Holograms generated based on tag detection

Abstract

Examples described herein generally relate to a system and method for dynamically displaying holographic images based on tag detection. The system includes a sensing device configured to detect an identifier from a tag associated with an item. The system includes a computer system including one or more memories storing computer executable instructions, and one or more processors, the one or more memories storing computer executable instructions, and one or more processors coupled to the one or more memories and configured, individually or in combination, to: store states of items, each item associated with a tag and an identifier; and selecting an image based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the article. The system includes a holographic display configured to project the image.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 518,259, filed August 8, 2023, entitled “HOLOGRAM GENERATED BASED ON TAGDETECTION,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0002] This disclosure relates to systems for communicating with customers in a retail environment, and more specifically to dynamic and adaptive systems for communicating with customers.

[0003] Retailers use security tags attached to goods and sensors that detect the location of these tags to detect the movement of goods. For example, Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems use various types of EAS tags to identify unauthorized removal of products from the retail environment. Inventory control systems monitor the stock of products available for sale and are often integrated with point-of-sale (POS) systems to enable real-time inventory monitoring. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems allow stores to track customer identities and purchasing patterns. Video cameras capture images showing in-store activity. Security systems may include exit systems that detect the presence of tags (e.g., bases including readers).

[0004] While such security systems are useful in detecting clandestine theft of merchandise, these technologies lack effective communication with customers. For example, an EAS system may trigger audible alarms, but general alarms may not convey sufficient information. Customers often ignore audible alarms, assuming they are directed at someone else. Typically, personnel are deployed to respond to alarms. However, the ability of personnel to correctly identify and respond to incidents can be limited by a lack of information and by legal, policy, or potential violence. Given the foregoing, technological improvements are needed for technologies used in retail environments.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in this field to improve communication from security systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following provides a brief overview of one or more embodiments of this disclosure to offer a basic understanding of such embodiments. This invention is not a comprehensive review of all conceivable embodiments and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of all embodiments nor to define the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.

[0007] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a system comprising: a sensing device configured to detect an identifier from a tag associated with an item; a computer system including one or more memories and one or more processors storing computer-executable instructions, the one or more processors being coupled to the one or more memories and configured individually or in combination to: store the state of an item, each item being associated with a tag and an identifier; and select an image based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the item; and a holographic display configured to project the image.

[0008] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a system in which the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

[0009] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a system in which the image is a series of images.

[0010] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a system in which the image includes an image of the item.

[0011] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a system in which, in order to select an image, one or more processors are configured individually or in combination to: determine the value of the item; and select the image based on the value of the item.

[0012] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a system that further includes a video screen configured to display additional information associated with the item.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method comprising: detecting an identifier from a tag associated with an item by a sensing device; determining the state of the item based on the tag; selecting an image based on the location of the sensing device and the state of the item; and displaying the image on a holographic display.

[0014] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

[0015] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which the image is a series of images.

[0016] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which the image includes an image of the item.

[0017] In some respects, the techniques described herein relate to a method in which selecting the image includes: determining the value of the item; and selecting the image based on the value of the item.

[0018] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method that further includes displaying additional information associated with the item on a video screen.

[0019] Additional advantages and novel features relating to embodiments of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following description or upon study and practice of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0020] In the attached diagram:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example retail location that includes a dynamic display system for displaying holographic images.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an example holographic display device.

[0023] Figure 3 It is a diagram of an instance database of product information.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram of an example computer system implementing an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a security system for dynamically displaying applications.

[0025] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example method for dynamically displaying a full-system image according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram of an example computer device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] This disclosure provides systems and methods for tracking anti-theft tags outside of retail environments. This disclosure provides configuration of active radio tags and systems for activating or deactivating such tags to track goods that have left a retail location.

[0028] Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems are commonly used in retail stores and other locations to prevent unauthorized removal of goods from protected areas. Typically, the detection system is positioned at the exit of the protected area and includes one or more transmitters and antennas (“bases”) capable of generating an electromagnetic field across the exit (called an “interrogation zone”). The protected item is tagged with a security label (such as an RFID and / or acousto-magnetic (AM) tag) (also known as an EAS tag), which generates a response signal when it passes through the interrogation zone. An antenna and receiver in the same or another “base” detects this response signal and generates an alarm.

[0029] In cases of organized retail crime (ORC), alarms may not be sufficient to stop theft. For example, thieves may simply ignore the alarm and continue leaving the retail location. They may evade security personnel or law enforcement. Furthermore, confronting thieves at the retail location can escalate the situation and potentially endanger customers. Additionally, audible alarms can confuse other customers, who may mistakenly believe they triggered the alarm themselves.

[0030] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a dynamic display system and method for generating holographic displays based on tag detection. Items may be affixed with security tags configured to transmit item identifiers. The security tags may be scanned at one or more locations to determine the status of the item. A point-of-sale (POS) system may provide further information about the status of the item. For example, the item may have a status of not purchased, checking out, or purchased. The holographic display device is configured to display an image based on the status of the scanned tag.

[0031] In a typical use case, tags can be scanned near the exit of a retail location. The tag's status can be used to dynamically select the image to be displayed on the holographic display. For example, if a tag has an "unpurchased" status and is detected by a sensor located between the checkout and the exit, an image of the item associated with that tag can be selected for display on the holographic display. The holographic display can attract the attention of customers and / or staff near the exit. Holographic displays can provide more useful and less confusing information than audible alarms. For example, if a customer inadvertently forgets to pay for an item, the display of the item can remind the customer to return to the checkout. In the event of theft, the holographic display of the item can notify the thief that the security system has detected the theft and knows what item is being stolen. In cases involving staff, the holographic display can provide information about a specific item being sought. Furthermore, customers unrelated to the item are less likely to be concerned, as they can recognize that the holographic image is irrelevant to them.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 1The example retail location 100 includes multiple areas where tagged products can be located. For example, retail location 100 may include an open display area 110, a front end 112, an aisle 114, an entrance / exit area 116, and a security room 118. Customers 130 may be located in different areas. Staff 132 may be located in locations such as checkout registers and security room 118. Staff 132 may operate a point-of-sale (POS) system 134. In some embodiments, the POS system 134 may include a self-service kiosk or a mobile application. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed systems and methods are applicable to a variety of retail locations, and this disclosure is not limited to the example retail location or area.

[0033] As discussed above, retailers (e.g., customer product and apparel retailers) have deployed security tags (such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems) in their stores to track product movement as they arrive in the store, are placed in sales areas for display, and are sold. By adopting RFID, retailers are able to reduce the amount of time store employees spend counting inventory (e.g., manually counting stock on floors and in warehouses) and increase merchandise visibility within each store, enabling shoppers in-store and online to find what they want. RFID uses radio waves to read and capture information stored on tags attached to objects such as goods, products, or merchandise. Additionally, RFID tags can be used in conjunction with security systems to detect inventory changes and / or potential loss events. For example, an RFID tag can be read by an exit system to determine if tagged item 122 is leaving a retail location.

[0034] In one aspect, a tag (e.g., tag 124) may be configured to transmit an item identifier 128 to a sensor device. The item identifier 128 may be a unique code that identifies the tag 124, such as a serial number. The item identifier 128 may be associated with an item, for example, when the item is tagged. In some embodiments, the item 122 may be tagged 124 during manufacturing or packaging in a process known as origin marking or origin tagging. Thus, the item identifier 128 and / or tag 124 can be used to track items throughout the distribution chain. For example, an active radio tag may be configured to transmit the item identifier before any unauthorized removal and until it is deactivated at the point of sale. In some embodiments, tag 124 may include an RFID tag 126 (e.g., an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tag). The RFID tag 154 can be read by a reader from up to several feet away and does not need to be within the reader's direct line of sight to be tracked.

[0035] An RFID system may consist of two parts: tags or markers (e.g., EPC tag 126) and readers (e.g., export system 140). The RFID tag (also referred to as a marker) embeds an RFID transmitter and a receiver. The RFID components on the tag may include a microchip for storing and processing information, and an antenna for receiving and transmitting signals. The EPC tag may further include a specific serial number for each particular object (e.g., an Electronic Product Code (EPC)). The EPC may also be embedded in tag 124. For example, in one embodiment, tag 124 may include multiple storage units, such as a retention memory, an EPC memory, a Tag Identification (TID) memory, and a user memory. The retention memory may include access passwords and deactivation passwords. The EPC memory may include EPC, protocol control, and cyclic redundancy check values. The TID memory may include tag identification. The user memory may store custom data.

[0036] POS system 134 can be configured to deactivate tag 124 when a tagged item 122 is purchased. In some implementations, POS system 134 can deactivate tag 124 itself, for example, by using a deactivation password to prevent tag 124 from being transmitted. In some implementations, POS system 134 can deactivate tag 124 within security system 102, for example, by setting the status of tag 124 to deactivated.

[0037] To read the information encoded on tag 124, a two-way radio transmitter-receiver, referred to as a sensing device, interrogator, or reader (e.g., exit system 140), transmits a signal to the EPC tag using an antenna (e.g., an internal antenna). Exit system 140 may apply filtering to indicate which storage device the EPC tag 124 should use in response to the transmitted signal. The EPC tag 124 may respond with information written in the storage device (e.g., an EPC value or serial number). The EPC tag dataset may include any information stored on the EPC tag 124 as well as information about reading the EPC tag 124. For example, the EPC tag dataset may include: the timestamp, location, signal transmission power, Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), and identifier of the RFID reader (e.g., exit system 140). For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms EPC tag and RFID tag may be used interchangeably. The EPC tag 124 may be a passive tag or a battery-powered EPC tag. Passive RFID tags may use the radio wave energy of an RFID interrogator or receiver to relay the stored information back to the interrogator. In contrast, the battery-powered EPC tag 124 can be embedded with a small battery to power the information relay.

[0038] On one hand, the sensing device 148 may be positioned remotely from the exit system 140. For example, the sensing device 148 may be embedded in the floor or ceiling. In some embodiments, the sensing device 148 may be located near the front end 112 (e.g., in a queuing area) to detect items before purchase. In some embodiments, the sensing device 148 may be located between the front end 112 and the exit system 140 to detect tags that have not been deactivated by the POS system 134.

[0039] In some aspects, security system 102 may include one or more cameras 120 configured to monitor customers 130 and / or staff 132. The one or more cameras 120 may be configured to determine whether item 122 has been taken without authorization. In one aspect, detection component 162 may analyze images captured by the one or more cameras 120 to determine if a person possessing item 122 is leaving retail location 100 with an activated tag 124.

[0040] In one aspect, security system 102 includes a holographic display 150. The holographic display 150 may include any device configured to display a hologram. In some embodiments, the holographic display 150 includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on one or more arms. The arms are mounted to a motor that rotates the arms at a rate imperceptible to the naked eye. A controller controls the LEDs based on a three-dimensional image as the arms rotate. The movement and combination of patterns of the LEDs create a holographic effect for a viewer in viewing area 152. In some embodiments, viewing area 152 may be located in entrance / exit area 116.

[0041] Security system 102 may include exit system 140 and dynamic display system 160. Exit system 140 may include multiple sensors 142 located near exit 144. For example, example retail location 100 may include two relatively narrow exits 144. Sensors 142 may be located on each side of exit 144. For example, in an embodiment, sensor 142 may include at least one RFID reader including an antenna that generates a tag detection field 146. Typically, sensor 142 may be configured (e.g., by setting a power level) such that tag detection field 146 covers exit 144 to detect tags moving through the exit. Although sensor 142 is shown as a base adjacent to exit 144, sensor 142 may be located on the floor and / or ceiling. Sensor 142 may include additional sensors that can generate measurements other than RF measurements. For example, sensor 142 may include an infrared (IR) sensor, an inertial sensor, a magnetic sensor, or a camera.

[0042] The dynamic display system 160 may be a computer device programmed to display images based on tag data received from tags 124, POS system 134, and exit system 140. The dynamic display system 160 may be, for example, any mobile or fixed computer device, including but not limited to computer servers, desktop or laptop or tablet computers, cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices, any other computer device with wired and / or wireless connectivity to one or more other devices, or any other type of computerized device. In some embodiments, the dynamic display system 160 may be located separately from the retail location 100. For example, the dynamic display system 160 or its components may be hosted on a server in a cloud network or data center and communicate with components of the security system 102 at the retail location 100.

[0043] The dynamic display system 160 includes a detection component 162 configured to deactivate tag 124 upon purchase of tagged item 122. In some embodiments, the detection component 162 may be configured to detect unauthorized removal of an item labeled with an item identifier. For example, the detection component 162 may receive a signal from exit system 140 indicating movement of tag 124 at the exit system. When the tag is not deactivated and movement of the tag is detected, the detection component 162 may detect unauthorized removal of item 122. The dynamic display system 160 may include a status component 164 configured to determine the status of an item based on the tag. The dynamic display system 160 may include a selection component 166 configured to select an image based on the position of a sensing device and the status of the item. The dynamic display system 160 may include a holographic display controller 168 configured to display images on a holographic display. For example, the holographic display controller 168 may output a three-dimensional image format for display on holographic display 150.

[0044] During operation, in one aspect of this disclosure, a person may attempt unauthorized removal of item 122. Prior to unauthorized removal, item 122 may be tagged 124 by the manufacturer and / or by staff 132. This person may attempt to remove item 122 (with tag 124) from retail location 100 without proper payment. Since item 122 has not been paid for, tag 124 remains "active" (e.g., not yet deactivated by POS system 134) and is detected by one or more of multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148. In one case, multiple sensors 142 may detect tag 124 by receiving a response from tag 124. Multiple sensors 142 may transmit signals to dynamic display system 160. Since tag 124 is still being transmitted, detection component 162 and / or status component 164 may determine that tag 124 is still active (i.e., not yet deactivated by a password). In another scenario, detection component 162 and / or status component 164 may determine that the item 122 associated with tag 124 has not yet been correctly purchased. Therefore, detection component 162 may determine that tag 124 is still active.

[0045] In some aspects of this disclosure, multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148 can detect an active tag 124 and / or movement associated with tag 124 at two exits 144. In response to the detection of an active tag 124 and / or movement associated with it at the two exits 144, a detection component 162 can determine unauthorized removal of an item 122 associated with the active tag 124. In response, a selection component 166 can select an image based on the position of the active tag 124 and the state of the item 122. The selection component 166 selects an image of the item 122. Next, a holographic display controller 168 can output a three-dimensional image format for display on a holographic display 150. The holographic display 150 can display a three-dimensional image based on the three-dimensional image format.

[0046] In a first embodiment according to aspects of this disclosure, customer 130 may have item 122 that has not yet been purchased (e.g., forgotten to remove after trying on item 122). Customer 130 may walk toward exit 144 carrying the unpurchased item 122. Since item 122 has not been purchased, the tag 124 associated with item 122 remains active. Multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148 may detect signals transmitted by tag 124 in response to an inquiry signal. Furthermore, multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148 may detect tag 124 at exit 144. Thus, detection component 162 may determine that tag 124 is still active and item 122 is being taken without authorization. Based on the location of tag 124 (at exit 144), selection component 166 may select one or more images of item 122 for display. The holographic display controller 168 and / or the holographic display 150 may display one or more images of the item 122 (selected by the selection component 166) to remind the customer 130 to pay for or remove the item 122 that has not been purchased.

[0047] In a second embodiment according to aspects of this disclosure, customer 130 may have an item 122 associated with an accessory for sale. Customer 130 may be at the location of the accessory within a retail location 100. Multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148 may detect a tag 124. Detection component 162 may determine that item 122 has not yet been purchased. Furthermore, multiple sensors 142 and / or sensing devices 148 may detect tag 124 at the location of the accessory. Therefore, based on the location of tag 124 (at the location of the accessory), selection component 166 may select one or more images of the accessory for display. Holographic display controller 168 and / or holographic display 150 may display one or more images of the accessory to remind customer 130 to purchase the accessory for convenience. Other applications of this disclosure may also be implemented.

[0048] Figure 2 An example holographic display 150 is illustrated. The holographic display 150 includes an arm 210 having a plurality of LEDs 212. For example, the LEDs 212 may be multicolor LEDs, each capable of illuminating in a configurable color. The holographic display 150 includes a motor 220 that rotates a shaft 222 coupled to the arm 210. A driver 224 generates signals to control the LEDs 212 to illuminate at the correct time to display an image. The image may be defined by a three-dimensional image file, which may be provided by a holographic display controller 168.

[0049] In some embodiments, the holographic display 150 includes a housing 230 to support the motor 220 and the arm 210. For example, the housing 230 may include a shield 232 that at least partially surrounds the arm 210 to prevent interference from external objects. In some embodiments, the housing 230 may include an auxiliary display 234. For example, the auxiliary display 234 may display additional images and / or text.

[0050] Figure 3 An instance configuration 300 of database 170 is illustrated. Configuration 300 defines a schema for storing information used to track goods and display images. For example, configuration 300 may include a goods table 310, which includes an entry for each tagged item 122. Goods table 310 may include, for example, a tag identifier 128, a goods description 312 (e.g., a Stock Keeping Unit (SKU)), a status 314, a value 316, and an image file 318. Goods table 310 may include any additional information related to the goods from an EAS, POS, or CRM system. Tag identifier 128 may be a unique code (e.g., an EPC code) stored in tag 124. Goods description 312 provides information about the goods associated with the tag, such as the product stock keeping unit (SKU), manufacturer, legal owner, etc. Status 314 may indicate whether the goods have been purchased. Value 316 may indicate the value of the goods, such as monetary value or value category (e.g., high, medium, low).

[0051] Image file 318 may be a three-dimensional image file in a format supported by holographic display 150. In one aspect, product list 310 includes images of products as image file 318, allowing selection of product images for holographic display. Database 170 may include other image files that can be displayed in response to various events. For example, event image file 320 may be images associated with events such as non-payment or theft. For example, a theft event may result in the selection of images of police officers and images of products. The holographic display may sequentially display the selected images. In some embodiments, a set of text image files 330 may include images of text that can be displayed holographically.

[0052] Go to Figure 4The instance dynamic display system 160 can be implemented as a computer device 440 configured to execute a dynamic display application 460. Whether the computer device 440 is located at the retail location 100 or remotely, it may include a central processing unit (CPU) 442 that executes instructions stored in memory 444. For example, the CPU 442 may execute an operating system 452 and one or more applications 454, which may include an RFID reader configuration application. The computer device 440 may include a storage device 446 for storing data, such as POS system events and exit system measurements. The computer device 440 may also include a network interface 448 for communicating with external devices via a network. For example, the computer device 440 may communicate with the POS system 134, sensing devices 148, and / or exit system 140.

[0053] Computer device 440 may optionally include a display 450. Display 450 may be, for example, a computer monitor and / or a touchscreen. Display 450 may provide information to an operator and allow the operator to configure computer device 440. Computer device 440 may include an antenna assembly 456 configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more external devices.

[0054] Memory 444 may be configured to store data and / or computer-executable instructions defining operating system 452 and / or application 454 and / or associated with them, and CPU 442 may execute operating system 452 and / or application 454. Memory 444 may represent one or more hardware memory devices accessible to computer device 440. Examples of memory 444 may include, but are not limited to, a type of memory available to a computer, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, optical disk, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and any combination thereof. Memory 444 may store a local version of an application executed by CPU 442. In embodiments, memory 444 may include a storage device that may be non-volatile memory.

[0055] CPU 442 may include one or more processors for executing instructions. Instances of CPU 442 may include, but are not limited to, any processor specifically programmed as described herein, including controllers, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), or other programmable logic or state machines. CPU 442 may include other processing components such as an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), registers, and control units. CPU 442 may include multiple cores and may be able to use multiple cores to concurrently process different instruction sets and / or data to execute multiple threads.

[0056] Operating system 452 may include instructions (such as application 454) stored in memory 444 and executable by CPU 442. Application 454 may include a dynamic display application 460 configured to track merchandise removed from retail location 100 without authorization.

[0057] The dynamic display application 460 may include a detection component 162, a status component 164, a selection component 166, and a holographic display controller 168.

[0058] Go to Figure 5 Example method 500 dynamically displays a hologram based on the product's state according to tag events. For example, method 500 can be executed by dynamic display system 160 and / or dynamic display application 460 on computer device 440. Optional blocks are shown in dashed lines.

[0059] At block 510, method 500 includes detecting an identifier from a tag associated with an article by a sensing device. For example, dynamic display system 160 and / or detection component 162 may detect article identifier 128 from a tag 124 associated with article 122 via sensing device 148. For example, in some embodiments, block 510 may optionally include detecting movement of the tag toward an exit.

[0060] At box 520, method 500 includes determining the status of an item based on a tag. For example, dynamic display system 160 and / or status component 164 may determine the status of an item based on a tag. For example, status component 164 may look up status 314 in database 170. Status 314 may be updated based on actions performed, for example, by POS system 134. For example, determining the status may indicate whether the item has been purchased.

[0061] At box 530, method 500 includes selecting an image based on the location of the sensing device and the state of the item. For example, dynamic display system 160 and / or selection component 166 may select an image based on the location of the sensing device and the state of the item. For example, if the sensing device is located between front end 112 and exit, selection component 166 may select one or more images indicating an unpaid item. For example, the selected images may include image file 318 and / or event image file 320 associated with theft. In some embodiments, selection component 166 may also select text for display on holographic display 150 and / or auxiliary display 234. In some embodiments, box 530 may include determining the value of the item and selecting the image based on that value. For example, selection component 166 may determine the value 316 of the item in database 170. Selection component 166 may select an image based on value according to a threshold. For example, if the value is greater than the threshold, selection component may select a theft image, while if the value is less than the threshold, selection component 166 may display an image or text indicating a return to checkout, or simply display an image of the item.

[0062] At box 540, method 500 includes displaying an image on a holographic display. For example, a dynamic display system 160 and / or a holographic display controller 168 may display the image on the holographic display 150. For example, the holographic display controller 168 may output an image file or an identifier of an image file to the holographic display 150. In some embodiments, the image is a series of images. Therefore, the holographic display 150 may present animated images. In some embodiments, the holographic display 150 is located between the sensing device 148 and an exit. Therefore, customers and / or employees can view the image before items leave the premises (e.g., a store).

[0063] Now for reference Figure 6 An example computer device 440 according to an embodiment is shown, which includes... Figure 4 Additional component details are provided below. In one example, computer device 440 may include one or more processors 48 for performing processing functions associated with one or more of the components and functions described herein. The one or more processors 48 may include a single set or multiple sets of processors or a multi-core processor. Furthermore, the one or more processors 48 may be implemented as an integrated processing system and / or a distributed processing system. In embodiments, for example, the one or more processors 48 may include a CPU 442.

[0064] In an example, computer device 440 may include one or more memories 50 for storing instructions executable by one or more processors 48 to perform the functions described herein. For example, in an embodiment, the one or more memories 50 may include memory 444. The one or more memories 50 may include instructions for executing dynamic display application 460.

[0065] Furthermore, computer device 440 may include a communication component 52 that provides the means to establish and maintain communication with one or more parties using the hardware, software, and services described herein. Communication component 52 can communicate between components on computer device 440, and between computer device 440 and external devices, such as devices located on a communication network and / or devices serially or locally connected to computer device 440. For example, communication component 52 may include one or more buses, and may further include transmit chain components and receive chain components, respectively associated with a transmitter and a receiver, operable for interfacing with external devices.

[0066] Furthermore, computer device 440 may include a data storage area 54, which may be any suitable combination of hardware and / or software, providing extensive storage for information, databases, and programs relevant to the embodiments described herein. For example, data storage area 54 may be a data repository for operating system 452 and / or application 454. The data storage area may include memory 444 and / or storage device 446.

[0067] The computer device 440 may also include a user interface component 56 operable to receive input from a user of the computer device 440 and further operable to generate output for presentation to the user. The user interface component 56 may include one or more input devices, including but not limited to a keyboard, numeric keypad, mouse, touch-sensitive display, digitizer, navigation keys, function keys, microphone, voice recognition component, any other mechanism capable of receiving input from the user, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the user interface component 56 may include one or more output devices, including but not limited to a display, speaker, haptic feedback mechanism, printer, any other mechanism capable of presenting output to the user, or any combination thereof.

[0068] In this implementation, the user interface component 56 may transmit and / or receive messages corresponding to operations of the operating system 452 and / or the application 454. Furthermore, one or more processors 48 may execute the operating system 452 and / or the application 454, and one or more memories 50 or data storage areas 54 may store them.

[0069] As used herein, the terms “component,” “system,” etc., are intended to include computer-related entities such as, but not limited to, hardware, firmware, combinations of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable program, an execution thread, a program, and / or a computer. For illustration, both applications running on a computer device and the computer device itself can be components. One or more components may reside within a process and / or an execution thread, and components may reside on a single computer and / or be distributed across two or more computers. Furthermore, these components can be executed from various computer-readable media on which various data structures are stored. These components can communicate via local and / or remote processes, such as according to signals having one or more data packets, such as data from a component interacting with another component in a local system, a distributed system, and / or data interacting with other systems via signals across a network such as the Internet.

[0070] Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean inclusive "or" rather than exclusive "or". That is, unless otherwise stated or clearly indicated from the context, the phrase "X adopts A or B" is intended to mean any natural inclusive substitution. That is, the phrase "X adopts A or B" is satisfied by any of the following: X adopts A; X adopts B; or X adopts both A and B. Additionally, the articles "a" and "an" as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be interpreted as meaning "one or more", unless otherwise stated or clearly indicated from the context.

[0071] The following numbered clauses describe additional example implementation schemes:

[0072] Clause 1. A system comprising: a sensing device configured to detect an identifier from a tag associated with an article; a computer system including one or more memories and one or more processors, the one or more memories storing computer-executable instructions, the one or more processors being coupled to the one or more memories and individually or in combination configured to: store the state of an article, each article associated with a tag and an identifier; and select an image based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the article; and a holographic display configured to project the image.

[0073] Clause 2. The system described in Clause 1, wherein the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

[0074] Clause 3. The system described in Clause 1 or 2, wherein the image is a series of images.

[0075] Clause 4. The system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the image includes an image of the article.

[0076] Clause 5. The system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein, in order to select the image, the one or more processors are configured individually or in combination to: determine the value of the item; and select the image based on the value of the item.

[0077] Clause 6. The system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5 further includes a video screen configured to display additional information associated with the item.

[0078] Clause 7. A method comprising: detecting an identifier from a tag associated with an article by a sensing device; determining a state of the article based on the tag; selecting an image based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the article; and displaying the image on a holographic display.

[0079] Clause 8. The method described in Clause 7, wherein the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

[0080] Clause 9. The method described in Clause 7 or 8, wherein the image is a series of images.

[0081] Clause 10. The method according to any one of Clauses 7 to 9, wherein the image includes an image of the article.

[0082] Clause 11. The method according to any one of Clauses 7 to 10, wherein selecting the image comprises: determining the value of the item; and selecting the image based on the value of the item.

[0083] Clause 12. The method according to any one of Clauses 7 to 11 further includes displaying additional information associated with the item on a video screen.

[0084] Various implementation schemes or features may be presented as systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that various systems may include additional devices, components, modules, etc. and / or may exclude all devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Combinations of these methods may also be used.

[0085] The various illustrative logics, logic blocks, and actions of the methods described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed by a specially programmed one of a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computer devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Additionally, at least one processor may include one or more components operable to perform one or more of the steps and / or actions described above.

[0086] Furthermore, the steps and / or actions of the methods or procedures described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to a processor such that the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be integrated with the processor. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the processor and storage medium may reside in an ASIC. Additionally, the ASIC may reside in a user terminal. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium may reside as discrete components in the user terminal. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the steps and / or actions of the method or process may reside as one or any combination or set of code and / or instructions on a machine-readable medium and / or a computer-readable medium that may be incorporated into a computer program product.

[0087] In one or more embodiments, the described functionality may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functionality may be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Non-transitory computer-readable media excludes transient signals. Storage media may be any available medium accessible to a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible to a processor. As used herein, disks and optical discs include compact optical discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile optical discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, wherein disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs typically reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0088] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described with reference to examples herein, those skilled in the art will understand that variations and modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on considerations in the specification or practice with reference to the examples disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A sensing device configured to detect an identifier from a tag associated with an item; A computer system comprising one or more memories and one or more processors, the one or more memories storing computer-executable instructions, the one or more processors being coupled to the one or more memories and configured individually or in combination to: Stores the state of items, with each item associated with a tag and identifier; as well as The image is selected based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the item; as well as A holographic display configured to project the image.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image is a series of images.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the image comprises an image of the item.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein, in order to select the image, the one or more processors are configured individually or in combination to: Determine the value of the item; and The image is selected based on the value of the item.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a video screen configured to display additional information associated with the item.

7. A method comprising: The identifier is detected from the tag associated with the item by a sensing device; The status of the item is determined based on the label; The image is selected based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the item; as well as The image is displayed on a holographic display.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the image is a series of images.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the image comprises an image of the item.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein selecting the image comprises: Determine the value of the item; as well as The image is selected based on the value of the item.

12. The method of claim 7, further comprising displaying additional information associated with the item on a video screen.

13. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: Enables the sensing device to detect identifiers from tags associated with the item; The status of the item is determined based on the label; The image is selected based on the position of the sensing device and the state of the item; as well as The image is displayed on the holographic display.

14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag or an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag.

15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the image is a series of images.

16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the image comprises an image of the article.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the instructions for selecting the image include instructions for: Determine the value of the item; and The image is selected based on the value of the item.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13, further comprising instructions for displaying additional information associated with the article on a video screen.

Images