Self-checkout/self-check-in RFID and electronics article surveillance system
US6169483A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 4, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 2, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG08B13/2462
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A self-checkout/self-check-in and electronic article surveillance (EAS) system is provided. EAS tags and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are connected to articles for use with the invention. A preferred embodiment for self-checkout includes a housing having a cavity for receiving articles for self-checkout. The cavity is disposed within a deactivation zone. The RFID tags are read, and after verification of an authorized transaction, a deactivation antenna is energized to deactivate the EAS tags, and a stored inventory database is updated. Information about the transaction can be displayed. A preferred embodiment for self-check-in includes an elongated housing into which articles are deposited for return. Once deposited, the articles pass through the housing and out the other end. As the articles are deposited, the RFID tags on the articles are read, the inventory database is updated, and an activation antenna is energized to form an activation zone through which the articles pass as they fall through the housing, thus activating the attached EAS tags. The magnetic fields used for activation and deactivation are magnetic media safe for use with articles containing magneti…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.