Suspect detection system and method for a retail environment

Abstract

Examples described herein generally relate to a system and method for detecting a suspicious person. One or more communication devices are configured to communicate with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person in a controlled environment to receive a unique identifier from the RF device. A processing unit in communication with the communication devices to receive the unique identifier is configured to: determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and identify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity. The RF device may be a key fob. The system may be configured to detect a loss event at a premises; detect a presence of a key fob; and associate an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record.

Description

Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOSUSPECT DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A RETAIL ENVIRONMENTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Number 63 / 738978 titled “AUTOMOTIVE KEY FOB IDENTIFICATION WITH EAS SYSTEM FOR LOS PREVENTION,” filed December 26, 2024 and U.S. Provisional Application Number 63 / 746096 titled “SUSPECT DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A RETAIL ENVIRONMENT,” filed January 16, 2025.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to suspect detection systems for identifying individuals in a retail environment, and more particularly to systems and methods for automotive key fob identification.BACKGROUND

[0003] Retailers detect movement of goods using a security tag attached to the goods and sensors that detect the location of the security tag. For example, Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems use various types of EAS tags to determine when products are being removed from a retail environment without authorization. Inventory control systems monitor product inventory available for sale and are often integrated with point-of-sale (POS) systems so that inventory can be monitored in real time. Customer relationship management (CRM) systems allow stores to track the identity and buying patterns of customers. Video cameras capture images showing in-store activity. A security system may include an exit system (e.g., a pedestal including a reader) that detects the presence of a tag.

[0004] While such security systems are useful in detecting a surreptitious theft of an item, such technology may have difficulty identifying an individual involved in a loss event. For example, an EAS system may detect an unauthorized removal of an item, but a video camera may not capture sufficient information to identify an individual removing the item. For instance, the individual may mask their identity with concealing1AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOclothing or a mask. There is a better chance to pinpoint an offender if more data points are available related to the offender.

[0005] Thus, there is a need in the art for improvements in security systems to facilitate data point collection related to a suspect involved in a suspicious activity.SUMMARY

[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more implementations of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such implementations. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated implementations, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all implementations nor delineate the scope of any or all implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more implementations of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a suspect detection system, including: one or more communication devices configured to communicate with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person in a controlled environment to receive a unique identifier from the RF device; and a processing unit in communication with the communication devices to receive the unique identifier and configured to: determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and identify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method to detect a suspect, including: communicating with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person by one or more communication devices in a controlled environment; receiving, by the one or more communication devices, a unique identifier from the RF device; determining, by a processing unit, whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and identifying, by the processing unit, a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an electronic apparatus including: a housing; and a processing circuit to communicate with a key fob located within a controlled environment and configured to identify a unique identifier of the key fob to facilitate tracking of an associated vehicle.

[0010] Additional advantages and novel features relating to implementations of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part 2AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOwill become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following or upon learning by practice thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0011] In the drawings:

[0012] FIG. l is a schematic diagram of an example retail location including key fob identifiers for collecting information.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a message diagram illustrating an example messages with an active key fob.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a message diagram illustrating an example messages with a passive key fob.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a diagram of an example record including a key fob identifier.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a suspect detection system, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an example computer device, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting steps of a method to detect a suspect, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an example method of recording a key fob identifier in response to a suspected loss condition, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method of performing a security measure in response to detecting a key fob identifier, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIGs. 10-13 depict sub-steps of the method of FIG. 9, in accordance with some implementation of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 depicts a step of the method to detect a suspect, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 depicts another step of the method to detect a suspect, in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a block diagram depicting an electronic apparatus, according to another aspect of the present disclosure.3AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WODETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure provides systems and methods for key fob identification with an electronic article surveillance (EAS) system for loss prevention. In an aspect, an EAS system may be configured to receive signals transmitted by a key fob of a keyless entry system such as those commonly deployed in vehicles. The system may determine an identifier of the key fob and associate the identifier with a record. For example, the record may be associated with a loss event or a repeat offender. The key fob identifier may provide an additional point of information that may be used to identify an individual or vehicle involved in a loss event. Detection of the key fob identifier at a later time may trigger a security measure intended to prevent an additional loss event.

[0026] Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems are commonly used in retail stores and other settings to prevent the unauthorized removal of goods from a protected area. Typically, a detection system is configured at an exit from the protected area, which comprises one or more transmitters and antennas (“pedestals”) capable of generating an electromagnetic field across the exit, known as the “interrogation zone.” Articles to be protected are tagged with a security tag (such as an RF, RFID and / or an acousto-magnetic (AM) tag), also known as an EAS marker, that, when active, generates a response signal when passed through this interrogation zone. An antenna and receiver in the same or another “pedestal” detects this response signal and generates an alarm. EAS systems may also be deployed throughout a premises to detect movement of items prior to the items approaching an exit.

[0027] A premises may also use monitoring devices such as security cameras and microphones to detect potential loss events. In some cases, the cameras may be distributed throughout a retail location and provide additional context with respect to a potential loss event. For example, an EAS system may detect movement of tagged items and a camera may record a video of the person interacting with the items. The video may be reviewed by security personnel or a trained artificial intelligence (Al). For example, the Al may perform facial recognition or gait pattern analysis to determine whether the person is a known offender.

[0028] While security technology for a premises helps identify suspected loss events, current systems have limits. Typically, the system generates an alarm in response to a suspected loss event. In the case of organized retail crime (ORC), an alarm may be insufficient to stop theft of an item. For example, a thief may simply ignore an alarm 4AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOand proceed out of the retail location. A thief may evade security personnel or law enforcement officers. Further, having personnel confront a thief at the retail location may escalate the situation and possibly put customers at risk. Further, a generic audible alarm may be confusing to other customers, who may believe they triggered the alarm. Additionally, while monitoring systems are useful for gathering information about a suspected person, such information can be limited. For example, a thief may target products outside of view of a camera, or may position himself to avoid detection or identification.

[0029] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides system and methods for identifying key fobs within a security system. Key fobs have several characteristics that result in additional useful information within a security system. First, a key fob is typically carried with an individual and therefore follows a movement pattern of the individual. Accordingly, detection information for the key fob can be correlated with an individual. Second, the key fob is associated with a vehicle that is often outside of the security system. The association of the individual, key fob, and vehicle allows for extension of a security system outside of a physical premises. For example, association of a key fob identifier with a loss event may help associate the vehicle with the loss event for recovery of goods and / or prosecution of culprits. Third, a key fob can transmit signals passively and silently. Accordingly, individuals may not be aware that a key fob is being tracked.

[0030] Articles may be tagged with a security tag that is configured to transmit an article identifier. The security tag may be scanned at one or more locations to determine a status of the article. A point of sale (POS) system may provide further information regarding the status of the article. For example, an article may have a status of unpurchased, at checkout, or purchased. A loss event may be detected when an article with a status of unpurchased is removed from an authorized area, for example, when the unpurchased article leaves the premises. In an aspect, when a loss event occurs, a key fob identifier that is detected may be associated with the article and / or the loss event.

[0031] In an aspect, a key fob identifier may be used to initiate a security action. For example, when a key fob identifier that is associated with a loss event is detected at an entrance to the premises, the security system may initiate a security action, which may be based on a risk score associated with the key fob identifier. For instance, if the key fob identifier is associated with a low value loss event, the security action may include 5AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOadditional monitoring of an individual associated with the key fob identifier. In contrast, if the key fob identifier is associated with a record of a previous violent incident, the security action may include actions such as contacting law enforcement or locking doors.

[0032] Referring now to FIG. 1, an example premises 100 (e.g., a retail location) includes multiple regions where tagged products may be located. For example, the premises 100 may include an open display area 110, a front end 112, aisles 114, an entrance / exit area 116, and a security room 118. Customers 130 may be located within the different regions. Workers 132 may be stationed at locations such as check out registers and the security room 118. The workers 132 may operate a point of sale (POS) system 134. In some implementations, the POS system 134 may include self-service kiosks or a mobile application. Further, the premises 100 may be adjacent to areas external to the premises 100 such as a common area 170 or a parking lot 180. For instance, the common area 170 may be a shopping mall or plaza connecting other retail locations 172. A person of skill in the art would understand that the disclosed systems and methods are applicable to a variety of retail locations and the present disclosure is not limited to the example retail location or areas.

[0033] As discussed above, retailers (e.g., consumer products and apparel retailers) have deployed security tags such as radio frequency identification (RFID) systems in stores to track product movements as they arrive at stores, are placed on display on the sales floor, and are sold. By adopting RFID, retailers are able to reduce the amount of time that the store employees spend counting the inventory (e.g., manually counting inventory that is on the floor and in stock room), as well as increase merchandise visibility within each store, thereby enabling shoppers in the store and online to find what they seek. RFID uses radio waves to read and capture information stored on a tag attached to an object such as a good, product, or merchandise. Additionally, RFID tags may be used with a security system to detect inventory changes and possible loss events. For example, RFID tags may be read by an exit system to determine whether a tagged article 122 is leaving the retail location.

[0034] In an aspect, a tag (e.g., tag 124) may be configured to transmit an article identifier 128 to a sensor device. The article identifier 128 may be a unique code such as a serial number that identifies the tag 124. The article identifier 128 may be associated with an article, for example, when the article is tagged. In some implementations, the article 122 may be tagged with the tag 124 during manufacture or 6AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOpackaging in a process known as source labeling or source tagging. Accordingly, the article identifier 128 and / or tag 124 may be used to track the article throughout a distribution chain. For example, the active radio tag may be configured to transmit the article identifier prior to any unauthorized removal and until deactivated at a point of sale. In some implementations, the tag 124 may include an RFID tag 126 (e.g., an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag). The RFID tag 126 may be read from up to several feet away by a reader and does not need to be within direct line-of-sight of the reader to be tracked.

[0035] An RFID system may be made up of two parts: a tag or label (e.g., EPC tag 126) and a reader (e.g., exit system 140). RFID tags (which may also be referred to as labels) are embedded with an RFID transmitter and a receiver. The RFID component on the tags may include a microchip that stores and processes information, and an antenna to receive and transmit signals. The EPC tag may further contain the specific serial number for each specific object (e.g., an electronic product code (EPC)). The EPC may also be embedded in the tag 124. For example, in one implementation, the tag 124 may include multiple memory banks such as a reserved memory, EPC memory, tag identification (TID) memory, and user memory. The reserved memory bank may include an access password and a kill password. The EPC memory may include the EPC, a protocol control, and a cyclic redundancy check value. The TID memory may include a tag identification. The user memory may store custom data.

[0036] The POS system 134 may be configured to deactivate a tag 124 upon purchase of the tagged article 122. In some implementations, the POS system 134 may deactivate the tag 124 itself, for example, using the kill password to prevent the tag 124 from transmitting. In some implementations, the POS system 134 may deactivate the tag 124 within the security system 102, for example, by setting a status of the tag 124 to deactivated.

[0037] To read the information encoded on the tag 124, a two-way radio transmitterreceiver called a sensing device, interrogator, or reader (e.g., exit system 140) emits a signal to the EPC tag using the antenna (e.g., internal antennas). The exit system 140 may apply filtering to indicate what memory bank the EPC tag 124 should use to respond to the emitted signal. The EPC tag 124 may respond with the information (e.g., EPC value or serial number) written in the memory bank. The EPC tag data set may include any information stored on the EPC tag 124 as well as information about reading the EPC tag 124. For example, the EPC tag data set may include: a timestamp, a 7AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOlocation, a signal transmission power, a received signal strength indication (RSSI), and an identifier of the RFID reader (e.g., exit system 140). For purposes of this disclosure, the terms, the EPC tag and RFID tag may be used interchangeably. The EPC tag 124 may be a passive tag or a battery powered EPC tag. A passive RFID tag may use the radio wave energy of the RFID interrogator or receiver to relay the stored information back to the interrogator. In contrast, a battery powered EPC tag 124 may be embedded with a small battery that powers the relay of information.

[0038] The exit system 140 may include multiple sensors 142 located near exits 144. For example, the example premises 100 may be a retail location including three exits 144 that are relatively narrow. The sensors 142 may be located on each side of the exits 144. For example, in an implementation, the sensors 142 may include at least one RFID reader including an antenna that generates a tag detection field 146. In an aspect, a sensing device 148 may be located away from the exit system 140. For example, a sensing device 148 may be embedded in a floor or ceiling. In some implementations, a sensing device 148 may be located near the front end 112, for example in a queuing area to detect articles prior to purchase. In some implementations, a sensing device 148 may be located between the front end 112 and the exit system 140 to detect tags that were not deactivated by the POS system 134. As another example a sensing device 148 may be located in a high-theft area such as a dressing room.

[0039] The security system 102 may detect suspected loss conditions. For example, the security system 102 may detect a suspected loss condition when a tag passes the exit system 140 without being deactivated by the POS system 134. As another example, the security system 102 may detect a suspected loss condition when a camera 120 detects a suspicious behavior such as a tagged item being concealed.

[0040] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a key fob monitoring system 160 that can integrate key fob signal information with a security system 102. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 may include one or more sensors 162 that are configured to wirelessly communicate with a key fob of a keyless entry system. For example, the sensors 162 may include antennas configured to communicate at one or more frequencies specified for keyless entry systems (e.g., 315 MHz or 434MHz and 134 kHz). Further, the sensors 162 may transmit and / or receive messages using known keyless entry protocols. In some implementations, the sensors 162 may collect additional information associated with wireless signals such as signal strength, angle of arrival, etc. In some implementations, the sensors 162 are integrated with the exit 8AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOsystem 140 and / or other sensing devices 148 such that the security system can concurrently detect tags and key fobs in the same location.

[0041] The key fob monitoring system 160 may be a computer device programmed to control one or more sensors 162. The key fob monitoring system 160 may be, for example, any mobile or fixed computer device including but not limited to a computer server, desktop or laptop or tablet computer, a cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a handheld device, any other computer device having wired and / or wireless connection capability with one or more other devices, or any other type of computerized device. In some implementations, the key fob monitoring system 160 may be located separately from the premises 100. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 or a component thereof may be hosted on a server or datacenter of a cloud network and communicate with components of the security system 102 at the premises 100.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a message diagram 200 illustrating example messages with an active key fob 210. An active key fob 210 is configured to transmit a signal to a vehicle 220 in response to an action by a user. For example, the use may press an unlock button on the key fob to initiate the signal. In an aspect, a sensor 162 may listen for signals transmitted by the active key fob 210. In some implementations, because an active key fob 210 requires user interaction to generate a signal, the sensor 162 may be located in close proximity to the vehicle 220 (e.g., in the parking lot 180).

[0043] In some implementations, an active key fob 210 transmits a rolling code. The key fob 210 and the vehicle 220 are configured with a same algorithm for generating pseudorandom numbers used for the rolling code. For instance, at block 230, the fob 210 may generate the rolling code. The fob 210 may transmit a signal 232 including the rolling code. At block 234, the vehicle 220 may check the rolling code of the signal 232 against one or more rolling codes generated at the vehicle 220. At block 236, the vehicle 220 may unlock the vehicle in response to detecting a correct rolling code.

[0044] The sensor 162 may also receive the signal 232. The sensor 162 may determine signal properties 250 based on the signal 232. For example, the signal properties 250 may include the transmitted rolling code. The signal properties 250 may include information such as the frequency, duration, signal strength, or modulation of the signal 232. Such signal properties 250 may be associated with certain makes or models of vehicles and / or keyless entry systems. At block 252, the sensor 162 and / or key fob monitoring system 160 may associate the signal properties 250 with a record.9AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOIn some implementations, the security system 102 may use information from other sources such as cameras 120 to detect other information associated with the signal 232. For example, a video feed may be analyzed to identify a vehicle that responded to the signal 232 or an individual that entered or exited the vehicle. Such information may also be stored in the record in association with the signal properties 250.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a message diagram 300 illustrating example messages with a passive key fob 310. A passive key fob 310 is configured to transmit a signal to a vehicle 320 in response to a signal from the vehicle 320. Most passive keyless entry systems rely on a protocol with a 4 message handshake. The vehicle 320 transmits a wake up message 330. The fob 310 transmits an acknowledgment 332. The first two messages are used for key fob proximity detection. That is, if the acknowledgment 332 is received, the vehicle 320 assumes the fob 310 is within a short distance. The vehicle 320 then transmits a challenge 334, and the fob 310 responds with a response 336. The third and fourth messages are used to authenticate the key fob to the vehicle. Generally, the vehicle is not authenticated to the key fob. The wake up message 330 and the acknowledgment 332 are generally static messages, which may be reused by the same vehicle or make and model of vehicle or keyless entry system.

[0046] In an aspect, the key fob monitoring system 160 may monitor the acknowledgment 332. In some implementations, a sensor 162 may generate a wake up message 350 that is a copy of a wake up message for a vehicle 320. Because passive key fobs 310 are configured to respond to a wake up message without interaction by a user, a sensor 162 does not need to be located near the vehicle 320 to trigger a key fob 310 to transmit the acknowledgment 332.

[0047] In some implementations, the wake up message 350 may be a replay of a wake up message 330 detected in the parking lot 180. Alternatively, the wake up message 350 may be selected from a list or database of wake up messages. The transmission time for the wake up message 350 is relatively short (e.g., 2 ms), so a sensor 162 may cycle through a large number of wake up messages 350 to trigger different passive key fobs 310 to transmit acknowledgments 352. The static content of an acknowledgment 352 may serve as an identifier of a key fob.

[0048] In some implementations, the key fob monitoring system 160 may further transmit a challenge 354. For instance, the key fob monitoring system 160 may identify a protocol associated with an acknowledgment 352 and transmit the challenge 354 based on the protocol. The passive key fob 310 may generate a response 356 based on 10AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOthe challenge 354. Even if the challenge 354 is unrelated to a vehicle 320, the response 356 may be based on an internal key of the passive key fob 310. Therefore, the response 356 may uniquely identify the passive key fob 310.

[0049] The sensor 162 and / or the key fob monitoring system 160 may determine signal properties 360. For example, the signal properties 360 may include the content of an acknowledgment 352 or a response 356. In some implementations, the signal properties 360 may also include information such as the frequency, duration, signal strength, modulation, or angle of arrival. Such signal properties 360 may provide information about the relative location of the sensor 162 and the passive key fob 310. At block 362, the sensor 162 and / or key fob monitoring system 160 may associate the signal properties 360 with a record. In some implementations, the security system 102 may use information from other sources such as cameras 120 to detect other information associated with the passive key fob 310. For example, a video feed may be analyzed to identify a vehicle that responded to the response 336 or an individual that entered or exited the vehicle. Such information may also be stored in the record in association with the signal properties 360.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a diagram of an example record including a key fob identifier. For example, the record may be in a database 150 of loss events and / or repeat offenders. For instance, a repeat offender database may store known information about people who are suspected of committing offenses or known to commit offenses. For example, the database 150 may be maintained by an operator of a single premises, an operator of a chain of premises, or a security company that monitors multiple premises. The records in the database 150 may include multiple fields, but the records may be sparsely populated because the information is gathered as it becomes available. For example, a video may record a person shoplifting from a retail location, and traits such as a size and gait may be detected, but the suspected person may conceal their face.

[0051] In the illustrated example, the record 400 includes fields for an identifier 410, a threat level 420, and traits such as a facial profile 430, gait profile 432, size profile 434, associates 436, vehicle 438, key fob identifier 440, and loss events 442. The identifier 410 may be a unique identifier assigned to a record. In some cases, when multiple records are determined to refer to the same person (e.g., based on a number of matching traits), the records may be combined into a record with a single identifier 410. The threat level 420 may be a rating assigned based on the number and types of offenses committed. For example, a single suspected low-value shoplifting offense may be 11AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOassigned a low value, whereas a violent offense including a weapon (i.e., armed robbery) may be assigned a high value. The field for loss events 442 may include an identifier or link to a record for a loss event. The record for a loss event may include a date, value, list of items, etc. A record may include a value for a trait or indicate that the value is unknown (e.g.,The value for each trait may be defined for each trait. For illustrative purposes, alphanumeric sequences are shown to represent unique values.

[0052] In an aspect, the key fob monitoring system 160 may collect information regarding key fobs associated with an individual. The illustrated example shows records 450, 452, 454 for three known offenders. The record 450 may represent an offender with a high risk level. The record 452 may represent an offender associated with the record 450 (e.g., a getaway driver). The record 454 may represent a low-level offender with some similarities to the record 450.

[0053] In an example scenario, the security system 102 may generate the record 450 in response to detecting a loss event. For instance, the security system 102 may store features associated with an individual present in a video of goods including tags being removed from the premises without authorization. The features may include characteristics based on the video (e.g., gait profile 432 and size profile 434) as well as a key fob identifier 440 captured by a sensor 162 based on one or more of the messages discussed above. In some implementations, an external camera 120 may capture an identifier of a vehicle.

[0054] In an aspect, a second record 452 may be associated with the first record 450 based on the key fob identifier 440. For example, if the key fob is later detected in association with a second person, the second record 452 may indicate the second person is an associate of the first person (i.e., record 450). The security system 102 may capture video of the second person in the parking lot 180 and / or within the premises 100 and populate other fields of the record 452.

[0055] In some implementations, the security system 102 may evaluate whether to activate a security measure based on match of a key fob to a record including a key fob identifier. For example, if the record 450 is associated with a loss event, and the key fob identifier 440 is later detected either in the parking lot 180 or within the premises, the security system 102 may activate a security measure. For instance, the security system 102 may track a person associated with the key fob using cameras 120. In some implementations, the security system 102 may lock a door or shelf in response to 12AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOdetecting the key fob. The selected security measure may be associated with the threat level 420.

[0056] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram depicting a system 500, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The system 500 is shown to include one or more communication devices 510, a processing unit 520, and one or more tracking devices 530.

[0057] The communication device 510 is configured to communicate with an electronic device 540 associated with a person. The electronic device 540 may communicate with other devices using suitable technology. The electronic device 540 may be a personal device associated with the person. The electronic device 540 can be worn by the person or carried with the person. In some embodiments, the electronic device 540 may be a mobile phone or an accessory of the mobile phone that can communicate wirelessly with other devices. In some embodiments, the electronic device 540 may be a short range communication device, such as a radio frequency (RF) capable device that can communicate wirelessly using radio signals. For example, the electronic device 540 may be a vehicle key fob. In some other embodiments, the electronic device 540 may be a wearable device, such as a watch that can communicate with other devices wirelessly. It is to be noted that the electronic device described in the present disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned examples, and the electronic device can be any suitable device that can communicate with other devices using suitable technologies and communication protocols, either actively or passively.

[0058] The communication device 510 may implement a suitable technology based on a communication protocol or technology of the electronic device 540. In some embodiments, the communication device 510 may include a radio frequency (RF) antenna to communicate with the electronic device 540 via radio signals. The communication device 510 may generate radio signals via the RF antenna. When the electronic device 540 passes nearby the communication device 510, the electronic device 540 receives the radio signals and transmits a unique identifier to the communication device 510. For example, when a person carrying a vehicle key fob passes nearby the communication device 510, the vehicle key fob may receive radio signals generated by the communication device 510 and transmit a unique identifier to the communication device 510 in response to received radio signals. In some embodiments, the unique identifier includes vehicle information. In some other embodiments, the unique identifier includes information about performing one or more 13AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOtasks by the vehicle. To enable data transmission from the key fob, the communication device 510 may generate radio signals like radio signals generated by the vehicle of the key fob.

[0059] The communication device 510 may be installed at a suitable location of a controlled environment. The controlled environment may include a retail space. The retail space includes a merchandise area and surrounding area, for example, a lobby outside the merchandise area, parking areas, staircases, lifts entrance and exits, passages connecting the parking area and the merchandise area of the retail space, entrance, exit ways, entry and exit gates, etc. The merchandise area refers to an area of the retail space where articles are placed, and a customer can purchase the articles by accessing proper channel provided in the merchandise area. The communication device 510 may be integral to or provided in a pedestal of an electronic article surveillance (EAS) system. The pedestal may be installed at an exit of the retail space.

[0060] The system 500 may include a plurality of communication devices 510 installed at various suitable locations. For example, the communication devices 510 may be installed in a lobby or corridor outside the merchandise area of the retail space. Alternatively, or additionally, the communication devices 510 may be installed in parking area or any other areas corresponding to the retail space.

[0061] The processing unit 520 includes a memory 550 and a processor 525 communicatively coupled to the memory 550. The memory 550 may include one or more devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code for completing and / or facilitating the various processes described in the present disclosure. The memory 550 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. The memory 550 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. The memory 550 may be communicably connected to the processor 525 via a processing unit and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by the processor 525) one or more processes described herein.

[0062] The processor 525 may be a general purpose or specific purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing 14AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOcomponents. The processor 525 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in the memory 550 or received from other computer readable media (e.g., CDROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.). In some embodiments, the processing unit 520 may include more than one processor 525 to execute processes described herein the present disclosure. Further, components of the processing unit 520 may be provided in one device or distributed in a plurality of devices placed at same or different locations. In some embodiments, the processing unit 520 or a component thereof may be hosted in an EAS system provided in the controlled environment. In some implementations, the processing unit 520 or a component thereof may be hosted on a server or datacenter of a cloud network.

[0063] The processing unit 520 may be provided as a part of the EAS system or a standalone unit in communication with the communication devices 510 and the tracking devices 530. The processing unit 520 may be provided as a part of a store management system of the retail space. The one or more tracking devices 530 may include a camera that can capture the visuals of one or more persons, such as, an image and / or a video. The tracking device 530 is in communication with the processing unit 520 to transmit captured visuals (e.g., images, video, etc.). The tracking devices 530 may be positioned suitably in the retail space to capture the visuals.

[0064] The processing unit 520 communicates with the communication device(s) 510 to receive the unique identifier transmitted by the electronic device 540 associated with the person. The memory 550 may include a data collector 560 to receive the unique identifier and store the unique identifier with a timestamp in a database 580 provided in the processing unit 520 as the unique identifier data. In some embodiments, the data collector 560 receives the unique identifier from multiple communication devices 510, and stores the unique identifier in the database 580 with a timestamp and a tag or code corresponding to specific communication device 510 that received the unique identifier. In some embodiments, codes, or tags of the communication devices 510 and their location may be stored in the database 580.

[0065] In some embodiments, the memory 550 may include an image module 565 configured to access one or more tracking devices 530 to capture visual(s) of the person having the electronic device 540. The image module 565 may utilize the tracking devices 530 to capture visual(s) of the person when the electronic device 540 of that person transmits the unique identifier. The image module 565 stores the visual(s)15AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOcorresponding to the unique identifier with a timestamp in the database 580 as personal data.

[0066] The memory 550 further includes a suspect analyzer 570 to determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment (for example, the retail space). In the context of the present disclosure, the suspicious activity includes any unusual activity that poses a potential threat or that is an illegal activity. The suspicious activity may be, but not limited to, shoplifting or theft, fights, rage behavior, aggressive behavior, checkout fraud, etc. Further, in the context of the present disclosure, the person is said to be related to the suspicious activity when the person is involved in or causing the suspicious activity. The suspect analyzer 570 may receive input from other system(s) regarding the person being related to the suspicious activity. In some other embodiments, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity based on tracking of the electronic device 540 associated with the person within the controlled environment (for example, the retail space). The suspect analyzer 570 may fetch the unique identifier data from the database 580. The unique identifier data has details of the communication devices 510 that have received the unique identifier indicating that the person passed nearby that communication device 510. The suspect analyzer 570 analyzes the unique identifier data to determine the track of the person within the retail space. Further, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity based on travel path of the person. For example, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity if the electronic device 540 of the person passed nearby the communication device 510 in proximity of the place where the suspicious activity has occurred. In some embodiments, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity if the electronic device 540 passes nearby the communication device 510 placed at an exit of the retail space during the time at which the suspicious activity has occurred.

[0067] In some other embodiments, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity based on visuals received from one or more tracking devices 530. The suspect analyzer 570 may implement image processing techniques to determine the relation between the person and the suspicious activity. Once the suspect analyzer 570 determines that the person is related to the suspicious activity, the suspect analyzer 570 fetches the personal data from the database 580 to identify the unique identifier corresponding to that person. The suspect analyzer 57016AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOmay tag the person related to the suspicious activity as a suspect and stores the unique identifier and / or visual of the person in the database 580 as suspect data. In other examples, the suspect analyzer 570 may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity using any other suitable technique or based on input received from other systems.

[0068] In some other aspects, the suspect analyzer 570 may initially determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity and further the data collector 560 communicates with the electronic device 540 of the person (i.e., Suspect) to receive the unique identifier.

[0069] The suspect analyzer 570 may further determine if the suspect is a repeat offender. The suspect analyzer 570 may analyze historical suspect data to determine if the suspect is a repeat offender. The suspect may be termed as a repeat offender if the unique identifier or the visual of the suspect is present in the historical suspect data. In some other embodiments, the suspect analyzer 570 may receive the unique identifier from the data collector 560. The suspect analyzer 570 may receive the unique identifier while the person is entering the retail space. The suspect analyzer 570 may analyze historical suspect data to determine if the person is a repeat offender. In case of the person being the repeat offender, the processing unit 520 may communicate details (for example, the unique identifier, visuals, etc.) related to the person to store management facility so that the person can be monitored in the retail space, and any suspicious activity (for example, theft) can be prevented.

[0070] The processing unit 520 further includes a vehicle identifier 575 to identify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity. In some embodiments, the vehicle identifier 575 may track the electronic device 540 in a parking area of the retail space. The vehicle identifier 575 may access the unique identifier data in the database 580 corresponding to the unique identifier of the electronic device 540 associated with the suspect, and extract details of the communication devices 510 that have received the unique identifier. Based on locations of the communication devices 510, the vehicle identifier 575 may determine travel path of the electronic device 540 in the parking area, and further determine a vehicle of the suspect based on determined travel path of the electronic device 540.

[0071] In some other embodiments, the vehicle identifier 575 is in communication with one or more tracking devices 530 to track the person (i.e., Suspect) for identifying the vehicle. The vehicle identifier 575 may access the personal data in the database 58017AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOto fetch visuals of the suspect based on the unique identifier determined by the suspect analyzer 570. In some embodiments, the vehicle identifier 575 may access the tracking devices 530 to determine travel path of the person based on location of the tracking devices 530 and the visuals of the person. In some other embodiments, the vehicle identifier 575 may receive feed from the tracking devices 530. The vehicle identifier 575 may determine travel path of the person based on analysis of the feed. For example, the vehicle identifier 575 may implement image processing techniques to determine if the person is captured in the tracking devices 530. Based on number of tracking devices 530 that captured the person, time of capture, and location of tracking devices 530, the vehicle identifier 575 may determine travel path of the person. The vehicle identifier 575 may utilize the tracking devices 530 in the parking area to track the person to identify the vehicle.

[0072] In some other embodiments, the processing unit 520 may implement artificial intelligence / machine learning techniques to track the person using the tracking devices 530. The processing unit 520 may be trained with visuals of previous suspects, and the processing unit 520 may track the suspect using the tracking devices 530. In some embodiments, the processing unit 520 may implement artificial intelligence / machine learning techniques to determine the relation between the person and suspicious activity, and further track the person to his vehicle if the person is associated with any suspicious activity.

[0073] The vehicle identifier 575 may determine registration details of the vehicle. The vehicle identifier 575 may utilize the tracking devices 530 to capture the visuals of the vehicle, and further process the visuals to determine the registration details of the vehicle. The data related to the unique identifier received from the electronic device 540 and / or the registration details of the vehicle may serve as additional data points for further investigation and prosecution.

[0074] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the vehicle identifier 575 may be configured to determine the vehicle based on the unique identifier. For example, in case of the electronic device 540 being a vehicle key fob, the vehicle identifier 575 may be configured to analyze the unique identifier or signals received from the vehicle key fob to determine the vehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle identifier 575 may be configured to determine registration details of the vehicle based on the unique identifier or signals received from the vehicle key fob. The vehicle18AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOidentifier 575 may utilize the tracking devices 530 (for example, camaras in the parking area) to track the vehicle.

[0075] Referring now to FIG. 6, illustrated is an example computer device 600 in accordance with an implementation. In one example, computer device 600 may include processor 48 for carrying out processing functions associated with one or more of components and functions described herein. Processor 48 can include a single or multiple set of processors or multi-core processors. Moreover, processor 48 can be implemented as an integrated processing system and / or a distributed processing system. In an implementation, for example, processor 48 may include a CPU.

[0076] In an example, computer device 600 may include memory 60 for storing instructions executable by the processor 48 for carrying out the functions described herein. Memory 60 may be configured for storing data and / or computer-executable instructions defining and / or associated with an operating system 652 and / or applications (e.g., key fob monitoring application 660), and processor 48 execute operating system 652 and / or applications. Memory 60 may represent one or more hardware memory devices accessible to computer device 600. An example of memory 60 can include, but is not limited to, a type of memory usable by a computer, such as random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), tapes, magnetic discs, optical discs, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and any combination thereof. Memory 60 may store local versions of applications being executed by processor 48. In an implementation, the memory 60 may include a storage device, which may be a non-volatile memory.

[0077] Further, computer device 600 may include a communications component 62 that provides for establishing and maintaining communications with one or more parties utilizing hardware, software, and services as described herein. Communications component 62 may carry communications between components on computer device 600, as well as between computer device 600 and external devices, such as devices located across a communications network and / or devices serially or locally connected to computer device 600. For example, communications component 62 may include one or more buses, and may further include transmit chain components and receive chain components associated with a transmitter and receiver, respectively, operable for interfacing with external devices.

[0078] Additionally, computer device 600 may include a data store 64, which can be any suitable combination of hardware and / or software, that provides for mass storage 19AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOof information, databases, and programs employed in connection with implementations described herein. For example, data store 64 may be a data repository for operating system 652 and / or applications. The data store may include memory 60.

[0079] Computer device 600 may also include a user interface component 66 operable to receive inputs from a user of computer device 600 and further operable to generate outputs for presentation to the user. User interface component 66 may include one or more input devices, including but not limited to a keyboard, a number pad, a mouse, a touch-sensitive display, a digitizer, a navigation key, a function key, a microphone, a voice recognition component, any other mechanism capable of receiving an input from a user, or any combination thereof. Further, user interface component 66 may include one or more output devices, including but not limited to a display, a speaker, a haptic feedback mechanism, a printer, any other mechanism capable of presenting an output to a user, or any combination thereof.

[0080] In an implementation, user interface component 66 may transmit and / or receive messages corresponding to the operation of operating system 652 and / or applications. In addition, processor 48 may execute operating system 652 and / or applications, and memory 60 or data store 64 may store them.

[0081] In some implementations, the computer device 600 may implement one or more components of the key fob monitoring system 160 as a key fob monitoring application 660. For example, the key fob monitoring application 660 may include one or more of a loss detection component 662, a key fob detection component 664, a records component 666, or a security component 668.

[0082] The loss detection component 662 is configured to detect a loss event at a premises. For instance, the loss detection component 662 may receive tag detection events and determine whether the tag detection event is indicative of an unauthorized movement of a tagged product. In some implementations, the loss detection component 662 may detect a loss event when it detects a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system.

[0083] The key fob detection component 664 is configured to detect a presence of a key fob of a keyless entry system. For example, the key fob detection component 664 may communicate with a key fob via one or more sensors 162 using known active or passive keyless entry system frequencies and / or protocols. For instance, the key fob detection component 664 may control a sensor 162 to transmit or receive the messages as discussed above with respect to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. The key fob detection component 20AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO664 may determine an identifier of a key fob. The identifier may depend on the type of key fob and / or the communications protocol used by the key fob. In some implementations, the identifier may include one or more properties of a message received from a key fob.

[0084] The records component 666 is configured to maintain records of loss events and / or known offenders. For example, the records component 666 may store the record 400 discussed above with respect to FIG. 4. The records component 666 may associate an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record. For instance, the records component 666 may store an identifier of the key fob 164 in the key fob identifier 440 field of the record 400.

[0085] The security component 668 is configured to activate a security measure based on the identifier of the key fob. For example, the security component 668 may activate a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event. For instance, the security measure may include collecting additional information associated with the loss event and / or the key fob. As another example, the security component 668 may activate a security measure in response to detecting an identifier of a key fob that is stored in a record 400. For instance, the security component 668 may generate an alarm, contact law enforcement, or control a lock on a door or shelf in response to detecting the identifier of the key fob 164.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 7, in accordance with another aspect, the present disclosure discloses a method 700 to detect a suspect in a controlled environment, for example, a retail space. FIGs. 7-15 depict the steps of a method 700, according to some embodiments. The steps of the method 700 may be executed by the system 500 or any other suitable system. For example, method 700 may be performed by the system 500 or the key fob monitoring system 160. The key fob monitoring system 160 and / or key fob monitoring application 660 may be executed on the computer device 600. In some implementations, the computer device 600 includes a processor and memory for executing one or more of the operations described herein. Optional blocks are shown with dashed lines.

[0087] The method 700 includes a step of communicating with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person by one or more communication devices in a controlled environment (Step 710). The controlled environment may include a retail space including a merchandize area, lobby, corridor, parking area, lifts, staircases, etc. The communication devices may be located at suitable locations of the retail space. The 21AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOcommunication devices are configured to communicate with the electronic device associated with the person using suitable technology and communication protocols. The method 700 includes a step of receiving, by the one or more communication devices, the unique identifier from the electronic device (Step 720). In some examples, the communication devices may generate radio signals, and the electronic device responds to the radio signals by transmitting a unique identifier. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be a radio frequency capable device, for example, a vehicle key fob of person’s vehicle. The electronic device may transmit a predetermined unique identifier when the electronic device is in the range of any communication device.

[0088] The method 700 includes determining, by a processing unit, whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment (Step 730). The processing unit may receive the unique identifier from one or more communication devices. The processing unit may operate the tracking device(s) to capture image of the person having the electronic device. The processing unit may be provided with locations of the communication devices that have received the unique identifier with a timestamp. The processing unit may determine whether the person is related to the suspicious activity based on tracking of the electronic device within the retail space or analyzing video feed in the retail store or using any other suitable method. In some embodiments, the processing unit may receive input regarding the person being associated with the suspicious activity from another system, for example, store facility / management system.

[0089] The method 700 includes identifying, by the processing unit, a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity (Step 740).

[0090] Turning to FIG. 8, an example method 800 operates the key fob monitoring system 160 in association with a suspected loss event. For example, method 800 may be performed by the key fob monitoring system 160 as a part of the method 700. The key fob monitoring system 160 and / or key fob monitoring application 660 may be executed on the computer device 600. In some implementations, the computer device 600 includes a processor and memory for executing one or more of the operations described herein. Optional blocks are shown with dashed lines.

[0091] At Step 810, the method 800 includes detecting a loss event at a premises. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 and / or the loss detection component 662 may detect a loss event at a premises 100. For example, the loss detection component 22AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO662 may detect unauthorized movement of a radio frequency identification tag associated with an item. In some implementations, for example, the Step 810 may optionally include detecting movement of the tag toward an exit. In some implementations, for example, the Step 810 may optionally include detecting a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system.

[0092] At Step 820, the method 800 includes detecting a presence of a key fob of a keyless entry system. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160, sensor 162, and / or the key fob detection component 664 may detect a presence of a key fob of a keyless entry system. For example, the sensor 162 may detect one or more messages of an active keyless entry protocol as described above with respect to FIG. 2 or a passive keyless entry protocol as described above with respect to FIG. 3. The key fob detection component 664 may determine an identifier of the key fob 164 based on the received signals.

[0093] At Step 830, the method 800 includes associating an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 and / or the records component 666 may associate the identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record. In some implementations where the loss event is based on a tagged item, the record includes an identifier of the item and the identifier of the key fob.

[0094] At Step 840, the method 800 may optionally include associating the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 and / or the records component 666 may associate the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob.

[0095] At Step 850, the method 800 may optionally include activating a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 and / or the security component 668 may activate the security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an example method 900 for responding to a detected key fob. The method 900 may be performed after the method 800. For example, method 900 may be performed by the key fob monitoring system 160. The key fob monitoring system 160 and / or key fob monitoring application 660 may be executed on the computer device 600. Optional blocks are shown with dashed lines.

[0097] At Step 910, the method 900 includes detecting an identifier of a key fob of a keyless entry system at an entrance to a premises. For example, the key fob monitoring 23AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOsystem 160 and / or the key fob detection component 664 may detect an identifier of a key fob of a keyless entry system at an entrance to the premises 100.

[0098] At Step 920, the method 900 includes activating a security measure for the premises based on a risk score for a record in a repeat offender database that includes the identifier of the key fob. For example, the key fob monitoring system 160 and / or the security component 668 may activate the security measure for the premises based on a risk score for a record in a repeat offender database that includes the identifier of the key fob.

[0099] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10, the processing unit may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity (in Step 730) by tracking the electronic device within the retail space (Step 1000). The processing unit may determine travel path of the electronic device based on the locations of the communication devices that have received the unique identifier and time of receiving the unique identifier. In some embodiments, the processing unit may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity if the electronic device is tracked near a location of the suspicious activity at around same time when the suspicious activity occurred.

[0100] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, the processing unit may determine that the person is related to the suspicious activity (in Step 730) by analyzing visuals from one or more tracking devices (Step 1010). The processing unit may capture visual of the person while receiving the unique identifier and tag received visual with the unique identifier. Using the visual and analysis of visuals received from the tracking device(s), the processing unit may determine whether the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0101] The processing unit may save visuals and / or the unique identifier of the person being related to the suspicious activity as a suspect in suspect data stored in the database.

[0102] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the processing unit may determine the vehicle (e.g., Step 740) based on tracking of the electronic device in a parking area (Step 1020). The processing unit may identify the communication devices in the parking area that have received the unique identifier. Based on location of the communication devices and time of receiving the unique identifier, the processing unit may track the electronic device to identify the vehicle. For example, to capture image or record a video of the vehicle, the processing unit may operate the tracking device in 24AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOthe parking area proximal to the communication device that received the unique identifier lastly.

[0103] In some other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13, the processing unit may determine the vehicle (e.g., Step 740) by tracking the person using one or more tracking devices (Step 1030). The processing unit may fetch visuals of the suspect from the suspect data. Further, using one or more tracking devices (for example, cameras in the parking area), the processing unit may track the person to identify the vehicle associated with the person. In some embodiments, the processing unit may receive feed from the tracking devices. The processing unit may analyze the feed to identify the suspect and track the suspect’s activity in the parking area. Further, the processing unit may determine the vehicle associated with the suspect.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 14, the method 700 may include a step of determining registration details of the vehicle (Step 1040). Once the vehicle of the suspect is determined, the processing unit may determine the registration details using the one or more tracking devices. The processing unit may capture images or videos of the vehicle and may further determine the registration details using image processing techniques.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 15, the method 700 may include a step of determining if the person is a repeat offender based on historical suspect data (Step 1050). The processing unit may check if credentials (for example, visuals or unique identifier) of current suspect are present in the historical suspect data. If affirmative, the processing unit may tag the suspect as a repeat offender. In some embodiments, the processing unit may check if the unique identifier and / or the visuals of the person are present in the historical suspect data while the person is entering the retail space. If the unique identifier and / or the visuals of the person are present in the historical suspect data, the processing unit may tag the person as a repeat offender, and further, may transmit the unique identifier, the visuals, and / or any other details of the person to a store facility / management system so that the person can be monitored while he is in the retail space to avoid any potential theft or suspicious activity.

[0106] FIG. 16 is a block diagram depicting an electronic apparatus 1100, according to another aspect of the present disclosure. The electronic apparatus 1100 includes a housing 1110 and a processing circuit 1120. In some embodiments, the housing 1110 may be a pedestal provided in a controlled environment, for example, a retail space, and the processing circuit 1120 may be provided in the pedestal. In some other embodiments, the processing circuit 1120 may be provided in the housing 1110, and 25AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOthe housing 1110 is provided within the pedestal or within any other suitable platform. The processing circuit 1120 is configured to communicate with a key fob 1130 located within the controlled environment, and configured to identify a unique identifier of the key fob 1130 to facilitate tracking of an associated vehicle. The processing circuit 1120 may implement a suitable technology based on a communication protocol or technology of the key fob 1130. For example, the processing circuit 1120 may include a communication device having an RF antenna to communicate with the key fob 1130 via radio signals. The processing circuit 1120 may include a processor and a memory in communication with the communication device to determine the unique identifier based on signals received from the key fob 1130.

[0107] In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, the system may be configured to communicate with a store facility / management system to transmit the unique identifiers and / or personal details of persons. The store management system may associate the unique identifier with purchase details of the person. The management system may further provide specific information about purchased products, send push notifications to the person, etc., based on the purchase details. In some embodiments, the store management system may provide specific product details to the person based on his unique identifier and purchase history when the person visits the store next time.

[0108] As used in this application, the terms “component,” “system” and the like are intended to include a computer-related entity, such as but not limited to hardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and / or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a computer device and the computer device can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process and / or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and / or distributed between two or more computers. In addition, these components can execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local and / or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets, such as data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and / or across a network such as the Internet with other systems by way of the signal.26AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO

[0109] Moreover, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by any of the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a singular form.

[0110] Additional example implementations are described in the following numbered clauses:[OHl] Clause 1. A suspect detection system, comprising: one or more communication devices configured to communicate with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person in a controlled environment to receive a unique identifier from the RF device; and a processing unit in communication with the communication devices to receive the unique identifier and configured to: determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and identify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0112] Clause 2. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the RF device is a vehicle key fob.

[0113] Clause 3. The suspect detection system of clause 2, wherein the processing unit is further configured to: detect a loss event at a premises; detect a presence of a key fob of a keyless entry system; and associate an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record.

[0114] Clause 4. The suspect detection system of clause 3, wherein to detect the loss event, the processing unit is configured to detect a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system, wherein the record includes an identifier of the item and the identifier of the key fob.

[0115] Clause 5. The suspect detection system of clause 3, , wherein the processing unit is further configured to activate a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event.

[0116] Clause 6. The suspect detection system of clause 5, wherein the processing unit is further configured to associate the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob.27AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO

[0117] Clause 7. The suspect detection system of clause 2, further comprising one or more radio frequency receivers configured to receive the identifier of the key fob in an active signal transmitted by the key fob.

[0118] Clause 8. The suspect detection system of clause 7, wherein the one or more radio frequency receivers are located in a parking area associated with the controlled environment.

[0119] Clause 9. The suspect detection system of clause 2, further comprising one or more radio frequency transceivers configured to: initiate a handshake protocol of a passive keyless entry system; and receive the identifier of the key fob in a response signal.

[0120] Clause 10. The system of clause 9, wherein the response signal is a wake up signal acknowledgment message and the identifier of the key fob is an acknowledgment code.

[0121] Clause 11. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the processing unit tracks the RF device in a parking area to identify the vehicle.

[0122] Clause 12. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the processing unit is in communication with one or more tracking devices to track the person for identifying the vehicle.

[0123] Clause 13. The suspect detection system of clause 12, wherein the one or more tracking devices comprise a camera.

[0124] Clause 14. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the processing unit determines registration details of the vehicle.

[0125] Clause 15. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the processing unit determines if the person is a repeat offender based on historical suspect data.

[0126] Clause 16. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein one or more communication devices are provided in a pedestal installed at an exit of a retail space.

[0127] Clause 17. The suspect detection system of clause 1, wherein the processing unit or a component thereof is hosted in an electronic article surveillance (EAS) system provided in the controlled environment.

[0128] Clause 18. A method to detect a suspect, comprising: communicating with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person by one or more communication devices in a controlled environment; receiving, by the one or more communication devices, a unique identifier from the RF device; determining, by a processing unit, whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and 28AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOidentifying, by the processing unit, a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0129] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, wherein the RF device is a vehicle key fob of a keyless entry system.

[0130] Clause 20. The method of clause 19, further comprising: detecting, via one or more wireless sensors, a loss event at a premises; and associating an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record.

[0131] Clause 21. The method of clause 20, wherein detecting the loss event comprises detecting a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system, wherein the record includes an identifier of the item and the identifier of the key fob.

[0132] Clause 22. The method of clause 20, further comprising activating a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event.

[0133] Clause 23. The method of clause 22, further comprising associating the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob.

[0134] Clause 24. The method of clause 20, further comprising: detecting the identifier of the key fob of the keyless entry system at an entrance to the premises; and activating a security measure for the premises based on a risk score for the record in a repeat offender database that includes the identifier of the key fob.

[0135] Clause 25. The method of clause 24, wherein detecting the identifier comprises receiving the identifier of the key fob in an active signal transmitted by the key fob at one or more radio frequency receivers.

[0136] Clause 26. The method of clause 25, wherein the one or more radio frequency receivers are located in a parking area associated with the premises.

[0137] Clause 27. The method of clause 24, wherein detecting the identifier comprises: initiating a handshake protocol of a passive keyless entry system via one or more radio frequency transceivers; and receiving the identifier of the key fob in a response signal.

[0138] Clause 28. The method of clause 27, wherein the response signal is a wake up signal acknowledgment message and the identifier of the key fob is an acknowledgment code.

[0139] Clause 29. The method of clause 18, further comprising tracking of the RF device within the controlled environment to determine a relation between the person and the suspicious activity.29AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO

[0140] Clause 30. The method of clause 18, further comprising analyzing visuals from one or more tracking devices to determine a relation between the person and the suspicious activity.

[0141] Clause 31. The method of clause 18, wherein the vehicle is determined by tracking the RF device in a parking area.

[0142] Clause 32. The method of clause 18, wherein the vehicle is determined by tracking the person using one or more tracking devices.

[0143] Clause 33. The method of clause 18, further comprising determining registration details of the vehicle.

[0144] Clause 34. The method of clause 18, further comprising determining if the person is repeat offender based on historical suspect data.

[0145] Clause 35. An electronic apparatus comprising: a housing; and a processing circuit to communicate with a key fob located within a controlled environment and configured to identify a unique identifier of the key fob to facilitate tracking of an associated vehicle.

[0146] Clause 36. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computerexecutable instructions, that when executed by a processor cause the processor to: receive the unique identifier and configured to: determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; and identify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

[0147] Clause 37. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of clause 19, further comprising instructions to perform the method of any of clauses 18-34.

[0148] Various implementations or features may have been presented in terms of systems that may include a number of devices, components, modules, and the like. A person skilled in the art should understand and appreciate that the various systems may include additional devices, components, modules, etc. and / or may not include all of the devices, components, modules etc. discussed in connection with the figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used.

[0149] The various illustrative logics, logical blocks, and actions of methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a specially-programmed one of a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to 30AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOperform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but, in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computer devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Additionally, at least one processor may comprise one or more components operable to perform one or more of the steps and / or actions described above.

[0150] Further, the steps and / or actions of a method or procedure described in connection with the implementations disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium may be coupled to the processor, such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. Further, in some implementations, the processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. Additionally, the ASIC may reside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in a user terminal. Additionally, in some implementations, the steps and / or actions of a method or procedure may reside as one or any combination or set of codes and / or instructions on a machine readable medium and / or computer readable medium, which may be incorporated into a computer program product.

[0151] In one or more implementations, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Non-transitory computer-readable media excludes transitory signals. A storage medium may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by 31AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOa computer. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs usually reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0152] While implementations of the present disclosure have been described in connection with examples thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations and modifications of the implementations described above may be made without departing from the scope hereof. Other implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of the specification or from a practice in accordance with examples disclosed herein.32AFSDOCS:304333351.2

Claims

1. Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WOCLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A suspect detection system, comprising:one or more communication devices configured to communicate with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person in a controlled environment to receive a unique identifier from the RF device; anda processing unit in communication with the communication devices to receive the unique identifier and configured to:determine whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; andidentify a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

2. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein the RF device is a vehicle key fob.

3. The suspect detection system of claim 2, wherein the processing unit is further configured to:detect a loss event at a premises;detect a presence of a key fob of a keyless entry system; andassociate an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record.

4. The suspect detection system of claim 3, wherein to detect the loss event, the processing unit is configured to detect a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system, wherein the record includes an identifier of the item and the identifier of the key fob.

5. The suspect detection system of claim 3, , wherein the processing unit is further configured to activate a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event.33AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO6. The suspect detection system of claim 5, wherein the processing unit is further configured to associate the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob.

7. The suspect detection system of claim 2, further comprising one or more radio frequency receivers configured to receive the identifier of the key fob in an active signal transmitted by the key fob.

8. The suspect detection system of claim 7, wherein the one or more radio frequency receivers are located in a parking area associated with the controlled environment.

9. The suspect detection system of claim 2, further comprising one or more radio frequency transceivers configured to:initiate a handshake protocol of a passive keyless entry system; and receive the identifier of the key fob in a response signal.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the response signal is a wake up signal acknowledgment message and the identifier of the key fob is an acknowledgment code.

11. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit tracks the RF device in a parking area to identify the vehicle.

12. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit is in communication with one or more tracking devices to track the person for identifying the vehicle.

13. The suspect detection system of claim 12, wherein the one or more tracking devices comprise a camera.

14. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit determines registration details of the vehicle.34AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO15. The suspect detection system of claim 1 , wherein the processing unit determines if the person is a repeat offender based on historical suspect data.

16. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein one or more communication devices are provided in a pedestal installed at an exit of a retail space.

17. The suspect detection system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit or a component thereof is hosted in an electronic article surveillance (EAS) system provided in the controlled environment.

18. A method to detect a suspect, comprising:communicating with a radio frequency (RF) device associated with a person by one or more communication devices in a controlled environment; receiving, by the one or more communication devices, a unique identifier from the RF device;determining, by a processing unit, whether the person is related to a suspicious activity in the controlled environment; andidentifying, by the processing unit, a vehicle associated with the person when the person is related to the suspicious activity.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the RF device is a vehicle key fob of a keyless entry system.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:detecting, via one or more wireless sensors, a loss event at a premises; and associating an identifier of the key fob with the loss event in a record.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein detecting the loss event comprises detecting a movement of an item outside of a designated zone in an inventory management system, wherein the record includes an identifier of the item and the identifier of the key fob.

22. The method of claim 20, further comprising activating a security measure in response to associating the identifier of the key fob with the loss event.35AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO23. The method of claim 22, further comprising associating the record with a vehicle based on the identifier of the key fob.

24. The method of claim 20, further comprising:detecting the identifier of the key fob of the keyless entry system at an entrance to the premises; andactivating a security measure for the premises based on a risk score for the record in a repeat offender database that includes the identifier of the key fob.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein detecting the identifier comprises receiving the identifier of the key fob in an active signal transmitted by the key fob at one or more radio frequency receivers.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the one or more radio frequency receivers are located in a parking area associated with the premises.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein detecting the identifier comprises:initiating a handshake protocol of a passive keyless entry system via one or more radio frequency transceivers; andreceiving the identifier of the key fob in a response signal.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the response signal is a wake up signal acknowledgment message and the identifier of the key fob is an acknowledgment code.

29. The method of claim 18, further comprising tracking of the RF device within the controlled environment to determine a relation between the person and the suspicious activity.

30. The method of claim 18, further comprising analyzing visuals from one or more tracking devices to determine a relation between the person and the suspicious activity.36AFSDOCS:304333351.2Docket No: 039636.08203 / RS-25-8847-WO31. The method of claim 18, wherein the vehicle is determined by tracking the RF device in a parking area.

32. The method of claim 18, wherein the vehicle is determined by tracking the person using one or more tracking devices.

33. The method of claim 18, further comprising determining registration details of the vehicle.

34. The method of claim 18, further comprising determining if the person is repeat offender based on historical suspect data.

35. An electronic apparatus comprising:a housing; anda processing circuit to communicate with a key fob located within a controlled environment and configured to identify a unique identifier of the key fob to facilitate tracking of an associated vehicle.37AFSDOCS:304333351.2

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