A method for detecting variable weight price items in a detector-based inventory management and / or shopping system.

Abstract

Described herein are methods and systems for detecting variable weight price item activity in a detector-based inventory control and shopping system in a sales and / or storage area. The methods described herein involve using a multi-detector system having one or more digital triggers that can be read / detected to obtain a unique digital ID for the item. In some embodiments, the digital trigger is an RFID inlay, and the detector-based system is a vision- or camera-based workout shopping system for detecting variable weight price items. In some embodiments, the vision- and camera-based workout shopping system is located in a grocery store, and the variable weight price items are selected from meats, cheeses, seafood, fruits and vegetables, deli items, salad bar items, bulk items (e.g., nuts, coffee beans, grains, etc.), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the sensors provide item-level unique individual identification of the variable weight price items, enhancing data fusion used to monitor these products through current ecosystems.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 104,645, filed Oct. 23, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] This disclosure is in the field of methods for detecting variable weight - price items in a detector - based inventory management and / or shopping system.

Background Art

[0003] Cashier - less retail stores date back to the late 1800s. These systems have evolved from vending machines to full - service retail stores that track customers via vision - based systems and monitor them with artificial intelligence and machine learning.

[0004] Vision - based systems are adept at identifying which types of products are within the system's field of vision and tracking customers through space. However, these systems have limitations in identifying specific or unique items, particularly when items are stacked closely vertically in local areas such as sales and / or storage areas.

[0005] Many retail items are uniquely designed to avoid cameras or other vision - based systems. Examples of such items include, but are not limited to, perishable variable weight - price products such as proteins (e.g., meat, seafood, etc.), fruits, vegetables, bakery products, pre - made meals, deli products, drinking water, dairy products, and non - food items that are variable weight - price items.

[0006] There is a need for methods and systems for detecting local activity of one or more variable weight - price items or perishable items in a detector - based system.

[0007] Shopping detection methods and systems need to be able to identify or detect specific products for inventory and asset management, as well as identify which products (etc.) are selected and removed from shelves, coolers, tables, display stands, or other retail containers or fixtures.

[0008] This section describes methods and systems for detecting items that cannot be detected by sensor-based systems alone, such as camera or vision-based systems. Additionally, the methods and systems described here enhance and deepen the data by providing supplemental data to the activities that the sensor-based system can monitor, which was not previously possible. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] This section describes a method for detecting variable weight price items in a detector-based inventory management and / or shopping system. In some embodiments, the detector-based inventory management and / or shopping system is a camera or vision-based cashier-less or checkout-free shopping system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In some embodiments, item-level sensors such as RFID tags are employed in detector-based inventory management and / or shopping systems to detect variable weight-price items or perishable items. In some embodiments, the detector-based system is a camera or vision-based cashier or checkout-free shopping system located in a grocery store, and variable weight-price items are selected from meat, cheese, seafood, fruits and vegetables, deli items, salad bar items, bulk items (e.g., nuts, coffee beans, grains, etc.) and combinations thereof. These items may be collected by grocery store staff or customers. In some embodiments, containers are filled by consumer selection and weighed by a weighing device, and their weight is encoded or written to an item-level sensor. In other embodiments, the weight can be recorded or stored in a local device or the cloud and accessed when the customer checks out. In some embodiments, the addition of RFID technology can improve data fusion used to monitor these products by the ecosystem currently in use, by providing item-level unique individual identification of variable weight-price items. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] In addition to food products, the methods described herein can be applied to a wide variety of consumer goods, including, but are not limited to, clothing, footwear, wine and spirits, household electrical appliances, vehicles (passenger cars, trucks, personal watercraft), sporting goods, and personal care products. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of an RFID inlay suitable for use with plastic packaging containers, and is a photograph of a plastic container holding strawberries with a label containing the inlay shown in Figure 1.

[0013] [Figure 2]Schematic diagram of a low profile RFID inlay suitable for use with difficult-to-read materials. Figure 2A is a photograph of a cheese block with a label containing the inlay of Figure 2.

[0014] [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of a low profile RFID inlay suitable for use with difficult-to-read materials.

[0015] [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of a microwave oven RFID inlay. Figure 4A is a photograph of a steak packaging container including a foam tray and plastic wrap to which a label containing the inlay of Figure 4 is attached.

[0016] [Figure 5] Depiction of a phased array antenna grid that provides controllable read zone segments by circulating signals that cross in phase.

[0017] [Figure 6] Depiction of a number of smart shelves connected to a central control device via a USB cable.

[0018] [Figure 7] Depiction of a number of smart shelves that define read zone #1.

[0019] [Figure 8] Depiction of read zone #2.

[0020] [Figure 9] Depiction showing how RFID tag products A, B, and C are arranged on the smart shelves that define read zone #1.

[0021] [Figure 10] Depiction showing how RFID tag products A, B, and C are arranged on the smart shelves and detected by read zone #2.

[0022] [Figure 11] This is a depiction of numerous smart shelves that define reading area #1.

[0023] [Figure 12] This is a description of reading area #2.

[0024] [Figure 13] This is a depiction of numerous antennas that form reading area #1 and reading area #2 on both sides of the product container / cooler.

[0025] [Figure 14] This describes multiple data paths from multiple sources. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] I. Definition As used herein, “detector-based inventory management and / or shopping systems” means systems that include one or more detectors capable of confirming the presence of products in a given area, detecting the movement of products within or between areas at sales and / or storage locations, and / or providing a cashier-less or checkout-free shopping experience. Non-limiting examples of detectors include detectors that include cameras or other visual-based devices, detectors that include radio frequency sources such as RFID readers, and / or detectors that include visual or non-visual light sources.

[0027] As used herein, “visual or camera-based no-checkout or no-cash-handler shopping system” means a system that does not require a cashier or checkout location for consumers to check out, using visual or camera-based hardware and software that can, for example, detect the movement of an object from a retailer’s shelf and optionally place that object in a cart or basket.

[0028] The term "digital trigger" as used herein refers to any type of sensor that can be detected / read by a source. The source may be electromagnetic energy, such as radio frequencies, infrared frequencies, and visual and non-visual light frequencies. Examples, but not limited to, include RFID (e.g., UHF, HF), NFC, QR codes, barcodes, cameras, and other visual-based devices, and combinations thereof.

[0029] In this context, "sales area" typically refers to the retail location where products are positioned and arranged for sale / purchase.

[0030] The term "storage area" used here typically refers to the retail location where products are stored, such as a warehouse or storage facility.

[0031] The terms "sales area" and "storage area" used here can be referred to collectively or individually as "local areas."

[0032] II. Variable weight-price solutions This section describes how to detect variable weight-price items in a detector-based, for example, a visual or camera-based walk-out shopping system. In some embodiments, variable weight-price items are food products such as cheese, deli meats, protein, agricultural products, and bulk-sold food items. In some embodiments, variable weight items are non-food products such as bulk-sold items. In some embodiments, non-food products that are currently packaged and sold together in a finite number of items in a packaging container may be sold separately as bulk items.

[0033] In some embodiments, systems and methods for detecting the activity of one or more variable weight price items or perishable items using a multiplex detector system are described herein. In some embodiments, the systems and methods include or involve attaching one or more tags containing one or more digital IDs to variable weight price or perishable items in a sales and / or storage area, and detecting the tagged variable weight price items via a digital trigger. In some embodiments, the digital trigger is a tag or label or part thereof attached to or adhered to the product. In some embodiments, the digital trigger is a trigger that can be detected or read by radio frequencies, including but not limited to RFID (HF, UHF) and NFC. Other digital triggers include, but not limited to, QR codes and barcodes. In other embodiments, the inlay tagged to the item to detect the item's activity is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tag.

[0034] In some embodiments, a unique digital ID associated with a product is encoded in a digital trigger. Examples of digital IDs, but not limited to, include electronic product codes, serial numbers, expiration dates, sales deadlines, packaging dates, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the digital ID used and encoded within or on a digital trigger may be configured as a machine-readable code and may be associated with metadata. In some embodiments, one or more digital IDs may be associated with an image captured by a visual or camera-based system. In some embodiments, the digital trigger is an RFID inlay with a digital ID encoded inside. In other embodiments, the digital trigger is a trigger other than an RFID inlay or a trigger combined with an RFID inlay.

[0035] In some embodiments, one or more detectors in a multiplex detector system include a camera or other visual-based device. In some embodiments, RFID technology is employed in the visual or camera-based workout shopping system to detect variable weight price items. In some embodiments, the visual or camera-based workout shopping system is placed in a grocery store, and the variable weight items are selected from meat, cheese, seafood, fruits and vegetables, prescription food items, salad bar items, bulk items (e.g., nuts, coffee beans, grains, etc.) and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, these items can be collected by a grocery store employee or a customer. In some embodiments, containers can be filled by consumer selection, weighed, and recorded by other containers transmitting data within their containers. In some embodiments, the camera or visual-based detector may be a handheld device such as a mobile device (smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, etc.). In other embodiments, the camera or visual-based device is permanently mounted in a retail store location, for example, above a sales position, at the sales position, or in close proximity to the sales position.

[0036] In some embodiments, the addition of RFID technology can improve data fusion, which is currently used by existing ecosystems to monitor these products, by providing item-level unique individual identification for variable weight pricing items.

[0037] The methods and systems described herein can detect activity on tagged variable weight-price items in sales and / or storage areas. In some embodiments, the activity involves inventory management or sales of one or more weight-price items or perishable items. In other embodiments, the activity may involve adding or removing one or more items from a local area.

[0038] A. Sensor / Inlay The sensor may be any technically known sensor suitable for the methods and applications described herein. In some embodiments, the sensor is an item-level sensor such as, for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID such as UHF or HF) sensor, a near-field communication (NFC) sensor, a quick-response (QR) code, a machine-readable code, a vision system, a Bluetooth slow energy (BLE) beacon, or other digital identification (ID) system, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the item-level sensor is a UHF Gen2 RFID or a similar standard. Other standards determined by various standards-setting bodies may also be used. This standard may be an item / product specification or a sector or market specification.

[0039] 1. RFID Radio frequency item level sensors (RFID tags), also known as RFID tags, are wireless devices with varying memory capacities, typically 96-128 bit EPC memory space, 48-96 bit TID memory space, and selective features such as user memory as described in GS1. These sensors possess a unique ID, respond to RF energy, and transmit the presence of the specific item to which they are attached. Several factors influence the range and readability of RFID item level sensors and antennas (inlays), including size, power, and frequency. Materials with high moisture content and metal packaging can affect the power response and detune the frequency response. Packaging size, human-readable data requirements, and sales must also be considered in placement and sensor selection.

[0040] A variety of RFID item-level sensor designs and less common materials can be used to optimize performance against the standard. To evaluate the most effective inlay, RFID item-level sensors can be tested on cheese, packaged fruit, and meat products to determine the appropriate sensor. In some embodiments, a variety of different sensors are used depending on the tagged item and / or the packaging used with that item.

[0041] A typical RFID device generally includes an antenna for wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving RF signals and analog and / or digital electronic equipment operably coupled to this antenna. It may include so-called active or semi-passive elements, a battery, or other suitable power source. Typically, the electronic equipment consists of integrated circuits (ICs), microchips, or other suitable electronic circuits, and may include, for example, communication electronics, data memory, and control logic. During operation, the IC or microchip stores and / or processes information, modulates and / or demodulates RF signals, and, depending on the choice, performs other special functions. Generally, an RFID device can hold and exchange enough information to uniquely identify, for example, an individual, packaging, inventory, and / or other similar object to which the RFID device is attached.

[0042] Typically, an RFID reader or base station is used to wirelessly obtain data or information (e.g., identification codes) transmitted from an RFID device. Typically, an RFID device is configured to store, emit, or otherwise display identification codes or other identifiers. The manner in which an RFID reader interacts with and / or communicates with an RFID device generally depends on the type of RFID device. Given an RFID device, it is typically classified as a passive, active, semi-passive (also known as a battery-assisted or semi-active) or beacon-type RFID device (generally considered a subcategory of active devices). A passive RFID device generally does not use an internal power source and is therefore a passive device that functions only when an RFID reader is nearby and powers the RFID device, for example, through RF signals from the RFID reader and / or wireless illumination of the RFID device by electronic energy. Conversely, semi-passive and active RFID devices are provided with their own power source (e.g., a small battery). For communication, traditional RFID devices (other than so-called beacon-type devices) respond to queries or interrogations received from an RFID reader. This response is typically achieved through backscattering, load modulation, and / or other similar techniques used to manipulate the RFID reader field. Backscattering is generally used in far-field applications (i.e., when the distance between the RFID device and the reader is greater than approximately several wavelengths), and load modulation is used in near-field applications (i.e., when the distance between the RFID device and the reader is within approximately several wavelengths).

[0043] Passive RFID devices typically transmit or exchange data or information by backscattering a carrier wave from an RFID reader. In other words, in a conventional passive RFID device, the RFID reader typically transmits an excitation signal to the RFID device to retrieve information from its elements. The excitation signal activates the RFID device, causing it to retransmit the stored information back to the RFID reader. Ultimately, the RFID reader receives and decodes the information from the RFID device.

[0044] As mentioned earlier, passive RFID devices typically do not have an internal power supply. Rather, the power required for the operation of a passive RFID device is provided by the energy of the incoming RF signal received by the RFID device from the RFID reader. Generally, the small current induced in the RFID device's antenna by the incoming RF signal provides sufficient power for the RFID device's IC or microchip to drive and transmit the response. This means that the antenna must be designed to collect power from the incoming signal and transmit the derived backscatter signal.

[0045] Passive RFID devices have the advantages of simplicity and long lifespan (e.g., they do not have a battery that discharges). Nevertheless, their performance can be limited. For example, passive RFID devices generally have a more limited range compared to active RFID devices.

[0046] Active RFID devices, in contrast to passive RFID devices, generally include a self-receiver and a power source (e.g., battery, photocell). This active RFID device uses a self-driving transmitter to transmit signals for exchanging information stored in the IC or RFID device. Furthermore, an active RFID device will typically use a power source to drive the IC or microchip used within it.

[0047] Generally, there are two types of active RFID devices: one can be considered a transponder-type active RFID device, and the other a beacon-type active RFID device. The key difference is that transponder-type RFID devices are activated only when they receive a signal from an RFID reader. Transponder-type RFID devices respond to inquiry signals from RFID readers and transmit that information to the reader. As you can see, this type of active RFID device conserves battery life by having its elements transmit their signals only when they are within range of the reader. Conversely, beacon-type RFID devices spontaneously transmit identification codes and / or other data or information (e.g., at fixed intervals, periodically, or in other ways) and do not respond to specific interactions from the reader.

[0048] Generally, active RFID devices can transmit higher power levels (compared to, for example, passive elements) due to their onboard power supply, resulting in more robust power levels in a variety of operating environments. However, batteries or other onboard power supplies tend to make active RFID devices relatively larger and / or more expensive to manufacture (compared to, for example, passive elements). Additionally, compared to passive RFID devices, active RFID devices have a potentially more limited storage life due to the limited lifespan of batteries. Nevertheless, self-supporting power supplies can generally accommodate larger memory than those of passive elements, and in some cases, onboard power supplies allow active elements to have additional functionality, such as acquiring and / or storing environmental data from appropriate sensors.

[0049] Semipassive RFID devices are similar to active devices in that they are typically self-powered, but the battery usually only drives the IC or microchip and does not provide the power necessary for signal transmission. Rather, like passive RFID devices, the response from a semipassive RFID device is usually driven by backscattering the RF energy received from the RFID reader. That is, the RF energy is reflected back to the reader, just like in a passive device. In semipassive RFID devices, the battery also usually functions as a power source for data storage.

[0050] Conventional RFID devices will often operate within one of a variety of frequency ranges, including, for example, the low frequency (LF) range (i.e., approximately 30 kHz to 300 kHz), the high frequency (HF) range (i.e., approximately 3 MHz to 30 MHz), and the ultra-high frequency (UHF) range (e.g., approximately 300 MHz to 3 GHz). Passive elements will typically operate within one of the aforementioned frequency ranges. In particular, for passive elements, low frequency systems typically operate at approximately 124 kHz, 125 kHz, or 135 kHz, high frequency systems typically operate at approximately 13.56 MHz, and ultra-high frequency systems typically use any band between 860 MHz and 960 MHz. Some passive element systems also use 2.45 GHz and other radio spectrum regions. Active RFID devices typically operate at 455 MHz, 2.45 GHz, or 5.8 GHz. Semi-passive elements often use a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz.

[0051] The reading range of an RFID device (i.e., the range from which an RFID reader can communicate with the RFID device) is generally determined by many factors, such as the type of element (i.e., active, passive, etc.). In some embodiments, passive low-frequency RFID devices (also called LFID or LowFID elements) can typically be read within about 12 inches (0.33 meters), passive high-frequency RFID devices (also called HFID or HighFID elements) can typically be read within about 3 feet (1 meter), and passive ultra-high frequency RFID devices (also called UHFID) can typically be read from about 10 feet (3.05 meters) or more. However, these distances are examples, and the distance can vary depending on the characteristics described above (e.g., it can be longer or shorter). One important factor affecting the reading range of a passive RFID device is the method used to transmit data from the element to the reader, i.e., the coupling mode between the element and the reader, which can be inductive coupling or radiated / radio coupling. Passive LFID and passive HFID elements typically use inductive coupling between the element and the reader, while passive UHFID uses radiated or radio wave coupling between the element and the reader.

[0052] In inductive coupling applications (such as those used by passive LFID and HFID elements), the element reader is typically provided with a coil antenna that, together with the element, forms an electromagnetic field between them. In inductive coupling applications, power is drawn from the element's electromagnetic field and used to drive an electrical circuit on the element's IC or microchip, which then changes the electrical load on the device antenna. Conversely, the reader antenna senses the change in the electromagnetic field and converts this change into data that the reader or auxiliary computer can understand. Because the coils of the element antenna and the reader antenna must form an electromagnetic field between them to complete the inductive coupling between the element and the reader, the element often has to be quite close to the reader antenna, thus tending to limit the reading range of these systems.

[0053] Next, in radiation or radio coupling applications (for example, as conventionally passive UHFID elements are used), rather than forming an electromagnetic field between the reader and the element's respective antennas, the reader emits electron energy to illuminate the element. Ultimately, the element collects energy from the reader through its antenna, and the element's IC or microchip uses the collected energy to change the load on the element's antenna, causing the modified signal to be reflected, or backscattered, backward. Typically, UHFID elements can exchange data in a variety of different ways. For example, the amplitude of the reflected wave transmitted back to the UHFID element reader can be increased (i.e., amplitude shift keying), the phase of the reflected wave can be shifted from the received wave (i.e., phase shift keying), or the frequency of the reflected wave can be changed (i.e., frequency shift keying). In any case, the reader acquires the backscattered signal and converts the modified wave into data that the reader or auxiliary computer can understand.

[0054] Furthermore, the antennas used in RFID devices are typically influenced by many factors, such as the desired application, element type (i.e., active, passive, semi-active, etc.), desired reading range, element-reader coupling mode, and element operating frequency. For example, since passive LFID elements are normally inductively coupled to the reader, and the voltage induced by the element antenna is proportional to the element's operating frequency, passive LFID elements are typically provided with coil antennas that have a large number of turns to generate a voltage sufficient to operate the element's IC or microchip. In comparison, conventional HFID passive elements are often provided with planar helical antennas (e.g., 5-7 turns over a credit card-sized shape factor), which can typically provide a reading range of about several tens of centimeters. Generally, HFID antenna coils (compared to, for example, LFID antenna coils) are not very expensive to manufacture because these coils are manufactured using relatively less expensive techniques such as wire winding, or pattern transfer (lithography). UHFID passive elements are typically coupled radiatively and / or propagally to the leader antenna, and as a result, conventional dipole antennas can often be used.

[0055] a. Sensors for plastic packaging containers In some embodiments, one or more sensors are designed for a plastic packaging container. In some embodiments, the plastic packaging container is used to package cut fresh fruits and / or vegetables. Suitable sensors are available from Avery Dennison. In some embodiments, the sensor is the AD324 shown in Figures 1 and 1A. In some embodiments, the placement of the RFID sensor on the packaging container is done so that when the product inside the packaging container is stationary on a shelf, the product does not overlap the inlay area by more than 20%. In some embodiments, the RFID sensor may be a low-profile inlay to reduce the coverage area.

[0056] b. Low-profile sensor In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are low-profile, item-level sensors that are difficult to read from the material. In some embodiments, these sensors are used on packaged cheese. In some embodiments, the sensors are the AD163 and AD456 available from Avery Dennison (Figures 2, 2A, and 3). In some embodiments, the sensors can be mounted coplanar with a spacer or pinched along their entire length to form a low-profile flag tag. In some embodiments, the tag includes an interior structure that separates the dielectric properties of the product and the inlay. In some embodiments, a low-profile inlay size is used to reduce the coverage area.

[0057] c. Microwave inlay In some embodiments, the RFID sensor is a microwave sensor. Microwave sensors / inlays are described in WO2018 / 125977, WO2019 / 204694, WO / 2019 / 204698, WO / 2019 / 204704, W02020 / 006202, and W02020 / 006219 and U.S. Patent Applications 62 / 954,909 and 62 / 954,454, which are adopted by reference herein.

[0058] In some embodiments, a microwave RFID tag includes an antenna configured to operate at a first frequency while forming a gap. An RFID chip is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. A shielding structure covers the RFID chip and is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. The shielding structure includes a shielding conductor and a shielding dielectric, at least a portion of which is located between the shielding conductor and the RFID chip. The shielding structure is configured to limit the voltage applied across the gap when the antenna is exposed to a second frequency greater than the first frequency.

[0059] In some embodiments, the antenna is or includes an antenna having a sheet resistance in the range of approximately 100 ohms to approximately 230 ohms. In other embodiments, the RFID tag includes an RFID chip and an antenna electrically coupled to the RFID chip. The antenna is or includes a conductor formed from a substrate and a second material having different coefficients of thermal expansion, configured to cause the antenna to break into a number of pieces when heated.

[0060] In some embodiments, a microwave RFID tag includes a substrate having a first and second surface opposite to each other. An antenna is fixed to the first surface and defines a gap, and is configured to operate at a first frequency. An RFID chip is electrically coupled to the antenna across the gap. A shielding structure is fixed to the second surface of the substrate so that at least a portion of it is substantially aligned with the gap. The shielding structure is configured to limit the voltage applied across the gap when the antenna is exposed to a second frequency greater than the first frequency.

[0061] In some embodiments, the RFID tag antenna has a maximum size of approximately 40 mm. In some embodiments, the center of the shielding structure is substantially aligned with the RFID chip. In some embodiments, the shielding structure is larger than the gap. In some embodiments, the shielding structure is electrically coupled to the antenna via the substrate. In some embodiments, the RFID tag antenna and the shielding structure further include first and second conductive bridges extending through the substrate and associated with the antenna on both sides of the gap. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive bridges are substantially identical. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive bridges are substantially the same distance from the gap. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges is positioned closer to the corresponding edge of the shielding structure than to the gap. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes electrochemically formed vias. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes wrinkles. In some embodiments, each of the first and second conductive bridges includes conductive ink housed in respective holes defined in the substrate.

[0062] In some embodiments, RFID tag elements for microwave ovens can be attached to items that are placed in the microwave wavelength range, such as food products that are defrosted, heated, reheated, or cooked in a microwave oven. The RFID tag element includes at least one antenna designed to operate at one or more frequencies, and an RFID chip that has data about the product to which it is attached and / or the electromagnetic processing (e.g., cooking) performed by the microwave oven. In some embodiments, the antenna of the RFID tag element is designed to prevent destructive arcing when placed in the high level 2.45 GHz wavelength range, minimizing heating of the RFID tag itself during electromagnetic processing.

[0063] In other embodiments, an RFID reader system is coupled inside the microwave oven cavity so that RFID tag data can be read before a high level of 2.45 GHz wavelength is applied. This is because high-level wavelengths would destroy the RFID tag elements. The RFID reader system operates at 2.45 GHz and can share the range emitter, be located jointly with the range emitter, operate at a separate frequency such as UHF in the 900 MHz to 930 MHz range, or operate at both frequencies. The RFID reader system interacts with the range controller to apply and / or control the cooking process of tagged food items.

[0064] In some embodiments, a microwave RFID tag preferably includes a split ring (or shielding) conductor formed on one side of a dielectric, a coil antenna conductor formed on the opposite side of the dielectric, and an RFID chip. The split ring conductor is isolated from the coil antenna conductor by the dielectric. Also, since the split ring conductor covers most of the coil antenna conductor, the split ring conductor is capacitively coupled to the coil antenna conductor via the dielectric. Additionally, the split ring conductor includes a gap that allows microwave current to flow through the coil antenna conductor, but no portion of the coil antenna conductor within the gap interacts with the microwave current, thus preventing arc discharge.

[0065] In other embodiments, the RFID tag element for microwave ovens includes a second split ring conductor that rotates in the opposite direction to the first split ring conductor, so that the gaps of the first split ring conductors are not aligned with each other and current does not flow through the gaps. The coil antenna conductor is located between the first and second split ring conductors and is capacitively coupled to the conductors, thereby effectively short-circuiting the coil antenna conductor with the first and second split ring conductors to prevent arc discharge and prevent excessive current from flowing along the coil antenna conductor.

[0066] In other embodiments, the RFID inlay for microwave ovens includes a pair of dipole arms extending from a tuning loop, each of which terminates as a load end. Furthermore, this conductive structure is configured to have a metal mass smaller than the standard detection threshold of a metal detector used to scan food items and their packaging. Additionally, the conductive structure has an area large enough to perform the required or desired performance, but still smaller than the typical standard detection threshold associated with scanning food items or packaging metal objects such as metal spheres approximately 1 mm in diameter. This conductive structure can be manufactured by printing conductive ink or cutting metal foil. The overall thickness of the conductive structure is then reduced to approximately the depth of the skin calculated for the material and frequency of each conductive structure. The portions at each load end can be hollowed out to achieve a conductive structure with a mass smaller than the detection threshold of a metal detector, while removing areas of the conductive structure with minimal impact on the overall RFID performance.

[0067] In another embodiment, a food packaging container for microwave use is provided. This packaging container includes a first packaging member configured to be heated by a microwave, and a second packaging member associated with the first member and configured to be separated from the first packaging member before heating the first packaging member in a microwave. The packaging container also includes an RFID tag including a reactive strap and a far-field antenna. The reactive strap is associated with the first packaging member, while the far-field antenna is associated with the second packaging member and separated from the reactive strap. The reactive strap is configured to be coupled to the far-field antenna when the second packaging member is associated with the first packaging member, and to be separated from the far-field antenna when the second packaging member is separated from the first packaging member. The RFID tag can perform far-field communication when the reactive strap is coupled to the far-field antenna, while it can perform near-field communication only when the reactive strap is separated from the far-field antenna.

[0068] In some embodiments, the RFID sensor for microwave ovens is a Wavesafe sensor available from Avery Dennison. TM Wavesafe TM Wavesafe is a microwave-safe UHF RFID solution developed by Avery Dennison in 2017 and commercialized in 2019 for attaching item-level tags to fresh, frozen, perishable packaged foods to ensure safety compliance. TM It is designed to achieve a very accurate reading speed for time tracking while preventing arc discharge or heat from forming during microwave heating.

[0069] Standard sensors include the AD251, available from Avery Dennison (Figures 4 and 4A). In some embodiments, microwaveable inlays are used for meat and seafood, including those packaged in / in foam trays. In some embodiments, the microwaveable inlays comply with TUV Rheinland® trademark certification standards. In some embodiments, the RFID sensor is positioned on the outer surface of the foam tray to ensure separation from the item.

[0070] Packaging containers that include one or more of the aforementioned sensors are also described here. In some embodiments, the packaging containers are suitable for packaging a variety of variable weight priced items such as meat, seafood, fresh cut fruits and vegetables, and cheese.

[0071] 2. NFC Near-field communication, abbreviated as NFC, is a form of contactless communication between mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets that uses a radio electromagnetic field rather than wireless transmission (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi). NFC is a derivative of RFID design for use by devices and objects in close proximity to each other. Currently, there are three types of NFC technology in use: Type A, Type B, and FeliCa. In NFC technology, a device known as a reader, interrogator, or active element generates a radio frequency current, which the reader uses to communicate with a small NFC tag or other NFC-compatible device that holds the desired information. Passive elements, such as NFC tags, store information and communicate with the reader, but do not actively read other elements. Peer-to-peer communication via two active elements is also possible with NFC. Thus, both elements can transmit and receive information.

[0072] 3. QR code A Quick Response (QR) code is a type of machine-readable matrix barcode (2D barcode). Often, QR codes contain data for a locator, identifier, or tracker that points to a website or application. QR codes use four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte / binary, and Chinese characters) to efficiently store data, and extensions can also be used. After being detected by a 2D digital image sensor, the QR code is analyzed through digital processing by a programmed processor. This processor positions three unique squares at the corners of the QR code image and uses four smaller squares (or multiple squares) near the corners to standardize the image for size, orientation, and field of view. Then, the small dots throughout the QR code are converted to binary and validated by an error correction algorithm.

[0073] The amount of data that can be stored in a QR code symbol depends on the data type (mode or input character set), version (1, ..., 40, i.e., 4 × version number + 17 dots on each side, indicating the overall dimensions of the symbol), and error correction level. The maximum storage capacity occurs with version 40 and error correction level L (low), as indicated by 40-L.

[0074] 4. Flag tags In some embodiments, the sensor is a flag tag or includes a flag tag. Since a flag tag is a label or tag that includes a digital trigger such as RFID, a portion of the tag or label can be offset from the rest of the tag or label. This can help reduce or eliminate interference between the item to which the tag or label is attached and the digital trigger (e.g., a metal item or packaging container and an RFID metal antenna). A variety of flag tag configurations are known in technique. In some embodiments, this configuration has a fold for generating the offset. One example is the Midas Flagtag(R) available from Avery Dennison. However, other flag tag configurations are also available.

[0075] 5.Electronic Article Surveillance In some embodiments, the methods described herein include methods, systems, hardware, and sensors for loss-preventing electronic product monitoring (EAS). Examples of such methods, systems, hardware, and sensors are described in U.S. Patent Applications 62 / 970,913, 62 / 970,933, and 62 / 981,206, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0076] a. Inlays In some embodiments, the electronic product monitoring system includes at least one RFID device having an antenna. The system further includes a first reading area and a second reading area, with a relatively small transition reading area located between them. In order to reduce the maximum sensitivity of at least one RFID device and increase the bandwidth of at least one RFID device, the conductivity of the antenna of at least one RFID device is reduced so that at least one RFID device is not read in the first reading area while it is being read in the second reading area, and at least one RFID device is not read in the second reading area while it is being read in the first reading area, and the transition area becomes relatively small.

[0077] In other embodiments, the EAS system includes a first RFID device having a first antenna and associated with a first product, and a second RFID device having a second antenna and associated with a second product. The system also includes a first reading area and a second reading area, with a transition area located between them, the transition area being configured to prevent the RFID device from being read in the first reading area while it is being read in the second reading area, and to prevent the RFID device from being read in the second reading area while it is being read in the first reading area. The first and second products are configured to have different effects on the performance of the RFID device, and the first and second antennas are configured to be different from each other, at least in part, based on the nature of the products, so that they have similar reading ranges at a given frequency.

[0078] In another embodiment, an EAS system is provided for determining the location of an RFID device configured to transmit a feedback signal when it receives an RF signal. This electronic monitoring system includes first and second reading areas, first and second receiving antennas, and a controller. The first receiving antenna is configured to receive the feedback signal at a first intensity, while the second receiving antenna is configured to receive the feedback signal at a second intensity. The controller is configured to determine whether the RFID device is located in the first reading area based at least partially on the difference between the first and second intensities.

[0079] In some embodiments, the EAS system determines the location of an RFID device configured to transmit a feedback signal when it receives an RF signal. This electronic monitoring system includes first and second reading areas, first and second receiving antennas, and a controller. The first receiving antenna is configured to transmit a first RF signal to the RFID device and to change the power of the first RF signal to a first power corresponding to a threshold at which the first receiving antenna receives a first feedback signal from the RFID device. The second receiving antenna is configured to transmit a second RF signal to the RFID device and to change the power of the second RF signal to a second power corresponding to a threshold at which the second receiving antenna receives a second feedback signal from the RFID device. The controller is configured to determine whether the RFID device is located in the first reading area based at least in part on the difference between the first and second intensities.

[0080] b. Leader In some embodiments, the EAS system includes a first reading area having the RFID reader and a second reading area having the RFID reader, which are configured to detect the RFID device at a trigger threshold. The system further includes a controller configured to set the trigger threshold at least in part on a factor selected from the group consisting of a sensor value of the RFID device, the number of times the RFID device is detected in the first reading area, and whether the RFID device is detected in the first reading area under predetermined conditions.

[0081] In another embodiment, the EAS system includes a first reading area containing the RFID reader, within which an infrastructure is at least partially located. An RFID guard device is fixed to this infrastructure. A second reading area of ​​the system includes the RFID reader configured to detect an RFID inventory device associated with inventory items that are removable and associated with the infrastructure at a trigger threshold. The system also includes a controller configured to initiate a response selected from a group consisting of trigger correction, correction of the amount of power transmitted by the RFID reader associated with the second reading area, correction of the direction in which power is transmitted by the RFID reader associated with the second reading area, and transmission of a signal indicating the need to move the infrastructure from the second reading area.

[0082] B. Hardwired RFID reader point In some embodiments, RFID reading points are selected to operate within a broader ecosystem, such as a visual or camera-based workout shopping system. Reading points include both hardware and software. In some embodiments, data / datasets are collected during standard consumer journeys. In other embodiments, data / datasets are collected during out-of-range consumer journeys. In some embodiments, data is collected via local-read points and / or wide-area reading points.

[0083] 1. Hardware a. Local Read Devices In some embodiments, the local reading point is a shelf-level reader or includes a shelf-level reader that monitors the presence and timestamp of data last viewed from a given space. In some embodiments, the local reading point is a fully functional packaging unit to reduce or eliminate operational hardware requirements and reduce cabling for ease of use, aesthetics, and adaptability to existing fixtures. In some embodiments, the device issues a unique item ID, timestamp, location, and type of event trigger for a defined target. In some embodiments, event-based data is transmitted directly from the reader without an operational server.

[0084] In some embodiments, the local readout is a phased array antenna grid (Figure 5). The phased array antenna grid provides controllable readout area segments by cycling through phase-crossing signals. The result is a controllable, limited readout area that can be digitally processed across the surface. A number of alternating phase elements generate grid sections capable of x-axis position recognition.

[0085] In some embodiments, the local reading device is a mobile device. This mobile device includes, but is not limited to, smartphones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and cameras.

[0086] In some embodiments, the local reader is a smart shelf, such as Avery Dennison's AD89A-FPA shelf reader. In some embodiments, the shelf reader includes a reader control board and an RF antenna array. In some embodiments, the antennas of each set generate a defined reading area, which circulates electronically along the entire length of the shelf reader. In some embodiments, each smart shelf is connected via a USB cable to a control unit that includes a processing unit. An example configuration is shown in Figure 6. The illustrated configuration shows a 5-port control unit, but a larger capacity can be provided. Additional features, such as WiFi network connectivity, can be added to the control unit. Each set of shelf readers is a self-contained network device that transmits event-based data to the network via the control unit.

[0087] In some embodiments, the local reader includes or is located in a parent-child structure. In some embodiments, the parent-child structure includes a parent smart shelf that controls and powers one or more child smart shelves. This structure includes a single master shelf rather than multiple master shelves with self-controlling and power supply units, thus saving costs.

[0088] In some embodiments, the local reader is a smart shelf comprising an RFID reader and / or one or more RFID antennas (Figures 7–13). In some embodiments, the antennas are classified into two groups: a short-response group within the direct area of ​​the physical shelf, and a long-response group where the reading area extends a certain distance beyond the physical shelf, and the furthest reading edge is a certain distance from the physical shelf. In some embodiments, the short-response antennas are positioned close to one or more products within reading area #1. This reading area can consist of multiple antennas or reading zones. Within reading area #1, products tagged with UHF RFID (radio detection, RF detection, etc.) are detected to detect outbound or inbound events. In some embodiments, reading area #1 has reading zones that are tightly controlled to generate a rapid response, such that the distance a product travels before leaving reading area #1 during product outbound or inbound is short, and the response is close to the shelf and standard sales product structure. The ejection event from reading area #2 is understood to take longer because the edge of reading area 2 is at a certain distance from the physical shelf.

[0089] In retail settings, it is common for products to be torn from their standard sales structure / location by customers and / or other means. As a result, products tagged with UHF RFID can be stacked in a manner that does not conform to standard sales criteria, thus avoiding detection from reading area #1. Since reading area #1 is the first data transmission area, it is a more clearly defined and highly controlled area that operates in close proximity to the product.

[0090] In some embodiments, a long-response antenna also monitors the shelf but uses a higher power or different type of RF reading field to generate a reading area #2, which is ultimately a stronger and larger reading area. Reading area #2 detects inbound and outbound events in a similar manner to reading area #1, but has a slower recognition reaction time because reading area #2 occupies a larger space. Data from reading area #2 is used to correct data indicating products that are not presented to or detected by reading area #1 based on the product location or the location of a number of products that obstruct the view of reading area #1.

[0091] In some embodiments, the relative sizes of the reading areas are reversed. For example, as mentioned above, reading area #1 is larger and reading area #2 is smaller.

[0092] For example, products A, B, and C are located on a smart shelf. Product (C) is isolated from reading area #1 based on the position of product (C) and products (A+B). However, product (C) is detected by reading area #2, which notifies the system that product (C) is still present on the shelf.

[0093] When product (C) is selected or picked from the shelf, the generated data will include an indication that an outbound item occurs in reading area #2 but not in reading area #1. This information provides the data depth to the system and informs the system that the pick-from-shelf event is delayed due to reading area #2 covering a larger area and does not match the typical response time. Detection by reading area #2 only would indicate the sale of a product or a non-standard product of a product. If detected in reading area #2 but not in reading area #1, the absence of a product (etc.) that should be visible in reading area #1 when sold correctly can inform the employee that the product must be resold.

[0094] In some embodiments, the number of reading areas is greater than or less than 2. For example, the number of reading areas is 1, 3, 4, 5, or more. In some embodiments, multiple reading areas have dual functions in two specific reading areas, such as a short-range area and a long-range area. In yet another embodiment, a particular reading area has a function within another reading area. In yet another embodiment, multiple reading areas intersect each other and occur on the same plane.

[0095] In some embodiments, data from separate reading areas are combined to provide data depth, supplement the data, or generate more accurate data.

[0096] In some embodiments, data can be reported in an event-type manner to indicate whether an item is visible in only one of the reading areas or in both reading areas, and the timing between exits can be adjusted by different filters or settings or by data events in multiple reading areas.

[0097] In some embodiments, the data string can be represented as follows: [Tag ID, timestamp, last read area #1, last read area #2, outbound / inbound event, RSSI, Doppler, read rate, reader, antenna, antenna area, other data points]

[0098] Data from numerous defined reading regions can provide data depth for machine learning, artificial intelligence, localized software, and readily available data.

[0099] The aforementioned hardware configuration can vary depending on the system design and the leveraging near-field, mid-field, or far-field antenna design. Antenna types can be combined within the reading area, with only one type of antenna per reading area, and reading area #1 having a different antenna type than reading area #2 or other areas.

[0100] Other sensors and data inputs may also be preferable. These sensors may be non-RF-based sensors such as vision, infrared, ultrasonic, or other known devices.

[0101] b. Wide Area Read Devices In some embodiments, wide range indicates or defines a reading area or multiple reading areas that cover not only the area of ​​the product but also the surrounding area where the product is sold when stationary. In some embodiments, wide range includes, but is not limited to, an RFID real-time location system (RTLS) that reports x and y coordinates. RTLS is typically used to precisely pinpoint the exact location of an item within a facility. In some embodiments, RTLS operates by a combination of Bluetooth technology and GPS to monitor and track objects and their interactions when they occur. In some embodiments, the RTLS functionality of an RFID reader is used only to complement an existing sensor set or multiple detector system in use. For example, one or more detectors used in the multiple detector system described herein function as RTLS.

[0102] In some embodiments, the wide-area reader is or includes a phased array of overhead readers acting with multiple reading areas in a north-side, south-side, east-side, and west-side configuration. These multiple areas can be used to generate x and y coordinates. In some embodiments, these RF coordinates are combined with visual coordinates for the item to help confirm after product selection. In some embodiments, the wide-area reader includes a single reading area or multiple reading areas covering not only a local reading area where the tagged variable weight price item is placed, but also the surrounding area where the tagged variable weight price item is sold at the sales and / or storage location.

[0103] In some embodiments, the local region includes one smart shelf or a shelf or a series of shelves that include multiple smart shelves.

[0104] In some embodiments, the local area includes a storage container. In some other embodiments, the local area includes a storage area.

[0105] 2. Data Path / Software In several embodiments, the system receives diverse data formats from numerous different data sources, repackages the received data for a specific purpose, and securely and reliably transmits the packaged digital ID data. The method and system for receiving and processing data are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 034,079, which is employed by reference herein.

[0106] In some embodiments, the data transmitted from the present invention is a data fragment or a series of data from one of a number of data sources. These diverse data sources may be a number of different sensors that collect data based on a specific purpose. The present invention is expected to combine data from one or a number of reading areas, combine multiple data inputs at a storage location, and / or transmit one or a number of datasets to machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence systems.

[0107] In some embodiments, data transmitted from the present invention is combined with other data sources to determine system behavior or activity, and / or initiate or disable internal or external system notifications.

[0108] In some embodiments, an external sensor collects data that affects the threshold and events transmitted by the present invention.

[0109] In some embodiments, data and / or event data influence thresholds and events transmitted by external and / or other sensors.

[0110] In some embodiments, data sources can communicate with each other to dynamically adjust settings within a source device. This method provides dynamic adjustments that are influenced by the environment, as interpreted by other data sources or source devices and sensors.

[0111] In some embodiments, the system includes a storage location for receiving a set of items from a source, i.e., items containing unique digital IDs. In some embodiments, the storage location may be a designated application, such as a cloud application or intermediary software. In other embodiments, the cloud application may be a platform for assigning and / or managing unique digital IDs for tagged products. This platform can provide supply chain information, authentication, track and trace, trademark protection, and / or customer promise experience. In some embodiments, the platform can receive data about a set of items from a source and manage the digital IDs of those products. The storage location can also manage a large inventory of products based on information received from the source and is configured to combine or integrate the received data about products with other product-specific data, environmental-specific data, consumer behavior data, or other variable and / or fixed data feeds.

[0112] In some embodiments, the sequenced items may be RFID tagged products, UPC-coded products, or ERP-coded products containing a digital ID about the product that the source can read. The digital ID may include a product-specific ID, item expiration date, or other product-related data, and the data source may include edge devices such as smart shelves, smart coolers, smart stores, or smart storage having an electronic display and an RFID reader / interrogator that monitors nearby products. For example, when the sequenced items are removed from the source, to the source, or around the source, the source can exchange its information with the storage location. In some embodiments, the source may be a handheld device such as a mobile device including, but not limited to, a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.

[0113] In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more digital purpose applications, including, but not limited to, cloud applications. These purpose applications are configured to receive and publish aggregated data transmitted from storage locations via connectors. These connectors may be Active Directory Gateways, cloud connectors, etc. The purpose applications can provide product data, availability, and inventory lists to local area searchers. Additionally, pricing information about products may be manipulated by the purpose applications based on, for example, product expiration dates, shelf life, or other data that suits user requests and / or preferences.

[0114] The target application can publish data in a searchable format. Additionally, the target application transmits the data back to the source or other electronic display at the retail location, thus benefiting from the integrated and / or updated data. For example, a consumer can see the same price for a product online in the target application they are viewing at the retail location.

[0115] In some embodiments, this method and system are as described above, and the system includes a Purpose Cloud application for receiving, manipulating, and issuing a series of items from a source. The series of items may include RFID tagged products, UPC-coded products, or ERP-coded products containing a digital ID about the product that the source can read without limitation. The digital ID may include a product-specific ID, item expiration date, or other useful product data. The source may be an edge device. This edge device may include a fixed or handheld device having an RFID reader / interrogator that has an electronic display and monitors products / series of items located at the source, as well as communicating with sensors or machine-readable codes, such as a smart shelf, smart cooler, smart store, or smart storage. For example, when a series of items is removed from the source by a customer or employee, attached to the source, or manipulated around the source, the source can transmit that information to the Purpose Cloud application.

[0116] Similar to the previous embodiments mentioned earlier, the objective cloud application receives data about a set of items and manages the digital IDs of the products via connectors. The objective cloud application also manages a large inventory of products based on information received from sources. The objective cloud application is configured to combine the received data about products with product identification data. The connectors may be an Active Directory gateway, a cloud connector, or a similar device. The objective cloud application can provide the combined product data, or any portion thereof, to local area searchers. In addition, pricing information about products may be manipulated by the objective cloud application based on, for example, product expiration dates, shelf life, or other useful data.

[0117] The purpose cloud application can publish data in a searchable format that can be used by consumers in a local area. Additionally, the purpose application or storage location can transmit the data back to a source or other electronic display at a retail location, and the source or other electronic display can also use the combined data. For example, a consumer can see the same price for a product online in the purpose cloud application they intend to view at the retail location.

[0118] In other embodiments, the methods and systems described herein include steps to enhance the mobility and accessibility of product-related data. The system includes a designated application, such as a cloud application, for receiving data about a series of items from a source, and the designated application may be intermediary software. As stated above, the series of items may be RFID tag products, UPC coded products, or ERP coded products containing a digital ID about the product that can be read by the source, and the digital ID may include a product-specific ID, item expiration date, or other useful product data or information. The source may be an edge device such as a smart shelf, smart cooler, smart store, or smart storage equipped with an RFID reader / interrogator having an electronic display and capable of monitoring the series of items. For example, when a series of items is removed from the source, the source can transmit that information to a storage location, which can then update the product data stored therein.

[0119] The designated application is configured to receive data about a set of items from sources and manage the digital IDs of the products. The designated application also manages large product inventories based on information received from sources. Furthermore, the designated application is configured to integrate the received product data with other product-specific data, and can receive data about a set of items from numerous data collection points. These numerous data collection points are sources that would otherwise not serve a data-sharing environment, such as inventory scans, sales data points, vendor data, and data center data.

[0120] This system may further include designated applications. These designated applications are configured to receive, manipulate, and publish combined data transmitted from designated cloud applications. The designated applications can provide product data, availability, and inventory data to local area searchers. Additionally, pricing information for products may be manipulated by the designated applications based on product expiration dates, shelf life, or other product data.

[0121] Subsequently, a designated application, such as a cloud application, publishes the combined data in a format that can be searched by consumers in the local area. Additionally, the designated application can transmit the data again to a source or other electronic display at the retail store location. Here, consumers can see the same price for the product online in the designated application they intend to view at the retail store location and determine if there is local stock of the item they wish to purchase.

[0122] In some embodiments, the method described herein includes or has edgeware. Edgeware is embedded software that operates on reader hardware, eliminating the need for business computer equipment and servers. Edgeware simplifies the data path and reduces software development requirements for the user. In some embodiments, as described above, edgeware transmits event-based data directly from the reader to local and / or cloud destinations. Event-based data is reliable, and the software is optimized to reduce stray reads and provide flexibility to adjust the amount of data transmitted from the device to the data destination.

[0123] In some embodiments, various data strings can be defined and transmitted for event-based data. For example: AAAABBBBCCCCDDDDEEEE0002, (Leader Name), 7, InField, 2019-12-03T19:16:41.552010Z (EPC, Leader Name, Antenna #, Event Type, Timestamp) AAAABBBBCCCCDDDEEEE0003, Zl, FSeen, 2019-02-06T18:59:06z, LSeen, 2019-02-06T18:59:06z (EPC, Area Identifier, First Viewed Timestamp, Last Viewed Timestamp)

[0124] 3. In-store tagging method and delegation of unique digital IDs In some embodiments, the method includes the transfer and delegation of unique IDs. In some embodiments, the transfer and delegation are performed at a service station. In other embodiments, the transfer and delegation are performed at the retail brand owner or retailer's location. In some embodiments, a portable print / write device can be used. For example, the Pathfinder, available from Avery Dennison. TMIt writes EPC data and prints human-readable data onto an adhesive-attached RFID tag. In some embodiments, the portable device is a handheld device of the Pathfinder 6059 model. This device has an integrated RFID encoder and offers the unique ability to scan barcodes, encode RFID, print labels, and apply labels to packaged food in a single streamlined process. The average process time to perform this operation is approximately 4 seconds, enabling highly productive tagging, ideal for in-store applications such as reading tagged variable weight price items or perishable parts. The method described here is also useful for detecting movement in sales and / or storage locations or areas, i.e., movement of items from one side to the other, such as moving from room to room or from shelf to shelf. Item movement typically occurs during item verification or during replenishment of items while they are being sold, etc. Detection can also be performed at the point of sale, alone or in conjunction with detection at sales and / or storage locations or areas.

[0125] C. Identification of images in close proximity to the mobile device and / or images within the digital image. In some embodiments, the systems described herein include a method for identifying items in close proximity to a mobile device and / or items in a digital image. This identification method is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 026,392, which is adopted by reference herein.

[0126] Mobile devices include, but are not limited to, smartphones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and cameras. In some embodiments, the position of a mobile device is determined using one or more technically known methods and techniques. Suitable methods and techniques include, but are not limited to, outdoor positioning systems (OPS) and indoor positioning systems (IPS). Examples of OPS include, but are not limited to, the Global Positioning System (GPS).

[0127] Examples of IPS include, but are not limited to, non-radio technologies and wireless technologies. Examples of non-radio technologies include, but are not limited to, magnetic positioning, inertial measurements, positioning based on visual markers, and positioning based on known visual features. Examples of wireless technologies include, but are not limited to, ultra-wideband (UWB), Wi-Fi positioning systems (WiPS or WFPS), Bluetooth, Bluetooth 5.1, Bluetooth slow energy (BLE), choke point concepts, grid concepts, long-range sense concepts, angle of arrival, time of arrival, received signal strength indication, and combinations thereof.

[0128] In some embodiments, the methods and techniques used to determine the position of the mobile device are accurate within 5 meters, 4 meters, 3 meters, 2 meters, 1 meter, 0.9 meters, 0.8 meters, 0.7 meters, 0.6 meters, 0.5 meters, 0.4 meters, 0.3 meters, 0.2 meters, or 0.1 meters.

[0129] In some embodiments, the position of the mobile device is determined using one or more techniques described herein, and one or more items in proximity to the mobile device are identified. In some embodiments, the term “proximity” means within approximately 10 meters, 9 meters, 8 meters, 7 meters, 6 meters, 5 meters, 4 meters, 3 meters, 2 meters, 1 meter, 0.9 meters, 0.8 meters, 0.7 meters, 0.6 meters, 0.5 meters, 0.4 meters, 0.3 meters, 0.2 meters, or 0.1 meters. However, a single item or a number of items may be further away.

[0130] The ID of a single item or a group of items can be determined using one or more technically known techniques. Examples of such techniques include, but are not limited to, planograms, visual inventory, RFID handheld inventory, RFID overhead inventory, vision system inventory, QR codes, barcodes, NFC, or other technically known methods.

[0131] In some embodiments, at the location of the mobile device, one or more items have one or more sensors attached to them. These sensors can be detected by a local scanner. The items are said to be identified by digital processing. The sensors can be embedded in labels such as pressure adhesive labels or other types of labels, or in tags such as hanging tags. The sensors can be any technically known sensors suitable for the methods and applications described herein. In some embodiments, the sensors are, for example, radio frequency identification (RFID such as UHF or HF) sensors, near-field communication (NFC) sensors, quick response (QR) codes, machine-readable codes, visual systems, Bluetooth slow energy (BLE) beacons, or other digital identification (ID) systems. In some embodiments, the location of the mobile device is determined by one or more of the techniques described above, and items in proximity to the mobile device are identified using UHF RFID. In some embodiments, the digital ID system is UHF Gen2 RFID or a similar standard.

[0132] In some embodiments, the methods described herein include or involve identifying one or more items in a digital image, such as a photograph or video. Photographs or videos can be acquired using mobile devices, including, but not limited to, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and digital cameras. In some embodiments, one or more items in a photograph or video have a digital ID recorded by the device's own reader, smart shelf, scheduled inventory run, or other digital ID reader. In some embodiments, an image has an identification (ID) / timestamp used to highlight or list items in an image, such as items in an image read over the same area as the image, allowing those items to be actively searched as digital images. In some embodiments, an identification (ID) stamp indicating the location of the device used to take the photograph or video can be determined or generated using one or more of the techniques described above.

[0133] In some embodiments, the locations of devices and single or multiple items adjacent to a photograph or video, and / or devices and single or multiple items located within the photograph or video, are stored in a digital storage location. In some embodiments, the locations of single or multiple items and devices are stored in the same digital storage location or in different digital storage locations. The digital storage location may be a locally developed cloud-based application (e.g., on a store device such as a laptop, tablet, or mobile device), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the locations of devices and the IDs of single or multiple items are stored in the aforementioned digital storage locations, and the locations of devices and the IDs of single or multiple items are associated with each other to provide items and their information to a user, e.g., a customer. The user can manually search / navigate all identified items. Alternatively, the user can manually search with one or more filters to limit or reduce the number of items presented to the user. For example, the user may want to see only certain types of clothing such as shirts, pants, sweaters, jackets, etc., or accessories such as clothing, footwear, jewelry, etc. In other embodiments, filters (etc.) can restrict the items presented to the user by clothing type as well as by color and / or size, availability, etc. When the user views one or more items of interest, the user can select those items to view additional information. The methods described herein may also include search functions to control the observability, experience, and / or the order in which items are displayed. For example, the user can slide content away or save content. In other embodiments, the user can check boxes or indicate interest using other known methods.

[0134] Examples of the types of information provided to users, but not limited to, may include, but are related or supplementary information about an item such as location, price, size, availability, coupons and discounts, appropriate materials and manufacturing, interactive consumer experiences, and combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A method for detecting one or more target items, which are variable weight price items or perishable items, in a checkout system that performs detection by visual or camera-based detection and radio frequency identification, The aforementioned method, Attaching one or more tags to the item in question, each including an inlay containing multiple digital triggers encoded with one or more unique digital IDs, wherein the multiple digital triggers include digital triggers readable by visual or camera substrates and digital triggers by radio frequency identification. The activity of the tagged target item is detected in a local area using one of the multiple digital triggers, Includes, The tagged target item is detected by a local area reader that reads a local area. The local area reading device includes a number of antennas classified as short-response antennas and long-response antennas, wherein the short-response antennas are close to one or more of the target items to be detected, and the long-response antennas are close but further away than the short-response antennas, and include a reading field that has higher power than the short-response antennas or uses another type of RF reading field. method.

2. A method for detecting one or more target items, which are variable weight price items or perishable items, in a checkout system that performs detection by visual or camera-based detection and radio frequency identification, The aforementioned method, Attaching one or more tags to the item in question, each including an inlay containing multiple digital triggers encoded with one or more unique digital IDs, wherein the multiple digital triggers include digital triggers readable by visual or camera substrates and digital triggers by radio frequency identification. The activity of the tagged target item is detected in a local area using one of the multiple digital triggers, Includes, The tagged target items are detected by a local area reader and a wide area reader, The wide-area reading device is characterized by including one reading area or a number of reading areas that cover the local area where the tagged target item is placed and the surrounding area where the tagged target item is sold. method.

3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the plurality of digital triggers are selected from the group consisting of HF RFID, UHF RFID, NFC, and QR code (registered trademark).

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the inlay is suitable for application to plastic packaging containers.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the inlay is a low-profile inlay.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the inlay is a microwave inlay.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the local area reading device is a smart shelf.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the local area reading device is a mobile device.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that the smart shelf is a phased array antenna.

10. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that the smart shelf includes a parent-child shelf structure.

11. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the wide-area reading device includes a phase array of overhead readers that operate with a large number of reading areas in a north-side, south-side, east-side, and west-side configuration.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the tagged target item can be read using a handheld reader.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the data read from one or more target items is transmitted directly from the reader device or reader to one or more local and / or cloud destinations via edgeware.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the digital trigger further includes electronic product monitoring (EAS) functionality.

15. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the local area is the area of ​​a retail store location.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that the retail store location is a grocery store.

17. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the target item is selected from the group consisting of cheese, meat, seafood, fruits, vegetables and combinations thereof.

18. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the activity includes inventory management or sales of one or more target items.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the inventory management includes confirming the presence or absence of one or more target items.

20. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the activity includes adding or removing target items from the local area.

21. A method for detecting the activity of one or more subject items, which are variable weight price items or perishable items, using a multiplex detector system that performs detection by visual or camera-based detection and radio frequency identification, Attaching one or more tags to the item in question, each including an inlay containing multiple digital triggers encoded with one or more unique digital IDs, wherein the multiple digital triggers include digital triggers readable by visual or camera substrates and digital triggers by radio frequency identification. Detecting the activity of the tagged items in the sales and / or storage area using one of the multiple digital triggers, Includes, The aforementioned multiplex detector system includes a local region reader for reading local regions, The local area reading device includes a number of antennas classified as short-response antennas and long-response antennas, wherein the short-response antennas are close to one or more target items to be detected, and the long-response antennas are close but further away than the short-response antennas, and include a reading field that uses higher power or other types of RF reading fields than the short-response antennas. A method characterized by the following features.

22. A method for detecting the activity of one or more target items, which are variable weight price items or perishable items, using a multiplex detector system that performs detection by visual or camera-based detection and radio frequency identification, Attaching one or more tags to the item in question, each including an inlay containing multiple digital triggers encoded with one or more unique digital IDs, wherein the multiple digital triggers include digital triggers readable by visual or camera substrates and digital triggers by radio frequency identification. Detecting the activity of the tagged items in the sales and / or storage area using one of the multiple digital triggers, Includes, The aforementioned multiple detector system includes a local area reader and a wide area reader for reading local areas. The wide-area reading device is characterized by including one reading area or a number of reading areas that cover the local area where the tagged target item is placed and the surrounding area where the tagged target item is sold. method.

23. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the activity includes inventory management or sales of one or more of the target items.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the inventory management involves confirming the presence or absence of one or more target items.

25. The method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the activity includes adding or removing at least one of the one or more target items to the sales and / or storage area.

26. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the sales and / or storage area includes shelves.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the sales and / or storage area includes a series of shelves.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that the shelf or the series of shelves includes one smart shelf or a plurality of smart shelves.

29. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that the sales and / or storage area includes storage containers for the items concerned.

30. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that one or more detectors in the multiple detector system include a mobile phone.

31. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that one or more detectors in the multiple detector system function as a real-time position system.

32. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the one or more digital IDs are composed of machine-readable codes.

33. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the one or more digital IDs are associated with metadata.

34. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the one or more digital IDs are associated with an image.

35. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the inlay is a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) tag.

36. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, characterized in that the one or more digital triggers include electronic product monitoring (EAS) functionality.

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