Separation of a security tag from an article using a magnetic separator

Abstract

Aspects of the present application include a method of separating a security tag from an item that includes receiving, at a separator device, an unlock signal from a transaction system. The separator device includes: a housing having a slot configured to receive a security tag; the door assembly comprises a door component capable of moving between a closing position and an opening position for blocking the clamping groove; and the magnet is positioned on the opposite side of the clamping groove and has magnetic flux sufficient to unlock the magnetic lock of the security tag. The method further includes, based on receiving the unlocking signal, moving the door member from the closed position to the open position, receiving the security tag in the slot, and unlocking the magnetic lock of the security tag to allow the security tag to be separated from the item.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application serial number 17 / 848,003, entitled "Separating a security tag from an article using a magnetic separator with a movable blocker," and filed on June 23, 2022, the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to electronic security systems for protecting products and, more particularly, to a magnetic detacher with a movable blocker, a lock for unlocking an electronic security tag, and methods of using the magnetic detacher. Background Art

[0004] Merchants use electronic article security tags to protect products from theft and / or to track products. Such security tags typically include a locking mechanism that can be unlocked by the merchant by placing the locking mechanism near a magnetic separator system having a relatively strong magnetic field. Magnetic separator systems that use such magnetic tag detaching mechanisms generally lack the necessary security measures to ensure that the system is not used without authorization. In addition, with the increased reliance on self-service checkout systems, there is a need for improved magnetic separator systems for electronic article security tags. Summary of the invention

[0005] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive review of all contemplated aspects, and is neither intended to identify key or important elements of all aspects, nor to delineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description that is presented later.

[0006] According to one example, the present aspect includes a magnetic separator device that includes an automatic blocker. The magnetic separator device is connected to a transaction device that processes transactions for items that may have security tags. The transaction is performed by the transaction device and the RFID device scans the security tag. The processor determines whether the identifier associated with the security tag matches the identifier associated with the transaction. If the identifier of the security tag matches the approved identifier, the processor instructs the door or blocker to move from a closed position (the magnet of the magnetic separator is blocked) to an open position (the security tag is magnetically accessible and can be removed).

[0007] In one aspect, more specifically, the magnetic separator system includes a separator device, which includes: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a card slot, the card slot being configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly, which includes a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the card slot and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the card slot; a magnet, which is located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the card slot and adjacent to the card slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the card slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag; and a processor in communication with the actuator and a transaction system, wherein the processor is configured to control the actuator to move the door member from the closed position to the open position based on receiving an unlock signal from the transaction system.

[0008] Another example aspect includes a method of separating a security tag from an article, the method comprising receiving an unlock signal from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device includes: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a slot, the slot configured to receive the security tag; a door assembly, which includes a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the slot, a magnet is located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the slot and adjacent to the slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag. The method further includes, based on receiving the unlock signal, controlling the actuator by a processor to move the door member from the closed position to the open position. In addition, the method further includes receiving the security tag in the slot of the separator device.

[0009] Another example aspect includes a device for separating a security tag from an article, the device comprising a memory and a processor in communication with the memory. The processor is configured to receive an unlock signal from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device comprises: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a slot, the slot configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly, which comprises a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the slot, a magnet is located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the slot and adjacent to the slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag. The processor is further configured to control the actuator by the processor to move the door member from the closed position to the open position based on receiving the unlock signal. In addition, the processor is further configured to receive the security tag in the slot of the separator device.

[0010] Another example aspect includes a device for separating a security tag from an article, comprising a device for receiving an unlock signal from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device includes: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a slot, the slot configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly, comprising a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the slot, a magnet is located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the slot and adjacent to the slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag. The device further includes a device, based on receiving the unlock signal, controlling the actuator by a processor to move the door member from the closed position to the open position. In addition, the device further includes a device for receiving the security tag in the slot of the separator device.

[0011] Another example aspect includes a computer readable medium for separating a security tag from an article, which is executable by a processor to receive an unlock signal from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device includes: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a slot, the slot configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly, which includes a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the slot, a magnet is located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the slot and adjacent to the slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag. The instructions are further executable to control the actuator by the processor to move the door member from the closed position to the open position based on receiving the unlock signal. In addition, the instructions are further executable to receive the security tag in the slot of the separator device.

[0012] To accomplish the above and related ends, the one or more aspects include the features fully described below and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the accompanying drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative features of the one or more aspects. However, these features are indicative of only a few 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] Figure 1A A top perspective view of a portion of an example of a magnetic separator device for use with an electronic security tag having a magnetic locking mechanism, wherein the magnetic separator device includes a movable barrier or door that provides selective access to a magnetic field of the magnetic separator device, wherein the movable barrier or door is in a closed position.

[0014] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A top perspective view of a portion of a magnetic separator device with a movable blocker or door in an open position to allow access to the magnetic field of the device's magnets.

[0015] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A to Figure 1B A top perspective view of a magnetic separator device, wherein a security tag is inserted into a card slot of the magnetic separator and transitions from a locked state (top portion of the figure, the top button is depressed and the pin extends through the opening or entrance of the tag and into the bottom portion of the tag) to an unlocked state (bottom portion of the figure, the top button is extended and the pin is retracted into the top portion of the tag).

[0016] Figure 1D yes Figures 1A to 1C Schematic diagram of the magnetic separator in the example trading system.

[0017] Figure 1E to Figure 1G They are Figures 1A to 1D Perspective, top and overhead views of different types of security tags used in a magnetic separator device.

[0018] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A A top view of a magnetic separator device, for example in a closed position.

[0019] Figure 2B yes Figure 1B A top view of a magnetic separator device, for example in an open position.

[0020] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E yes Figure 1A to Figure 1B A top view, front view, rear view, left view and right view of a portion of a magnetic separator device.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 1A to Figure 1B An exploded view of an example of a magnetic separator device including additional components of the device.

[0022] Figure 5A is a top view of the magnetic separator device of Figure 1 with the door in a closed position to block access to the magnetic field of a magnet of the device, including a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a door control mechanism, the mechanism including a plate having a track in which a pin travels to move the door from a closed position to an open position, and further including a close-up view of the track having an optional locking slot.

[0023] Figure 5B is a top view of the door control mechanism of the magnetic separator device, similar to Figure 5Aand includes a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the door control mechanism, but with the door in an open position to allow access to the magnetic field of the device magnet.

[0024] Figures 5C to 5E yes FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B A top partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a door mechanism including a plate member having a locking slot and a biasing member attached to the door member, wherein the pin is biased from normal operation of the pin in the track ( Figure 5C ) transition to the door component that receives external force ( Figure 5D ) causes the pin to move from the track into the locking slot and transition back to normal operation when the external force is removed or reduced ( Figure 5E ).

[0025] Fig. 6A is a top perspective view of the magnetic separator device of FIG. 1 , including a partial cutaway view of an infrared (IR) sensor configured to detect the presence of a door or any other obstruction in the area above the magnets of the device.

[0026] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A A top view of the magnetic separator device including a partial cross-sectional view of the IR sensor.

[0027] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B is a top perspective view of another example of a magnetic separator described herein, including a housing suitable for positioning the magnetic separator on a tabletop.

[0028] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8E yes Figure 1A to Figure 1B A top view, front view, rear view, left view and right view of a portion of a magnetic separator device.

[0029] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of an exemplary method of using a magnetic detacher device to unlock a security tag attached to an item.

[0030] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D yes Fig. 9 Schematic diagram of an example magnetic separator and transaction terminal in the method.

[0031] Fig.11 Is configured to execute Figures 12 to 22 A block diagram of an example architecture of a computer device for implementing the method.

[0032] Fig.12 is a flow chart of another exemplary method of using a magnetic detacher device to unlock a security tag attached to an article.

[0033] Figures 13 to 22 is with Fig.12 Flowcharts of additional aspects related to the method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Various aspects of the present disclosure are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used throughout to refer to elements. In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, many specific details are set forth in order to facilitate a thorough understanding of one or more aspects of the present disclosure. However, it is apparent that in some or all cases, any aspect described below may be practiced without adopting the specific design details described below.

[0035] Aspects of the present disclosure include a magnetic separator having a blocker or door that is movable to limit or allow access to a magnetic field of an adjacent magnet to a slot for receiving an electronic security tag and to subsequently unlock the magnetic lock of the security tag. A magnetic separator having a movable door or blocker may provide one or more advantages over existing separator systems, such as, but not limited to, preventing unauthorized unlocking and removal of security tags from a product.

[0036] In an example embodiment, the magnetic separator includes a separator device configured to receive an unlock signal from a transaction system. The separator device further includes a housing configured to receive a security tag and a door assembly including a door member, the door assembly being configured to move between a closed position and an open position depending on whether the unlock signal has been received. When the door member is moved to the open position, the security tag can then be received by the magnetic separator and removed from the article.

[0037] Reference Figures 1A to 1G , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E and Figure 4 , in exemplary aspects, such as in security system 180 ( Figure 1D), the magnetic separator 100 includes a controllable door 116 that allows or prevents access to a magnet for unlocking the security tag 160. For example, the security system 190 controls the separation of the security tag 160 from the item 168 stored in the location 170, and includes a security sensor 172 near the entry / exit point 174, which detects when the item 168 with the security tag 160 is passed by the security sensor 172 and is taken out of the location 170 through the entry / exit point 174. For example, the security system 180 can be an electronic article surveillance system, the security tag 160 can be an electronic article surveillance tag with an acousto-magnetic element and / or a radio frequency identification (RFID) module, and the security sensor 172 can be one or more antennas configured to transmit a signal to the security tag 160 or the area of ​​the entry / exit point 174 and listen for a response signal from the security tag 160, wherein the response signal or the lack of such a response signal indicates that the security tag 160 is deactivated, such as when the item 168 with the security tag 160 has been paid for in a transaction 176 conducted with a transaction terminal 178. For example, transaction terminal 178 is connected to magnetic separator 100 and may be connected to transaction system 180, such as via a wired and / or wireless communication network 182, and may include a point of sale terminal 184 including a local or remote computer connected to transaction system 180 via communication network 182 and / or a mobile communication device 186 (such as a cell phone or tablet) connected to transaction system 180 via communication network 182, or any other type of computer device. In some cases, transaction system 180 may be a payment system, such as, but not limited to, an automated clearing house system.

[0038] The magnetic separator 100 includes a magnetic separator housing 102 that defines a structure to which all or part of the components of the magnetic separator 100 may be attached. For example, in one embodiment, the housing 102 includes a housing top portion 104 and a housing bottom portion 106 ( Figure 4 ), the top portion of the shell and the bottom portion of the shell can be attached to each other and can jointly accommodate all elements of the magnetic separator 100.

[0039] In one aspect, the housing top portion 104 includes a raised portion 108 at one end, wherein the raised portion 108 further includes at least one wall 110 that partially defines a slot 112 configured to receive a security tag 160 having a magnetic lock 162 ( Figure 1C In one example, which should not be construed as limiting, the magnetic lock 162 may include a mechanism configured to retain or release an item 168 within or from the entry 164 of the security tag 160 via movement of a pin 166. Figure 1C). For example, the movement of the pin 166 includes extending from the top portion of the security tag 160, passing through the entrance 164 and entering the bottom portion of the security tag 160, or moving from extending through the entrance 164 and entering the bottom portion of the security tag 160 to being substantially retracted from the entrance 164, such as entering into the top portion of the security tag 160. The card slot 112 includes a magnet opening 136 located in the housing top portion 104 so that the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 can be positioned adjacent to the magnet 138 ( Figure 4 ).

[0040] The wall 110 that partially defines the slot 112 can be a single continuous wall or multiple wall segments, and in some embodiments, it can form a curved shape that is configured to assist in positioning the security tag 160 within the slot 112 and / or limit the extent to which the security tag 160 can move laterally in one or more directions within the slot 112. In one aspect, the wall 110 defines a partially enclosed space that in turn defines at least a portion of the slot 112, which is sized and shaped to receive the security tag 160 and position the magnetic lock 162 adjacent to the magnet 138. It should be understood that the wall 110 can have a variety of shapes, or can be a straight wall.

[0041] The wall 110 further includes one or more inner walls 113 defining a door opening 114, which is configured to allow a door 116 (also referred to herein as a blocker) to movably extend out of and retract into the housing 102, and correspondingly extend into and out of the card slot 112 to respectively block or allow the security tag 160 to be placed in the card slot 112 and / or the magnet opening 136. In other words, the door 116, which can be partially guided by the door opening 114, is configured to be in a closed position ( Figure 1A and Figure 2A ) and the open position ( Figure 1B , Figure 2C and Figure 2B ) between. In addition, in some cases, the housing top portion 104 adjacent the door opening 114 may also include one or more inner walls 117, such as a bottom wall and opposing side walls, to further help guide or limit the movement of the door 116. When the door 116 is in the open position, the door 116 allows access to the card slot 112 and allows the security tag 160 to be placed in the card slot 112 for unlocking and removal from attachment to the object 168. Specifically, in the open position, the door 116 allows the security tag 160 to be placed on the magnet 138 ( Figure 4 ) generates a magnetic field, thereby causing the magnetic lock 162 ( Figure 1C ) moves from the locked state to the unlocked state (see Figure 1C). Alternatively, when the door 116 is in the closed position, the door 116 will at least partially block or limit access to the card slot 112 and / or the magnet opening 136, so that the security tag 160 may not be unlocked. Specifically, in the closed position, the door 116 prevents the security tag 160 from being placed in a position close enough to the magnetic field generated by the magnet 138 of the magnetic separator 100, for example, in a position where the magnetic field strength is insufficient to unlock the magnetic lock 162, thereby preventing the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 from moving from a locked state to an unlocked state. In other words, in the closed position, the door 116 has a size and position that maintains a sufficient spacing between the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 and the magnetic field of the magnet 138, so that the security tag 160 cannot be unlocked.

[0042] Reference Figure 1E to Figure 1G It should be understood that the card slot 112 of the magnetic separator 100 can be configured to accept multiple security tags of different types and / or shapes, such as but not limited to security tags 192, 194 and 196.

[0043] In one aspect, when moving from the closed position to the open position, all or most of the door 116 will be retracted through the door opening 114 into the raised portion 108 of the housing top portion 104. For example, in one embodiment, the door 116 extends longitudinally and moves linearly. However, in other embodiments, the door 116 can extend in an arc and have a rotational motion. In any case, when the door 116 has been retracted into the housing top portion 104, the end wall 118 of the door 116 can become flush or nearly flush with the wall 110 of the housing top portion 104. Similarly, when moving from the open position to the closed position, the door 116 will extend from the door opening 114 to a position that substantially blocks access to the card slot 112. It should be understood that the door 116 and the raised portion 108 of the housing top portion 104 shown are an exemplary embodiment, and the present disclosure includes other structural configurations in which the door can be moved into or out of a position to prevent the magnetic lock of the security tag from entering the magnetic field of the magnetic separator.

[0044] In one aspect, more specifically with reference to Figure 4 And additionally refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B, the door 116 is part of a door assembly 120, which is configured to move the door 116 between an open position and a closed position. For example, the door assembly 120 includes an actuator 130, which is connected to the door 116 and controlled by a processor 134 to move the door 116 between the open position and the closed position. For example, in one embodiment, the processor 134 can be mounted on the circuit board 131 and include a communication interface, which is configured to receive a door open command to move the door 116 to the open position and / or receive a door close command to move the door 116 to the closed position. In one case, the communication interface of the processor 134 can communicate with a transaction terminal 178 for purchasing an item with the security tag 160, for example, via a wired and / or wireless communication link, and the transaction terminal 178 sends the door open command to the processor 134 in response to the transaction 176 in which payment for the item 168 is received. In this case, the item 168 can be any product, and the transaction terminal 178 can be a point of sale terminal or a mobile device executing a self-service checkout application.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the door 116 can be configured to move between an open position and a closed position in response to a manual input from a user. In this embodiment, for example, the magnetic separator 100 may include a user interface, such as a key and / or an indicator panel 148, which may include one or more keys or buttons (e.g., an "open" button, a "close" button) that can receive user input (such as touch or press), which in turn causes the processor 134 to manually send a door open command or a door close command to the actuator 130 to open or close the door 116. In addition, the magnetic separator 100 can be connected to the transaction terminal 178 via a local or remote communication link, such as a wireless or wired connection, including but not limited to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, hard wiring, so that various functions of the magnetic separator 100 (such as the opening and closing of the door 116) can be manually controlled by the user providing corresponding user input to the transaction terminal 178. In some cases, these manual controls can be used by personnel with official capabilities if the door 116 fails or if an alternative situation occurs that requires manual override or use of the magnetic separator 100.

[0046] In one embodiment where the door 116 extends longitudinally and moves linearly, the door assembly 120 converts the rotational motion provided by the actuator 130 into linear motion of the door 116. For example, in one embodiment (see Figure 5A and Figure 5B), the door 116 is fixedly connected to a plate 122 having a wall inside the plate that defines a track 124 that is sized to receive a pin 126. The pin 126 extends into the track 124 and is configured to slidably move within the track and exert a force on the door member 116 to move the door member 116 between a closed position and an open position. The pin 126 is further connected to an actuator 130, such as but not limited to a controllable servo motor or a stepper motor having a rotatable shaft. In one aspect, an arm member 132 connects the pin 126 to the actuator 130. The arm member 132 extends between a first end and a second end, wherein the pin 126 is connected at the first end and the rotatable shaft of the actuator 130 is connected at the second end. The processor 134 is further configured to control the actuator 130 to rotate the shaft so that the pin 126 is in a first track position ( Figure 5A ) and the second track position ( Figure 5B ) to move between the two positions, thereby correspondingly moving the door member 116 between the closed position and the open position. When the pin is in the first track position on the track 124, the door member 116 moves to the closed position.

[0047] Specific reference Figure 5A and FIG. 5C to FIG. 5E In some embodiments, the track 124 may further include a locking slot 125 extending transversely to the track 124, such as adjacent to the first track position. When the door 116 is in the closed position and the pin 126 moves in the locking slot 125, the locking slot 125 will prevent the door 116 from moving toward the open position or prevent the pin 126 from moving toward the second track position on the track 124. In other words, the locking slot 125 will help prevent the door 116 from moving from the closed position to the open position without being caused by the actuator 130, such as if someone attempts to apply an external force F to the door 116 in the closed position (see Figure 5D ) in an attempt to move it to the open position.

[0048] More specifically refer to FIG. 5C to FIG. 5E In one exemplary embodiment, the plate 122 having the track 124 and the locking slot 125 further includes a biasing member 127, such as but not limited to a leaf spring or a spring steel strip, which is configured to apply a biasing force f to keep the pin 126 aligned with the track 124 and away from the locking slot 125 during normal operation. For example, the biasing member 127 is configured to apply a sufficient amount of biasing force f to prevent the door 116 from loosening or unwanted movement when in the closed position, which may occur due to the additional space in the track 124 provided by the locking slot 125. For example, referring to Figure 5C , when the door 116 is in the closed position, the pin 126 will not engage the locking slot 125 because the biasing force f of the biasing member 127 forces the pin 126 to interact with the opposing surface 129 of the track 124. Figure 4 ) Rotating arm member 132 ( Figure 4 ) so that the pin 126 is pulled and translated through the track 124 to move the door 116 to the open position, this interaction of the pin 126 with the opposing surface 129 of the track 124 continues. In other words, the biasing member 127 is configured to act on the pin 126 when the pin 126 is adjacent to the locking slot 125 to prevent the pin 126 from moving into the locking slot 125 unless the biasing force f is overcome by the external force F.

[0049] On the contrary, refer to Figure 5D When the external force F pushes the door 116 and overcomes the biasing force f of the biasing member 127, the biasing member 127 deflects and allows the door 116 to move slightly, which in turn causes the pin 126 to move into the locking groove 125. Therefore, when positioned in the locking groove 125, the pin 126 is prevented from passing through the track 124 and moving the door 116 to the open position. Therefore, the locking groove 125 prevents the use of the external force F to move the door 116 from the closed position to the open position.

[0050] In addition, refer to Figure 5E , once the external force F is no longer applied to the door 116 (or is reduced to less than the biasing force f), the biasing force f acting on the pin 126 causes the pin 126 to move from the locking slot 125 back to its original position in the track 124. It should be noted that in some cases, the biasing member 127 can be fixed to the plate 122, such as by being press-fit into the slot. In addition, in some cases, the plate 122 may include a fulcrum member 133 in a fixed position to provide a pivot point for the movement of the biasing member 127, wherein the fixed position is configured to provide a configured biasing force f to the biasing member 127 to reduce loose movement of the pin 126 in the track 124, but allow the pin 126 to move into the locking slot 125 in response to a specific external force F applied to the door 116.

[0051] Return to reference Figures 1A to 1G , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 4As described above, the housing top portion 104 includes a magnet opening 136 defined by one or more inner walls 135 located in or adjacent to the slot area 112. The magnet opening 136 is further located near, for example directly above, a magnet 138 contained within the magnetic separator housing 102. When the security tag 160 is located within the slot 112, the magnet 138 has a magnetic field and / or magnetic flux in the area of ​​the slot 112 sufficient to unlock the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 on the article. In one aspect, the magnet opening 136 is sized to accommodate at least that portion of the security tag 160 that is adjacent to or includes the magnetic lock 162 to allow the magnetic lock 162 to be placed close enough to the magnetic field of the magnet 138, thereby allowing the magnetic lock 162 to be unlocked so that the pin 166 of the magnetic lock 162 can then be removed from the article.

[0052] When the door 116 is in the closed position, it extends through and blocks the magnet opening 136, thereby preventing the magnet 138 from unlocking the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 and thus preventing the security tag 160 from being separated from the item. The processor 134 communicates with the transaction system and the actuator 130 to send instructions to the actuator 130 to move the door 116 between the open position and the closed position based on instructions received from the transaction terminal 178 and / or the transaction system 180. For example, the transaction terminal 178 and / or the transaction system 180 can relay an unlock signal to the processor 134 based on a completed or at least partially completed transaction to purchase the item 168, which in turn instructs the actuator 130 to move the door 116 from the closed position to the open position. Furthermore, door 116 moves to the open position to expose magnet opening 136 and magnet 138 , which allows security tag 160 to be placed in a position within slot 112 that allows magnet 138 to unlock magnetic lock 162 of security tag 160 and thereby enable security tag 160 to be separated from object 168 .

[0053] In some alternative or additional aspects, the processor 134 and / or the actuator 130 may additionally utilize a threshold value of current to maintain the door 116 in the closed position. For example, the actuator 130 may receive a current of a specific value in order to provide a force to move or maintain the door 116 in the closed position and / or prevent the door 116 from moving out of the closed position. In addition, the processor 134 is configured to issue an alarm if the amount of current (e.g., the current value) required to maintain the door 116 in the closed position exceeds a defined value, such as when the processor 134 has not received an instruction to open the door 116, and a force is applied to the door 116 without the participation of the actuator 130 in an attempt to move the door 116 to the open position. This feature prevents tampering with the door 116 to unlock the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 without a corresponding transaction 176. For example, a person may attempt to move the door 116 to unlock the magnetic opening 136, thereby attempting to remove the security tag using the magnet 138. In this case, the actuator 130 and / or the processor 134 senses the attempted change in the position of the door 116 and applies an increasing amount of current to keep the door 116 in the closed position. In this case, if the applied current value exceeds the predetermined current value, the processor 134 will generate an alarm to notify that tampering is occurring. Suitable examples of alarms may include, but are not limited to, one or more of an audible alarm through a speaker device, a visual alarm output through a display device or a lighting device, and / or an alarm message sent to another device, such as a computer device (e.g., a store security personnel or a store manager or a clerk). In addition, in some aspects, the threshold value will be set so that an unintentional collision of the door 116, or a force applied to the door 116 within a time period less than a threshold value (wherein such a force and / or time period is configured not to constitute an act of tampering), will not trigger an alarm. This feature can be combined with the locking slot 125 in the track 124, which will provide an additional level of security to prevent unauthorized use of the magnetic separator 100.

[0054] Reference Figure 4 , Fig. 6A and Figure 6B In another alternative or additional aspect, the housing top portion 104 may additionally include a presence sensor 150 to detect the presence of the door 116 and / or security tag 160 above the magnet opening 136, such as to determine whether the door 116 has been moved out of position without an authorized transaction 176, and / or to determine that the security tag 160 or other object is located above the magnet opening 136 such that it is unsafe to move the door 116 to the closed position. The presence sensor 150 may include any sensing mechanism capable of detecting the door 116, the security tag 160, and / or another object such as a human hand. A suitable example of a presence sensor 150 includes, but is not limited to, a sensor mounted on an IR beam interrupter mount 152 ( Figure 4) is an infrared (IR) beam interruption sensor assembly 150 on the card slot 112, which is configured to generate an IR beam 143 (see Fig. 6A ). The IR beam assembly 150 includes an IR beam emitter 140 mounted in the wall 110 on one side of the card slot 112, which emits an IR beam, and an IR beam receiver 142 mounted in the wall 110 opposite the IR beam emitter 140, which receives the IR beam 143. For example, the transmission of the IR beam 145 is positioned to be blocked by the door 116, the security tag 160, and / or any other object located in the card slot 112, which, when in a corresponding position, will prevent the IR beam 143 from being received by the IR beam receiver 142. In these aspects, the processor 134 will monitor the status of whether the IR beam 143 is interrupted or received by the IR beam receiver 142. If the IR beam 143 is received but the transaction 176 has not been initiated or completed, in some aspects, the processor 134 can generate an alarm because this situation may mean that the door 116 has been moved out of the closed position without authorization, causing the magnet opening 136 to be currently exposed, thereby enabling the security tag 160 to be unlocked and removed from the item. Thus, the IR beam assembly 150, in combination with the processor 134 and / or the actuator 130 that monitors the current threshold applied to hold the door 116 in place, provides two layers of security to ensure that the door 116 has not been tampered with to prevent unauthorized removal of the security tag from the item. Additionally, the IR beam assembly 150 can determine whether the item, the security tag 160, and / or any other object (such as a person's hand) is within the card slot 112 for removing the security tag 160 from the item. For example, the transaction 176 can be approved or completed and the door 116 is in the open position, and the IR beam assembly 150 will then determine that the object is in the card slot 112 based on the IR beam 143 being interrupted, and in response, the processor 134 can delay sending a command to close the door 116. Once the IR beam assembly 150 detects that the IR beam 143 is received for a threshold period of time after the door 116 has been opened, the processor 134 then determines that the card slot 112 is unobstructed and instructs the actuator 130 that it is safe to move the door 116 back to the closed position and then wait for the next transaction 176.

[0055] Return to reference Figure 4In alternative or additional aspects, the magnetic separator 100 may include a radio frequency identifier (RFID) reader device 144. For example, the RFID reader device 144 may include an RFID module mounted on the circuit board 131 and configured to transmit an electromagnetic interrogation pulse and receive a response message from the security tag 160 when the security tag 160 is located in the card slot 112. The response message from the corresponding RFID module on the security tag 160 may include a specific identifier associated with a specific item or article. The processor 134 and / or the corresponding transaction terminal 178 and / or the transaction system 180 will then determine whether the identifier received in the response message corresponds to an identifier of an item in the transaction 176 associated with the unlock signal. If the identifier matches the identifier associated with the item 168, the processor 134 relays information to the actuator 130 that the door 116 can be moved from the closed position to the open position. If the identifier does not match the identifier, the processor 134 will instruct the actuator 130 to maintain the door 116 in the closed position until the correct identifier has been placed in the card slot 112, and / or the processor 134 can generate an alarm. Additionally, in the event of multiple attempts to remove the security tag 160 from the incorrect item, the processor 134 may generate an alert based on the received identifier not matching the identifier of the item or item 168 involved in the transaction 176. This mechanism would prevent any attempts by a user to perform a transaction 176 on one item but then perform a remove security tag 160 from a different item, such as a friends and family deal, and / or perform a transaction for a first, relatively inexpensive item but then attempt to remove a security tag from a second, relatively expensive item based on the transaction for the first item.

[0056] Return to reference Figures 1A to 1D , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3A , Figure 4 and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5BIn some alternative or additional aspects, the housing 102 can further include a tag collector opening 146 sized to receive the security tag 160 after it has been removed from the article 168. For example, in this aspect, the portion of the housing top portion 104 that includes the tag collector opening 146 can extend beyond the sidewall of the housing bottom portion 106. In this case, in one embodiment, the magnetic separator 100 can be mounted on a tabletop having a hole therein, wherein the tag collector opening 146 can be aligned with the hole in the tabletop. In another embodiment, the magnetic separator 100 can be mounted on the tabletop such that the portion of the housing top portion 104 that includes the tag collector opening 146 extends beyond the edge of the tabletop. In either case, a bag or box can be positioned below the tag collector opening 146 to collect the unlocked security tag 160. The tag collector opening 146 is defined by a plurality of inner walls 145 at the end of the magnetic separator 100 opposite the door member 116, wherein the plurality of inner walls 145 may be defined at least in the housing top portion 104, and optionally, in the housing bottom portion 106 (see FIG. 3). For example, once the transaction 176 has been completed and the security tag 160 has been removed from the item 168, the security tag 160 may be placed into the tag collector opening 146 for reuse on a different item. In some aspects, a user may drop the security tag 160 through the tag collector opening 146, while in other aspects, the door 116 moving to a closed position may automatically push the security tag 160 into the tag collector opening 146. Thus, the tag collector opening 146 will allow for the collection of security tags, and / or help prevent inadvertent removal or loss of security tags after a transaction.

[0057] Reference Figure 1A to Figure 1B , FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , Figure 3A and Figure 4 In some alternative or additional aspects, the magnetic separator 100 may include a button and / or indicator plate 148 mounted on the housing 102. The button and / or plate 148 may include one or more user interfaces, including one or more buttons for various functions (such as turning the magnetic separator 100 on or off, or resetting the device in the event of a fault). In addition, one or more user interfaces may include one or more output devices, including indicator lights and / or displays, and / or tactile feedback mechanisms (such as piezoelectric devices) configured to generate vibrations, etc., to identify a status condition of the magnetic separator 100, such as whether the magnetic separator 100 is turned on or off, or is in a fault state, and / or whether the transaction 176 has been approved or denied.

[0058] As described above, the security system 190 including the magnetic separator system 100 further includes a transaction terminal 178, also referred to as a transaction device, which is configured to perform a purchase transaction 176 of an item 168 to which the security tag 160 is attached. Once the transaction 176 has been completed, the transaction terminal 178 will relay a completed transaction signal to the processor 134, which in turn will relay a command to the actuator 130 that the door 116 can be moved from the closed position to the open position. The processor 134 will further relay this information to the presence sensor 150, which triggers the presence sensor 150 to expect that the door 116 will be opened and the item 168 will be placed in the card slot 112 and the security tag 160 will be unlocked, and then emit an IR beam 143 to determine whether it is safe to move the door 116 to the closed position. The transaction terminal 178 can be a device directly attached to the magnetic separator 100, or it can be a mobile device such as a mobile phone, which can be connected to the magnetic separator 100 using a wireless communication protocol such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, near field communication (NFC), and / or cellular communication.

[0059] Reference FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B and FIG. 8A to FIG. 8E , another example of a magnetic separator 100 includes a housing 103 without a tag collector opening 146. In some cases, this embodiment of the magnetic separator 100 may be suitable for placement on top of a table or counter.

[0060] Reference Fig. 9 and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D , and returns a reference Figure 1D In one embodiment, the method 600 of operating the magnetic separator 100 includes various positions of the door 116 corresponding to various states of the transaction 176 ( Figure 1D ).

[0061] Initially, refer to Fig. 10A , prior to or at the start of transaction 176, the magnetic separator 100 is in an idle mode with the door 116 in a closed position.

[0062] Reference Fig. 10B , and in Fig. 9 At block 902 of , the method includes executing a transaction 176 for the item 168 at a transaction terminal 178, including completing the transaction 176. In addition, Fig. 9At box 904, the transaction terminal 178 will send an unlock signal based on the completion of the transaction 176 and / or the payment confirmation for the item 168, and the magnetic separator 100 will receive the unlock signal. In some cases, the magnetic separator 100 maintains the door 116 in a closed position before or at any time before receiving the unlock signal, and in some cases, the above-mentioned additional security measures may be required. For example, if box 902 and / or 904 is not completed and there is an attempt to move the door 116, or if it is determined that an incorrect security tag 160 attached to an incorrect (e.g., unpaid) item 168 has entered the card slot 112, the transaction terminal 178 can trigger an alarm or can display a notification to indicate that the transaction 176 has not been completed. If the transaction 176 has been completed correctly and the processor 134 determines that the identifier of the security tag 160 matches the identifier of the item in the transaction 176, then the method 600 will move to box 906.

[0063] Reference FIG. 10B to FIG. 10C , and at block 906 of method 600, processor 134 instructs actuator 130 ( Figure 4 ) moves the door 116 from the closed position to the open position, thereby allowing the security tag 160 to enter the card slot 112 and the magnetic field of the magnet 130. Fig. 9 At frame 908, once the door 116 moves to the open position, the security tag 160 locked to the object 168 received in the card slot 112 can be unlocked and removed from the object 168 when the magnetic field of the magnet 138 acts on the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160.

[0064] In addition, refer to Fig. 10D as well as Fig. 9 At block 910 , in some cases as described above, the door 116 may be moved back to the closed position to prevent removal of additional security tags, and in some cases the door 116 may move the security tag 160 from the card slot 112 into the tag collector opening 146 .

[0065] In some alternative aspects, presence sensor 150 can determine when item 168 has been removed from slot 112 after security tag 160 is removed from item 168, and / or when slot 112 is clear of any obstructions, and can signal processor 134 to trigger door 116 to move back to the closed position.

[0066] Method 600 may be performed for a single item or for multiple items. In the event of a multiple item purchase, the processor will determine if the security tag for each item matches an identifier for one of the items associated with the transaction. In an example scenario, a transaction will be completed for multiple items. For the first item, the door will start in a closed position and the processor will determine if the identifier associated with the item matches the identifier used for the transaction. If the identifier matches the identifier associated with the transaction, the door will move from the closed position to the open position, allowing the security tag to be removed. The door will then move back to the closed position and the process will be repeated for each subsequent item until the security tag for each item associated with the transaction has been removed. Additionally, for each item, each security measure will remain in place to ensure that security tags for items not included in the transaction are not removed.

[0067] Reference Fig.11 and Fig.12 In another alternative method of operation, the computer device 1100 may perform the method 1200 of separating a security tag from an article, for example, by executing the security tag detacher component 1115 by the processor 1105 and / or the memory 1110. In this case, the computer device 1100 may include the magnetic detacher 100, and / or a combination of the magnetic detacher 100 and the transaction terminal 178.

[0068] At block 1202, method 1200 includes receiving an unlock signal from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device includes: a housing having at least one wall, the at least one wall defining a card slot, the card slot configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly including a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the card slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the card slot; a magnet located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the card slot and adjacent to the card slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the card slot sufficient to unlock a magnetic lock of the security tag. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag separator assembly 1115, and / or receiving assembly 1120 can be configured to or can include means for receiving an unlock signal from a transaction system at the separator device. In this discussion, the separator device can be a magnetic separator 100, the door member can be a door 116, the next can be a card slot 112, the magnet can be a magnet 138, the security tag can be a security tag 160 locked to an item 168, the transaction system can be a transaction terminal 178 and / or a security system 180, and the unlock signal can be based on executing a transaction 176.

[0069] At block 1204, method 1200 includes controlling, by a processor, an actuator to move a door member from a closed position to an open position based on receiving the unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or moving assembly 1125 may be configured to or may include an apparatus that controls, by a processor, an actuator to move a door member from a closed position to an open position based on receiving the unlock signal. In this case, the processor may be processor 134, the actuator may be actuator 130, and the door member may be door 116.

[0070] At block 1206, method 1200 includes receiving a security tag in a slot of a separator device. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag separator component 1115, and / or receiving component 1130 may be configured to or may include means for receiving a security tag in a slot of a separator device.

[0071] At block 1208, method 1200 includes unlocking a magnetic lock of the security tag by a magnet based on receiving the security tag in the card slot to allow the security tag to be separated from the item. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or unlocking component 1133 may be configured as or may include a device for unlocking a magnetic lock of the security tag by a magnet based on receiving the security tag in the card slot to allow the security tag to be separated from the item.

[0072] For example, the unlocking at block 1208 may include the magnetic field of the magnet 138 unlocking the magnetic lock 162 of the security tag 160 .

[0073] Reference Fig.13 In an optional aspect, at block 1302, method 1200 may further include transmitting an electromagnetic interrogation pulse. For example, in an aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or transmitting component 1135 may be configured to or may include means for transmitting an electromagnetic interrogation pulse.

[0074] For example, the transmitting operation at block 1302 may include transmitting an interrogation pulse to identify the security tag to determine whether it matches an identification of a security tag attached to an item in transaction 176 .

[0075] In this optional aspect, at block 1304, method 1200 may further include receiving, by the radio frequency identifier reader device, a response message from the security tag when the security tag is in the card slot, wherein the response message includes the identifier. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or receiving component 1120 may be configured to or may include a device for receiving, by the radio frequency identifier reader device, a response message from the security tag when the security tag is in the card slot, wherein the response message includes the identifier.

[0076] In this optional aspect, at block 1306, method 1200 may also include determining, by the processor, whether the identifier matches an item identifier of an item in a transaction associated with the unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or determination component 1145 may be configured to or may include means for determining, by the processor, whether the identifier matches an item identifier of an item in a transaction associated with the unlock signal.

[0077] In this optional aspect, at block 1308, method 1200 may also include controlling, by the processor, an actuator to move the door member to the open position based on the identifier matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or control assembly 1150 may be configured to or may include a device for controlling, by the processor, an actuator to move the door member to the open position based on the identifier matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal.

[0078] In this optional aspect, at block 1310, method 1200 may also include controlling, by the processor, an actuator to maintain the door member in the closed position based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or control assembly 1150 may be configured to or may include a device for controlling, by the processor, an actuator to maintain the door member in the closed position based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal.

[0079] Reference Fig.14In an optional aspect, at block 1402, method 1200 may further include generating, via a processor, an alert notification in the event that multiple identifiers are detected or based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or generation component 1160 may be configured to or may include a device for generating, via a processor, an alert notification in the event that multiple identifiers are detected or based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal.

[0080] Reference Fig.15 In an optional aspect, at block 1502, method 1200 may further include generating an infrared (IR) beam of light through the card slot by a beam emitter of an infrared (IR) beam interruption sensor assembly. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or generation assembly 1160 may be configured to or may include a device for generating an IR beam of light through the card slot by a beam emitter of an infrared (IR) beam interruption sensor assembly.

[0081] For example, the generating operation at block 1502 may be used to determine whether it is safe to move the door 116 to a closed position.

[0082] In this optional aspect, at block 1504, method 1200 may also include determining, by a beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly, whether the IR beam is received, wherein the IR beam interruption assembly is configured to generate a beam reception signal or a beam interruption signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or determination assembly 1145 may be configured to or may include an apparatus that determines, by a beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly, whether the IR beam is received, wherein the IR beam interruption assembly is configured to generate a beam reception signal or a beam interruption signal.

[0083] In this optional aspect, at block 1506, the method 1200 may further include causing the processor to move the door member to the closed position in response to the transaction completion signal only when the beam reception signal is received. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the moving assembly 1175 may be configured to or may include means for causing the processor to move the door member to the closed position in response to the transaction completion signal only when the beam reception signal is received.

[0084] Reference Fig.16In an optional aspect, at block 1602, method 1200 may further include generating an infrared (IR) beam of light through the card slot by a beam emitter of an IR beam interruption sensor assembly. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or generation assembly 1180 may be configured to or may include a device for generating an IR beam of light through the card slot by a beam emitter of an infrared (IR) beam interruption sensor assembly.

[0085] In this optional aspect, at block 1604, the method 1200 may also include determining, by a beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly, whether the IR beam is received, wherein the IR beam interruption assembly is configured to generate a beam reception signal and a beam interruption signal, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the IR beam. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the determination component 1145 may be configured to or may include a device for determining, by a beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly, whether the IR beam is received, wherein the IR beam interruption assembly is configured to generate a beam reception signal and a beam interruption signal, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the IR beam.

[0086] In this optional aspect, at block 1606, the method 1200 may further include generating, by the processor, an alarm notification if the beam reception signal is received and the unlock signal from the transaction system is not received within a time period in which the beam reception signal is received. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher component 1115, and / or the generating component 1180 may be configured to or may include means for generating, by the processor, an alarm notification if the beam reception signal is received and the unlock signal from the transaction system is not received within a time period in which the beam reception signal is received.

[0087] Reference Fig.17 In an optional aspect, wherein the actuator uses a threshold value of current to maintain the door member in the closed position, at block 1702, the method 1200 may also include generating, by the processor, an alarm notification when the amount of current used to maintain the door member in the closed position exceeds the threshold value of current. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher component 1115, and / or the generating component 1180 may be configured to or may include a device for generating, by the processor, an alarm notification when the amount of current used to maintain the door member in the closed position exceeds the threshold value of current.

[0088] Reference Fig.18, in an optional aspect, wherein the device housing further comprises a top portion having a raised portion at one end of the device housing top portion, wherein the raised portion further comprises a plurality of inner walls defining a door opening, in block 1802, the method 1200 may further comprise guiding the door member through the door opening between the open position and the closed position. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the guide assembly 1200 may be configured to or may comprise a device for guiding the door member through the door opening between the open position and the closed position.

[0089] Reference Fig.19 In an optional aspect, wherein the housing includes a device housing top portion having a central inner wall defining a central opening adjacent to the magnet, at block 1902, the method 1200 may further include blocking access to the central opening by extension of the door member when the door member is in the closed position. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the blocking assembly 1205 may be configured to or may include a device for blocking access to the central opening by extension of the door member when the door member is in the closed position.

[0090] In one aspect, the housing includes a device housing top portion having a plurality of interior walls at an end of the device housing top portion opposite the door member, wherein the plurality of interior walls define a tag collector opening sized to receive a security tag.

[0091] Reference Fig. 20 In an optional aspect, wherein the door assembly includes a plate having an inner wall defining a track, at block 2002, the method 1200 may also include moving, by the processor, the door assembly between a first track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to a closed position, and a second track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to an open position. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the moving assembly 1210 may be configured to or may include means for moving, by the processor, the door assembly between a first track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to a closed position, and a second track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to an open position.

[0092] In this optional aspect, where the track further includes a locking slot extending transversely to the track, at block 2004, the method 1200 may further include positioning a pin of the door assembly in the locking slot in the closed position of the door member, wherein the locking slot prevents the pin from moving toward a second track position on the track. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher assembly 1115, and / or the positioning assembly 1215 may be configured to or may include a device for positioning a pin of the door assembly in the locking slot in the closed position of the door member, wherein the locking slot prevents the pin from moving toward a second track position on the track.

[0093] Reference Fig.21 In an optional aspect, at block 2102, the method 1200 may further include controlling, by the processor, the door member to move to an open position upon receiving a transaction initiation signal and controlling, by the processor, the door member to move to a closed position upon receiving a transaction completion signal. For example, in one aspect, the computer device 1100, the processor 1105, the memory 1110, the security tag detacher component 1115, and / or the generating component 1150 may be configured to or may include a device for controlling, by the processor, the door member to move to an open position upon receiving a transaction initiation signal and controlling, by the processor, the door member to move to a closed position upon receiving a transaction completion signal.

[0094] Reference Fig. 22 In an optional aspect, at block 2202, method 1200 may further include executing, by a transaction device, a purchase transaction for an item with a security tag and generating an unlock signal. For example, in one aspect, computer device 1100, processor 1105, memory 1110, security tag detacher component 1115, and / or execution component 1225 may be configured to or may include a device for executing, by a transaction device, a purchase transaction for an item with a security tag and generating an unlock signal.

[0095] In one aspect, the transaction device comprises a point of sale terminal or a mobile device.

[0096] In addition, it should be understood that the phrases or terms herein are for the purpose of description rather than limitation, so that the terms or phrases of this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the teachings and guidance provided herein, combined with the knowledge of those skilled in the art in the relevant field. In addition, the applicant does not intend to give any term in the specification or claims an uncommon or special meaning unless it is explicitly stated as such.

[0097] The various aspects disclosed herein cover the current and future equivalents to the known modules mentioned by way of example in the text. In addition, although various aspects and applications have been shown and described, it is obvious to those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure that more modifications than those mentioned above are possible without departing from the inventive concept disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for separating a security tag from an object, comprising: An unlock signal is received from a transaction system at a separator device, wherein the separator device comprises: a housing having at least one wall defining a slot configured to receive a security tag; a door assembly comprising a door member and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to move the door member between a closed position and an open position, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the card slot, and wherein the door member in the open position allows access to the card slot; and a magnet located on an opposite side of the housing relative to the card slot and adjacent to the card slot, wherein the magnet has a magnetic flux in the area of ​​the card slot sufficient to unlock the magnetic lock of the security tag; Based on receiving the unlock signal, the processor controls the actuator to move the door member from the closed position to the open position; receiving the security tag in the slot of the separator device; and Upon receiving the security tag in the card slot, the magnetic lock of the security tag is unlocked by the magnet to allow the security tag to be separated from the object.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: transmitting electromagnetic interrogation pulses; When the security tag is in the card slot, receiving a response message from the security tag by a radio frequency identifier reader device, wherein the response message includes an identifier; determining, by the processor, whether the identifier matches an item identifier of an item in a transaction associated with the unlock signal; controlling, by the processor, the actuator to move the door member to the open position based on the identifier matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal; as well as Based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal, the actuator is controlled by the processor to maintain the door member in the closed position.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In the event that multiple identifiers are detected or based on the identifier not matching the item identifier and based on the unlock signal, an alarm notification is generated via the processor.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: generating an infrared (IR) beam through the card slot by a beam emitter of an IR beam interruption sensor assembly; determining, by a beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly, whether the IR beam is received, wherein the IR beam interruption assembly is configured to generate a beam reception signal or a beam interruption signal; as well as The gate member is moved to the closed position by the processor in response to a transaction completion signal only when the light beam reception signal is received.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: generating an infrared (IR) beam through the card slot by a beam emitter of an IR beam interruption sensor assembly; A beam receiver of the IR beam interruption sensor assembly determines whether the IR beam is received, wherein an IR beam interruption assembly configured to generate a beam reception signal and a beam interruption signal, wherein the door member in the closed position blocks the IR beam; as well as An alarm notification is generated by the processor in the event that the light beam reception signal is received and the unlock signal is not received from the transaction system within a time period in which the light beam reception signal is received.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the actuator uses a threshold value of electric current to maintain the door member in the closed position, and the method further comprises: An alarm notification is generated by the processor when the amount of current used to maintain the door member in the closed position exceeds the threshold value of current.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the device housing further comprises a top portion having a raised portion at one end of the device housing top portion, wherein the raised portion further comprises a plurality of inner walls defining a door opening, and the method further comprises: The door member is guided by the door opening between the open position and the closed position.

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the housing comprises a device housing top portion having a central interior wall defining a central opening adjacent the magnet, wherein the central opening is sized to receive at least a portion of the security tag, and the method further comprising: When the door member is in the closed position, access to the central opening is blocked by extension of the door member.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The housing includes a device housing top portion having a plurality of inner walls at an end of the device housing top portion opposite the door member, wherein the plurality of inner walls define a tag collector opening sized to receive the security tag.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the door assembly comprises a panel having an inner wall, the inner wall defining a track, and the method further comprises: The door assembly is moved, by the processor, between a first track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to the closed position, and a second track position on the track, wherein the door member moves to the open position.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the track further comprises a locking slot extending transversely to the track, and the method further comprises: A pin of the door assembly is positioned in the locking slot in the closed position of the door member, wherein the locking slot prevents the pin from moving toward the second track position on the track.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The processor controls the door member to move to the open position when a transaction initiation signal is received, and controls the door member to move to the closed position when a transaction completion signal is received.

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The transaction device performs a purchase transaction on the item with the security tag and generates the unlock signal.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the transaction device comprises a point of sale terminal or a mobile device.

Images