Tag security systems and methods for articles of merchandise
US9298954B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 2011 |
| Grant date | Mar 29, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 4, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06K7/10128
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A tag security system has a plurality of hubs positioned within a store. A security tag is attached to an article of merchandise and tracked, via the hubs, to determine when the security tag is moved to a predefined area, such as close to a store exit. An alarm is provided when the security tag is determined to be within the predefined area. In addition to providing merchandise security, the security tag is used for other purposes, such as taking inventory and marketing analysis. As an example, during a store-wide inventory, the approximate location of the article of merchandise may be determined via wireless communication with the security tag. Also, the security tag may be used to sense when consumers are handling the article of merchandise thereby providing marketing information indicative of consumer interest in such article. Further, unlocking of the security tag from the article of merchandise may be automatically controlled based on a message confirming that the article has been purchased thereby frustrating attempts to defeat the security provided by the system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.