Transaction recording system

Abstract

A transaction recording system for use in recording a transaction occurring at a point-of-sale. The system includes a video capture device having a field of vision. The video capture device captures, produces and transmits video data signals representative of the field of vision of the device, and the video capture device is positioned within an enclosure at a desired position at the point-of-sale. The system includes a point-of-sale processing system located at or near the point-of-sale for receiving, processing, storing and / or transmitting video data signals. The field of vision of the video capture device views at least a portion of the point-of-sale during at least a portion of the transaction.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 129,583, filed May 13, 2005, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 571,475, filed May 14, 2004, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates generally to integrated data management systems and recording systems positioned at a point-of-sale (“POS”) or point-of-transaction and, in particular, to a POS transaction recording system including an assembly for positioning a camera security system on, near or within an item or object positioned at the POS. [0004] 2. Description of the Related Art [0005] There is a need in the art for a more dependable method of recording all possible transactions and interactions between parties. Presently, in the art, most cameras are mounted in ceilings, and the video is recorded in a sepa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This solution provides clear, unobstructed views of transactions, reduces customer discomfort, improves data integrity, and enhances security by minimizing cable-related issues and securing data storage, while reducing the number of cameras and cabling required.

Problems solved by technology

Such systems are known in the art, but have several drawbacks that result from these current processes.

First, due to positioning of the camera almost directly above the POS, there are often obstacles in the intended line of sight.

Further, this steep angle does not provide the optimal view of the subjects.

In the prior art, there are some systems that place their cameras more effectively, but the cameras are in plain sight, which in turn creates two problems: 1) the customers often feel very uncomfortable; and 2) if the customer / cashier knows where the camera is located, they can position themselves in a way that will prevent the camera from viewing its intended line of sight.

Another drawback and limitation of the prior art is the integration of the transaction information and the video away from the POS.

Such cabling can be very expensive and it tends to lose picture quality at long distances.

The other problem with having a remotely-positioned DVR is that some of the people being monitored have access to areas where the DVR is stored and POS information is reviewed (e.g. cash office and computer room).

These rooms are left unsupervised far more often than a cash register.

Yet another drawback in limitation of the prior art is in the field of gambling or other games of chance, where the customers and / or dealers are often monitored for cheating or other irregular behavior.

While this camera is effective in monitoring a large majority of the tables under playing conditions, it has limited angles of view and other functionality due to its central and immobile location with respect to any specific area of the casino.

Again, as discussed above, when a security camera is positioned on the ceiling (as is known in the art), such location creates a steep viewing angle, which makes it difficult to obtain a clear picture of the subject's face.

In addition, if the target subject is wearing a hat, e.g., a ball cap, their face may be completely shielded, rendering the security system almost useless.

Some systems may position a camera on a wall behind the teller, which leads to additional drawbacks.

Often, many different objects are blocking the camera's line-of-sight, and even the teller him- or herself creates an obstacle to the camera's line-of-sight.

Still further, many banks, financial institutions and casinos include bulletproof glass between the teller and customer, which creates glare, again making it difficult to view the subject.

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