弹出式展示”(例如，跳蚤市场、音乐会和集会处的临时展示)，以及靠近但不紧邻零售商店的高流量区域中的展示(例如，在购物中心的另一区域中或在远离商店几个街区的主要街道或大道上)。Further, the disclosed embodiments may also be beneficial to retailers because embodiments may allow retailers to complete sales to customers outside the store and sell items even when the store is closed. Additionally, the disclosed embodiments may allow retailers to generate sales revenue from displays that are not directly affiliated with a store, such as "pop-up displays" in temporary locations (e.g., temporary displays at flea markets, concerts, and conventions), and displays in high-traffic areas close to, but not immediately adjacent to, a retail store (for example, in another area of a shopping center or on a main street or avenue a few blocks away from the store).
所公开的实施方案可以包括无线交易和无线交易操作。如本文所使用的，交易可以包括两方或更多方之间的协定或布置，以交换个人财产或实际财产用于货币支付或其他对价。例如，交易可以包括商业卖方(诸如商店或零售场所)与买方之间的交换，其中作为货币支付的交换，买方购买、租借、租赁、借用或以其他方式从卖方获取一个或多个物品。在一些实施方案中，无线交易可以包括如上文定义的全部或部分地经由无线连接执行的交易。例如，买方和卖方可以使用通过无线连接(诸如Wi-Fi、蓝牙、近场通信(NFC)、蜂窝网络、ZigBee、Z波无线协议、LAN或WAN网络、或用于在各方之间传输数据的任何其他合适的无线介质)连接的电子设备执行无线交易。如本文所使用的，无线交易操作可以包括用于发起、执行或完成无线交易的任何动作、实例、步骤、过程或者运作方式。Disclosed embodiments may include wireless transactions and wireless transaction operations. As used herein, a transaction may include an agreement or arrangement between two or more parties to exchange personal or actual property for monetary payment or other consideration. For example, a transaction may include an exchange between a commercial seller (such as a store or retail establishment) and a buyer in which the buyer purchases, rents, leases, borrows, or otherwise acquires one or more items from the seller in exchange for a monetary payment. In some embodiments, wireless transactions may include transactions as defined above that are performed in whole or in part via a wireless connection. For example, buyers and sellers may use wireless connections such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), cellular networks, ZigBee, Z-Wave wireless protocols, LAN or WAN networks, or for transmitting data between the parties. or any other suitable wireless medium) to perform wireless transactions. As used herein, wireless transaction operations may include any action, instance, step, process or operation for initiating, performing or completing a wireless transaction.
所公开的实施方案可以包括用于进行无线交易通信的系统。在一些实施方案中，用于进行无线交易通信的系统可以包括使得能够在无线交易的各方之间交换信息和/或数据的任何类型的无线联网布置。例如，用于进行无线交易通信的系统可以包括使得能够在卖方与买方之间进行无线通信的布置，诸如关于供销售的产品、进行购买的报价、报价接受和钱款转移的通信。Disclosed embodiments may include systems for wireless transaction communications. In some embodiments, a system for conducting wireless transaction communications may include any type of wireless networking arrangement that enables the exchange of information and/or data between parties to a wireless transaction. For example, a system for wireless transaction communications may include arrangements that enable wireless communications between a seller and a buyer, such as communications regarding products for sale, offers to make purchases, acceptance of offers, and transfers of money.
作为非限制性例子，图18描绘了被配置用于进行无线交易通信的系统18110。如本公开文本中其他地方详细讨论的，系统18110可以包括使得能够在系统的元件(诸如一个或多个处理器18114和移动通信设备18116)之间交换数据和/或信息的网络18112。在一些实施方案中，网络18112可以包括被配置用于交换数据的任何类型的无线计算机联网布置。系统18110还可以包括可以与卖方(诸如零售商店)相关联的至少一个处理器18114。例如，处理器18114可以包括台式计算机、膝上型计算机、服务器、虚拟服务器、销售点(POS)终端、手持式扫描仪、智能电话、平板电脑、寻呼机或任何其他无线通信设备。处理器18114可以位于零售场所内和/或可以由与零售场所相关联的雇员和其他个人用于商业目的，包括执行无线交易操作。系统18110还可以包括移动通信设备18116，诸如蜂窝电话、智能电话、平板电脑、台式计算机、膝上型计算机、PDA、手持式扫描仪、可穿戴设备或其他移动计算设备。在一些实施方案中，设备18116可以与零售场所的买方或顾客相关联。在一些实施方案中，买方和卖方可以相应地使用可以经由网络18112进行无线通信的移动通信设备18116和处理器18114来执行无线交易。As a non-limiting example, Figure 18 depicts a system 18110 configured for wireless transaction communications. As discussed in detail elsewhere in this disclosure, system 18110 may include a network 18112 that enables the exchange of data and/or information between elements of the system, such as one or more processors 18114 and mobile communications devices 18116. In some embodiments, network 18112 may include any type of wireless computer networking arrangement configured for exchanging data. System 18110 may also include at least one processor 18114 that may be associated with a seller, such as a retail store. For example, processor 18114 may include a desktop computer, laptop computer, server, virtual server, point of sale (POS) terminal, handheld scanner, smartphone, tablet, pager, or any other wireless communication device. The processor 18114 may be located within a retail location and/or may be used by employees and other individuals associated with the retail location for business purposes, including performing wireless transaction operations. System 18110 may also include a mobile communication device 18116, such as a cellular phone, smartphone, tablet, desktop computer, laptop computer, PDA, handheld scanner, wearable device, or other mobile computing device. In some embodiments, device 18116 may be associated with a buyer or customer of a retail location. In some embodiments, buyers and sellers may perform wireless transactions, respectively, using mobile communications devices 18116 and processors 18114 that may communicate wirelessly via network 18112.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方定义的至少一个处理器。作为非限制性例子，图18描绘了至少一个处理器18114。所公开的实施方案可以包括和/或访问至少一个数据结构。如本文所使用的，数据结构可以包括以计算机可访问形式保存在可读且可写的介质上的有序或无序信息存储。被称为请求者的人、实体或设备可能需要提供某种形式的凭证、登录、证书或标识，以便确定请求者是否被授权访问存储在数据结构中的信息。这样的授权数据对于整个数据结构可以是通用的，或者它可以对于每个和每一条存储信息是特定的，或者对于整个数据结构的特定特性和属性是特定的，但是对于其他特定特性和属性不是特定的。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one processor as defined elsewhere in this disclosure. As a non-limiting example, FIG. 18 depicts at least one processor 18114. Disclosed embodiments may include and/or access at least one data structure. As used herein, a data structure may include an ordered or unordered storage of information in a computer-accessible form on a readable and writable medium. A person, entity, or device known as a requester may be required to provide some form of credentials, login, certificate, or identification in order to determine whether the requestor is authorized to access the information stored in the data structure. Such authorization data may be common to the entire data structure, or it may be specific to each and every piece of stored information, or specific to certain features and attributes of the entire data structure, but not to other specific features and attributes. specific.
在一些实施方案中，所公开的系统的至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问包含在至少一个数据结构中的数据。另外地，至少一个处理器可以被配置成从至少一个数据结构中搜索、检索、添加、修改、覆写和/或移除数据。作为非限制性例子，至少一个数据结构可以包括图18所描绘的可以由一个或多个处理器18114访问的数据结构18122。In some embodiments, at least one processor of the disclosed system may be configured to access data contained in at least one data structure. Additionally, at least one processor may be configured to search, retrieve, add, modify, overwrite and/or remove data from at least one data structure. As a non-limiting example, at least one data structure may include data structure 18122 depicted in FIG. 18 that may be accessed by one or more processors 18114.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个数据结构可以包含多个展示区域的标识。如本文所使用的，展示区域可以包括其中向公众呈现供销售的产品以便促进产品和/或销售产品的场所的任何区、区间、房间或区域。在一些实施方案中，展示区域可以包括布置产品以供预期顾客和其他公众成员查看的结构或固定装置；展示区域中的结构或固定装置的一些例子可以包括机柜、货架、架子、篮子、箱、窗口展示、展示箱或桌子。另外地或替代性地，此类结构或固定装置可以包括人体模型或展示玩偶或被设计成模仿所展示物品在现实生活中的使用的任何其他类似结构。所公开的实施方案可以包括多个展示区域，即，用于向公众呈现供销售的产品的多个区或区域。在一些实施方案中，多个展示区域可以被包括在同一商店或建筑物内。另外地或替代性地，多个展示区域可以由同一个体或实体(例如，由同一公司)拥有或使用。多个展示区域可以位于同一地理区域或不同地理区域(例如，在不同的商店或建筑物中、在不同的地址处、在不同的城市或国家中等)。在一些实施方案中，至少一个数据结构可以包含展示区域的附加信息，诸如每个展示区域的位置信息。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one data structure may contain identifications of multiple display areas. As used herein, a display area may include any section, section, room or area of a venue where products are presented for sale to the public for the purpose of promoting the products and/or selling the products. In some embodiments, a display area may include structures or fixtures that arrange products for viewing by prospective customers and other members of the public; some examples of structures or fixtures in a display area may include cabinets, shelves, racks, baskets, bins, Window display, display box or table. Additionally or alternatively, such structures or fixtures may include mannequins or display dolls or any other similar structure designed to simulate real-life use of the displayed items. The disclosed embodiments may include multiple display areas, ie, multiple areas or areas for presenting products for sale to the public. In some embodiments, multiple display areas may be included within the same store or building. Additionally or alternatively, multiple display areas may be owned or used by the same individual or entity (eg, by the same company). Multiple display areas may be located in the same geographic area or in different geographic areas (eg, in different stores or buildings, at different addresses, in different cities or countries, etc.). In some embodiments, at least one data structure may contain additional information for the display areas, such as location information for each display area.
作为非限制性例子，图13A示出了货架13240和架子13250，这两者可以被认为是展示区域，因为货架13240和架子13250两者均可以以鼓励顾客查看和购买产品的方式展示产品(在本例子中，服装)。作为另一个非限制性例子，图21描绘了包括两个展示区域21012和21014的零售场所21010，所述两个展示区域中的每个展示区域可以展示由场所提供以供销售的一个或多个物品。在图21所示的例子中，展示区域21012和21014可以被配置为窗口展示。还如图16所展示的，人体模型16022可以是展示区域。As a non-limiting example, Figure 13A shows shelf 13240 and shelf 13250, both of which may be considered display areas, as both shelf 13240 and shelf 13250 may display products in a manner that encourages customers to view and purchase the products (in In this case, clothing). As another non-limiting example, Figure 21 depicts a retail location 21010 that includes two display areas 21012 and 21014, each of which may display one or more items provided for sale by the location. thing. In the example shown in Figure 21, presentation areas 21012 and 21014 may be configured as window presentations. As also shown in Figure 16, human body model 16022 may be a display area.
如上所述，至少一个数据结构可以包含多个展示区域的标识。在一些实施方案中，展示区域的标识(在下文中被称为“展示区域ID”)可以包括被指派给或以其他方式与展示区域中的特定一个展示区域相关联的数据，所述数据对于特定展示区域是唯一的并且为用户和/或设备标识展示区域。唯一展示区域ID可以包括数字、字母、字符、码、字符串或可以允许标识除其他多个展示区域之外的对应展示区域的其他数据形式。在一些实施方案中，每个展示区域ID对于特定展示区域可以是唯一的，并且该特定展示区域可以仅具有一个展示区域ID。替代性地，同一展示区域可以具有多个唯一展示区域ID。展示区域ID的例子可以包括序列号、零件号、条形码、QR码、EPC和对特定展示区域唯一的其他数据。另外地或替代性地，展示区域ID可以包括其位置的标识，诸如街道地址、GPS坐标或与购物中心的室内地图有关的坐标。一旦给定展示区域与特定展示区域ID之间的配对或关联被建立，所述配对或关联就可以被存储在至少一个数据结构中。As mentioned above, at least one data structure may contain identifications of multiple display areas. In some embodiments, an identification of a display area (hereinafter referred to as a "display area ID") may include data assigned to or otherwise associated with a particular one of the display areas, the data being specific to a particular one of the display areas. Display areas are unique and identify the display area to the user and/or device. The unique display area ID may include numbers, letters, characters, codes, strings, or other data forms that may allow identification of the corresponding display area in addition to other multiple display areas. In some implementations, each display area ID may be unique to a particular display area, and the particular display area may have only one display area ID. Alternatively, the same display area can have multiple unique display area IDs. Examples of display area IDs may include serial numbers, part numbers, barcodes, QR codes, EPCs, and other data that are unique to a particular display area. Additionally or alternatively, the display area ID may include an identification of its location, such as a street address, GPS coordinates, or coordinates related to an indoor map of the shopping mall. Once a pairing or association between a given display area and a particular display area ID is established, the pairing or association may be stored in at least one data structure.
在一些实施方案中，展示区域的唯一ID可以显示在展示区域内或附近，使得ID可以由具有成像部件的设备(例如，由智能电话或膝上型计算机上的相机)扫描或拍摄。例如，展示区域的唯一ID可以被显示在指示牌、贴纸、横幅、旗帜、柱子、悬挂标签、或唯一ID可被公众感知的任何其他显示机制上。为了说明，图21描绘了具有对应展示区域ID 21016的第一展示区域21012，所述展示区域ID可以被配置为可扫描的图形码(例如，QR码)。图21还描绘了具有对应的不同展示区域ID 21018的第二展示区域21014。在一些实施方案中，希望接收展示区域之一所示产品的附加信息的人可以使用智能设备扫描对应的展示区域ID，并且作为响应可以在他们的智能设备上接收所请求的信息。In some embodiments, the unique ID of the display area may be displayed within or adjacent to the display area so that the ID may be scanned or photographed by a device with an imaging component (eg, by a camera on a smartphone or laptop). For example, a display area's unique ID may be displayed on a sign, sticker, banner, flag, pole, hanging tag, or any other display mechanism where the unique ID is perceptible to the public. To illustrate, Figure 21 depicts a first presentation area 21012 having a corresponding presentation area ID 21016, which may be configured as a scannable graphical code (eg, a QR code). Figure 21 also depicts a second presentation area 21014 with a corresponding different presentation area ID 21018. In some embodiments, a person who wishes to receive additional information about a product shown in one of the display areas can use a smart device to scan the corresponding display area ID, and in response can receive the requested information on their smart device.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个数据结构可以包含与多个展示区域相关联的多个产品的标识。产品可以在零售场所中展示或者由零售场所提供以供销售。在一些实施方案中，多个产品中的每个产品可以与多个展示区域中的至少一个展示区域相关联。如本文所使用的，“与…相关联”可以指产品被容纳在特定展示区域中、被布置用于在特定展示区域内供公共查看、或以其他方式指派给特定展示区域或与其配对。In the disclosed embodiments, at least one data structure may contain identifications of multiple products associated with multiple display areas. Products may be displayed in a retail location or offered for sale by a retail location. In some embodiments, each product of the plurality of products may be associated with at least one display area of the plurality of display areas. As used herein, "associated with" may mean that a product is housed in a particular display area, arranged for public viewing within a particular display area, or otherwise assigned to or paired with a particular display area.
如上所述，至少一个数据结构可以包含多个产品的标识。在一些实施方案中，产品的标识(在下文中被称为“产品ID”)可以包括出于识别目的被指派给特定产品或以其他方式与其相关联的数据。产品ID可以包括数字、字母、字符、码、字符串或可以允许标识对应产品的其他数据形式。产品ID的一些非限制性例子包括序列号、唯一EPC码、库存单位(SKU)、通用产品码(UPC)、条形码或QR码。在一些实施方案中，特定产品的ID对于所述特定产品可以是唯一的，使得所述产品可以区别于其他多个产品。一旦给定产品与特定产品ID之间的配对或关联被建立，所述配对或关联就可以被存储在至少一个数据结构中。As mentioned above, at least one data structure may contain identifications of multiple products. In some embodiments, an identification of a product (hereinafter referred to as a "product ID") may include data assigned to or otherwise associated with a particular product for identification purposes. The product ID may include numbers, letters, characters, codes, strings, or other data forms that may allow identification of the corresponding product. Some non-limiting examples of product IDs include serial numbers, unique EPC numbers, stock keeping units (SKUs), Universal Product Codes (UPC), barcodes, or QR codes. In some embodiments, the ID of a particular product may be unique to that particular product such that the product may be distinguished from multiple other products. Once a pairing or association between a given product and a particular product ID is established, the pairing or association may be stored in at least one data structure.
所公开的实施方案可以包括对来自移动通信设备的信息的请求。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成接收对来自移动通信设备的信息的请求。作为非限制性例子，图18展示了其中移动通信设备18116(例如，智能电话)可以被配置用于经由网络18112向其他部件发送通信(包括对信息的请求)的实施方案。如本文所使用的，对信息的请求可以包括从第一设备发送到第二设备的通信信号，所述通信信号请求来自第二设备的响应通信信号并且指定将包括在响应通信信号中的特定信息。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以由例如零售场所内的顾客、零售场所外的顾客、或在展示区域中寻找一个或多个产品的信息的路人来操作。Disclosed embodiments may include requests for information from mobile communications devices. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive a request for information from a mobile communications device. As a non-limiting example, FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment in which a mobile communications device 18116 (eg, a smartphone) may be configured to send communications, including requests for information, to other components via the network 18112. As used herein, a request for information may include a communication signal sent from a first device to a second device that requests a response communication signal from the second device and specifies specific information to be included in the response communication signal. . In some embodiments, the mobile communication device may be operated by, for example, a customer inside a retail location, a customer outside a retail location, or a passerby looking for information about one or more products in a display area.
在所公开的实施方案中，从移动通信设备接收的请求可以包括对与移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域有关的信息的请求。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备附近的展示区域可以包括在持有或操作移动通信设备的个人的查看距离内的展示区域。另外地或替代性地，移动通信设备附近的展示区域可以包括相对于其他展示区域离移动通信设备最短距离的展示区域。In disclosed embodiments, a request received from a mobile communications device may include a request for information related to a particular presentation area proximate the mobile communications device. In some embodiments, a display area proximate the mobile communication device may include a display area within viewing distance of an individual holding or operating the mobile communication device. Additionally or alternatively, a display area near the mobile communication device may include a display area that is the shortest distance from the mobile communication device relative to other display areas.
在所公开的实施方案中，对与特定展示区域有关的信息的请求可以包括输入到移动通信设备中的位置ID。例如，请求关于特定展示区域的信息的人可以通过将指定特定展示区域的位置标识符(或“位置ID”)输入到他们的移动通信设备中来生成请求。例如，位置ID可以使用移动通信设备或具有相机或成像工具的另一设备从图形码的扫描导出；移动通信设备(和/或另一处理器)可以从扫描导出位置ID，并且可以生成并向至少一个处理器发送对信息的请求，所述信息可以包括位置ID。在一些实施方案中，位置ID可以对应于或者可以等同于特定展示区域的展示区域ID。例如，在图21中，展示区域ID 21016可以包括可扫描的QR码，所述QR码可以被扫描以生成对关于展示区域21012的信息的请求。In the disclosed embodiments, the request for information related to a particular presentation area may include a location ID entered into the mobile communications device. For example, a person requesting information about a particular display area may generate the request by entering a location identifier (or "location ID") specifying the particular display area into their mobile communications device. For example, the location ID may be derived from a scan of the graphic code using a mobile communications device or another device with a camera or imaging tool; the mobile communications device (and/or another processor) may derive the location ID from the scan and may generate and send the At least one processor sends a request for information, which may include a location ID. In some embodiments, the location ID may correspond to, or may be identical to, the presentation area ID of a particular presentation area. For example, in FIG. 21 , presentation area ID 21016 may include a scannable QR code that may be scanned to generate a request for information about presentation area 21012 .
作为另一个例子，位置ID可以从与特定展示区域相关联的近场通信(NFC)标签导出。也就是说，NFC标签可以位于特定展示区域附近或者可以其他方式唯一地对应于特定展示区域。寻找关于特定展示区域的信息的人可以使用其移动通信设备从NFC标签接收传输，并且移动通信设备可以使用从NFC标签接收的信息来确定位置ID并且生成对信息的请求。替代性地，特定展示区域的位置ID可以通过其他手段(诸如由移动通信设备拍摄的、或由与关联于特定展示区域的蓝牙信标或本地WiFi网络通信的移动设备拍摄的带地理标签的图片)来接收，以便生成对信息的请求。As another example, the location ID may be derived from a near field communication (NFC) tag associated with a particular display area. That is, the NFC tag may be located near a particular display area or may otherwise uniquely correspond to a particular display area. A person seeking information about a particular display area can use their mobile communications device to receive transmissions from the NFC tag, and the mobile communications device can use the information received from the NFC tag to determine the location ID and generate a request for the information. Alternatively, the location ID of a particular display area may be obtained by other means, such as a geotagged picture taken by a mobile communications device, or by a mobile device communicating with a Bluetooth beacon or local WiFi network associated with the particular display area. ) to receive in order to generate a request for information.
所公开的实施方案可以包括接收与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成接收与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息。如本文所使用的，移动通信设备的地点可以指移动通信设备所处的特定位置、点或地方。此外，与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息可以包括一组数字、字符串、坐标、或表示数字、字符串或坐标的数字位，其可以指或标识主体(在此为移动通信设备)相对于预定坐标系或另一参考物的物理位置或地点。也就是说，位置信息可以包括标识或指定移动通信设备在空间中的物理位置的数据。在一些实施方案中，接收对来自移动通信设备的信息的请求可以触发至少一个处理器请求或访问移动通信设备的位置信息。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving location information associated with a location of a mobile communications device. For example, at least one processor may be configured to receive location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device. As used herein, the location of a mobile communications device may refer to a specific location, point, or place where the mobile communications device is located. Additionally, location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device may include a set of numbers, strings, coordinates, or digits representing numbers, strings, or coordinates, which may refer to or identify the subject (here, the mobile communications device) A physical position or location relative to a predetermined coordinate system or another reference object. That is, location information may include data that identifies or specifies the physical location of the mobile communications device in space. In some embodiments, receiving a request for information from a mobile communications device may trigger at least one processor to request or access location information for the mobile communications device.
位置信息的一些非限制性例子可以包括街道地址、地图上的点或其他地理信息系统(GIS)、全球定位系统(GPS)坐标、室内导航系统测量以及指示移动通信设备的地点或物理位置的任何其他数据。例如，在所公开的实施方案中，与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息可以包括GPS位置、全球导航卫星系统(GLONASS)位置、伽利略位置(即，从伽利略卫星系统导出的位置信息)、或与移动通信设备相关联的其他全球导航和定位系统位置信息中的至少一个。另外地或替代性地，与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息可以包括从室内导航系统或室内定位系统(诸如基于WiFi的飞行时间(ToF)或往返时间(RTT)定位系统、或基于超宽带(UWB)的定位系统)中的至少一个接收的信息，其可以使用整个区域中策略性放置的中继器和信标来确定主体的位置(对于室内定位系统)和/或将主体引导到目标位置(对于室内导航系统)。Some non-limiting examples of location information may include street addresses, points on a map or other geographic information system (GIS), global positioning system (GPS) coordinates, indoor navigation system measurements, and anything indicating the location or physical location of a mobile communications device. Other data. For example, in disclosed embodiments, location information associated with a location of a mobile communications device may include a GPS location, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) location, a Galileo location (i.e., location information derived from the Galileo satellite system), or at least one of other global navigation and positioning system location information associated with the mobile communications device. Additionally or alternatively, location information associated with the location of the mobile communication device may include information obtained from an indoor navigation system or an indoor positioning system, such as a WiFi-based time-of-flight (ToF) or round-trip time (RTT) positioning system, or an ultrasonic-based Information received by at least one of the wideband (UWB) positioning systems), which can determine the subject's location (for indoor positioning systems) using repeaters and beacons strategically placed throughout the area and/or guide the subject to the target Location (for indoor navigation systems).
所公开的实施方案可以包括响应于位置信息，在至少一个数据结构中执行查找以识别移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域。例如，可以假设移动通信设备位于与特定展示区域相同的位置或者在特定展示区域的短距离内。进一步地，至少一个数据结构可以包括每个展示区域的位置信息，如上文所讨论的。因此，至少一个处理器可以在至少一个数据结构中执行查找，以识别具有与移动通信设备相同的位置、或最靠近移动通信设备、或在移动通信设备的预定距离内的展示区域。这个展示区域可以被识别为移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域(即，作为信息请求的主体的展示区域)。Disclosed embodiments may include performing a lookup in at least one data structure to identify a particular display area proximate the mobile communications device in response to the location information. For example, the mobile communication device may be assumed to be in the same location as or within a short distance of a particular presentation area. Further, at least one data structure may include location information for each display area, as discussed above. Accordingly, at least one processor may perform a lookup in at least one data structure to identify a display area that has the same location as the mobile communications device, or is closest to the mobile communications device, or is within a predetermined distance of the mobile communications device. This presentation area may be identified as a specific presentation area in the vicinity of the mobile communication device (ie, the presentation area that is the subject of the information request).
在替代实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于对从移动通信设备接收的信息的请求来识别特定展示区域。例如，在一些实施方案中，对信息的请求可以包括特定展示区域的位置ID，其可以对应于或者可以等同于特定展示区域的展示区域ID。至少一个处理器可以被配置成基于所接收的位置ID确定特定展示区域的标识(例如，通过在至少一个数据结构中对所接收的位置ID执行查找以确定对应的展示区域)。In alternative embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to identify a particular display area based on a request for information received from the mobile communications device. For example, in some embodiments, the request for information may include a location ID for a particular display area, which may correspond to or may be identical to the display area ID for the particular display area. At least one processor may be configured to determine an identification of a particular presentation area based on the received location ID (eg, by performing a lookup on the received location ID in at least one data structure to determine the corresponding presentation area).
在一些实施方案中，特定展示区域可以包括窗口展示。例如，窗口展示可以包括零售场所中的窗口(通常是商店正面的窗口)，其中可以展示产品，使得顾客可以从场所外部查看产品。作为例子，图21描绘了被配置为窗口展示的展示区域21012和21014。另外地或替代性地，特定展示区域可以邻近于载有与特定展示区域相关联的产品的销售场所。如本文所使用的，邻近于销售场所的展示区域可以包括在销售场所外部但紧邻销售场所的展示区域。这可以包括例如从销售场所沿着街区或者穿过街道的展示区域、在销售场所也位于其中的建筑物的正面的展示区域、以及位于购物中心的与销售场所不同的区域中的展示区域。如本文所使用的，载有与特定展示区域相关联的产品的销售场所可以包括将产品保持在库存中和/或提供产品以供销售或租借的销售场所。In some embodiments, a specific display area may include a window display. For example, a window display may include a window in a retail establishment (usually a window on a store front) in which products may be displayed so that customers can view the products from outside the establishment. As an example, Figure 21 depicts presentation areas 21012 and 21014 configured as window presentations. Additionally or alternatively, a particular display area may be adjacent to a sales location carrying products associated with the particular display area. As used herein, a display area adjacent to a sales location may include a display area outside of the sales location but immediately adjacent to the sales location. This may include, for example, display areas along the block or across the street from the sales place, display areas on the facade of a building in which the sales place is also located, and display areas located in a different area of the shopping center than the sales place. As used herein, a sales location that carries products associated with a particular display area may include a sales location that maintains products in inventory and/or offers products for sale or rental.
在一些实施方案中，特定展示区域可以在储存场所附近，所述储存场所将与特定展示区域相关联的产品保持为可供装运的产品。如本文所使用的，储存场所可以包括作为供应链或生产链的不同阶段之间的中间阶段而放置或保持产品的位置。例如，储存场所可以包括在制造与装运之间保持产品的位置、在进口到国家与在国家内配送到目标位置之间保持产品的位置、或在到达目的地国家与装运给最终顾客之间保持产品的位置。在一些实施方案中，特定展示区域可以位于储存场所内、邻近于储存场所或在储存场所附近，使得潜在顾客可以查看展示区域并购买所展示的产品。在这种情况下，在一些实施方案中，所购买产品可以从场所装运给购买者。In some embodiments, a particular display area may be adjacent to a storage location that maintains products associated with the particular display area as available for shipment. As used herein, a storage location may include a location where products are placed or held as an intermediate stage between different stages of a supply chain or production chain. For example, storage locations may include where products are held between manufacturing and shipment, where products are held between importation into a country and distribution within a country to a destination location, or between arrival in a destination country and shipment to the end customer. Product location. In some embodiments, a specific display area may be located within, adjacent to, or near the storage location so that potential customers can view the display area and purchase the displayed products. In this case, in some embodiments, the purchased product may be shipped from the venue to the purchaser.
在一些实施方案中，特定展示区域可以与用于产品销售或产品储存中的至少一个的远程场所相关联。例如，特定展示区域可以不邻近于场所的查看距离定位或可以不位于场所的查看距离内。这可以包括其中临时展示区域被设置在高流量区域中(诸如在跳蚤市场和音乐会处)但产品的库存保留在远离展示区域的场所处的实施方案。这还可以包括其中在场所不具有永久驻扎(诸如商店或储存设施)但仍希望进行商业活动的国家或地区中设置展示区域的实施方案。在一些实施方案中，远程场所可以提供与特定展示区域相关联的产品作为可供销售、装运或拾取的产品。例如，在特定展示区域中展示的产品可以在场所中被提供用于购买。场所可以提供将所购买产品装运给完成从特定展示区域进行购买的顾客，使得顾客不需要行进到场所来取回其购买的物品。另外地或替代性地，场所可以提供对从特定展示区域购买的产品的商店内拾取，使得从特定展示进行购买的顾客可以进入场所，以获得其购买的产品。In some embodiments, a particular display area may be associated with a remote location for at least one of product sales or product storage. For example, a particular display area may not be positioned adjacent to the viewing distance of the venue or may not be within the viewing distance of the venue. This may include embodiments where temporary display areas are provided in high traffic areas (such as at flea markets and concerts) but inventory of products is maintained at a location remote from the display area. This may also include embodiments where display areas are provided in countries or regions where the venue does not have a permanent presence (such as a store or storage facility) but where commercial activity is still desired. In some embodiments, a remote location may offer products associated with a particular display area as available for sale, shipping, or pickup. For example, products displayed in a particular display area may be offered for purchase in the venue. The venue may offer to ship purchased products to customers who complete their purchases from a particular display area, so that customers do not need to travel to the venue to retrieve their purchased items. Additionally or alternatively, the venue may offer in-store pickup of products purchased from a particular display area, such that customers purchasing from a particular display may enter the venue to obtain their purchased products.
所公开的实施方案可以包括基于特定展示区域的标识从至少一个数据结构检索与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息。例如，当特定展示区域的标识(即，特定展示区域ID)已知时，至少一个处理器可以在至少一个数据结构中对特定展示区域ID执行查找以访问特定展示区域的信息。所访问的信息可以包括产品的列表以及与特定展示区域相关联的产品(即，容纳在特定展示区域中、被布置用于在特定展示区域内公开查看、或以其他方式与特定展示区域配对的产品)的产品相关信息。在一些实施方案中，产品相关信息可以包括关于特定物品的数据或者关于特定物品的类型或类别的数据。产品相关信息的例子可以包括价格信息、MSRP、产品的图片、产品的描述、护理说明、使用说明、材料成分、制造时间和位置、装运历史、处理历史以及所有权历史。在一些实施方案中，与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息可以包括与特定展示区域相关联的至少一些产品的标识(即，与特定展示区域相关联的至少一些产品的唯一产品标识符或产品ID)。另外地或替代性地，与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息可以包括物理位置的信息，在所述物理位置处，与特定展示区域相关联的产品可供拾取。例如，产品相关信息可以包括零售场所、储存设施、以及展示区域中的特定产品可以被拾取的其他位置的信息。这可以包括例如靠近顾客或靠近与顾客相关联的地址(诸如家庭地址、办公室地址、或顾客当前停留的旅馆或其他住宿)的零售场所的列表，其中特定产品有存活。Disclosed embodiments may include retrieving product-related information from at least one data structure for a product associated with a particular display area based on an identification of the particular display area. For example, when an identification of a particular presentation area (ie, a specific presentation area ID) is known, at least one processor may perform a lookup for the specific presentation area ID in at least one data structure to access information for the specific presentation area. The information accessed may include a list of products as well as products associated with a particular display area (i.e., housed in a particular display area, arranged for public viewing within a particular display area, or otherwise paired with a particular display area). product) product related information. In some embodiments, product-related information may include data about a particular item or data about a type or category of a particular item. Examples of product-related information may include pricing information, MSRP, pictures of the product, description of the product, care instructions, instructions for use, material composition, time and location of manufacture, shipping history, handling history, and ownership history. In some embodiments, product-related information for products associated with a particular display area may include identifications of at least some of the products associated with the particular display area (i.e., unique product identifiers for at least some of the products associated with the particular display area or product ID). Additionally or alternatively, product-related information for products associated with a particular display area may include information of physical locations at which products associated with a particular display area are available for pickup. For example, product-related information may include information about retail locations, storage facilities, and other locations in display areas where specific products may be picked up. This may include, for example, a list of retail locations near the customer or near an address associated with the customer (such as a home address, an office address, or a hotel or other accommodation where the customer is currently staying) where a particular product is available.
所公开的实施方案可以包括将产品相关信息传输到移动通信设备。例如，至少一个处理器可以被配置成向移动通信设备传输所有产品相关信息或产品相关信息的选择。因此，操作移动通信设备的个人可以接收关于产品的信息，所述信息可以有助于做出购买抉择。在所公开的实施方案中，将产品相关信息传输到移动通信设备可以包括传输信号以致使移动通信设备在图形用户界面上显示产品相关信息。如本文所使用的，图形用户界面(GUI)可以包括用户可以通过其与诸如计算机、手持设备、智能电话、平板电脑、触摸屏设备和其他电器等电子设备进行交互的界面。GUI可以使用图标、菜单和/或其他视觉指示符(图形)表示来显示信息和相关的用户控件。GUI表示可以由诸如鼠标、轨迹球、指示笔或触摸屏上的手指等定点设备来操纵。在一些实施方案中，GUI可以包括移动通信设备上的显示器，其在一些实施方案中可以被配置为触摸屏。作为例子，图11示出了示例性系统11000，所述示例性系统包括被配置成经由网络11002向用户设备11008传输信息的至少一个处理器11004，所述用户设备可以包括诸如GUI等用户界面11010。在一些实施方案中，处理器11004可以将信号传输到设备11008，所述信号致使设备11008在用户界面11010的GUI上显示产品相关信息。Disclosed embodiments may include transmitting product-related information to a mobile communication device. For example, at least one processor may be configured to transmit all product-related information or a selection of product-related information to the mobile communications device. Thus, an individual operating a mobile communications device can receive information about products that can assist in making purchasing decisions. In disclosed embodiments, transmitting the product-related information to the mobile communications device may include transmitting a signal to cause the mobile communications device to display the product-related information on a graphical user interface. As used herein, a graphical user interface (GUI) may include an interface through which a user can interact with electronic devices such as computers, handheld devices, smartphones, tablets, touch screen devices, and other appliances. A GUI may use icons, menus, and/or other visual indicator (graphical) representations to display information and related user controls. The GUI representation can be manipulated by a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, or finger on a touch screen. In some embodiments, the GUI may include a display on the mobile communication device, which in some embodiments may be configured as a touch screen. As an example, FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary system 11000 that includes at least one processor 11004 configured to transmit information via a network 11002 to a user device 11008 that may include a user interface 11010 such as a GUI. . In some implementations, processor 11004 may transmit signals to device 11008 that cause device 11008 to display product-related information on the GUI of user interface 11010 .
在一些实施方案中，图形用户界面可以被配置成以文本格式或图形格式中的至少一个显示产品相关信息。如本文所使用的，文本格式可以指包括产品的字母数字信息(诸如产品的名称、类型、价格、颜色、尺寸或位置)的显示。进一步地，如本文所使用的，图形格式可以指包括产品的至少一个图像、照片或图形渲染的显示。在一些实施方案中，产品相关信息的显示可以包括呈文本格式的信息和呈图形格式的信息。In some implementations, the graphical user interface may be configured to display product-related information in at least one of textual format or graphical format. As used herein, text format may refer to a display that includes alphanumeric information about a product, such as the product's name, type, price, color, size, or location. Further, as used herein, graphic format may refer to a display that includes at least one image, photo, or graphical rendering of a product. In some embodiments, the display of product-related information may include information in text format and information in graphical format.
图22展示了在移动通信设备18116上显示的图形用户界面(GUI)22010的非限制性例子。GUI 22010可以显示与图21的展示区域21014相关联的产品的产品相关信息。在图22所示的例子中，GUI 22010可以被配置为展示区域21014中的用于产品购买的在线购买界面；然而，在替代实施方案中，GUI 22010可以被配置成独立于在线购买界面来显示产品相关信息。GUI 22010可以包括正在展示产品的特定展示区域的标识符22012。GUI 22010可以包括文本信息22014，诸如在展示区域21014中提供的每个产品的书面描述。GUI 22010还可以包括图形信息22016，诸如每个物品的照片或图像。GUI 22010还可以包括用户可以选择来购买特定产品的字段22018(例如，勾选框)。Figure 22 shows a non-limiting example of a graphical user interface (GUI) 22010 displayed on a mobile communications device 18116. The GUI 22010 may display product-related information for the product associated with the display area 21014 of FIG. 21 . In the example shown in Figure 22, GUI 22010 may be configured to display an online purchasing interface for product purchasing in area 21014; however, in alternative embodiments, GUI 22010 may be configured to be displayed independently of the online purchasing interface. Product related information. The GUI 22010 may include an identifier 22012 of the specific display area where the product is being displayed. GUI 22010 may include textual information 22014 such as a written description of each product provided in display area 21014. The GUI 22010 may also include graphical information 22016, such as photos or images of each item. The GUI 22010 may also include fields 22018 (eg, checkboxes) that the user can select to purchase specific products.
所公开的实施方案可以另外地或替代性地包括传输信号以致使移动通信设备输出产品相关信息作为可听信息以供经由移动通信设备呈现。例如，移动通信设备可以包括扬声器或另一音频输出机构。至少一个处理器可以向移动通信设备传输信号，所述信号致使设备经由扬声器输出产品相关信息作为可听信息，诸如与特定展示区域的产品有关的口头信息。Disclosed embodiments may additionally or alternatively include transmitting a signal to cause the mobile communications device to output product-related information as audible information for presentation via the mobile communications device. For example, the mobile communication device may include a speaker or another audio output mechanism. At least one processor may transmit a signal to the mobile communications device that causes the device to output product-related information as audible information via a speaker, such as verbal information related to products in a particular display area.
所公开的实施方案可以包括与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个接收器。在一些实施方案中，与特定展示区域“相关联”的接收器可以包括：部分或完全地位于特定展示区域内的接收器；被配置成接收传输到特定展示区域或从特定展示区域传输的信号的接收器；以及接收包含与特定展示区域相关的信息的信号的接收器。Disclosed embodiments may include at least one receiver associated with a particular display area. In some embodiments, a receiver "associated with" a particular display area may include: a receiver located partially or completely within the particular display area; configured to receive signals transmitted to or from the particular display area a receiver; and a receiver that receives a signal containing information related to a specific display area.
在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个接收器可以被配置成从移动通信设备接收无线信号。例如，接收器可以包括特定展示区域内或附近的接入点或无线路由器，所述接入点或无线路由器可以与移动通信设备建立无线连接。至少一个处理器可以具有与接收器的有线(例如，以太网)和/或无线连接，因此，即使在移动通信设备由站在外面看着特定展示区域的用户操作时，也能够在移动通信设备与至少一个处理器之间进行数据传输。作为例子，图21示出了与展示区域21012相关联的接收器21020以及与展示区域21014相关联的接收器21022；在所示的例子中，接收器可以位于其相应的展示区域内。接收器21020和21022可以被配置成从移动通信设备(诸如设备18116)接收无线信号。In disclosed embodiments, at least one receiver may be configured to receive wireless signals from the mobile communications device. For example, the receiver may include an access point or wireless router within or near a particular display area that may establish a wireless connection with the mobile communications device. At least one processor may have a wired (e.g., Ethernet) and/or wireless connection to the receiver, thereby being able to operate the mobile communication device even when the mobile communication device is operated by a user standing outside looking at a particular display area. Data transfer to and from at least one processor. As an example, Figure 21 shows a receiver 21020 associated with presentation area 21012 and a receiver 21022 associated with presentation area 21014; in the example shown, the receivers may be located within their respective presentation areas. Receivers 21020 and 21022 may be configured to receive wireless signals from a mobile communications device, such as device 18116.
所公开的实施方案可以包括基于经由至少一个接收器接收的信号确定移动通信设备相对于特定展示区域的位置。例如，移动通信设备可以传输可由至少一个接收器接收的信号。然而，取决于与至少一个接收器的接近度，被每个接收器接收的信号的功率水平在幅值、相位、到达角或到达时间上可能不同。至少一个处理器可以使用此信号数据来计算信号通过通信媒介传播的某些属性，建立诸如可以检测到信号的范围、表示已经传输信号的相对或实际距离的值、信噪比、干扰特性等参数。在无线通信的背景下，幅值可以以功率为单位测量，通常为瓦特或dBW(分贝瓦特或dB瓦特)，其为与瓦特相关的对数单位(或者有时以dBm为单位，其以dBW与瓦特相关相同的方式与毫瓦特相关)。在这个意义上，信号的功率水平可以指例如当接收器正在有源地接收一个或多个信号时，在接收器处的信号输入端立即进行的功率测量结果。Disclosed embodiments may include determining a location of a mobile communications device relative to a particular display area based on signals received via at least one receiver. For example, a mobile communications device may transmit signals that may be received by at least one receiver. However, depending on the proximity to at least one receiver, the power level of the signal received by each receiver may differ in amplitude, phase, angle of arrival, or time of arrival. At least one processor can use this signal data to calculate certain properties of the signal propagating through the communication medium, establishing parameters such as the range within which the signal can be detected, a value representing the relative or actual distance over which the signal has been transmitted, signal-to-noise ratio, interference characteristics, etc. . In the context of wireless communications, amplitude can be measured in units of power, typically watts or dBW (decibel watts or dB watts), which is the logarithmic unit related to watts (or sometimes dBm, which is the unit of dBW versus dBW). Watts relate to milliwatts in the same way). In this sense, the power level of a signal may refer, for example, to a power measurement made immediately at the signal input at the receiver while the receiver is actively receiving one or more signals.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以通过比较在每个接收器处接收的信号的功率水平并且基于所述比较确定设备的位置来确定移动通信设备的位置。例如，由移动通信设备传输并且由第一接收器接收到的第一信号的功率水平可以高于由其他接收器接收到的来自设备的其他信号的功率水平，这是因为设备距离第一接收器比距离其他接收器更近。第一接收器可以与给定位置相关联，并且因此，基于第一接收器接收最强信号及其与给定位置的关联，可以确定移动通信设备位于该位置。类似地，由不同接收器检测到的多个信号强度可以用于估计设备的位置。例如，使用由三个接收器检测到的三个信号强度，至少一个处理器可以对信号进行三角测量以估计或确定传输源，所述传输源可以对应于移动通信设备的位置。在所公开的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成确定移动通信设备相对于特定展示区域的位置，因为至少一个接收器和/或特定展示区域的位置可以是预先已知的。至少一个处理器可以将移动通信设备的所确定位置与至少一个接收器和/或特定展示区域的一个或多个位置进行比较，以确定移动通信设备相对于特定展示区域的位置。In some embodiments, at least one processor may determine the location of the mobile communications device by comparing power levels of signals received at each receiver and determining the location of the device based on the comparison. For example, a first signal transmitted by a mobile communications device and received by a first receiver may have a higher power level than other signals from the device received by other receivers due to the distance of the device from the first receiver. closer than other receivers. The first receiver may be associated with a given location, and therefore, based on the first receiver receiving the strongest signal and its association with the given location, it may be determined that the mobile communications device is located at that location. Similarly, multiple signal strengths detected by different receivers can be used to estimate the location of the device. For example, using three signal strengths detected by three receivers, at least one processor may triangulate the signals to estimate or determine the source of transmission, which may correspond to the location of the mobile communications device. In the disclosed embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to determine the location of the mobile communications device relative to a particular display area, since the location of the at least one receiver and/or the particular display area may be known in advance. At least one processor may compare the determined location of the mobile communications device to one or more locations of the at least one receiver and/or the particular presentation area to determine the location of the mobile communications device relative to the particular presentation area.
所公开的实施方案可以包括向移动通信设备传输信号以致使移动通信设备基于与特定展示区域相关联的多个产品与移动通信设备的接近度来对产品相关信息划分优先级。如下文详细讨论的，将产品相关信息区分划分优先级可以包括控制移动通信设备呈现产品相关信息的至少一个参数。在一些实施方案中，产品与移动通信设备的接近度可以指给定产品与移动通信设备之间的距离。因此，在一些实施方案中，可以使移动通信设备基于给定产品与移动通信设备之间的距离将产品相关信息划分优先级。在一些实施方案中，与更远的产品相比，更靠近移动通信设备的产品可以具有“更高”的优先级。替代性地，与更远的产品相比，更靠近移动通信设备的产品可以具有“更低”的优先级。Disclosed embodiments may include transmitting a signal to a mobile communications device to cause the mobile communications device to prioritize product-related information based on proximity of multiple products associated with a particular display area to the mobile communications device. As discussed in detail below, prioritizing product-related information may include at least one parameter that controls the mobile communications device to present the product-related information. In some embodiments, the proximity of a product to a mobile communications device may refer to the distance between a given product and the mobile communications device. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the mobile communications device may be enabled to prioritize product-related information based on the distance between a given product and the mobile communications device. In some embodiments, products closer to the mobile communications device may have "higher" priority than products further away. Alternatively, products closer to the mobile communications device may have a "lower" priority than products further away.
在一些实施方案中，将产品相关信息划分优先级可以包括基于产品与移动通信设备的接近度来控制移动通信设备呈现产品相关信息的顺序。例如，当在图形用户界面上显示产品相关信息时，与更远的产品相比，被确定为更靠近移动通信设备的产品可以更早地显示或者在排序列表中被放置得更高。为了说明，在图22所描绘的GUI 22010中，电话22020可以是最靠近移动通信设备的产品，并且因此可以在GUI 22010中被首先列出。相反，椅子22022可以是最远离移动通信设备的产品，并且因此可以在GUI 22010中最后列出。In some embodiments, prioritizing product-related information may include controlling the order in which the mobile communications device presents the product-related information based on proximity of the product to the mobile communications device. For example, when displaying product-related information on a graphical user interface, products determined to be closer to a mobile communication device may be displayed earlier or placed higher in a sorted list than products further away. To illustrate, in the GUI 22010 depicted in Figure 22, the phone 22020 may be the product closest to the mobile communications device, and therefore may be listed first in the GUI 22010. In contrast, chair 22022 may be the product furthest from the mobile communication device, and therefore may be listed last in GUI 22010.
另外地或替代性地，将产品相关信息划分优先级可以包括基于产品与移动通信设备的接近度来控制移动通信设备呈现产品相关信息的细节级别。例如，当在图形用户界面上显示产品相关信息时，可以示出靠近移动通信设备的产品的更多信息，同时可以示出更远的产品的更少信息。作为说明性例子，GUI 22010可以包括用于作为最靠近移动通信设备的产品的电话22020的最大数量的信息字段(包括制造商、材料、日期和价格)。然而，界面可以包括对于更远的产品的更少的信息字段。例如，GUI 22010可以包括椅子22022的最小数量的信息字段(仅价格)，因为在各种实施方案中椅子22022是最远离移动通信设备的产品。Additionally or alternatively, prioritizing the product-related information may include controlling the level of detail at which the mobile communications device presents the product-related information based on proximity of the product to the mobile communications device. For example, when product-related information is displayed on a graphical user interface, more information for products closer to the mobile communication device may be shown, while less information for products further away may be shown. As an illustrative example, GUI 22010 may include a maximum number of information fields (including manufacturer, material, date, and price) for phone 22020 as the product closest to the mobile communications device. However, the interface may include fewer information fields for more distant products. For example, GUI 22010 may include a minimal number of information fields (price only) for chair 22022 because chair 22022 is the product furthest from the mobile communications device in various embodiments.
另外地或替代性地，将产品相关信息划分优先级可以包括基于产品与移动通信设备的接近度来控制供移动通信设备呈现的产品相关信息的选择。例如，当在图形用户界面上显示产品相关信息时，界面可以仅包括预定数量的产品(例如，五个产品)的信息；在显示中可以包括最靠近移动通信设备的五个产品，而可以不包括更远的产品。Additionally or alternatively, prioritizing product-related information may include controlling selection of product-related information for presentation by the mobile communications device based on proximity of the product to the mobile communications device. For example, when displaying product-related information on a graphical user interface, the interface may only include information on a predetermined number of products (for example, five products); the five products closest to the mobile communication device may be included in the display, but may not be included in the display. Includes further products.
所公开的实施方案可以包括从移动通信设备接收对与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个特定产品的选择。例如，移动通信设备可以经由诸如触摸屏或键盘等用户界面从用户接收选择。所公开的实施方案还可以包括发起与选择相关联的活动。如本文所使用的，活动可以包括由至少一个处理器基于对至少一个特定产品的选择来执行的一个或多个功能。Disclosed embodiments may include receiving a selection of at least one specific product associated with a specific display area from a mobile communications device. For example, the mobile communication device may receive selections from the user via a user interface such as a touch screen or keyboard. Disclosed embodiments may also include initiating an activity associated with the selection. As used herein, an activity may include one or more functions performed by at least one processor based on selection of at least one particular product.
在所公开的实施方案中，选择可以包括购买请求，并且活动可以包括购买交易。如本文所使用的，购买请求可以包括由移动通信设备生成的通信信号，所述通信信号指示代表移动通信设备的用户或另一个人或实体从场所购买至少一个特定产品的订单。如本公开文本中其他地方所公开的，购买交易可以包括将对至少一个特定产品的所有权、占有权或任何其他权益从场所转移给移动通信设备的用户或另一个人或实体，以货币支付或其他对价作为交换。在一些实施方案中，目标交易可以由至少一个处理器或由另一处理器以电子方式执行。在另一处理器执行购买交易的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成通过将用于购买交易的信息和/或指令传送到另一处理器来发起购买交易。替代性地，购买交易可以手动执行，诸如通过与银行或票据交换所相关联的个人。在这样的实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成通过将对于购买交易的信息和/或指令发送到将执行交易的一方(例如，银行或票据交换所)来发起购买交易。In the disclosed embodiments, selections may include purchase requests and activities may include purchase transactions. As used herein, a purchase request may include a communication signal generated by a mobile communications device indicating an order to purchase at least one specific product from a venue on behalf of a user of the mobile communications device or another person or entity. As disclosed elsewhere in this disclosure, a purchase transaction may include the transfer of ownership, possession or any other interest in at least one specific product from the Venue to the user of the mobile communications device or another person or entity, for a monetary payment or Other consideration in exchange. In some embodiments, target transactions may be performed electronically by at least one processor or by another processor. In embodiments where another processor executes the purchase transaction, at least one processor may be configured to initiate the purchase transaction by transmitting information and/or instructions for the purchase transaction to the other processor. Alternatively, the purchase transaction may be performed manually, such as by an individual associated with a bank or clearinghouse. In such embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to initiate the purchase transaction by sending information and/or instructions for the purchase transaction to the party that will execute the transaction (eg, a bank or clearinghouse).
所公开的实施方案可以包括结合购买交易，向移动通信设备传输用于产品递送的选项。例如，用于产品递送的选项可以包括可供向移动通信设备的用户或者向指定的第三方接收者递送(在购买交易中购买的)至少一个特定产品的选项。用于产品递送的选项的一些非限制性例子可以包括：在特定展示区域附近的位置处拾取至少一个特定产品(例如，由购买者或被授权拾取至少一个特定产品的另一个人从特定展示区域所附接的零售场所对至少一个特定产品的商店内拾取)；在除了特定展示区域附近的位置以外的位置处拾取至少一个特定产品(例如，从与同一企业或供应商相关联的另一个分支或位置拾取至少一个特定产品)；以及将至少一个特定产品递送到指定地址(例如，将至少一个特定产品装运到指定地址(诸如接收者的家庭或商业地址)，或装运要从中央拾取位置(诸如邮局、装运公司位置、门店或收集柜)取得的至少一个特定产品)。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备的用户可以使用移动通信设备选择用于产品递送的选项。Disclosed embodiments may include transmitting options for product delivery to a mobile communications device in connection with a purchase transaction. For example, options for product delivery may include options for delivering at least one specific product (purchased in the purchase transaction) to a user of the mobile communications device or to a designated third party recipient. Some non-limiting examples of options for product delivery may include: picking up at least one specific product at a location proximate a specific display area (e.g., by the purchaser or another person authorized to pick up at least one specific product from a specific display area In-store pickup of at least one specific product at an attached retail location); Picking up at least one specific product at a location other than a location adjacent to a specific display area (e.g., from another branch associated with the same business or supplier or location to pick up at least one specific product); and deliver at least one specific product to a designated address (e.g., ship at least one specific product to a designated address (such as the recipient's home or business address), or the shipment is to be from a central pickup location ( (such as a post office, shipping company location, store, or collection locker) for at least one specific product). In some embodiments, a user of the mobile communication device can select options for product delivery using the mobile communication device.
在所公开的实施方案中，购买请求可以包括将与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个特定产品装运到经由移动通信设备指定的位置的请求。例如，递送地址可以被输入到移动通信设备并且与发送到至少一个处理器的购买请求一起被包括。在一些实施方案中，在完成购买交易之后，可以将至少一个特定产品(即，一个或多个所购买产品)递送到经由移动通信设备指定的地址或位置。In the disclosed embodiments, the purchase request may include a request to ship at least one specific product associated with a specific display area to a location specified via the mobile communications device. For example, the delivery address may be entered into the mobile communications device and included with the purchase request sent to at least one processor. In some embodiments, upon completion of a purchase transaction, at least one particular product (ie, one or more purchased products) may be delivered to an address or location specified via the mobile communications device.
在所公开的实施方案中，选择可以包括对附加信息的请求，并且活动可以包括将附加信息传输到移动通信设备。如本文所使用的，对附加信息的请求可以包括从移动通信设备发送到至少一个处理器的通信信号，所述通信信号请求来自至少一个处理器的响应通信信号并且指定在响应通信信号中包括的特定信息。例如，对附加信息的请求可以请求关于先前未提供给移动通信设备的至少一个特定产品(或特定展示区域或另一个展示区域中的任何其他产品)的信息。响应于对附加信息的请求，至少一个处理器可以将附加信息传输到移动通信设备，或者替代性地，可以传输附加信息不可用或者未被授权发送至移动通信设备的指示。In the disclosed embodiments, the selection may include a request for additional information and the activity may include transmitting the additional information to the mobile communications device. As used herein, a request for additional information may include a communication signal sent from a mobile communication device to at least one processor, the communication signal requesting a response communication signal from the at least one processor and specifying a communication signal included in the response communication signal. specific information. For example, a request for additional information may request information regarding at least one specific product (or any other product in a specific display area or another display area) that has not previously been provided to the mobile communications device. In response to the request for additional information, at least one processor may transmit the additional information to the mobile communications device or, alternatively, may transmit an indication that the additional information is unavailable or not authorized for transmission to the mobile communications device.
所公开的实施方案可以包括一种系统，所述系统用于读取包含多个带无线标签的产品的场所中的无线传输标签并且用于自动生成产品分布陈列图。无线传输标签可以包括任何可无线检测的设备，诸如射频识别(RFID)设备、蓝牙低功耗(BLE)信标设备、包括由射频能量供能的微控制器的设备、或者被配置成传输能够检测的信号的任何其他结构。如本文所使用的，场所可以包括可以储存或保持物体或材料库存的任何区域、建筑物或结构，诸如零售场所、商店、仓库、配送中心、物流中心、履行中心、制造区域、装运区域、储存区域、家庭、医疗设施、饮食场所、厨房、或者跟踪物品可以受益的任何其他区域。如本文所使用的，产品可以包括在场所内储存或保持的任何物体或材料，如上文所讨论的。通过非限制性举例的方式，产品可以包括食品、服装、鞋类、电子产品、消费品、装备、车辆、消耗品、包装、配饰、供应品、材料、艺术品、动物、仪器、货板、容器、药品、化妆品、贸易品、物品、设备、机器、器具、机件、工具、家具或场所中可能存在的任何其他物体。在一些实施方案中，场所可以提供用于销售、交换或物物交换、用于展示、用于保管、用于储存、用于配送、和/或用于免费赠送的产品。Disclosed embodiments may include a system for reading wirelessly transmitted tags in a location containing a plurality of wirelessly tagged products and for automatically generating a product distribution planogram. Wirelessly transmitting tags may include any wirelessly detectable device, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon device, a device that includes a microcontroller powered by radio frequency energy, or is configured to transmit capable Any other structure of the detected signal. As used herein, a site may include any area, building or structure in which inventory of objects or materials may be stored or maintained, such as a retail location, store, warehouse, distribution center, logistics center, fulfillment center, manufacturing area, shipping area, storage areas, homes, medical facilities, eating establishments, kitchens, or any other area that could benefit from tracking items. As used herein, product may include any object or material stored or maintained on the premises, as discussed above. By way of non-limiting example, products may include food, clothing, footwear, electronics, consumer products, equipment, vehicles, consumables, packaging, accessories, supplies, materials, artwork, animals, instruments, pallets, containers , medicines, cosmetics, trade goods, articles, equipment, machines, appliances, parts, tools, furniture or any other objects that may be present in the premises. In some embodiments, a venue may offer products for sale, exchange or barter, for display, for safekeeping, for storage, for distribution, and/or for freebies.
系统的实施方案可以通过放置接收器来接收信号以读取场所中的无线传输标签。无线传输标签可以连续地发射信号或者可以在接近于扫描器时被激活。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以是由扫描仪的磁场激活的RFID标签。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括视觉信号。通过非限制性举例的方式，视觉信号可以包括条形码和二维条形码，诸如由专用光学扫描仪或相机捕获的QR码。系统的实施方案可以包括无线传输标签，所述无线传输标签可以包括电源和计算源，并且可以在没有任何激活的情况下发射信号。在一些实施方案中，系统可以结合发射不同形式的信号的多种形式的无线传输标签。Embodiments of the system may place receivers to receive signals to read wirelessly transmitted tags in the premises. Wireless transmitting tags may transmit continuously or may be activated upon proximity to the scanner. In some embodiments, the wirelessly transmitting tag may be an RFID tag activated by the scanner's magnetic field. In some embodiments, wirelessly transmitting tags may include visual signals. By way of non-limiting example, visual signals may include barcodes and two-dimensional barcodes, such as QR codes captured by specialized optical scanners or cameras. Embodiments of the system may include wireless transmitting tags that may include power and computing sources and may transmit signals without any activation. In some embodiments, the system may incorporate multiple forms of wireless transmission tags that emit different forms of signals.
无线传输标签可以与产品相关联，以使产品能够经由标签提供自我识别。如在本公开文本中其他地方所讨论的，无线传输标签的实施方案可以包括适合于附接到任何物体上的任何设备，以便在不使用外部连接的缆线或电线的情况下，视觉地、触觉地、听觉地或电子地识别物体。其他实施方案可以作为制造过程的一部分或稍后嵌入到物品中，例如由零售商嵌入。Wireless transmission tags can be associated with products to enable the products to provide self-identification via the tags. As discussed elsewhere in this disclosure, embodiments of wirelessly transmitting tags may include any device suitable for attachment to any object to visually, Recognize objects tactilely, audibly, or electronically. Other embodiments may be embedded into the item as part of the manufacturing process or later, such as by a retailer.
产品分布陈列图可以包括场所中的产品的任何视觉表示。通过非限制性举例的方式，视觉表示可以包括叠加在场所的平面地图上的产品图像。陈列图可以包括以二维图像或三维图像视觉表示的场所的详细内部，所述二维图像或三维图像具有放置在与场所中的带无线标签的产品的实际放置相匹配的位置中的带无线标签的产品的视觉表示。陈列图可以包括存在于场所中的各种过道和/或货架的详细视觉表示。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以包括在场所的不同货架和过道之间移动的可导航界面。产品放置陈列图可以包括产品在场所中的分布和放置的信息表示。通过非限制性举例的方式，信息表示可以包括叠加在平面地图或场所的其他图形或示意性表示上的产品和/或产品族或类别的符号、图标、象形图、名称或图像。陈列图可以包括场所的内部的草图、或呈二维或三维或透视形式的详细示意图、示图、绘图或其他表示，其叠加有带无线标签的产品在场所中的放置和/或位置的信息表示。陈列图可以包括：在场所的病房、区或部门的细节级别的粗略表示；或在各个固定装置的细节级别的更详细表示；或在各个货架、箱、抽屉、悬挂件或固定装置的其他细分级别的更详细表示；或处于场所的所有者或经营者期望的任何其他级别。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以包括在场所的不同区、区域、过道或固定装置之间移动的可导航界面。Product distribution planograms can include any visual representation of products in a location. By way of non-limiting example, the visual representation may include an image of the product overlaid on a floor plan map of the venue. Planograms may include a detailed interior of a venue visually represented in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional image with wireless tagged products placed in locations that match the actual placement of wirelessly tagged products in the venue. A label's visual representation of a product. Planograms may include detailed visual representations of the various aisles and/or shelves present in the venue. In some embodiments, a planogram may include a navigable interface that moves between different shelves and aisles of a location. Product placement planograms may include an informational representation of the distribution and placement of products within a location. By way of non-limiting example, informational representations may include symbols, icons, pictograms, names or images of products and/or product families or categories overlaid on a flat map or other graphical or schematic representation of a location. Planograms may include sketches of the interior of the premises, or detailed schematics, diagrams, drawings or other representations in two or three dimensions or perspective, overlaid with information on the placement and/or location of wirelessly tagged products within the premises. express. Planograms may include: a rough representation at the level of detail of the wards, sections or departments of the premises; or a more detailed representation at the level of detail of individual fixtures; or other details at the level of individual shelves, bins, drawers, hangings or fixtures. A more detailed representation of grading; or at any other level desired by the owner or operator of the premises. In some embodiments, a planogram may include a navigable interface that moves between different sections, areas, aisles, or fixtures of a venue.
例如，陈列图可以包括场所的地图，包括信息的叠加层，所述叠加层详述了场所中各个物品的指定位置。陈列图可以包括例如商店的地图，所述地图包括基于商店目录的期望层次将商店划分成一个或多个部门，将一个或多个部门细分成一个或多个子部门。陈列图可以包括在商店中的固定装置(例如，货架)、区(例如，过道)或位置上的物品的确切指定分布(可能包括数量和属性)。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以包括工作区域的地图，包括工作区域周围的各种工具和器具的指定放置，可能包括专用工作站和/或需要存在于每个工作站处的装备的位置。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以包括仓库或其他储存位置的地图，包括待位于仓库或其他储存区域中的每个地段、位置、固定装置或货架中的一个或多个物品(可能包括与一个或多个物品相关联的数量或任何其他属性)。For example, a planogram may include a map of a location, including an overlay of information detailing the designated locations of various items in the location. The planogram may include, for example, a map of the store including a division of the store into one or more departments and a subdivision of one or more departments into one or more sub-departments based on a desired hierarchy of the store catalog. A planogram may include an exactly specified distribution (possibly including quantities and attributes) of items on fixtures (eg, shelves), zones (eg, aisles), or locations in the store. In some embodiments, the plan diagram may include a map of the work area, including the designated placement of various tools and implements around the work area, possibly including the location of dedicated work stations and/or equipment that needs to be present at each work station. In some embodiments, a planogram may include a map of a warehouse or other storage location, including one or more items to be located in each lot, location, fixture, or shelf in the warehouse or other storage area (which may include a or quantity or any other attribute associated with multiple items).
陈列图可以使用桌面设备、移动设备、或使用一个或多个输入设备(例如，键盘、鼠标、麦克风、定点设备、触摸屏、或另一输入机制)的任何其他类型的计算设备来查看和交互。替代性地或另外地，陈列图可以被打印，以便由场所中的员工、顾客或访客使用。在系统的一些实施方案中，可以使用头戴式显示器(诸如Occulus VR头戴设备、微软Holo镜头、HTCVive)来观看陈列图。可以使用图像处理技术(诸如Matterport)来生成陈列图，以创建沉浸式三维陈列图。系统的实施方案可以基于用于与陈列图交互的设备以不同方式呈现陈列图。例如，当使用AR/VR头戴设备与陈列图交互时可以三维方式呈现陈列图，并且当使用平板电脑或移动电话与陈列图交互时可以二维平面地图呈现陈列图。Planograms can be viewed and interacted with using desktop devices, mobile devices, or any other type of computing device using one or more input devices (eg, keyboard, mouse, microphone, pointing device, touch screen, or another input mechanism). Alternatively or additionally, the planogram may be printed for use by employees, customers or visitors at the venue. In some embodiments of the system, the planogram may be viewed using a head mounted display (such as an Occulus VR headset, Microsoft Holo lens, HTC Vive). Planograms can be generated using image processing techniques such as Matterport to create immersive three-dimensional planograms. Implementations of the system may present the planogram in different ways based on the device used to interact with the planogram. For example, a planogram may be presented in a three-dimensional manner when an AR/VR headset is used to interact with the planogram, and a two-dimensional flat map may be presented when a tablet or mobile phone is used to interact with the planogram.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方所描述的至少一个处理器。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成从场所中的多个接收器接收来自多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中无线信号包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。在一些实施方案中，无线信号包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成访问将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，数据结构11006可以包括带无线标签的产品与诸如分类信息等附加信息之间的关联。Disclosed implementations may include at least one processor as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to receive wireless signals from a plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in the venue, wherein the wireless signals include information related to each of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. The ID associated with the product with the wireless tag. In some embodiments, the wireless signal includes an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to access a data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with classification information. By way of example, as shown in Figure 11, data structure 11006 may include an association between a wirelessly tagged product and additional information such as classification information.
如本文所使用的，分类信息可以包括描述一个或多个带无线标签的产品的一个或多个特性的一项或多项数据，其可以允许将一个或多个产品按类别或层次进行组织和/或布置。与带无线标签的产品相关联的分类信息可以用于以分层方式将带无线标签的产品分组成一个或多个组或子组，使得任何产品在每个层次级别上被指派单个分组。所得到的分类可以以目录的形式布置，所述目录根据所有产品的层次关联将其列出，向下直到最终层次级别，其中每个产品被指派唯一的码、号码或其他标识符。通过非限制性举例的方式，分类信息可以包括以下各项中的一项或多项：产品的名称、产品的尺寸、产品的类型(例如，固体、液体、凝胶、糊状物)、产品的描述(例如，油、清洁剂、服装)、产品的品牌名称、产品制造商的名称、不可见的元信息(诸如系列名称、春季或秋季系列)、带无线标签的产品的用途、或与带无线标签的产品相关联的任何其他信息。分类信息还可以包括产品的不同特性的组合，包括尺寸、形状、颜色、以及上述其他信息。分类信息可以用于帮助确定放置在场所中的实际产品的位置。通过举例的方式，分类信息可以基于服装商店中的被布置到第一级别层次的物品目录，诸如“男装”、“女装”、“童装”和“配件”。“女装”层次可以进一步划分到第二级别层次，诸如“衬衫”、“半身裙”、“连衣裙”、“裤子”、“内衣”、“鞋类”和“外套”。“裤子”层次可以进一步划分到第三级别层次，诸如“牛仔裤”、“西裤”、“短裤”和“家居裤”。还可以包括附加的层次级别。作为另一个例子，分类信息可以基于被布置到第一级别层次的工作区域目录等，诸如“动力工具”、“非动力工具”、“螺母和螺栓”、“螺丝和钉子”、“消耗品”和“液体和筒罐”。“非动力工具”层次可以进一步划分到第二级别层次，诸如“锤子”、“螺丝刀”、“尖锐工具”、“镊子和钳子”和“精细工具”。“螺丝刀”层次可以进一步划分到第三级别层次，诸如“十字头”、“平头”、“六角头”和“其他”。还可以包括附加的层次级别。产品的分类信息可以包括产品在给定目录中与之相关联的所有层次级别。As used herein, classification information may include one or more data describing one or more characteristics of one or more wirelessly tagged products, which may allow one or more products to be organized into categories or hierarchies and /or layout. Classification information associated with wirelessly tagged products may be used to group wirelessly tagged products into one or more groups or subgroups in a hierarchical manner such that any product is assigned a single grouping at each hierarchical level. The resulting classification may be arranged in the form of a catalog that lists all products according to their hierarchical associations, down to the final hierarchical level, where each product is assigned a unique code, number, or other identifier. By way of non-limiting example, the classification information may include one or more of the following: name of the product, size of the product, type of product (e.g., solid, liquid, gel, paste), product description (e.g., oil, detergent, clothing), the brand name of the product, the name of the product manufacturer, invisible meta-information (such as collection name, spring or fall collection), the purpose of the product with the wireless tag, or the Any other information associated with the wirelessly tagged product. Classification information may also include combinations of different characteristics of the product, including size, shape, color, and other information described above. Classification information can be used to help determine the location of actual products to be placed on the premises. By way of example, the classification information may be based on catalogs of items in a clothing store that are arranged to the first level hierarchy, such as "men's clothing," "women's clothing," "children's clothing," and "accessories." The "women's clothing" hierarchy can be further divided into secondary hierarchies such as "shirts", "skirts", "dresses", "pants", "underwear", "footwear" and "outerwear". The "pants" hierarchy can be further divided into third-level hierarchies such as "jeans," "suit trousers," "shorts," and "house pants." Additional hierarchical levels can also be included. As another example, the classification information may be based on work area catalogs, etc. arranged to the first level hierarchy, such as "power tools", "non-power tools", "nuts and bolts", "screws and nails", "consumables" and "Liquids and Cartridges." The "non-power tools" hierarchy can be further divided into secondary hierarchies such as "hammers," "screwdrivers," "sharp tools," "tweezers and pliers," and "fine tools." The "screwdriver" hierarchy can be further divided into third level hierarchies such as "phillips head", "flat head", "hex head" and "other". Additional hierarchical levels can also be included. Classification information for a product can include all hierarchical levels that the product is associated with in a given catalog.
所公开的实施方案可以使用分类信息来提供关于新产品可以在场所中放置的位置的推荐。例如，属于某一品牌的新服装产品可以与同一品牌的其他服装产品一起放置。在另一个例子中，特小号尺寸的新服装产品可以与属于不同品牌和制造商的所有其他特小号服装产品一起放置在场所的小号地段中。可以使用不同分类信息与场所中的位置之间的映射表将分类信息与场所中的位置相关联。分类信息与场所内的位置之间的映射可以存储在数据结构中。在一些实施方案中，分类信息与场所内的位置之间的映射可以使用机器学习模型来确定，所述机器学习模型是使用场所位置与产品的分类信息之间的过去关系以及其他相关信息(诸如销售数据、日历数据(诸如假期)、趋势数据、制造预测、递送预测等)来训练的。带无线标签的产品可以是不同组的一部分。例如，基于产品尺寸和品牌的分类信息可以导致服装场所考虑将所有小号服装放置在单个位置或将匹配品牌的相同服装放置在一个位置。Disclosed embodiments may use classification information to provide recommendations regarding where new products may be placed in a venue. For example, new clothing products belonging to a certain brand can be placed alongside other clothing products from the same brand. In another example, a new apparel product in an extra-small size may be placed in a small section of a venue along with all other extra-small apparel products belonging to different brands and manufacturers. Classification information may be associated with locations in a venue using a mapping table between different classification information and locations in the venue. The mapping between classification information and locations within a venue can be stored in a data structure. In some embodiments, the mapping between category information and locations within a venue may be determined using a machine learning model using past relationships between venue locations and category information for products as well as other relevant information such as Sales data, calendar data (such as holidays), trend data, manufacturing forecasts, delivery forecasts, etc.). Products with wireless tags can be part of different groups. For example, assortment information based on product size and brand could lead a clothing location to consider placing all small size clothing in a single location or placing identical clothing of matching brands in one location.
在一些实施方案中，分类信息包括产品型号码，并且其中陈列图在地图上指示共享产品型号码的至少一个产品组的位置。如本文所使用的，产品型号码可以包括与作为库存管理系统、库存保持系统或其他此类数据管理平台的一部分的产品、对象、材料或任何其他物品的类型唯一相关联的数字、码或其他形式的数据。产品型号码的例子包括SKU码、EPC码、条形码、ISBN码、产品号、零件号、目录号、或任何其他标识标记。产品型号码可以包括标识符，例如，描述型号、品牌名称、制造商、或与产品相关联的其他分类信息的文本、图形、数字、字母数字或数字表示。在一些实施方案中，产品型号码可以包括由带无线标签的产品的制造商提供的型号。在一些实施方案中，产品型号码可以在用于确定分类信息的匹配特性内包括产品的子组。例如，一组膝上型计算机产品可以具有相同的型号码，所述型号码具有一些共同的硬件规格，但是可以包括不同的可配置存储器(RAM)的膝上型计算机。替代性地或另外地，一组膝上型计算机可以仅在它们共享所有硬件规格(包括相同的可配置存储器(RAM))时才具有相同的型号码。用于产品型号码的标识符可以包括表示产品的不同特性的部分。例如，膝上型计算机产品的产品型号码可以包括处理器特性(例如，时钟速度、L2高速缓存大小)、存储器大小(例如，16GB、32GB)和配置(例如，单卡、双卡)、硬盘类型(例如，磁盘、NAND闪存、混合盘)。在一些实施方案中，产品型号码可以使用助记符来表示不同特性。例如，在产品型号码中可以使用硬盘类型的首字母(例如，“M”用于磁盘，“F”用于闪存)。In some embodiments, the classification information includes a product type number, and wherein the planogram indicates the location of at least one product group on the map that shares the product type number. As used herein, a product type number may include a number, code, or other number uniquely associated with a type of product, object, material, or any other item that is part of an inventory management system, inventory retention system, or other such data management platform. form of data. Examples of product type numbers include SKU numbers, EPC numbers, bar codes, ISBN numbers, product numbers, part numbers, catalog numbers, or any other identifying mark. The product type number may include an identifier, such as a text, graphic, numeric, alphanumeric, or numerical representation that describes the model number, brand name, manufacturer, or other classification information associated with the product. In some embodiments, the product type number may include a model number provided by the manufacturer of the wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, product type numbers may include subgroups of products within the matching characteristics used to determine classification information. For example, a group of laptop computer products may have the same model number with some common hardware specifications, but may include different laptops with configurable memory (RAM). Alternatively or additionally, a group of laptops may have the same model number only if they share all hardware specifications, including the same configurable memory (RAM). The identifier for the product type number may include portions representing different characteristics of the product. For example, a laptop product's model number may include processor characteristics (e.g., clock speed, L2 cache size), memory size (e.g., 16GB, 32GB) and configuration (e.g., single card, dual card), hard drive Type (for example, disk, NAND flash, hybrid disk). In some embodiments, the product type number may use mnemonics to represent different characteristics. For example, you can use the first letter of the hard drive type in the product model number (e.g., "M" for disk, "F" for flash memory).
在一些实施方案中，陈列图在场所的地图上指示共享产品型号码的至少一个产品组的位置。地图上的位置可以是场所的地图中的轮廓(其指示场所中的产品组所占用的总空间)、地图上的图标(其指示可以找到产品组的区域、区或固定装置)或大致指向场所的地图中产品组中的至少一个产品在场所中所处位置的指针。这种方式的指示可以导致地图上的一位置，所述位置描绘了可以大致在场所中找到产品组的位置或者精确地匹配产品组在场所中的位置。在一些实施方案中，所述位置可以用产品的视觉表示来表示，所述视觉表示被呈现为实际产品的图像、品牌或制造商的图像、表示产品的图标、表示产品的文本或其他码、或可以在陈列图的图例中解释的一些其他标志，或通过访问数据库来解释陈列图上对于一个或多个产品组的近似或准确位置的各种指示。在一些实施方案中，所述位置可以包括一类产品的通用图像。例如，汤产品可以使用通用汤罐来表示。地图中的位置指示可以包括突出显示产品的图像。例如，除了产品组之外，系统可以将地图上叠加的产品图像置灰。诸如产品型号码等附加产品细节可以帮助识别共享其他分类信息和共享位置的产品。例如，表示杂货店场所的陈列图可以具有若干乳制品产品，诸如来自不同制造商的牛奶纸盒，其中来自相同制造商的牛奶纸盒具有共享的分类信息。共享的分类信息可以用于确定产品的过道位置。共享产品型号码的那些产品的子集可以位于共享过道位置内的共同货架上。通过举例的方式，如图23所展示的，具有共享分类信息的产品组可以包括如围绕组23002和23008所展示的轮廓形式的指示符。例如，存在于由陈列图23001表示的场所中的蔬菜产品、水果和其他产品可以共享素食食品的共同产品型号码，并且因此可以具有指示所有这些产品所共享的位置的轮廓23002。图23中仅示出了围绕蔬菜产品的附加轮廓23008，以指示共享蔬菜的产品型号码的蔬菜产品。In some embodiments, the planogram indicates the location of at least one product group that shares a product type number on a map of the venue. The location on the map can be an outline in the map of the premises (which indicates the total space occupied by the product group in the premises), an icon on the map (which indicates the area, section or fixture where the product group can be found) or generally point to the premises A pointer to the location of at least one product in the product group in the map of . Indicating in this manner may result in a location on a map depicting approximately where the product group can be found in the venue or exactly matching the location of the product group in the venue. In some embodiments, the location may be represented by a visual representation of the product, the visual representation being presented as an image of the actual product, an image of the brand or manufacturer, an icon representing the product, text or other code representing the product, Or some other sign that can be explained in the legend of the planogram, or by accessing a database to interpret various indications of the approximate or exact location of one or more product groups on the planogram. In some embodiments, the location may include a generic image of a type of product. For example, a soup product could be represented using a generic soup can. Location indications in the map can include images highlighting products. For example, in addition to product groups, the system can gray out product images overlaid on the map. Additional product details such as model numbers can help identify products that share other classification information and a shared location. For example, a planogram representing a grocery store location may have several dairy products, such as milk cartons from different manufacturers, where milk cartons from the same manufacturer have shared category information. Shared assortment information can be used to determine aisle locations for products. A subset of those products that share product type numbers may be located on common shelves within a shared aisle location. By way of example, as shown in Figure 23, product groups with shared classification information may include indicators in the form of outlines as shown around groups 23002 and 23008. For example, vegetable products, fruits, and other products present in the location represented by planogram 23001 may share a common product type number for vegetarian food, and thus may have an outline 23002 indicating the location shared by all these products. Only additional outlines 23008 around the vegetable products are shown in Figure 23 to indicate vegetable products that share the product type number of the vegetable.
在一些实施方案中，分类信息包括用于每个带无线标签的产品的相关联的产品型号码，其中陈列图指示多组带无线标签的产品的位置，其中每组带无线标签的产品共享共同的产品型号码。如上文所讨论的，在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以用视觉表示来指示共享共同产品型号码的带无线标签的产品组。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以包括多个这样的视觉表示，每个视觉表示代表共享共同产品型号码的带无线标签的产品组。例如，在电子产品场所中，具有相同硬件规格的膝上型计算机产品针对不同量的存储器可以具有不同的型号码。陈列图可以包括视觉表示，所述视觉表示指示共享产品型号码的具有相同存储器大小的诸如膝上型计算机等产品的子集。In some embodiments, the classification information includes an associated product type number for each wirelessly tagged product, wherein the planogram indicates the location of multiple groups of wirelessly tagged products, wherein each group of wirelessly tagged products share a common product type number. As discussed above, in some embodiments, a planogram may use a visual representation to indicate groups of wirelessly tagged products that share a common product type number. In some embodiments, a planogram may include a plurality of such visual representations, each visual representation representing a group of wirelessly tagged products that share a common product type number. For example, in an electronics facility, laptop computer products with the same hardware specifications may have different model numbers for different amounts of memory. The planogram may include a visual representation indicating a subset of products, such as laptop computers, that share a product type number and have the same memory size.
在一些实施方案中，分类信息对于每个带无线标签的产品包括相关联的产品族指示符，并且其中陈列图通过产品族来划分场所的地图。如本文所使用的，产品族可以包括具有匹配的功能性或用途或某一其他匹配特性的产品组。如本文所使用的，产品的功能性包括操作所需的特征、用户可以使用的特征、或者当用户通电或操作时产品的功能。例如，在电器商店类型的场所中找到的各种空气净化器风扇可以具有清洁空气中的各种杂质的相同功能，并且将被认为是同一产品族的一部分。产品的用途是基于用户使用该产品的目的来确定的。例如，不同的游戏机(例如，索尼游戏机、微软Xbox、任天堂Switch)旨在玩视频游戏的相同用途，尽管它们不同地运作，并且将被视为同一产品组的一部分。产品族可以包括不同品牌的产品和不同的制造商。在一些实施方案中，可以允许用户配置哪些品牌和制造商的产品可以被包括在一个产品族下。在一些实施方案中，特定品牌的产品或由特定制造商制造的产品可以被指定为属于与其他品牌或制造商分开的产品族，尽管具有相似或共同的功能或用途。例如，眼镜商店可以仅向属于特定品牌(例如，雷朋)的眼镜指定其展示区域，尽管在商店的其他区域中还具有其他品牌的太阳镜、阅读眼镜和光学眼镜，并且这些眼镜是根据用途和功能性布置在那里的，而不是按照品牌。在一些实施方案中，用户还可以被允许配置匹配功能性、用途或任何其他对用户在产品编录中具有优势的特征的定义。例如，产品族可以由上文讨论的目录中的一个或多个层次级别表示。In some embodiments, the classification information includes an associated product family indicator for each wirelessly tagged product, and wherein the planogram divides the map of the location by product family. As used herein, a product family may include a group of products with matching functionality or use or some other matching characteristic. As used herein, functionality of a product includes features required for operation, features available to a user, or the functionality of the product when powered on or operated by a user. For example, the various air purifier fans found in an appliance store type establishment may have the same function of cleaning the air of various impurities and would be considered part of the same product family. The purpose of a product is determined based on the purpose for which the user uses the product. For example, different game consoles (e.g., Sony Playstation, Microsoft Xbox, Nintendo Switch) are intended for the same purpose of playing video games, although they operate differently and would be considered part of the same product group. Product families can include products from different brands and manufacturers. In some embodiments, a user may be allowed to configure which brands and manufacturers of products may be included under a product family. In some embodiments, a particular brand of product or product manufactured by a particular manufacturer may be designated as belonging to a separate product family from other brands or manufacturers, despite having similar or common functions or uses. For example, an eyewear store may designate its display area only to glasses belonging to a specific brand (e.g., Ray-Ban), although other brands of sunglasses, reading glasses, and optical glasses are available in other areas of the store and are displayed according to purpose and It's put there functionally, not by brand. In some embodiments, the user may also be allowed to configure definitions that match functionality, usage, or any other characteristics that would give the user an advantage in the product catalog. For example, a product family may be represented by one or more hierarchical levels in the catalog discussed above.
如本文所使用的，产品族指示符可以是到产品族信息的链接。指示符可以是叠加在陈列图上的视觉码或标牌，并且被发布以指示产品组共享功能性或用途。在一些实施方案中，产品族指示符可以按视觉格式呈现为不同的颜色，按文本格式呈现为不同的标牌。产品族指示符是指示符(上述)的形式之一，其可以被陈列图生成器用于包括在陈列图中，以指示陈列图所示的所有产品中将被认为是一族的产品的子集。产品族可以基于产品的功能性和用途来定义，并且产品中的一些可以具有不同的品牌并且由不同的制造商制造。通过举例的方式，描绘一个或多个层次级别(例如，产品族)的链接和/或视觉指示符可以显示在陈列图上。As used herein, a product family indicator may be a link to product family information. Indicators may be visual codes or signage that are overlaid on the planogram and published to indicate that product groups share functionality or use. In some embodiments, product family indicators may be presented as different colors in a visual format and as different signage in a textual format. A product family indicator is one of the forms of indicators (described above) that can be used by a planogram generator for inclusion in a planogram to indicate the subset of all products shown in the planogram that are to be considered a family. Product families can be defined based on the functionality and use of the products, and some of the products can have different brands and be made by different manufacturers. By way of example, links and/or visual indicators depicting one or more hierarchical levels (eg, product families) may be displayed on the planogram.
如上文所讨论的，分类信息可以包括各种产品之间的共同特性，包括共同的族信息。分类信息可以包括产品族信息或可以链接到产品族信息。在一些实施方案中，分类信息可以链接到产品族的指示符。在一些实施方案中，产品族指示符可以包括围绕陈列图的其中放置共享不同产品细节的产品的位置的轮廓。在一些实施方案中，产品族指示符可以包括例如文本格式的位置列表、对陈列图中的产品的不同视觉表示的突出显示、对产品的视觉表示的颜色编码的突出显示、基于产品型号码的位置轮廓的颜色编码的突出显示、产品族或其他共享的分类信息、或可以帮助区分产品族的任何其他类型的视觉表示。As discussed above, classification information may include common characteristics among various products, including common family information. Classification information may include product family information or may be linked to product family information. In some embodiments, classification information may be linked to indicators of product families. In some embodiments, the product family indicator may include an outline surrounding the location of the planogram where products sharing different product details are placed. In some embodiments, product family indicators may include, for example, a list of locations in text format, highlighting of different visual representations of products in a planogram, color-coded highlighting of visual representations of products, product type number-based highlighting. Color-coded highlighting of location outlines, product families or other shared classification information, or any other type of visual representation that can help differentiate product families.
陈列图可以使用分类信息(诸如产品族指示符)来提供场所中存在的不同产品族的视觉表示。例如，与海产品族中的所有产品相比，超市场所的陈列图可以以不同的颜色或使用不同的图形图标展示蔬菜产品族中的所有产品。因此，陈列图可以提供指示不同产品族的视觉表示。通过举例的方式，如图23所展示的，陈列图23001可以包括被示出为矩形条的产品族指示符23012和23014，标识作为产品族的一部分的产品组。Planograms may use classification information, such as product family indicators, to provide a visual representation of the different product families present in a location. For example, a planogram in a supermarket location could show all the products in the vegetable product family in different colors or using different graphic icons compared to all the products in the seafood family. Therefore, planograms can provide a visual representation indicating different product families. By way of example, as shown in Figure 23, planogram 23001 may include product family indicators 23012 and 23014, shown as rectangular bars, identifying product groups that are part of the product family.
在一些实施方案中，分类信息包括产品型号码，并且其中数据结构包含将每个产品型号码与产品族相关联的信息，其中至少一个处理器被配置成访问数据结构并且从与每个无线标签相关联的每个确定的型号码来查明相关联的产品族。在一些实施方案中，产品型号码可以被存储在存储分类信息的相同数据结构中。例如，产品型号码可以与分类信息在同一记录中或者被链接到包含分类信息的记录。存储在数据结构中的分类信息可以另外地或替代性地包括除产品型号码以外的产品族信息并且可以包括相关联的关系。形成产品族的产品组可以是以分层方式的另一个产品族的一部分，其中在顶部的产品族在产品之间具有最少数量的匹配特性，并且在底部的产品具有最大数量的匹配特性。例如，各种计算设备的电子制造商可以具有各种膝上型计算机，其具有属于膝上型计算机产品族的产品型号码。在一些实施方案中，产品族信息可以是分层的。例如，在计算设备的以上例子中，膝上型计算机产品族可以是计算设备产品族的一部分。在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以包含将每个产品型号码与产品族相关联的信息。在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以包括将产品ID与各种产品细节(包括产品型号码)相关联的哈希图。在一些实施方案中，产品型号码可以是产品ID。数据结构针对每个产品可以包括多个哈希图，所述多个哈希图具有产品ID与匹配产品族层次的不同级别的产品细节之间的映射。例如，数据结构可以存储产品的型号码与跨型号共有的产品细节之间的第一映射。例如，表示膝上型计算机的产品型号码可以包括共同的产品细节，诸如屏幕尺寸、键盘中的键的数量、重量、相机分辨率、CPU速度，但是可以不包括可配置的网络适配器MAC地址。在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以存储每个产品序列号与专用于产品实例的产品细节之间的第二映射。在以上例子中，第二映射可以包括膝上型计算机产品的实例的唯一序列号，所述膝上型计算机产品被映射到产品实例中包括的网络适配器的网络MAC地址，或者被映射到安装在具有唯一序列号的特定设备上的操作系统(OS)的许可密钥。In some embodiments, the classification information includes a product type number, and wherein the data structure contains information associating each product type number with a product family, wherein at least one processor is configured to access the data structure and retrieve information from the data structure associated with each wireless tag. Associate each identified model number to identify the associated product family. In some embodiments, the product type number may be stored in the same data structure that stores the classification information. For example, the product type number may be in the same record as the classification information or linked to a record containing the classification information. The classification information stored in the data structure may additionally or alternatively include product family information other than product type numbers and may include associated relationships. The product groups that form a product family can be part of another product family in a hierarchical manner, where the product family at the top has the least number of matching features between products, and the products at the bottom have the greatest number of matching features. For example, an electronics manufacturer of various computing devices may have various laptop computers with product model numbers that belong to a laptop computer product family. In some embodiments, product family information may be hierarchical. For example, in the above example of computing devices, the laptop product family may be part of the computing device product family. In some embodiments, the data structure may contain information that associates each product type number with a product family. In some embodiments, the data structure may include a hash map that associates product IDs with various product details, including product type numbers. In some embodiments, the product type number may be a product ID. The data structure may include, for each product, a plurality of hashmaps with mappings between product IDs and different levels of product details that match the product family hierarchy. For example, the data structure may store a first mapping between a product's model number and product details that are common across models. For example, a model number representing a laptop may include common product details such as screen size, number of keys in the keyboard, weight, camera resolution, CPU speed, but may not include a configurable network adapter MAC address. In some embodiments, the data structure may store a second mapping between each product serial number and product details specific to the product instance. In the above example, the second mapping may include a unique serial number of an instance of a laptop product that is mapped to the network MAC address of a network adapter included in the product instance, or that is mapped to the network adapter installed on the product instance. A license key for the operating system (OS) on a specific device with a unique serial number.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成访问数据结构，并且从与每个无线标签相关联的每个确定的型号码来查明相关联的产品族。系统可以利用处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)访问数据结构以基于给定的产品型号码来查明所映射的产品族。如上所述，数据结构(例如，图11的数据结构1106)可以包括在使用产品型号码表示的产品ID与产品族之间的哈希图映射。处理器可以将产品型号码作为输入的键提供到哈希图以查找产品族。在一些实施方案中，可以由用户通过选择产品来搜索产品族细节并进而提供与所选择的产品相关联的产品型号码，来提供产品型号码。通过提供“产品型号码”串作为键，可以从与存储在不同哈希图中的产品相关联的各种产品细节访问产品型号码。In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to access the data structure and ascertain the associated product family from each determined model number associated with each wireless tag. The system may utilize a processor (eg, processor 11004 of Figure 11) to access the data structure to ascertain the mapped product family based on a given product type number. As described above, a data structure (eg, data structure 1106 of Figure 11) may include a hashmap mapping between product IDs represented using product type numbers and product families. The processor can provide the product type number as an input key to the hash map to find the product family. In some embodiments, the product type number may be provided by the user by selecting the product, searching for product family details and then providing the product type number associated with the selected product. By providing a "product type number" string as a key, the product type number can be accessed from various product details associated with products stored in different hashmaps.
一些公开的实施方案可以涉及从无线信号确定带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品在场所中的位置。例如，一个或多个处理器可以利用无线信号的特性来确定与信号生成无线传输标签相关联的带无线标签的产品的位置。一些实施方案可以涉及基于所接收的无线信号的振幅、相位、到达角或到达时间中的至少一项来确定位置。一个或多个接收器可以基于由接收器接收的无线信号的角度向系统提供与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签的位置。一个或多个接收器可以另外地或替代性地提供无线信号在一个或多个接收器处的振幅、相位、角度和到达时间。至少一个处理器可以基于关于由接收器提供的无线信号的信息确定带无线标签的产品的位置。在一些实施方案中，无线信号的特性(诸如到达角和时间)和场所中的相关联位置可以被存储在数据结构中。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以利用所存储的无线信号特性与位置之间的映射来检索与新接收的无线信号相关联的位置信息。通过非限制性例子，如图9所展示的，附接到带无线标签的产品的一个或多个标签1100可以经由网络11002通过一个或多个接收器11300a-g共享无线信号。一个或多个处理器11004可以基于所接收的无线信号来确定与带无线标签的产品相关联的位置信息。在一些实施方案中，可以训练机器学习模型来确定带无线标签的产品的位置。例如，无线信号的已知位置和相关联的特性(例如，角度、振幅、或其他信号特性)可以被用作训练数据来训练机器学习模型。然后可以由至少一个处理器执行经训练的机器学习模型以通过将无线信号的一个或多个特性作为输入提供给经训练的机器学习模型来确定带无线标签的产品的位置。Some disclosed embodiments may involve determining the location of each of the wirelessly tagged products in a venue from wireless signals. For example, one or more processors may utilize characteristics of the wireless signal to determine the location of a wirelessly tagged product associated with the signal-generating wireless transmission tag. Some embodiments may involve determining a location based on at least one of amplitude, phase, angle of arrival, or time of arrival of a received wireless signal. One or more receivers may provide the system with the location of a wirelessly transmitted tag associated with the wirelessly tagged product based on the angle of the wireless signal received by the receiver. The one or more receivers may additionally or alternatively provide the amplitude, phase, angle, and arrival time of the wireless signal at the one or more receivers. At least one processor may determine the location of the wirelessly tagged product based on information about the wireless signal provided by the receiver. In some embodiments, characteristics of the wireless signal (such as angle of arrival and time) and associated location in the venue may be stored in a data structure. In some embodiments, at least one processor may utilize a stored mapping between wireless signal characteristics and locations to retrieve location information associated with newly received wireless signals. By way of non-limiting example, as shown in Figure 9, one or more tags 1100 attached to a wirelessly tagged product may share wireless signals via one or more receivers 11300a-g via a network 11002. One or more processors 11004 may determine location information associated with the wirelessly tagged product based on the received wireless signals. In some embodiments, a machine learning model can be trained to determine the location of wirelessly tagged products. For example, known locations and associated characteristics (eg, angle, amplitude, or other signal characteristics) of wireless signals can be used as training data to train a machine learning model. The trained machine learning model may then be executed by at least one processor to determine the location of the wirelessly tagged product by providing one or more characteristics of the wireless signal as input to the trained machine learning model.
在一些实施方案中，系统可以在从与属于相同产品族或共享相同产品型号码的带无线标签的产品相关联的每个无线传输标签接收到无线信号的多个实例时确定带无线标签的产品的位置。在一些实施方案中，系统可以在一定时间段内从无线传输标签接收无线信号时确定带无线标签的产品的位置。例如，至少一个处理器可以基于无线信号的特性(例如，振幅、相位、角度)确定发射的无线信号的起点位置，并且进而确定带无线标签的产品位置，如上所述。处理器可以将所确定的位置指定为临时位置，直到从同一位置发射阈值数量的无线信号(包括带无线标签的产品的ID)为止。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以在完成位置与带无线标签的产品的关联之前接收无线信号的特性达设定时间段(例如，一小时、一天、一周或任何其他预定时间段)。系统的实施方案可以允许配置实例数量和接收与无线传输标签相关联的无线信号的时间量。实施方案可以使用在一定时间段内收集的信号来确定在场所中可能出现的信号特性的可能范围。例如，服装场所可以将相同服装物品的多个副本堆叠成一堆。多个副本可以各自与无线传输标签相关联。不同服装物品的无线传输标签可以基于它们在场所中在过道的多个货架上的放置而生成具有不同特性的无线信号。在另一个场景中，由与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签发射的无线信号可以被不同的接收器接收，从而导致与相同产品的不同实例发射的信号相关联的不同特性。在又另一个场景中，存在于场所中的发射无线信号(例如，移动电话、寻呼机、其他射频信号发射设备)或以其他方式干扰无线信号(例如，在场所周围移动并在不同时间在不同标签与不同读取器之间阻挡不同信号的人)的其他实体可能使来源于带无线标签的产品的无线信号失真，导致随时间推移接收到具有不同特性的信号。所公开的系统的处理器可以存储一定时间段内的各种信号的特性以确定表示场所中的位置的信号特性的值的范围，并且如果新的无线信号特性值落入所存储的值的范围内，则标识位置。In some embodiments, the system may determine a wirelessly tagged product upon receiving multiple instances of wireless signals from each wirelessly transmitting tag associated with a wirelessly tagged product that belongs to the same product family or shares the same product model number. s position. In some embodiments, the system may determine the location of a wirelessly tagged product while receiving wireless signals from the wirelessly transmitting tag within a certain period of time. For example, at least one processor may determine the origin location of the transmitted wireless signal based on characteristics of the wireless signal (eg, amplitude, phase, angle), and thereby determine the location of the wirelessly tagged product, as described above. The processor may designate the determined location as a temporary location until a threshold number of wireless signals (including the ID of the wirelessly tagged product) are transmitted from the same location. In some embodiments, at least one processor may receive characteristics of the wireless signal for a set period of time (eg, one hour, one day, one week, or any other predetermined period of time) before completing the association of the location with the wirelessly tagged product. Embodiments of the system may allow configuration of the number of instances and the amount of time to receive wireless signals associated with wirelessly transmitting tags. Embodiments may use signals collected over a period of time to determine the likely range of signal characteristics that may occur in a venue. For example, a clothing location could stack multiple copies of the same clothing item into a pile. Multiple copies can each be associated with a wireless transmission tag. Wireless transmitting tags for different clothing items can generate wireless signals with different characteristics based on their placement on multiple shelves in an aisle in a location. In another scenario, wireless signals transmitted by a wireless transmitting tag associated with a wirelessly tagged product may be received by different receivers, resulting in different characteristics associated with signals transmitted by different instances of the same product. In yet another scenario, there are devices present in the venue that emit wireless signals (e.g., mobile phones, pagers, other radio frequency signal transmitting devices) or otherwise interfere with wireless signals (e.g., move around the venue and tag different tags at different times). Wireless signals originating from products with wireless tags may be distorted by other entities blocking different signals between different readers, resulting in signals with different characteristics being received over time. The processor of the disclosed system may store characteristics of various signals over a period of time to determine a range of values representing signal characteristics for a location in a venue, and if a new wireless signal characteristic value falls within the stored range of values Within, the location is identified.
一些实施方案可以涉及在数据结构中对带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID执行查找，以确定与带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的产品分类信息。一个或多个处理器可以例如使用标识信息(诸如标签ID)确定与带无线标签的产品相关的分类信息。例如，一个或多个处理器可以搜索存储与标签ID相关联的分类信息的数据结构。通过举例的方式，在查找分类信息中利用的数据结构可以包括哈希图，所述哈希图可以具有包括带无线标签的产品的ID和值的键，所述值具有一个或多个产品细节，诸如产品名称、尺寸、技术规格、制造商名称、品牌名称、分类信息和/或与产品相关联的任何其他信息或数据。在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以包括指向包含产品细节或产品细节的分类信息部分的存储位置(例如，存储器位置)的键。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以将由与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签发射的无线信号中包括的数据或信息转换成与带无线标签的产品相关联的标签ID。转换可以包括组合不同的数据(例如，产品序列号、无线信号接收时间戳、无线信号特性(诸如振幅和角度))以唯一地识别产品。例如，与具有无线传输标签的服装产品相关联的唯一标签ID可以包括诸如品牌名称、产品名称和尺寸等信息。系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以用于转换所接收的无线信号中的数据以生成标签ID，并且通过使用标签ID在上文定义的数据结构中包括的哈希图中查找产品分类信息的位置来使用其访问产品分类信息。处理器然后可以访问所识别的存储位置以检索分类信息。Some embodiments may involve performing a lookup in a data structure for each ID of each of the wireless tagged products to determine the ID associated with each of the wireless tagged products. product classification information. One or more processors may determine classification information associated with the wirelessly tagged product, for example, using identification information such as a tag ID. For example, one or more processors may search a data structure that stores classification information associated with a tag ID. By way of example, the data structure utilized in looking up classification information may include a hash map, which may have keys including the ID of the wirelessly tagged product and a value having one or more product details. , such as product name, dimensions, technical specifications, manufacturer name, brand name, classification information and/or any other information or data associated with the product. In some embodiments, the data structure may include keys pointing to storage locations (eg, memory locations) that contain product details or portions of classification information for product details. In some embodiments, at least one processor may convert data or information included in a wireless signal transmitted by a wireless transmission tag associated with the wirelessly tagged product into a tag ID associated with the wirelessly tagged product. Transformation may include combining disparate data (eg, product serial number, wireless signal reception timestamp, wireless signal characteristics such as amplitude and angle) to uniquely identify the product. For example, a unique tag ID associated with an apparel product with a wirelessly transmitted tag may include information such as brand name, product name, and size. A processor of the system (e.g., processor 11004 of Figure 11) may be used to convert data in the received wireless signal to generate a tag ID, and by using the tag ID in a hash map included in the data structure defined above Find the location of the product category information and use it to access the product category information. The processor can then access the identified storage location to retrieve the classification information.
一些实施方案可以涉及使用每个带无线标签的产品的所确定的位置和所确定的产品分类信息来生成针对场所的陈列图，其中陈列图在场所的地图上指示共享共同分类信息的带无线标签的产品组的位置。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以基于产品分类信息从数据存储装置(例如，图11的数据结构11006)检索一个或多个带无线标签的产品的一个或多个视觉、文本、图标图形、示意、情境性或其他表示，以生成陈列图。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以另外地或替代性地向陈列图生成器模块提供一个或多个带无线标签的产品的先前确定的位置信息。至少一个处理器可以执行陈列图生成器模块，以将与一个或多个带无线标签的产品相关联的一个或多个表示插入到陈列图中的对应位置中。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以使用与各个带无线标签的产品相关联的位置来确定限定场所中的产品类型的开始和结束位置的位置边界。产品的类型可以指分类信息、产品型号码和/或产品族。例如，位置边界可以确定过道内的一个或多个货架和/或每个带无线标签的产品可位于其中的一个或多个货架内的坐标。因此，例如，在一些实施方案中，由陈列图生成器生成的陈列图可以在地图上指示共享共同分类信息的带无线标签的产品组的场所位置。Some embodiments may involve using the determined location of each wirelessly tagged product and the determined product classification information to generate a planogram for a venue, wherein the planogram indicates on a map of the venue the wirelessly tagged products that share common classification information. The location of the product group. In some embodiments, at least one processor may retrieve one or more visual, textual, iconographic graphics for one or more wirelessly tagged products from a data storage device (e.g., data structure 11006 of Figure 11) based on the product classification information. , schematic, situational or other representations to generate planograms. In some embodiments, at least one processor may additionally or alternatively provide previously determined location information for one or more wirelessly tagged products to the planogram generator module. At least one processor may execute a planogram generator module to insert one or more representations associated with one or more wirelessly tagged products into corresponding locations in the planogram. In some embodiments, at least one processor may use the locations associated with individual wirelessly tagged products to determine location boundaries that define starting and ending locations for product types in the venue. The type of product may refer to classification information, product type number and/or product family. For example, the location boundaries may determine one or more shelves within an aisle and/or the coordinates within one or more shelves within which each wirelessly tagged product may be located. Thus, for example, in some embodiments, a planogram generated by a planogram generator may indicate on a map the location of locations of wirelessly tagged product groups that share common classification information.
在一些实施方案中，在将带无线标签的产品的表示放置在陈列图中时，陈列图生成器可以使用带无线标签的产品的位置信息来确定产品位于场所中的顺序。陈列图生成器可以从数据存储装置(例如，数据结构11006)检索产品的图像或者使用产品分类信息经由搜索引擎搜索视觉表示，或使用存储在数据结构中的数据来将产品或产品族与陈列图上的期望表示匹配。基于产品分类信息的产品图像可以是一类产品的通用图像。例如，汤产品在陈列图中可以使用通用汤罐来表示。陈列图生成器可以使用诸如品牌名称等附加产品细节，以通过使用诸如型号码、品牌名称、产品名称和制造商名称等产品标识数据进行图像搜索来将产品的准确图像放置在陈列图中。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以使用分类信息以及位置信息来将产品的表示正确地放置在陈列图中，所述表示与场所中的实际产品的位置信息相匹配。在一些实施方案中，场所可以具有被指定用于特定产品类型、产品族或分类信息的产品的特定位置。例如，杂货店场所可以储存被放置在商店一端的具有乳制品分类的产品。陈列图生成器使用这种具有一类产品在场所中的默认位置的信息来生成该类产品的视觉表示，而无需等待来自带无线标签的产品的无线信号来确定位置。在一些实施方案中，场所可能不具有为特定产品族先天指定的位置，陈列图生成器可以使用发射的无线信号基于所确定的产品位置创建场所的实际状态和产品分布的陈列图。陈列图生成器可以使用当前位置作为默认位置并且跟踪场所的陈列图的变化，使得场所员工和顾客能够更容易地找到场所中的物品，并且使得处理器能够推荐对改善销售、减少库存、降低成本或提高生产率有利的产品放置的变化。In some embodiments, when placing representations of wirelessly tagged products in a planogram, the planogram generator may use location information of the wirelessly tagged products to determine the order in which the products are located in the venue. The planogram generator may retrieve images of products from a data store (e.g., data structure 11006) or use product classification information to search for visual representations via a search engine, or use data stored in the data structure to associate products or product families with the planogram. The expectation on indicates a match. Product images based on product classification information can be general images of a type of product. For example, a soup product could be represented in a plan diagram using a generic soup can. The planogram generator can use additional product details such as brand name to place an accurate image of the product in the planogram by performing an image search using product identification data such as model number, brand name, product name, and manufacturer name. In some embodiments, at least one processor can use the classification information as well as the location information to correctly place a representation of the product in the planogram that matches the location information of the actual product in the venue. In some embodiments, a location may have specific locations designated for products of a specific product type, product family, or category information. For example, a grocery store location may stock products with a dairy assortment placed at one end of the store. The planogram generator uses this information with the default location of a category of products in a venue to generate a visual representation of that category of products without having to wait for a wireless signal from a wirelessly tagged product to determine location. In some embodiments, where a location may not have a priori designated locations for a particular product family, the planogram generator may use the transmitted wireless signals to create a planogram of the location's actual status and product distribution based on the determined product locations. The planogram generator can use the current location as the default location and track changes to the venue's planogram, making it easier for venue staff and customers to find items in the venue, and enabling the processor to recommend ways to improve sales, reduce inventory, and reduce costs. or changes in product placement that improve productivity.
在一些实施方案中，陈列图生成器可以将产品的视觉表示放置在场所中实际产品位置的预定距离内的大致区域中。大致区域可以包括在产品的位置边界内的任何位置。例如，具有被限定为包括场所中过道的前三个货架的位置边界的产品可以通过在表示场所的陈列图的顶部货架上插入该产品的视觉表示而被呈现在陈列图上。In some embodiments, the planogram generator may place the visual representation of the product in a general area within a predetermined distance of the actual product location in the venue. The general area can include any location within the product's location boundaries. For example, a product with location boundaries defined to include the first three shelves of an aisle in the location may be presented on a planogram by inserting a visual representation of the product on the top shelf of the planogram representing the location.
图23是根据本公开文本的一些实施方案的表示建筑物的平面地图的示例性陈列图23001。如图23所展示的，陈列图23001包括具有共享分类信息的产品分组的场所不同地段的表示。例如，组23002对应于诸如蔬菜、水果和农产品等产品，而组23004对应于诸如贝类等海鲜产品。产品组可以以分层方式分组，其中组包含具有匹配分类信息的产品子组。例如，在组23002中，蔬菜产品、水果和农产品是共享分类信息的子组23008、23010、23012。Figure 23 is an exemplary planogram 23001 representing a floor plan of a building, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 23, planogram 23001 includes representations of different sections of a venue with product groupings that share classification information. For example, group 23002 corresponds to products such as vegetables, fruits, and produce, while group 23004 corresponds to seafood products such as shellfish. Product groups can be grouped in a hierarchical manner, where the group contains subgroups of products with matching classification information. For example, in group 23002, vegetable products, fruits, and agricultural products are subgroups 23008, 23010, and 23012 that share classification information.
在一些实施方案中，场所的地图可以包括被指定用于储存的区域和被指定用于展示的区域，并且其中至少一个处理器进一步被配置成在陈列图中对于共享分类信息的每组产品包括储存区域中的至少一个常用位置以及展示区域中的至少一个常用位置。例如，陈列图可以标识场所的与不同功能或用途相关联的不同区域。作为一个例子，陈列图的一些区域可以被标识为被指定用于储存一个或多个产品的区域，而陈列图的其他区域可以被标识为被指定用于展示一个或多个产品的区域。陈列图的这些不同区域可以相应地匹配场所的被指定用于储存供保存的产品和展示供销售的产品的部分。储存区域可以包括场所的后室或仓库部分，其中由于没有展示空间而可以储存被展示以供销售的产品的附加副本。储存区域还可以包括场所的区域，其中可以储存产品来对其进行保存并且增加其保质期。例如，场所可以包括冷藏储存地段，从而不将蔬菜储存在展示区域中以避免腐坏。在一些实施方案中，储存区域可以包括仓库的区域，其中可以放置产品的大包装，并且所述大包装可能需要分成小包装以用于呈现在展示区域中以供销售。例如，场所的储存区域可以包括在货板上紧密地包装在一起的产品。展示区域可以包括被组织在不同过道和货架中的产品，以供场所的访问者查看和购买产品。In some embodiments, the map of the venue may include areas designated for storage and areas designated for display, and wherein the at least one processor is further configured to include in the planogram for each group of products that share category information At least one common location in the storage area and at least one common location in the display area. For example, a planogram can identify different areas of a venue that are associated with different functions or uses. As an example, some areas of the planogram may be identified as areas designated for storing one or more products, while other areas of the planogram may be identified as areas designated for displaying one or more products. These different areas of the planogram may accordingly match the portions of the venue designated for storing products for preservation and displaying products for sale. The storage area may include a back room or warehouse portion of the premises where additional copies of the products being displayed for sale may be stored as there is no display space. Storage areas may also include areas of the premises where products may be stored to preserve them and increase their shelf life. For example, the site may include refrigerated storage areas so that vegetables are not stored in display areas to avoid spoilage. In some embodiments, the storage area may include an area of the warehouse where large packages of product may be placed and which may need to be divided into smaller packages for presentation in a display area for sale. For example, a facility's storage area may include products packed tightly together on pallets. Display areas may include products organized into different aisles and shelves for visitors to the facility to view and purchase the products.
如本文所使用的，常用位置是场所中将被认为是如果在展示或储存区域中进行搜索则将会找到某一类型的产品的地方的位置，并且还可以是所述类型的产品的任何放错位置的实例返回的地方。例如，在杂货店商店类型的场所中，乳制品产品可以位于商店的后面，并且这将是乳制品产品的常用位置。储存位置对于共享分类信息的产品组可以具有常用位置，使得场所的员工成员可以基于其对同一类别的另一个产品的了解而容易地找到产品。类似地，购买展示区域中的产品的场所访问者可能想要在不必检查完整展示区域的情况下高效地找到产品。在展示区域中对于产品组的常用位置还可以帮助员工成员快速地放回放错地方的产品，而不必猜测他们的正确位置。在一些实施方案中，场所可以将场所的一部分指定为用于放置具有共同分类信息的产品组的常用位置。例如，在百货商店场所中，与不同品牌相关的分类信息可以用于将属于同一品牌的产品放置在常用位置，即使产品可以包括不同的型号和产品类型也是如此。替代性地，在电子商店场所中，具有相同功能性的产品(例如，扬声器、电视、膝上型计算机、移动电话等)可以共享常用位置，而不管产品品牌如何。在一些实施方案中，陈列图对于相同产品集合可以具有多个常用位置。例如，场所及其陈列图可以通过品牌和功能性两者将产品及其表示放置在常用位置，从而形成多个常用位置。As used herein, a common location is a location in a venue that would be considered a place where a product of a certain type would be found if a search were made in a display or storage area, and may also be any placement of products of that type. Where misplaced instances are returned. For example, in a grocery store type establishment, dairy products could be located in the back of the store and this would be a common location for dairy products. Storage locations can have common locations for product groups that share category information so that staff members at a location can easily find a product based on their knowledge of another product in the same category. Similarly, a venue visitor purchasing a product in a display area may want to find the product efficiently without having to inspect the full display area. Common locations for product groups in the display area also help staff members quickly replace misplaced products without having to guess their correct location. In some embodiments, a venue may designate a portion of the venue as a common location for placing groups of products that share common classification information. For example, in a department store establishment, classification information related to different brands can be used to place products belonging to the same brand in common locations, even though the products can include different models and product types. Alternatively, in an electronics store location, products with the same functionality (eg, speakers, televisions, laptops, mobile phones, etc.) may share common locations regardless of product brand. In some implementations, a planogram may have multiple common locations for the same product collection. For example, a place and its planogram can create multiple common locations by placing products and their representations in common locations, both through branding and functionality.
在一些实施方案中，系统可以允许与陈列图交互的用户在不同区域之间切换。例如，用户可以使用与显示陈列图的显示设备相关联的一个或多个输入设备来在储存区域与展示区域的视图之间切换。陈列图的不同区域(例如，储存区域和展示区域)可以呈现与带无线标签的产品相关的不同类型的信息。例如，陈列图指定的仓库的区域可以呈现与一个或多个货板相关联的信息，一个或多个带无线标签的产品可以储存在所述一个或多个货板上。作为另一个例子，被指定为前部商店的区域可以呈现与过道和/或货架的位置相关联的信息、带无线标签的产品的价格和可用尺寸、存在于该区域中的带无线标签的产品的数量、和/或与场所或位于前部商店区域中的带无线标签的产品的配置相关联的任何其他信息。在一些实施方案中，取决于用户的角色和许可级别，例如当用户是场所的员工成员或拜访顾客时，一些信息可以针对与陈列图交互的用户被截留或隐藏。In some embodiments, the system may allow users interacting with the planogram to switch between different areas. For example, a user may switch between views of a storage area and a presentation area using one or more input devices associated with a display device displaying a planogram. Different areas of the planogram (eg, storage area and display area) may present different types of information related to wirelessly tagged products. For example, an area of a warehouse designated by a planogram may present information associated with one or more pallets on which one or more wirelessly tagged products may be stored. As another example, an area designated as a front store may present information associated with the location of aisles and/or shelves, prices and available sizes of wirelessly tagged products, the presence of wirelessly tagged products in that area. quantity, and/or any other information associated with the location or configuration of wirelessly tagged products located in the front store area. In some embodiments, some information may be withheld or hidden from users interacting with the planogram, depending on the user's role and permission level, such as when the user is a member of the facility's staff or a visiting customer.
带无线标签的产品在陈列图中的视觉表示可以在计数上与场所中存在的实际带无线标签的产品匹配。在一些实施方案中，带无线标签的产品的视觉表示可以指示场所中存在的实际带无线标签的产品的多个实例。例如，陈列图针对实际产品的预定数量的实例(例如，一个、两个、十个或任何其他数量)可以包括带无线标签的产品的单个视觉表示。带无线标签的产品的视觉表示可以包括标牌，所述标牌包括附加信息。通过非限制性举例的方式，标牌可以包括场所中的带无线标签的产品的总计数、价格、可用的折扣优惠券、或与带无线标签的产品相关联的任何其他信息。陈列图还可以允许用户在属于同一场所的不同储存或零售位置之间切换视图。The visual representation of wirelessly tagged products in the planogram can match in count the actual wirelessly tagged products present in the location. In some embodiments, the visual representation of the wirelessly tagged product may indicate multiple instances of the actual wirelessly tagged product present in the location. For example, a planogram may include a single visual representation of a wirelessly tagged product for a predetermined number of instances of the actual product (eg, one, two, ten, or any other number). The visual representation of the wirelessly tagged product may include signage that includes additional information. By way of non-limiting example, signage may include a total count of wirelessly tagged products in the venue, prices, available discount coupons, or any other information associated with wirelessly tagged products. Planograms can also allow users to switch views between different storage or retail locations that are part of the same facility.
一些公开的实施方案可以涉及对于共享产品分类信息的至少一个产品组指示所述至少一组中的产品被聚类的至少两个位置并且在陈列图上标识所述至少两个位置。聚类的产品组可以包括放置在一起或放置在场所的共同地段或区域中的两个或更多个产品。在一些实施方案中，陈列图生成器可以基于产品族将具有共享分类信息的产品组划分成不同位置中的多个聚类。陈列图生成器这样做可以是因为场所的特定部分中的可用空间不足以容纳共享产品分类信息的所有产品。例如，共享分类“海产品”的产品可以包括“贝类”产品族和“鱼类”产品族中的产品。陈列图生成器可以标识多于一个位置以供放置具有共同分类“海产品”的产品，因为单个位置可能不具有足够的可用空间来容纳海产品族中的所有产品。因此，例如，陈列图可以包括以两个聚类呈现的产品的海产品分类，一个针对贝类产品族，而一个针对鱼类产品族。陈列图生成器可以在陈列图上包括指示符以指示这多个位置。在一些实施方案中，陈列图可以允许用户在陈列图中搜索呈现共享某些分类信息(例如，海产品)的产品聚类的所有位置。当用户执行这样的搜索时，陈列图可以突出显示或以其他方式标识与共同分类信息(例如，海产品)相关联的所有位置。通过举例的方式，如图23所展示的，产品组可形成贝类族产品的聚类23004和鱼类族产品的聚类23006，如图23所示，其散布在陈列图中的多个位置。替代性地或另外地，场所可以选择将具有相同产品型号码的相同产品放置在场所中的多于一个位置中(例如，在服装店中，将一个短袜架子放置在鞋类地段附近并且将另一个短袜架子放置在裤子地段附近，其中两个架子承载相同种类的短袜)。因此，在一些实施方案中，当用户针对特定产品执行搜索时，陈列图可以将场所的地图上的两个位置指示为产品(例如，特定类型、颜色和尺寸的袜子)的常用位置。Some disclosed embodiments may involve indicating, for at least one product group that shares product classification information, at least two locations where products in the at least one group are clustered and identifying the at least two locations on a planogram. A clustered product group may include two or more products placed together or in a common lot or area of the premises. In some embodiments, the planogram generator may divide product groups with shared classification information into multiple clusters in different locations based on product families. The planogram generator may do this because the available space in a particular part of the premises is insufficient to accommodate all the products that share product category information. For example, products sharing the category "Seafood" could include products in the "Shellfish" product family and the "Fish" product family. The planogram generator may identify more than one location for products with a common classification of "seafood" because a single location may not have enough available space to accommodate all products in the seafood family. So, for example, a planogram may include a seafood classification of products presented in two clusters, one for the shellfish product family and one for the fish product family. The chart generator can include indicators on the chart to indicate these multiple locations. In some embodiments, the planogram may allow a user to search for all locations in the planogram that present product clusters that share certain classification information (eg, seafood). When a user performs such a search, the planogram may highlight or otherwise identify all locations associated with common category information (eg, seafood). By way of example, as shown in Figure 23, the product groups may form a cluster 23004 of shellfish products and a cluster 23006 of fish products, as shown in Figure 23, which are scattered at multiple locations in the planogram. . Alternatively or additionally, the establishment may choose to place the same product with the same model number in more than one location in the establishment (e.g., in a clothing store, place a sock rack near the footwear section and place Another sock rack is placed near the pants section, with two racks carrying the same kind of socks). Thus, in some embodiments, when a user performs a search for a specific product, the planogram may indicate two locations on the map of the venue as common locations for the product (e.g., a specific type, color, and size of socks).
一些实施方案可以涉及随时间跟踪所述陈列图，其中跟踪陈列图包括：将至少一个产品组的当前常用位置与至少一个产品组的常用位置历史进行比较；确定当前常用位置是否偏离常用位置历史；并且如果偏离度大于预定义阈值，则更新陈列图以指示新的常用位置。如本文所使用的，常用位置是场所中将被认为是如果进行搜索则将会找到某一产品的地方的位置，并且是产品的任何放错位置的实例返回的地方。例如，在杂货店商店类型的场所中，乳制品产品可以位于商店的后面，并且这将是乳制品产品(诸如牛奶、酸奶和奶酪)的常用位置。产品组的这种常用位置可以被视为在陈列图中呈现产品组的视觉表示的默认位置。Some embodiments may involve tracking the planogram over time, wherein tracking the planogram includes: comparing a current common location of at least one product group to a history of common locations for at least one product group; determining whether the current common location deviates from the history of common locations; And if the deviation is greater than a predefined threshold, the planogram is updated to indicate the new frequently used locations. As used herein, a common location is a location in a venue that would be considered a place where a certain product would be found if a search were made, and is the place where any misplaced instances of the product are returned. For example, in a grocery store type establishment, dairy products may be located in the back of the store, and this would be a common location for dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. This common position of product groups can be considered the default position for presenting visual representations of product groups in planograms.
如本文所使用的，随时间跟踪陈列图可以包括确定陈列图的变化，包括产品的添加、删除和/或更新和/或其在陈列图内的位置。随时间跟踪陈列图可以另外地或替代性地包括确定陈列图中产品分组的变化。通过非限制性举例的方式，系统的实施方案可以以预定的时间间隔自动更新陈列图，或者可以被配置成确定可能由特定事件随时间的发生而引起的陈列图变化。这样的事件可以包括在场所中储存产品和/或比较产品的位置。As used herein, tracking a planogram over time may include determining changes to the planogram, including additions, deletions, and/or updates of products and/or their positions within the planogram. Tracking the planogram over time may additionally or alternatively include determining changes in product groupings in the planogram. By way of non-limiting example, embodiments of the system may automatically update the planogram at predetermined intervals or may be configured to determine changes in the planogram that may be caused by the occurrence of specific events over time. Such events may include the location of products in a facility where products are stored and/or compared.
在一些实施方案中，跟踪陈列图可以包括：将至少一个产品组的当前常用位置与同产品组的常用位置历史进行比较；确定当前常用位置是否偏离常用位置历史；并且如果偏离度大于预定义阈值，则更新陈列图以指示新的位置。如本文所使用的，常用位置历史可以包括在某时间段上产品组被默认认为存在于场所中的位置范围。常用位置历史可以通过由用户手动地提供先前限定的产品常用位置来确定，或使用由附接到带无线标签的产品的无线传输标签发射的无线信号来确定。例如，处理器可以针对一个或多个产品确定当前常用位置与常用位置历史之间的距离。当产品组移动离开常用位置历史的位置范围时或者当这些产品的位置大小与常用位置历史的大小相比在大小上缩小或增加时，可以认为这些产品偏离常用位置历史。通过举例的方式，当处理器确定的一个或多个距离超过预定阈值距离时，可以认为产品组偏离常用位置历史。处理器可以通过在场所中产品组所存在于的储存过道、货架、过道的数量、货架的数量以及在每个过道和货架内的坐标来保持对常用位置的跟踪。处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以注意到基于由与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签发射的无线信号的特性的改变而对产品组的这些位置的改变。处理器可以通过基于最近接收的无线信号集合和存储在数据存储装置(诸如数据结构(例如，图11的数据结构11006))中的先前存储的常用位置的历史来确定产品位置来计算偏离度(即，位置变化)。处理器可以确定偏离度是否大于预定阈值并且可以更新存储在数据结构中的产品组的常用位置。例如，可以跟踪陈列图以观察产品组是否已经移动超出一定数量的英尺，然后更新在场所中可能存在于产品组之间的限制。通过非限制性举例的方式，陈列图更新可以包括更新产品的视觉表示的位置、指示场所中的产品计数变化的产品视觉表示的副本数量、或修改或改变与陈列图相关联的任何其他信息。在一些实施方案中，当被跟踪的事件改变值(诸如位置)时或者当总计数达到某些值时可以更新陈列图。例如，如果偏离度大于预定义阈值，则可以更新陈列图以指示新的常用位置。在一些实施方案中，可以针对各种类型的场所、产品或产品组单独地定义阈值量。可以基于与场所和场所中存在的带无线标签的产品有关的若干因素来自动地适配阈值量。In some embodiments, tracking the planogram may include: comparing a current common location of at least one product group with a history of common locations for the same product group; determining whether the current common location deviates from the history of common locations; and if the degree of deviation is greater than a predefined threshold , the chart is updated to indicate the new location. As used herein, common location history may include a range of locations over a certain time period in which a product group is considered to be present in a venue by default. The frequently used location history may be determined by manually providing previously defined frequently used locations for the product by the user, or using wireless signals transmitted by a wireless transmission tag attached to the wirelessly tagged product. For example, the processor may determine the distance between a current common location and a history of common locations for one or more products. Products may be considered to deviate from a common location history when a group of products moves outside the location range of the common location history or when the location size of these products shrinks or increases in size compared to the size of the common location history. By way of example, a product group may be considered to deviate from a common location history when one or more distances determined by the processor exceed a predetermined threshold distance. The processor may keep track of commonly used locations by storage aisle, shelf, number of aisles, number of shelves, and coordinates within each aisle and shelf within the facility in which the product group exists. A processor (eg, processor 11004 of FIG. 11) may note changes to these locations of product groups based on changes in characteristics of wireless signals transmitted by wireless transmission tags associated with wirelessly tagged products. The processor may calculate the degree of deviation ( i.e., position change). The processor may determine whether the degree of deviation is greater than a predetermined threshold and may update the common locations of the product groups stored in the data structure. For example, you can track a planogram to see if a product group has moved beyond a certain number of feet, and then update the restrictions that may exist between product groups in a facility. By way of non-limiting example, planogram updates may include updating the location of the visual representation of the product, the number of copies of the visual representation of the product indicating a change in product count in the location, or modifying or changing any other information associated with the planogram. In some implementations, the planogram may be updated when a tracked event changes value (such as location) or when the total count reaches certain values. For example, if the deviation is greater than a predefined threshold, the planogram can be updated to indicate new frequently used locations. In some embodiments, threshold amounts may be defined individually for each type of venue, product, or product group. The threshold amount may be automatically adapted based on several factors related to the location and wirelessly tagged products present in the location.
一些公开的实施方案可以涉及基于以下各项中的至少一项来适配预定义阈值：场所的类型、场所的所有者、场所中的陈列图更新的历史、场所中的产品的分类信息、或用户输入。适配阈值可以包括但不限于升高或降低阈值(其中升高阈值将需要未来偏离度更大以便生成对陈列图的更新，并且降低阈值将导致未来偏离度更小以生成对陈列图的更新)。适配阈值可以包括改变适配阈值的速率、改变相对于阈值测量偏离度的速率、或改变致使适配阈值的一或多个参数。通过举例的方式，可以预期杂货店类型场所将乳制品产品放置在商店的更远端，并且因此可以与常用位置具有低预定阈值的偏离度。在一些实施方案中，可以基于所有权来确定产品在场所中的常用位置。例如，如果场所是特许经营，那么场所中产品的常用位置可以倾向于匹配与特许经营相关联的其他场所中的常用位置，而不考虑其他场所的所有者。在这种情况下，产品的常用位置的偏离度的预定阈值可以更低。Some disclosed embodiments may involve adapting a predefined threshold based on at least one of: the type of venue, the owner of the venue, a history of planogram updates in the venue, classification information of the products in the venue, or User input. Adaptation thresholds may include, but are not limited to, raising or lowering thresholds (where raising the threshold will require greater future deviations in order to generate updates to the planogram, and lowering the threshold will result in smaller future deviations in order to generate updates to the planogram) ). Adapting the threshold may include changing the rate at which the threshold is adapted, changing the rate at which deviations from the threshold are measured, or changing one or more parameters that cause the threshold to be adapted. By way of example, a grocery store type location may be expected to place dairy products further into the store, and thus may have a low predetermined threshold of deviation from commonly used locations. In some embodiments, a product's common location in a venue may be determined based on ownership. For example, if a location is a franchise, common locations of products in the location may tend to match common locations in other locations associated with the franchise, regardless of the owners of the other locations. In this case, the predetermined threshold for deviation from the usual location of the product may be lower.
在一些实施方案中，更新陈列图进一步包括发送陈列图被更新的警告。在一些实施方案中，当对陈列图做出改变时，可以将一个或多个警告传输到与用户相关联的一个或多个设备。在一些实施方案中，可以将一个或多个警告发送给场所中的员工、监督场所的管理人员、或组织中负责对组织成员机构进行位置和放置准则的合规性检查的职能。用户设备可以包括例如膝上型计算机、台式计算机、平板电脑、智能电话、智能手表、智能眼镜或与用户相关联的任何其他类型的电子或计算设备。警告可以指事件发生已发生的指示，需要采取行动和/或进行响应。警告可以指在与一个或多个用户相关联的一个或多个设备上提供的一个或多个文本或图形符号、声音或触觉输出(例如，振动)。例如，警告可以包括电话通知，诸如文本消息或智能电话通知。作为另一个例子，提醒可以包括经由其他通信渠道(诸如电子邮件)提供的文本或图形信息。查看陈列图的用户可以通过选择和订阅一个或多个警告来接收警告。用户可以通过勾选陈列图的设置部分中的每个警告的框来订阅智能电话应用或用于查看陈列图的网站中的陈列图更新警告。用户可以使用网络浏览器或智能电话来订阅警告。在一些实施方案中，可以实时地或基于某些更新事件来提供警告。例如，至少一个处理器可以使得响应于诸如一个或多个带无线标签的产品缺货或位置改变等事件来提供实时警告。在一些实施方案中，用户可以为陈列图更新配置警告通知的时间。例如，用户可以请求以每小时、每8小时、每天或每周的摘要形式接收陈列图更新的警报通知，或者根据其他期望的时间或频率。In some embodiments, updating the planogram further includes sending a warning that the planogram is updated. In some embodiments, when changes are made to the planogram, one or more alerts may be transmitted to one or more devices associated with the user. In some embodiments, one or more alerts may be sent to employees at the site, managers overseeing the site, or functions in the organization responsible for checking compliance with location and placement guidelines for the organization's member facilities. User equipment may include, for example, a laptop computer, desktop computer, tablet computer, smartphone, smart watch, smart glasses, or any other type of electronic or computing device associated with the user. A warning may refer to an indication that an event has occurred and requires action and/or response. A warning may refer to one or more textual or graphical symbols, sound, or tactile output (eg, vibration) provided on one or more devices associated with one or more users. For example, the warning may include a phone notification, such as a text message or smartphone notification. As another example, reminders may include text or graphical information provided via other communication channels, such as email. Users viewing the chart can receive alerts by selecting and subscribing to one or more alerts. Users can subscribe to chart update alerts in the smartphone app or the website used to view the chart by checking the box for each alert in the settings section of the chart. Users can subscribe to alerts using a web browser or smartphone. In some embodiments, alerts may be provided in real time or based on certain update events. For example, at least one processor may cause real-time alerts to be provided in response to events such as an out-of-stock or location change of one or more wirelessly tagged products. In some embodiments, users can configure the timing of warning notifications for planogram updates. For example, users can request to receive alert notifications for planogram updates in the form of hourly, every 8-hour, daily or weekly summaries, or based on other desired times or frequencies.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器进一步被配置成：通过通信接口接收标识特定产品在场所中的位置的请求；并且通过发回与请求中标识的产品共享分类信息的产品的至少一个常用位置来响应请求。如本文所使用的，通信接口可以是用于使用诸如蓝牙、近场通信(NFC)等技术与附近的无线传输标签进行通信的系统的硬件接口。通信接口可以包括被配置成接收通过通信媒介发送的信号的电路。信号可以携带数据(如在诸如Wi-Fi、蓝牙、蜂窝通信、以太网通信或任何其他基于标准的或专有协议等通信系统的情况下)。媒介可以是空中无线通信；并且信号可以根据达成一致的通信协议携带某种形式的数据。通信接口可以包括环境中的固定接口、无线用户设备(例如，蜂窝电话、平板电脑、专用硬件等)、手持式设备(例如，由场所提供给雇员或顾客以供在工作例程期间或购物会话中使用的手持式扫描仪)、或接收无线信号的任何其他电路或部件。In some embodiments, at least one processor is further configured to: receive a request through the communication interface to identify a location of a particular product in the venue; and send back at least one common location of a product that shares classification information with the product identified in the request. to respond to requests. As used herein, a communication interface may be a hardware interface for a system that communicates with nearby wirelessly transmitting tags using technologies such as Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), and the like. A communication interface may include circuitry configured to receive signals sent over a communication medium. Signals may carry data (as in the case of communication systems such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communications, Ethernet communications, or any other standards-based or proprietary protocol). The medium can be over-the-air wireless communications; and the signal can carry some form of data according to an agreed-upon communications protocol. Communication interfaces may include fixed interfaces in the environment, wireless user devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, specialized hardware, etc.), handheld devices (e.g., provided by the venue to employees or customers for use during work routines or shopping sessions handheld scanners used in), or any other circuit or component that receives wireless signals.
如本文所使用的，请求可以包括具有嵌入操作码的无线信号以执行任务并且确定要显示的信息。系统可以通过网络(例如，图11的网络11002)通过无线信号从接收器(例如，图11的接收器11300a-g)接收执行与产品相关联的操作的请求，所述操作诸如确定带无线标签的产品的位置、确定带无线标签的产品的可用库存、或确定与带无线标签的产品相关联的任何其他信息。在一些实施方案中，用户可以请求从带无线标签的产品接收无线信号。例如，具有NFC能力的智能电话的用户可以通过使智能电话靠近具有NFC标签的带无线标签的产品以激活无线传输标签并发射无线信号来请求接收无线信号。用户可以选择操作(例如，产品的位置)来激活RFID标签。As used herein, a request may include a wireless signal with an embedded operation code to perform a task and determine information to display. The system may receive a request via a wireless signal from a receiver (eg, receivers 11300a-g of FIG. 11) over a network (eg, network 11002 of FIG. 11) to perform an operation associated with a product, such as determining whether a wireless tag is attached the location of a product, determine the available inventory of a wirelessly tagged product, or determine any other information associated with a wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, a user may request to receive a wireless signal from a wirelessly tagged product. For example, a user of an NFC-enabled smartphone can request to receive a wireless signal by bringing the smartphone close to a wireless-tagged product with an NFC tag to activate the wireless transmission tag and transmit the wireless signal. The user can select an action (for example, the location of the product) to activate the RFID tag.
在一些实施方案中，用户可以通过使接收器设备紧邻与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签来请求接收器设备接收无线信号。例如，具有NFC能力的智能电话可以靠近具有NFC标签的产品，以激活无线传输标签并发射包括关于产品的信息的无线信号。在一些实施方案中，可以使用无线接收器设备将无线信号中继到处理器以通过网络标识位置。通过非限制性例子，如图11所展示的，一个或多个接收器11300a-g使用处理器11004通过网络11002从一个或多个标签1100接收无线信号，以标识一个或多个标签1100的位置。In some embodiments, a user may request a receiver device to receive a wireless signal by placing the receiver device in close proximity to a wireless transmission tag associated with a wirelessly tagged product. For example, an NFC-enabled smartphone can be brought close to a product with an NFC tag to activate the wireless transmission tag and transmit a wireless signal that includes information about the product. In some implementations, a wireless receiver device may be used to relay wireless signals to the processor to identify location over the network. By way of non-limiting example, as shown in Figure 11, one or more receivers 11300a-g receive wireless signals from one or more tags 1100 over a network 11002 using a processor 11004 to identify the location of the one or more tags 1100 .
系统的实施方案可以通过检索在所接收的无线信号中请求的数据并显示所检索的数据来对请求作出响应。例如，所接收的对带无线标签的产品的位置的请求可以导致由处理器处理所接收的无线信号以检索与带无线标签的产品相关联的标签ID。处理器可以使用标签ID从数据存储装置(例如，数据结构11006)检索与带无线标签的产品相关联的位置信息。Embodiments of the system may respond to requests by retrieving the requested data in received wireless signals and displaying the retrieved data. For example, a received request for the location of a wirelessly tagged product may result in processing of the received wireless signal by the processor to retrieve a tag ID associated with the wirelessly tagged product. The processor may retrieve location information associated with the wirelessly tagged product from a data storage device (eg, data structure 11006) using the tag ID.
在一些实施方案中，标识特定产品的位置的请求包括请求者的标识信息，所述标识信息指示请求者是否是被授权的场所员工成员。如本文所使用的，请求者的标识信息可以是用于唯一地标识个体(例如，场所中的雇员编号、雇员姓名)或其在场所中的角色(例如，雇员头衔)的信息。至少一个处理器可以从所接收的请求中提取生成请求的用户的标识。在一些实施方案中，可以基于所接收的位置请求中的数据来检索用户的标识。例如，标识用户的信息可以用作存储在用户设备上的缓存文件的一部分。在另一个场景中，用户对位置的请求可以是作为表格提交的网络请求，其中用户标识信息被包括在表格的隐藏字段中。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以基于与用于生成位置请求的软件相关联的认证信息来检索标识信息。例如，用户标识信息可以是当用户登录到应用中以查看场所的陈列图并请求产品在陈列图中的位置时生成的会话的一部分。作为用户认证的一部分而生成并且存储在与场所相关联的服务器上或存储在用户设备上的用户访问令牌可以用作用户标识信息。在一些实施方案中，标识信息可以基于用于生成位置请求的硬件的标识，诸如网络IP地址、MAC ID、设备的IMEI、序列号或其他硬件标识信息。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以在数据结构中查找与所检索的标识信息相关联的信息并且使用所述信息来确定所述请求是否被授权。例如，对产品在仓库中的可用性的位置请求可以导致评估用户头衔(例如，管理者)，以确定具有某个头衔的个人是否具有对仓库中的位置信息的访问权，以决定是否提供所搜索的产品在场所内的位置细节。In some embodiments, a request to identify the location of a particular product includes identification information of the requester indicating whether the requester is an authorized member of the facility's staff. As used herein, a requestor's identifying information may be information that uniquely identifies an individual (eg, employee number at the site, employee name) or his or her role at the site (eg, employee title). At least one processor may extract from the received request an identity of the user who generated the request. In some implementations, the user's identification may be retrieved based on data in the received location request. For example, information identifying a user may be used as part of a cache file stored on the user's device. In another scenario, the user's request for location may be a network request submitted as a form, with user identification information included in a hidden field of the form. In some implementations, at least one processor may retrieve identification information based on authentication information associated with the software used to generate the location request. For example, user identification information may be part of a session generated when a user logs into an application to view a place map of a location and request the location of a product in the plan map. A user access token generated as part of user authentication and stored on a server associated with the venue or on the user's device may be used as user identification information. In some embodiments, the identification information may be based on the identification of the hardware used to generate the location request, such as a network IP address, a MAC ID, the device's IMEI, a serial number, or other hardware identification information. In some embodiments, at least one processor may look up information in a data structure associated with the retrieved identification information and use the information to determine whether the request is authorized. For example, a location request for a product's availability in a warehouse could result in an evaluation of a user's title (e.g., manager) to determine whether an individual with a certain title has access to location information in a warehouse to decide whether to provide the requested Details of the product's location within the premises.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以确定请求者的标识信息是否指示请求者是否是被授权的员工成员。被授权的场所员工成员可以是与场所相关联的个人，其具有访问关于场所和/或场所中的带无线标签的产品的某些信息的授权。授权(在数据系统中的用户角色的上下文中)可以包括来自管理数据系统的实体以访问存储在数据系统中的某些数据类型、方面或类别的一个或多个许可。例如，与较不敏感的个人数据(诸如全名、电子邮件地址或电话号码)相反，场所的不同雇员可能需要不同的授权或不同的许可级别来访问敏感的个人数据(诸如生日或地址)。作为另一个例子，与较不敏感的业务信息(诸如价格或产品图片)相反，场所(例如，零售商店)的雇员可能需要不同的授权或不同的许可级别来访问敏感的业务信息，诸如库存水平和未来订单。例如，可以允许零售场所中的员工成员访问某些区域(例如，仓库、店面)中存在的产品和某些类型的产品(例如，服装、奶制品、杂货)的位置信息。In some embodiments, at least one processor may determine whether the requestor's identification information indicates whether the requestor is an authorized member of the staff. An authorized site staff member may be an individual associated with the site who has authorization to access certain information regarding the site and/or wirelessly tagged products in the site. Authorization (in the context of user roles in the data system) may include one or more permissions from the entity managing the data system to access certain data types, aspects, or categories stored in the data system. For example, different employees at a location may require different authorizations or different permission levels to access sensitive personal data (such as birthdates or addresses) as opposed to less sensitive personal data (such as full names, email addresses, or phone numbers). As another example, employees of a location (e.g., a retail store) may require different authorizations or different permission levels to access sensitive business information, such as inventory levels, as opposed to less sensitive business information, such as prices or product images. and future orders. For example, employee members in a retail location may be allowed to access location information for products present in certain areas (eg, warehouses, storefronts) and certain types of products (eg, apparel, dairy, groceries).
如上文所讨论的，至少一个处理器可以接收标识特定的带无线标签的产品的位置的请求。在一些实施方案中，包括所述请求的无线信号可以包括搜寻带无线标签的产品的信息的用户的标识数据以及产品的ID。在一些实施方案中，用户标识数据可以由设备的用户手动提供，所述设备发送标识特定带无线标签的产品的位置的请求。另外地或替代性地，用户标识数据可以由用于请求位置的设备提供。例如，设备可以提供标识数据，诸如电话号码、地址、雇员ID、由用户用来登录用于生成请求的设备的认证凭证。As discussed above, at least one processor may receive a request to identify the location of a particular wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, the wireless signal including the request may include identification data of the user seeking information about the wirelessly tagged product and an ID of the product. In some embodiments, user identification data may be manually provided by a user of a device sending a request identifying the location of a particular wirelessly tagged product. Additionally or alternatively, user identification data may be provided by the device used to request the location. For example, a device may provide identification data such as a phone number, address, employee ID, authentication credentials used by the user to log into the device used to generate the request.
在一些实施方案中，用户标识数据可以用于控制对与特定产品相关联的位置信息的访问。在一些实施方案中，如果用户不是所请求的搜索操作的授权用户，则可以拒绝位置标识请求。基于与用户相关联的标识信息，可以认为用户未经授权访问与产品相关的位置数据。例如，作为库存搜索的一部分的位置查找请求可以仅针对场所的有权访问产品后室储存的员工成员被授权。通过非限制性例子，如图14A-图14C所展示的，设备11008可以将用户的标识信息和产品的标签ID与使用搜索按钮14006生成的搜索请求一起传输。用于标识产品位置的用户搜索请求可以包括对具有位置的库存可用性的搜索或对产品细节(如图14A中所描述的)的搜索，包括给定型号的位置和其他细节(如图14B中所描述的)。In some embodiments, user identification data may be used to control access to location information associated with specific products. In some implementations, a location identification request may be denied if the user is not an authorized user for the requested search operation. Based on the identification information associated with the user, it may be assumed that the user has unauthorized access to location data associated with the product. For example, a location lookup request as part of an inventory search may be authorized only for staff members of the facility who have access to product backroom storage. By way of non-limiting example, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14C , device 11008 may transmit the user's identification information and the product's tag ID along with a search request generated using search button 14006 . User search requests to identify product locations may include searches for inventory availability with locations or searches for product details (as depicted in Figure 14A), including locations for a given model and other details (as depicted in Figure 14B describe).
在一些实施方案中，与位置请求相关联的附加信息(诸如一天中的时间、请求之间的等待时间、或重复请求的数量)可以用于确定用户是否被授权访问位置信息。例如，在营业时间之外进行的位置请求可以被认为是未经授权的，除非是管理者进行请求。在另一个场景中，非常快速连续进行的位置请求可以被理解为由自动化软件而不是人类做出，并且被认为是未经授权的。在又另一个场景中，对超过阈值数量的位置请求的重复请求可以被认为是未经授权的。In some embodiments, additional information associated with a location request, such as time of day, wait time between requests, or number of repeat requests, may be used to determine whether the user is authorized to access location information. For example, a location request made outside of business hours may be considered unauthorized unless an administrator makes the request. In another scenario, location requests made in very rapid succession could be interpreted as being made by automated software rather than humans, and considered unauthorized. In yet another scenario, repeated requests for location requests that exceed a threshold number may be considered unauthorized.
对位置信息的访问可以被配置给某些用户或设备。可以允许用户配置访问控制限制规则并将其存储在数据存储装置(诸如数据结构11006)中。处理器11004可以接收用户配置，并且可以将其以不同格式存储，包括平面文件、数据库等。实施方案可以允许配置成控制对分类信息的访问和对位置信息的确定。Access to location information can be configured to certain users or devices. Users may be allowed to configure access control restriction rules and store them in a data store (such as data structure 11006). The processor 11004 may receive user configurations and may store them in different formats, including flat files, databases, etc. Embodiments may allow configuration to control access to classification information and determination of location information.
在一些实施方案中，当请求来源于除经授权的场所员工成员以外的实体时，位于储存区域中的产品可以从对应的响应中排除。未经授权的人可以是未被授权访问陈列图中的产品位置的任何个人，并且因此在查看场所的陈列图时不可以使用该特征。在一些实施方案中，未经授权的人可以是非场所成员的个人(诸如访问场所的顾客)、或卸放产品新库存的递送人、使用未经授权的设备(诸如个人电话而不是场所提供的自助服务机)、或以非正统方式访问陈列图中的产品位置(诸如过于频繁地访问信息、在营业时间之外访问信息)的个人。基于员工成员的头衔，员工成员可以被视为未经授权请求位置信息。例如，具有头衔“管理者”的员工成员可以被允许请求和访问位置信息。但是具有头衔“门卫”或“结账员”的另一员工成员可以被认为是未经授权的员工成员，并且可以拒绝这样的员工成员访问位置信息的请求。In some embodiments, when the request originates from an entity other than an authorized member of the site staff, products located in the storage area may be excluded from the corresponding response. An unauthorized person may be any individual who is not authorized to access the product location in the planogram, and therefore may not use this feature when viewing the planogram of the venue. In some embodiments, the unauthorized person may be an individual who is not a member of the venue (such as a customer visiting the venue), or a courier dropping off new inventory of product, using an unauthorized device (such as a personal phone other than that provided by the venue) kiosks), or individuals who access product locations in the planogram in unorthodox ways (such as accessing information too frequently, accessing information outside of business hours). Based on the employee member's title, a staff member may be deemed unauthorized to request location information. For example, staff members with the title "Manager" may be allowed to request and access location information. But another staff member with the title "Journeyman" or "Checkout Attendant" may be considered an unauthorized staff member, and such staff member's request to access location information may be denied.
图24是展示了根据本公开文本的一些实施方案的用于陈列图生成的示例性方法24000的操作的流程图。在步骤24002中，至少一个处理器从接收器接收来自带无线标签的产品的无线信号。在一些实施方案中，无线信号可以包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。在步骤24004中，至少一个处理器可以访问使无线信号中接收的ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构。在步骤24006中，至少一个处理器确定带无线标签的产品在场所中的位置。在步骤24008中，至少一个处理器从所接收的ID确定产品分类信息。在步骤24010中，至少一个处理器使用带无线标签的产品的所确定的位置和分类信息来生成陈列图。Figure 24 is a flowchart illustrating the operations of an exemplary method 24000 for planogram generation in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In step 24002, at least one processor receives a wireless signal from a receiver from a wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, the wireless signal may include an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. In step 24004, at least one processor may access a data structure that associates IDs received in the wireless signal with classification information. In step 24006, at least one processor determines the location of the wirelessly tagged product in the venue. In step 24008, at least one processor determines product classification information from the received ID. In step 24010, at least one processor generates a planogram using the determined location and classification information of the wirelessly tagged products.
在步骤24002中，至少一个处理器可以从多个无线接收器接收与场所中的带无线标签的产品相关联的无线信号。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，属于系统11000的一个或多个处理器11004可以通过一个或多个接收器11300a-g接收与带无线标签的产品(诸如1106(如图1所展示的)和1122(如图1所展示的))相关联的一个或多个标签1100的无线信号。In step 24002, at least one processor may receive wireless signals associated with wirelessly tagged products in the venue from a plurality of wireless receivers. By way of example, as shown in FIG. 11 , one or more processors 11004 belonging to system 11000 may receive, through one or more receivers 11300a-g, a wirelessly tagged product, such as 1106 (shown in FIG. 1 ) and 1122 (as shown in FIG. 1 )) associated wireless signals of one or more tags 1100 .
在步骤24004中，响应于在步骤24002中接收的无线信号(包括带无线标签的产品的ID)，至少一个处理器可以访问将带无线标签的产品的ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，一个或多个处理器11004可以在经由一个或多个接收器11300a-g接收到具有ID的无线信号时访问一个或多个数据结构11006。In step 24004, in response to the wireless signal (including the ID of the wirelessly tagged product) received in step 24002, at least one processor may access a data structure that associates the ID of the wirelessly tagged product with the classification information. By way of example, as shown in Figure 11, one or more processors 11004 may access one or more data structures 11006 upon receiving a wireless signal with an ID via one or more receivers 11300a-g.
在步骤24006中，至少一个处理器可以利用所接收的无线信号来确定在场所中传输无线信号的带无线标签的产品的位置。通过举例的方式，如图13A所展示的，零售场所可以包括标签1100，所述标签与场所的不同地段之间移动的货品相关联并且发射由这些地段中的接收器接收的信号。In step 24006, at least one processor may utilize the received wireless signal to determine the location of the wireless tagged product transmitting the wireless signal in the location. By way of example, as shown in Figure 13A, a retail location may include tags 1100 that are associated with items moving between different sections of the location and that emit signals that are received by receivers in those locations.
在步骤24008中，至少一个处理器可以使用在步骤24004中检索到的数据结构来查找与带无线标签的产品相关联的分类信息。至少一个处理器还可以使用在步骤24002中接收的无线信号中的ID数据来查找分类信息。通过举例的方式，如图14B所展示的，设备11008可以用于基于所接收的信息(诸如品牌、SKU号、库存号或型号)来查找产品信息。In step 24008, at least one processor may use the data structure retrieved in step 24004 to look up classification information associated with the wirelessly tagged product. At least one processor may also use the ID data in the wireless signal received in step 24002 to look up classification information. By way of example, as shown in Figure 14B, device 11008 can be used to look up product information based on received information, such as brand, SKU number, stock number, or model.
在步骤24010中，至少一个处理器可以使用在步骤21006中确定的带无线标签的产品在场所中的位置以及在步骤24008中确定的分类信息来生成场所的陈列图。系统的实施方案可以利用位置信息来放置存在于场所中的带无线标签的产品的视觉表示。系统的实施方案可以利用分类信息来确定带无线标签的产品的视觉表示。在一些实施方案中，系统可以利用分类和位置信息来验证与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线信号的真实性。例如，分类信息可以用于确定无线产品是否被放置在正确的位置中。在一些实施方案中，系统可以利用分类信息来验证访问与产品相关的信息的用户是否是授权用户。在步骤24010完成时，系统的实施方案完成了执行方法24000(步骤24002-99)。In step 24010, at least one processor may generate a planogram of the venue using the location of the wirelessly tagged product in the venue determined in step 21006 and the classification information determined in step 24008. Embodiments of the system may utilize location information to place visual representations of wirelessly tagged products present in a venue. Embodiments of the system may utilize classification information to determine a visual representation of the wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, the system may utilize classification and location information to verify the authenticity of wireless signals associated with wirelessly tagged products. For example, classification information can be used to determine whether a wireless product is placed in the correct location. In some embodiments, the system may utilize classification information to verify whether a user accessing product-related information is an authorized user. Upon completion of step 24010, the implementation of the system completes performing method 24000 (steps 24002-99).
所公开的实施方案可以包括一种系统，所述系统用于读取包含多个带无线标签的产品的场所中的无线传输标签并且用于自动生成补货警告。带无线标签的产品可以包括可以与标签相关联的任何物品。产品可以包括在场所内储存或保持的任何物体或材料。通过非限制性举例的方式，产品可以包括食品、服装、鞋类、电子产品、消费品、装备、车辆、消耗品、包装、配饰、供应品、材料、艺术品、动物、仪器、货板、容器、药品、化妆品、贸易品、物品、设备、机器、器具、机件、工具、家具或场所中可能存在的任何其他物体。在一些实施方案中，场所可以提供用于销售、交换或物物交换、用于展示、用于保管、用于储存、用于配送、和/或用于免费赠送的产品。无线传输标签可以与产品相关联，以使产品能够经由标签提供自我识别。Disclosed embodiments may include a system for reading wirelessly transmitted tags in a location containing a plurality of wirelessly tagged products and for automatically generating replenishment alerts. Wirelessly tagged products can include any item that can be associated with a tag. Products may include any object or material stored or maintained on the premises. By way of non-limiting example, products may include food, clothing, footwear, electronics, consumer goods, equipment, vehicles, consumables, packaging, accessories, supplies, materials, art, animals, instruments, pallets, containers , medicines, cosmetics, trade goods, articles, equipment, machines, appliances, parts, tools, furniture or any other objects that may be present in the premises. In some embodiments, a venue may offer products for sale, exchange or barter, for display, for safekeeping, for storage, for distribution, and/or for free giveaway. Wireless transmission tags can be associated with products to enable the products to provide self-identification via the tags.
无线传输标签的实施方案可以包括适合于附接到任何对象上的任何设备，以便在不使用外部连接的缆线或电线的情况下，视觉地、触觉地、听觉地或电子地识别对象。其他实施方案可以作为制造过程的一部分或稍后嵌入到物品中，例如由零售商嵌入。补货警告可以包括用于基于事件的发生指示需要对物品再进货的警告信号。在一些实施方案中，用户可以配置用于生成警告的事件以及在事件发生时生成的警告的类型。补货警告还可以包括建议对某些产品再进货的特定类型的警告。Embodiments of wirelessly transmitting tags may include any device suitable for attachment to any object to identify the object visually, tactilely, audibly, or electronically without the use of externally connected cables or wires. Other embodiments may be embedded into the item as part of the manufacturing process or later, such as by a retailer. Replenishment warnings may include warning signals that indicate the need for restocking of items based on the occurrence of an event. In some embodiments, a user can configure events for generating alerts and the type of alerts generated when the events occur. Restock warnings can also include specific types of warnings that recommend restocking certain products.
在场所处的库存管理的背景下，警告信号可以指示某些库存的物品或产品低于期望的最小库存水平(或将要低于期望的最小库存水平)，或替代性地指示它们高于期望的最大库存水平。其他警告信号可以指示某些库存的物品或产品具有接近或已经过了的到期日期，或者已经过了(或将要过了)某个物品或产品存在于场所中的时间段阈值。In the context of inventory management at a site, warning signals may indicate that certain items or products in stock are below (or about to fall below) a desired minimum stock level, or alternatively that they are above a desired minimum stock level. Maximum inventory level. Other warning signals may indicate that certain inventory items or products have an expiration date that is approaching or has passed, or that a time period threshold for an item or product to be present on the premises has passed (or will soon pass).
带无线标签的产品可以对无线传输标签供能以激活标签来提供信息。无线传输标签的电源可以是来自AC或DC电路的连续电源或诸如电池等存储能量。在一些实施方案中，带无线标签的产品的标签没有电池。当带无线标签的产品没有能量源时，与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签可以由外部设备激活。例如，具有NFC能力的智能电话的用户可以通过使智能电话靠近具有RFID标签的带无线标签的产品以激活无线传输标签来请求激活无线标签。Products with wireless tags can power the wireless transmission tag to activate the tag to provide information. Power for wireless transmission tags can be continuous power from an AC or DC circuit or stored energy such as a battery. In some embodiments, the tags of wirelessly tagged products do not have batteries. When the wireless tagged product does not have an energy source, the wireless transmission tag associated with the wireless tagged product can be activated by an external device. For example, a user of an NFC-capable smartphone can request activation of a wireless tag by bringing the smartphone close to a wireless-tagged product that has an RFID tag to activate the wireless transmission tag.
在一些实施方案中，带无线标签的产品的标签由电容器供能。由外部设备提供的能量可以被短暂地存储在电容器中以激活无线传输标签以发射共享与相关联的带无线标签的产品有关的信息的无线信号。电容器可以是用于在无线传输标签中存储能量的硬件部件。如上文所讨论的，无线传输标签可以包括能量存储电路，所述能量存储电路具有被配置成存储由外部设备共享的环境能量的存储电容器。另外地或替代性地，标签可以包括2.4GHz采集器，所述采集器被配置成在约900MHz的频段中采集能量(例如，约900MHz的环境和有意的能量源，诸如此频段中的RFID或蜂窝信号)。存储电容器可以电连接到无线电能量采集器以存储由采集器接收的环境能量并且与采集器一起对带无线标签的产品供能。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签可以包括被配置用于收集和存储由无线传输标签所采集的环境能量的转移电容器。在一些实施方案中，环境能量可以由采集器收集并且初始地存储在转移电容器中。转移电容器可以被配置用于临时存储以电能形式收集的环境能量，并且存储电容器可以被配置为以电能形式收集的环境能量的主存储器。在电容器中采集、收集和存储的能量可以用于对无线传输标签的电路系统供能。In some embodiments, the tags of wirelessly tagged products are powered by capacitors. Energy provided by the external device may be briefly stored in the capacitor to activate the wireless transmission tag to transmit a wireless signal that shares information about the associated wirelessly tagged product. Capacitors may be hardware components used to store energy in wirelessly transmitted tags. As discussed above, the wireless transmitting tag may include an energy storage circuit having a storage capacitor configured to store ambient energy shared by an external device. Additionally or alternatively, the tag may include a 2.4 GHz harvester configured to harvest energy in a frequency band of approximately 900 MHz (e.g., ambient and intentional energy sources of approximately 900 MHz, such as RFID or RFID in this frequency band). cellular signal). The storage capacitor may be electrically connected to the wireless energy harvester to store ambient energy received by the harvester and, together with the harvester, power the wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, a wireless transmitting tag may include a transfer capacitor configured to collect and store ambient energy harvested by the wireless transmitting tag. In some embodiments, ambient energy can be collected by the harvester and initially stored in a transfer capacitor. The transfer capacitor may be configured for temporary storage of ambient energy collected in the form of electrical energy, and the storage capacitor may be configured as a primary storage of ambient energy harvested in the form of electrical energy. The energy harvested, collected and stored in the capacitor can be used to power the circuitry of the wireless transmission tag.
在一些实施方案中，系统包括用于对带无线标签的产品的标签进行无线供能的至少一个发射器。发射器可以包括被配置成传送、发送、辐射、递送或输出信号的任何电路。信号可以包含能量，使得一旦被接收，所述能量就被接收标签使用以对标签供能。发射器因此可以包括用于发射包含能量的信号的一个或多个天线，并且标签可以各自包括用于接收包含能量的信号的一个或多个天线。发射器可以将直接从电源获得的能量或预先存储在电容器或其他能量存储部件中的能量传输到带无线标签的产品的无线传输标签中的电力电路系统。In some embodiments, the system includes at least one transmitter for wirelessly powering a tag of a wirelessly tagged product. A transmitter may include any circuit configured to transmit, transmit, radiate, deliver or output a signal. The signal may contain energy such that, once received, the energy is used by the receiving tag to power the tag. The transmitter may thus comprise one or more antennas for transmitting a signal containing energy, and the tags may each comprise one or more antennas for receiving a signal containing energy. The transmitter can transmit energy obtained directly from the power source or energy pre-stored in a capacitor or other energy storage component to the power circuit system in the wireless transmission tag of the product with the wireless tag.
所公开的实施方案可以包括如在本公开文本中的其他地方所描述的至少一个处理器。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成从场所中的多个接收器接收来自多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号，其中无线信号反映与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。在一些实施方案中，无线信号包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。ID(例如，标签ID)可以包括无线传输标签中的给定一个无线传输标签的信息，所述信息向用户和/或向其他设备或设备部件标识标签。ID可以包括数字、字母、字符、码、字符串或其他形式的数据，其可以向接收ID的其他设备或设备部件标识无线传输标签。在一些实施方案中，ID对于特定标签可以是唯一的，并且该特定标签可以仅具有一个ID。替代性地，同一个标签可以有多个ID。在一些实施方案中，多个标签可以共享相同的ID或ID组。ID的例子可以包括序列号、零件号、条形码、UUID、EPC和/或其他数据。Disclosed implementations may include at least one processor as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to receive wireless signals from a plurality of wirelessly tagged products from a plurality of receivers in the venue, wherein the wireless signals reflect information related to each of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. The ID associated with the product with the wireless tag. In some embodiments, the wireless signal includes an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. The ID (eg, tag ID) may include information for a given one of the wirelessly transmitted tags that identifies the tag to a user and/or to other devices or device components. The ID may include numbers, letters, characters, codes, strings, or other forms of data that may identify the wirelessly transmitted tag to other devices or device components receiving the ID. In some embodiments, an ID may be unique to a particular tag, and that particular tag may have only one ID. Alternatively, the same tag can have multiple IDs. In some implementations, multiple tags may share the same ID or group of IDs. Examples of IDs may include serial numbers, part numbers, barcodes, UUIDs, EPCs, and/or other data.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成访问将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与多个产品型号中的一个产品型号相关联的至少一个数据结构。在一些实施方案中，多个产品型号中的每个产品型号与SKU相关联。如本文所使用的，产品型号可以包括具有共同属性的产品的实例，所述共同属性是使用与作为库存管理系统、库存保持系统或其他此类数据管理平台的一部分的产品、物品、对象、材料等类型唯一相关联的数字、码或其他形式的数据来标识的。表示产品型号的码的例子包括SKU码、EPC码、条形码、ISBN码、产品号、零件号、目录号等。可以使用虚拟地表示产品型号的物理实例的产品型号码来标识和管理产品型号。In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to access at least one data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with one of a plurality of product models. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of product models is associated with a SKU. As used herein, product models may include instances of products that share common attributes that are used with products, items, objects, materials that are part of an inventory management system, inventory retention system, or other such data management platform. Identified by numbers, codes or other forms of data uniquely associated with other types. Examples of codes representing product models include SKU codes, EPC codes, bar codes, ISBN codes, product numbers, part numbers, catalog numbers, etc. Product models can be identified and managed using a product type number that virtually represents a physical instance of the product model.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成在数据结构中对与至少一个带无线标签的产品的至少一个ID相关联的产品型号执行查找。至少一个处理器可以使用标识信息(诸如标签ID)来确定与带无线标签的产品相关的产品。例如，至少一个处理器可以搜索存储与标签ID相关联的产品型号细节的数据结构。通过举例的方式，在查找产品型号中利用的数据结构可以包括哈希图，所述哈希图可以具有包括带无线标签的产品的ID和值的键，所述值具有一个或多个产品型号细节，诸如产品名称、尺寸、技术规格、制造商名称、品牌名称和/或与产品型号相关联的任何其他信息或数据。在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以包括指向包含产品细节的存储位置(例如，存储器位置)的键。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以将由与带无线标签的产品相关联的无线传输标签发射的无线信号中包括的数据或信息转换成与带无线标签的产品相关联的标签ID。转换可以包括组合不同的数据(例如，产品序列号、无线信号接收时间戳、无线信号特性(诸如振幅和角度))以唯一地识别产品型号。转换可以进一步包括对所传输的数据进行解密、解扰、重新排序或其他预定义的数学操作。例如，与具有无线传输标签的服装产品相关联的唯一标签ID可以包括诸如品牌名称、产品名称和尺寸等信息。系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以用于转换所接收的无线信号中的数据以生成标签ID，并且通过使用标签ID在上文定义的数据结构中包括的哈希图中查找产品型号的位置来使用其访问产品型号。处理器然后可以访问所识别的存储位置以检索产品型号。In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to perform a lookup in the data structure for a product model associated with at least one ID of at least one wirelessly tagged product. At least one processor may use identification information, such as a tag ID, to determine a product associated with the wirelessly tagged product. For example, at least one processor may search a data structure that stores product model details associated with the tag ID. By way of example, the data structure utilized in looking up product models may include a hash map that may have keys including the IDs of wirelessly tagged products and values having one or more product models. Details such as product name, dimensions, technical specifications, manufacturer name, brand name and/or any other information or data associated with the product model. In some embodiments, the data structure may include keys pointing to storage locations (eg, memory locations) containing product details. In some embodiments, at least one processor may convert data or information included in a wireless signal transmitted by a wireless transmission tag associated with the wirelessly tagged product into a tag ID associated with the wirelessly tagged product. Transformation may include combining disparate data (eg, product serial number, wireless signal reception timestamp, wireless signal characteristics such as amplitude and angle) to uniquely identify the product model. Transformation may further include decrypting, descrambling, reordering, or other predefined mathematical operations on the transmitted data. For example, a unique tag ID associated with an apparel product with a wirelessly transmitted tag may include information such as brand name, product name, and size. A processor of the system (e.g., processor 11004 of Figure 11) may be used to convert the data in the received wireless signal to generate a tag ID, and by using the tag ID in a hash map included in the data structure defined above Find the location of the product model number to use to access the product model number. The processor can then access the identified storage location to retrieve the product model number.
在一些实施方案中，一个或多个处理器可以被配置成基于查找来确定在场所中检测到的每个产品型号的总单位数量。例如，处理器可以对所执行的查找操作的数量进行计数以确定产品型号的总单位数量。处理器可以通过将与每个产品型号相关联的无线信号中存在的标签ID保存在列表中并且对列表中唯一标签ID的数量进行计数，来跟踪每个产品型号的单独计数。在一些实施方案中，当不存在其他列表时或当处理器先前尚未在数据结构中查找过产品型号时，处理器可以创建新的列表以添加标签ID。处理器可以在数据结构中存储在场所中存在的所有唯一标签ID的列表，并且基于来自系统的其他部分的报告不时地更新列表，并且使用该列表对产品型号的单位数量进行计数。先前由处理器访问或查找的与数据结构中的标签ID相关联的产品型号可以指向用于数据结构中进行查找的标签ID的每一个列表。在一些实施方案中，处理器可以维护计数器数组，每个产品型号对应一个计数器，并且在识别到数据结构中的产品型号时增加相应数组单元的值。In some embodiments, one or more processors may be configured to determine the total unit quantity of each product model detected in the location based on the lookup. For example, the processor may count the number of lookup operations performed to determine the total number of units of a product model. The processor may keep track of individual counts for each product model by saving the tag IDs present in the wireless signal associated with each product model in a list and counting the number of unique tag IDs in the list. In some embodiments, the processor may create a new list to add the tag ID when no other list exists or when the processor has not previously looked up the product model in the data structure. The processor may store a list of all unique tag IDs present in the premises in a data structure, and update the list from time to time based on reports from other parts of the system, and use the list to count the number of units of a product model. A product model previously accessed or looked up by the processor associated with a tag ID in the data structure may point to each list for the tag ID in the data structure being looked up. In some embodiments, the processor may maintain an array of counters, one counter for each product model, and increment the value of the corresponding array cell when a product model in the data structure is recognized.
处理器可以查找与标签ID相关联的产品型号达预定时间段以确定场所中的产品型号的单位数量。用户可以配置与每个产品型号相关联的预定时间量。在一些实施方案中，用户可以配置处理器可在接收到的无线信号中查找与标签ID相关联的产品型号的时间。例如，用户可以将处理器(例如，图11的处理器11003)配置成在营业时间之后在数据结构(例如，图11的数据结构11006)中查找产品型号ID的标签ID以查看在场所中剩余了多少单位的产品。在一些实施方案中，系统可以被配置成基于一年的时间来每天多次地计算每个产品型号的总单位计数。例如，用户可以将系统的处理器配置成在周末的一天期间多次地确定场所中存在的总单位计数，此时与工作日相比，场所可以有更多的访问者。The processor may look up the product model associated with the tag ID for a predetermined period of time to determine the number of units of the product model in the location. Users can configure the scheduled amount of time associated with each product model. In some embodiments, the user can configure the times at which the processor can look for the product model associated with the tag ID in a received wireless signal. For example, a user may configure a processor (e.g., processor 11003 of Figure 11) to look up a tag ID for a product model ID in a data structure (e.g., data structure 11006 of Figure 11) after business hours to see what is left in the establishment. How many units of product are produced. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to calculate the total unit count for each product model multiple times per day based on the time of year. For example, a user may configure the system's processor to determine the total unit count present in the venue multiple times during the day on weekends, when the venue may have more visitors than on weekdays.
在一些实施方案中，场所中的每个产品型号的所确定的总单位数量可以是估计值。处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以在收集由带无线标签的产品发射的无线信号达预定时间段并且使用无线信号中的标签ID来查找产品型号码时确认产品型号的总单位数量。在预定时间段期间，处理器可以不从与场所中的产品型号相关联的每个带无线标签的产品接收无线信号。因此，产品型号的总单位计数可能不代表场所中存在的确切单位计数。于是，由处理器确定的单位计数可以被认为是对场所中实际单位计数的估计。替代性地或另外地，处理器可以使用在时间段期间从其接收到无线信号的单位计数以及关于无线识别标签的传输速率的信息来生成存在于场所中的实际单位数量的估计。In some embodiments, the determined total number of units for each product model in a location may be an estimate. A processor (eg, processor 11004 of FIG. 11 ) may confirm the total unit quantity of the product model while collecting wireless signals emitted by the wirelessly tagged product for a predetermined period of time and using the tag ID in the wireless signal to look up the product model number. . During a predetermined period of time, the processor may not receive wireless signals from each wirelessly tagged product associated with the product model in the location. Therefore, the total unit count for a product model may not represent the exact unit count present at the facility. The unit count determined by the processor can then be considered an estimate of the actual unit count at the location. Alternatively or additionally, the processor may use a count of units from which wireless signals were received during the time period and information about the transmission rate of the wireless identification tags to generate an estimate of the actual number of units present in the venue.
在一些实施方案中，可以通过处理产品型号的单位数量来确定场所中的产品型号的总单位数量的估计，所述产品型号的单位数量通过收集和处理由无线传输标签发射的无线信号中存在的标签ID及其相关联的产品型号来识别。系统的处理器可以计算如从所接收和处理的不同无线信号集合计算的产品型号的总单位数量的平均值、均值或中值，以从无线信号中的标签ID识别产品型号且将其用作估计值。在计算产品型号的单位数量的平均值、均值和中值时使用的不同无线信号集合可以具有在至少两个集合之间共享的重叠信号。在一些实施方案中，用于计算产品型号的总单位计数的一组信号可以是信号的子集。在一些实施方案中，产品型号的各个单位计数可以用作离散的一组估计值。在一些实施方案中，可以对各个计数进行排序(例如，按照升序或降序排列)以确定值的范围并且使用所确定的范围作为产品型号的总单位数量的估计。In some embodiments, an estimate of the total number of units of a product model in a venue may be determined by processing the number of units of the product model present in the wireless signals transmitted by the wireless transmitting tags. Tag ID and its associated product model number. The processor of the system may calculate an average, mean, or median of the total number of units of the product model as calculated from the different sets of wireless signals received and processed to identify the product model from the tag ID in the wireless signal and use it as estimated value. The different sets of wireless signals used in calculating the mean, mean, and median for the unit number of product models may have overlapping signals shared between at least two sets. In some embodiments, the set of signals used to calculate the total unit count for a product model may be a subset of the signals. In some embodiments, individual unit counts for product models may be used as a discrete set of estimates. In some embodiments, the individual counts may be sorted (eg, in ascending or descending order) to determine a range of values and use the determined range as an estimate of the total unit quantity of the product model.
在一些实施方案中，估计值可以基于来自一些远程感测系统(例如，计算机视觉系统、标签读取系统、成像雷达系统、LIDAR检测系统等)的数据，或其可以基于关于商店中的库存移动的历史数据，或其可以基于先前的库存计数和销售数据的组合，或以上的任何组合。In some embodiments, the estimate may be based on data from some remote sensing system (e.g., computer vision system, tag reading system, imaging radar system, LIDAR detection system, etc.) or it may be based on information about inventory movement in the store historical data, or it can be based on a combination of previous inventory counts and sales data, or any combination of the above.
在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器被配置成在至少一个数据结构中访问与场所中的每个产品型号相关联的目标单位阈值。目标阈值可以是存储在数据存储装置中的值。目标阈值的值可以是库存中需要或预期的实际或估计的单位数量。通过举例的方式，所公开的实施方案可以包括类似于数据结构11006的布置(如图1所示)，并且可以指示场所需要在库存中具有或在场所中展示的产品型号的最小单位数量。在一些实施方案中，阈值是数字或数字范围中的至少一个。阈值可以包括基于各种因素的多个离散值，诸如场所大小、一年中的时间、对场所中的库存进行补货的时间、或可能影响场所中的产品的接收或销售的任何其他因素。例如，产品型号的单位数量的阈值可以基于场所大小而变化，其中较大场所(诸如超级商店)中的产品型号的单位的阈值数量较高，而较小场所(诸如邻里商店)中的阈值较低。在另一个场景中，产品型号的阈值在一年中的与诸如感恩节、圣诞节和/或其他假期等与较高销售量相关联的时段期间可能较高。可以允许用户使用处理器来配置与产品型号相关联的单位的阈值数量并且将所述阈值存储在数据结构中。在一些实施方案中，可以允许用户标识较高销售量的时段和与每个这样的时段相关联的阈值。In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to access in at least one data structure a target unit threshold associated with each product model in the venue. The target threshold may be a value stored in a data storage device. The value of the target threshold can be the actual or estimated number of units required or expected in inventory. By way of example, the disclosed embodiments may include an arrangement similar to data structure 11006 (shown in FIG. 1 ) and may indicate a minimum number of units of a product model that a venue is required to have in inventory or display at the venue. In some embodiments, the threshold is at least one of a number or a range of numbers. Thresholds may include multiple discrete values based on various factors, such as site size, time of year, time to replenish inventory at the site, or any other factor that may affect receipt or sale of product at the site. For example, the threshold number of units of a product model may vary based on location size, with the threshold number of units of a product model being higher in larger locations (such as a super store) and lower in smaller locations (such as a neighborhood store). Low. In another scenario, the threshold for a product model may be higher during times of the year that are associated with higher sales volumes, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and/or other holidays. The user may be allowed to use the processor to configure a threshold number of units associated with a product model and store the threshold in a data structure. In some embodiments, a user may be allowed to identify periods of higher sales volume and a threshold associated with each such period.
在一些实施方案中，阈值可以是数字范围。例如，阈值可以代表需要满足的多个条件，以便通过所述阈值。例如，3至5的阈值数字范围可以与诸如“少于三个物品，或如果库存低于该水平超过十二个小时则少于五个物品”的条件相关联。作为另一个例子，2至3的阈值数字范围可以与诸如“少于两个物品”的条件相关联，除非是星期五，在这种情况下为“少于三个物品”。In some embodiments, the threshold may be a numerical range. For example, a threshold may represent multiple conditions that need to be met in order to pass the threshold. For example, a threshold number range of 3 to 5 could be associated with a condition such as "fewer than three items, or less than five items if inventory has been below that level for more than twelve hours." As another example, a threshold number range of 2 to 3 could be associated with a condition such as "fewer than two items" unless it is a Friday, in which case "fewer than three items".
系统的处理器可以通过使用与产品型号码相关联的码从数据结构检索产品型号的单位的阈值数量。数据结构可以包括哈希图，其中表示产品型号的码作为指向产品型号的单位阈值数量的值的键。处理器可以通过提供标识产品型号的码来访问数据结构以查找产品型号的阈值。在一些实施方案中，哈希图可以指向列表中的存储器位置，所述列表具有针对一年中的不同环境和时间与产品型号相关联的各种阈值。The system's processor may retrieve the threshold number of units of the product model number from the data structure by using a code associated with the product model number. The data structure may include a hash map in which a code representing a product model serves as a key pointing to a value per unit threshold number of product models. The processor may access the data structure to find the threshold for the product model by providing a code that identifies the product model. In some embodiments, the hash map may point to memory locations in a list with various thresholds associated with product models for different environments and times of year.
一些实施方案可以涉及将每个产品型号的所确定的总单位数量与目标阈值进行比较，以确定特定产品型号何时下降到低于相关联的阈值。例如，处理器可以将场所中的产品型号的总单位计数和与该产品型号和/或场所相关联的阈值进行比较。总可用单位与阈值的比较可以用于采取一个或多个动作，诸如确定产品型号是否数量低且需要被再进货或者是否数量过高且需要被移动到仓库。系统的处理器(例如，图11的处理器11004)可以在一天、一周、一个月或任何其他期望的时间段内一次或多次地将产品型号的总单位与其阈值进行比较。将场所中的产品型号的总可用单位与其阈值进行比较的总次数和频率可以根据每个产品型号而不同。在一些实施方案中，产品型号的比较计划可以基于各种因素，诸如场所大小、一天中的时间或一年中的时间。例如，将场所中的产品型号的总单位数量与其阈值进行比较的频率可以基于场所大小而不同，其中在较大场所(诸如具有单位数量高的产品型号可用的超级商店)中具有较低频率，并且在较小场所(诸如具有低单位数量的产品型号的邻里商店)中具有较高频率。在另一个场景中，产品型号的比较计划可以在诸如感恩节、圣诞节或其他假期等具有较高销售量的时段期间包括较高频率。可以允许用户使用处理器来配置产品型号的比较计划频率并且将所述频率存储在数据结构中。在一些实施方案中，可以允许用户标识较高销售量的时段和与每个配置的时段相关联的比较频率。Some embodiments may involve comparing the determined total unit quantity for each product model to a target threshold to determine when a particular product model drops below the associated threshold. For example, the processor may compare the total unit count of a product model in a location to a threshold associated with the product model and/or location. Comparison of the total available units to a threshold can be used to take one or more actions, such as determining whether a product model is low in quantity and needs to be restocked or if the quantity is too high and needs to be moved to a warehouse. The system's processor (eg, processor 11004 of Figure 11) may compare the product model's total units to its threshold value one or more times during the day, week, month, or any other desired time period. The total number and frequency of comparing the total available units of a product model in a site to its threshold may differ for each product model. In some embodiments, the comparison schedule of product models may be based on various factors, such as location size, time of day, or time of year. For example, the frequency with which the total unit quantity of a product model in a location is compared to its threshold may differ based on location size, with lower frequency in larger locations such as super stores with high unit quantities of product models available. and with higher frequency in smaller locations such as neighborhood stores with low unit quantities of product models. In another scenario, a comparison plan for product models could include higher frequency during periods of higher sales such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holidays. The user may be allowed to use the processor to configure comparison schedule frequencies for product models and store the frequencies in a data structure. In some embodiments, a user may be allowed to identify periods of higher sales volume and a comparison frequency associated with each configured period.
所公开的比较可以包括产品型号的单位阈值数量与存在于场所中的产品的单位数量的简单比较。在一些实施方案中，所述比较可以包括比较产品型号的总单位数量是否落在产品型号的阈值范围内和/或总单位数量与最小或最大阈值的接近程度。处理器可以基于场所中的产品型号的总单位数量落在产品型号的值的阈值范围内的何处而采取不同的动作。例如，如果场所中的产品型号的可用总单位数量接近产品型号的值的阈值范围的最小值，则可能需要立即将所述产品型号再进货。在另一个场景中，如果场所中的产品型号的可用总单位数量接近值的阈值范围的最大值，则处理器可以提供用于在场所中将产品型号再进货的时间线。The disclosed comparison may include a simple comparison of a threshold number of units of the product model to the number of units of the product present at the location. In some embodiments, the comparison may include comparing whether the total unit quantity of the product model falls within a threshold range of the product model and/or how close the total unit quantity is to a minimum or maximum threshold. The processor may take different actions based on where the total number of units of the product model in the venue falls within a threshold range of values for the product model. For example, if the total number of units available for a product model in a facility is close to the minimum of a threshold range of values for the product model, the product model may need to be immediately restocked. In another scenario, if the total number of available units of a product model in a site is near the maximum of a threshold range of values, the processor may provide a timeline for restocking the product model in the site.
一些实施方案可以涉及输出对于特定产品型号的补货通知。通知是由一个系统的部件生成的信号，所述信号用于向系统的另一个部件、或不同的系统或人(或上述的任意组合)警告某个事件的发生。除了其他形式之外，通知信号可以是可听的(诸如当反向驾驶时重型卡车发出哔哔声)、视觉的(诸如救护车的闪光灯警告其他驾驶员让出道路)、另一种感觉信号(诸如当呼叫进入时设定为“静音”的电话振动)、或数字信号(诸如到移动设备上的应用的通知信号、到电路板中的CPU的中断信号、或系统警告日志中的条目)。Some implementations may involve outputting restock notifications for specific product models. A notification is a signal generated by a component of a system to warn another component of the system, or a different system or person (or any combination of the above) of the occurrence of an event. Notification signals may be audible (such as the beeping sound of a heavy truck when driving in the opposite direction), visual (such as the flashing lights of an ambulance warning other drivers to get out of the way), another sensory signal, among other forms (such as a vibration of a phone set to "silent" when a call comes in), or a digital signal (such as a notification signal to an application on the mobile device, an interrupt signal to the CPU in the circuit board, or an entry in the system warning log) .
补货通知是指示需要执行补货动作的通知。这个通知可以被发送给商店雇员，指导他们需要将产品从商店的储存区域带到商店的展示区域，从而产品将可供销售。在一些实施方案中，通知可以被发送给商店雇员，指导他们需要从仓库订购产品，因为它在商店中不再可获得(或预期在某个未来时间点不再可获得)并且需要被补货。作为另一个例子，可以从场所中的库存管理系统向组织的中央订购系统发送通知，从而生成对场所处的库存进行补货的自动订单。A replenishment notification is a notification indicating that a replenishment action needs to be performed. This notification can be sent to store employees instructing them that they need to bring the product from the store's storage area to the store's display area so that the product will be available for sale. In some embodiments, a notification may be sent to store employees instructing them that they need to order product from the warehouse because it is no longer available in the store (or is expected to no longer be available at some future point in time) and needs to be restocked . As another example, notifications can be sent from the inventory management system at the site to the organization's central ordering system, thereby generating automated orders to restock inventory at the site.
当场所中的特定产品型号的总单位数量下降到低于与该产品型号相关联的单位阈值数量时，可以针对每个产品型号向用户设备发送单独的补货通知。特定产品型号的补货通知可以实时发送，或者可以被延迟并与其他产品型号通知一起以批量方式发送。补货通知的定时可以基于特定产品型号的总单位数量与关联于该产品型号的阈值相不同的量。补货通知的定时可以指示对场所中的特定产品型号的单位再进货的紧迫性。When the total number of units for a particular product model in a facility drops below a threshold number of units associated with that product model, separate restock notifications may be sent to user devices for each product model. Restock notifications for specific product models can be sent in real time, or can be delayed and sent in batches with other product model notifications. The timing of replenishment notifications may be based on the amount by which the total unit quantity of a particular product model differs from a threshold associated with that product model. The timing of replenishment notifications can indicate the urgency of restocking units of a particular product model in the facility.
在一些实施方案中，通知可以包括特定型号的总单位数量低于阈值的消息。补货通知可以包括以文本格式显示在用户设备上以采取动作的消息。消息可以包括通知的原因(例如，产品的特定型号的总单位数量低于阈值)以及对所建议或需要采取的动作的描述。在一些实施方案中，补货通知可以包括针对原因和动作的码，并且用户设备(例如，用户设备11008)可以查找文本消息以确定补货通知的原因和要采取的动作。In some embodiments, the notification may include a message that the total number of units of a particular model is below a threshold. Restock notifications may include messages in text format that are displayed on the user's device to take action. The message may include the reason for the notification (for example, the total number of units for a specific model of the product is below a threshold) and a description of the action that is recommended or required. In some embodiments, the restock notification may include a code for the cause and action, and a user device (eg, user device 11008) may look up the text message to determine the cause of the restock notification and the action to take.
在一些实施方案中，数据结构可以存储多个补货规则，并且响应于补货通知，至少一个处理器可以被配置成从多个补货规则中访问相关联的补货规则，并且提交用于对特定产品进行再进货的订单。在一些实施方案中，至少一个处理器可以被配置成访问补货规则，以防止对于特定产品的再进货订单提交。In some embodiments, the data structure may store a plurality of replenishment rules, and in response to a replenishment notification, at least one processor may be configured to access an associated replenishment rule from the plurality of replenishment rules and submit for An order for restocking a specific product. In some embodiments, at least one processor may be configured to access replenishment rules to prevent restocking orders from being submitted for specific products.
如本文所使用的，补货规则可以包括基于可能宽泛的输入数组来确定是否需要执行补货的一组算法、条件或要求。补货规则还可以提供与补货相关联的要求。通过举例的方式，补货规则可以指定，当产品在过去N天内未被购买时，产品型号可以不被补货或再进货。作为另一个例子，补货规则可以指定，可以基于一周中的一天和/或一天中的时间来对产品型号进行补货。通过另一个例子，补货规则可以指定，如果即将到来的一周包括假期、特殊事件、或计划销售或计划新系列上市，则可以对产品型号进行补货。可以以一个或多个补货规则的形式指定用于对产品型号进行补货的各种其他条件。对算法的输入可以包括例如销售历史、库存历史、参与历史、目录信息、价格信息、价格变化信息、日期和时间信息、人员编制信息、组织过程信息(例如，设置补货时间或设置订单要求)、或者指示产品型号进入场所(例如，由于再进货或顾客的退货)或离开场所(例如，由于销售)的量或速率的任何其他信息。对于补货的要求可以包括例如订单中物品的最小或最大数量、在限定时间段中若干集中订单上的组合的最小或最大数量、产品信息与订单被发往的设施、组织或实体之间的关联。As used herein, a replenishment rule may include a set of algorithms, conditions, or requirements that determine whether replenishment needs to be performed based on a potentially broad array of inputs. Replenishment rules can also provide requirements associated with replenishment. By way of example, replenishment rules can specify that product models may not be replenished or restocked when the product has not been purchased within the past N days. As another example, replenishment rules may specify that product models may be replenished based on day of the week and/or time of day. By way of another example, a replenishment rule could specify that product models can be restocked if the upcoming week includes holidays, special events, or planned sales or planned launches of new collections. Various other conditions for replenishing product models can be specified in the form of one or more replenishment rules. Inputs to the algorithm may include, for example, sales history, inventory history, participation history, catalog information, pricing information, price change information, date and time information, staffing information, organizational process information (e.g., setting replenishment times or setting order requirements) , or any other information indicating the volume or rate at which product models are entering the premises (e.g., due to restocking or customer returns) or leaving the premises (e.g., due to sales). Requirements for replenishment may include, for example, minimum or maximum quantities of items in an order, minimum or maximum quantities combined on a number of concentrated orders within a defined time period, differences between product information and the facility, organization or entity to which the order is sent. association.
补货规则可以包括当特定产品型号的总单位数量不同于与产品型号相关联的阈值时要求执行动作的指令。补货规则可以由用户生成并存储在诸如数据结构11006(如图11所示)等数据存储装置中。当总单位数量与单位阈值数量之间的差大于预定差值时，这两个值可被视为不同。在一些实施方案中，预定差值可以包括与估计产品型号的总单位数量相关联的误差百分比。在一些实施方案中，当总单位数量低于包括在与特定型号相关联的阈值中的值范围时，总单位数量可以被认为不同于阈值数量。在一些实施方案中，可以允许用户将不同的预定差值配置成与不同的产品型号、不同的场所和/或不同的时间段相关联。可以允许用户使用处理器来配置与产品型号相关联的预定差值，并将其存储在数据结构(例如，图11的数据结构11006)中。当特定型号的总单位数量不同于产品型号的单位阈值数量时，处理器可以发送补货通知。Replenishment rules may include instructions requiring action when the total unit quantity of a particular product model differs from a threshold associated with the product model. Replenishment rules may be generated by the user and stored in a data store such as data structure 11006 (shown in Figure 11). When the difference between the total number of units and the threshold number of units is greater than a predetermined difference, the two values may be considered different. In some embodiments, the predetermined difference may include a percentage error associated with the estimated total unit quantity of the product model. In some embodiments, the total number of units may be considered different from the threshold number when the total number of units is below a range of values included in the threshold associated with a particular model. In some embodiments, a user may be allowed to configure different predetermined differences to be associated with different product models, different locations, and/or different time periods. The user may be allowed to use the processor to configure a predetermined difference value associated with the product model and store it in a data structure (eg, data structure 11006 of Figure 11). The processor can send a restock notification when the total unit quantity for a particular model differs from the product model's unit threshold quantity.
用户设备可以在接收到基于产品型号的总单位数量与阈值单位数量之间的差生成的补货通知时访问一个或多个补货规则。用户设备可以通过使用表示产品型号的码搜索数据结构来访问一个或多个补货规则。在一些实施方案中，由用户设备接收的补货通知可以包括表示产品型号的码。数据结构可以包括哈希图，其中产品型号作为指向补货规则的键。用户设备可以提供产品型号作为对哈希图的输入以查找一个或多个补货规则。所访问的一个或多个补货规则可以包括以用户设备上的显示的形式呈现给用户的指令。补货指令可以包括与在场所中对产品型号进货相关联的动作。动作可以包括在场所的不同区域(例如，前部展示区域、后部仓库区域)中对产品型号的单位进行再进货或将产品型号的单位从场所的一个区域移动到另一个区域。对单位进行再进货可以包括针对产品型号的单位从供应商下订单以装运到场所。The user device may access one or more replenishment rules upon receipt of a replenishment notification generated based on the difference between the total unit quantity of the product model and the threshold unit quantity. The user device can access one or more replenishment rules by searching a data structure using a code representing the product model. In some embodiments, the restock notification received by the user device may include a code representing the product model. The data structure can include a hashmap with product models as keys pointing to replenishment rules. The user device can provide the product model as input to the hash map to find one or more replenishment rules. The one or more replenishment rules accessed may include instructions presented to the user in the form of a display on the user device. Replenishment instructions may include actions associated with restocking product models at the site. Actions may include restocking units of the product model in different areas of the facility (eg, front display area, rear warehouse area) or moving units of the product model from one area of the facility to another. Restocking units may include placing an order for units of a product model from a supplier for shipment to the site.
如本文所使用的，订单可以包括装运所请求产品的购物车订单。在一些实施方案中，订单可以被发送到远程系统以将产品型号的单位从储存设施带到场所。购物车订单可以导致将物品自动添加到购物车并将到购物车的链接呈现给用户以授权和/或下订单。As used herein, an order may include a shopping cart order shipping requested products. In some embodiments, orders may be sent to a remote system to bring units of the product model from the storage facility to the location. Shopping cart orders may result in items being automatically added to the shopping cart and a link to the shopping cart being presented to the user to authorize and/or place the order.
一些实施方案可以涉及访问补货规则，以基于以下各项中的至少一项来延迟提交用于对特定产品进行再进货的订单：再进货订单中的特定产品、在最近时间段内提交的多个其他再进货订单、在最近时间段内提交了其他再进货订单的特定产品、再进货订单中的特定产品的销售历史、在最近时间段内提交了其他再进货订单的特定产品的销售历史、或提交再进货订单的时间。例如，处理器可以执行一个或多个补货规则以确定在何处和何时发出再进货订单。一个或多个补货规则可以包括用于确定对产品型号的单位进行订购的位置和时间的各种条件。用于订购产品型号的单位的位置可以表示场所可以从其获得产品型号的一个或多个单位的一个或多个源。这样的源可以包括例如电子商务商店和相关联的网站、产品制造商的网站、批发商的网站、或与向场所供应一个或多个产品的实体或人相关联的实际或电子地址。下订单可以是即时的或者可能基于各种因素而延迟。可能是延迟对产品型号再进货的下订单的因素可以包括需要再进货的其他产品型号的订单、场所大小、一年中的时间、或可以确定是否一个或多个产品型号是否需要存在于场所中的其他条件。例如，在秋季期间对代表夏季服装系列的产品型号作出的再进货店订单请求可以被延迟，直到在紧随其后的夏季前即将到来的春季。在另一个场景中，具有较短保质期的产品(诸如农产品、乳制品或其他时间敏感的物品，诸如某种流行服装)针对再进货订单可以优先于其他再进货订单请求。用于确定处理产品的再进货订单的时间的一个或多个补货规则可以基于其他再进货订单在最近的时间段被提交的特定产品和与那些再进货订单相关联的元信息。这样的元信息可以包括例如在最近的时间段提交的其他再进货订单的数量(例如，总计数)、再进货订单中的特定产品的销售历史、在最近的时间段提交了其他再进货订单的特定产品的销售历史、或提交再进货订单的时间。例如，当产品的销售历史指示产品的销售量在长时间段内相对较小时(例如，在一周内或在一月内仅销售1或2个单位)，则可以延迟对该产品的再进货订单的提交。作为另一个例子，当先前已经提交了相同产品的若干其他再进货订单时，可以延迟对该产品的再进货订单的提交。可以使用各种其他标准来定义用于延迟对特定产品的再进货订单提交的规则。Some embodiments may involve accessing replenishment rules to delay submission of orders for restocking specific products based on at least one of the following: the specific product in the restocking order, multiple restocking orders submitted within the most recent time period, other restocking orders, specific products for which other restocking orders were submitted in the most recent time period, sales history for specific products in the restocking order, sales history for specific products for which other restocking orders were submitted in the most recent time period, or the time to submit a restock order. For example, the processor can execute one or more replenishment rules to determine where and when to place restock orders. The one or more replenishment rules may include various conditions for determining where and when units of a product model are ordered. The location of the unit for ordering the product model may represent one or more sources from which the site may obtain one or more units of the product model. Such sources may include, for example, e-commerce stores and associated websites, product manufacturer's websites, wholesaler's websites, or physical or electronic addresses associated with entities or persons supplying one or more products to the venue. Placing an order may be immediate or may be delayed based on various factors. Factors that may delay placing an order for restocking of a product model may include orders for other product models that require restocking, site size, time of year, or the determination of whether one or more product models need to be present at the site. other conditions. For example, a restocking store order request made during the fall for a product model representing a summer apparel line may be delayed until the upcoming spring before the immediately following summer. In another scenario, products with a shorter shelf life (such as produce, dairy products, or other time-sensitive items, such as certain fashion apparel) may be prioritized for restocking orders over other restocking order requests. One or more replenishment rules used to determine when to process restock orders for a product may be based on other restock orders submitted in the most recent time period for a specific product and meta-information associated with those restock orders. Such meta-information may include, for example, the number (e.g., total count) of other restock orders submitted in the most recent time period, the sales history of the specific products in the restock order, the number of other restock orders submitted in the most recent time period, The sales history of a specific product, or the time a restock order was submitted. For example, when a product's sales history indicates that the product's sales volume is relatively small over a long period of time (for example, only 1 or 2 units are sold in a week or a month), then a restock order for that product can be delayed submission. As another example, the submission of a restock order for a product may be delayed when several other restock orders for the same product have been previously submitted. Various other criteria can be used to define rules for deferring restock order submissions for specific products.
图25是展示了根据本公开文本的一些实施方案的用于生成补货通知的示例性方法25000的操作的流程图。在步骤25002中，至少一个处理器从接收器接收来自带无线标签的产品的无线信号。在一些实施方案中，无线信号可以包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID。在步骤25004中，至少一个处理器可以访问使无线信号中接收的ID与产品型号相关联的数据结构。在步骤23008中，至少一个处理器在数据结构中利用标签ID执行查找。在步骤25008中，至少一个处理器确定场所中的产品型号的总单位数量。在步骤25010中，至少一个处理器在数据结构中访问场所中的产品型号的阈值单位。在步骤25012中，至少一个处理器将产品型号的总单位数量与同一产品型号的单位阈值数量进行比较。在步骤25014中，至少一个处理器输出对于产品型号的补货通知。25 is a flow diagram illustrating operations of an exemplary method 25000 for generating replenishment notifications in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In step 25002, at least one processor receives a wireless signal from a receiver from a wirelessly tagged product. In some embodiments, the wireless signal may include an ID associated with each wirelessly tagged product of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products. In step 25004, at least one processor may access a data structure that associates an ID received in the wireless signal with a product model. In step 23008, at least one processor performs a lookup using the tag ID in the data structure. In step 25008, at least one processor determines the total number of units of the product model in the location. In step 25010, at least one processor accesses the threshold unit of the product model in the location in a data structure. In step 25012, at least one processor compares the total number of units for the product model to a threshold number of units for the same product model. In step 25014, at least one processor outputs a restock notification for the product model.
在步骤25002中，至少一个处理器可以从多个无线接收器接收与场所中的带无线标签的产品相关联的无线信号。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，属于系统11000的一个或多个处理器11004可以通过一个或多个接收器11300a-g接收与带无线标签的产品(诸如1106(如图1所展示的)和1122(如图1所展示的))相关联的一个或多个标签1100的无线信号。In step 25002, at least one processor may receive wireless signals associated with wirelessly tagged products in the venue from a plurality of wireless receivers. By way of example, as shown in FIG. 11 , one or more processors 11004 belonging to system 11000 may receive, through one or more receivers 11300a-g, a wirelessly tagged product, such as 1106 (shown in FIG. 1 ) and 1122 (as shown in FIG. 1 )) associated wireless signals of one or more tags 1100 .
在步骤25004中，响应于在步骤25002中接收的无线信号(包括带无线标签的产品的ID)，至少一个处理器可以访问将带无线标签的产品的ID与产品型号相关联的数据结构。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，一个或多个处理器11004可以在经由一个或多个接收器11300a-g接收到具有ID的无线信号时访问一个或多个数据结构11006。In step 25004, in response to the wireless signal (including the ID of the wireless tagged product) received in step 25002, at least one processor may access a data structure that associates the ID of the wireless tagged product with the product model. By way of example, as shown in Figure 11, one or more processors 11004 may access one or more data structures 11006 upon receiving a wireless signal with an ID via one or more receivers 11300a-g.
在步骤25006中，至少一个处理器可以利用所访问的数据结构对产品型号执行查找。通过举例的方式，如图14B所展示的，设备11008可以用于基于与关联于带无线标签的产品的无线传输标签相关联的所接收的ID信息来查找产品型号。In step 25006, at least one processor may perform a lookup of the product model using the accessed data structure. By way of example, as shown in Figure 14B, device 11008 may be used to look up a product model based on received ID information associated with a wirelessly transmitted tag associated with the wirelessly tagged product.
在步骤25008中，至少一个处理器可以使用在步骤25006中与ID相关联的所查找的产品型号来确定场所中的产品型号的总单位数量。通过举例的方式，如图14A所展示的，设备11008可以用于基于与关联于带无线标签的产品的无线传输标签相关联的所接收的ID信息来确定产品型号的总单位数量。In step 25008, at least one processor may use the looked up product model associated with the ID in step 25006 to determine the total unit quantity of the product model in the location. By way of example, as shown in Figure 14A, device 11008 may be configured to determine a total unit quantity of a product model based on received ID information associated with a wirelessly transmitted tag associated with the wirelessly tagged product.
在步骤25010中，至少一个处理器可以在数据结构中访问产品型号的阈值单位。通过举例的方式，如图11所展示的，处理器11004可以直接或通过网络11002访问数据结构11006以访问产品型号的阈值单位值。In step 25010, at least one processor may access the threshold unit of the product model in the data structure. By way of example, as shown in FIG. 11 , the processor 11004 may access the data structure 11006 directly or through the network 11002 to access the threshold unit value for the product model.
在步骤25012中，至少一个处理器将步骤25008中获得的产品型号的总单位数量与步骤25010中获得的同一产品型号的单位阈值数量进行比较。系统的实施方案可以进行比较以确定特定产品型号的总单位数量是否低于特定产品型号的单位阈值数量。In step 25012, at least one processor compares the total unit quantity of the product model obtained in step 25008 with the threshold quantity of units of the same product model obtained in step 25010. Embodiments of the system may perform comparisons to determine whether the total number of units for a particular product model is below a threshold number of units for a particular product model.
在步骤25014中，至少一个处理器基于步骤25012中的比较结果来输出产品型号的补货通知。通过举例的方式，如图14A所展示的，设备11008可以用于通知产品型号的补货。系统的实施方案共享请求再进货或避免再进货物品的再进货通知。系统的实施方案共享补货通知以在场所的不同区域之间移动产品型号的单位。In step 25014, at least one processor outputs a restock notification of the product model based on the comparison result in step 25012. By way of example, as shown in Figure 14A, device 11008 may be used to notify of restocking of a product model. Embodiments of the system share restock notifications for items that request restocking or avoid restocking. Embodiments of the system share replenishment notifications to move units of product models between different areas of the facility.
图26是展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的用于对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的示例性过程26110的流程图。过程26110是通过举例的方式提供的，并且普通技术人员将认识到与本公开文本一致的用于库存控制的各种其他过程。在步骤26112，过程26110可以包括接收来自至少一个无线传输标签的传输。在一些实施方案中，至少一个无线传输标签可以与先前所购买产品相关联。在步骤26114，过程26110可以包括访问来自场所的商店外产品购买的购买交易记录。在一些实施方案中，购买交易记录可以包括至少一个所购买产品的标识和与至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息。在步骤26116，过程26110可以包括接收与库存中的至少一个特定产品相关联的特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID，所述库存进而可以对应于至少一个所购买产品。在步骤26118，过程26110可以包括将至少一个特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录。在一些实施方案中，与购买交易相关联的记录可以包括购买交易记录中与至少一个所购买产品的商店外产品购买有关的数据。在步骤26120，过程26110可以包括从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知。在步骤26122，过程26110可以包括基于从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收的信息来授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取。在一些实施方案中，从移动通信设备接收的信息可以包括所购买产品正在被拾取的通知和/或从移动通信设备接收的其他信息。在步骤26124，过程26110可以包括当从接近于与场所相关联的电子物品监视(EAS)门的特定标签接收到传输时，禁用发起警报的能力。26 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 26110 for in-store pickup of previously purchased products consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Process 26110 is provided by way of example, and those of ordinary skill will recognize various other processes for inventory control consistent with this disclosure. At step 26112, process 26110 may include receiving a transmission from at least one wireless transmitting tag. In some embodiments, at least one wireless transmission tag can be associated with a previously purchased product. At step 26114, process 26110 may include accessing purchase transaction records for out-of-store product purchases from the venue. In some embodiments, the purchase transaction record may include an identification of at least one purchased product and purchaser identification information of a purchaser associated with the at least one purchased product. At step 26116, process 26110 may include receiving a unique tag ID of a particular wireless transmission tag associated with at least one particular product in inventory, which in turn may correspond to at least one purchased product. At step 26118, process 26110 may include assigning at least one specific product to the record associated with the purchase transaction. In some embodiments, a record associated with a purchase transaction may include data in the purchase transaction record related to an out-of-store product purchase of at least one purchased product. At step 26120, process 26110 may include receiving a notification from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the venue. At step 26122, process 26110 may include authorizing pickup of at least one specific product based on information received from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser. In some embodiments, information received from the mobile communications device may include notifications that purchased products are being picked up and/or other information received from the mobile communications device. At step 26124, process 26110 may include disabling the ability to initiate an alarm when a transmission is received from a specific tag proximate to an electronic article surveillance (EAS) door associated with the venue.
图27是展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的用于防止对带无线标签的退回物品的盗窃的示例性过程27110的流程图。过程27110是通过举例的方式提供的，并且普通技术人员将认识到与本公开文本一致的用于库存控制的各种其他过程。在步骤27112，过程27110可以包括接收来自无线传输标签的传输。在一些实施方案中，无线传输标签中的至少一个无线传输标签可以与先前从场所购买的产品相关联。在步骤27114，过程27110可以包括从移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知。在一些实施方案中，移动通信设备可以与先前所购买产品的先前购买者相关联。在步骤27116，过程27110可以包括在数据结构中识别与先前所购买产品相关联的特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID。在步骤27118，过程27110可以包括更新数据结构以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所。例如，可以基于接收到先前所购买产品被退回到场所的通知来更新数据结构。在步骤27120，过程27110可以包括当从接近于场所中的EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签接收到传输时启用发起警报的能力。27 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process 27110 for preventing theft of wirelessly tagged returned items consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Process 27110 is provided by way of example, and those of ordinary skill will recognize various other processes for inventory control consistent with this disclosure. At step 27112, process 27110 may include receiving a transmission from the wireless transmitting tag. In some embodiments, at least one of the wireless transmission tags may be associated with a product previously purchased from the venue. At step 27114, process 27110 may include receiving a notification from the mobile communications device of an intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue. In some embodiments, the mobile communication device may be associated with previous purchasers of previously purchased products. At step 27116, process 27110 may include identifying in a data structure the unique tag ID of the particular wireless transmission tag associated with the previously purchased product. At step 27118, process 27110 may include updating the data structure to indicate that the previously purchased product was returned to the venue. For example, the data structure may be updated based on receiving notification that a previously purchased product was returned to the venue. At step 27120, process 27110 may include enabling the ability to initiate an alert when a transmission is received from a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to an EAS gate in the venue.
图28是展示了与所公开的实施方案一致的用于执行无线交易的示例性过程28110的流程图。过程28110是通过举例的方式提供的，并且普通技术人员将认识到与本公开文本一致的用于库存控制的各种其他过程。在步骤28112，过程28110可以包括访问至少一个数据结构，所述至少一个数据结构包含多个展示区域的标识(展示区域ID)和与多个展示区域相关联的多个产品的标识(产品ID)。在步骤28114，过程28110可以包括从移动通信设备接收对与特定展示区域有关的信息的请求。在一些实施方案中，特定展示区域可以在移动通信设备的附近。在步骤28116，过程28110可以包括接收与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息。在步骤28118，过程28110可以包括在至少一个数据结构中执行查找以识别移动通信设备的地点中的特定展示区域。在一些实施方案中，可以响应于或基于所接收的位置信息来执行查找。在步骤28120，过程28110可以包括从至少一个数据结构检索与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息。在一些实施方案中，检索产品相关信息可以基于特定展示区域的标识。在步骤28122，过程28110可以包括向移动通信设备传输与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息。28 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 28110 for performing a wireless transaction consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Process 28110 is provided by way of example, and those of ordinary skill will recognize various other processes for inventory control consistent with this disclosure. At step 28112, process 28110 may include accessing at least one data structure containing identifications of a plurality of display areas (display area IDs) and identifications of a plurality of products associated with the plurality of display areas (product IDs). . At step 28114, process 28110 may include receiving a request from the mobile communications device for information related to a particular display area. In some embodiments, the specific display area may be in the vicinity of the mobile communication device. At step 28116, process 28110 may include receiving location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device. At step 28118, process 28110 may include performing a lookup in at least one data structure to identify a specific display area in the location of the mobile communications device. In some implementations, the lookup may be performed in response to or based on received location information. At step 28120, process 28110 may include retrieving product-related information for the product associated with the particular display area from at least one data structure. In some embodiments, retrieving product-related information may be based on identification of a particular display area. At step 28122, process 28110 may include transmitting to the mobile communications device product-related information for the product associated with the particular display area.
所公开的实施方案可以单独包括以下实心圆点后罗列出的特征中的任何一个特征或包括任何一个特征与一个或多个其他实心圆点后罗列出的特征的组合，无论是由至少一个处理器实现为系统和/或方法，还是存储为非暂时性计算机可读介质上的可执行指令。Disclosed embodiments may include any one of the features listed below with a solid dot alone or in combination with one or more other features listed with a solid dot, whether consisting of at least A processor is implemented as a system and/or method or stored as executable instructions on a non-transitory computer-readable medium.
·电子安全系统·Electronic security system
·提供产品的场所·Places where products are provided
·具有相关联的无线传输标签的产品·Products with associated wireless transmission tags
·至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门·At least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door
·被配置成接收来自无线传输标签的传输的至少一个接收器·At least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the wireless transmitting tag
·至少一个处理器·At least one processor
·从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签的特定标签ID，所述特定标签与用于从场所预期购买的特定产品相关联· Receiving a specific tag ID from a device operated by a prospective purchaser for a specific tag associated with a specific product intended for purchase from the venue
·访问数据结构，所述数据结构包含与场所中的多个产品相关联的多个标签ID· Access a data structure containing multiple tag IDs associated with multiple products in a venue
·在数据结构中对特定标签ID执行查找，由此识别特定产品Perform a lookup in the data structure for a specific tag ID to identify a specific product
·发起电子购买交易，以针对特定产品的电子购买将借记与预期购买者相关联的账户记入借方·Initiate an electronic purchase transaction to debit the account associated with the intended purchaser for the electronic purchase of a specific product
·当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力· Disable the ability to initiate an alarm when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag in close proximity to the EAS gate
·预期购买者的个人移动通信设备·Prospective purchaser’s personal mobile communication device
·对特定标签ID执行查找，以确定相关联的特定产品已被购买·Perform a lookup on a specific tag ID to determine that the associated specific product has been purchased
·更新数据结构以包括当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时不发起警报的指令Updated data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alarm when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag in proximity to an EAS gate
·从数据结构移除特定产品可供购买的指示·Remove indication that a specific product is available for purchase from the data structure
·电子信用卡交易·Electronic credit card transactions
·在由设备检测到特定标签ID之后，从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID· Receiving the specific tag ID from the device operated by the intended purchaser upon detection of the specific tag ID by the device
·经由场所中的本地Wi-Fi连接从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID· Receive a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser via the local Wi-Fi connection in the venue
·经由广域网(WAN)连接从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID· Receive a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser via a wide area network (WAN) connection
·经由有线局域网(LAN)连接从由预期购买者操作的设备接收特定标签ID· Receive a specific tag ID from a device operated by the intended purchaser via a wired local area network (LAN) connection
·数据结构中的多个标签ID中的每个标签ID都不同于数据结构中的每个其他的标签IDEach of the multiple tag IDs in the data structure is different from every other tag ID in the data structure
·基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置Determine the tag position at the time of transmission based on transmissions received by at least one receiver
·确定与EAS门的标签接近度· Determine tag proximity to EAS gates
·场所中的自助服务机·Self-service kiosks in venues
·处理与多个场所相关联的数据·Processing data associated with multiple locations
·访问多个数据结构，所述多个数据结构中的每个数据结构与多个场所中的一个场所唯一地相关联Access a plurality of data structures, each of the plurality of data structures being uniquely associated with one of a plurality of locations
·用于向无线传输标签无线地发送功率的多个发射器·Multiple transmitters for wirelessly sending power to wireless transmission tags
·被配置成在由特定标签检测到EAS门时接收传输的至少一个接收器· At least one receiver configured to receive a transmission when an EAS gate is detected by a particular tag
·库存控制操作·Inventory control operations
·接收来自多个无线传输标签的传输·Receive transmissions from multiple wireless transmission tags
·用于配备有多个无线传输标签的多个产品的库存控制操作·For inventory control operations of multiple products equipped with multiple wireless transmission tags
·提供对先前所购买产品的商店内拾取的场所· Provide an in-store pickup location for previously purchased products
·访问商店外产品购买的购买交易记录·Access purchase transaction history for out-of-store product purchases
·至少一个所购买产品的标识以及与至少一个所购买产品相关联的购买者的购买者标识信息An identification of at least one purchased product and buyer identification information of a purchaser associated with at least one purchased product
·接收与对应于至少一个所购买产品的库存中的至少一个特定产品相关联的特定标签的唯一标签ID· Receiving a unique tag ID associated with a specific tag in the inventory corresponding to at least one purchased product
·将至少一个特定产品指派给与购买交易相关联的记录·Assign at least one specific product to the record associated with the purchase transaction
·从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知· Receive notification from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the venue
·基于从与购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收的信息，授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取Authorizing the pickup of at least one specific product based on information received from a mobile communications device associated with the purchaser
·在授权对至少一个特定产品的拾取之后，当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力Disabling the ability to initiate an alarm when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag in proximity to the EAS gate after authorizing the pickup of at least one specific product
·对唯一标签ID执行查找，以确定相关联的至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取·Perform a lookup on the unique tag ID to determine that at least one specific product associated is authorized for pickup
·更新数据结构以包括当至少一个接收器接收到来自接近于EAS门的特定标签的传输时不发起警报的指令Updated data structure to include instructions not to initiate an alarm when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag in proximity to an EAS gate
·从数据结构移除唯一标签ID和相关联的至少一个特定产品的产品ID，使得唯一标签ID和产品ID不再被计数为可供销售的场所库存的一部分Remove the unique tag ID and the associated product ID of at least one specific product from the data structure so that the unique tag ID and product ID are no longer counted as part of the venue inventory available for sale
·在场所处的拾取等待时间期间装有至少一个特定产品的包装的标识信息·Identification information for packages containing at least one specific product during the pick-up wait time at the location
·由移动通信设备可读的信息·Information readable by mobile communication devices
·来自移动通信设备的至少一个所购买产品正在场所处被拾取的通知包括装有至少一个特定产品的包装的标识信息Notification from the mobile communications device that at least one purchased product is being picked up at the venue includes identification information of a package containing at least one specific product
·机器可读的印刷码·Machine-readable printed code
·近场通信标签ID·Near field communication tag ID
·与包装相关联的无线传输的包装标签的包装标签ID，所述包装标签不与场所中的任何产品相关联·The package label ID of the wirelessly transmitted package label associated with the package that is not associated with any product in the premises
·包括至少一个特定产品被授权进行拾取的时间段的信息的购买交易记录·Purchase transaction records that include information on at least one time period during which a specific product was authorized for pickup
·在接收到至少一个所购买产品正在被拾取的通知时，检查通知是否是在一定时间段内被接收到的· Upon receiving a notification that at least one purchased product is being picked up, check whether the notification was received within a certain time period
·如果通知是在一定时间段内接收到的，则授权拾取· Authorize pickup if the notification is received within a certain time period
·如果通知是在一定时间段之外接收到的，则拒绝拾取·Refuse to pick up if the notification is received outside a certain time period
·指示与购买者相关联的移动通信设备位于场所内的位置标识信息·Location identification information indicating that the mobile communications device associated with the purchaser is located within the premises
·向与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备发送通知· Send notifications to mobile communications devices associated with previous purchasers
·用于向无线传输标签无线地发送功率的多个发射器·Multiple transmitters for wirelessly sending power to wireless transmission tags
·被配置成在由特定标签检测到EAS门时接收传输的至少一个接收器· At least one receiver configured to receive a transmission when an EAS gate is detected by a specific tag
·被配置成在感测到EAS门时立即进行传输的无线传输标签· Wireless transmitting tags configured to transmit immediately upon sensing an EAS door
·被配置成在感测到EAS门时传输指示与EAS门的接近度的ID传输的无线传输标签· A wireless transmission tag configured to transmit an ID transmission indicating proximity to the EAS door when the EAS door is sensed
·基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置，由此确定与EAS门的标签接近度· Determine the tag position at the time of transmission based on the transmission received by at least one receiver, thereby determining the tag proximity to the EAS gate
·用于启用对与无线传输标签相关联的产品的商店内拾取的操作· Used to enable in-store pickup of products associated with wireless transmission tags
·接收来自至少一个无线传输标签的传输·Receive transmissions from at least one wireless transmitting tag
·用于防止对退回货物的盗窃的电子安全系统· Electronic security system to prevent theft of returned goods
·在场所中的至少一个电子物品监视(EAS)门·At least one Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) door in the premises
·被配置成接收来自无线传输标签的传输的至少一个接收器·At least one receiver configured to receive transmissions from the wireless transmitting tag
·从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知· Receive notification of intent to return previously purchased products to the venue from the mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser
·在接收到通知之后，在数据结构中识别与先前所购买产品相关联的特定无线传输标签的唯一标签ID· Upon receipt of the notification, identify in the data structure the unique tag ID of the specific wireless transmission tag associated with the previously purchased product
·更新数据结构以指示先前所购买产品被退回到场所· Update data structure to indicate previously purchased product being returned to the venue
·在更新数据结构时，当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，启用发起警报的能力· When updating the data structure, enable the ability to initiate an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product close to the EAS gate
·数据结构，所述数据结构被配置成在接收到通知之前保持以下指示：当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，禁用发起警报的能力· A data structure configured to maintain an indication prior to receipt of a notification that disable initiation of an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to the EAS gate Ability
·当至少一个接收器接收到来自与接近于EAS门的先前所购买产品相关联的特定标签的传输时，更新数据结构以准许发起警报· Update the data structure to permit initiation of an alert when at least one receiver receives a transmission from a specific tag associated with a previously purchased product in proximity to the EAS gate
·在场所中的至少第二接收器，所述第二接收器被配置成接收来自与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备的无线传输· At least a second receiver in the venue configured to receive wireless transmissions from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser
·通过蜂窝网络从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收传输· Receive transmissions over a cellular network from a mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser
·在包含购买交易记录的数据结构中执行查找·Perform a lookup in the data structure containing purchase transaction records
·在接收到意图退回先前所购买产品的通知时，验证由特定标签的唯一标签ID标识的特定产品是由与移动通信设备相关联的先前购买者购买的· Upon receipt of notification of intent to return a previously purchased product, verify that the specific product identified by the specific tag's unique tag ID was purchased by the previous purchaser associated with the mobile communications device
·当先前所购买产品被验证为已被先前购买者购买时，更新数据结构·Update the data structure when a previously purchased product is verified as having been purchased by a previous purchaser
·如果先前所购买产品未被验证为已被先前购买者购买，则避免更新数据结构Avoid updating the data structure if the previously purchased product has not been verified as having been purchased by the previous purchaser
·从先前购买者的移动通信设备接收唯一标签ID· Receive unique tag ID from previous purchaser's mobile communication device
·接收被退回的先前所购买产品被另一个购买者重新购买的指示·Receive instructions for returning previously purchased product to be repurchased by another purchaser
·一旦接收到指示，则在检测到特定标签时禁用发起警报的能力· Once indicated, disables the ability to initiate an alert when a specific tag is detected
·发起退款交易·Initiate a refund transaction
·延迟退款给先前购买者，直到场所处的员工已查验了被退回的先前所购买产品并认为先前所购买产品有资格退回Delaying refunds to previous purchasers until location staff have inspected the returned previously purchased product and deemed the previously purchased product eligible for return
·被配置成接收反映EAS门的感测的标签信号的至少一个接收器· At least one receiver configured to receive a sensed tag signal reflecting the EAS gate
·被配置成在感测到EAS门时立即进行传输的特定标签·Specific tags configured to transmit as soon as an EAS gate is sensed
·被配置成在感测到EAS门时传输指示特定标签接近于EAS门的ID传输的特定标签Configured to transmit a specific tag when an EAS gate is sensed indicating that the specific tag is close to the EAS gate ID transmission
·基于由至少一个接收器接收到的传输来确定传输时的标签位置，由此确定与EAS门的标签接近度· Determine the tag position at the time of transmission based on the transmission received by at least one receiver, thereby determining the tag proximity to the EAS gate
·向移动通信设备发送指示先前所购买产品的退回过程完成的通知·Sending notifications to mobile communication devices indicating completion of the return process for previously purchased products
·包括先前所购买产品被授权退回的时间段的信息的数据结构·A data structure that includes information about the time period during which previously purchased products are authorized to be returned
·在接收到意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知时，检查通知是否是在先前所购买产品被授权退回的时间段内被接收到的·When receiving a notification of intent to return a previously purchased product to the venue, check that the notification was received within the time period in which the previously purchased product was authorized to be returned
·如果通知是在一定时间段内被接收到的，则授权将先前所购买产品退回到场所· Authorization to return previously purchased products to the venue if notification is received within a certain time period
·如果通知是在一定时间段之外被接收到的，则拒绝将先前所购买产品退回到场所·Refuse to return previously purchased products to the venue if notification is received outside of a certain time period
·接收位置标识信息·Receive location identification information
·基于位置标识信息来确定与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备位于场所内· Determining that the mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser is located within the venue based on the location identification information
·防止对带无线标签的退回物品的盗窃·Prevent theft of returned items with wireless tags
·接收来自无线传输标签的传输·Receive transmissions from wireless transmission tags
·从与先前购买者相关联的移动通信设备接收意图将先前所购买产品退回到场所的通知· Receive notification of intent to return previously purchased products to the venue from the mobile communications device associated with the previous purchaser
·用于进行无线交易通信的系统·System for wireless transaction communication
·多个展示区域的标识·Identification of multiple display areas
·与多个展示区域相关联的多个产品的标识·Identification of multiple products associated with multiple display areas
·从移动通信设备接收·Receive from mobile communication device
·对与移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域有关的信息的请求·Requests for information related to a specific display area in the vicinity of a mobile communications device
·接收与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息·Receive location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device
·响应于位置信息，在至少一个数据结构中执行查找·Perform a lookup in at least one data structure in response to the location information
·识别移动通信设备附近的特定展示区域·Identify specific display areas near mobile communication devices
·基于对特定展示区域的识别，从至少一个数据结构中检索·Retrieval from at least one data structure based on identification of a specific display area
·与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息·Product-related information for products associated with a specific display area
·将产品相关信息传输到移动通信设备·Transmit product-related information to mobile communication devices
·对与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个特定产品的选择· Selection of at least one specific product associated with a specific display area
·发起与选择相关联的活动·Initiate activities associated with selections
·结合购买交易，传输用于产品递送的选项·Transmit options for product delivery in conjunction with purchase transactions
·在特定展示区域附近的位置处拾取至少一个特定产品·Pick up at least one specific product at a location near a specific display area
·在除特定展示区域附近的位置以外的位置拾取至少一个特定产品·Pick up at least one specific product at a location other than a location near a specific display area
·将至少一个特定产品递送到指定地址· Deliver at least one specific product to a specified address
·选择包括对附加信息的请求· Option to include a request for additional information
·活动包括将附加信息传输到移动通信设备· Activities include transmitting additional information to mobile communication devices
·与移动通信设备的地点相关联的位置信息包括与移动通信设备相关联的GPS位置、GLONASS位置、伽利略位置或其他全球导航和定位系统位置信息中的至少一个The location information associated with the location of the mobile communications device includes at least one of a GPS location, a GLONASS location, a Galileo location, or other global navigation and positioning system location information associated with the mobile communications device
·对与特定展示区域有关的信息的请求包括输入到移动通信设备中的位置ID· A request for information related to a specific display area includes a location ID entered into the mobile communications device
·位置ID来源于对与特定展示区域相关联的图形码或近场通信(NFC)标签的扫描Location ID is derived from a scan of a graphic code or near field communication (NFC) tag associated with a specific display area
·特定展示区域包括窗口展示·Specific display areas include window displays
·与特定展示区域相关联的产品的产品相关信息包括与特定展示区域相关联的至少一些产品的标识Product-related information for products associated with a particular display area includes identification of at least some of the products associated with the particular display area
·购买请求包括将与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个特定产品装运到经由移动通信设备指定的位置的请求· The purchase request includes a request to ship at least one specific product associated with a specific display area to a location specified via the mobile communications device
·传输产品相关信息包括传输信号以致使移动通信设备在图形用户界面上显示产品相关信息·Transmitting product-related information includes transmitting signals to cause the mobile communication device to display product-related information on a graphical user interface
·图形用户界面被配置成以文本格式或图形格式中的至少一个显示产品相关信息·The graphical user interface is configured to display product-related information in at least one of a textual format or a graphical format
·传输信号以致使移动通信设备输出产品相关信息作为可听信息以供经由移动通信设备呈现·Transmitting signals to cause the mobile communications device to output product-related information as audible information for presentation via the mobile communications device
·与特定展示区域相关联的至少一个接收器·At least one receiver associated with a specific display area
·被配置成从移动通信设备接收无线信号的接收器· A receiver configured to receive wireless signals from a mobile communications device
·用于读取场所中的无线传输标签的系统·System for reading wirelessly transmitted tags in premises
·多个带无线标签的产品·Multiple products with wireless tags
·自动生成产品分布陈列图·Automatically generate product distribution display charts
·从场所中的多个接收器接收无线信号·Receive wireless signals from multiple receivers in the venue
·来自多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号·Wireless signals from multiple products with wireless tags
·无线信号包括与多个带无线标签的产品中的每一个带无线标签的产品相关联的IDThe wireless signal includes an ID associated with each of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products.
·将每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID与分类信息相关联的数据结构·A data structure that associates each ID of each wirelessly tagged product with classification information
·访问数据结构·Access data structures
·从无线信号确定场所中的位置·Determine location in a venue from wireless signals
·在数据结构中对每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID执行查找·Perform a lookup in the data structure for each ID of each wirelessly tagged product
·确定与带无线标签的产品中的每个带无线标签的产品相关联的产品分类信息· Determine product classification information associated with each of the wirelessly tagged products
·使用每个带无线标签的产品的所确定的位置和所确定的产品分类信息来生成针对场所的陈列图· Generate venue-specific planograms using the determined location and determined product classification information for each wirelessly tagged product
·分类信息包括产品型号码·Classification information includes product type number
·陈列图在地图上指示共享产品型号码的至少一个产品组的位置·The planogram indicates on a map the location of at least one product group that shares a product type number
·陈列图指示多组带无线标签的产品的位置·Planogram indicating the location of multiple groups of products with wireless tags
·分类信息对于每个带无线标签的产品包括相关联的产品族指示符·Classification information includes an associated product family indicator for each wirelessly tagged product
·陈列图通过产品族来划分场所的地图·Pathmap A map that divides the place by product family
·数据结构包含将每个产品型号码与产品族相关联的信息·The data structure contains information that associates each product type number with a product family
·从与每个无线标签相关联的每个确定的型号码来查明相关联的产品族·Ascertain the associated product family from each specific model number associated with each wireless tag
·对于共享产品分类信息的至少一个产品组指示·Indication of at least one product group that shares product classification information
·最近一组中的产品被聚类的至少两个位置·At least two positions where products in the most recent group were clustered
·在陈列图上标识至少两个位置·Identify at least two locations on the plan diagram
·随时间跟踪陈列图·Track plan charts over time
·跟踪陈列图包括：将至少一个产品组的常用位置与常用位置历史进行比较Tracking planograms includes: comparing common locations for at least one product group to a history of common locations
·确定当前常用位置是否偏离常用位置历史·Determine whether the current frequently used location deviates from the history of frequently used locations
·如果偏离度大于预定义阈值，则更新陈列图以指示新的常用位置·If the deviation is greater than a predefined threshold, update the chart to indicate the new frequently used location
·更新陈列图进一步包括发送陈列图被更新的警告·Updating the planogram further includes sending a warning that the planogram has been updated
·适配预定义阈值·Adapt to predefined thresholds
·基于以下各项中的至少一项的预定义阈值：场所的类型、场所的所有者、场所中的陈列图更新的历史、场所中的产品的分类信息、或用户输入· Predefined thresholds based on at least one of the following: the type of venue, the owner of the venue, the history of planogram updates in the venue, classification information of the products in the venue, or user input
·基于所接收的无线信号的振幅、相位、到达角或到达时间中的至少一项来确定位置Determine location based on at least one of amplitude, phase, angle of arrival, or time of arrival of a received wireless signal
·场所的地图包括被指定用于储存的区域和被指定用于展示的区域·Map of the site including areas designated for storage and areas designated for display
·在陈列图中对于共享分类信息的每组产品包括储存区域中的至少一个常用位置以及展示区域中的至少一个常用位置·In the planogram, each group of products that share classification information includes at least one common location in the storage area and at least one common location in the display area.
·通过通信接口接收标识特定产品在场所中的位置的请求·Receive requests through the communication interface to identify the location of specific products in the premises
·标识特定产品的位置的请求包括请求者的标识信息，所述标识信息指示请求者是否是被授权的场所员工成员Requests to identify the location of a specific product include identification information of the requester indicating whether the requester is an authorized member of the site staff
·当请求来源于不是被授权的场所员工成员的实体时·When the request originates from an entity that is not an authorized member of the site staff
·将位于储存区域中的产品从对应的响应中排除·Exclude products located in the storage area from the corresponding response
·包含指令的非暂时性计算机可读介质·Non-transitory computer-readable media containing instructions
·执行用于基于从无线标签收集的信息生成陈列图的操作·Perform operations for generating a planogram based on information collected from wireless tags
·用于基于从无线标签收集的信息生成陈列图的方法·Method for generating planograms based on information collected from wireless tags
·场所·place
·场所中的无线货品标签·Wireless item tags in venues
·多个带无线标签的产品·Multiple products with wireless tags
·补货警告·Restock warning
·从场所中的多个接收器接收·Receive from multiple receivers in the venue
·来自多个带无线标签的产品的无线信号·Wireless signals from multiple products with wireless tags
·反映ID的无线信号·Wireless signal reflecting ID
·与多个带无线标签的产品中的每一个带无线标签的产品相关联的ID· An ID associated with each of the plurality of wirelessly tagged products
·与具有多个产品型号中的一个产品型号的每个带无线标签的产品的每个id相关联的数据结构A data structure associated with each ID of each wireless-tagged product with one of multiple product models
·访问与每个带无线标签的产品的每个ID相关联的至少一个数据结构Access at least one data structure associated with each ID of each wirelessly tagged product
·在数据结构中对产品型号执行查找·Perform a search for the product model in the data structure
·在场所中检测到的产品型号·Product models detected in the premises
·基于查找来确定每个产品型号的总单位数量· Determine total unit quantity for each product model based on lookup
·与每个产品型号相关联的目标单位阈值·Target unit thresholds associated with each product model
·在至少一个数据结构中访问目标单位阈值·Access target unit threshold in at least one data structure
·将每个产品的所确定的总单位数量与目标阈值进行比较·Compare the determined total unit quantity for each product to the target threshold
·产品型号下降到低于相关联的阈值· Product model drops below the associated threshold
·输出补货通知·Output replenishment notification
·多个产品型号与SKU相关联·Multiple product models are associated with SKUs
·场所中的每个产品型号的所确定的总单位数量是估计值·The total unit quantity determined for each product model at the site is an estimate
·阈值是数字或数字范围中的至少一个·The threshold is a number or at least one of a range of numbers
·至少一个数据结构存储多个补货规则·At least one data structure stores multiple replenishment rules
·响应于补货通知，至少一个处理器被配置成从多个补货规则中访问相关联的补货规则· In response to the replenishment notification, at least one processor is configured to access the associated replenishment rule from the plurality of replenishment rules
·提交用于对特定产品进行再进货的订单·Submit an order for restocking of a specific product
·至少一个处理器被配置成访问补货规则，以防止对于特定产品的再进货订单提交·At least one processor is configured to access replenishment rules to prevent restocking orders from being submitted for specific products
·至少一个处理器被配置成访问补货规则，以延迟提交用于对特定产品进行再进货的订单·At least one processor is configured to access replenishment rules to delay submission of orders for restocking specific products
·基于再进货订单中的特定产品中的至少一个来延迟提交用于对特定产品进行再进货的订单Delay in submitting orders for restocking of specific products based on at least one of the specific products in the restock order
·在最近时间段内提交的多个其他再进货订单·Multiple other restocking orders submitted within the most recent time period
·在最近时间段内提交了其他再进货订单的特定产品·Specific products for which other restocking orders have been submitted within the most recent time period
·再进货订单中的特定产品的销售历史·Sales history of specific products in restock orders
·在最近时间段内提交了其他再进货订单的特定产品的销售历史· Sales history for specific products that have had other restock orders submitted within the most recent time period
·提交再进货订单的时间·Time to submit restocking order
·带无线标签的产品的标签没有电池· Products with wireless tags have no battery in the tag
·带无线标签的产品的标签由电容器供能· Products with wireless tags have tags powered by capacitors
·包括至少一个发射器，所述至少一个发射器用于为带无线标签的产品的标签无线供能Include at least one transmitter for wirelessly powering tags of wirelessly tagged products
·包含指令的非暂时性计算机可读介质·Non-transitory computer-readable media containing instructions
·执行自动生成补货警告的操作·Perform operations that automatically generate replenishment alerts
·用于基于来自多个带无线标签的产品的信号自动生成补货警告的方法·Method for automatically generating replenishment alerts based on signals from multiple wirelessly tagged products
本文公开的系统和方法涉及对常规方法的非常规改进。所公开的实施方案的描述不是穷尽的，并且不限于所公开的精确形式或实施方案。通过考虑说明书和所公开的实施方案的实践，对实施方案的修改和改编将是显而易见的。另外地，所公开的实施方案不限于本文讨论的例子。The systems and methods disclosed herein involve unconventional improvements to conventional methods. The description of the disclosed embodiments is not exhaustive and is not limited to the precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the disclosed embodiments will become apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the examples discussed herein.
前面的描述是为了说明的目的而给出的。它不是穷尽的，并且不限于所公开的精确形式或实施方案。通过考虑说明书和所公开的实施方案的实践，对实施方案的修改和改编将是显而易见的。例如，所描述的实现包括硬件和软件，但是根据本公开文本的系统和方法可以单独作为硬件来实现。The preceding description is given for illustrative purposes. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to the precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the disclosed embodiments will become apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the described implementations include hardware and software, but systems and methods according to the present disclosure may be implemented as hardware alone.
根据详细的说明书，本公开文本的特征和优点是显而易见的，因此，所附权利要求旨在覆盖落入本公开文本的真实精神和范围内的所有系统和方法。如本文所使用的，不定冠词“一(a)”和“一个(an)”是指“一个或多个”。类似地，除非在给定的上下文中是明确的，否则复数术语的使用不一定表示复数。诸如“和”或“或”之类的词表示“和/或”，除非另有特别说明。此外，由于通过研究本公开文本可以容易地进行许多修改和变化，因此不希望将本公开文本限制于所展示和描述的确切构造和操作，因此，可以采用落入本公开文本范围内的所有合适的修改和等同物。The features and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the detailed description, and therefore, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all systems and methods falling within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. As used herein, the indefinite articles "a" and "an" mean "one or more." Similarly, use of a plural term does not necessarily mean the plural unless clear in the given context. Words such as "and" or "or" mean "and/or" unless specifically stated otherwise. Furthermore, since many modifications and changes may readily be made by studying this disclosure, it is not intended to limit this disclosure to the exact construction and operation shown and described and, therefore, all suitable modifications and variations falling within the scope of this disclosure may be employed. Modifications and equivalents of.
基于本说明书的书面描述和方法的计算机程序在软件开发者的技能范围内。可以使用各种编程技术来创建各种函数、脚本、程序或模块。例如，程序、脚本、函数、程序段或程序模块可以用包括JAVASCRIPT、C、C++、JAVA、PHP、PYTHON、RUBY、PERL、BASH或其他编程或脚本语言在内的语言来设计或借助于这些语言来设计。一个或多个这样的软件区块或模块可以集成到计算机系统、非暂时性计算机可读介质或现有通信软件中。程序、模块或码也可以作为固件或电路逻辑来实现或复制。A computer program based on the written description and methods of this specification is within the skill of the software developer. Various programming techniques can be used to create various functions, scripts, programs, or modules. For example, programs, scripts, functions, program segments or program modules may be designed in or with the aid of languages including JAVASCRIPT, C, C++, JAVA, PHP, PYTHON, RUBY, PERL, BASH or other programming or scripting languages. to design. One or more such software blocks or modules may be integrated into a computer system, non-transitory computer-readable media, or existing communications software. A program, module or code may also be implemented or reproduced as firmware or circuit logic.
此外，虽然本文已经描述了说明性实施方案，但是范围可以包括基于本公开文本的具有等同元素、修改、省略、组合(例如，各种实施方案的各方面的组合)、改编或变更的任何和所有实施方案。权利要求中的元素将基于权利要求中使用的语言被广义地解释，并且不限于本说明书中描述的或者在申请过程中描述的例子，这些例子将被解释为非排他性的。此外，所公开的方法的步骤可以以任何方式修改，包括通过重新排序步骤或插入或删除步骤。因此，说明书和例子仅被认为是示例性的，真正的范围和精神由所附权利要求及其等同物的全部范围来表示。Furthermore, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope may include any and all equivalents, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., combinations of aspects of various embodiments), adaptations, or alterations based on the present disclosure. All embodiments. Elements in the claims are to be construed broadly based on the language used in the claims, and are not limited to the examples described in this specification or during the application process, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Furthermore, the steps of the disclosed methods may be modified in any way, including by reordering steps or inserting or deleting steps. It is therefore intended that the specification and examples be considered as illustrative only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the appended claims and their full scope of equivalents.
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| CN117745188B (en)* | 2024-02-20 | 2024-05-10 | 多点生活(成都)科技有限公司 | Article restocking method, apparatus, electronic device, and computer-readable medium |
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| US20210027608A1 (en) | Wireless dual-mode identification tag | |
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| WO2023111845A1 (en) | Systems, methods, and devices for contactless and automatic operation of retail stores |
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