Abstract: A system for monitoring shopping baskets (e.g., baskets on human-propelled carts, motorized carts, or hand-carried baskets) can include a computer vision unit that can image a surveillance region (e.g., an exit to a store), determine whether a basket is empty or loaded with merchandise, and assess a potential for theft of the merchandise. The computer vision unit can include a camera and an image processor programmed to execute a computer vision algorithm to identify shopping baskets and determine a load status of the basket. The computer vision algorithm can comprise a neural network. The system can identify an at least partially loaded shopping basket that is exiting the store, without indicia of having paid for the merchandise, and execute an anti-theft action, e.g., actuating an alarm, notifying store personnel, activating a store surveillance system, activating an anti-theft device associated with the basket (e.g., a locking shopping cart wheel), etc.

Abstract: An insect exterminating device which is characterized in a first embodiment by a handle having a handle base attached to a downwardly-extending probe frame fitted with a bracket and a spring for receiving an aerosol or pressurized fluid canister containing an insect treatment fluid. A probe projects from the probe frame and a spring-loaded activator button is provided on the handle base for activating the pressurized fluid canister valve to dispense the treatment fluid from the canister, through passages provided in the activator button, the handle base, the probe frame and the probe, into an insect bed. In a preferred embodiment the bracket is adjustable for accommodating pressurized fluid containers of various length. In a second embodiment the fluid canister is seated on a spring in a round frame and the treatment fluid is dispersed from the canister through a tube to the probe by pressing a spring-loaded activator button.