U.S. patent application number 16/328091 was filed with the patent office on 2019-06-20 for modular shelf sweep detector.
The applicant listed for this patent is InVue Security Products Inc.. Invention is credited to David N. Berglund, Jeffrey A. Grant, Gary A. Taylor.
Application Number | 20190183259 16/328091 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61301581 |
Filed Date | 2019-06-20 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190183259 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Grant; Jeffrey A. ; et
al. |
June 20, 2019 |
MODULAR SHELF SWEEP DETECTOR
Abstract
Modular sweep detectors, systems, and methods for securing items
of merchandise from theft and are provided. In one example, a
modular sweep detector includes a housing configured to engage a
pusher of a pusher device and a sensor configured to engage a
biasing member of the pusher device. The biasing member is
configured to be biased in response to movement of the pusher. The
sensor is configured to detect movement of the pusher for
determining if a predetermined number of items of merchandise have
been removed from the pusher device.
Inventors: |
Grant; Jeffrey A.;
(Charlotte, NC) ; Taylor; Gary A.; (Fort Mill,
SC) ; Berglund; David N.; (Indian Trail, NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
InVue Security Products Inc. |
Charlotte |
NC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61301581 |
Appl. No.: |
16/328091 |
Filed: |
August 30, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
August 30, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2017/049393 |
371 Date: |
February 25, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62381825 |
Aug 31, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/087 20130101;
A47F 1/126 20130101; A47F 3/002 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47F 3/00 20060101
A47F003/00; A47F 1/12 20060101 A47F001/12 |
Claims
1. A modular sweep detector for monitoring a pusher device in a
retail environment, the modular sweep detector comprising: a
housing configured to engage a pusher of the pusher device; and a
sensor configured to engage a biasing member of the pusher device,
the biasing member configured to be biased in response to movement
of the pusher, wherein the sensor is configured to detect movement
of the pusher for determining if a predetermined number of items of
merchandise have been removed from the pusher device.
2. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the sensor
comprises a rotary encoder.
3. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the sensor
comprises a resilient member configured to engage the biasing
member.
4. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the resilient
member is configured to at least conform to a curvature of the
biasing member.
5. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the sensor is
configured to directly contact the biasing member as the pusher is
moved.
6. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the sensor is
configured to be inserted within the biasing member.
7. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the housing is
configured to enclose the pusher.
8. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, wherein the housing is
configured to be snap-fit to the pusher.
9. The modular sweep detector of claim 1, further comprising
wireless communications circuitry contained within the housing.
10. The modular sweep detector of claim 9, further comprising a
power source for providing power for operating the wireless
communications circuitry.
11. A system for monitoring a pusher device in a retail
environment, the system comprising: a modular sweep detector
comprising: a housing configured to engage a pusher of the pusher
device; and a sensor configured to engage a biasing member of the
pusher device, the biasing member configured to be biased in
response to movement of the pusher; and a monitoring device
comprising an alarm for generating an alarm signal, the monitoring
device configured to wirelessly communicate with the modular sweep
detector, wherein the monitoring device is configured to determine
if a predetermined number of items of merchandise have been removed
from the pusher device based on a signal provided by the sensor,
and wherein the monitoring device is configured to generate an
alarm signal if a predetermined number of items of merchandise have
been removed from the pusher device.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the monitoring device is
configured to determine a thickness of each item of merchandise
based on the signal provided by the sensor.
13. The system of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of
modular sweep detectors, wherein the monitoring device is
configured to communicate with each of the plurality of modular
sweep detectors.
14. The system of claim 11, wherein the modular sweep detector is
configured to be paired with the monitoring device.
15. (canceled)
16. The system of claim 11, wherein the biasing member comprises a
clock spring.
17. The system of claim 11, wherein the sensor is configured to be
inserted within the biasing member.
18. The system of claim 11, wherein the sensor is configured to
conform to a curvature of the biasing member.
19. A method for monitoring a pusher device in a retail
environment, the method comprising: wireles sly communicating with
a modular sweep detector, the modular sweep detector configured to
engage a pusher of the pusher device and a sensor configured to
engage a biasing member of the pusher device; determining if a
predetermined number of items of merchandise have been removed from
the pusher device based on a signal provided by the sensor; and
generating an alarm signal if a predetermined number of items of
merchandise have been removed from the pusher device.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising determining a
thickness of each item of merchandise based on the signal provided
by the sensor.
21. The method of claim 19, further comprising wirelessly
communicating with a plurality of modular sweep detectors.
22. The system of claim 11, further comprising the pusher device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/381,825 filed on Aug. 31, 2016, the
entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to
merchandise security, including systems and methods for monitoring
and protecting merchandise from theft in a retail environment.
[0003] Retailers display merchandise for consumers in a manner that
allows consumers to decide whether to purchase the item while at
the same time reducing the incidence of theft. Some merchandise is
displayed in a manner that allows a consumer to take more than one
product at a time for purchase. In some instances, removal of more
than one item of merchandise at a time may be indicative of theft.
Thus, retailers may benefit from techniques for detecting such
theft while at the same time presenting the merchandise in a way
that encourages a consumer to purchase the item. Retailers may
further benefit from techniques for monitoring inventory of items
of merchandise.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards
modular sweep detectors, systems, and methods for securing items of
merchandise from theft. In one example, a modular sweep detector
includes a housing configured to engage a pusher of a pusher device
and a sensor configured to engage a biasing member of the pusher
device. The biasing member is configured to be biased in response
to movement of the pusher. The sensor is configured to detect
movement of the pusher for determining if a predetermined number of
items of merchandise have been removed from the pusher device.
[0005] In one embodiment, a system for monitoring a pusher device
in a retail environment is provided. The system includes a modular
sweep detector comprising a housing configured to engage a pusher
of the pusher device and a sensor configured to engage a biasing
member of the pusher device. The biasing member is configured to be
biased in response to movement of the pusher. The system also
includes a monitoring device comprising an alarm for generating an
alarm signal, wherein the monitoring device is configured to
wirelessly communicate with the modular sweep detector. Moreover,
the monitoring device is configured to determine if a predetermined
number of items of merchandise have been removed from the pusher
device based on a signal provided by the sensor. The monitoring
device is configured to generate an alarm signal if a predetermined
number of items of merchandise have been removed from the pusher
device.
[0006] In another embodiment, a system for monitoring a pusher
device in a retail environment is provided. The system includes a
pusher device comprising a pusher and a biasing member. The system
further includes a modular sweep detector comprising a housing
configured to engage a pusher of the pusher device and a sensor
configured to engage a biasing member of the pusher device. The
biasing member is configured to be biased in response to movement
of the pusher. The modular sweep detector also includes a
monitoring device comprising an alarm for generating an alarm
signal, wherein the monitoring device is configured to wirelessly
communicate with the modular sweep detector. The monitoring device
is configured to determine if a predetermined number of items of
merchandise have been removed from the pusher device, and the
monitoring device is configured to generate an alarm signal if a
predetermined number of items of merchandise have been removed from
the pusher device.
[0007] In one embodiment, a method for monitoring a pusher device
in a retail environment is provided. The method includes wirelessly
communicating with a modular sweep detector, the modular sweep
detector configured to engage a pusher of the pusher device and a
sensor configured to engage a biasing member of the pusher device.
The method also includes determining if a predetermined number of
items of merchandise have been removed from the pusher device based
on a signal provided by the sensor. Moreover, the method includes
generating an alarm signal if a predetermined number of items of
merchandise have been removed from the pusher device.
[0008] In one embodiment, a modular sweep detector for monitoring a
pusher device in a retail environment is provided. The modular
sweep detector comprises a housing configured to be coupled to a
pusher of the pusher device and a sensor configured to be coupled
to a biasing member of the pusher device, the biasing member
configured to be biased in response to movement of the pusher. The
sensor is configured to detect movement of the pusher for
determining if a predetermined number of items of merchandise have
been removed from the pusher device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for securing items of
merchandise from theft and/or monitoring items of merchandise
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a modular sweep detector according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a monitoring device according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a pusher device according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a pusher and a biasing member
shown in FIG. 4.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates the biasing member shown in FIG. 5 in a
partially unwound position.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a modular sweep detector having a sensor
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates the housing of the modular sweep detector
shown in FIG. 7 coupled to the pusher device shown in FIG. 4.
[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates the sensor shown in FIG. 7 coupled to the
pusher device shown in FIG. 4.
[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates the sensor shown in FIG. 7 with a
biasing member shown in FIG. 4 in a partially unwound position
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0019] Referring to the accompanying figures wherein identical
reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the various
views, the illustrated embodiments of methods and systems according
to the present invention are capable of not only protecting an item
of merchandise against theft or unauthorized removal, but also for
monitoring merchandise in a retail environment. The item of
merchandise 12 may be any item, including any number of consumer
products. The items of merchandise 12 may be packaged (or boxed) or
non-packaged items. The system, indicated generally at 10, is
operable for securing items of merchandise 12 from theft and/or
monitoring items of merchandise (see, e.g., FIG. 1). Although
described in relation for use in a retail environment, the system
10 shown and described herein is suitable for monitoring and
securing an item of merchandise 12 in other settings, such as for
example, a residential or commercial environment, and is not
intended to be limited to use only as a system for protecting
against theft and/or unauthorized removal in a retail
environment.
[0020] According to one embodiment, the system 10 generally
comprises a pusher device 14 (see, e.g., FIG. 4), a modular sweep
detector 16 (see, e.g., FIG. 2), and a monitoring device 18 (see,
e.g., FIG. 3). In some embodiments, the pusher device 14 is a
conventional or off-the-shelf device, and the modular sweep
detector 18 is configured to be adapted to the pusher device.
Generally, the pusher device 14 includes a pusher 20 and a biasing
member 22 whereby the pusher is configured to bias the pusher
towards a particular position. The pusher device 14 may further
include a rail member 24 and a stop member 26 in some applications.
The pusher 20 is configured to abut one or more items of
merchandise and move along the rail member 24, while the biasing
member 22 is configured to bias the pusher towards the stop member
26 at an end of the rail member. The items of merchandise may thus
be disposed between the pusher 20 and the stop member 26 in a
relaxed state. As items of merchandise are removed, the pusher 20
is biased towards the stop member 26. The pusher device 14 may be
located on a shelf in a retail environment, and the pusher 20 may
be configured to move the items of merchandise under the force of
the biasing member 22 for presenting the items of merchandise to
consumers. For example, the biasing member 22 may be a clock
spring, power spring, flat spiral spring, or the like. Thus, as
merchandise is added to the pusher device 14, the clock spring is
configured to unwind (see, e.g., FIG. 6), and as merchandise is
removed to the pusher device, the clock spring is configured to
wind (see, e.g., FIG. 5). It is understood that the modular sweep
detector 16 may be configured for use with a variety of types of
pusher devices, such as the pusher device described above. For
instance, pusher devices may be utilized on shelves, display hooks,
and the like for presenting merchandise to a consumer. In the case
of a display hook, the pusher 20 may be configured to move along a
rod under the bias of biasing member 22, and the end of the rod may
include a bend or like stop member.
[0021] Advantageously, the modular sweep detector 16 is configured
to be removably attached to the pusher device 14 in a manner that
does not hinder the operation of the pusher device. In one example,
the modular sweep detector 16 comprises a housing 28 that is
configured to engage the pusher 20. For example, the housing 28 may
be snap fitted to the pusher and/or secured with a fastener (e.g.,
an adhesive). The housing 28 may be configured to enclose the
pusher 14. When attached to the pusher, the modular sweep detector
16 is configured to move with the pusher 20. The modular sweep
detector 16 may include a sensor 30. The sensor 30 may be enclosed
within the housing 28. The sensor 30 may be configured to detect
movement of the pusher 20. In some instances, the sensor 30 may be
configured to contact and directly engage the biasing member 22.
Thus, as the biasing member 22 moves, the sensor 30 may likewise be
configured to move and detect such movement. In one embodiment, the
sensor 30 is a rotary encoder and is configured to rotate as the
coil spring is wound and unwound (see, e.g., FIGS. 7-11). The
sensor 30 may be configured to generate a signal in response to
movement of the pusher 20 (e.g., an audible tone or visual
indicator). For example, movement in one direction may generate a
first signal while movement in an opposite direction may generate a
second signal. These signals may be indicative of removing or
loading the items of merchandise.
[0022] It is understood that other types of sensors 30 may be
employed. For example, FIG. 12 shows a sensor 30' including a
resilient member 32. The resilient member 32 may be configured to
engage the biasing member 22 and move as the pusher 20 moves for
generating one or more signals. The resilient member 32 may be
configured to at least partially conform to an outer surface of the
biasing member 22. For instance, the resilient member 32 may be
configured to engage with and conform to a portion of an outer
surface of the biasing member 22. Where a clock spring is utilized,
the resilient member 32 may be configured to conform to the
curvature of the clock spring. The resilient member 32 may be
formed of a material (e.g., a rubber or elastomeric material) that
facilitates friction with the biasing member 22 to maintain contact
therebetween in response to movement of the pusher 20. The sensor
30' may include a series of rotatable pulleys 34 whereby rotation
of one or more of the pulleys may be used to provide a signal as
discussed above. As such, the resilient member 32 may be a closed
loop in some cases and be configured to rotate each of the
rotatable pulleys 34 in response to movement of the resilient
member.
[0023] The modular sweep detector 16 and monitoring device 18 may
include wireless communications circuitry for communicating with
one another using any desired communications protocol (e.g.,
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, radiofrequency, etc.). The modular sweep detector
16 and monitoring device 18 may be located remotely from one
another. For example, the monitoring device 18 may be located at
some fixed location in proximity to one or more modular sweep
detectors 16. In some embodiments, the signal(s) generated by the
sensor 30, 30' may be configured to be transmitted to the
monitoring device 18. These signals may be processed by the
monitoring device 18 for determining whether a predetermined number
of items of merchandise have been added or removed. For example,
the signals may be used to determine a thickness of each item of
merchandise when loading the items of merchandise on the pusher
device 14. Thus, in a way, the monitoring device 18 may "learn" the
thickness of the items of merchandise when loaded on the pusher
device 14. As the sensor 30, 30' moves forwards and/or backwards as
items of merchandise are loaded, the sensor is configured to
generate one or more signals that can be used to determine a
thickness of the item of merchandise. The signals generated by the
sensor 30, 30' may be indicative of linear distance or full/partial
rotation of the sensor. Once the items of merchandise are loaded on
the pusher device 14, removal of a predetermined number of items
may be indicative of a theft or "sweep". For instance, removal of a
plurality of items of merchandise may be indicative of theft or
sweep, while removal of one item of merchandise is not indicative
of theft or sweep. The predetermined number of items of merchandise
that is indicative of theft may be input by authorized personnel at
the monitoring device 18 or may be preset by the manufacturer. The
modular sweep detector 16 and/or the monitoring device 18 may have
an alarm that is configured to generate an alarm signal (e.g., an
audible and/or visible signal) as a result of such removal. The
modular sweep detector 16 and/or the monitoring device 18 may have
a power source 36 for providing power for operating the wireless
communications circuitry, as well as any other components requiring
power. Furthermore, it is understood that the modular sweep
detector 16 and monitoring device 18 may communicate via wired
means if desired.
[0024] In some embodiments, a monitoring device 18 may be
configured to be paired with one or more modular sweep detectors
16. For example, a plurality of modular sweep detectors 16 may be
paired with one monitoring device 18. Thus, the monitoring device
18 may be configured to monitor a plurality of signals provided by
the modular sweep detectors 16 and to determine if a theft event
has occurred. In some instances, each modular sweep detector 16 may
be wirelessly paired to a monitoring device 18, such as, for
example, via Bluetooth communication. Pairing may include the
exchange of a particular code or identifier that associates a
modular sweep detector 16 with a monitoring device 18. An
authorized user may initiate communication between a modular sweep
detector 16 and a monitoring device 18 for pairing or unpairing
with one another, such as by pressing an actuator on the modular
sweep detector and/or the monitoring device. Therefore, any number
of modular sweep detectors 16 may be added to or removed from the
system 10, and likewise a plurality of monitoring devices 18 may be
employed.
[0025] In another embodiment, the system 10 may be utilized for
inventory control. For instance, the monitoring device 18 may be
configured to monitor a number of items of merchandise on a pusher
device 14 based on input from the sensor 30, 30' and alert
authorized personnel should the inventory fall below a
predetermined number. The monitoring device 18 may further be
configured to facilitate communication with one or more remote
devices for providing notification regarding inventory levels. Such
communication could occur, for instance, over a cloud network. In
other embodiments, the modular sweep detector 16 and/or the
monitoring device 18 may be configured to generate an alarm signal
should the inventory fall below a predetermined level.
[0026] The foregoing has described one or more embodiments of
systems and methods for securing item of merchandises from theft or
unauthorized removal. Although embodiments of the present invention
have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled
in the art that various modifications thereto can be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly,
the foregoing description is provided for the purpose of
illustration only, and not for the purpose of limitation.
* * * * *