Merchandise display security system and method

Abstract

A merchandise security system and method are provided. In one embodiment, the merchandise security system includes a plurality of security devices arranged in a wireless network, the plurality of security devices arranged according to a planogram, each configured to protect one or more items from theft, and each configured to wirelessly communicate data with a remote device. The system also includes a plurality of electronic keys arranged in the wireless network and wirelessly communicating data with the plurality of security devices and / or the remote device. Each of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to operate the plurality of security devices. The system also includes a gateway that receives data from the plurality of security devices and the plurality of electronic keys via wireless communication, the gateway configured to communicate the data to a remote computing device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 844,551, filed May 7, 2019, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 854,160, filed May 29, 2019, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 855,433, filed May 31, 2019, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 861,625, filed June 14, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 909,506, filed October 2, 2019.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to merchandise display security systems, devices, computer program products and methods for protecting items of merchandise from theft and / or the exchange of various types of information within a wireless network. [Background technology]

[0003] It is common for retailers to display relatively small, relatively high-value merchandise items in security packaging commonly referred to as "safers" on security devices such as display hooks or display fixtures or otherwise on a display surface. The security device or safer displays the item so that potential buyers can examine the item when deciding whether to purchase it. However, the small size and relatively high value of the item make it an easy target for shoplifters, who may attempt to remove the item from the security device or, alternatively, remove the security device from the display area and make off with the merchandise. The merchandise item may be secured using a display stand to allow a user to test the item for potential purchase. In some cases, the security device is secured to the display support using a lock operated by a key, e.g., a mechanical lock. In other cases, the security device is secured to the display support using a lock operated by an electronic key to arm and disarm the security device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Various embodiments of merchandise security systems, devices, and methods are provided. In one example, the merchandise security system includes a plurality of security devices arranged in a wireless network, the plurality of security devices arranged according to a planogram, each configured to protect one or more items from theft, and each configured to wirelessly communicate data with a remote device. The system also includes a plurality of electronic keys arranged in the wireless network and configured to wirelessly communicate data with the plurality of security devices and / or the remote device. Each of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to operate the plurality of security devices. The system also includes a gateway configured to receive data from the plurality of security devices and the plurality of electronic keys via wireless communication, the gateway configured to communicate the data to the remote computing device.

[0005] In another embodiment, a method for protecting items from theft is provided. The method includes a plurality of security devices wirelessly communicating within a wireless network, the plurality of security devices being arranged according to a planogram, each configured to protect one or more items from theft. The method also includes a plurality of electronic keys wirelessly communicating within the network, each of the plurality of security devices wirelessly communicating data. The method further includes a hub that wirelessly receives data and information related to the planogram and a hub that wirelessly communicates data and information related to the planogram to a remote computing device.

[0006] In one embodiment, a merchandise security system includes a plurality of security devices, each configured to protect one or more items from theft. One or more of the plurality of security devices includes a tag containing data related to the identity of the security device. The security system also includes a plurality of electronic keys configured to wirelessly communicate with the plurality of security devices for operating the plurality of security devices, each of the plurality of electronic keys configured to retrieve data from each of the plurality of security devices. The security system further includes a remote computing device configured to receive data from the plurality of electronic keys via wireless communication and assign a plurality of tags to each of the plurality of electronic keys for operating the plurality of security devices.

[0007] In another embodiment, a method for protecting items from theft is provided. The method includes a plurality of security devices, each configured to protect one or more items from theft, one or more of the plurality of security devices comprising a tag containing data related to the identity of the security device. The method also includes a plurality of electronic keys in wireless communication with the plurality of security devices for operating the plurality of security devices and for obtaining data from each of the plurality of security devices. The method further includes a remote computing device that wirelessly receives data from the plurality of electronic keys and assigns a plurality of tags to each of the plurality of electronic keys that operate the plurality of security devices.

[0008] Inventory sensors, systems, and methods for merchandise items are provided. In one embodiment, the inventory detector system includes at least one sensor configured to transmit a wireless signal that detects the presence of one or more merchandise items on a retail fixture. The inventory detector system also includes a monitoring device configured to wirelessly communicate with the sensor to determine that the merchandise items are not present on the retail fixture.

[0009] Provided are security systems and methods for protecting retail display merchandise from theft. For example, the security system includes a sensor configured to be attached to a merchandise item and a monitoring component configured to wirelessly communicate with the sensor, the monitoring component and the sensor configured to communicate with each other to determine a proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component, and the monitoring component and / or the sensor configured to initiate a security signal based on the proximity.

[0010] In another embodiment, a method for securing an item of merchandise from theft is provided. The method includes communicating between a monitoring component and a sensor, the sensor being attached to the item of merchandise, the monitoring component and the sensor being configured to communicate with each other using their respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers. The method also includes initiating a first security signal at the monitoring component and / or the sensor based on a proximity of the monitoring component to the sensor.

[0011] In another embodiment, there is provided a security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft. The security system includes a sensor configured to be attached to the item of merchandise, the sensor comprising a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver. The security system also includes a monitoring component comprising the magnetic emitter and / or the magnetic receiver for communicating with the sensor, the monitoring component and the sensor configured to communicate with each other using their respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers to determine whether to initiate a security signal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a merchandise security system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a merchandise security system according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a key communicating with a remote device via the cloud, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4]1 illustrates multiple keys with different permission levels, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an electronic key, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the electronic key shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an electronic key according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the electronic key shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an electronic key according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the electronic key shown in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a merchandise security device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electronic key according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the electronic key shown in FIG. [Figure 14] 1A-1D are perspective views of a merchandise security device in locked and unlocked positions according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] 1A-1C are perspective views of a merchandise security device in locked and unlocked positions according to another embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a charging station, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the charging station shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] 1 illustrates a merchandise security system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] 1 illustrates an electronic key in communication with a computing device, according to one embodiment. [Figure 20] 10A-10C show top and bottom perspective views of an electronic key according to another embodiment. [Figure 21] 21A and 21B show a plan view and a side view of the electronic key shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a programming or authorization station, according to one embodiment. [Figure 23]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the program or authorization station shown in FIG. 22. [Figure 24] 23 is another perspective view of the program or authorization station shown in FIG. 22. [Figure 25] 1 is a schematic diagram of multiple sensor and alarm nodes communicating in a wireless network according to one embodiment; [Figure 26] 1 is a schematic diagram of infrastructure and security devices in a wireless network according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 27] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 30] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 31] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 32] 10 illustrates various security devices configured for use in a wireless network, according to additional embodiments. [Figure 33] 1 illustrates a security device configured for use in a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 34] 1 illustrates a security device configured for use in a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 35] 1 illustrates a security device configured for use in a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 36] 1 illustrates a security device configured for use in a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 37] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 38] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 39] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 40] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 41] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 42] 1 is a perspective view of a system of a wireless network, according to one embodiment. [Figure 43] 1 is a perspective view of an inventory detector system according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 44] 1A-1C illustrate various views of a sensor in communication with a remote device according to an embodiment of the present invention of an inventory detector system. [Figure 45] 1A-1C illustrate various views of a sensor in communication with a remote device according to an embodiment of the present invention of an inventory detector system. [Figure 46] 1A-1C illustrate various views of a sensor in communication with a remote device according to an embodiment of the present invention of an inventory detector system. [Figure 47] 44 is an exemplary diagram of a remote device displaying various data related to the inventory detector system of FIG. 43. [Figure 48] 44 is an exemplary diagram of a remote device displaying various data related to the inventory detector system of FIG. 43. [Figure 49] FIG. 44 is a schematic diagram illustrating a registration process for sensors of the inventory detector system of FIG. 43 according to one embodiment. [Figure 50] 44 illustrates the sensors of the inventory detector system of FIG. 43 configured for use on various retail fixtures. [Figure 51] 1 is an exemplary sensor of an inventory detector system, according to one embodiment. [Figure 52] 1 is a perspective view of a security system configured to protect merchandise items in a retail display from theft, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 53] FIG. 53 is a plan view of the alarm module of the monitoring device and security system shown in FIG. 52. [Figure 54]FIG. 53 is a plan view of a sensor and power adapter configured for use with the security system shown in FIG. 52, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 55] FIG. 53 is an exploded view of an alarm module and connector configured for use with the security system shown in FIG. 52, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a side view of the alarm module shown in FIG. 55. [Figure 57] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the connector and alarm module shown in FIG. 55 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 58] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a security system configured to protect merchandise items from theft from a retail display, according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a side view of the security system shown in FIG. 58. [Figure 60] FIG. 59 is a perspective view showing the sensor and merchandise item removed from the display stand of the security system shown in FIG. 58. [Figure 61] FIG. 59 is a top view of the sensors and merchandise items removed from the display stand of the security system shown in FIG. 58. [Figure 62] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a security system configured to protect merchandise items in a retail display from theft, according to another embodiment of the present invention, with the merchandise items removed for clarity. [Figure 63] FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the display stand of the security system shown in FIG. 62 with the outer cover of the display stand removed for clarity purposes. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is an exploded perspective view of the display stand and sensor of the security system shown in FIG. 63 with the merchandise items removed for clarity. [Figure 65] 1 is a schematic plan view of an item of merchandise, according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 66] 1 is a schematic side view of an electronic merchandise item showing a removable battery cover and battery, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 67] 1 is a flowchart of a method for securing merchandise items from theft from a retail display, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 68] 1 is a flowchart of a method for securing merchandise items from theft from a retail display, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 69] 1 is a flowchart of another method for securing merchandise items from theft in a retail display, according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The following disclosure includes various embodiments of systems, devices, methods, and computer program products. Some disclosed embodiments are configured for use in a wireless network, for wireless inventory control, and / or for wirelessly tracking items in an environment. It should be understood that any combination of the embodiments disclosed herein is contemplated. Thus, discussion of one particular embodiment is not intended to exclude any other embodiments.

[0014] 1-42, one or more embodiments of a merchandise display security system are shown. In the embodiments shown and described herein, the system includes an electronic key and a merchandise security device. Merchandise security devices suitable for use with the electronic key include, but are not limited to, security displays (e.g., alarm stands or devices), security fixtures (e.g., locking hooks, shelves, cabinets, etc.), cabinet locks, door locks, cable wraps, cable locks, or security packaging for merchandise items (e.g., merchandise keepers). However, an electronic key (referred to herein as a programmable key or generally a key) may be used with any security or locking device that utilizes power transferred from the key to operate mechanical and / or electronic locking mechanisms and / or utilizes data transferred from the key to operate locking mechanisms and / or arm or disarm alarm circuits. In other words, an electronic key can be used with any security or locking device that requires power transferred from the device to the key and / or data transferred from the key to the device. Further examples of security and locking devices include, but are not limited to, door locks, drawer locks, or shelf locks, and any device that prevents unauthorized persons from accessing, removing, or removing items from a secured area or location. Although the following discussion relates to a system for use in retail stores, it will be understood that the system is also suitable for other industries, such as hospitals, restaurants, etc.In some embodiments, the merchandise security systems, merchandise security devices, and electronic keys are similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0047972, entitled "Electronic Key for Merchandise Security Device," U.S. Patent No. 10,258,172, entitled "Systems and Methods for Acquiring Data from Articles of Merchandise on Display," U.S. Patent No. 10,210,681, entitled "Merchandise Display Security Systems and Methods," U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0365948, entitled "Tethered Security System with Wireless Communication," and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0335859, entitled "Systems and Methods for Remotely Controlling Security Devices," the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a system 10. In this embodiment, the system generally includes an electronic key 12, one or more merchandise security devices 14, a programming or authorization station 16, and a charging station 18. FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of the system 10 that is part of a network of merchandise security devices. According to some embodiments, the network enables communication between multiple electronic keys and merchandise security devices. The network may be cloud-based and may include a cloud 22 for receiving data from and / or providing data to the electronic keys and / or merchandise security devices. The cloud 22 may facilitate data transfer to one or more remote locations or devices 26 (e.g., tablets or computers) that may review and analyze the data. The remote devices 26 may be located in any desired location, such as within the same retail store as the security device 14 and / or electronic key 12. In some cases, the remote devices 26 may be owned by a retail store associate or by a back-end computer used by the retailer or company. The network may be a wireless network including multiple nodes 20, one or more electronic keys 12, and / or one or more merchandise security devices 14 configured to communicate with each other. The network may be any suitable network for facilitating wireless communication, such as a mesh, star, multi-star, repeater, IoT, or other network. Nodes 20 and / or security devices 14 may be located within one or more zones. In some cases, nodes and security devices may be integrated with one another, with the security device acting as a node. A gateway 24 or hub or "host" may be used to facilitate communication between one or more nodes 20 and the cloud 22. In some embodiments, all communication within the network is wireless, such as via radio frequency signals (e.g., sub-GHz ISM band or 2.4 GHz), Bluetooth, LoRa, and Wi-Fi, although other types of wireless communication may be possible.

[0016] In some embodiments, each merchandise security device 14 and / or electronic key 12 is configured to store various types of data. For example, each merchandise security device 14 and / or key 12 may store one or more merchandise security device 14 serial numbers, one or more merchandise item serial numbers, the date and time of data and key activation, the user of the key, the key serial number, the security device location, the merchandise item location, the department number within the retail store, the number of key activations, the type of activation (e.g., "naked" activation, activation transferring only data, activation transferring power, activation transferring data and power), and / or various events (e.g., merchandise security device being locked, unlocked, armed, or disarmed). For example, FIG. 3 illustrates that the identity of the user of the electronic key 12 may be communicated to the remote location or device 26. This information may be transmitted to the remote location or device 26 upon each activation of the key 12 or at any other desired interval, such as upon communication with a programming or authorization station 16. Thus, data transfer from the electronic key 12 and / or security device 14 may occur in real time or automatically in some embodiments. In some cases, the electronic key 12, security device 14, and / or programming station 16 may be configured to store data and transfer the data to a remote location or device 26. Authorized personnel may use this data to perform various actions using the remote device, such as auditing and monitoring store clerk activity, authorizing or disauthorizing a particular key 12, determining the battery life of a key 12, auditing the merchandise security device 14 (e.g., ensuring the security device is locked or armed), arming or disarming the security device, locking or unlocking the security device, locking or unlocking a sensor 25 attached to a merchandise item relative to a base or stand 35 that removably supports the sensor (see, e.g., FIG. 30 ).Additionally, such information may be requested and obtained on demand using a remote device, such as from the electronic key 12, the security device 14 and / or the programming station 16.

[0017] In some cases, the data may include a battery analysis of the electronic key 12. For example, the battery analysis may include monitoring the key's battery voltage when the electronic key 12 is placed in the charging station 18 and the time it takes to reach a full charge. These values ​​may be used to determine the depth of discharge. The battery analysis may indicate a battery that is nearing the end of its life. A retailer or other authorized personnel may use this information to take various actions, such as replacing the key or disabling the key to prevent a swollen battery and failure to accommodate.

[0018] In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 is configured to retrieve data from a merchandise security device 14 (e.g., a security fixture). For example, the merchandise security device 14 can store various data (e.g., key identification, communication time, etc.) regarding past communications with a previous electronic key 12, and the data is transferred to the electronic key the next time the electronic key communicates with the same merchandise security device. Accordingly, the merchandise security device 14 can include memory for storing such data. In some cases, the merchandise security device 14 includes a power source for receiving and storing data, while in other cases, power provided by the electronic key 12 is used to enable the merchandise security device to store the data. The electronic key 12 can then communicate the data for collection and review, such as at a remote location or device 26. In some cases, communication between the electronic key 12 and a program or authorization station 16 can enable data to be pulled from the electronic key and communicated to the remote location or device 26, etc. In other cases, the electronic key 12 may be configured to obtain data from the merchandise security device 14 (e.g., a security display), such as the identification of the merchandise security device, the type of merchandise item on the display, the identification of the merchandise item, and / or the system health of the security device and / or merchandise item. The electronic key 12 may store the data and provide the data to a remote location or device 26 directly, or upon communication with a programming or authorization station 16. Thus, the electronic key 12 may be a useful resource for obtaining various types of data from the merchandise security device 14 without requiring a wired connection or complex wireless network or system.

[0019] In one embodiment, the security device 14 may communicate its identifier using various technologies. For example, in some cases, the security device 14 may have memory configured to store a serial number and may communicate the serial number to the electronic key 12 using two-way communication. If the security device 14 does not have memory, power, and / or the capability for two-way communication (e.g., a cable wrap or lock hook), the security device may have an RFID tag, NFC tag, or the like that stores the security device's identifier (e.g., a serial number). Such security devices may be similar to those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,133,649, entitled "Merchandise Security Devices for Use with an Electronic Key," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some examples, the tag may be attachable to an existing security device 14 so as to be easily compatible with current devices, or the tag may be integrated within the security device. The electronic key 12 may be configured to deliver power to the tag to read the tag's identifier, such as for a passive tag, although the tag may be a passive or active tag. The electronic key 12 can store several authorized identifiers in memory (e.g., via a lookup table) and determine whether the identifier to be retrieved is within that memory. Alternatively, the electronic key 12 can be configured to wirelessly connect to a network device 26 that has a lookup table. The electronic key 12 itself or the network device 26 can then determine whether a particular key or the user of that key is authorized to unlock the security device 14 whose identifier was retrieved. The identifier can be unique to the security device 14 or can be a more general identifier, such as a department, such as "six-sided box" or "healthcare," or all of the above. Only once authorization is obtained can the electronic key deliver power to the security device 14 and successfully operate and unlock the lock.If authorization is not granted, the electronic key 12 will not continue the cycle and the lock will never be unlocked. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may be configured to communicate with any type of security device 14 to perform various audits, zone control, and planogram analysis based on the identity of the security device.

[0020] In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 and security device 14 may communicate with each other and transmit data via NFC when the key and security device are positioned near or in direct contact with each other. An NFC tag may include various components, such as an antenna or coil and one or more chips that define an electrical circuit. The antenna may be used to achieve communication with the electronic key 12, which may be activated via a magnetic field. For example, a magnetic field may be generated by the electronic key 12 to communicate with the NFC tag.

[0021] In some embodiments where the electronic key 12 is configured to inductively transfer power as described further below and has the ability to communicate using NFC or RFID, the key's inductive coil may be configured to use the same coil for data transfer and power transmission. In some cases, the electronic key 12 is configured to switch the coil between an energy transfer mode and an NFC or RFID receiver circuit. In other examples, multiple security devices 14 may be "nested" with one another, such that authorization of one of the nested security devices results in the disarming or unlocking of all of the security devices. For example, multiple locks may be paired with one another so that successful communication between any one of the locks and the electronic key 12 results in the unlocking of all of the locks.

[0022] In some embodiments, the merchandise security device 14 includes wireless capabilities for communicating within a network. For example, the merchandise security device may wirelessly communicate with merchandise items, electronic keys 12, remote devices, and / or nodes, including but not limited to, communicating various types of data discussed herein. Thus, in some cases, the remote device may communicate directly with the security device 14 and / or electronic key 12.

[0023] An embodiment of such a wireless system includes various types of wireless networks that can be used with the embodiments disclosed herein. In some cases, the wireless system includes fully integrated hardware, software, and data analytics, which effectively eliminates or negligible additional hardware costs for all-in-one data solutions—all other features remaining constant. In some embodiments, the wireless system is configured to adapt to market changes where an increasing number of smartphones incorporate Qi-based inductive charging and exposed data ports no longer exist. For example, in an embodiment where security device 14 includes sensor 25 and base or stand 35 (see, e.g., FIG. 30 ), the sensor may utilize Qi technology, such as a Qi coil configured to communicate with a corresponding coil within a merchandise item. Additionally, an embodiment of the wireless system may be configured to provide a common wireless interface and IP gateway for future networked products incorporating the various wireless networks discussed herein. Various operating modes can be implemented according to wireless system embodiments. In one example, a non-IP connection mode can be used, allowing customers who choose not to subscribe to the SaaS service to implement security features independent of the wireless system's display merchandising and connection to an IP-enabled network. Another mode may include an IP-connected mode that may provide information such as local store-level security arming settings, power status, and alarm activity for alarm alerts. Additionally, this mode may provide access to other web applications such as product documentation, product videos, product selector guides, and support contact information. An additional mode may be an IP-connected network, including a SaaS subscription service that allows access to the full capabilities of the wireless system, including data communication between the various devices described herein.

[0024] In some embodiments, wireless communication may occur using a dedicated wireless network; for example, each security device 14 may be configured to communicate with a central hub in a star network configuration. Each security device 14 may include a transceiver (e.g., a sub-gigabit transceiver) configured to communicate data to and from a common central hub or “host” 24, such as the various types of information and data discussed herein, as well as information regarding power status and security breaches for the host, without requiring a separate data connection to a smart hub or controller. It is understood that any number of nodes 20 may be used to facilitate communication between security devices 14 and a host, such as one or more local nodes. In one embodiment, each security device 14 is configured to communicate its power and security status, security breaches (alarm notifications), and various other identification data of the security device and / or merchandise items to the host 24. In some embodiments, an entire retail store may be served by a single host 24 without the need for repeaters, effectively limiting the number of security devices in the network. In one embodiment, the host 24 may be configured to generate a security signal, such as an audible and / or visual alarm signal. In some cases, the volume of the security signal is adjustable. The security devices are configured to send a signal to the host 24 when any security device 14 detects a security event. The retailer has the option to select the level of notification of the security event, such as a loud audible alarm, a lower volume audible notification, or no audible alarm notification. Among other features, the system may include the ability to program alarm notifications. For example, the retailer may select a silent alert, a light alert, and an audible alert with adjustable volume and tone, or a combination of these alerts. Additionally, the host 24 may be configured to indicate a security breach by changing color (e.g., from gold to red and / or flashing intermittently).The audible and visual alert signals may be used independently or together.

[0025] As discussed herein, the electronic key 12 may be incorporated into various system embodiments. The electronic key 12 may be configured to disable any alarm security devices 14 after a security event. However, the host 24 may be configured to continue transmitting a security signal until the security device 14 is re-armed. Furthermore, disabling the security signal on the host 24 may not affect the armed state of the remaining security devices 14 in the store; i.e., the security devices may operate one-to-one in all respects except for generating security signals. Of course, various types of electronic keys 12 as disclosed herein may also affect secure applications available on smartphones, tablets, or PCs.

[0026] In some embodiments, preemptive disarming of merchandise items for resale or nightly removal of items from associated security devices 14 may be used. For example, a retailer's remote device 26 or other device may be configured to automatically disarm one or more security devices 14 for a predetermined period of time. In some cases, a secure software application may allow for the temporary suspension of alerts for a specific location of a security device 14 for a programmable period of time for resale. Once disarmed, the security device's transceiver ceases communication until it is rearmed. A customer operating in "non-IP connected" mode may choose to silence the audible alarm of the security device 14 when reselling, so that the audible alarm does not sound, but the host may continue to generate a signal (e.g., a light signal) until all security devices are rearmed.

[0027] As described herein, embodiments of the present invention may utilize a variety of wireless network configurations. In some cases, a common architecture requires two different network topologies. The first network may be a private wireless network dedicated to security devices 14 deployed in-store. This network is separate from any private or public networks operated by the retailer. The second network may be an IP gateway between the private network and the Internet. This second network may be a connection on the retailer's managed network or may be via a cellular modem. The gateway may be integrated into the host or may be a separate device that connects to the host.

[0028] In some embodiments, the private network may be commonly used by all security devices 14 for internal data transfer and may minimize frequency congestion on the retailer's managed network. Furthermore, in one example, the private network is actually configured as a "star network," with multiple individual nodes 20 performing individual functions and collecting and providing data. This data is transmitted wirelessly to a common "host" for aggregation. The host enables the nodes 20 providing data wirelessly over the private network to deliver functionality and value to customers, such as functional alerts and reports, independent of an internet connection to a cloud-based application. In one implementation, the host, rather than the security devices 14, is configured to provide notifications (e.g., in response to security events) via audio, visual, and / or tactile responses.

[0029] Various issues may be considered regarding private networks. For example, when selecting an appropriate common network architecture for a private network, the required data packet size and data rate, required wireless range, potential for interference, power consumption, size, and / or cost of the network may be considered. Some applications may use intermittent transmission of small data packets without requiring higher data rates, which may benefit from a network requiring low power and long data range. Examples of private networks include various RF networks such as Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz), Bluetooth (2.4 GHz), and sub-GHz (below 1.0 GHz) ISM band networks. Some network stacks (control software), such as ZigBee and Lora, can operate on sub-GHz and 2.4 GHz networks.

[0030] Another exemplary embodiment of a wireless network system includes various types of security devices 14 and electronic keys 12 that may cooperate with one or more nodes 20, hubs 24, and / or remote devices 26 in the wireless network (see, e.g., FIGS. 26-42). Various types of security devices 14, as disclosed herein, may be used in the system. For example, the security device 14 may include a sensor configured to be attached to an item (e.g., via adhesive and / or a bracket). In some implementations, the sensor may be connected to a base or stand 35 with a tether 45 (see, e.g., FIGS. 30-32), or in some cases, no tether may be used (see, e.g., FIGS. 32-33). Sensor 25 may take many different forms, such as, for example, a standalone sensor (see, e.g., FIG. 36), a "chair back" sensor (see, e.g., FIG. 33), a sensor that provides power and security for the merchandise item (e.g., via a connector such as USB-C, micro USB, etc.) (see, e.g., FIG. 35), and / or a sensor that provides security only (e.g., a sensor including a plunger switch) (see, e.g., FIG. 34). Similarly, base 35 used to removably support sensor 25 may also take different forms (e.g., a chair back sensor used with electrical contacts for transferring power between the sensor and the base; see, e.g., FIG. 33). Of course, security device 14 may be used in a variety of industries, such as retail stores, and with a variety of items, such as merchandise or commercial items (e.g., tablet computers).

[0031] As shown in Figures 27-29, various numbers and types of security devices 14 may be configured to communicate with each other within a network, such as the private wireless network discussed above. A host or hub 24 may be configured to communicate with each of the multiple security devices 14 within the network to provide various security signals, as disclosed herein. An interface may be provided to the hub 24 to facilitate communication with the electronic key 12. Figure 27 illustrates an example in which multiple security devices 14 and the hub 24 are configured to communicate within an IP network, which may enable the system to provide various information and alerts (e.g., system health, power status, alarm status, and / or inventory information) to one or more remote devices 26. Additionally, Figure 28 illustrates an example similar to Figure 27, but in which the system includes additional features via SaaS subscription to enterprise software, such as planogram (“POG”) compliance information, consumer activity, programmable KPIs, inventory replenishment thresholds, and / or inventory POG compliance. 30-31 show various depictions of multiple security devices 14 in the form of sensors and bases configured to communicate with a hub 24, as well as a remote device 26 configured to receive notifications from the hub (e.g., that the security device has no power or that a breach has occurred). Additionally, FIGS. 37-42 show embodiments of security devices 14 in the form of locks configured to communicate with the hub 24 in a wireless network. In these examples, a customer may be able to notify a sales associate and then request assistance (e.g., via a call button on the security device 14) that allows the sales associate to engage the customer or control the security device 14 via an electronic key 12 or a remote device 26. The retail associate can use the electronic key 12 to unlock the security device 14 for the customer (see, e.g., FIG. 38) or use a remote device to unlock the security device.In some cases, a customer's mobile phone may perform some of the functions disclosed herein ("trusted customer"), such as unlocking the security device 14 in response to receiving a wireless authorization signal (see, e.g., FIG. 39). For example, a trusted customer may be a customer who purchases and retrieves an item in a store, or may be someone who has an account with the retailer and purchases an item using the customer's mobile device. Additionally, various data may be collected about the security device 14, such as the type of product removed from a cabinet or drawer secured by a lock, allowing alerts to be provided to one or more remote devices (see, e.g., FIG. 40). The security device 14 may be configured to automatically relock after being authorized to open and accessing a merchandise item (see, e.g., FIG. 41), and various technologies may be used to track merchandise items being added to or removed from the cabinet or drawer, such as an RFID scanner configured to scan products as they are added to or removed from the cabinet or drawer (see, e.g., FIG. 42).

[0032] In other embodiments, and as discussed in more detail below, inventory information may be obtained regarding merchandise on security devices 14, such as lock hooks, information regarding merchandise items being removed from security devices (e.g., cabinets), and remote devices 26 may be used to obtain various types of information and provide various types of commands to control security devices and / or merchandise items. Wireless system embodiments disclosed herein may provide real-time who / what / when / where / why / how reporting regarding devices 14 and merchandise items, may be responsive / interactive, may shift from an in-retail security focus to enable an omnichannel experience, may facilitate trusted customer engagement with security assets, may allow for easy system customization and expansion, may enable alternative business models such as a SaaS model, and may connect a local network of connected assets to a central hub for local computing and / or connect the hub to a cloud platform for providing alerts, reporting, system management, and day-to-day operations. Embodiments may provide a platform infrastructure with one centralized hub per retail store and several connected end security device assets, such as stands, sensors, table managers, locks, cabinet sensors, inventory sensors, and customer dwell sensors, all communicating with the hub. In some embodiments, due to the flexibility of the wireless system, customers do not need to pre-select which security devices 14 to purchase because the platform infrastructure is common. Additionally, remote devices 26 and mobile devices used by retailers allow retailers and store associates to dynamically interact with security devices 14 to make real-time decisions, such as responding to security events, replenishing out-of-stock inventory, or responding to customer requests for assistance with stationary merchandise items.

[0033] In some cases, each electronic key 12 may be authorized for a specific location, department, or merchandise security device. For example, FIG. 4 shows that a manager may have authorization for all zones, locations, departments, or merchandise security devices (designated numbers 1 through 6), while a first store clerk may only have authorization for two zones, locations, departments, or merchandise security devices (designated numbers 4 and 5), and a second store clerk may only have authorization for one zone, location, department, or merchandise security device (designated number 6). Thus, a retail store or other store may limit the scope of authorization for different store clerks within the same retail store. To accommodate different authorization levels, each key 12 may be configured to store a code associated with each zone, location, department, or merchandise security device. For example, each zone may include multiple merchandise security devices 14, and a retail store may have multiple zones (e.g., an electronics zone, a jewelry zone, etc.).

[0034] Various techniques may be used to initially program the electronic key 12. For example, the electronic key 12 may be initially presented to each authorized merchandise security device 14. Upon communicating with the security device 14 or the cloud 22, the electronic key 12 is paired with each security device. The programming station 16 may provide a code to the electronic key 12, which may then communicate the code to each of its authorized security devices 14. Each key 12 may only need to be programmed once. In some embodiments, a programming station 16 may be located within each zone, and the key 12 may receive a code from each programming station to which it is authorized. Thereafter, each key 12 may need to be “refreshed” at the programming station 16 or charging station 18 after a period of time or upon revocation, as described in various embodiments herein. In other embodiments, the electronic key 12 may be programmed directly via the cloud 22.

[0035] In another embodiment, each electronic key 12 may include the security code and serial number of one or more merchandise security devices 14. For example, the key 12 may only be able to arm, disarm, lock, or unlock merchandise security devices 14 whose security code and serial number match. In one embodiment, each serial number is unique for the merchandise security device 14 and can be programmed at the time of manufacture or by the retailer. This technique allows for greater flexibility in programming the key 12 and assigning the key to a specific merchandise security device 14 and / or zone. In one embodiment, a setup electronic key 12'' may be used to initially map a specific merchandise security device 14 and serial number. In this regard, the setup key 12'' may be used to communicate with each key 12 to obtain the serial number of each merchandise security device 14. The setup key 12'' may also be able to obtain the location of the security device 14, or the user of the setup key may be able to provide a description of each merchandise security device (e.g., SN#123 = merchandise security device #1). The setup key 12'' may communicate with a tablet or other computing device 26 to accumulate all information that may occur via wired or wireless communication (see, e.g., FIGS. 3 and 19). Thus, the tablet or computing device 26 may map each of the serial numbers with the merchandise security device 14, and in some cases may also include the serial numbers and corresponding electronic keys 12. Each electronic key 12 may then be assigned a specific serial number for the authorized merchandise security device 14 (e.g., user 1 includes serial numbers 1, 2, and 3, and user 2 includes serial numbers 1, 4, and 5). Each of the electronic keys 12 may be programmed with the same security code using the programming station 16. In some embodiments, the setup process may be used in conjunction with a planogram of the merchandise security device 14.A planogram may represent the layout of merchandise security devices 14 within a retail store or other store. For example, a setup key 12'' may be used to map serial numbers to unique merchandise security devices 14 on the planogram as the setup key communicates with each merchandise security device. The setup key 12'' may communicate with a tablet or other computing device 26 to populate the planogram with serial numbers via a wired connection (see, e.g., FIG. 19). This planogram may be uploaded to a remote location or device to manage the planogram and ensure planogram compliance based on information exchanged between the security device 14 and the remote device 26. As described above, specific serial numbers may be assigned to authorized users.

[0036] To arm, disarm, lock, or unlock the merchandise security device 14, the electronic key 12 may communicate with a particular merchandise security device to determine if the security code and serial number match. If the codes match, the electronic key 12 then arm, disarm, lock, or unlock the merchandise security device 14. Because the key can be programmed in real time with the appropriate authorization level for that user (e.g., specific zones, departments, and / or merchandise security devices), any available electronic key can be used at the time the electronic key 12 is refreshed and / or when the user requests an electronic key via the programming or authorization station 16.

[0037] In one embodiment, the merchandise display security system 10 includes an electronic key 12 and a merchandise security device 14 configured to be operated by the key. The system may further include an optional programming station 16 operable to program the key 12 with a security code, sometimes referred to herein as a security disarm code (SDC). In addition to the programming station 16, the system may further include an optional charging station 18 operable to initially charge and / or subsequently recharge a power source located within the key 12. For example, the key 12 and the merchandise security device 14 may each be programmed with the same SDC in their respective permanent memories. The key 12 may include a disposable (i.e., non-rechargeable) power source, such as a conventional or long-life battery, or alternatively, the key may include a multiple-use (i.e., rechargeable) power source, such as a conventional capacitor or rechargeable battery. In either case, the power source may be permanent, semi-permanent (i.e., replaceable), or rechargeable, as desired. In the latter case, a charging station 18 is provided for initially charging and / or subsequently recharging the power source provided within the key 12. Additionally, the key 12 and / or merchandise security device 14 may include only temporary memory such that the SDC must be programmed (reprogrammed) at predetermined time intervals. In this case, a programming station 16 is provided for initially programming and / or subsequently reprogramming the SDC into the key 12. As described below, the key 12 may be operable to initially program and / or subsequently reprogram the merchandise security device 14 with the SDC. And, as described below, the key 12 is further operable to operate the merchandise security device 14 by transferring power and / or data to the device.

[0038] In the exemplary embodiment of the system shown in FIGS. 1-2, the electronic key 12 is configured to be programmed with a unique SDC by the programming station 16. In some embodiments, the key 12 is presented to the programming station 16, and communication therebetween is initiated, for example, by pressing or otherwise activating a control button 28 provided on the exterior of the key. Communication between the programming station 16 and the key 12 can be achieved directly, for example, by one or more electrical contacts, or indirectly, for example, by wireless communication. Any form of wireless communication capable of transferring data between the programming station 16 and the key 12 is also possible, including, but not limited to, optical transmission, acoustic transmission, or magnetic induction. In some embodiments shown and described herein, communication between the programming station 16 and the key 12 is achieved by wireless optical transmission, and more specifically, by infrared (IR) transceivers provided on the programming station and the key. In some embodiments, the programming station 16 may function similarly to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,737,844, entitled "PROGRAMMING STATION FOR A SECURITY SYSTEM FOR PROTECTING MERCHANDISE," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For purposes of describing some embodiments of the present invention, it is sufficient that the programming station include at least logic control circuitry for generating or providing an SDC, memory for storing the SDC, and a communications system suitable for interacting with the electronic key 12 in the manner described herein to program the key with the SDC.

[0039] An available feature of the merchandise security system 10, according to one embodiment, is that the electronic key 12 may include a timeout feature. More specifically, the ability of the key 12 to transfer data and / or power to the merchandise security device 14 may be deactivated after a predetermined period of time. For example, the electronic key 12 may be deactivated approximately 6 to approximately 24 hours after the time the key was programmed or last refreshed. In this manner, authorized sales personnel must typically program or refresh their assigned keys 12 at the start of each shift. Furthermore, the charging station 18 may be configured to deactivate the electronic key 12 when the key is positioned within or otherwise engaged with the charging port 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). In this manner, the charging station 18 may be available to authorized sales personnel. In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 may be authorized when the sales personnel enters an authorization code to release the key for use. For example, the sales personnel may enter the code on a keypad that communicates with the charging station 18. Upon entering the correct code, the charging station 18 may indicate (e.g., via an audible and / or visual indicator) which keys 12 the salesperson has authorized. In some cases, the timeout period may be predefined or customized by the user. For example, a retail store manager may enter a specific period for one or more of the electronic keys 12. These “active” electronic keys 12 may be monitored via communications within a cloud-based network. In other embodiments, an electronic key 12 may be timed out or otherwise disabled in response to an event. For example, an electronic key 12 may be disabled in response to the key being misplaced or stolen, or in response to the key being brought into a retail store where it is not authorized for use. Such disabling may alternatively occur via a command from the device 26 sent to the electronic key 12 via the cloud 22. In other cases, an electronic key 12 may be disabled in response to an inability to communicate with the network (e.g., at a specific time or time interval), a loss of connection to the network, and / or an inability to reconnect to the network.In another embodiment, the electronic key 12 may be disabled, for example, in response to the memory filling up with audit data.

[0040] In one embodiment, commands may be provided remotely to perform various actions. For example, in the event of a theft, a command may be provided from a remote location or device 26 (e.g., a tablet or computer) to lock and / or arm all or a portion of the merchandise security devices 14. Similarly, a command may be provided from a remote location or device 26 to deactivate all or a portion of the electronic key 12 and / or security devices 14. Thus, the system 10 provides techniques for centralized security and control of the electronic key 12, merchandise security devices 14, and other components within the system. As discussed above, the electronic key 12 may also be controlled remotely. Furthermore, in some embodiments, such requests or commands may be made by the remote device 26 for an individual security device 14 or multiple security devices (e.g., sending a command to lock all security devices in response to a security event). Furthermore, one or more of the security devices 14 may be configured to lock or arm in response to a security event (e.g., automatically locking a sensor attached to a merchandise item to a base removably supporting the sensor).

[0041] 5-6 illustrate one embodiment of the electronic key 12. The electronic key 12 may include a control button 28 for activating the key, such as to initiate communication with a merchandise security device. Additionally, the electronic key 12 may also include one or more visual indicators. In this regard, the key 12 may include one or more status indicators 32 that indicate the status of the key's communication with the merchandise security device 14. The status indicators 32 may guide the user as to when communication between the key 12 and the merchandise security device 14 is occurring and is complete. The status indicators 32 may differ depending on whether communication is authorized (e.g., unlocked or disarmed), unauthorized (e.g., in the wrong zone or department), or unsuccessful. The status indicators 32 may also indicate the amount of authorized use remaining on the key 12, such as if the key includes a timeout feature, as discussed above. The electronic key 12 may also include one or more other indicators 34 that provide a visual indication of the power remaining in the key. These other indicators 34 may be used for any other desired purpose, such as to indicate the programming status of the key 12. For example, the indicators 34 may be activated while the electronic key 12 is initially being programmed. It is understood that the status indicators 32, 34 shown are merely exemplary, as indicators of various types and configurations may be used in alternative embodiments.

[0042] FIGS. 7-10 illustrate additional embodiments of the electronic key 12. In these examples, the electronic key 12 includes a removable portion 36. In FIGS. 7-8, the removable portion 36 provides access to an input power port 38, such as for recharging the electronic key 12. The removable portion 36 may be configured to slide relative to the electronic key 12 to expose the input power port 38. The input port 38 may be configured to receive and electrically connect with a corresponding connector, such as a connector associated with a charging station 18. For example, the electronic key 12 may be configured to be docked within the charging station 18 for charging (see, for example, FIG. 1). As shown in FIGS. 9-10, the removable portion 36 may be configured to be completely detachable from the electronic key 12 and may be multipurpose in that it may include a tool portion 40. For example, the tool portion 40 may be used as a screwdriver or the like to facilitate disconnecting various connectors. The electronic key 12 may include an opening 42 defined to receive the removable portion 36 therein in an unused position.

[0043] 20-21 illustrate an additional embodiment of an electronic key 12′. In this embodiment, the electronic key 12′ includes one or more alignment features 15 to facilitate alignment with a programming or authorization station 16′ and / or a charging station 18′, as discussed in further detail below. Additionally, the electronic key 12′ includes an input port 17 (e.g., a micro-USB port) that can be configured to removably engage a corresponding port on the programming or authorization station 16′ and / or charging station 18′ for data and / or power transfer. Notably, in the example shown in FIG. 20 , the input port 17 on the electronic key 12′ is on the side, while a pair of alignment features 15 is provided on opposing surfaces of the electronic key. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21 , a single alignment feature 15 is provided. The input port 17 can be located on the side between the transfer port on one end and the keychain ring opening on the opposite end. Locating the input port 17 on the side of the electronic key 12′ can provide a more secure and stable attachment to the programming or authorization station 16′ and / or charging station 18′. A series of status indicators 32, 34, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), as discussed above, may be provided on the exterior of the electronic key 12' to indicate its operational status.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 1 , the programming station 16 comprises a housing configured to contain logic control circuitry for generating an SDC, memory for storing the SDC, and a communication system for communicating the SDC (e.g., wirelessly) to the key. During use, the logic control circuitry generates the SDC, which may be a predetermined (i.e., “factory preset”) security code, a manually entered security code, or a security code randomly generated by the logic control circuitry. In the latter case, the logic control circuitry further comprises a random number generator for generating unique SDCs. A series of visual indicators, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), may be provided on the exterior of the housing to indicate the operating status of the programming station 16. The programming station 16 may further comprise an access mechanism for preventing use of the programming station by unauthorized persons. For example, the programming station may include a keypad 44. An authorized user may enter a code on the keypad 44 that enables the programming station 16 to generate an SDC for communication to the key 12.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the logic control circuitry of the programming station 16 performs an electronic exchange of data with the key's logic control circuitry, commonly referred to as a "handshake communication protocol." The handshake communication protocol determines whether the key 12 is an authorized key that has not been previously programmed (e.g., a "new" key) or whether the key 12 is an authorized key that is being presented to the programming station 16 at a subsequent time to refresh its SDC. If the handshake communication protocol fails, the programming station 16 does not provide the SDC to an unauthorized device attempting to obtain it. If the handshake communication protocol is successful, the programming station 16 enables the key 12 to transmit the SDC. As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the SDC may be transmitted from the programming station 16 to the key 12 by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, wirelessly, by electrical contacts, or by electromechanical, electromagnetic, or magnetic conductors, as desired. Furthermore, in other cases, the programming station 16 may simply provide the SDC to the electronic key 12 without first initiating any handshake communication protocol.

[0046] In some embodiments, the merchandise security device 14 is a “passive” device. As used herein, the term passive is intended to mean that the security device 14 does not have an internal power source sufficient to lock and / or unlock a mechanical locking mechanism. Significant cost savings are realized by retailers when the merchandise security device 14 is passive, since the cost of the internal power source is limited to the key 12 and one such key can operate multiple security devices. If desired, the merchandise security device 14 may also include a temporary power source (e.g., a capacitor or limited-life battery) with sufficient power to activate an alarm, such as a piezoelectric audible alarm, activated by a sensor, such as a contact, proximity, or limit switch, in response to a security breach. The temporary power source may also communicate data, such as an SDC, from the merchandise security device 14 to the key 12 to authenticate the security device and thereby authorize the key to provide power to the security device. In other cases, the security device may be an electronic device, such as a sensor attached to a merchandise item and a base on which the sensor is removably supported. The sensor may be attached to the base by a tether or may be wireless (eg, using ranging techniques as described in more detail below).

[0047] In some embodiments, the merchandise security device 14 further comprises logic control circuitry, similar to that located within the key 12, adapted to execute a handshake communication protocol with the key's logic control circuitry in essentially the same manner as between the programming station 16 and the key. Essentially, the logic control circuitry of the key 12 and the logic control circuitry of the merchandise security device 14 communicate with each other to determine whether the merchandise security device is an authorized device without a security code or a device with a matching SDC. If the handshake communication protocol fails (e.g., the device is unauthorized or has a mismatched SDC), the key 12 does not program the device with the SDC, and as a result, the merchandise security device is inoperative. If the merchandise security device 14 was previously programmed with a different SDC, the device no longer communicates with the key 12. If the handshake communication protocol is successful, the key 12 transmits the SDC stored in the key to the merchandise security device 14, allowing the device to be programmed with the SDC. As will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, the SDC may be transmitted from the key 12 to the merchandise security device 14 by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, radio frequency, one or more electrical contacts, electromechanical, electromagnetic, or magnetic conductors, as desired. Additionally, the SDC may be transmitted from the electronic key 12 to the merchandise security device 14 by inductive data transfer. Furthermore, in other cases, the electronic key 12 may simply provide the SDC to the merchandise security device 14 without first initiating any handshake communication protocol.

[0048] In one embodiment, when the handshake communication protocol is successful and the merchandise security device 14 is an authorized device with a matching SDC, such as if the security device includes an alarm circuit, the merchandise security device 14 may be armed or disarmed when the SDC codes match. In other embodiments, the merchandise security device 14 may be armed or disarmed when the SDC codes match. In some embodiments, when the handshake communication protocol is successful and the SDC codes match, the logic control circuitry of the key 12 causes the key's internal power supply to transfer power to the device 14 to operate a mechanical locking mechanism. In other embodiments, the merchandise security device 14 may be locked or unlocked when the SDC codes match and power is transferred to the merchandise security device. It is understood that a variety of information and codes may be exchanged to perform a desired function, such as arming, disarming, locking, or unlocking the merchandise security device 14. For example, the exchanged data may include the merchandise security device's serial number alone and / or the SDC.

[0049] FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a merchandise security device 140 in more detail. As mentioned above, the merchandise security device 14 may be any type of security device that utilizes an alarm circuit and / or a locking mechanism to lock and / or unlock the lock. In some cases, the merchandise security device 140 may be a passive device, in that it does not have an internal power source sufficient to operate the locking mechanism. As a result, the merchandise security device 140 may be configured to receive power, or alternatively both power and data, from an external source, such as the electronic key 12 shown and described herein. The merchandise security device embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 is a cabinet lock configured to securely fasten to the locking arm 104 of a conventional cabinet lock bracket 105. As previously described, the cabinet lock 140 may include a logic control circuit that executes a handshake communication protocol with the logic control circuit of the key 12 to receive an SDC from the key. In other embodiments, the cabinet lock 140 may be configured to transmit an SDC to the key 12 to authenticate the security device, thereby allowing the key to transfer power to the security device.

[0050] FIG. 12 illustrates in more detail one embodiment of an electronic key 120 with inductive transfer. As mentioned above, the key 120 can be configured to transfer data and power to the merchandise security device 140. Accordingly, the programmable electronic key 120 can be an active device in that it has an internal power source sufficient to operate the mechanical locking mechanism of the merchandise security device 140. As a result, the programmable electronic key 120 can be configured to transfer both data and power from internal sources, such as logic control circuits (e.g., data) and a battery (e.g., power) located within the key. The embodiment of the programmable electronic key 120 illustrated herein is a key with inductive transfer capabilities configured to be received within the transfer port 142 of the cabinet lock 140 shown in FIG. 11 , as well as the programming port 46 of the programming station and the charging port 30 of the charging station. Accordingly, the electronic key 120 can be located in proximity to or within the transfer port 142 for communication therewith. In some embodiments, a tag such as those discussed above (e.g., an RFID or NFC tag) may be positioned within the transfer port or otherwise on the security device 140 such that the electronic key 120 is configured to read or otherwise obtain identification data from the tag.

[0051] In some embodiments, the electronic key 120 comprises a housing 121 having an internal cavity or compartment containing the key's internal components, including, but not limited to, logic control circuitry, memory, a communication system, and a battery, as described below. As shown, the housing 121 is formed by a bottom portion 123 and a top portion 124 that are connected together after assembly, such as by ultrasonic welding. The electronic key 120 further defines an opening 128 at one end for coupling the key to a key chain ring, lanyard, or the like. The electronic key 120 may further comprise a transfer probe 125 located at the end of the housing 121 opposite the opening 128 for transferring data and / or power to the merchandise security device 140. The transfer probe 125 is operable to send and receive handshake communication protocols and SDC to and from the programming station 16, as described above, and also to receive power from a charging station.

[0052] As best shown in FIG. 13 , an internal battery 131 and logic control circuitry or printed circuit board (PCB) 132 are disposed within the housing 121 of the electronic key 120. The battery 131 may be a conventional long-life replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery suitable for use with the charging station 18. The logic control circuitry 132 is operably coupled to and electrically connected to a switch 133 that is actuated by a control button 122 provided on the exterior of the key 120 through the housing 121. The control button 122, in conjunction with the switch 133, controls certain operations of the logic control circuitry 132, specifically the transmission of data and / or power. In that regard, the logic control circuitry 132 is further operably coupled to and electrically connected to a communication system 134 for the transfer of data and / or power. In one embodiment, the communication system 134 is a wireless infrared (IR) transceiver for optically transmitting data between the electronic key 120 and the programming station, and between the key and the merchandise security device 140. As a result, the transfer probe 125 of the key 120 may optionally include an optically transparent or translucent filter window 135 for emitting and collecting optical transmissions between the key 120 and the programming station 16, or between the key and the merchandise security device 140. The transfer probe 125 may also optionally include an inductive core 127 and inductive core windings 129 for transferring power to the merchandise security device 140 and / or receiving power from the charging station 18 to charge the internal battery 131. Alternatively, the optical transceiver 134 may be omitted and data may be transferred between the programmable electronic key 120 and the merchandise security device 140 via magnetic induction through the inductive coil 126.

[0053] In some embodiments, an important aspect of the electronic key 120, particularly when used in conjunction with a merchandise security device 140 as described herein, is that the key does not require physical force to be exerted on it by a user in order to operate the mechanical locking mechanism of the merchandise security device. Consequently, no physical force is exerted on the mechanical locking mechanism by the key 120. As a result, the key 120 cannot be unintentionally destroyed within the lock, as often occurs with conventional mechanical keys and locking mechanisms. Furthermore, neither the key 120 nor the mechanical locking mechanism are subject to excessive wear, as often occurs with conventional mechanical keys and locking mechanisms. Additionally, in some cases, there is no required orientation of the transfer probe 125 of the electronic key 120 relative to the port of any one of the programming station, charging station, and / or merchandise security device 140. Thus, any wear on the electrical contacts on the transfer probe 125 and the port can be minimized. As a further advantage in some embodiments, an authorized person does not need to position the transfer probe 125 of the electronic key 120 in a specific orientation relative to the transfer port 142 of the merchandise security device 140 and then exert a compressive and / or twisting force on the key to activate the device's mechanical locking mechanism.

[0054] 22-24 illustrate one embodiment of a programming or authorization station 16'. As shown, the programming or authorization station 16' includes a geometric shape for receiving the electronic key 12' as discussed above (see, for example, FIG. 21). In this regard, the programming or authorization station 16' may include one or more alignment features 15' configured to align with and engage the alignment feature 15 of the electronic key 12'. Additionally, the programming or authorization station 16' may further define a recess 48 for at least partially receiving a side of the electronic key 12'. The recess 48 may be curved or any other shape to accommodate the shape of the electronic key 12'. Within the recess 48, the programming or authorization station 16' may include a port 30' for removably engaging the input port 17 of the electronic key 12'. The alignment features 15, 15' are configured to align with one another to ensure that the input port 17 and the port 30' are aligned and engaged with one another. Such engagement may enable data communication between the electronic key 12' and the programming or authorization station 16', which may occur in some cases upon entering an authorization code using the keypad 44. Additionally, the programming or authorization station 16' may include one or more input ports 50 for receiving power and for data communication (e.g., an Ethernet port).

[0055] FIG. 1 shows the charging station 18 in more detail. As mentioned above, the charging station 18 recharges the internal battery 131 of the key 12. In certain cases, the charging station 18 also disables the data transfer and / or power transfer capabilities of the key 12 until the key is reprogrammed with SDC by the programming station 16 or until a user provides an authorized code to the charging station. Regardless, the charging station 18 includes a housing for containing the internal components of the charging station. The exterior of the housing has at least one, and preferably multiple, charging ports 30 formed therein that are sized and shaped to receive the electronic key 12 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Mechanical or magnetic means may be provided for properly positioning and securely holding the key 12 within the charging port 18 to ensure proper power transfer.

[0056] 16-18 illustrate one embodiment of a charging station 18 in which multiple ports 30 are provided for engagement with multiple corresponding electronic keys 12′. The electronic key 12′ shown in FIG. 21 may be compatible with the charging station 18 shown in FIGS. 16-18, whereby the electronic key 12′ includes an input port 17 on its side for engagement with the port 30, similar to the description in connection with the programming or authorization station 16′. Similarly, each port 30 may be located within a respective recess 48 to receive at least a side of the electronic key 12′. This arrangement may allow multiple electronic keys 12′ to be engaged with the charging station 18 at any one time.

[0057] 14-15 show an additional embodiment of the merchandise security device 150. In this embodiment, the merchandise security device 150 includes a locking mechanism that utilizes "energy harvesting." Thus, the merchandise security device 150 may be a passive device, as described above. However, in this embodiment, the merchandise security device 150 includes a means for generating stored power. For example, the merchandise security device 150 may be configured to rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position and may include a generator configured to generate stored energy (e.g., via a capacitor). In some cases, the merchandise security device 150 may include a bezel, and each rotation of the bezel may generate a stored charge. In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 may first be used to disengage the mechanical lock, and then the merchandise security device 150 may be rotated to the unlocked position. The merchandise security device 150 may then be rotated back to the locked position. Because the merchandise security device 150 does not have a power source, the security device is capable of using stored power to perform various security functions. For example, merchandise security device 150 may be configured to use the stored power to push data to one or more nodes 20 or to generate audible and / or visual signals. In one embodiment, merchandise security device 150 may include an internal radio for transmitting wireless signals using the stored power, such as for generating a distress signal when the security device has been tampered with. In another embodiment, merchandise security device 150 may include a light emitting device (LED) powered by the stored power.

[0058] In another embodiment, multiple nodes are used to communicate peer-to-peer to facilitate the generation of alarm signals, such as audible and / or visual signals. For example, FIG. 25 illustrates multiple merchandise security devices 14 (e.g., sensors) and alarm nodes 30 configured to wirelessly communicate various information over a network to a gateway 24. For example, the sensors 14 and / or nodes 30 may be configured to send and receive information to and from the gateway 24 regarding their configuration, alarm status (e.g., alarmed, armed, disarmed), and / or instructions (e.g., armed, alarm, or disarmed). The merchandise security devices 14 and nodes 30 may also be configured to communicate directly with each other, as described below, and to switch between communicating with the gateway 24 and each other. Any number of nodes 30 may be located at various locations within a retail store, such as on a display table or at the entrance or exit of the store. The nodes 30 may wirelessly communicate with the merchandise security devices 14 and gateway 24 within the network using various wireless communication protocols, such as those described above. One disadvantage of using wireless communication to initiate an alarm at a location remote from the merchandise security device 14 is that the alarm signal often must be sent to a wireless hub, where a server decodes the data and determines to send the alarm signal to the appropriate alarm node. This type of system can introduce latency in generating the alarm signal, particularly if the server is not local, and if any component of the wireless communication chain is interrupted (e.g., the hub loses power), the alarm signal never reaches the alarm node and therefore no alarm occurs. In one embodiment, multiple communication modes may be used to reduce or eliminate these problems.For example, in addition to a first wireless communication protocol (e.g., WiFi, Lora, etc.) between the merchandise security device 14 and the gateway 24 and / or between the alarm node 30 and the gateway, a second wireless communication protocol may be used that is a direct node-to-node communication scheme between the merchandise security device and the alarm node, also without the need to communicate with any hub or gateway. In some embodiments, the communication protocols may be the same or different. In one example, the second wireless communication protocol may be implemented using the same radio antenna by which other operational signals are communicated with the hub or gateway 24 (e.g., Wi-Fi, Lora, etc.), thereby adding no additional cost or size to either the merchandise security device 14 or the alarm node 30 to achieve communication. However, a second radio is also optional. Additionally, the alarm signal may be broadcast at a different frequency than other signals to address local restriction requirements and / or if a particular frequency band is detected or known to be congested. This communication may be bidirectional, although one-way communication is sufficient in most situations. The merchandise security device 14 may transmit a “help me” signal in response to a security event. The alarm node 30 then simply "listens" for that signal, and if it receives the signal, it can generate an alarm by whatever means it has been programmed to do so (e.g., light, sound, vibration, etc.).

[0059] In some cases, multiple alarm nodes 30 may be used, and a particular merchandise security device(s) 14 may be configured to activate a unique alarm node. For example, if a retail store includes multiple display tables for multiple merchandise security devices 14, there may be an alarm node 30 associated with each table that is triggered only by a "help me" signal from any one of the merchandise security devices associated with the same table. In this situation, an identifier (e.g., an ID code) may be added to the "help me" signal that corresponds to a code stored in the alarm node 30. The alarm node 30 may therefore need to receive or identify that code in order to generate an alarm signal. This may be as simple as the code itself being the "help me" signal, or some other instruction code may be added to or included with the identifier, for example, if more than one action (e.g., "activate alarm" or "deactivate alarm") needs to be communicated to the alarm node. The merchandise security device 14 may be configured to generate this "help me" signal immediately at the time of the breach and only after sending a signal to the alarm node 30, which in turn communicates via wireless communication to the hub and gateway where the breach occurred. Thus, latency delays must be minimized in such breach scenarios.

[0060] One or more exemplary embodiments of a merchandise display security system have been described above. Embodiments of a merchandise display security system have been shown and described herein for purposes of illustration and to enable those skilled in the art to use and practice the invention. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that all such variations and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

[0061] Referring to Figures 43-51 below, where like reference numerals represent like elements throughout the various figures, exemplary embodiments of methods and systems according to the present invention are capable of monitoring merchandise inventory in a retail environment. Merchandise items 12 may be any item, including any number of consumer products. Merchandise items 12 may be packaged (or boxed) or unpackaged items. One or more merchandise items may be placed on a retail fixture, such as a shelf, a pusher, a display hook, or the like. In some embodiments, the retail fixture is similar to U.S. Pat. No. 10,219,636, entitled "Merchandise Display Hook Including an Anti-Sweep Mechanism," and U.S. Pat. No. 7,131,542, entitled "Lockable Merchandise Display Hook," the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. The system, generally designated 10, is operable to protect merchandise items 12 from theft and / or monitor merchandise item inventory. Although described in connection with use in a retail environment or store, the system 10 shown and described herein is suitable for monitoring and / or securing merchandise items 12 in other settings, such as residential or commercial environments, and is not intended to be limited to use solely as a system for protecting against theft and / or monitoring inventory in a retail environment.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the system 10 generally comprises a retail fixture 14, a sensor 16, and a monitoring device 18. In some embodiments, the retail fixture 14 may be an existing or commercially available device, and the sensor 18 may be modular and configured to fit the retail fixture. For example, FIG. 43 shows multiple sensors 16 coupled to various types of retail fixtures, including display hooks 14, shelves 14″, and pushers 14′″. The sensors 16 may be coupled to the retail fixture 14 in any desired manner, such as via adhesive or other fasteners or by hanging on the display hook. FIG. 50 further illustrates that the sensors 16 may be coupled to different types of display hooks by using latches configured to clip around the rods of the display hooks. Advantageously, the sensors 16 are configured to be removably attached to the retail fixture 14 in a manner that does not interfere with the retail fixture experience.

[0063] Monitoring device 18 may be any device (e.g., a hub, computer, server, and / or cloud device) configured to communicate with one or more sensors 16. For example, monitoring device 18 may be a hub configured to communicate with multiple sensors 16. In other cases, monitoring device 18 may be a computer (e.g., a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer) configured to communicate with one or more sensors 16 and / or one or more hubs to facilitate data transfer (see, e.g., FIGS. 44-48 and 51). It is understood that any number of monitoring devices 18 may be used in system 10.

[0064] The sensors 16 and monitoring devices 18 may include wireless communication circuitry for communicating with each other using any desired communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, Lora, WiFi, radio frequency, etc.). The sensors 16 and monitoring devices 18 may be located remotely from each other (e.g., the sensors may be located in a retail store, while the monitoring devices may be located outside the retail store). In some cases, the monitoring devices 18 may be located at several fixed locations in proximity to one or more sensors 16. In other cases, the sensors 16 and monitoring devices 18 may communicate through a cloud network (see, e.g., FIG. 51).

[0065] Any number of sensors 16 (e.g., hundreds, if not thousands, in a large retail store) configured to communicate with one or more monitoring devices may be used in system 10. To facilitate wide-area communications that may potentially have interference from various fixtures, products, and even people in the store, a sub-gigabit-range communication scheme (e.g., the Lora protocol) may be desirable in some embodiments. A wide-area communication protocol of this nature may minimize repeaters and more difficult initial setup, as well as aid in maintaining connectivity when moving sensors 16 around the store at some point after installation. In one embodiment, sensors 16 may require authorization to facilitate communication with monitoring device 18. For example, sensors 16 may receive an authorization signal from monitoring device 18 via a long-range communication signal to activate the sensor. Another signal may also be sent from monitoring device 18 to the sensor to command it to deactivate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, it is understood that sensors 16 and monitoring device 18 may communicate via wired means, if desired. In some embodiments, the sensor 16 may be configured to communicate with a key configured to activate, unlock, and / or reset the sensor. For example, the key may be similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011 / 0254661, entitled "Programmable Security System and Method for Protecting Merchandise," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0066] The sensors 16 may utilize various sensing technologies to determine whether a merchandise item is located on the retail fixture 14. For example, the sensors 16 may use acoustic time-of-flight, optical, and / or ultrasonic signals. In one particular embodiment, ultrasonic frequencies may be used to measure the time-of-flight of an acoustic pulse. In other cases, the sensors 16 are configured to emit optical signals (e.g., infrared) that are used to obtain distance measurements.

[0067] The sensor 16 may include an emitter configured to emit a signal (e.g., sound or light) that is configured to reflect off merchandise items present on the retail fixture 14 and return to the emitter. The speed of the signal and the time between pings can be used to measure the return distance. With a known retail fixture 14 size (e.g., the length of the locking hook), the presence of merchandise items on the retail fixture can be calculated. In some cases, distance can also be calculated based on the return signal, which can be used to determine how many merchandise items are located on a particular retail fixture 14. In another example, the sensor 16 may use sound wave power (amplitude) to determine the presence of merchandise items on the retail fixture 14. In this embodiment, the sensor 16 may be configured to measure the attenuation of the return signal's amplitude. The farther the wave travels, the lower the power level. By setting an expected threshold for attenuation, it can be determined whether the retail fixture 14 is empty.

[0068] The sensor 16 may have a power source (e.g., a battery) to provide power to operate the wireless communication circuitry and any other components (e.g., emitters) that require power. In one embodiment, the sensor 16 may be configured to “wake up” from a sleep state periodically to take measurements of what is on the retail fixture 14. This may be a predefined period, such as every 15 minutes, or may have more elaborate controls. For example, the sensor 16 may be programmed to wake up more frequently during peak times of the day and less frequently during certain times (e.g., after business hours). For example, the sensor 16 may have a clock time link via the monitoring device 18 to know the time of day. This schedule may be set automatically by the system 10 (as opposed to a user-entered schedule), with the system observing and learning over time as to when a particular location becomes out of stock (“OOS”) and adjusting the scanning schedule appropriately. These systems help retailers maintain proper inventory levels while eliminating the need for sensors 16 to have external power, large batteries, or short lifespans. In some cases, sensors 16 can enter a more advanced scanning mode (scanning more frequently than a standard predefined period) for some specified period of time once a retail fixture 14 wakes up and knows it is empty. It can be crucial for retailers to know how long it takes so they can put policies in place to reduce the time it takes to refill empty retail fixture locations. The advanced scanning mode can be used to determine when the location has been refilled and report that to system 10. In another embodiment, sensors 16 can be configured to detect the removal or movement of the sensor itself, which may indicate tampering or for audit purposes.

[0069] In some embodiments, multiple sensors 16 may communicate with a single monitoring device 18. Thus, the monitoring device 18 may be configured to monitor multiple signals provided by the sensors 16 to determine inventory levels. In some cases, each sensor 16 may be wirelessly paired to the monitoring device 18, such as via Bluetooth communication. Pairing may include the exchange of a specific code or identifier that associates the sensor 16 with the monitoring device 18. An authorized user may initiate communication between the sensor 16 and the monitoring device 18 to pair or unpair them with each other, such as by pressing an actuator on the sensor and / or monitoring device. Thus, any number of sensors 16 may be added or removed from the system 10, and multiple monitoring devices 18 may be used as well.

[0070] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may be configured to determine whether any merchandise is present on a particular retail fixture 14. For example, the monitoring device 18 may be configured to monitor the number of merchandise items on the retail fixture 14 based on input from the sensors 16 and alert authorized personnel when inventory falls below a predetermined number or when inventory is absent. Thus, in some cases, the system 10 determines only whether inventory is present, rather than a specific number of merchandise items on the retail fixture 14. In some cases, the sensors 16 are configured to send updates to the monitoring device 18 only when there is a change in the number of merchandise items on the retail fixture 14. The monitoring device 18 may further be configured to facilitate communication with one or more remote devices 20 (e.g., smartphones or tablets) to provide notifications regarding inventory levels (see, e.g., FIGS. 43-45). FIG. 43 illustrates that inventory status (e.g., inventory present) may be communicated to the store associate device 20, while FIG. 44 illustrates that an alert may be sent to an associated device if inventory is absent on a particular retail fixture 14. Such communication may occur, for example, through a cloud network. In other embodiments, the sensors 16 and / or monitoring devices 18 may be configured to generate an alarm signal that inventory has fallen below a predetermined level. In some embodiments, inventory reports may be generated at the store clerk device 20 and / or monitoring device 18, as shown in Figures 45-47. Such reports may provide information regarding inventory status and inventory trends (e.g., OOS times and forecasts).

[0071] The monitoring device 18 can be configured to trigger various actions based on input from one or more sensors 16. For example, an OOS alert can be sent to a store associate device 20 to alert them that a retail fixture 14 is OOS. Any store associate then has the ability to "claim" the issue, meaning that the associate will address the problem. The associate can then use their device 20 to activate a "Done" button or command once the OOS issue has been addressed. The OOS situation can also be handled by a button or other mechanism (e.g., a reset button) on the sensor 16, which can be correlated with the sensor data to know that the associate has actually restocked the location.

[0072] In some embodiments, the device 20 may have a setup mode that is used to associate the sensor 16 with a specific retail fixture 14 or merchandise item. The setup mode may be initiated with a button push or other mechanism activated by an installer on the sensor 16. The sensor 16 embodiments discussed above may also be used to acoustically communicate with a microphone and / or speaker on the device 20 (e.g., a phone or tablet) that may have a software application that assists in setting up and assigning the sensor to a retail fixture 14 location within a retail store. Alternatively, FIG. 49 shows that the device 20 may be configured to scan the UPC or QR code of both the sensor 16 and the merchandise item to associate the two. This process may be performed on a single merchandise item and may simply need to associate the type of product displayed on a particular retail fixture 14.

[0073] In one embodiment, the sensor 16 may be configured to operate in an advanced scan mode when the retail fixture 14 is empty and to notify the monitoring device 18 when the OOS issue has been resolved. The monitoring device 18 may monitor the OOS issue and escalate the issue status when more time passes without it being addressed. This may be in the form of a more prominent alert to the store associate device 20, a message sent to a manager and / or an automated announcement on the retail store's speaker system.

[0074] In another embodiment, a button or other mechanism visible to the shopper can be used as a call button when a product is out of stock so that store personnel can attend to a shopper seeking the product before the store has an opportunity to respond to an automatic OOS notification. Such a button or mechanism may be located on a retail fixture 14 where the OOS situation is located (see, e.g., Figures 37-42 discussed above).

[0075] In some embodiments, the sensor 16 is configured to determine a "customer dwell" time in proximity to the retail fixture 14. In one example, a "customer dwell" is when the retail fixture 14 located in front of the sensor 14 is empty, but something is detected beyond the edge of the retail fixture, possibly indicating a customer standing there, which may indicate a lost sale. For example, if a customer dwell is detected and the retail fixture is out of stock, the sensor 16 may be configured to communicate a signal indicative of the customer dwell to the monitoring device 18 so that the retailer can take appropriate action, such as restocking or notifying a retail associate. Customer dwell may be determined by knowing the maximum possible display depth of the retail fixture 14 and by having the sensor 16 configured to determine a distance beyond that depth. For example, if the sensor 16 determines a non-infinite distance and that distance exceeds the maximum display depth of the retail fixture 14, a potential customer dwell exists. Doors or other obstacles in front of the retail fixture 14 may need to be considered to avoid misinterpreting the obstacle as a customer dwell. The following examples are illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. In one embodiment, the sensor 16 is positioned 12 inches behind the retail fixture 14, with 11 inches remaining to the end of the retail fixture. In this scenario, 0 to 11 inches means that a product is present on the retail fixture 14, infinity means that the product is out of stock, and more than 11 inches but not infinity means that the product is out of stock and a customer dwell is possible. In another embodiment, the sensor 16 is positioned 12 inches behind the retail fixture 14, with 11 inches remaining to the end of the retail fixture, and 2 inches in front of the retail fixture is the door. In this scenario, 0 to 11 inches means that a product is placed on the retail fixture 14, infinity means that the product is out of stock and the door is open, 11 to 13 inches means that the product is out of stock and the door is closed, while more than 13 inches but not infinity means that the product is out of stock, the door is open, and a customer dwell is possible.

[0076]

[0033] One or more embodiments of a system and method for monitoring inventory of merchandise items have been described. While embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications thereof can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is provided by way of example only, and not by way of limitation.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 52-69 below, where like reference numerals represent like elements throughout the various figures, exemplary embodiments of methods and systems according to the present invention enable wireless monitoring of merchandise within a retail environment, such as through the use of inclusion and / or exclusion zones. FIG. 52 illustrates one embodiment of a security system 10 configured to protect merchandise items within a retail display from theft. The security system may generally include a sensor 12 configured to be coupled to a merchandise item 14 and a monitoring device 16 configured to wirelessly communicate with the sensor and / or the merchandise item. The security system 10 may further include an alarm module 18 in electrical communication with the monitoring device 16. The monitoring device 16 and the sensor 12 may be configured to communicate with each other to determine the proximity of the merchandise item 14 relative to the monitoring device. Furthermore, the monitoring device 16 may be configured to determine a proximity range between the sensor 12 and the monitoring device, which may indicate the strength of communication between the sensor and the monitoring device. The alarm module 18 may be configured to generate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring device 16 and the sensor 12 is not within the proximity range. In some embodiments, the security system 10 may also include a charging station or device 20 for charging the monitoring device 16 , the merchandise item 14 and / or the sensor 12 .

[0078] The merchandise items 14 may be any portable electronic device, such as a mobile or cellular phone, smartphone, tablet, notebook, or laptop computer. One advantage of one embodiment of the security system 10 is that the merchandise items 14 do not need to be mechanically tethered to a display stand, support, or the like. Thus, the consumer is free to inspect the merchandise items 14 without any physical constraints. As described in further detail below, the monitoring devices 16 may be configured to communicate with the sensors 12 and / or the merchandise items 14 to establish a "wireless tether" such that no physical security is provided, but wireless security is provided. Furthermore, although the security system 10 is described herein with respect to merchandise displays within a retail store, it will be understood that the security system 10 according to the present invention is applicable to any number of environments, such as hospitals, restaurants, and the like.

[0079] The sensor 12 of the security system 10 is configured to be engaged and disengaged with the merchandise item 14. Thus, the sensor 12 may be removably engaged with the merchandise item 14, for example, by insertion into an input port on the merchandise item. Thus, the sensor 12 may include a connector (e.g., see FIG. 54 ) configured to engage with an input port provided on the merchandise item 14. By way of example and not limitation, the input port may be a standard input port provided on the merchandise item 14, such as a USB port, a micro USB port, or the like. The input port may be the same port used for power and / or data transfer with the merchandise item. In some embodiments, the sensor 12 and the merchandise item 14 electrically communicate with each other when the sensor is engaged with the input port on the merchandise item. In other embodiments, the sensor 12 may include a proximity mechanism (e.g., a pressure or plunger switch) configured to detect when the sensor is no longer engaged with the input port on the merchandise item 14, for example, when the sensor is removed from the merchandise item and / or to detect removal of the sensor from the back of the merchandise item. Although shown as a separate component, it is understood that the sensor 12 can be integrated within the merchandise item 14 such that the sensor does not need to be engaged with an input port. Thus, the sensor 12 can be integrated with or coupled to the merchandise item 14. In one embodiment, the sensor 12 is configured to receive power from the merchandise item 14. For example, the merchandise item 14 can include a battery configured to transfer power to the sensor 12 when the sensor is operably engaged with the merchandise. Thus, the sensor 12 does not require its own power source for operation.

[0080] In some embodiments, the sensor 12 includes a power source, such as a battery. In this case, the sensor 12 may be operable to detect when it is removed from the merchandise item 14. For example, the sensor 12 may establish a sensing loop between the sensor and the merchandise item 14 such that the sensing loop is interrupted when the sensor is removed. The sensor 12 may then be configured to communicate with the monitoring device 16 and / or the merchandise item 14 to initiate or otherwise generate a security signal. In the event of a loss of power to the merchandise item 14, the sensor 12's power source reduces false alarms. In some embodiments, the sensor 12 may be configured to determine whether the loss of power to the merchandise item 14 was authorized or unauthorized. A natural loss of power may be, for example, the merchandise item 14 losing power in an authorized manner, while an unnatural loss of power may indicate that the battery has been removed from the merchandise item or that the sensor 12 has been removed from the merchandise item. When engaged with a merchandise item 14, the sensor 12 may be configured to monitor the merchandise item's data lines to determine whether the loss of power is natural (authorized) or unnatural (unauthorized). In one example, the sensor 12 may monitor the data lines when the merchandise item 14 naturally loses power to confirm that a natural power outage has occurred. However, the sensor 12 may be configured to transmit a signal to the monitoring device 16 to initiate or otherwise generate a security signal upon a sudden loss of power. In this embodiment, because the sensor 12 includes a power source, the sensor may utilize its own power source to transmit the signal to the monitoring device 16.

[0081] Sensor 12 may include communications circuitry for communicating with monitoring device 16. For example, the communications circuitry of sensor 12 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with monitoring device 16 using any desired communications protocol, such as Bluetooth wireless communication, Bluetooth Low Energy ("BLE") wireless communication, WiFi wireless communication, cellular wireless communication, received signal strength indicator ("RSSI"), ultra-wideband time-of-flight and / or ambient backscatter. Similarly, monitoring device 16 may include complementary communications circuitry for communicating with sensor 12. In one embodiment, the wireless communications circuitry carried by sensor 12 and / or monitoring device 16 may include, for example, one or more wireless transceivers for transmitting and receiving wireless communications.

[0082] The monitoring device 16 may be referred to as a "watchtower" and may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the sensor 12 and / or the merchandise item 14. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 53, the monitoring device 16 may include a connector 24 configured to mate with an input port provided on the charging device 20. Thus, when engaged, the monitoring device 16 and the charging device 20 may electrically communicate with each other. The connector 24 may be a releasable connector, such as a micro-USB connector, a USB connector, or any other suitable connector configured to engage with an input port with a friction fit. The monitoring device 16 may include a battery that may be used for backup power in case of loss of power provided by an external power source. Furthermore, the monitoring device 16 may be secured to a merchandise display surface 26, such as a display counter, shelf, fixture, etc., using any suitable technique, such as adhesive and / or fasteners. It is understood that the sensor 12 may function as a watchtower and communicate in a similar manner with the monitoring device 16. Thus, the functions of the sensor 12 and the monitoring device 16 may be reversed as desired. Additionally, sensors 12 and monitoring devices 16 may be configured to function as watchtowers. For example, sensors 12 and monitoring devices 16 may be configured to collect data (e.g., RSSI data) and communicate with each other to determine the location of merchandise items 14 relative to the sensors and / or monitoring devices.

[0083] In some embodiments, monitoring device 16 includes a controller and wireless communication circuitry coupled to the controller. Monitoring device 16 may be paired with sensors 12 and / or merchandise items 14 via wireless communication, such as, for example, Bluetooth, BLE, RF, IR, etc. Thus, sensors 12 and / or merchandise items 14 are configured to communicate via their respective wireless communication circuitry and to communicate with monitoring device 16 via their respective wireless communication circuitry. In other words, sensors 12 and / or merchandise items 14 may be paired with monitoring device 16 via wireless communication.

[0084] While the sensor 12 and the monitoring component 16 may communicate via wireless means as discussed herein according to various embodiments, it is understood that the sensor and monitoring component may be connected by a tether or cable. The tether may be a mechanical cable or may include one or more conductors for conducting various types of signals (e.g., security, data, and / or power signals) between the sensor and the monitoring component. In some cases, the tether may be coupled to a spring-loaded recoiler that may be housed within the monitoring component or other location that facilitates extension and retraction of the tether when the sensor is moved relative to the monitoring component. Additionally, in some cases, the tether may be detachable from the sensor 12, such as via a releasable connector.

[0085] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the monitoring device 16 may be conceptually considered a "watchtower." As described in further detail below, if communication strength between the monitoring device 16 and the sensor 12 decreases or is lost, the monitoring device may communicate with the alarm module 18, which may generate a security signal (e.g., an audio, visual, and / or tactile alarm) indicating an unsafe condition or situation. The monitoring device 16 may communicate with the sensor 12 via wireless communication circuitry to activate the sensor's and / or merchandise item's 14's respective output device (i.e., a dual alarm condition), thereby enabling security personnel to identify the sensor of the particular merchandise item that is communicating the security signal.

[0086] In one embodiment, alarm module 18 is electrically connected to monitoring device 16 and an external power source. For example, with reference to FIG. 53 , alarm module 18 may include cable 28 having one or more conductors for transmitting power to alarm module, monitoring device 16, charging device 20, sensor 12, and / or merchandise item 14. Monitoring device 16 may be electrically connected to alarm module 18 by cable 22 having one or more electrical conductors for transmitting power, data, status (e.g., short or resistance), and / or security signals between the monitoring device and alarm module. In one embodiment, alarm module 18 includes a first connector 30 (see FIG. 52 ) at the end of cable 22 configured to couple directly or indirectly to an external power source, such as a computing device (e.g., a PC or portable computer), a power output or wall power adapter at one end, and a second connector 25 at the opposite end of cable 22 for operably engaging monitoring device 16. Thus, alarm module 18 may have a connector 25 that is compatible with an input port provided on monitoring device 16. As a result, the alarm module 18 mechanically and electrically connects the monitoring device 16 to a power source. The alarm module 18 may be operably engaged to the cable 22 and / or the cable 28 in a variety of ways. For example, the alarm module 18 may be hardwired to the end of the cables 22, 28 and may have an inner conductor configured to cooperate with a conductor within the cable. Alternatively, each cable 22, 28 may be plugged into the alarm module 18. In another embodiment, a single continuous cable may extend through the alarm module 18 and be configured to communicate with the alarm module. The monitoring device 16 is shown as being electrically coupled to the alarm module 18 by the cable 22. However, it will be understood that the monitoring device 16 and the alarm module 18 may instead be integrated together as a single combined unit, if desired.

[0087] The alarm module 18 may include an alarm that generates a security signal, such as an audible alarm and / or a visual alarm. The alarm module 18 may include alarms for generating security signals in response to various security events (e.g., unplugging / disconnecting a cable, disconnecting the monitoring device 16, disconnecting the sensor 12, etc.). For example, the alarm module 18 may include a piezoelectric alarm for generating an audible alarm signal and circuitry for detecting security events. The alarm module 18 may be configured to generate a visual alarm signal or provide other visual indicators (e.g., armed or alarmed), such as a light-emitting diode ("LED"). The alarm module 18 may further be configured to detect connection of either connector to the monitoring device 16 and / or an external power source. The alarm module 18 may further include an internal power source configured to provide power to the alarm module if power from the external power source is interrupted or lost. In one embodiment, the internal power source is a rechargeable battery that is recharged by power provided by a remote power source.

[0088] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 52 , the security system 10 includes a charging device 20. The charging device 20 may be configured to charge the sensor 12 and / or the merchandise item 14. Various technologies for transferring power may be used, such as capacitive contact charging, inductive charging, or wired charging. In one example, the charging device and merchandise item have wireless “Qi” compatible battery charging capabilities, which incorporates a magnetic induction coil for transferring power from the charging device 20 to the merchandise item 14 in a known manner. The charging device 20 may be standalone, or alternatively, may be permanently attached, removably attached, or otherwise operably coupled to a docking station, display stand, alarm module, base, or the like. In one embodiment, the monitoring device 16 may incorporate charging functionality such that the monitoring device and charging device 20 may be a single, integrated device. Additionally, in some embodiments, the charging device 20 may be optional, and it is understood that the merchandise item 14 is not charged when in the display or “home” position.

[0089] The merchandise item 14 may be "Qi" compatible and include appropriate hardware for communicating with the charging device 20. Alternatively, the sensor 12 may be "qi" compatible, such that the merchandise item 14 is not required to be "Qi" compatible and further does not require any additional hardware for charging the merchandise item in a retail display environment (e.g., a power adapter cable). For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 54 , the sensor 12 includes a power adapter 13 in electrical communication with the sensor. The power adapter 13 may include an induction coil for inductively receiving power transferred from the charging device 20 and then providing the power to the sensor 12. The sensor 12 may be configured to transfer power directly from the power adapter 13 to the merchandise item 14. Thus, the power adapter 13 may be utilized to power and / or charge a merchandise item 14 that does not include inductive or other wireless charging capabilities.

[0090] In some embodiments, the alarm module 18 and / or sensor 12 can be armed, disarmed, and / or silenced by a security key, which may utilize mechanical, wireless, and / or electrical communication between a component(s) of the security system 10 and the security key. For example, the security key may be configured to wirelessly communicate a security code to the alarm module 18 and / or sensor 12 via infrared ("IR"), optical, acoustic, inductive communication, etc. For example, the alarm module 18 may include a port 32, window, etc. configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals from the security key (e.g., FIG. 55). In one particular embodiment, the security key is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,737,845, entitled "Programmable Key for a Security System for Protecting Merchandise," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In additional embodiments, alarm module 18 and / or sensor 12 may include near field communication ("NFC") functionality and may be configured to communicate with a security key or other device having NFC functionality for arming and disarming the alarm of the alarm module. Alternatively, alarm module 18 and / or sensor 12 may include "screen swipe" functionality and / or may be configured to sense specific movements or motions to arm and / or disarm the alarm module. Similarly, alarm module 18 and / or sensor 12 may include biometric functionality to recognize a specific user and arm and / or disarm the alarm of the alarm module.

[0091] 55-57 illustrate one embodiment of an alarm module 18 in accordance with the present invention. In this regard, FIG. 55 illustrates an alarm module 18 including a connector 34 coupled to a cable 22, and FIG. 56 illustrates a connection member 36 coupled to a base 38 of the alarm module. For example, the connector 34 may include a connection member 35, such as a male micro USB connector or any suitable type of connector. The connection member 36 on the base 38 may be located on a radial surface of the base. In one example, the top surface of the base may define a slot 37, and the connection member 35 of the connector 34 may be aligned with the slot 37 for engaging with a mating connection member 36. The connection member 35 of the connector 34 may be located within the opening 33 of the annular connector. For example, the connection member may extend radially inward within the opening. Thus, the connection member 35 of the connector 34 may be configured to be inserted into the slot 37 and into the connection member 36 of the base 38. In one embodiment, connector 34 is made of a resilient, stretchable, and / or flexible material (e.g., rubber) to facilitate engagement of connecting member 35 with connecting member 36. In this regard, FIG. 55 illustrates an example in which connector 34 is resilient so that it can be manipulated in a manner that allows connecting members 35 and 36 to mate with one another. FIG. 57 illustrates connector 34 and base 38 mated with one another. Thus, when engaged with one another, connecting members 35, 36 are not visible to a user. Additionally, the outer diameter of connector 34 and top surface 39 of base 38 may be substantially the same so that connector 34 and alarm module 18 are a tightly fitted unit when assembled. Thus, connecting members 35, 36 may not be readily apparent to a potential thief when connector 34 is engaged with alarm module 18.

[0092] As described above, the sensor 12 may be configured to utilize power from the merchandise item 14 to perform one or more functions according to some embodiments. Thus, the sensor 12 may not require an internal power source to perform various security functions. In one example, the sensor 12 may be configured to toggle between transmitting and receiving power. For example, the sensor 12 may utilize a battery, as discussed above, to perform one or more security functions. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 12 may be configured to transmit power from an external power source to the merchandise item 14, such as power provided from the charging device 20, a display stand, a base, or the like. For example, the sensor 12 may simply pass power from the charging device 20 to the merchandise item 14 to charge the merchandise item's battery. In addition, the sensor 12 may be configured to receive power from the merchandise item's battery. The sensor 12 may utilize the power provided from the battery to perform one or more security functions (e.g., communicate with the monitoring device 16 or other monitoring unit). Thus, unlike conventional sensors that utilize their own power source, the sensor 12 may be configured to toggle between transmitting and receiving power to the merchandise item 14. In another example, the merchandise item 14 may utilize USB "on-the-go" or similar functionality to facilitate the transfer of power between the merchandise item and the sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor 12 may include a capacitor to assist in the transition between a position where the merchandise item 14 and / or sensor is charging and a position where the merchandise item 14 and / or sensor 12 is no longer charging. Thus, false alarms may be avoided in the event of a momentary loss of power when power to the sensor 12 is transferred between power sources.

[0093] As discussed above, various means may be used to provide power to the sensor 12 and / or merchandise item 14, such as by contact charging. FIGS. 58-61 illustrate one embodiment of a security system 50 in which the sensor 52 includes one or more contacts 54 configured to align with one or more contacts 56 on a display stand 58. When the contacts 54, 56 are in physical contact with one another, power may be transmitted to the sensor 52 and the merchandise item 14. When the sensor 12 is lifted from the display stand 58, power is no longer transmitted to the sensor 52 on the merchandise item 14. A power cable 60 configured to be electrically connected to a power source may be electrically connected to the display stand 58. Thus, the merchandise item 14 may be charged when the contacts 54, 56 are electrically connected to one another. As also discussed above, the sensor 52, in this embodiment, may be configured to toggle between transmitting power to the merchandise item 14 when the sensor 52 is supported on the display stand 58 and receiving power from the merchandise item 14 when the sensor 52 is removed from the display stand 58. In this embodiment, the power adapter cable and connector 62 may be configured to electrically connect one end to the input port of the merchandise item 14 and the other end to the sensor 52. The connector 62 may be removably inserted into the input port of the merchandise item 14, such that the connector 62 may be removed in an unauthorized manner, and the display stand 58 and / or sensor 52 may be configured to detect the removal and initiate or otherwise generate a security signal. In this embodiment, the sensor 52 may be attached to the rear of the merchandise item 14, for example, by a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Furthermore, different power adapter cables with different connectors may be used for various merchandise items that use different input ports. As mentioned above, the monitoring device 16 and alarm module 18 may be integrated together as a single unit, as desired. FIGS. 58-61 illustrate one example in which the display stand 58 includes charging, monitoring, and alarming functions all integrated into a single unit.Accordingly, security system 50 may utilize a standalone display stand 58 configured to wirelessly communicate with sensor 52 and / or merchandise item 14. In some cases, as shown in FIG. 60, merchandise item 14 and sensor 52 may be removably supported on display stand 58. Additionally, display stand 58 may be configured to rest on a support, fixture, or the like, such as a display surface 64, whereby power cable 60 may extend through opening 65, as shown in FIG.

[0094] 62-64 illustrate a security system 50' configured to protect merchandise items in a retail display from theft, according to another embodiment of the present invention. The security system 50' is similar in operation to the previously described security system 50. Therefore, only the relative differences between the security system 50' embodiment and the security system 50 embodiment will be described herein. FIG. 62 illustrates the security system 50', which may include a display stand (also referred to herein as a base) 58' configured to be removably supported on a display stand, and a sensor 52'. As previously described, the display stand 58' includes charging, monitoring, and alarm functions integrated into a single unit and may be configured to rest on a support, fixture, display surface, or the like. Accordingly, the sensor 52' ​​includes contacts 54' and the base 58' includes contacts 56', such that power can be transferred to the sensor and / or the merchandise item when the contacts 54', 56' are in physical contact with each other. To facilitate alignment of contacts 54' provided on the sensor with contacts 56' provided on the base, sensor 52' ​​may further include one or more protrusions 51 (see FIG. 63), and base 58' may further include one or more recesses 55 (see FIGS. 63 and 64). In one embodiment, sensor 52' ​​and base 58' communicate via infrared (IR) wireless communication. Accordingly, to facilitate IR wireless communication between the sensor and base, sensor 52' ​​may include IR port 53, and base 58' may include a corresponding IR port 57. However, other wireless communication, such as Bluetooth, BLE, NFC, RF, wireless charging, etc., may be utilized instead of or in addition to IR wireless communication.

[0095] Regardless, the base 58' functions as a standalone display stand that wirelessly communicates with the sensor 52' ​​and / or attached merchandise item. Wireless communication occurs when the sensor 52' ​​is in proximity (e.g., "near field") or placed on the base 58'. As previously described, wireless communication may be used to initially identify the sensor for pairing with a particular base. Pairing may include, for example, correlating unique identifiers of the base 58' and / or sensor 52'. In some embodiments, once the sensor 52' ​​is paired with a unique base 58', the sensor cannot be paired with another base without first disarming the sensor and / or base. If the sensor 52' ​​is placed on the wrong base 58', the sensor and / or base may be configured to generate an audible and / or visual signal to indicate that the sensor has been placed on the wrong base. Wireless communication may also be used to indicate when the base 58' should initiate contact charging with the sensor 52' ​​and / or attached merchandise item. To activate or "wake up" the sensor and initiate IR wireless communication with the base 58', a small current may be provided via the contacts or wireless communication prior to pairing the base 58' with the sensor 52'. In one embodiment, the IR port 53 of the sensor 52' ​​and the IR port 57 of the base 58' are configured to transmit and receive IR wireless communication. As discussed above, the same IR ports 53, 57 utilized for wireless communication between the sensor 52' ​​and the base 58' may also be utilized for communication with a security key. The security key may communicate wirelessly via the IR ports 53, 57 to arm and / or disarm alarms provided on either the sensor 52' ​​or the base 58', or both. The security key may arm and / or disarm the sensor 52' ​​and / or the base 58' independently or in concert with one another. For example, disarming the sensor 52' ​​with the security key may also disarm the base 58'. However, in some cases, a security key may be required to silence or disarm each of the sensor 52' ​​and base 58'.Wireless communication between sensor 52' ​​and base 58' allows for less maintenance and increased flexibility, as well as anonymity, of security system 50', given that any sensor can be placed on any desired display stand or base without requiring intervention by, for example, authorized sales personnel. Optionally, base 58' may include a proximity mechanism (e.g., a pressure or plunger switch) 59A operable to detect whether the base has been removed from a fixture, support, display surface, etc., and a piezoelectric alarm 59B for generating a security signal when the display stand has been tampered with or removed.

[0096] In some embodiments, a merchandise item may be configured to determine its location relative to a security system using a positioning function, sometimes referred to as “inertial navigation” or “trusted positioning.” Thus, a merchandise item may utilize various components implemented by it to determine its location. The location information determined by the merchandise item may be used independently to determine the distance between the merchandise item and a “home” location, such as a display fixture, display stand, alarm module, etc. Alternatively, the merchandise item may be used in conjunction with communication between the merchandise item and a monitoring device, or between a sensor and a monitoring device. According to one embodiment, trusted positioning may be performed using technology similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,878,673, entitled “Systems and Methods for Protecting Retail Display Merchandise From Theft,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] In some embodiments, the security system includes an inertial navigation system (INS) as a built-in “add-on” security module affixed to or otherwise integrated with a merchandise item, such as a retail display merchandise item exhibited for sale within a display area of ​​a retail store. In another embodiment, the merchandise item may include a software application for a “smart” electronic product, including inertial navigation system (INS) functionality capable of running third-party software applications. In this manner, the security system influences, among other things, the capabilities of the sensors, controllers, audio components, and merchandise item of the host “smart” consumer electronic device. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the term “smart” consumer electronic device, as used herein, refers to any device capable of running software applications, such as a mobile phone, e-reader, i-pad, i-pod, tablet computer, tablet device, laptop computer, notebook computer, digital camera, SLR, media (audio / video) player, or other electronic device with processing power and executable memory.

[0098] As used herein, the term "inertial navigation system (INS)" refers to a navigation aid that uses a computer, motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers), and rotation sensors (e.g., gyroscopes) to process movement without an external reference. An inertial navigation system (INS) advantageously determines the position, orientation, and velocity (direction and rate of movement) of a moving object without relying on an external reference, for example, via dead reckoning. Indeed, one particular embodiment of the present invention is a security system that includes an inertial navigation system (INS) in the form of a software application and associated hardware, or is a security system configured to operate with such merchandise items that does not rely on external references to determine the location of the merchandise items relative to a predetermined "home" location.

[0099] In one embodiment of a merchandise item 14 according to the present invention, shown in FIG. 65, the merchandise item includes a satellite positioning signal receiver, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite receiver 14A, as known in the art. The merchandise item 14 may further include a display 14B and one or more input devices 14C (e.g., a keypad) for receiving user input, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. The input device(s) 14C may include keys, buttons, or the like, or may be embodied by a touchscreen, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. The merchandise item 14 may further include an orientation sensor 14D. The orientation sensor 14D may be, for example, a gyroscope, and more specifically, a three-axis gyroscope. The orientation sensor 14D may be, for example, a digital compass, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the merchandise item 14 also includes an output device 14E. In some embodiments, the output device 14E is an audio output transducer or a speaker. The output device 14E may be another type of audio output device, and other output devices, such as other output devices, tactile output devices, or visual output devices, may also be used alone or in combination with an audio output device. In further embodiments, the merchandise item 14 (e.g., a portable electronic device) also includes an accelerometer 14F. The accelerometer 14F may be a multi-axis accelerometer, or alternatively, the merchandise item 14 may include a multi-directional accelerometer. The merchandise item 14 may also include a battery 14G, which may comprise, for example, a nickel-metal hydride or lithium-ion battery cell. In some embodiments, the merchandise item 14 may further include a proximity mechanism (e.g., a pressure or plunger switch) operable to detect whether the merchandise item has been tampered with, such as when a battery cover has been removed.In some cases, the proximity mechanism may utilize near field communication (NFC) to sense the removal of a component of the merchandise item, and thus the merchandise item 14 may also include an NFC tag 14H configured to facilitate wireless communication between the merchandise item and a removable component of the merchandise item and / or a display fixture, display stand, alarm module, etc. Thus, a security signal may be generated upon removal of the component, or the consumer may be allowed a predetermined period of time to replace the removed component before generating a security signal.

[0100] In one embodiment, as shown schematically in FIG. 66, removal of the battery cover 17 may also remove another component 19 of the merchandise item. For example, removal of the battery cover 17 may also remove a component 19 of the merchandise item 14, such as a battery, SIM card, or SD card. The battery cover 17 may be operably engaged with the other component 19, such as by double-sided adhesive, such that removal of the battery cover 17 also removes the component 19. If the component 19 is a battery (e.g., battery 14G), the monitoring device 16 may be configured to detect a loss of power in the merchandise item 14 and initiate a security signal. The merchandise item 14 may also include a housing 15 for containing any desired components of the merchandise item (see, e.g., FIG. 65), and the battery cover 17 may be removably secured to the housing. Thus, unlike some conventional methods for making batteries and / or other removable components more difficult to remove, embodiments of the present invention facilitate easier removal of removable components to detect a security event.

[0101] In one embodiment, the merchandise item 14 includes communications circuitry 14I, specifically wireless communication circuitry. The merchandise item 14 may also include a controller 14J operably coupled to the wireless communication circuitry 14I, the accelerometer 14F, the orientation sensor 14D, and / or the output device 14B. The controller 14J may be configured to cooperate with the wireless communication circuitry 14I to coordinate and control the operation of the merchandise item 14, i.e., its wireless communication functions and capabilities. The operation may include, for example, mobile voice and data operations, including email and Internet data. In additional embodiments, the merchandise item 14 may include near-field communication (NFC) functionality and may be configured to communicate, via the NFC tag 14H, with a security key or other security device having NFC functionality to arm and / or disarm a security signal or to lock and / or unlock the merchandise item.

[0102] In some embodiments, the controller 14J is configured to cooperate with the orientation sensor 14D to determine a reference orientation of the merchandise item 14. For example, when the merchandise item 14 is held in an operating position by a potential purchaser, with the display 14B and input device(s) 14C facing the customer, the orientation sensor may cooperate with the controller 14J to determine the direction in which the customer and merchandise item are facing, e.g., north. The controller 14J may also cooperate with the accelerometer 14F to measure and monitor the acceleration of the merchandise item.

[0103] Based on the orientation and measured acceleration of the merchandise item 14, as well as the elapsed time of any movement of the merchandise, the controller 14J can be configured to determine the distance from a given location, such as a “home” position of a designated retail display. The “home” position can be established, for example, by the merchandise item 14 being in contact with or adjacent to a display location, surface, stand, holder, platform, charging device, etc. More specifically, the controller 14J can be directly programmed, for example, via the input device(s) 14C, or alternatively, indirectly programmed by an external system or device, so that a location on the display surface is the merchandise item's “home” position. The controller 14J can determine the distance the merchandise item 14 has traveled from the “home” position when the merchandise item is removed from the “home” position by a customer considering whether to purchase the merchandise.

[0104] Note that the “home” location does not have to be the same location each time. Additionally or alternatively, there may be more than one “home” location. For example, the “home” location may be any number of multiple “power hotspots,” such as a display stand, a charging device or station (e.g., charging station 20), or an inductive power transfer charging station. Alternatively or additionally, the “home” location may be a location where the merchandise item 14 remains stationary for a period of time and the wireless communication circuitry 14I exhibits a minimum threshold power signal. In other words, the “home” location may be established when the electronic merchandise item 14 is stationary and charging for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, or in conjunction with establishing one or more home positions, the controller 14J may use one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometer 14F, orientation sensor 14D, etc.) and motion processing algorithms to establish a “safe” zone (also, boundary, perimeter, and area) regardless of the one or more “home” locations. The controller 14J can then determine, based on subsequent motion processing, whether the merchandise item 14 has moved from a position within the "safe" zone to a position outside the "safe" zone or beyond.

[0105] In some embodiments, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the controller 14J is configured to determine the distance traveled from a "home" location based on inertial navigation system (INS) technology, e.g., dead reckoning. Therefore, no external reference, e.g., GPS-determined location or RF communications, is required to determine the distance the merchandise item 14 has traveled from its "home" location. Consequently, a security system configured to operate with merchandise items according to this embodiment of the present invention may be suitable for use in indoor environments, e.g., retail store display areas, where GPS location cannot be determined at all times and RF communications may be blocked. However, it is understood by other embodiments disclosed herein that external references may be used.

[0106] The merchandise item 14 may further include memory for storing computer-executable instructions and for processing data, e.g., as a subcomponent of the controller 14J. The controller 14J may cooperate with the computer-executable instructions in the memory and algorithms embodied in the memory, e.g., software applications, to perform the functions described herein. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the controller 14J may be embodied as a hardware component or as a combination of hardware and application software.

[0107] As discussed above, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58′ (e.g., monitoring devices or display stands) and corresponding sensors 12, 52, 52′ may be configured to wirelessly communicate with one another. In some embodiments, the signal strength of the communication between the monitoring components 16, 58, 58′ and corresponding sensors 12, 52, 52′ may be used to provide security (e.g., via RSSI). One embodiment of a method utilizing signal strength is shown in FIG. 67. For example, a consumer may be able to inspect a merchandise item 14, such as the previously described monitoring device 16, alarm module 18, charging device 20, display stand 58, or base 58′, within a predetermined distance from a “home” position indicated by reference character 70 in FIG. 67. As noted above, the home position 70 may correspond to a location where there has been no movement of the merchandise item 14 and sensors 12, 52, 52′ and / or where the merchandise item is being charged for at least a predetermined period of time. If the signal strength weakens or ceases, a security signal may be generated. In some embodiments, communication between the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ and the sensor 12, 52, 52′ may be initiated when a consumer interacts with the merchandise item 14. For example, communication may be initiated when the consumer picks up the merchandise item 14. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may detect when the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and merchandise item 14 begin to move and / or when charging ceases. Once the merchandise item 14 is picked up, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may be configured to detect this interaction and subsequently determine a proximity range, indicated by reference character 72 in FIG. 67 , that indicates the strength of the communication signal between the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′. For example, the determined proximity range 72 may be the range between a home position 70 and a maximum allowable distance from the home position.

[0108] The determined proximity range 72 may be based on any number of factors, such as the environment, the location of the merchandise item 14 or when the consumer first picked up the merchandise item, the size of the consumer's hand, etc. For example, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may create a range defined by an upper and lower limit or a set of points that is used to determine whether the consumer, and therefore the merchandise item 14, is within an acceptable proximity range to the monitoring component. The proximity range 72 may be the range between an established home location 70 and a location that initiates a security signal. The proximity range 72 may be dynamically determined such that the home location 70 and the maximum location from the home location are dynamically determined and may be unique to each merchandise item 14. When the user first picks up the merchandise item 14 (e.g., within 1-2 seconds), the proximity range 72 may utilize the home location 70 and other data. This data can be used to determine the maximum value of the proximity range 72. For example, a user with larger hands may interfere with wireless communication more than a user with smaller hands, and therefore, a user with larger hands may have a larger proximity range 72. Alternatively, the proximity range 72 need not be determined based on communication between the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ and the merchandise item 14 and / or the sensor 12, 52, 52′. For example, the maximum value of the proximity range 72 may be defined by the retailer and manually entered into the security system, such as when the sensor 52, 52′ is initially positioned on the display stand 58, 58′. The retailer may establish the maximum proximity range at 2 feet, 3 feet, 5 feet, or any desired distance from the home location that is within the communication range. In some cases, the retailer may select the desired range from multiple ranges. Furthermore, the proximity range 72 may be based on various assumptions, such as assuming that the merchandise item 14 is near the home location 70 at a particular time or that the merchandise item is moving but not indicating a security event.

[0109] In another embodiment, a calibration routine may be used to initially establish a proximity range or other predetermined range. In this example, the sensor 12, 52, 52' is configured to communicate with the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' to establish the proximity range. Specifically, a user may activate a security key similar to that described above to communicate with the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and initiate the calibration routine (e.g., pressing a key button a predetermined number of times). An audible and / or visual signal may be generated to indicate that the calibration routine has begun. Following activation of the security key, the user may be provided with a predetermined period (e.g., approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute) to establish the proximity range. In this case, the user may move the sensor 12, 52, 52' a desired distance from the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and activate the security key to communicate with the sensor. Communication between the key and the sensor 12, 52, 52' sets a flag in a message to be sent to the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' indicating that the proximity range has been determined. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' receives the flagged message from the sensor 12, 52, 52' and calculates the distance. Thus, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and the sensor 12, 52, 52' may be configured to exchange data and / or messages containing various information. Following a predetermined period of time, a proximity range is set, and any movement of the sensor 12, 52, 52' relative to the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' is based on the proximity range set during the calibration routine. Thus, the calibration routine allows for more flexibility in setting the proximity range, providing the user with the ability to dynamically set the proximity range based on their own preferences. In some embodiments, the calibration routine may be similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,223,881, entitled "System and Method for Calibrating a Wireless Security Range," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0110] In one embodiment, the proximity range 72 may be determined by signal strength between the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and the sensor 12, 52, 52', and the monitoring component may be configured to monitor the signal strength therebetween, as shown in FIG. 67 by reference character 74. For example, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to continuously monitor the signal strength or to periodically monitor the signal strength at a predetermined frequency (e.g., 10-100 Hz). The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to determine whether the merchandise item 14 and the sensor 12, 52, 52' are within the determined proximity range 72, and to initiate generation of a security signal by communicating with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' (e.g., an alarm module or a display stand) when the proximity range is exceeded, as shown in FIG. 67 by reference character 75. The alarm component 18, 58, 58' may then be configured to generate a security signal when the distance between the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and the sensor 12, 52, 52' is not within the proximity range 72. For example, if the merchandise item has moved beyond a predetermined allowed distance (indicated by signal strength), the alarm component 18, 58, 58' may be configured to generate a first warning security signal, as shown in FIG. 67 by reference character 76. The sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or the merchandise item 14 may alternatively or additionally initiate or otherwise generate such a warning signal. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may then be configured to determine whether the merchandise item 14 and sensor 12, 52, 52' have moved to a location within the determined proximity range 72, such as the home location 70, as shown in FIG. 67 by reference character 77. If the merchandise item 14 does not return to the home location 70 or to a location within the determined proximity range 72, the alarm component 18, 58, 58' may generate a full security alarm signal, as shown by reference character 78 in FIG. 67. Additionally or alternatively, the merchandise item 14 and / or the sensor 12, 52, 52' may be configured to initiate or otherwise generate a full security alarm signal.When a valid key (eg, a valid NFC key) is presented to the alarm component 18, 58, 58' or to the merchandise item 14 and / or sensor 12, 52, 52', the security alarm signal may be silenced.

[0111] In some embodiments, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and the sensor 12, 52, 52' need not be paired with each other. For example, the sensor 12, 52, 52' may be configured to transmit identification information when the merchandise item 14 and sensor are separated from the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and a consumer interacts with the merchandise item. The identification information may be the same or similar information typically transmitted by Bluetooth-enabled devices. The sensor 12, 52, 52' may be configured to transmit the identification information to the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' at a predetermined frequency that is significantly higher than conventional Bluetooth-enabled devices. For example, the transmission frequency may be approximately 20 Hz. In some cases, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be pre-programmed with identification information of the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise item 14, and the monitoring component may detect the RSSI of the desired sensor and / or merchandise item. Additionally, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to filter the inherent RSSI values ​​or otherwise smooth the received values ​​into meaningful data. In this regard, a filtering algorithm for smoothing the data may be used.

[0112] In another embodiment of a method according to the present invention, shown in FIG. 68 , a monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ (i.e., a watch tower or “WT”) and a merchandise item 14 (e.g., a mobile phone) and / or a sensor 12, 52, 52′ are paired (e.g., via Bluetooth communication) and maintain wireless communication with each other, as indicated by reference character 80 in FIG. 68 . As indicated by reference character 82 in FIG. 68 , the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ and the merchandise item 14 and / or sensor 12, 52, 52′ may be configured to exchange data or “heartbeat” (“HB”) messages at a predetermined frequency or at predetermined time increments. For example, the data may include, for example, a message indicating that a security signal has been generated. The HB message may include any desired information, such as the identity of the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ or merchandise item 14, the status of the monitoring component or merchandise item (e.g., armed, security breach, in alarm, etc.), or a previous signal strength value. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' (i.e., WT) may be configured to monitor data transmitted from the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise item 14 (i.e., mobile phone), as shown by reference character 84 in FIG. 68, and to determine whether to initiate a data security signal, as shown by reference character 86 in FIG. 68. Similarly, the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise item 14 may be configured to monitor data transmitted from the monitoring component 16, 58, 58', as shown by reference character 88 in FIG. 68. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58', the sensor 12, 52, 52', and / or the merchandise item 14 may be configured to monitor data at predetermined time increments (e.g., 150 milliseconds). Additionally, as shown by reference character 90 in FIG. 68, the proximity of the merchandise item 14 may be determined relative to the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' based on the signal strength between the monitoring component and the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise item 14. The signal strength may be used to determine proximity therebetween and may be used in conjunction with the exchange of data to protect the merchandise items 14 from theft. In this embodiment, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58' may be configured to monitor the signal strength from the merchandise items 14 based on the RSSI.However, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may alternatively be configured to monitor signal strength from the merchandise item 14 based on ultra-wideband "time of flight." As shown in FIG. 68 by reference character 92, depending on the delivered message and / or signal strength, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' or the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise item 14 may initiate or otherwise generate a security signal. For example, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may communicate with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' to generate a security signal (e.g., using a piezoelectric alarm or LED). Similarly, the merchandise item 14 may be configured to act on the message delivered by the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and / or the signal strength therebetween by generating a warning security signal, an alarm security signal, a thank you signal, or the like. Additionally, the sensor 12, 52, 52' may include an output device such as those discussed above (e.g., a piezoelectric alarm) in conjunction with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' or the merchandise item 14 for generating a security signal, such as in response to removal of the sensor from the merchandise item 14. In some embodiments, the sensor 12, 52, 52' may initiate a security signal when a security event is detected by the sensor and / or monitoring component 16, 58, 58' and may be in communication with the output device for generating the security signal.

[0113] In one embodiment, the merchandise item 14, the sensor 12, 52, 52′, and / or the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ are configured to be paired with one another. In one example, the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may be paired and configured to communicate with one another (e.g., via Bluetooth communication). The sensor 12, 52, 52′ may be configured to communicate with the merchandise item 14 using a connection (e.g., a USB connection) between the sensor and the merchandise item. Thus, bidirectional communication between the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and the merchandise item 14 may occur. In this embodiment, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may be configured to be paired with any desired merchandise item 14 such that pre-programming of the merchandise item's identification information into the monitoring component is not required. In one example, once the sensor 12, 52, 52′ is coupled to the merchandise item 14, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may automatically pair with the sensor to exchange data therebetween. In this embodiment, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' is configured to filter out other data being transmitted by the surrounding sensors 12, 52, 52' and the merchandise item 14 in order to pair with the desired sensor. Thus, if the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' is capable of detecting multiple sensors, the monitoring component can filter out all other sensors except for the sensor 12, 52, 52' desired to monitor. In one embodiment, the sensor 12, 52, 52' can be configured to control a particular feature of the merchandise item 14, such as flashing an LED or generating an audible signal. In a further embodiment, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' can be configured to be simultaneously paired with the sensor 12, 52, 52' and the merchandise item 14. Thus, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' can be configured to communicate directly with the merchandise item 14 and the sensor 12, 52, 52'. For example, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58' may exchange data directly with the merchandise items 14, such as via text and / or voice messages.

[0114] Using any one or combination of the techniques described above, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to determine whether the merchandise item 14's proximity to the monitoring component exceeds at least one threshold based on the distance the merchandise item has traveled from the home location 70. For example, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may determine whether the merchandise item 14 has moved beyond a predetermined distance in any radial direction from the home location 70 based on signal strength and / or data communicated between the monitoring component and the merchandise item and / or sensor 12, 52, 52'. Of course, the threshold proximity may be set to any desired value, or alternatively, to another variable, such as distance, time, acceleration, or orientation. Specifically, the threshold variable may be set to any desired value of any suitable variable via programming using the input device(s) 14C or wirelessly via the wireless communication circuitry 14I (see, e.g., FIG. 65). Alternatively, the memory of the controller 14J of the merchandise item 14 may be preprogrammed with one or more predetermined threshold variables and / or values.

[0115] Regardless, when a threshold proximity is exceeded, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to communicate with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' to generate a security signal, such as a visual, audible, and / or tactile alarm. For example, the security signal may be an audible voice message requesting that the merchandise item 14 be returned to the home location 70 within a specified period of time. The voice message may be customizable in that it may be configured to have a male or female voice and / or to speak in a predetermined language or in one or more multiple languages. Alternatively or additionally, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may activate another output device 14E, such as a tactile (e.g., vibration) device or a visual (e.g., flashing LED) device. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may also be configured to communicate with the sensor 12, 52, 52' and / or the merchandise item 14 to cause the sensor and / or merchandise item to initiate or otherwise generate a security signal.

[0116] In some embodiments, there may be more than one threshold, e.g., a first threshold and a second threshold. When the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ determines that the first threshold proximity has been exceeded, the monitoring device may initiate an initial “alert” via the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and / or merchandise item (e.g., see 76 in FIG. 67 ). The alert may be audible, as described above, and may indicate, for example, that an alarm will be activated unless the merchandise item 14 is returned to the home location 70 or within the first threshold proximity. If the merchandise item 14 is not returned to the home location in a timely manner or is not returned to a location within the first threshold proximity but instead exceeds the second threshold proximity, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ may initiate a subsequent alarm, such as an audible siren, via the alarm module, sensor, and / or merchandise item (e.g., see 78 in FIG. 67 ). The subsequent alarm may be louder and / or more frequent than the initial alarm (e.g., see 76 in FIG. 67 ). Further, the merchandise item 14 may be configured to generate various security signals discussed above, such as, for example, a warning message to the consumer that the merchandise item is secured, a thank you message to the consumer when the security condition is corrected, or an alarm signal. Additionally, security signals may be generated in conjunction with actions occurring at predetermined time increments in conjunction with any of the techniques described above. For example, the consumer may be allowed to correct the problem for a predetermined period of time following a warning signal, or a warning signal may be generated when the merchandise item 14 remains away from the home location 70 for longer than a predetermined period of time. Furthermore, visual signals may be generated in response to various conditions, such as a flashing visual signal from the alarm component 18, 58, 58'.

[0117] Furthermore, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58' may cooperate with the sensors 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise items 14 to wirelessly transmit commands to activate another output device 14E, such as a store alarm, remote from the merchandise items and display area. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58' may similarly communicate commands to other security systems and / or devices to perform additional actions. In one embodiment, the monitoring components 16, 58, 58' instruct adjacent monitoring components in communication with other sensors 12, 52, 52' and / or merchandise items 14 to enter a "lockdown mode" to prevent other merchandise items from being removed and stolen. Lockdown may be achieved by mechanical, magnetic, electrical, electromechanical, or electromagnetic locks, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0118] The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may be configured to deactivate the security signal, for example, when the merchandise item 14 is returned within a first or second threshold proximity. Alternatively or additionally, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may deactivate the security signal based on input from the input device 14C, such as a security code entered into the merchandise item 14, or based on the presentation of a key to the alarm component 18, 58, 58', the sensor 12, 52, 52', and / or the merchandise item. The monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may also deactivate the security signal wirelessly, via a wireless communication circuit, or via a key, such as a mechanical key, magnetic key, electrical key, optical key, or infrared key fob device. Of course, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may perform additional and / or other communication functions upon an alarm condition, including, for example, disabling one or more functions, capabilities, or operations of the merchandise item, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0119] In another embodiment of a method according to the present invention shown in FIG. 69 , a sensor 12, 52, 52′ and a monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ (e.g., a monitoring device, display stand, or watch tower or “WT”) are paired together responsive to the sensor being positioned on or near the monitoring component 16, 58, 58′, as indicated by reference character 100 in FIG. 69 . The monitoring component 16, 58, 58′ and the sensor 12, 52, 52′ wirelessly communicate between one another (e.g., via Bluetooth communication), and the sensor is removably engaged with an input port provided on the merchandise item 14, as indicated by reference character 102 in FIG. 69 . The monitoring component 16, 58, 58′, relative to a home location 70, such as a monitoring component, continuously determines the proximity of the sensor 12, 52, 52′ and the merchandise item 14, as indicated by reference character 104 in FIG. 69 , in any manner previously described. As shown in Figure 69 by reference character 106, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may communicate with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' or otherwise initiate or generate a first security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor 12, 52, 52' is not within a predetermined range. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in Figure 69 by reference character 108, the monitoring component 16, 58, 58' may communicate with the alarm component 18, 58, 58' or otherwise initiate or generate a second security signal in response to the sensor 12, 52, 52' being removed from an input port provided with the merchandise item 14.

[0120] In another embodiment, the sensor and monitoring component may be configured to communicate using magnetic fields. For example, each sensor and monitoring component may have a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver for generating and receiving magnetic fields. In some cases, each sensor and monitoring component includes a magnetic emitter and a magnetic receiver. Such emitters and receivers may be separate components or may be combined into a single package. The sensor's magnetic emitter and magnetic receiver may be housed within the sensor and receive their power from the sensor's power source. Similar to the embodiments discussed herein, the monitoring component and sensor may be configured to communicate with each other to determine proximity, but in this case, the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers are used to determine the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component. Such proximity may be used to determine whether the merchandise item is within or outside a predetermined range or threshold. Proximity may be based on the distance between the sensor and the monitoring component, or alternatively, between the sensor and some initial home location of the merchandise item. One particular advantage of using magnetic transmitters and receivers is that interference, false alarms, and inaccurate readings are less of a problem, especially interference caused by consumers placing their bodies between the sensors and the monitoring components (sometimes referred to as "body blocking"). Other potential advantages include smaller sensor sizes due to lower power requirements and the absence of radio frequency regulations.

[0121] Additional variables can be used to determine proximity, or in addition to variables such as the distance between the sensor and the monitoring component, such as the volume or X, Y, and Z coordinates between the sensor and the monitoring component. The X, Y, and Z coordinates can be used, for example, to determine whether an irregular shape is detected, indicating that the sensor is in an unauthorized location. In other examples, a security signal can be generated in response to a loss of communication between the magnetic transmitter and magnetic receiver of the respective sensor and the monitoring component. In some embodiments, the magnetic receiver of the sensor and / or the monitoring component is a three-axis magnetic receiver and the transmitter is a three-axis magnetic transmitter. In one example, the magnetic receiver is configured to measure the natural earth's magnetic field, and the sensor and / or monitoring component is configured to generate a security signal in response to changes in the magnetic field.

[0122] In one example, the magnetic transmitter and / or magnetic receiver include one or more coils for generating or receiving a magnetic field. One example of such a coil is a 3D transponder coil. In one embodiment, the magnetic transmitter may have a single coil, while the magnetic receiver may have multiple coils (e.g., three coils) to ensure better reception of the magnetic field when the orientation of the magnetic receiver changes, which may occur when the magnetic field is received at the sensor when the sensor is manipulated or moved by the consumer.

[0123] In some embodiments, the magnetic field is generated using magnetic pulses transmitted by a magnetic transmitter. The frequency of the magnetic pulses can be varied to adjust the strength of the magnetic field. In some cases, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic transmitter can be frequency modulated. In other cases, the magnetic field is adjustable, such as by varying the power of the magnetic transmitter. In some cases, the sensor and / or monitoring component can be configured to request that the strength of the magnetic field be changed. For example, if the magnetic receiver of the sensor is receiving a weak signal, the sensor can be configured to request that the monitoring component increase its power to generate a stronger magnetic field. It will be understood that magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers, some of which are discussed above, such as gyroscopes, accelerometers, and / or radios, can cooperate with various types of sensors to assist in determining proximity between the sensor and the monitoring component.

[0124] According to some embodiments, sensors and monitoring components may be paired with each other to facilitate communication between their respective magnetic transmitters and receivers. The concept of pairing between sensors and monitoring components has been discussed in previous embodiments. In this embodiment, each sensor may be paired with each monitoring component using an ID code or other unique identifier, which may be communicated using a magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic pulse may communicate a specific ID code). In some cases, multiple sensors may be paired with a single monitoring component. Similarly, a single sensor may be paired with multiple monitoring components, or multiple sensors may be paired with multiple monitoring components. The sensors and monitoring components may communicate using coded signals. Coded signals may be used, for example, to reduce interference and to ensure that assigned sensors communicate with assigned monitoring components. Such coded signals may be communicated by pulsing a magnetic field at a specific frequency or by periodically changing frequency.

[0125] In one embodiment, the magnetic transmitter and magnetic receiver are also configured to exchange data between the sensor and the monitoring component. It is understood that various types of data may be transmitted, such as the model, type, or identifier (e.g., serial number) of the merchandise item, data regarding the system health of the sensor and / or merchandise item, data regarding the security status of the sensor and / or merchandise item, data regarding consumer interaction (e.g., lifting, duration of interaction, etc.), and / or audit data regarding the interaction of the sensor and / or customer or employee with the merchandise item. Such data may be transmitted using a different magnetic field than that used to determine proximity, although in some cases the same magnetic field may be used to transmit data and determine proximity.

[0126] In some embodiments, multiple sensors and / or monitoring components may be used. Any number of sensors may be configured to function with any number of monitoring components. For example, a subset of sensors may be configured to function with a subset of monitoring components. In some cases, a sensor may be configured to transition from communication from one monitoring component to an additional monitoring component without generating a security signal. The transition between monitoring components may occur between the sensor and the monitoring component, for example, in response to a change in frequency of communication. In some cases, a sensor may be paired with each of the monitoring components with which it is authorized to communicate.

[0127] In some embodiments, the sensors, monitoring components, and / or alarm components are similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,437,088, entitled "Systems and Methods for Protecting Retail Display Merchandise From Theft," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. It is understood that some embodiments generally relate to "inclusion" areas or zones, whereby sensors are restricted to use within the inclusion zone before a security signal is generated. It is also understood that embodiments of the present invention may alternatively be used in conjunction with "exclusion" areas or zones, whereby sensors are restricted to use outside of the exclusion zone, whereby a security signal may be generated if the sensor approaches or enters the exclusion zone. One example of an embodiment in which exclusion zones are used is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0182216, entitled "Wireless Merchandise Security System," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] It should be noted that for any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the operations performed by sensors 12, 52, 52', monitoring components 16, 58, 58', alarm components 18, 58, 58', and / or merchandise items 14 may be provided by a computer-readable medium, memory, or other storage medium. Numerous modifications and other embodiments of the present invention will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood and appreciated that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein, and that modifications to the disclosed and other undisclosed embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the appended claims.

[0129]

[0033] Several embodiments of a system, a device, a computer storage medium, and a method have been described above. While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications thereof can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description is provided for purposes of illustration only, and not for purposes of limitation. In order to maintain the disclosure of the present application as originally filed, the contents of claims 1 to 108 as originally filed are added below. (Claim 1) a plurality of security devices arranged in a wireless network, the plurality of security devices arranged according to a planogram, each of the plurality of security devices configured to protect one or more items from theft, and each of the plurality of security devices configured to wirelessly communicate data with a remote device; a plurality of electronic keys disposed within the wireless network and configured to wirelessly communicate data with the plurality of security devices and / or the remote device, each of the plurality of electronic keys configured to operate the plurality of security devices; and a hub configured to receive the data from the plurality of security devices and the plurality of electronic keys via wireless communication, the hub configured to communicate the data to the remote computing device; A security system comprising: (Claim 2) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the hub is configured to communicate with the remote computing device via a cloud network. (Claim 3) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the data further comprises an identifier for the item. (Claim 4) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the item is a merchandise item located within a retail store. (Claim 5) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the data further includes system health of the item, the electronic key, and / or the security device. (Claim 6) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of security devices are locks and / or alarm security displays. (Claim 7) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of security devices are locks and alarm security displays. (Claim 8) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of security devices are of different types. (Claim 9) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein said data for each of said plurality of security devices is a serial number. (Claim 10) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to be authorized to lock, unlock, arm and / or disarm one or more of the plurality of security devices. (Claim 11) 2. The security system of claim 1, wherein the hub is configured to communicate data to the remote computing device, including the date and time of activation of each electronic key, the user of each electronic key, the serial number of each electronic key, the number of times each electronic key was activated, and / or the events resulting from the activation of each electronic key. (Claim 12) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to be authorized to lock, unlock, arm, and / or disarm one or more security devices different from at least one other electronic key. (Claim 13) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to receive commands from the remote computing device to control the electronic key. (Claim 14) The security system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of electronic keys includes a serial number. (Claim 15) 15. The security system of claim 14, wherein the hub is configured to communicate the serial number to the remote computing device. (Claim 16) 15. The security system of claim 14, wherein one of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to communicate with one of the plurality of security devices to lock, unlock, arm, or disarm the security device based on the serial number. (Claim 17) 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein each of said plurality of security devices is configured to receive commands from said remote computing device to control said security device. (Claim 18) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the hub is configured to communicate the data to the remote computing device automatically or in real time. (Claim 19) The security system of claim 1 , wherein the remote computing device is a tablet or computer. (Claim 20) 10. The security system of claim 1, further comprising at least one alarm node configured to wirelessly communicate with each of said plurality of security devices. (Claim 21) 21. The security system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of security devices are configured to communicate with the hub using a first wireless communication protocol and to communicate with the alarm node using a second wireless communication protocol. (Claim 22) 22. The security system of claim 21, wherein said second wireless communication protocol is a direct node-to-node communication scheme between said plurality of security devices and said alarm node without the need to communicate to said hub. (Claim 23) 22. The security system of claim 21, wherein the at least one alarm node is configured to wirelessly communicate with the hub using the first wireless communication protocol. (Claim 24) 21. The security system of claim 20, further comprising a plurality of alarm nodes, one of the plurality of alarm nodes associated with the plurality of security devices, the one of the plurality of alarm nodes configured to issue an alarm only upon receiving a signal from any one of the plurality of security devices. (Claim 25) 25. The security system of claim 1, further comprising any combination of the features recited in any one of claims 1-24. (Claim 26) 1. A method of protecting an item from theft, comprising: a plurality of security devices that communicate wirelessly within a wireless network, the plurality of security devices being arranged according to a planogram, each of the plurality of security devices being configured to protect one or more items from theft; a plurality of electronic keys that communicate wirelessly within the network, wherein the plurality of security devices and the plurality of electronic keys each communicate data wirelessly; a hub for wirelessly receiving the data and information regarding the planogram, wherein the hub wirelessly communicates the data and information regarding the planogram to a remote computing device. The method comprising: (Claim 27) A security system, a plurality of security devices, each configured to protect one or more items from theft, wherein one or more of the plurality of security devices includes a tag containing data regarding the identity of the security device; a plurality of electronic keys configured to wirelessly communicate with the plurality of security devices to operate each of the plurality of security devices based on the identification information of the security devices, each of the plurality of electronic keys configured to obtain the data from each of the plurality of security devices; a remote computing device configured to receive the data from the plurality of electronic keys via wireless communication, the remote computing device configured to assign a plurality of tags to each of the plurality of electronic keys for operating the plurality of security devices; A security system comprising: (Claim 28) 28. The security system of claim 27, further comprising a hub configured to communicate the data to the remote computing device, the hub configured to communicate with the remote computing device over a cloud network. (Claim 29) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the data further comprises a serial number of the item. (Claim 30) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the item is a merchandise item located within a retail store. (Claim 31) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the data further includes system health of the item, the electronic key, and / or the security device. (Claim 32) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the plurality of security devices are locks. (Claim 33) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the plurality of security devices are locks and alarm security displays. (Claim 34) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the plurality of security devices are of different types. (Claim 35) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein said data for each of said plurality of security devices is a serial number. (Claim 36) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein one or more of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to be authorized to unlock and / or disarm one or more of the plurality of security devices. (Claim 37) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the data includes the date and time of activation of each electronic key, the user of each electronic key, the serial number of each electronic key, the number of times each electronic key was activated, and / or the events resulting from the activation of each electronic key. (Claim 38) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein one or more of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to be authorized to unlock and / or disarm one or more security devices different from at least one other electronic key. (Claim 39) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein each of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to be deauthorized by the remote computing device. (Claim 40) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the plurality of electronic keys are configured to communicate the data to the remote computing device automatically or in real time. (Claim 41) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the tag comprises an RFID tag. (Claim 42) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein the tag comprises an NFC tag. (Claim 43) 43. The security system of claim 41 or 42, wherein each of the plurality of electronic keys is configured to transfer power to each of the plurality of security devices to control the security devices. (Claim 44) 44. The security system of claim 43, wherein each of said plurality of electronic keys comprises a coil configured to transfer power, said coil configured to receive said data from each of said plurality of security devices. (Claim 45) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein said one or more of said plurality of security devices does not have a power source. (Claim 46) 30. The security system of claim 27, wherein said one or more of said plurality of security devices is power-less and memory-less. (Claim 47) 28. The security system of claim 27, wherein one or more of the plurality of security devices comprises a memory for storing an identifier of the security device and is configured to communicate the identifier to one or more of the plurality of electronic keys. (Claim 48) 28. The security device of claim 27, wherein the remote computing device is a tablet or computer. (Claim 49) 28. The system of claim 27, further comprising any combination of the features recited in any of claims 28 to 48. (Claim 50) a plurality of security devices, each configured to protect one or more items from theft, wherein one or more of the plurality of security devices comprises a tag containing data regarding the identity of the security device; a plurality of electronic keys that wirelessly communicate with the plurality of security devices to operate the plurality of security devices and obtain the data from each of the plurality of security devices; a remote computing device that wirelessly receives the data from the plurality of electronic keys and assigns a plurality of tags to each of the plurality of electronic keys that activate the plurality of security devices; A method for protecting items from theft. (Claim 51) at least one sensor configured to transmit a wireless signal to detect the presence of one or more merchandise items on the retail fixture; a monitoring device configured to wirelessly communicate with the at least one sensor to determine that a merchandise item is not present on the retail fixture; and 1. An inventory detector system for monitoring inventory of merchandise items in a retail store, comprising: (Claim 52) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the retail fixture is a shelf. (Claim 53) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the retail fixture is a display hook. (Claim 54) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to transmit an optical signal to detect the presence of the one or more merchandise items on the retail fixture. (Claim 55) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the at least one sensor comprises an emitter configured to transmit a light signal to detect the presence of the one or more merchandise items on the retail fixture. (Claim 56) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the monitoring device is a hub. (Claim 57) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the monitoring device is a computer. (Claim 58) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, further comprising a plurality of sensors, each sensor coupled to a respective retail fixture. (Claim 59) 59. The inventory detector system of claim 58, wherein the monitoring device is configured to wirelessly communicate with each of the plurality of sensors. (Claim 60) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein neither the at least one sensor nor the monitoring device is configured to determine a number of merchandise items present on the retail fixture. (Claim 61) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the monitoring device comprises a hub and a computer. (Claim 62) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect a customer dwell indicative of a customer located in proximity to the retail fixture. (Claim 63) 63. The inventory detector system of claim 62, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect customer dwell only when a merchandise item is not present on the retail fixture. (Claim 64) 52. The inventory detector system of claim 51, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to obtain a first measurement at a first predetermined time increment. (Claim 65) 65. The inventory detector system of claim 64, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to transmit the first measurement to the monitoring device only if the first measurement has changed relative to a previous measurement. (Claim 66) 66. The inventory detector system of claim 65, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to obtain second measurements at second predetermined time increments different from the first time increments. (Claim 67) 67. The inventory detector system of claim 66, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to transmit the second measurement to the monitoring device regardless of whether the second measurement has changed relative to a previous measurement. (Claim 68) 68. The inventory detector system of claim 51, further comprising any combination of the features recited in any of claims 52-67. (Claim 69) 1. A security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: a sensor configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, the sensor comprising a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver; a monitoring component comprising a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver in communication with the magnetic emitter and / or the magnetic receiver of the sensor, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers, and the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to initiate a security signal based on the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component; A security system comprising: (Claim 70) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the sensor and the monitoring component are configured to communicate wirelessly via magnetic pulses. (Claim 71) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component is a distance, and the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers to determine the distance of the merchandise item to the monitoring component. (Claim 72) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component is configured to be paired with the sensor. (Claim 73) 70. The security system of claim 69, further comprising a plurality of sensors, said monitoring component configured to be paired with each of said plurality of sensors. (Claim 74) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component comprises a display stand. (Claim 75) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are each configured to initiate a security signal based on the proximity. (Claim 76) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are each configured to communicate with a key to arm or disarm the monitoring component and / or the sensor. (Claim 77) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the sensor is untethered to the monitoring component. (Claim 78) 70. The security system of claim 69, further comprising a tether mechanically connecting said sensor to said monitoring component. (Claim 79) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other and exchange data using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers. (Claim 80) 80. The security system of claim 79, wherein the data is a type, model, or identifier of a merchandise item. (Claim 81) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component is determined using signal strength. (Claim 82) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitored component is determined based on an X coordinate, a Y coordinate, and a Z coordinate. (Claim 83) 84. The security system of claim 83, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitored component is determined based on an irregular shape represented by the X, Y, and Z coordinates. (Claim 84) 70. The security system of claim 69, further comprising a gyroscope, an accelerometer, or an RF radio configured to determine said proximity. (Claim 85) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the magnetic receiver and / or the sensor of the monitoring component is a three-axis magnetic receiver. (Claim 86) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the magnetic receiver and / or the sensor of the monitoring component is a three-axis magnetic transmitter. (Claim 87) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other via a magnetic field using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers. (Claim 88) 88. The security system of claim 87, wherein said magnetic field is frequency modulated. (Claim 89) 88. The security system of claim 87, wherein the power of the magnetic field is adjustable. (Claim 90) 90. The security system of claim 89, wherein the power of the magnetic field is adjustable depending on the sensor attached to the item of merchandise. (Claim 91) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to initiate a security signal when communication terminates. (Claim 92) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the magnetic receiver of the sensor and / or monitoring component is configured to measure a natural geomagnetic field, and the monitoring component and / or the sensor is configured to initiate a security signal in response to a deviation from the natural geomagnetic field. (Claim 93) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to initiate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is not within a predetermined range. (Claim 94) 70. The security system of claim 69, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to initiate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is within a predetermined range. (Claim 95) 70. The security system of claim 69, further comprising a plurality of monitoring components, the sensor configured to communicate with any one of the plurality of monitoring components to determine the proximity between the plurality of monitoring components. (Claim 96) 96. The security system of claim 95, wherein the sensor is configured to transition communication to any one of the plurality of monitoring components based on a change in communication frequency between the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers. (Claim 97) 96. The security system of claim 95, further comprising a plurality of sensors, a subset of the plurality of sensors configured to communicate with a subset of the plurality of monitoring components but not to communicate with another subset of the plurality of monitoring components. (Claim 98) 69. The system of claim 69, further comprising any combination of the features recited in any of claims 70-97. (Claim 99) communicating between a monitoring component and a sensor, the sensor being attached to an item of merchandise, the monitoring component and the sensor being configured to communicate with each other using their respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers; initiating a first security signal at the monitoring component and / or sensor based on proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor; A method for protecting an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: (Claim 100) 100. The method of claim 99, wherein the initiating step includes initiating the first signal at the monitoring component and / or sensor when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is not within a predetermined range. (Claim 101) 100. The method of claim 99, wherein the initiating step includes initiating the first signal at the monitoring component and / or sensor when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is within a predetermined range. (Claim 102) 100. The method of claim 99, wherein initiating the first security signal comprises generating a warning signal based on the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor. (Claim 103) 103. The method of claim 102, wherein initiating the first security signal comprises generating an alarm signal after the warning signal, the alarm signal comprising a louder volume and / or frequency than the warning signal. (Claim 104) 100. The method of claim 99, further comprising determining a proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component based on the communication. (Claim 105) 100. The method of claim 99, further comprising any combination of the steps recited in any one of claims 100 to 104. (Claim 106) a sensor configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, the sensor comprising a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver; a monitoring component comprising a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver in communication with the sensor, the monitoring component and the sensor being configured to communicate with each other using the respective magnetic emitter and / or magnetic receiver to determine whether the monitoring component and the sensor will initiate a security signal; 1. A security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: (Claim 107) The system of claim 106, further comprising any combination of the features of any of claims 69 to 98. (Claim 108) An apparatus, system, method and / or computer program medium comprising any combination of the features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. 1. A security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: a sensor configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, the sensor comprising a magnetic receiver; a monitoring component located at a fixed location, the monitoring component having a magnetic emitter in communication with the magnetic receiver of the sensor; It is equipped with the magnetic emitter of the monitoring component is a three-axis magnetic transmitter configured to transmit a signal using a magnetic field; the magnetic receiver of the sensor is a three-axis magnetic receiver configured to receive the signal; A security system, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to generate a security signal based on the signal and the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component.

2. The security system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor and the monitoring component are configured to communicate wirelessly via magnetic pulses.

3. 2. The security system of claim 1, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component is a distance, and the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers to determine the distance of the merchandise item to the monitoring component.

4. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component is configured to be paired with the sensor using a unique identifier sent by the signal.

5. The security system of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of sensors, said monitoring component configured to be paired with each of said plurality of sensors.

6. The security system of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring component comprises a display stand.

7. The security system of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are each configured to generate a security signal based on the proximity.

8. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are each configured to communicate with a key to arm or disarm the monitoring component and / or the sensor.

9. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein said sensor is untethered to said monitoring component.

10. 10. The security system of claim 1, further comprising a tether mechanically connecting said sensor to said monitoring component.

11. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other and exchange data using the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers.

12. 12. The security system of claim 11, wherein the data is a type, model, or identifier of a merchandise item.

13. The security system of claim 1 , wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitored component is determined based on the strength of the signal.

14. The security system of claim 1 , wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitored component is determined based on an X, Y, and Z coordinate.

15. 15. The security system of claim 14, wherein the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitored component is determined based on an irregular shape represented by the X, Y, and Z coordinates.

16. The security system of claim 1 further comprising a gyroscope, an accelerometer, or an RF radio configured to determine said proximity.

17. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein said magnetic field is frequency modulated.

18. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the power of said magnetic field is adjustable by varying the power supplied to said magnetic emitter.

19. 20. The security system of claim 18, wherein the magnetic field is adjustable depending on the sensor attached to the item of merchandise.

20. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to generate a security signal when communication between the monitoring component and the sensor is terminated.

21. 2. The security system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic receiver of the sensor is configured to measure a natural geomagnetic field, and the monitoring component and / or the sensor is configured to generate a security signal in response to a change from the natural geomagnetic field.

22. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to generate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is not within a predetermined range.

23. 10. The security system of claim 1, wherein the monitoring component and / or the sensor are configured to generate a security signal when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is within a predetermined range.

24. 10. The security system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of monitoring components, the sensor configured to communicate with any one of the plurality of monitoring components to determine the proximity between them.

25. 25. The security system of claim 24, wherein the sensor is configured to transfer communication to any one of the plurality of monitoring components based on a change in communication frequency between the respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers.

26. 25. The security system of claim 24, further comprising a plurality of sensors, a subset of said plurality of sensors configured to communicate with a subset of said plurality of monitoring components but not to communicate with another subset of said plurality of monitoring components.

27. communicating between a monitoring component and a sensor, the sensor being attached to an item of merchandise, the communicating step including transmitting signals using a magnetic field with a three-axis magnetic transmitter of the monitoring component; receiving the signal with a three-axis magnetic receiver of the sensor; generating a first security signal at the monitoring component and / or sensor based on the signal and a proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor; A method for protecting an item of merchandise from theft, comprising:

28. The method described in claim 27, wherein the generating step includes generating the first security signal in the monitoring component and / or sensor when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is not within a predetermined range.

29. The method described in claim 27, wherein the generating step includes generating the first security signal in the monitoring component and / or sensor when the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor is within a predetermined range.

30. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein generating the first security signal comprises generating a warning signal based on the proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein generating the first security signal comprises generating an alarm signal after the warning signal, the alarm signal comprising a greater volume and / or frequency than the warning signal.

32. 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising determining a proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component based on the communication.

33. a sensor configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, the sensor comprising a three-axis magnetic receiver; a monitoring component including a triaxial magnetic transmitter in communication with the sensor, the monitoring component and the sensor being configured to communicate with each other using their respective triaxial magnetic transmitters and triaxial magnetic receivers to determine whether the monitoring component and the sensor generate a security signal; It is equipped with The three-axis magnetic transmitter is configured to generate a magnetic field, and the strength of the magnetic field is adjustable by varying the power supplied to the three-axis magnetic transmitter. A security system designed to protect merchandise items from theft.

34. 1. A security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: a sensor configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, the sensor including a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver; a plurality of monitoring components including magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers, each monitoring component in communication with a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver of the sensor; It is equipped with the sensor is configured to communicate with any one of the plurality of monitoring components to determine proximity between the monitoring component and the sensor; the plurality of monitoring components and the sensor are configured to communicate with each other using their respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers; each of the plurality of monitoring components and / or the sensors configured to generate a security signal based on the proximity of the merchandise item to the monitoring component; The security system, wherein the sensor is configured to transfer communication to any one of the plurality of monitoring components without generating a security signal.

35. 1. A security system configured to protect an item of merchandise from theft, comprising: a plurality of sensors configured to be attached to an item of merchandise, each sensor including a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver; a plurality of monitoring components including magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers, each monitoring component in communication with a magnetic emitter and / or a magnetic receiver of the sensor; It is equipped with the plurality of monitoring components and the plurality of sensors are configured to communicate with each other using their respective magnetic emitters and / or magnetic receivers; each of the plurality of monitoring components and / or each of the plurality of sensors is configured to generate a security signal based on the proximity of an item to the monitoring component; A security system, wherein a subset of the plurality of sensors is configured to communicate with a subset of the plurality of monitoring components, but is incapable of communicating with another subset of the plurality of monitoring components.

36. 36. The security system of claim 35, wherein the sensor is configured to transfer communication to any one of the plurality of monitoring components without generating a security signal.

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