Method and apparatus for removing a security label

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure include methods, systems, and non-transitory computer-readable media for: receiving an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to a merchandise, wherein the acknowledgement signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device of the security tag, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identifying the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; transmitting a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable a controller to receive a release signal for unlocking the security tag from the merchandise; and transmitting the release signal to the controller to unlock the security tag from the merchandise.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Non - Provisional Application No. 17 / 014,482, filed on September 8, 2020, entitled "Methods and Apparatuses for Removing a Security Tag", and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 912,570, filed on October 8, 2019, entitled "System and Method for Using Low Frequency Wireless Communications to Detach a Security Tag from an Article Using a Detaching Pad", the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In a retail environment, loss, theft, or misplacement of merchandise can result in revenue loss to a store. As a preventive measure, retail stores may place security tags on merchandise to prevent loss. The security tag can be removed only after a purchase is completed to allow the customer who has purchased the merchandise to leave the retail store properly. However, after a purchase is completed, the security tag may need to be removed manually, which can be time - consuming and / or error - prone. Additionally, the process of removing the security tag associated with a purchased item may result in the accidental removal of other security tags (associated with non - purchased items) in the vicinity of the security tag associated with the purchased item. Thus, improvements in tag removal may be desirable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure include methods, systems, and non-transitory computer-readable media for performing the following: receiving an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to an item, wherein the indication includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identifying the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; transmitting a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable the RFID device to receive an RFID signal for unlocking the security tag from the item; and transmitting the RFID signal to the RFID device to unlock the security tag from the item.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure includes a method that includes: receiving an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to an item, wherein the indication includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identifying the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; transmitting a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable the RFID device to receive an RFID signal for unlocking the security tag from the item; and transmitting the RFID signal to the RFID device to unlock the security tag from the item.

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure include a scanner having an RFID device, a wireless device, a memory storing instructions, and a processor configured to execute the instructions to: receive an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to an item, wherein the indication includes an RFID device identifier associated with the RFID device, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identify the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; transmit a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable the RFID device to receive an RFID signal for unlocking the security tag from the item; and transmit the RFID signal to the RFID device to unlock the security tag from the item.

[0008] Certain aspects of the present disclosure include a non - transitory computer - readable medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: receive an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to an item, where the signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identify the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; send a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable the RFID device to receive an RFID signal for unlocking the security tag from the item; and transmit the RFID signal to the RFID device to unlock the security tag from the item.

[0009] Aspects of the present disclosure include a method, a security tag, and a non - transitory computer - readable medium for performing the following: receiving a wireless signal to enable an RFID device of the security tag to receive an RFID signal for detaching the security tag from an item; sending an enabling signal to the RFID device in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the RFID signal; receiving the RFID signal; generating an unlocking signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the RFID signal, where at least a portion of a first electrical energy of the unlocking signal is derived from a second electrical energy of the RFID signal; and sending the unlocking signal to the locking mechanism to detach the security tag from the item.

[0010] Aspects of the present disclosure include a method, an RFID scanner, and a non - transitory computer - readable medium for the following: receiving an acknowledgement signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to an item, where the acknowledgement signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device of the security tag, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; identifying the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; transmitting a wireless signal to the wireless device to enable a controller to receive a release signal for unlocking the security tag from the item; and transmitting the release signal to the controller to unlock the security tag from the item.

[0011] Aspects of the present disclosure include methods, security tags, and non-transitory computer-readable media for: receiving a wireless signal to enable a controller of the security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from a commodity; sending an enable signal to the controller in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the release signal; receiving the release signal; generating an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal; and sending the unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the commodity.

[0012] Aspects of the present disclosure include methods, security tags, and non-transitory computer-readable media for: receiving a release signal having a signal waveform; determining whether the signal waveform is substantially the same as a predetermined waveform; generating an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to determining that the signal waveform is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal; and sending the unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from a commodity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The features that are regarded as aspects of the present disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. In the following description, throughout the specification and the drawings, like parts are marked with like numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and in some instances, certain figures may be shown exaggerated or generalized in form for clarity and conciseness. However, the present disclosure itself, its preferred modes of use, further objects, and advantages will best be understood when read in conjunction with the following detailed description of the illustrative aspects of the present disclosure, in the drawings:

[0014] Figure 1 An example of an environment for implementing a security tag removal process in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 An example of a radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner and a security tag in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 An example of a method for transmitting an RFID signal to remove a security tag in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 An example of a method for removing a security tag in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 An example of a computer system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 6 Shows an example of a security tag in a locked position in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 Shows an example of a security tag in an unlocked position in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 Shows an example of an RFID scanner in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 9 Shows an example of a system including a security tag and an RFID scanner in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

[0023] Figure 10 Shows an example of a method for removing a security tag in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following includes definitions of selected terms used herein. The definitions include various examples and / or forms of components that fall within the scope of the terms and can be used in embodiments. The examples are not intended to be limiting.

[0025] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a security tag can include a radio frequency identification (RFID) device and a wireless device (e.g., a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or near field communication (NFC) device). The RFID device can be associated with the wireless device. For example, the hardware address of the RFID device can be associated with the hardware address of the wireless device. The association can be performed before using the security tag.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the security tag can be used to prevent retail losses. For example, an employee of a retail store can lock the security tag to a merchandise item. After a customer purchases the merchandise item, the security tag can be removed from the merchandise item. In one aspect of the present disclosure, a removal system can be connected and communicate with a purchase system. After a customer purchases the merchandise item, the purchase system can transmit a confirmation signal indicating the purchase to the removal system. The removal system can transmit a wireless signal to the wireless device of the security tag to unlock the security tag from the merchandise item. The removal system can transmit a release signal to a controller to actuate the security tag. The wireless signal and the release signal can unlock the security tag from the merchandise item.

[0027] REFERENCE Figure 1, in a non-limiting embodiment, an example of an environment 100 (e.g., a retail store) for loss prevention according to aspects of the present disclosure. The environment may include merchandise 102 having a security tag 104 attached thereto. The security tag 104 may be locked (e.g., unable to be removed from the merchandise 102 without damaging the merchandise 102) to prevent unauthorized removal from the merchandise 102. The security tag 104 may include an RFID device 240 configured to transmit and / or receive RFID signals. The security tag 104 may include a wireless device 250 configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, etc.). The RFID device 240 may include an RFID device identifier 241. The wireless device 250 may include a wireless device identifier 251. The security tag 104 may include a controller 290.

[0028] In some embodiments, the environment 100 may include a cash register 128 operating in a point-of-sale (POS) area 120. The cash register 128 may complete a sale associated with the merchandise 102. The cash register 128 may transmit a signal indicating completion of the sale associated with the merchandise 102 to a server 140.

[0029] In some embodiments, the environment 100 may include a server 140 and an optional data repository 141. The server 140 may communicate with an RFID scanner 112 and / or the cash register 128 via communication links 154, 156. The communication links 154, 156 may be wired or wireless communication channels.

[0030] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the environment 100 may include an RFID scanner 112 configured to transmit and / or receive RFID signals. The RFID scanner 112 may include a communication component 142 configured to communicate with a server 140 via a communication link 154 and / or with a cash register 128 via a communication link 152. The RFID scanner 112 may include an identification component 144 configured to identify a wireless device associated with an RFID device. The RFID scanner 112 may include a release component 146 configured to transmit and / or receive a release signal to / from a security tag 104. The RFID scanner 112 may include a wireless component 148 configured to transmit a wireless signal to the wireless device 250 of the security tag 104 and / or receive the wireless signal from the wireless device of the security tag. One or more of the communication component 142, the identification component 144, the release component 146, and / or the wireless component 148 may be configured as hardware (e.g., an application specific integrated circuit, an application processor, a field programmable gate array, etc.), software (e.g., instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the RFID scanner 112), or a combination thereof. A controller 290 may be configured to transmit an unlock signal and / or receive a release signal for unlocking the security tag 104.

[0031] During operation, prior to conducting a retail transaction, the RFID device 240 of the security tag 104 may be associated with the wireless device 250 of the security tag. In one embodiment, an RFID device identifier 241 may be associated with a wireless device identifier 251. For example, an RFID hardware address or a portion of the RFID hardware address of the RFID device 240 may be associated with a wireless hardware address or a portion of the wireless hardware address of the wireless device 250. In another embodiment, a serial number or a portion of the serial number of the RFID device 240 may be associated with a serial number or a portion of the serial number of the wireless device 250. The association may be stored in the server 140 and / or an optional data repository 141. The RFID hardware address may be stored in the RFID device 240 (or a memory in the RFID device 240). The wireless hardware address may be stored in the wireless device 250 (or a memory in the wireless device 250). The serial number of the RFID device 240 and / or the wireless device 250 may be displayed on the security tag 104. The hardware address and / or the serial number may be an alphanumeric string. In an alternative example, the server 140 may perform a mathematical function (e.g., a hash function) on the RFID device identifier 241 and / or the wireless device identifier 251 and associate the result.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, the RFID device identifier 241 may be associated with the release signal 166. For example, the release signal 166 may comprise a specific waveform. The RFID device identifier 241 may be associated with the release signal 166. The controller 290 may unlock the security tag 104 only in response to receiving the release signal 166 from the RFID scanner 112. Other signals transmitted to the controller 290 may not unlock the security tag 104.

[0033] In one embodiment, the security tag 104 may be attached to the merchandise 102. The attachment may comprise a locking mechanism (described below) that prevents unauthorized separation of the security tag 104 from the merchandise 102. The security tag 104 may prevent and / or deter unauthorized removal of the merchandise 102 from the environment 100.

[0034] In some embodiments, the customer 124 may attempt to purchase the merchandise 102. The merchandise 102 may be attached to the security tag 104. For example, the cash register 128 may receive price identification information associated with the merchandise 102 (e.g., a barcode scanned by the cash register 128 or a price tag entered by the store clerk 126 and / or the customer 124). In response, the cash register 128 may present the price of the merchandise 102 to the customer 124. The cash register 128 may receive payment from the customer 124 (e.g., credit card, cash, or check).

[0035] In certain embodiments, the RFID scanner 112 may transmit an interrogation signal to the RFID device 240. In response, the RFID scanner 112 may receive a response signal that contains the RFID device identifier 241 (e.g., an RFID hardware address or an RFID serial number). The RFID scanner 112 may transmit the RFID device identifier 241 to the cash register 128 via the communication link 152. In response to receiving the RFID device identifier 241, the cash register 128 may associate the sale of the merchandise 102 with the RFID device identifier 241.

[0036] In some variations, the cash register may transmit an acknowledgement signal 162 to the RFID scanner 112. The RFID scanner 112 may receive the acknowledgement signal 162 from the cash register 128 via the communication link 152 and / or from the server via the communication link 156. The acknowledgement signal 162 may contain some or all of the following information: merchandise information for the merchandise 102, the RFID device identifier 241, an indication to unlock the security tag 104 from the merchandise, etc.

[0037] In a non-limiting embodiment, the RFID scanner 112 may identify the wireless device 250 associated with the RFID device 240 based on the RFID device identifier 241. For example, the RFID scanner 112 may transmit the RFID device identifier 241 to the server 140 via the communication link 154. The server 140 may retrieve the association between the RFID device 240 and the wireless device 250 via the RFID device identifier 241 and transmit the wireless device identifier 251 to the RFID scanner 112. In another example, the RFID scanner 112 may locally store (in the memory) the association between the RFID device 240 and the wireless device 250. The RFID scanner 112 may retrieve the wireless device identifier 251 from the memory.

[0038] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the RFID scanner 112 may transmit a wireless signal 164 to the wireless device 250 of the security tag 104 based on the RFID device identifier 241 and / or the retrieved wireless device identifier 251. The wireless signal 164 may instruct the wireless device 250 to enable the controller to receive a subsequent and / or simultaneous release signal 168 for unlocking the security tag 104 from the merchandise 102. The wireless signal 164 may be encrypted. For example, the wireless signal 164 may be encrypted using symmetric or asymmetric encryption. The wireless signal 164 may be encrypted using the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, the Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm, the MD5 encryption algorithm, or other suitable encryption algorithms.

[0039] In some aspects, the unlock signal transmitter 260 may transmit a release signal 166 to the security tag 104 to unlock the security tag 104 from the merchandise. The release signal 166 may be a low-frequency signal (e.g., below 1 megahertz). The security tag 104 may use the energy in the release signal 166 for the unlocking operation. The release signal 166 may be encrypted. For example, the release signal 166 may be encrypted using symmetric or asymmetric encryption. The release signal 166 may be encrypted using the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm, the Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm, the MD5 encryption algorithm, or other suitable encryption algorithms.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 and 2 As shown in

[0041] As used herein, the term "processor" may refer to a device that processes signals and performs general computing and arithmetic functions. The signals processed by the processor may include digital signals, data signals, computer instructions, processor instructions, messages, bits, bit streams, or other computations that can be received, transmitted, and / or detected. The processor may include, for example, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), a state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware circuitry, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functions described herein. As used herein, the term "memory" may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), and electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM). Volatile memory may include, for example, random access memory (RAM), synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), and direct RAM bus RAM (DRRAM).

[0042] As used herein, the term "memory" may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), and electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM). Volatile memory may include, for example, random access memory (RAM), synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), and direct RAM bus RAM (DRRAM).

[0043] In some embodiments, the RFID scanner 112 may include a memory 212. The RFID scanner 112 may include an RFID driver 220 configured to transmit and / or receive RFID signals through the scanner coil 222. The RFID scanner 112 may include a transceiver 230 configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals through the scanner antenna 232. The RFID scanner 112 may include a release signal transmitter 260 configured to transmit a release signal 166 through the release signal antenna 262.

[0044] The processor 210 can cause the RFID driver 220 to transmit an RFID signal to the security tag 104 via the scanner coil 222. The RFID driver 220 can energize the scanner coil 222 to transmit a release signal 166. The scanner coil 222 can include one or more inductors that transmit or receive electromagnetic signals. The processor 210 can include a release component 146 that causes the release signal transmitter 260 to transmit a release signal 166 to the security tag 104 via the release signal antenna 262. The processor 210 can include a wireless component 148 that causes the transceiver 230 to transmit a wireless signal via the scanner antenna 232.

[0045] Additionally, in some non-limiting examples, the security tag 104 can include an RFID device 240 that transmits and / or receives RFID signals via the tag coil 242. The security tag 104 can include a wireless device 250 that transmits and / or receives wireless signals via the tag antenna 252. The security tag 104 can include a locking mechanism 280 that securely attaches the security tag 104 to the merchandise 102.

[0046] During operation, in some embodiments, the processor 210, the memory 212, the wireless component 148, the transceiver 230, and / or the scanner antenna 232 can receive an acknowledgment signal 162 from the cash register 128 and / or the server 140. The acknowledgment signal 162 can include an indication to unlock the security tag 104 for separation from the merchandise 102. The acknowledgment signal 162 can include an RFID device identifier 241. Alternatively or additionally, after receiving the acknowledgment signal 162, the RFID driver 220 can transmit an interrogation signal to the RFID device 240 to receive a response signal that includes the RFID device identifier 241.

[0047] In some cases, in response to receiving an acknowledgement signal 162, the processor 210, the memory 212, the identification component 144, the wireless component 148, the transceiver 230, and / or the scanner antenna 232 may identify a wireless device 250 associated with the RFID device 240. In one embodiment, the processor 210, the memory 212, the wireless component 148, the transceiver 230, and the scanner antenna 232 may transmit a request to the server 140 via the communication link 154. The request may include the RFID device identifier 241. The server 140 may identify a wireless device identifier 251 associated with the RFID device identifier 241. In response, the server 140 may transmit a response including the wireless device identifier 251 associated with the wireless device 250 to the RFID scanner 112. The RFID scanner 112 may identify the wireless device 250 based on the wireless device identifier 251. In another embodiment, the memory 212 of the RFID scanner 112 may store the association between the RFID device identifier 241 and the wireless device identifier 251. The processor 210 and the memory 212 may identify the wireless device identifier 251 stored in the memory 212 based on the RFID device identifier 241. The RFID scanner 112 may identify the wireless device 250 based on the wireless device identifier 251. Other methods of identifying the wireless device 250 are possible.

[0048] In one embodiment, the processor 210, the memory 212, the wireless component 148, the transceiver 230, and / or the scanner antenna 232 may transmit a wireless signal 164 to the tag antenna 252 of the security tag 104. In response to receiving the wireless signal 164, the wireless device 250 may transmit an enabling signal 170 to enable the controller 290 and / or the locking mechanism 280 to receive a release signal 166 to unlock the locking mechanism 280.

[0049] In some embodiments, the processor 210, the memory 212, the release component 146, and / or the release signal antenna 262 may transmit a release signal 166 to the locking antenna 292 of the security tag 104. In response to receiving the wireless signal 164 before receiving the release signal 166, the controller 290 may transmit an unlocking signal 172 to the locking mechanism 280. The controller 290 may utilize the electrical energy in the release signal 166 to generate the unlocking signal 172. In certain embodiments, the release signal 166 may be a direct current signal or an alternating current signal. The controller 290 may be configured as one or more microprocessors, controllers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware.

[0050] In some embodiments, controller 290 may not be able to receive release signal 166 without first receiving wireless signal 164. In other embodiments, controller 290 may be able to receive release signal 166 without receiving wireless signal 164, but may not be able to transmit unlock signal 172 without first receiving wireless signal 164.

[0051] In alternative embodiments, controller 290 may receive release signal 166 only when the waveform 167 of release signal 166 is substantially the same as a predetermined waveform. In such cases, processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, and / or release signal antenna 262 may transmit release signal 166 having waveform 167 (e.g., amplitude pattern, frequency pattern, phase pattern, modulation, coding, encryption, etc.). Controller 290 may determine that the waveform 167 of release signal 166 is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform. Accordingly, controller 290 may transmit unlock signal 172 to locking mechanism 280 to unlock it.

[0052] Turning Figure 3 , an example of method 300 for unlocking a security tag may be performed by one or more of RFID scanner 112 and / or communication component 142, identification component 144, release component 146, and / or wireless component 148.

[0053] At block 302, method 300 may optionally transmit an interrogation signal to a radio frequency identification (RFID) device of the security tag, where the RFID device is associated with the wireless device of the security tag. For example, as described above, processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, RFID driver 220, and / or scanner coil 222 may transmit an interrogation signal to RFID device 240 of the security tag. Processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, RFID driver 220, and / or scanner coil 222 may be configured to and / or define means for transmitting an interrogation signal to a radio frequency identification (RFID) device of the security tag, where the RFID device is associated with the wireless device of the security tag.

[0054] At block 304, method 300 may optionally receive, in response to an interrogation signal, a response signal from the RFID device that includes an RFID device identifier associated with the RFID device. For example, as described above, processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, RFID driver 220, and / or scanner coil 222 may receive, in response to the interrogation signal, a response signal from RFID device 240 that includes RFID device identifier 241 associated with RFID device 240. Processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, RFID driver 220, and / or scanner coil 222 may be configured to and / or define means for receiving, in response to an interrogation signal, a response signal from an RFID device that includes an RFID device identifier associated with the RFID device.

[0055] In some embodiments, RFID scanner 112 may transmit the RFID device identifier to cash register 128 to identify security tag 104 attached to item 102.

[0056] At block 306, method 300 may receive an acknowledgement signal to unlock the security tag locked to the item, where the acknowledgement signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with the RFID device. For example, as described above, processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may receive acknowledgement signal 162 indicating a sales confirmation of item 102. Acknowledgement signal 162 may include RFID device identifier 241. Acknowledgement signal 162 may indicate to RFID scanner 112 to unlock security tag 104. Processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may be configured to and / or define means for receiving an acknowledgement signal to unlock the security tag locked to the item, where the indication includes an RFID device identifier associated with the RFID device.

[0057] At block 308, method 300 may identify a wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier. For example, as described above, processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, identification component 144, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may identify wireless device 250 associated with RFID device 240 based on RFID device identifier 241. Processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, identification component 144, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may be configured to and / or define means for identifying a wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier.

[0058] At block 310, method 300 may transmit a wireless signal to a wireless device to enable a device controller to receive a release signal for unlocking a security tag from a merchandise. For example, processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may transmit a wireless signal 164 to wireless device 250 to enable controller 290 to receive a release signal 166 for unlocking security tag 104 from merchandise 102. Processor 210, memory 212, communication component 142, wireless component 148, transceiver 230, and / or scanner antenna 232 may be configured to and / or define a component for transmitting a wireless signal to a wireless device to enable a controller to receive a release signal for unlocking a security tag from a merchandise.

[0059] At block 312, method 300 may transmit a release signal to a controller to unlock a security tag from a merchandise. For example, processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, release signal transmitter 260, and / or release signal antenna 262 may transmit a release signal 166 to controller 290 to unlock security tag 104 from merchandise 102. Processor 210, memory 212, release component 146, release signal transmitter 260, and / or release signal antenna 262 may be configured to and / or define a component for transmitting a release signal to a controller to unlock a security tag from a merchandise.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment, RFID scanner 112 may associate RFID device 240 with waveform 167 of release signal 166. Release signal transmitter 260 may transmit release signal 166 having waveform 167 to controller 290 and / or locking mechanism 280 for unlocking locking mechanism 280.

[0061] Go to Figure 4 , an example of method 400 for receiving release signal energy to unlock a security tag may be performed by controller 290 and / or wireless device 250.

[0062] At block 402, method 400 may receive a wireless signal to enable a controller of a security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from a merchandise. For example, wireless device 250 may receive wireless signal 164 via tag antenna 252 to enable controller 290 of security tag 104 to receive release signal 166. Wireless device 250 and / or tag antenna 252 may be configured to and / or define a component for receiving a wireless signal to enable a controller of a security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from a merchandise.

[0063] At block 404, method 400 may send an enable signal to a controller in response to receiving a wireless signal to receive a release signal. For example, wireless device 250 may send enable signal 170 to controller 290 to receive release signal 166. Wireless device 250 may be configured to and / or define components for sending an enable signal to a controller in response to receiving a wireless signal to receive a release signal.

[0064] At block 406, method 400 may receive a release signal. For example, locking mechanism 280 may receive release signal 166 via locking antenna 292. Locking mechanism 280 and / or locking antenna 292 may be configured to and / or define components for receiving a release signal.

[0065] At block 408, method 400 may generate an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of a security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal. For example, controller 290 may generate unlock signal 172 for unlocking locking mechanism 280 of security tag 104. Controller 290 may be configured to and / or define components for generating an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of a security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal.

[0066] At block 410, method 400 may send the unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise. For example, controller 290 may send unlock signal 172 to locking mechanism 280 to separate security tag 104 from merchandise 102. Controller 290 may be configured to and / or define components for sending an unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

[0067] Aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof, and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. In one aspect of the present disclosure, features relate to one or more computer systems capable of performing the functions described herein. Figure 5 An example of such a computer system 500 is shown. In some examples, RFID scanner 112 may be implemented as Figure 5 the computer system 500 shown. RFID scanner 112 may include some or all of the components of computer system 500.

[0068] The computer system 500 includes one or more processors, such as processor 504. The processor 504 is connected to a communication infrastructure 506 (e.g., a communication bus, crossbar, or network). Various software aspects are described with respect to this example computer system. After reading this description, it will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art how to implement various aspects of the present disclosure using other computer systems and / or architectures.

[0069] The computer system 500 may include a display interface 502 that forwards graphics, text, and other data from the communication infrastructure 506 (or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on a display unit 550. The computer system 500 also includes a main memory 508, preferably random access memory (RAM), and may also include an auxiliary memory 510. The auxiliary memory 510 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 512 and / or a removable storage drive 514 representing a floppy disk drive, tape drive, optical disk drive, universal serial bus (USB) flash drive, etc. The removable storage drive 514 reads from and / or writes to a removable storage unit 518 in a well-known manner. The removable storage unit 518 represents a floppy disk, tape, optical disk, USB flash drive, etc. that can be read from and written to by the removable storage drive 514. It should be understood that the removable storage unit 518 contains a computer-usable storage medium having computer software and / or data stored thereon. In some instances, one or more of the main memory 508, auxiliary memory 510, removable storage unit 518, and / or removable storage unit 522 may be non-transitory memory.

[0070] Alternative aspects of the present disclosure may include the auxiliary memory 510 and may include other similar devices for allowing a computer program or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system 500. Such devices may include, for example, a removable storage unit 522 and an interface 520. Examples of such devices may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as an interface found in video game devices) that allows software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 522 to the computer system 500, a removable memory chip (such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or programmable read-only memory (PROM)) and associated socket, and the removable storage unit 522 and interface 520.

[0071] The computer system 500 may also include a communication circuit 524. The communication circuit 524 may permit software and data to be transferred between the computer system 500 and external devices. Examples of the communication circuit 524 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) slot and card, etc. The software and data transferred through the communication circuit 524 are in the form of signals 528, which may be electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or other signals that can be received by the communication circuit 524. These signals 528 are provided to the communication circuit 524 through a communication path (e.g., a channel) 526. This path 526 carries the signals 528 and may be implemented using wires or cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, RF links, and / or other communication channels. In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer usable medium" are used to generally refer to media such as the removable storage unit 518, the hard disk installed in the hard disk drive 512, and the signals 528. These computer program products provide software to the computer system 500. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to such computer program products.

[0072] A computer program (also referred to as computer control logic) is stored in the main memory 508 and / or the auxiliary memory 510. A computer program may also be received through the communication circuit 524. Such a computer program, when executed, enables the computer system 500 to perform the features of aspects of the present disclosure as discussed herein. Specifically, the computer program, when executed, enables the processor 504 to perform the features according to aspects of the present disclosure. Thus, such a computer program represents the controller of the computer system 500.

[0073] In one aspect of the present disclosure in which the method is implemented using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into the computer system 500 using the removable storage drive 514, the hard disk drive 512, or the interface 520. The control logic (software), when executed by the processor 504, causes the processor 504 to perform the functions described herein. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the system is implemented mainly using hardware components such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Implementing a hardware state machine to perform the functions described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art.

[0074] Reference Figure 6 and 7, an example of the security tag 104 described herein can transition from a locked position 600 to an unlocked position 700 in response to receiving an RFID signal at the RFID device to unlock the security tag. For example, the security tag 104 can receive a wireless signal 164 to enable the RFID device 240 to receive a release signal 166. In response to the release signal 166, the security tag 104 can transition from the locked position 600 to the unlocked position 700.

[0075] Reference Figure 8 and 9 , an example of the RFID scanner 112 and an example of the system 900 that includes the security tag 104 and the RFID scanner 112 represent an example implementation of the present disclosure.

[0076] Reference Figure 10 , an example of the method 1000 for receiving release signal energy to unlock the security tag can be performed by the controller 290.

[0077] At 1002, the method 1000 can receive a release signal having a signal waveform. For example, the locking mechanism 280 and / or the controller 290 can receive the release signal 166 through the locking antenna 292. The release signal 166 can have a waveform 167. The controller 290 and / or the locking antenna 292 can be configured to and / or define a component for receiving a release signal having a waveform.

[0078] At 1004, the method 1000 can determine whether the signal waveform is substantially the same as a predetermined waveform. For example, the controller 290 can determine whether the waveform 167 is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform. The controller 290 can be configured to and / or define a component for determining whether the signal waveform is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform.

[0079] At block 1006, the method 1000 can generate an unlock signal for the locking mechanism of the security tag in response to determining that the signal waveform is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal. For example, the controller 290 can generate an unlock signal 172 for the locking mechanism 280 of the security tag 104. The controller 290 can be configured to and / or define a component for generating an unlock signal for the locking mechanism of the security tag in response to determining that the signal waveform is substantially the same as the predetermined waveform, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal.

[0080] At block 1008, method 1000 may send an unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise. For example, controller 290 may send unlock signal 172 to locking mechanism 280 to separate security tag 104 from merchandise 102. Controller 290 may be configured to and / or define a component for sending an unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

[0081] It should be understood that various embodiments of the above-disclosed and other features and functions or alternatives or variations thereof can be combined in many other different systems or applications in a desired manner. Additionally, those skilled in the art may subsequently make various currently unforeseen or unexpected alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements, which are also intended to be covered by the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for unlocking a security tag by a scanner, the method comprising: Receiving a confirmation signal to unlock the security tag detachably locked to a commodity, wherein the confirmation signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with an RFID device of the security tag, and the RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; Identifying the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; Transmitting a wireless signal from the scanner to the RFID device to the wireless device, so that a controller of the RFID device can receive a release signal for unlocking the security tag from the commodity, wherein the controller cannot receive the release signal without previously receiving the wireless signal; And After transmitting the wireless signal, transmitting the release signal from the scanner to the RFID device to the controller to unlock the security tag from the commodity, wherein the release signal is different from the wireless signal.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is a Bluetooth signal, a Wi-Fi signal or a Near Field Communication signal.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein identifying the wireless device includes: Transmitting the RFID device identifier to a server storing an association between the wireless device and the RFID device; And Receiving a wireless device identifier associated with the wireless device, wherein the wireless device identifier is associated with the RFID device identifier.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the wireless device identifier is one of a hardware address of the wireless device or a part of the hardware address of the wireless device, and the RFID device identifier is one of a hardware address of the RFID device or a part of the hardware address of the RFID device.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the energy of the release signal is used to generate an unlocking signal for unlocking the security tag.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is encrypted.

7. A scanner, comprising: A release signal transmitter; A transceiver; A memory storing instructions; And A processor configured to execute the instructions to: Receive a confirmation signal to unlock a security tag detachably locked to a commodity, wherein the confirmation signal includes an RFID device identifier associated with a radio frequency identification (RFID) device of the security tag, and The RFID device is associated with a wireless device of the security tag; Identify the wireless device associated with the RFID device based on the RFID device identifier; Cause the transceiver to transmit a wireless signal from the scanner to the RFID device to the wireless device, so that a controller of the RFID device can receive a release signal for unlocking the security tag from the commodity, wherein the controller cannot receive the release signal without previously receiving the wireless signal; And After transmitting the wireless signal, cause the release signal transmitter to transmit the release signal from the scanner to the RFID device to the controller to unlock the security tag from the merchandise, wherein the release signal is different from the wireless signal.

8. The scanner according to claim 7, wherein the wireless signal is a Bluetooth signal, a Wi-Fi signal, or a Near Field Communication signal.

9. The scanner according to claim 7, wherein, in order to identify the wireless device, the processor is configured to: Transmit the RFID device identifier to a server storing an association between the wireless device and the RFID device; and Receive a wireless device identifier associated with the wireless device, wherein the wireless device identifier is associated with the RFID device identifier.

10. The scanner according to claim 9, wherein the wireless device identifier is one of a hardware address of the wireless device or a part of the hardware address of the wireless device, and the RFID device identifier is one of a hardware address of the RFID device or a part of the hardware address of the RFID device.

11. The scanner according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the energy of the release signal is used to generate an unlock signal for unlocking the security tag.

12. The scanner according to claim 7, wherein the wireless signal is encrypted.

13. A method performed by a security tag, the method comprising: Receiving a wireless signal to enable a controller of the security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from merchandise; Sending an enable signal to the controller in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the release signal; Receiving the release signal; Generating an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Sending the unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the wireless signal is a Bluetooth signal, a Wi-Fi signal, or a Near Field Communication signal.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein the wireless signal is encrypted.

16. A security tag, comprising: A wireless device configured to: Receive a wireless signal to enable a controller of the security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from merchandise; And Send an enable signal to the controller in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the release signal; The controller, configured to: Receive the release signal; Generate an unlock signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlock signal is derived from at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Send the unlock signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise; And The locking mechanism, which is configured to unlock in response to receiving the unlocking signal.

17. The security tag according to claim 16, wherein the wireless device is a Bluetooth device, a Wi-Fi device, or a near field communication device.

18. The security tag according to claim 16, wherein the wireless signal is encrypted.

19. A method performed by a security tag, the method comprising: Receiving a release signal having a signal waveform; Determining whether the signal waveform is the same as a predetermined waveform; Generating an unlocking signal for unlocking the locking mechanism of the security tag in response to determining that the signal waveform is the same as the predetermined waveform, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlocking signal is derived from at least a part of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Sending the unlocking signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

20. A method performed by a security tag, the method comprising: Receiving a wireless signal transmitted by a scanner to enable a controller of the security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from the merchandise, wherein the controller cannot receive the release signal without previously receiving the wireless signal; Sending an enabling signal to the controller in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the release signal; After receiving the wireless signal, receiving the release signal transmitted by the scanner, wherein the release signal is different from the wireless signal; Generating an unlocking signal for unlocking the locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlocking signal is derived from at least a part of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Sending the unlocking signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

21. A security tag, comprising: A wireless device configured to: Receive a wireless signal transmitted by a scanner to enable a controller of the security tag to receive a release signal for separating the security tag from the merchandise, wherein the controller cannot receive the release signal without previously receiving the wireless signal; And Send an enabling signal to the controller in response to receiving the wireless signal to receive the release signal; The controller configured to: After receiving the wireless signal, receive the release signal transmitted by the scanner, wherein the release signal is different from the wireless signal; Generate an unlocking signal for unlocking the locking mechanism of the security tag in response to receiving the release signal, wherein a first electrical energy of the unlocking signal is derived from at least a part of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Send the unlocking signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise; And the locking mechanism, which is configured to unlock in response to receiving the unlocking signal.

22. A method performed by a security tag, the method comprising: Receiving a release signal having a signal waveform transmitted by a scanner; Determining whether the signal waveform is the same as a predetermined waveform; Generating an unlocking signal for unlocking a locking mechanism of the security tag in response to determining that the signal waveform is the same as the predetermined waveform, wherein a first electrical energy source of the unlocking signal is at least a portion of a second electrical energy of the release signal; And Sending the unlocking signal to the locking mechanism to separate the security tag from the merchandise.

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