Multi-Network Location Tracking for Retail Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for locating shoppers, associates, and managers within retail environments are often complex, labor-intensive, and costly, leading to unreliable location tracking and increased operational costs, which negatively impact profit margins and shopper experience.
Innovation Solution
A communication multi-network system with location tracking devices and logic engines that use a combination of mesh and star communication networks to track the X and Y positional coordinates of operators, enabling accurate and efficient location tracking and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional location tracking systems are implemented, then shopper location tracking capability is provided, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular) into a unified multi-network system that automatically selects the most appropriate network for location tracking. This merging approach provides reliable location data across different store environments without requiring separate specialized tracking systems for each protocol, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The location tracking system is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: tracking shopper locations, monitoring associate positions, managing inventory movement, and providing directional guidance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized systems, reducing complexity while maintaining reliable tracking across diverse operational needs.
2Ease of operation
If comprehensive location tracking is implemented, then shopper assistance and product location capabilities are improved, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements location tracking at strategic points within the store rather than continuous full-store monitoring. Location updates are triggered by relevant events such as product scans, aisle transitions, or assistance requests, rather than constant positioning. This partial action approach maintains shopper assistance capabilities while significantly reducing operational costs associated with continuous tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables shoppers to independently locate products and receive directional guidance without requiring store associate intervention. By providing self-service location information through mobile devices, the system improves ease of operation for shoppers while reducing labor costs and operational expenses associated with manual assistance.
3Measurement precision
If existing location systems are deployed, then basic tracking is achieved, but accuracy in locating shoppers relative to products deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enhances location accuracy by incorporating vertical dimension data (floor level, shelf position) in addition to horizontal positioning. This multi-dimensional approach provides precise relative location information between shoppers and products, enabling accurate product location guidance while using standard wireless communication infrastructure rather than complex specialized tracking hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to one or more systems for locating a shopper's, associate's, manager's or vendor's presumed position in a store using a communication multi-network for communication in the store. Specifically, at least one location device is positioned in proximity to, for example, a shopper such that the shopper's presumed position about the store may be known continuously or upon demand to the store.