Abstract: The invention relates to a symmetrical sensor mounting bracket assembly comprising a first sensor mounting bracket and a second sensor mounting bracket combined together, one above the other in parallel orientation; at least one sensor attachment fixture configured to facilitate attachment of the bracket to a sensor mounting fixture and at least one mounting element configured to facilitate attachment of the bracket to a load bearing plate or a sensor support structure.

Abstract: A system detects a transaction outcome by obtaining video data associated with a transaction area and analyzing the video data to obtain at least one video transaction parameter concerning transactions associated with the transaction area. The transaction area can be a video count of items indicated in the video data as detected by an automated item detection algorithm applied to the video data. The system obtains at least one expected transaction parameter concerning an expected transaction that occurs in the transaction area, such as a scan count of items scanned at a point of sale terminal. The system automatically compares the video transaction parameter(s) to the expected transaction parameter(s) to identify a transaction outcome that may indicate fraudulent activity such as sweethearting in a retail environment.

Abstract: Transaction units of video data and transaction data captured from different checkout lanes are prioritized as a function of lane priority values of respective ones of the different checkout lanes from which the transaction units are acquired. Each of the checkout lanes has a different lane priority value. The individual transaction units are processed in the prioritized processing order to automatically detect irregular activities indicated by the transaction unit video and the transaction data of the processed individual transaction units.

Abstract: An indicating apparatus and system for multi-bay carousel bagging-rack assemblies utilized in retail and grocery stores, wherein the indicating apparatus comprises illumination means, audible means, tactile means, and/or combinations thereof, and having assigned indication means for each separate bagging-bay provided by the bagging-rack assembly. The indicating apparatus may be manually or automatically activated and deactivated according to the position or location of purchased items placed into bags housed in the bagging-bays, communicating to the patron and/or cashier that purchased items are ready for transfer from the point-of-sale assembly to the patron's cart.

Abstract: Under the present invention, item verification is automated and expedited. Specifically, items to be purchased can be scanned by the shopper using a barcode reader (e.g., a scanner), attached to or positioned near the checkout station. As items are scanned, they are identified based on their barcode, and added to an item list. Item verification can then be performed at checkout using imaging technology. Specifically, as items are scanned, an item verification unit will capture an appearance thereof (via a camera). Item verification software within the item verification unit will access a database that associates items with their images/appearances. The appearance will be compared for consistency to the identity as determined based on the scan. In general, the item verification unit is a separate unit from the cash register, but adapted to work in conjunction therewith (e.g., as a pluggable system, via wireless communication, etc.).

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a self-checkout terminal includes a reading unit and a light emitting unit. The reading unit reads commodity information from a commodity held over a reading position. The light emitting unit emits light in a first color to illuminate the reading position and emits light in a second color in response to the reading of the commodity information by the reading unit.

Abstract: A checkout stand with a barcode reader on a bagging end which reduces transaction times over conventional checkout stand designs. An example checkout stand includes a housing including a first and a second end, a conveyor for transporting items from the first end to the second end, a bagging station at the second end, a base portion between the conveyor and the bagging station, a first tower portion on the base portion, and a second tower portion on the base station separated from the first tower portion by a gap. The base portion and the first and second tower portions are for mounting a barcode reader for scanning the items before the items reach the bagging station.

Abstract: A novel and useful mechanism and method for processing transactions on a point of sale system comprising of a conveyor system which continuously moves when one ore more items or items are resting on the conveyor system, and a sensing system to capture the information necessary to identify the items on the conveyor. When all items are correctly recognized by the sensing devices, the customer is charged for the items and an invoice is printed. In the event all the items are not correctly recognized the captured information is forwarded to a remote location for automated recognition processing and manual identification, if necessary. Once all the items are successfully identified, the customer is charged for the purchase and an invoice is processed and sent to the customer.

Abstract: A diverter arm of a design that is configured to more effectively direct the movement of items along a retail checkstand, and checkout systems and methods incorporating such a diverter arm, are provided. In one embodiment, the diverter arm comprises an elongated block portion; an upper body portion positioned on top of the block portion substantially along its length, the upper body portion comprising at least a front face; and at least one bristle portion projecting downward from the bottom of the block portion substantially along its length.

Abstract: A method of processing a retail transaction includes processing a plurality of items for purchase using a point-of-sale terminal, which is part of a transaction approval system at a point of sale in a retail store. Processing the plurality of items includes using the point-of-sale terminal to determine associated price information for each item. Processing the plurality of items begins when information regarding an identifier of a first one of the plurality of items is entered into the point-of-sale terminal and ends when the information regarding the identifiers associated with all of the plurality of items has been entered into the point-of-sale terminal. The method further includes, before processing the plurality of items ends, electronically receiving an identification of a financial account to pay for the plurality of items, and after electronically receiving the identification of the financial account, determining a total cost of the plurality of items.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a self-checkout apparatus comprises a structural body including a first photographing unit which is provided with a first photographing window at the front part thereof. The first photographing unit has a photographing area in front of the first photographing window through which the first photographing unit photographs a computer readable symbol located within the photographing area. The apparatus also comprises a portable second photographing unit configured to photograph the computer readable symbol and a cradle, arranged at a position adjacent to one side of the structural body, on which the second photographing unit is placed.

Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for auditing in-store sales transactions when a digital receipt is issued. A receipt application server formulates a digital receipt from digital receipt data received from a POS system. The digital receipt is sent from the receipt application server to an auditor mobile device at the location of the POS system. A human auditor can view the digital receipt during an in-store audit. In some embodiments, one or both of the receipt application server and the auditor mobile device reorder receipt entries so that items having specified characteristics are presented more prominently on a display. For example, receipt entries can be re-ordered such that higher profit margin items, bulkier items, or more likely to be stolen items are presented more prominently. As such, a human auditor is more likely to expressly audit these types of items.

Abstract: A self-checkout system, particularly for retail areas of constrained floor space, has a small to zero footprint while being fully functional. In one form, the self-checkout comprises a unit mountable to a wall, pillar, or other support. In another form, the self-checkout has or is part of a columnar support. The self-checkout system has security in the form of video and weight verification. A visual and/or audio indicator provides indicia of modes of use of the self-checkout. The self-checkout further includes an interactive customer interface terminal, a scanner, and a scale. The self-checkout provides an open visual area that allows easy viewing by store personnel of transactions being performed on the self-checkout system.

Abstract: A method of sale including processing a plurality of purchases to be sold to a consumer, identifying a consumer financial account held by a financial institution, receiving authorization from the financial institution to enable payment for the plurality of purchases from the consumer financial account, and providing the consumer with an option to approve the payment from the consumer financial account. The option is provided during processing of the plurality of purchases. Transaction approval systems provide additional advantages.

Abstract: A checkstand for a retail store provides systems and methods for point of sale transactions in which a cashier scans items and places the scanned items directly into bags contained on a rotating carousel with multiple bag racks spaced around the carousel, and a deck above the carousel for holding items too large or bulky to be placed in bags. The systems and methods further provide a self service payment station.

Abstract: This invention provides a high-volume check stand with a front transport that has two belted input conveyors so that a customer can load one belt while the cashier is checking out products purchased by a second customer on the second belt. This two belt module has a flush rear end to which is attached a scanner that can be slid from one belt to the other. Preferably this check stand has an output module which has two belts and two rollers so that the check stand can use a bagger on each side for bagging the items, to speed checkout time. Embodiments of this check stand may have an output module that is a carousel or a turntable. It could also have any combination of one or two conveyor belts and one or two rollers on an incline for use in packing the products. A scanner is placed between the flush rear end of the front transport and the flush front end of the output module.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an automatic product price payment counter including an input device, an output device, and a control device. The input device inputs information about one or more products to be purchased by detecting a barcode attached thereon. The output device displays the information about the products and performs steps of paying for the price of the products. The control device performs comparison and determination on the information input from the input device with information stored in product information DataBase (DB). The input device includes a weight measurement unit including a first balance and a second balance configured to measure the weight of the products, and a cash slot and a card slot. The output device includes a cash change slot configured to refund change after the price of the products has been paid in cash.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for obtaining financial information with a handheld device. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a system for obtaining real time financial information utilizing a bar code or RF ID reader on a handheld device. A bar code or RF ID reader is used to obtain the product identity of a particular product in a retail environment. The product identity is correlated with the particular retailer's product price. This information can then be analyzed versus current financial budgets or recorded as part of a financial plan. In addition, real time financial advice and information can be given on the product including whether a competitor offers a lower price on a similar product, consumer reviews of the product, value rating, etc. The bar code or RF ID reader may be incorporated into any existing handheld device including a PDA, media player, cell phone, calculator, watch, or shopping device.

Abstract: A method of sale including processing a plurality of purchases to be sold to a consumer, identifying a consumer financial account held by a financial institution, receiving authorization from the financial institution to enable payment for the plurality of purchases from the consumer financial account, and providing the consumer with an option to approve the payment from the consumer financial account. The option is provided during processing of the plurality of purchases. Transaction approval systems provide additional advantages.

Abstract: A convertible checkout terminal includes a housing having a window and a data capture device for capturing through the window data associated with products to be checked out at the terminal, a customer interface supported by the housing for enabling a customer to interact with the terminal in a self-service mode of operation, a clerk interface supported by the housing for enabling a clerk to interact with the terminal in a full-service mode of operation, and a mode selector for selecting either the self-service mode in which the customer interface is operational, or the full-service mode in which the clerk interface is operational.

Abstract: A self-service system and method which uses shared components. The self-service checkout system includes a checkout platform including a plurality of checkout stations arranged together and associated with a plurality of checkout lanes, and checkout components including unshared components at each of the checkout stations and shared components available for use by customers at any of the checkout stations, and a computer for receiving indications of starts of overlapping transactions at two or more of the plurality of checkout stations, for establishing transaction records for the transactions, for determining that one of the checkout components must be used at a point in one of the transactions, for interrupting the one transaction, for determining that the one checkout component is a shared component, for determining that the one checkout component is in use by another of the transactions, and for resuming the one transaction after the one checkout component is no longer being used by the other transaction.

Abstract: A novel and useful mechanism and method for processing transactions on a point of sale system comprising of a conveyor system which continuously moves when one ore more items or items are resting on the conveyor system, and a sensing system to capture the information necessary to identify the items on the conveyor. When all items are correctly recognized by the sensing devices, the customer is charged for the items and an invoice is printed. In the event all the items are not correctly recognized the captured information is forwarded to a remote location for automated recognition processing and manual identification, if necessary. Once all the items are successfully identified, the customer is charged for the purchase and an invoice is processed and sent to the customer.

Abstract: A self-checkout system for processing an article with an security tag attached thereto includes a self-checkout station, a product code input device, a deactivation device and a prompting system to provide instructions to a user. The system can automatically prompt a user to pass an article within a deactivation region generated by the deactivation device to deactivate an anti-theft tag.

Abstract: A convertible checkout terminal includes a housing having a window and a data capture device for capturing through the window data associated with products to be checked out at the terminal, a customer interface supported by the housing for enabling a customer to interact with the terminal in a self-service mode of operation, a clerk interface supported by the housing for enabling a clerk to interact with the terminal in a full-service mode of operation, and a mode selector for selecting either the self-service mode in which the customer interface is operational, or the full-service mode in which the clerk interface is operational.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for sorting purchase items. A selection module selects a plurality of categories. In one embodiment, the selection module receives a category selection. In addition, the selection module may receive a criterion selection for the category selection and receive a modification for the criterion selection. The selection module may further modify the criterion of the selected category with the modification. An identification module identifies a purchase item. An association module associates a selected category of the plurality of categories with the purchase item. A sorter sorts the purchase item to a specified bin. The specified bin is associated with the selected category. In one embodiment, a bagger may bag one or more purchase items from a bin.

Abstract: A mobile terminal is provided. A scanner unit reads code information attached to a commodity. A RAM stores the code information read by the scanner unit as commodity-for-purchase information. The scanner unit, to confirm whether the commodity-for-purchase information stored in the RAM is correct, the scanner unit reads the code information of one part of the commodity-for-purchase. A CPU switches from reading for storage to reading for confirmation. It is determined whether information contained in the code information read by the scanner unit is stored in the RAM. A display displays a result of the determination.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic payment calculator unit, which enables a purchaser in a large shop to calculate a price of articles and pay for the price in person so that the shop may be operated without an accounting clerk.

Abstract: A random weight item transaction system include a scale with label RIFD tag functionality, service person RFID tag functionality and customer RFID tag functionality. A slicer in proximity to the scale may include service person and bulk food product RFID functionalities. The scale may make weigh transaction data available to a computerized checkout system via a communications link or via writing the information to the label RFID tag.

Abstract: An example integrated interface apparatus for a point-of-sale system, an example point-of-sale system including the integrated interface apparatus, an example method and a computer-readable storage medium for performing a point-of-sale transaction have been disclosed. The integrated interface apparatus includes a base member, a vertical arm member, a display device and a data input device. The base member is configured to be disposed on a counter. The vertical arm member is operatively connected to the base member. The vertical arm member includes a terminal attachment member and a side attachment member below the terminal attachment member. The display device is operatively connected to the terminal attachment member and the data input device is operatively connected to the side attachment member.

Abstract: Aspects of a self checkout method are described. The method includes utilizing an imaging scanner to image products being purchased; providing a bag rack with scales substantially adjacent the imaging scanner for holding a bag to receive imaged products; and utilizing a computer system to process data from the imaging scanner and the bag rack to ensure complete and secure product purchasing. The method also includes utilizing the computer system to process image data from the product imaging scanner to track movement of each imaged product relative to the bag rack and determine whether each imaged product is entering or exiting the bag.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a solution for providing item bagging advisements to individuals bagging purchased items during a check-out situation. The solution can include a self-checkout system and/or a human assisted checkout system capable of providing bagging assistance. A bagged item can be detected based on information such as weight, barcode data, and the like. Based on a set of rules for preferred item grouping, items can be determined to be appropriately bagged or to be in conflict with another item. Item bagging assistance can include, but is not limited to, item conflict warning, item compatibility confirmation, and assistance based on item categorization. Visual and aural confirmation and/or warning notifications can be presented to a user based on item compatibility or incompatibility.

Abstract: Method and system of using radio frequency identification tags. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods comprising receiving an item for purchase, reading RFID tag on the item to identify the item at checkout, and writing data to the RFID tag indicative of parameters associated with the purchaser.

Abstract: This invention provides a high-volume check stand with a front transport that has two belted input conveyors so that a customer can load one belt while the cashier is checking out products purchased by a second customer on the second belt. This two belt module has a flush rear end to which is attached a scanner that can be slid from one belt to the other. Preferably this check stand has an output module which has two belts and two rollers so that the check stand can use a bagger on each side for bagging the items, to speed checkout time. Embodiments of this check stand may have an output module that is a carousel or a turntable. It could also have any combination of one or two conveyor belts and one or two rollers on an incline for use in packing the products. A scanner is placed between the flush rear end of the front transport and the flush front end of the output module.

Abstract: A system for enabling reliable verification of items being purchased using a self checkout system. The self checkout system is equipped with a verification mark dispenser and verification mark detectors that respectively dispenses a mark on an item as the item is being scanned for purchasing and then verifies, by detecting the mark on the item, that the item being bagged (or passed through the tunnel) is the same item that was scanned. When a customer scans an item for purchase, and if purchase transaction is successful, a mark (made of a non-reactive but detectable material or ink) is placed on the exterior packaging of the item. When the item is placed in the tunnel, the detector, sensitive to the activation of the specific marking and located at or in the tunnel, detects the marking on the item. If the activated marking is not detected by the detector, an alert condition is triggered.

Abstract: A method for detecting a non-scan at a retail checkout station includes detecting the passing of an item across a scanner device of a retail checkout station, obtaining an image of the item passing across the scanner, detecting a scan of an item passing across the scanner to establish a scanned item, and establishing a register associated with the scanned item. A scan occurs if the image of the item passing across the scanner substantially matches the register associated with the scanned item. Conversely, a non-scan is triggered when the image of the item passing across the scanner does not match the register associated with the scanned item.

Abstract: A system for improving the efficiency of drive-through delivery systems is provided. The system can provide complete error tracking and feedback; however, partial or no error tracking and/or feedback can be provided if desired. Errors in order fulfillment can be reduced. Detailed information on product weight and delivery timing can be provided. By analyzing the weight distributions of each food item or any other suitable measurements, production quality and consistency may be monitored. By analyzing the delivery times for each food item type or any other suitable measurements, production efficiency and restaurant work flow may be measured.

Abstract: A method of operating a self-service checkout terminal located in a checkout area of a retail store includes the step of generating a payment-tendered control signal when a user of the self-service checkout terminal tenders payment for a number of items for purchase. The method also includes the step of detecting movement of the user on a movement detection floor mat and generating a walk-away control signal if the user exits the checkout area of the retail store. Moreover, the method includes the step of generating a personnel-request control signal if the walk-away control signal is generated prior to generation of the payment-tendered control signal. A self-service checkout terminal is also disclosed.

Abstract: In order to provide scales, comprising a weighed-product receiving region and a terminal positioned at a vertical spacing from the weighed-product receiving region, that are easy to operate, it is proposed that at least one camera with a field of view towards the weighed-product receiving region is disposed on the terminal.

Abstract: A system and method of verifying item placement on a security scale. The system includes a computer for receiving incremental weight signals from a security weight scale, wherein some of the incremental weight signals are unrelated to placement of items on the security weight scale, and an item detector for detecting movement of the item from a scanner following scanning of the item and for generating an item detection signal, wherein the computer ignores the incremental weight signal unless it receives the item detection signal within a predetermined time period preceding receipt of the incremental weight signal.

Abstract: A specific-item-information storing unit stores information on a specific item that can be contained in one container together with other item. A specific-item judging unit judges, when the registration for the purchased-item is received, whether the purchased-item is a specific item based on the information stored. A reception control unit controls, when the specific-item judging unit judges that the purchased-item is a specific item, a self-scanning system to continue to receive a registration for other purchased-item and to perform a weight determination according to an instruction for completing the registration from a customer.

Abstract: A retail terminal includes a voice generating device. The retail terminal also includes a processing unit electrically coupled to the voice generating device. Moreover, the retail terminal further includes a memory device electrically coupled to the processing unit.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a self-checkout system. The self-checkout system includes a processor and a first device coupled to the processor, where the first device identifies an item. The self-checkout system also includes a first receptacle coupled to the first device. The first receptacle receives the item after being identified by the first device. The self-checkout system also includes a second device coupled to the first receptacle. The second device identifies the item after being received by the first receptacle, and the processor verifies if the item identified by the second device is the same item identified by the first device. As a result, the checkout process is reliable and secure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a checkout device that includes a purchasable item having an RFID tag affixed thereto and a scanner for detecting the RFID tag. A dispenser proximate to the scanner dispenses a point of purchase product upon selection by a user of the checkout device. A controller in operative communication with the scanner and the dispenser subsequently calculates the cost of the purchase item and the point of purchase product. A display device in operative communication with the controller displays the cost to the person using the checkout device.

Abstract: A self-checkout system includes a graphical user interface for self-checkout of non-bar-coded items. The interface displayes a predetermined image corresponding to a non-bar-coded item, and means for the user to select the image. A product look up (PLU) entry device provides a PLU corresponding to the item selected by the user and a processing unit uses the selected PLU to retrieve price information from a database. The processing unit may also maintain a list of most frequently sold items and the image of at least on item on the list is provided on the display screen. The processing unit may update the display screen when the list of most requently sold items changes. Images of other non-bar-coded items can also be displayed.

Abstract: A merchandise sales processing apparatus communicates with a money changer machine for automatically dispensing cash, acquires a sales figure in a transaction, acquires a differential amount in the money changer occurred in the transaction from the money changer, decides if the acquired sales figure matches the acquired price of the fluctuating currency, and acquires a transaction date and time on the transaction if the sales figure does not match the differential amount, and stores the transaction date and time in the memory.

Abstract: A system, such as a checkout station, for positively identifying items includes a reader that reads coded information affixed to an item. The system further includes a capture module, such as a camera. The capture module captures a visual characteristic of the item to be identified, such as the color, size, shape, or texture of the item. The visual characteristic of the item is compared with visual characteristics of candidate items stored within a database. If multiple items within the database are associated with the item to be identified, the images of the candidate items may be displayed to a user. The user may then select the candidate item that most resembles the item to be identified. The coded information of the item being identified is then compared with coded information of the selected item within the database. If the coded information of both items corresponds, the item is positively identified and is accepted for purchase by a consumer.

Abstract: A system tracks items in the checkout area of a self-checkout terminal to reduce the likelihood of fraud in item substitution. The system includes a plurality of weight sensors operatively coupled to a checkout area for sensing a distributed weight of an item placed in a checkout area; and an item locator coupled to the plurality of weight sensors for determining a location for the item from the distributed weight as sensed by the sensors. The item locator identifies a location for an item from the weight differentials sensed at the weight sensors in response to movement of an item within the checkout area. The weight distribution and location data may be correlated to the item identifier for a scanned item so the items in the checkout area may be tracked. A security application program associated with the self-checkout terminal may be coupled to the system of the present invention to identify items placed on the checkout area by location as well as weight.

Abstract: A method of providing security during operation of a self-service checkout terminal includes the step of creating a transaction table which includes a plurality of records corresponding respectively to a plurality of items entered into the checkout terminal during a checkout procedure. The method also includes the step of analyzing the plurality of records. The method further includes the step of generating a characteristic value in response to the analyzing step. Moreover, the method includes the step of comparing the characteristic value to a characteristic trigger point and generating a characteristic control signal in response thereto.

Abstract: A method of monitoring item shuffling in a post-scan area of a self-service checkout terminal having a post-scan shelf, a bagwell with a grocery container positioned therein, and a weight scale positioned so as to detect weight of items positioned both on the post-scan shelf and in the grocery container, includes the step of detecting removal of a first number of items from the post-scan shelf with the weight scale and generating a first weight decrease value in response thereto which corresponds to the weight of the first number of items. The method also includes the step of detecting placement of a second number of items into the grocery container with the weight scale and generating a first weight increase value in response thereto which corresponds to the weight of the second number of items.

Abstract: A method of operating a retail terminal having a display monitor includes the step of generating an item-entered control signal when an item for purchase of a customer is entered into the retail terminal by retail personnel. The method also includes the step of retrieving retail history information associated with the customer from a customer profile database. The method further includes the step of displaying item information associated with the item for purchase on a first portion of the display monitor in response to generation of the item-entered control signal. Moreover, the method includes the step of displaying a customer-specific retail message based on the retail history information on a second portion of the display monitor. The step of displaying the customer-specific retail message is performed contemporaneously with the step of displaying the item information associated with the item for purchase. A retail terminal is also disclosed.