Variable rfid transmit power adjustment based on ambient environment to enhance tag detection field

Abstract

A method for operating a sensor includes receiving identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located proximate to the sensor. The number of EIDs located in the vicinity of the sensor is determined based on the received identification information. It is determined whether the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold. In response to determining that the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds or is less than any predefined threshold number, transmit power to the sensor is selectively adjusted based on the number of EIDs relative to a first predefined threshold.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. non-provisional application No. 17 / 725,062, filed on April 20, 2022, entitled “VARIABLE RFID TRANSMIT POWERADJUSTMENT BASED ON SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT TO ENHANCE TAG DETECTION FIELD,” which application has been assigned to the assignee of this application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to security tags, such as electronic article monitoring tags, that may be attached to or incorporated into an article. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a method for variable radio frequency identification (RFID) transmit power adjustment based on ambient environment to enhance tag detection. Background Art

[0004] Electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems are commonly used in retail stores and other locations to prevent the unauthorized removal of merchandise from a protected area (e.g., a retail store). Typically, a detection system is deployed at the exit of the protected area and includes one or more transmitters and antennas ("pedestals") capable of generating an electromagnetic field at the exit (called an "interrogation zone"). The article to be protected is affixed with a security tag (such as an RFID and / or an acousto-magnetic (AM) tag), also known as an EAS tag and electronic identification device (EID), which, when activated, generates a response signal when passing through this interrogation zone. The antenna and receiver in the same or another "pedestal" detect this response signal and sound an alarm.

[0005] Additionally, tags permanently hidden / embedded in goods can be used for other purposes, such as, but not limited to, circular economy applications (new business models like renting clothes, or selling second-hand clothes of known authenticity and context). In many cases, the same tag can be used for multiple purposes: security (anti-theft), circular economy, supply chain management, and inventory management.

[0006] One disadvantage of tagging merchandise with EAS tags and other security labels to prevent theft is that the performance of security tag detection is significantly degraded when a large number of security tags are located in close proximity to the EAS system. In a retail shopping environment, items with security tags are often moved to different locations within a retail store. For example, retail stores often reposition items at the front of the store, such as near an exit, to attract customers.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for improved methods for operating security tags. Summary of the invention

[0008] The following briefly summarizes one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of these aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all expected aspects, and is neither intended to identify the key or important elements of all aspects, nor to define the scope of any or all aspects. Its only purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description presented later.

[0009] The present disclosure provides systems, apparatus, and methods for automatically adjusting RFID reader transmit power based on environmental changes.

[0010] In one aspect, a method for operating a sensor includes receiving identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located in proximity to the sensor. Determining a number of EIDs located in proximity to the sensor based on the received identification information. Determining whether the number of EIDs located in proximity to the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold. In response to determining that the number of EIDs located in proximity to the sensor exceeds the first predefined threshold, selectively adjusting a transmission power to the sensor based on the number of EIDs relative to the first predefined threshold.

[0011] In another aspect, a system for operating a sensor includes a hardware processor and a memory including instructions that, when executed by the hardware processor, cause the system to receive identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located near the sensor; determine a number of EIDs located near the sensor based on the received identification information; determine whether the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold; and in response to determining that the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds the first predefined threshold, selectively adjust a transmission power to the sensor based on the number of EIDs relative to the first predefined threshold.

[0012] To accomplish the foregoing and related purposes, one or more aspects include the features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the accompanying drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative features of one or more aspects. However, these features are indicative of only some of the various ways in which the principles of the various aspects may be employed, and this description is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The disclosed aspects will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate and not to limit the disclosed aspects, wherein like numerals represent like elements, and wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 is a diagram of an example architecture of a system according to some current aspects;

[0015] Figure 2is an illustration of an example architecture for security labels according to some current aspects;

[0016] Figure 3 is a diagram of an example architecture of a tag reader according to some current aspects;

[0017] Figure 4 is a flowchart of an example method of operating a sensor according to aspects of the present disclosure; and

[0018] Figure 5 is a block diagram of various hardware components and other features of an example EAS system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configuration in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known components may be shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring these concepts.

[0020] Aspects of the present disclosure provide methods for automatically adjusting RFID reader transmit power based on changes in RFID tag environments. The power used for signal transmission can be increased or decreased based on visible RFID tags tracked by a single or multiple RFID reader EAS systems. Moreover, such power adjustments can control the number of RFID tags visible to the RFID EAS system. In some aspects, the disclosed methods have advantages over fixed power RFID EAS systems in various environments, where the performance of fixed power RFID EAS systems can be degraded when a large number of RFID tags are located in close proximity to the RFID EAS system.

[0021] Turning now to the drawings, example aspects are depicted with reference to one or more components described herein, where components in dashed lines may be optional.

[0022] Reference now Figure 1 , provides a schematic diagram of an illustrative system 100 useful for understanding the present solution. The present solution is described herein with respect to a retail store environment. The present solution is not limited in this regard and can be used in other environments. For example, the present solution can be used in distribution centers, factories, and other commercial environments. It is worth noting that the present solution can be used in any environment where it is necessary to locate and / or track objects and / or items.

[0023] The system 100 is generally configured to allow for (a) improved inventory counting and monitoring of objects and / or items located within a facility, and (b) an improved customer experience. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , system 100 includes a retail store facility (“RSF”) 128 in which display equipment 1021-102 is deployed. M The display equipment is used to display objects (or items) 1101-110 to customers of the retail store. N , 1161-116 X The display equipment may include, but is not limited to, shelves, racks, product display cabinets, promotional displays, fixtures, and / or equipment securing areas of the RSF 128. The RSF 128 may also include emergency equipment (not shown), checkout counters, cameras, people counters, and conventional EAS systems that are well known in the art and therefore will not be described herein.

[0024] At least one tag reader 120 is provided to assist in counting and tracking objects 1101-110 within the RSF 128. N , 1161-116 X The tag reader 120 includes an RFID reader configured to read an RFID tag.

[0025] RFID tag 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Fixed to objects 1101-110 respectively N , 1161-116 X RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Dual technology tags having EAS and RFID capabilities as described herein may alternatively or additionally be included.

[0026] It is noteworthy that tag readers 120 are strategically placed at known locations within RSF 128, for example, at exits / entrances. By correlating the RFID tag readings of the tag readers with the known locations of the tag readers within RSF 128, it is possible to determine the locations of objects 1101, ..., 110 N 、1161、....、116 X Approximate location within RSF 128. Known coverage areas of tag readers also facilitate object location determination. Thus, RFID tag read information and tag reader location information are stored in data repository 126. This information can be stored in data repository 126 using server 124 and network 144 (e.g., a wired network, i.e., an intranet and / or the Internet, and / or a wireless network).

[0027] System 100 may include one or more mobile communication devices ("MCDs") 130. MCD 130 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant, and / or a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch). According to some examples, MCD 130 has installed thereon a software application operable to: facilitate providing various information 134-138 to individual 152 and / or facilitate a purchase transaction.

[0028] The MCD 130 is generally configured to provide visual and / or audible output of item-level information 134 , accessory information 136 , and / or system performance information 142 .

[0029] The MCD 130 may also be configured to read barcodes and / or RFID tags. Information obtained from reading barcodes and / or RFID tags may be transmitted from the MCD 130 to the server 124 via the network 144. Similarly, the stored information 134-138 is also provided to the MCD 130 from the server 124 via the network 144. The network 144 may include an intranet and / or the Internet.

[0030] Server 124 may be located locally at facility 128 (eg, Figure 1 ) or located remotely from facility 128. It should be understood that server 124 is configured to: N , 1181-118 X and / or MCD 130 to write data and read data from it; using the data repository 126, RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X and / or item level information 134 and / or accessory information 136 obtained by MCD 130; perform system monitoring based on tag read information, MCD tracking information, and / or information 134-138; perform image processing using images captured by camera(s) 148; and / or determine the RFID tags 1121-112 in RSF 128 using beacon(s) 146, tag reader 120, or other device with known location and / or antenna pattern. N , 1181-118 X and / or the location of MCD 130 .

[0031] In some examples, one or more beacons 146 transmitting RF signals other than RFID interrogation signals (e.g., non-RFID second RF signals) are placed to cover an area of ​​interest that is also covered by tag readers 120 placed to cover the RFID interrogation zone, for example, at a portal of a retail facility 128. The system 100 can detect and derive any number of relevant indicators based on the second RF signals. The response of the tag 112 / 118 to the second RF signal is analyzed and compared to data collected from the concurrent RFID signal response as the tag passes through the portal.

[0032] The server 124 facilitates updating the information 134-138 output from the MCD 130. Such information updates may be performed periodically, in response to instructions received from a colleague (e.g., a retail store employee 132), in response to detected changes in item levels 134, accessories 136, and / or system performance information 138, in response to detection of an individual in proximity to an RFID tag, and / or in response to any motion or movement of the RFID tag. For example, if a certain product is put on sale, the sale price of the product is transmitted to the MCD 130 via the network 144 and / or the RFID tag 112 / 118. The sale price is then output from the MCD 130. The present solution is not limited to the details of this example.

[0033] Although Figure 1 A single MCD 130 and / or a single server 124 is shown, but the present solution is not limited in this regard. It is contemplated that more than one computing device may be implemented. Furthermore, the present solution is not limited to Figure 1 An illustrative system architecture is described.

[0034] During operation of the system 100, the content displayed on the display screen of the MCD 130 is dynamically controlled based on various tag or item-related and / or customer-related information (e.g., a mobile device identifier, a location of the mobile device in the RSF 128, and / or a customer loyalty level). The tag or item-level information 134 includes, but is not limited to, first information indicating that the RFID tag 112 / 118 is in motion or that the object is being handled by the individual 152, second information indicating the current location of the RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or the MCD 130, third information indicating an accessory or associated product of the object to which the mobile RFID tag is coupled, and / or fourth information indicating a relative position of the accessory to the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or a relative position of the associated product to the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118. The first, second, and fourth information may be derived based on sensor data generated by a sensor local to the RFID tag. Thus, the RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 XOne or more sensors are included to detect its current location, detect any individuals in its vicinity, and / or detect any motion or movement thereof. Sensors include, but are not limited to, inertial measurement units (“IMUs”), vibration sensors, light sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, proximity sensors, microphones, and / or beacon communication devices. The third information may be stored as information 136 in the RFID tag local or remote data repository 126.

[0035] In one aspect, the performance monitoring module 140 of the server 124 facilitates the collection of information regarding the performance of the RFID system. In certain aspects, such performance monitoring can be accomplished in part by collecting information from a plurality of reader stations in the RFID system. Once this information is collected, the performance monitoring module 140 can analyze the information to statistically correlate system performance with the collected information (including time). One of the monitored environmental parameters can include a count of RFID tags 112 / 118 within an interrogation zone of each tag reader 120. By identifying the relationship between RFID system performance and environmental parameters, solutions can be tailored to mitigate their impact.

[0036] The performance monitoring module 140 can be configured to send multiple control signals to implement (one or more) corrective actions to improve EAS RFID system performance, and / or report processed analysis results to external systems or human operators. For example, a control signal can be coupled to one of the tag readers 120 to allow the performance monitoring module 140 to adjust the power level of the RF signal received by the tag reader 120. On the one hand, the power level of the tag reader 120 can be reduced, for example, to reduce unintentional interference with other readers and avoid reading tags that are unintentionally located within the reader's interrogation zone. On the other hand, the power level of the reader can be increased to increase the likelihood of reading all tags within the interrogation zone of the tag reader 120. Advantageously, the data collected by the performance monitoring module 140 can be analyzed to determine whether the power level should be increased or decreased to improve RFID system performance. On the one hand, the performance monitoring module 140 can keep track of the number of RFID tags located within the interrogation zone of each tag reader 120.

[0037] The performance monitoring module 140 may also be coupled to the data repository 126. In this example, the data repository 126 may provide a repository for data collected by the performance monitoring module 140, such as the system performance information 138. When processing product or performance-related data associated with a particular tag, the performance monitoring module 140 may store the processed information in a manner that uniquely associates the information with a stored tag identifier, such as an EPC.

[0038] Reference now Figure 2, which illustrates an illustrative architecture of a security tag 200. RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X The same or similar to the security tag 200. Therefore, the discussion of the security tag 200 is sufficient to understand Figure 1 RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X In some embodiments, security tag 200 can be configured to perform operations such as, but not limited to, (a) minimizing power usage to extend the life of a power source (e.g., a battery or capacitor), (b) minimizing conflicts with other tags so that tags of interest are visible at a given time, (c) optimizing useful information within an inventory system (e.g., communicating useful change information to a tag reader), and / or (d) optimizing local feature functionality.

[0039] The security tag 200 may include Figure 2 More or fewer components are shown. However, the components shown are sufficient to disclose illustrative aspects of implementing the present solution. Some or all of the components of the security tag 200 may be implemented in hardware, software, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The hardware includes, but is not limited to, one or more electronic circuits. The electronic circuit(s) may include passive components (e.g., capacitors and resistors) and active components (e.g., processors) that are arranged and / or programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein.

[0040] Figure 2 The hardware architecture of the present invention represents a security tag 200 configured to facilitate improved inventory management / monitoring and customer experience. In this regard, the security tag 200 is configured to allow communication with an external device (e.g., Figure 1 The tag reader 120, Figure 1 Beacon 146, Figure 1 A mobile communication device ("MCD") 130 and / or Figure 1 The wireless communication technology may include, but is not limited to, RFID technology, near field communication ("NFC") technology, and / or short range communication ("SRC") technology. For example, one or more of the following wireless communication technologies are used: radio frequency ("RF") communication technology; Bluetooth technology (including low-power Bluetooth (LE)); WiFi technology; beacon technology; and / or LiFi technology. Each of the wireless communication technologies listed is well known in the art and will not be described in detail herein. Any known or soon-to-be-known wireless communication technology or other wireless communication technology may be used herein without limitation.

[0041] Figure 2The components 206-214 shown in the figure may be collectively referred to as the communication-enabled device 204 herein, and include a memory 208 and a clock / timer 214. The memory 208 may be a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory 208 may include, but is not limited to, a random access memory ("RAM"), a dynamic RAM ("DRAM"), a static RAM ("SRAM"), a read-only memory ("ROM"), and a flash memory. The memory 208 may also include a non-secure memory and / or a secure memory.

[0042] In some scenarios, the communication-enabled device 204 includes a software defined radio ("SDR"). SDRs are well known in the art and will not be described in detail herein. However, it should be noted that the SDR can be programmatically assigned any communication protocol selected by the user (e.g., RFID, WiFi, LiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, Nest, ZWave, Zigbee, etc.). The communication protocol is part of the device firmware and resides in the memory 208. It is worth noting that the communication protocol can be downloaded to the device at any given time. The initial / default role (being an RFID, WiFi, LiFi, etc. tag) can be assigned when it is deployed. If the user desires to use another protocol at a later time, the user can remotely change the communication protocol of the deployed security tag 200. In the event of a problem, firmware updates can also be performed remotely.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown in , the communication-enabled device 204 includes at least one antenna 202, 216 for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device via wireless communication technology (e.g., RFID technology, NFC technology, SRC technology, and / or beacon technology). The antenna 202, 216 is configured to receive signals from an external device and / or transmit signals generated by the communication-enabled device 204. The antenna 202, 216 may include a near-field or far-field antenna. Each antenna may include, but is not limited to, a chip antenna or a loop antenna.

[0044] The communication-enabled device 204 also includes a communication device (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) 206. Communication devices (e.g., a transceiver or transmitter) are well known in the art and will not be described herein. However, it should be understood that the communication device 206 generates and transmits signals (e.g., RF carrier signals) to external devices, and receives signals (e.g., RF signals) transmitted from external devices. In this manner, the communication-enabled device 204 facilitates the detection of items (e.g., Figure 1 Registration, identification, positioning and / or tracking of an object 110 or 116 in the system.

[0045] The communication-enabled device 204 is configured such that it: communicates (transmits and receives) according to a time slot communication scheme; and selectively enables / disables / bypasses a communication device (e.g., a transceiver) or at least one communication operation based on the output of the motion sensor 250. In some scenarios, the communication-enabled device 204: selects one or more time slots from a plurality of time slots based on the tag's unique identifier 224 (e.g., an electronic product code ("EPC")); and / or determines a window of time ("WOT") during which the communication device (e.g., a transceiver) 206 is to be turned on or at least one communication operation is enabled after the motion sensor 250 detects motion. The WOT may be determined based on environmental conditions (e.g., humidity, temperature, time of day, relative distance to a positioning device (e.g., a beacon or positioning tag), etc.) and / or system conditions (e.g., traffic volume, occurrence of interference, etc.). In this regard, the security tag 200 may include Figure 2 Additional sensors not shown.

[0046] The communication-enabled device 204 facilitates automatic and dynamic modification of the item-level information 226 output from the security tag 200 in response to certain triggering events. Triggering events may include, but are not limited to, the tag arriving at a particular facility (e.g., Figure 1 RSF 128), arrival of a tag in a particular country or geographic region, date of occurrence, time of occurrence, price change, and / or receipt of a user instruction.

[0047] The item-level information 226 and the unique identifier (“ID”) 224 of the security tag 200 may be stored in the memory 208 of the communication-enabled device 204 and / or transmitted to other external devices (e.g., a wireless communication device) via the communication device (e.g., transceiver) 206 and / or the interface 240 (e.g., an Internet protocol or cellular network interface). Figure 1 The tag reader 120, Figure 1 Beacon 146, Figure 1 MCD 130 and / or Figure 1 For example, the communication-enabled device 204 may transmit information specifying a timestamp, a unique identifier of an item, an item description, an item price, a currency symbol, and / or location information to the external device. The external device (e.g., the server 124 or the MCD 130) may then store the information in a database (e.g., Figure 1 data repository 126) and / or use the information for various purposes.

[0048] The communication-enabled device 204 also includes a controller 210 (e.g., a CPU) and an input / output device 212. The controller 210 can execute instructions 222 that implement a method for facilitating inventory counting and management. In this regard, the controller 210 includes a processor (or a logic circuit system that responds to instructions), and the memory 208 includes a computer-readable storage medium on which is stored one or more instruction sets 222 (e.g., software code) configured to implement one or more of the methods, processes, or functions described herein. The instructions 222 may also reside completely or at least partially within the controller 210 during the execution of the instructions by the security tag 200. The memory 208 and the controller 210 may also constitute a machine-readable medium. The term "machine-readable medium" as used herein refers to a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers) storing one or more instruction sets 222. The term "machine-readable medium" as used herein also refers to any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying an instruction set 222 for execution by the security tag 200 and causing the security tag 200 to perform any one or more of the methods of the present disclosure.

[0049] The input / output devices may include, but are not limited to, a display (e.g., an LCD display and / or an active matrix display), a speaker, a keypad, and / or light emitting diodes. The display is used to present the item level information 226 in a text format and / or a graphical format. Similarly, the speaker may be used to output the item level information 226 in an audible format. The speaker and / or light emitting diode may be used to output an alarm to draw a person's attention to the security tag 200 (e.g., when its motion has been detected) and / or to inform a person of a particular pricing status of the tagged item (e.g., an on sale status).

[0050] The clock / timer 214 is configured to determine the date, time, and / or expiration of a predefined time period. Techniques for determining these listed items are well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or to-be-known techniques for determining these listed items may be used herein without limitation.

[0051] The security tag 200 also includes an optional positioning module 230. The positioning module 230 is generally configured to determine the geographic location of the tag at any given time. For example, in some scenarios, the positioning module 230 uses global positioning system ("GPS") technology and / or Internet-based local time acquisition technology. The present solution is not limited to the details of this example. Any known or to-be-known technology for determining geographic location can be used herein, including, but not limited to, relative positioning within a facility or structure.

[0052] The security tag 200 may also include a power source 236, an optional electronic article surveillance ("EAS") component 244, and / or a passive / active / semi-passive RFID component 246. Each of the listed components 236, 244, 246 is well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or to-be-known battery, EAS component, and / or RFID component may be used herein without limitation. The power source 236 may include, but is not limited to, a rechargeable battery and / or a capacitor.

[0053] As described herein, in some aspects, the EAS component 244 deployed in the security tag 200 can be any type of article monitoring mechanism, or a combination thereof. For example, in one aspect, the EAS component 244 can be an EAS sensor and / or an RFID sensor. In some additional aspects, the EAS component 244 can include more than one sensor of the same type or different types. For example, in one non-limiting aspect, the security tag 200 can have dual technology functionality (RFID and EAS).

[0054] In one aspect, the EAS sensor can be a sensor of the type used in an acousto-magnetic (AM) system. In one non-limiting aspect, for example, a detector in an AM system transmits a periodic pulse train at 58 KHz, which causes a detectable resonant response in an AM tag. Security tags in a 58 KHz system can also be implemented as circuits that resonate at 58 kHz. In one aspect, the EAS sensor to be incorporated into the security tag 200 can have a small and substantially flat form factor and can have a degree of flexibility.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown in , the security tag 200 also includes an energy harvesting circuit 232 and a power management circuit 234 for ensuring continued operation of the security tag 200 without changing the rechargeable power source (e.g., a battery). In some scenarios, the energy harvesting circuit 232 is configured to collect energy from one or more sources (e.g., heat, light, vibration, magnetic field, and / or RF energy) and generate a relatively small amount of output power from the harvested energy. By using multiple sources for harvesting, the device can continue to charge even though the energy source has been exhausted. Energy harvesting circuits are well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or to-be-known energy harvesting circuit may be used herein without limitation.

[0056] As described above, the security tag 200 may also include a motion sensor 250. Motion sensors are well known in the art and will not be described herein. Any known or to-be-known motion sensor may be used herein without limitation. For example, the motion sensor 250 includes, but is not limited to, a vibration sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a linear motion sensor, a passive infrared ("PIR") sensor, a tilt sensor, and / or a rotation sensor.

[0057] The motion sensor 250 is communicatively coupled to the controller 210 so that when the tag motion is detected, it can notify the controller 210. The motion sensor 250 also transmits sensor data to the controller 210. The sensor data is processed by the controller 210 to determine whether the motion belongs to the type of triggering activation or at least one communication operation of the communication device (e.g., transceiver) 206. For example, the sensor data can be compared with the stored motion / gesture data 228 to determine whether there is a match between the two. More specifically, the motion / gesture pattern specified by the sensor data can be compared with multiple motion / gesture patterns specified by the stored motion / gesture data 228. The multiple motion / gesture patterns can include, but are not limited to: a motion pattern of walking, a motion pattern of running, a motion pattern of vehicle transportation, a motion pattern of vibration caused by equipment or machinery close to the tag (e.g., air conditioning or fan), a gesture of requesting help, a gesture of obtaining additional product information, and / or a gesture of product purchase. The type of movement (e.g., vibration or being carried) is then determined based on which stored motion / gesture data matches the sensor data. This feature of the present solution allows security tag 200 to selectively enable communication device 206 (eg, transceiver) or at least one communication operation only when the tag's position within the facility actually changes (eg, and not when a fan causes the tag to simply vibrate).

[0058] In some scenarios, the security tag 200 may also be configured to enter a sleep state in which at least the triggering of communication operations by the motion sensor is disabled. This may be desirable, for example, in a scenario in which the security tag 200 is being shipped or transported from a distributor to a customer. In those or other scenarios, the security tag 200 may also be configured to enter a sleep state in response to its continued detection of motion within a given time period. The tag may transition from its sleep state in response to the expiration of a defined time period, the tag receiving a control signal from an external device, and / or the tag not moving for a period of time.

[0059] Power management circuit 234 is generally configured to control power to the components of security tag 200. In the event that all storage and harvesting resources are depleted to the point where security tag 200 is about to enter a shutdown / power-off state, power management circuit 234 may cause an alarm to be sent from security tag 200 to a remote device (e.g., Figure 1In response to the alert, the remote device may notify a colleague (e.g., Figure 1 store employee) so that he or she can investigate why security tag 200 is no longer charging and / or staying charged.

[0060] The power management circuit 234 is also capable of redirecting the energy source to the electronics of the security tag 200 based on the status of the energy source. For example, if the harvested energy is sufficient to operate the functions of the security tag 200, then the power management circuit 234 confirms that all of the storage sources of the security tag 200 are fully charged so that the electronic components of the security tag 200 can be operated directly from the harvested energy. This ensures that the security tag 200 always has energy stored in the event that the harvesting source(s) disappear or harvest less energy due to reasons such as a drop in RF, light, or vibration power levels. If a sudden drop in any of the energy sources is detected, the power management circuit 234 can cause an alarm condition to be sent from the security tag 200 to a remote device (e.g., Figure 1 At this point, an investigation may be required into the cause of the alarm. Thus, the remote device may notify a colleague (e.g., Figure 1 store employee) so that he or she can investigate the problem. It could be that other merchandise is obscuring the harvest source or that items have been stolen.

[0061] This solution is not limited to Figure 2 The security tag 200 may have any architecture as long as it can perform the functions and operations described herein. For example, Figure 2 All of the components shown in can include a single device (e.g., an integrated circuit ("IC")). Alternatively, some of the components can include a first tag element (e.g., a commercial off-the-shelf ("COTS") tag), while the remaining components include a second tag element communicatively coupled to the first tag element. The second tag element can provide auxiliary functions to the first tag element (e.g., motion sensing, etc.). The second tag element can also control the operating state of the first tag element. For example, the second tag element can selectively (a) enable and disable one or more features / operations of the first tag element (e.g., transceiver operation), (b) couple an antenna to the first tag element or decouple it from the first tag element, (c) bypass at least one communication device or operation, and / or (d) cause the operating state of the first tag element to change (e.g., cause the first tag element to transition between a power saving mode and a non-power saving mode). In some scenarios, the operating state change can be achieved by changing the binary value of at least one state bit (e.g., from 0 to 1, or vice versa) to cause the security tag 200 to perform certain communication control operations. Additionally or alternatively, a switch can be actuated to create a closed or open circuit. The present solution is not limited in this respect.

[0062] In some examples, the security tag 200 includes an RFID subsystem, such as the communication-enabled device 204 described above, operable to receive an RFID interrogation signal and respond with an RFID response. Such a security tag 200 includes a non-RFID RF subsystem, also incorporated into the communication-enabled device 204, operable to receive the non-RFID RF signal and respond by wirelessly indicating that the non-RFID subsystem has received the non-RFID RF signal. In some such examples, the non-RFID subsystem responds to the non-RFID RF subsystem receiving the non-RFID RF signal by one of the following: allowing the RFID subsystem to respond to the RFID interrogation signal with an RFID response only if the non-RFID RF subsystem concurrently receives the non-RFID RF signal; supplementing the RFID response with at least one information element indicating that the non-RFID RF subsystem has received the non-RFID RF signal; and transmitting the non-RFID response separately. In some such examples, the non-RFID RF subsystem is a personal area network (PAN) signal. In some such examples, the PAN is a Bluetooth PAN.

[0063] Figure 3 The hardware architecture of FIG. 1 is a diagram of a representative tag reader 300 configured to facilitate RSF (e.g., Figure 1 RFID tag reader 300 is the same as or similar to tag reader 120. Therefore, a discussion of tag reader 300 is sufficient to understand the present invention. Figure 1 In this regard, the tag reader 300 includes an RF-enabled device 350 for allowing communication with an external device (e.g., Figure 1 RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X ) to exchange data. Figure 3 The components 304 - 316 shown in may be collectively referred to herein as an RF enabled device 350 , and may include a power source 312 (eg, a battery) or be connected to an external power source (eg, an AC mains).

[0064] RF-enabled device 350 includes an antenna 302 for allowing data to be exchanged with an external device via RF technology (e.g., RFID technology or other RF-based technology). The external device may include Figure 1 RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 XIn this case, antenna 302 is configured to transmit an RF carrier signal (e.g., an interrogation signal) to the listed external device, and / or to transmit a data response signal (e.g., an authentication reply signal or an RFID response signal) generated by RF-enabled device 350. In this regard, RF-enabled device 350 includes RF transceiver 308. In one aspect, RF transceiver 308 receives an RF signal including information from a transmitting device and forwards it to logic controller 310 to extract the information therefrom.

[0065] The extracted information can be used to determine facilities (e.g. Figure 1 The logic controller 310 may also determine the presence, location, and / or type of movement of an RFID tag within the RSF 128 of the RFID tag. Thus, the logic controller 310 may store the extracted information in the memory 304 and execute an algorithm using the extracted information. For example, the logic controller 310 may correlate the tag reading with the beacon reading to determine the location of the RFID tag within the facility. The logic controller 310 may also use the sensor data received from the RFID tag to perform pattern recognition operations and comparison operations between the recognized pattern and the pre-stored pattern. The logic controller 310 may also select a time slot from a plurality of time slots based on a unique identifier of the tag (e.g., EPC) and transmit information specifying the selected time slot to the corresponding RFID tag. The logic controller 310 may additionally determine a WOT during which a communication device (e.g., transceiver) or (one or more) operations of a given RFID tag are turned on and transmitted to the given RFID tag when motion is detected therefrom. The WOT may be determined based on environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, time of day, etc.) and / or system conditions (e.g., traffic volume, interference occurrence, etc.). Other operations performed by the logic controller 310 will be apparent from the following discussion.

[0066] It is worth noting that the memory 304 can be a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory 304 can include, but is not limited to, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, ROM, and flash memory. The memory 304 can also include non-secure memory and / or secure memory. As used herein, the phrase "non-secure memory" refers to a memory configured to store data in plain text form. As used herein, the phrase "secure memory" refers to a memory configured to store data in encrypted form and / or a memory having or deployed in a secure or tamper-resistant housing.

[0067] The instructions 322 are stored in the memory for execution by the RF-enabled device 350 and cause the RF-enabled device 350 to perform any one or more of the methods of the present disclosure. The instructions 322 are generally operable to facilitate determining whether there are RFID tags within the facility, where the RFID tags are located within the facility, which RFID tags are in motion at any given time, and which RFID tags are also in the area of ​​a second RF signal (e.g., a Bluetooth beacon or NFC or other SRC system).

[0068] In general, the simultaneous presence of a large number of RFID tags in the vicinity of the tag reader 120 can negatively impact the performance of the system by minimizing the detection of RFID tags. The tag reader 120 needs to expend a significant amount of effort to identify each RFID tag in its interrogation zone and to evaluate the information provided by these RFID tags, which can negatively impact the performance of the EAS system. In one aspect, the number of RFID tags located in the vicinity of the tag reader 120 can be determined by the performance monitoring module 140 based on the identification information received from each RFID tag. In one aspect, the determined number can be tracked by the performance monitoring module 140 as a global parameter of the EAS system.

[0069] In one aspect, to avoid performance degradation of the EAS system, the power level of the signal received by the RF transceiver 308 can be selectively adjusted by the performance monitoring module 140 so as to keep the number of tracked RFID tags within a certain range (e.g., not exceeding a predetermined threshold). In some embodiments, the tag reader 120 can include a sensor door assembly, which includes a door of the RSF 128 that can be moved between an open position that allows items (e.g., objects 110 / 116) to pass along a path and a closed position that prevents items from passing along the path. The sensor door assembly can be associated with one or more RFID tag readers 120. In one aspect, the adjusted transmit power level can be applied to the entire sensor door. Alternatively, the transmit power to each tag reader 120 can be selectively adjusted in response to a signal received from the performance monitoring module 140.

[0070] In one aspect, the selective power adjustment described above controls the number of RFID tags visible to the RFID EAS system. As used herein, the term "visible RFID tag" refers to one or more tags placed near the tag reader 120 (e.g., within a so-called interrogation zone). When placed near the tag reader 120, the tag reader 120 can interrogate each of the RFID tags to retrieve matching tag data. In one aspect, automatically reducing power can reduce the number of tags visible to the tag reader 120, which can help detect RFID tags moving through the system and can reduce false alarms. In the case where all RFID tags are relatively far from the tag reader 120 (e.g., outside the interrogation zone), the transmit power can be automatically increased to maximize RFID tag detection of difficult-to-read or hidden tags moving through the RFID EAS system.

[0071] In general, merchandise is often rearranged within a retail establishment. For example, some articles for sale may be placed at or near a point of purchase location. Each of these articles may be attached with an RFID tag. If the tag reader 120 is located, for example, 2 meters away, it may substantially continuously interrogate the RFID tags attached to the articles for sale, which may prevent detection of other RFID tags near the tag reader 120. In one aspect, the RFID EAS system may be configured to reduce the transmit power in order to optimize system performance. It should be noted that in the above-mentioned scenario, once the article for sale moves away from the tag reader 120, the transmit power may be automatically increased back to the previous level to optimize the performance of the system.

[0072] As mentioned above, Figure 1 The server 124 shown in FIG. 1 can host a performance monitoring module 140 that can collect information from the RFID EAS system and other sources. The collected information can be analyzed by the performance monitoring module 140 or a human operator. One purpose of analyzing the collected information is to identify opportunities to improve the performance of the RFID EAS system.

[0073] In one aspect, the performance monitoring module 140 can be configured to automatically adjust the power level to continuously optimize the performance of the EAS RFID system based on the collected performance data, such as, but not limited to, the number of RFID tags located within the interrogation zone of each tag reader 120. In one aspect, the desired range of the transmitted RF signal can be configurable based on the environment in which the RFID EAS system is deployed (e.g., the layout of the RSF 128) and / or based on the performance parameters of the individual tag readers 120 employed by the RFID EAS system.

[0074] In one aspect, the performance monitoring module 140 can adjust the power level based on other metrics. In one aspect, the power level can be adjusted based on the number of false positives detected, based on the number of reads by each tag reader 120, based on the signal-to-noise ratio, and other tracked performance metrics that can be included in the system performance information 138.

[0075] In one aspect, corrective actions, such as transmission signal power adjustments, can be performed on a regularly scheduled basis or in response to an alarm condition (such as when a monitored value exceeds a predetermined threshold limit). For example, the performance monitoring module 140 may include a scheduler module that is configured to automatically perform power adjustments based on a predetermined schedule. In addition, if a scheduled increase in the power level of a particular tag reader 120 would cause interference to nearby readers, the performance monitoring module 140 may also restrict the reader from multiplexing, i.e., remaining silent while another reader is operating. Although this may reduce the throughput of merchandise, RFID performance levels can be maintained while retaining the benefits of RFID tracking.

[0076] Figure 4 is a flow chart of an example method for operating a sensor according to aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 4 Flowchart reference Figure 1-3 .

[0077] At 402, the performance monitoring module 140 may receive identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located near the sensor. In one aspect, the one or more EIDs may include one or more RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X , and the sensor may include a tag reader 120. In addition, the performance monitoring module 140 may use (one or more) beacons 146, tag readers 120, or other devices with known locations and / or antenna patterns to determine the RFID tags 1121-112 in the RSF 128. N , 1181-118 X and / or the location of the MCD 130. RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Fixed to objects 1101-110 respectively N , 1161-116 X As described above. RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Alternatively or additionally, dual technology tags having EAS and RFID functionality as described herein may be included. At least one tag reader 120 is provided to assist in counting and tracking objects 1101-110 within the RSF 128.N , 1161-116 X The tag reader 120 includes an RFID reader configured to read RFID tags. By correlating the RFID tag readings of the tag reader with the known location of the tag reader within the RSF 128, it is possible to determine the location of the objects 1101, ..., 110 N , 1161, ...., 116 X Approximate location within RSF 128. The known coverage area of ​​the tag reader also facilitates object location determination. Thus, RFID tag read information and tag reader location information are stored in data repository 126.

[0078] At 404, the performance monitoring module 140 may determine the number of EIDs (e.g., RFID tags 112 / 118) located in the vicinity of the sensor (e.g., tag reader 120) based on the received identification information and based on the information retrieved from the data repository 126. In this step, the performance monitoring module 140 may utilize, for example, tag or item level information 134. The tag or item level information 134 includes, but is not limited to, first information indicating that the RFID tag 112 / 118 is in motion or the object is being handled by the individual 152, second information indicating the current location of the RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or the MCD 130, third information indicating the accessory or associated product of the object to which the mobile RFID tag is coupled, and / or fourth information indicating the relative position of the accessory to the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118 and / or the relative position of the associated product to the mobile RFID tag 112 / 118. The first, second, and fourth information may be derived based on sensor data generated by sensors local to the RFID tags. Thus, the RFID tags 1121-112 N , 1181-118 X Includes one or more sensors to detect its current location, detect any individuals in its vicinity, and / or detect any motion or movement thereof.

[0079] Next, the performance monitoring module 140 may compare the calculated number of EIDs (e.g., RFID tags 112 / 118) to a predetermined threshold at 406. In one aspect, if the number of EIDs is greater than the predetermined threshold, the performance monitoring module 140 may reduce the power level of one or more individual tag readers 120 (at 408), for example, to reduce unintentional interference with other readers and to avoid reading tags that are unintentionally located within the interrogation zone of the reader. In another aspect, the reader power level may be increased (at 408) by the performance monitoring module 140 to increase the likelihood of reading all tags within the interrogation zone of the tag reader 120. Advantageously, whether the power level should be increased or decreased to improve RFID system performance may be determined by analyzing the system performance information 138 collected by the performance monitoring module 140.

[0080] In other words, a method 400 for operating a sensor includes receiving identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located near the sensor. Determining a number of EIDs located near the sensor based on the received identification information. Determining whether the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold. In response to determining that the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds the first predefined threshold, selectively adjusting a transmission power to the sensor based on the number of EIDs relative to the first predefined threshold.

[0081] In one or any combination of these aspects, the sensor includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, and each of the one or more EIDs includes an RFID tag associated with the item.

[0082] In one or any combination of these aspects, the sensor is located at the retail establishment.

[0083] In one or any combination of these aspects, the method further includes determining a number of alarms triggered by the one or more RFID tags during a predetermined time period.

[0084] In one or any combination of these aspects, the method further includes selectively adjusting a transmission power to the sensor based on the number of alarms in response to determining that the number of triggered alarms exceeds a second predefined threshold.

[0085] In one or any combination of these aspects, the sensor includes a door assembly that includes a door of a retail establishment that is movable between an open position that allows items to pass along a path and a closed position that blocks items from passing along the path, and wherein the sensor door assembly is associated with one or more RFID readers.

[0086] In one or any combination of these aspects, the first predefined threshold and the second predefined threshold are selected based on an optimized performance of the sensor.

[0087] In one or any combination of these aspects, selectively adjusting the transmit power includes scheduling one or more selective adjustments of the transmit power based on a scheduling policy.

[0088] 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, the present disclosure is directed to one or more computer systems capable of performing the functionality described herein. Figure 5 1 is an example of a block diagram illustrating various hardware components and other features of a computer system that can operate the performance monitoring module 140 according to aspects of the present disclosure. Aspects of the present disclosure can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof, and can be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. In one example variation, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to one or more computer systems capable of performing the functionality described herein. Figure 5 An example of such a computer system 500 is shown in .

[0089] Computer system 500 includes one or more processors, such as processor 504. Processor 504 is connected to communication infrastructure 506 (e.g., a communication bus, a jumper bar, or a network). Various software aspects are described based on this example computer system. After reading this specification, it will be clear to those skilled in the relevant art how to implement various aspects of the present disclosure using other computer systems and / or architectures.

[0090] Processor 504, or any other "processor" as used herein, processes signals and performs general computational 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 may be received, transmitted, and / or detected.

[0091] The communication infrastructure 506, such as a bus (or any other use of "bus" herein), refers to an architecture of interconnects that are operably connected to transfer data between computer components within a single or multiple systems. The bus can be a memory bus, a memory controller, a peripheral bus, an external bus, a crossbar switch, and / or a local bus, etc. The bus can also be a bus that interconnects components within an access control system using protocols such as a controller area network (CAN), a local interconnect network (LIN), Wiegand and an open supervisory device protocol (OSDP), and RS-485 interconnects, etc.

[0092] Additionally, connections between components of computer system 500, or any other type of connection between computer-related components described herein, may be referred to as operable connections, and may include connections through which entities are operably connected so that signals, physical communications, and / or logical communications may be sent and / or received. Operable connections may include physical interfaces, data interfaces, and / or electrical interfaces.

[0093] 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 530. The computer system 500 also includes a main memory 508, preferably a random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory 510. The secondary memory 510 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 512 and / or a removable storage drive 514, representing a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk 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, a tape, an optical disk, etc. that is read and written by the removable storage drive 514. As will be appreciated, the removable storage unit 518 includes a computer-usable storage medium having computer software and / or data stored therein.

[0094] In alternative aspects, the secondary memory 510 may include other similar devices for allowing computer programs 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 those found in video game devices, a removable memory chip such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or a programmable read-only memory (PROM) and an associated slot, and other removable storage units 522 and interfaces 520 that allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 522 to the computer system 500.

[0095] It should be understood that the memory as used herein may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, ROM (read only memory), PROM (programmable read only memory), EPROM (erasable PROM) and EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM). Volatile memory may include, for example, RAM (random access memory), synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM) and / or direct RAM bus RAM (DRRAM).

[0096] The computer system 500 may also include a communication interface 524. The communication interface 524 allows software and data to be transferred between the computer system 500 and external devices. Examples of the communication interface 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 via the communication interface 524 are in the form of signals 528, which may be electronic, electromagnetic, optical or other signals capable of being received by the communication interface 524. These signals 528 are provided to the communication interface 524 via a communication path (e.g., channel) 526. This path 526 carries the signals 528 and may be implemented using wires or cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, radio frequency (RF) links, and / or other communication channels. In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer usable medium" are generally used to refer to media such as a removable storage drive 514, a hard disk installed in a hard disk drive 512, and signals 528. These computer program products provide software to the computer system 500. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to such computer program products.

[0097] Computer programs (also referred to as computer control logic) are stored in the main memory 508 and / or the secondary memory 510. The computer programs may also be received via the communication interface 524. When executed, such computer programs enable the computer system 500 to perform various features in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure as discussed herein. In particular, when executed, the computer programs enable the processor 504 to perform such features. Thus, such computer programs represent controllers of the computer system 500.

[0098] In a variation where software is used to implement aspects of the present disclosure, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into the computer system 500 using a removable storage drive 514, a hard disk drive 512, or a communication interface 520. The control logic (software), when executed by the processor 504, causes the processor 504 to perform functions in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure as described herein. In another variation, aspects are implemented primarily in hardware, for example using hardware components, such as 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.

[0099] In yet another example variation, aspects of the present disclosure are implemented using a combination of both hardware and software.

[0100] Aspects of the present disclosure discussed herein may also be described and implemented in the context of computer-readable storage media storing computer-executable instructions. Computer-readable storage media include computer storage media and communication media. For example, flash drives, digital versatile disks (DVDs), compact disks (CDs), floppy disks, and magnetic tape cassettes. Computer-readable storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, modules, or other data.

[0101] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments disclosed above and other features and functions, or alternatives or variations thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Moreover, various currently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, changes or improvements may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art, which are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for operating a sensor, comprising: receiving identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located proximate to the sensor; determining a number of EIDs located in the vicinity of the sensor based on the received identification information; determining whether the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold; as well as In response to determining that the number of EIDs located proximate to the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold, a transmission power to the sensor is selectively adjusted based on the number of EIDs relative to the first predefined threshold.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, and each of the one or more EIDs comprises an RFID tag associated with an item.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the sensor is located at a retail establishment.

4. The method of claim 2, further comprising: A number of alarms triggered by the one or more RFID tags during a predetermined time period is determined.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: In response to determining that the number of triggered alarms exceeds a second predefined threshold, a transmission power to the sensor is selectively adjusted based on the number of alarms.

6. The method of claim 3, wherein the sensor comprises a door assembly, the door assembly comprising a door of the retail establishment movable between an open position allowing items to pass along the path and a closed position preventing items from passing along the path, and wherein the sensor door assembly is associated with one or more RFID readers. The method of claim 5 , wherein the first predefined threshold and the second predefined threshold are selected based on an optimized performance of the sensor.

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein selectively adjusting transmission power comprises: One or more selective adjustments of transmit power are scheduled based on a scheduling policy.

9. A system for operating a sensor, comprising: Hardware processor; as well as a memory comprising instructions that, when executed by a hardware processor, cause the system to: receiving identification information from one or more electronic identification devices (EIDs) located proximate to the sensor; determining a number of EIDs located in the vicinity of the sensor based on the received identification information; determining whether the number of EIDs located near the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold; as well as In response to determining that the number of EIDs located proximate to the sensor exceeds a first predefined threshold, a transmission power to the sensor is selectively adjusted based on the number of EIDs relative to the first predefined threshold.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the sensor comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, and each of the one or more EIDs comprises an RFID tag associated with an item.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the sensor is located at a retail establishment.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the instructions further cause the system to determine a number of alarms triggered by the one or more RFID tags during a predetermined time period.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the instructions further cause the system to selectively adjust a transmission power to the sensor based on the number of alarms in response to determining that the number of triggered alarms exceeds a second predefined threshold.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the sensor comprises a door assembly, the door assembly comprising a door of the retail establishment movable between an open position allowing items to pass along the path and a closed position preventing items from passing along the path, and wherein the sensor door assembly is associated with one or more RFID readers.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the first predefined threshold and the second predefined threshold are selected based on an optimized performance of the sensor.

16. The system of claim 9, wherein the hardware processor configured to selectively adjust the transmit power is further configured to schedule one or more selective adjustments of the transmit power based on a scheduling policy.

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