Abstract: A shipping and tracking system has a number of tracking stations that are geographically distributed. The tracking stations gather information from shipping items processed by the shipping and tracking system. The shipping and tracking system provides an enhanced level of security for selected shipping items. The enhanced level of security for the selected shipping items is based at least on the information gathered at the tracking stations. The enhanced security is provided in such a way that personnel of the shipping and delivery system cannot physically discern whether or not a shipping item is being shipped with enhanced security.

Abstract: A signal emitting retail device is provided. The signal emitting retail device includes a sensor and an emitter. The emitter is configured to emit a signal when the sensor senses removal of merchandise from a merchandise display structure. The sensor is also configured to sense potential theft conditions. The emitter is configured to emit a signal indicative of potential theft conditions when such conditions are sensed by the sensor.

Abstract: In accordance with at least some embodiments, a process for transmitting a signal is presented. The process may be implemented to detect an occurrence of a predetermined event associated with an object and in response to detecting the occurrence of the predetermined event, transmit a signal relating to a content associated with the object.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for holding articles, such as keys, which is attachable to a person's clothing, handbag or a purse, and wherein a physical or electronic tether is used to allow the user to use the articles stored thereupon without removing them from the holder or from their clothing, handbag, purse, briefcase or other hand carried item. The tension on the tether is manageable by the use of a tension management system, so that the tension of the tether will not damage the article or the mechanism that the article is used with and the article is tracked by use of the tether so that the user does not lose the article. Infrared, radio frequency, and transponder and polling versions of the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: An alarm sounding retail display system is provided. The alarm sounding retail display system is operable to provide an audible tone upon the movement of retail merchandise carried within the retail display system. The audible provides an indication of enhanced security and can alert store employees in proximity to the retail display system that merchandise has been added to or removed from the retail display system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for indicating a swept pocket in a mail processing system. A mail processing system includes a plurality of pockets configured to receive and retain processed mail until the processed mail is removed by a user, and a movable paddle disposed in each pocket to retain the processed mail in the respective pocket. The user moves the paddle in order to remove processed mail from the respective pocket. The mail processing system includes a sensor connected to detect when the paddle in one of the plurality of pockets has been moved by the user, and an indicator associated with each pocket and connected to activate when the sensor detects that the paddle in the associated pocket has been moved by the user.

Abstract: An electronic article surveillance (EAS) system comprising a combined plurality of surveillance systems that operate independent of and autonomous from each other and are physically located within pedestal systems having at least a first EAS system for detecting a magnetic EAS tag (which are immune to foil lined bags and other Faraday Shields) and magnetic detachers, a second EAS system for detecting Faraday shields, a third EAS for detecting acousto-magnetic EAS tags, and an anti-EAS jamming alarm mechanism. The EAS system of the present invention further includes a counter that counts the number of individuals entering into and exiting out of a secured area, and validate if an alarm is legitimate.

Abstract: A system and method for displaying merchandise item is presented. A merchandise display system includes a display cabinet, an alarm unit and a key extension device. The display cabinet can display several different kinds of merchandise items. The alarm unit generates an alarm when one of the merchandise items is removed from a predetermined distance from the display cabinet. The key extension device can be mounted on the display cabinet away from the alarm unit to allow an electronic key to be inserted into the key extension devise to control the alarm unit.

Abstract: A retail security display system includes an onboard power supply and alarm system that sounds in the event a protected device is tampered with or removed from the display system. The retail security display system also includes a central communication module that manages information from a plurality of display devices and tracks the location of a protected device if it is removed from the display device.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first power supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items can be charged at the display on a multiplexed basis.

Abstract: A security system includes a sensor attached to a merchandise item, a slave unit attached to a merchandise rack and connected to one or a plurality of sensors via a wire, and a master unit that monitors theft of the merchandise item by wirelessly receiving a signal using a first frequency band from one or a plurality of slave units.

Abstract: This is an all-in-one radio frequency identification system for goods inventory and sale management, comprising at least one tag, an antenna unit and a multi-port reader comprising a micro control unit, a reader and a multiplexer. The tag is attached on each article. The antenna unit is RF coupled to the tag. The multiplexer built-in the multi-port reader is electrically coupled to the antenna unit. The reader built-in the multi-port reader is capable of transmitting RF signals, accessing commands and receiving tag signals from the multiplexer. The micro control unit is electrically coupled to the multiplexer and the reader to receive and process the reading signal and provide inventory and sale management functions and applications. Therefore, the all-in-one radio frequency identification system provides not only inventory and anti-theft functions but also information for consumer behavior research, and capable of doing stand alone operations.

Abstract: Some embodiments of a product display apparatus may provide consumers with access to samples of portable electronic devices while maintaining the security of the sample devices. The display apparatus can present the sample devices in a manner that encourages consumers to view and operate the user interface of the samples even though each sample unit cannot be physically moved from the display apparatus.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the surveillance conducted by lost or stolen electronic devices dependent upon the location of such electronic devices is provided. A data repository contains data that specifies, for each of a plurality of geographic regions (e.g. legal jurisdictions), a set of surveillance methods that are permissible in the respective region. At least some of the geographic regions have different respective sets of permissible surveillance methods than others. A computer system is operable to communicate with the devices over a computer network, and programmed to use received information regarding a location of a potentially lost or stolen device, in combination with the data in the computer data repository, to cause the potentially lost or stolen device to initiate surveillance according to the set of permissible surveillance methods (and/or other actions) corresponding to the location.

Abstract: Embodiments herein include novel ways of alerting store personnel when various activities, events, conditions, etc., occur at the checkout in retail establishments. For example, in accordance with one embodiment, the alerting can take place in substantially real-time, when the event occurs, allowing personnel to take appropriate measures, corrective or otherwise, to deal with the detected event. Examples of such events may include situations such as when a person of interest is detected as shopping at the store, when a cashier has missed scanning an item at the checkout, or to alert store personnel if a non-empty shopping cart has exited the store without payment (a.k.a., a cart push-out). Although the discussion below uses a grocery store as an example retail environment, embodiments herein can be used in any type of retail environment.

Abstract: Security systems and methods configured for use with an item of merchandise for retail display include a housing, at least one sensor carried by the housing and at least one output device carried by the housing. The security system further includes a controller carried by the housing and operably coupled to the sensor and to the output device. The controller is operable to determine a distance traveled by the item of merchandise from a retail display “home” position based upon a sensor input from the sensor, and to activate the output device based upon the distance traveled by the item of merchandise exceeding a threshold distance. The controller may utilize the at least one sensor in conjunction with an inertial navigation system (INS) and motion processing algorithms or techniques to determine the distance traveled by the item of merchandise from the retail display “home” position.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power.

Abstract: A component (10) of a device, such as a keypad mechanism (10) of a cash dispenser, is provided with a mechanism for detecting separation of the component from another part (16) of the device, for example a front panel (16) of the cash dispenser. The mechanism includes a member (64) moveable between first and second positions, and biasing means (34) to bias the member resiliently in the first position. In use, the member (64) is forced into the second position by contact with the part (16). If the component (10) and the part (16) are separated, the member (64) moves from the second position to the first position. The mechanism also includes a signal means to provide a warning signal when the member (64) moves to the first position. A tube (50) of ceramic material or other hard material is provided to resist ingress of a drill bit to the member (64).

Abstract: An apparatus for recognizing an entry/exit direction of a moving body includes a first moving body detection sensor; a second moving body detection sensor; and a control means connected to the first and second moving body detection sensors by wire/wireless to recognize as an entry of a moving body only when, after moving body detection signals of the first and second moving body detection sensors are received simultaneously or together for a first predetermined time, the moving body detection signal of the second moving body detection sensor is not lastly received, and to recognize as an exit of a moving body only when, after moving body detection signals of the first and second moving body detection sensors are received simultaneously or together for a first predetermined time, the moving body detection signal of the first moving body detection sensor is not lastly received.

Abstract: A shipping and tracking system has a number of tracking stations that are geographically distributed. The tracking stations gather information from shipping items processed by the shipping and tracking system. The shipping and tracking system provides an enhanced level of security for selected shipping items. The enhanced level of security for the selected shipping items is based at least on the information gathered at the tracking stations. The enhanced security is provided in such a way that personnel of the shipping and delivery system cannot physically discern whether or not a shipping item is being shipped with enhanced security.

Abstract: A security system includes a sensor attached to a merchandise item, a slave unit attached to a merchandise rack and connected to one or a plurality of sensors via a wire, and a master unit that monitors theft of the merchandise item by wirelessly receiving a signal using a first frequency band from one or a plurality of slave units.

Abstract: A merchandise display stand for displaying an item of merchandise defines an angled exit path for a security cable attached to the merchandise. The display stand includes a base configured for attachment to a support surface and an upright extending from the base. The security cable extends from the base through an internal passageway defined by the upright to the merchandise. The upright has an arcuate or an angled shape relative to the support surface and the angled exit path forms an acute angle with a central axis between about fifteen and about seventy-five degrees. A sensor housing may be disposed between an upper end of the security cable and the merchandise and configured for attachment to the merchandise. A first displacement sensor may be provided for indicating whether the base is separated from the support surface and a second displacement sensor may be provided for indicating whether the merchandise is separated from the sensor housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for protecting articles (2), especially displayed goods, from theft. Said device comprises a sensor, connected to a control and alarm device (4) for triggering an alarm when the sensor (3) responds, and to be secured to the article (2) to be protected. The device (1) also comprises a device for detecting if a person gets closer to the displayed article (2) or when the article (2) is removed but not taken. For this purpose, a sensor (7) responds when a person gets closer or when the article (2) is removed and is control-connected to the control and alarm device (4). The control and alarm device (4) is connected to a product information device (13) for presenting the displayed article (2).

Abstract: A system and method for displaying merchandise item is presented. A disposable merchandise display includes a disposable display stand, an alarm unit and tethers. The disposable display stand is interchangeable with other disposable display stands and the alarm unit. The disposable display stand further includes one or more display areas for displaying merchandise items and allowing for the handling of the merchandise times. The alarm unit is configured to be placed inside the disposable display stand. Each of the tethers can be connected between the alarm unit and a corresponding merchandise item. The alarm unit is configured to generate an alarm when a merchandise item displayed at the merchandise display is moved away from the disposable merchandise display or a tether is cut.

Abstract: A system and method for displaying merchandise item is presented. A merchandise display system includes a display cabinet, an alarm unit and a key extension device. The display cabinet can display several different kinds of merchandise items. The alarm unit generates an alarm when one of the merchandise items is removed from a predetermined distance from the display cabinet. The key extension device can be mounted on the display cabinet away from the alarm unit to allow an electronic key to be inserted into the key extension devise to control the alarm unit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method comprising the steps of: a first network device (DEVI) outputting content (CONT), the first network device (DEVI) retrieving an address (ADDR2) of a second network device (DEV2) from a third device (DEV3), and the first network device (DEVI) transmitting said content (CONT), which was output at the time of retrieving said address (ADDR2), to said second network device (DEV2). Furthermore, the invention relates to a network device (DEVI), comprising: means for outputting content (CONT), means for retrieving an address (ADDR2) of a second network device (DEV2) from a third device (DEV3), and means for transmitting said content (CONT), which was output at the time of retrieving said address (ADDR2), to said second network device (DEV2).

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis.

Abstract: A security device for preventing the theft of merchandise or other articles that provides for a closed loop system that is self-shunting without the need for removable shunt plugs. The preferred device comprises a plurality of jacks attached to a circuit board for receiving connector plug assemblies that are operatively connected to the articles through sensors. When the connector plug assemblies are not within a jack, a jack contact will engage a nail contact to close a circuit, thereby shunting the jack. Insertion of the connector plug assembly will deflect the jack contact away from the nail contact and create a second closed loop indicating that the jack is in use, and which will monitor and warn of any tampering with the sensor on the article.

Abstract: The invention disclosed here is a display system for managing power and security for a plurality of hand-held electronic devices sold to consumers in a retail location. The display includes features that allow power to be supplied to individual devices without hard wiring or multi-conductor retractor cables. The display also allows for individual security alarms to be triggered when a theft occurs. Security alarm conditions are triggered via wireless signals.

Abstract: The invention disclosed here is a display system for managing power and security for a plurality of hand-held electronic devices sold to consumers in a retail location. The display includes features that allow power to be supplied to individual devices and security sensors without continuous hard wiring or multi-conductor retractor cables. The display also allows for individual security alarms to be triggered when a theft occurs. Security alarm conditions are preferably triggered via wireless signals.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with protecting merchandise items are presented. A method of protecting merchandise items includes displaying a plurality of merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. Each merchandise item is connected to the consumer display with a corresponding tether. A first alarm is generated when one of the consumer items is removed from one of the corresponding tethers. A second alarm is generated that is different than the first alarm when one of the tethers is severed.

Abstract: An electronic article surveillance (EAS) system comprising a combined plurality of surveillance systems that operate independent of and autonomous from each other and are physically located within pedestal systems having at least a first EAS system for detecting a magnetic EAS tag (which are immune to foil lined bags and other Faraday Shields) and magnetic detachers, a second EAS system for detecting Faraday shields, a third EAS for detecting acousto-magnetic EAS tags, and an anti-EAS jamming alarm mechanism. The EAS system of the present invention further includes a counter that counts the number of individuals entering into and exiting out of a secured area, and validate if an alarm is legitimate.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and a method of controlling the RFID reader are provided. The RFID reader includes a link frequency calculator which calculates a link frequency by using a signal transmitted from a tag and a sampling signal; a first decoder which converts the signal transmitted from the tag into a first signal or a second signal having a different value from the first signal; a decoding controller which outputs a mode signal representing a format used to decode the signal converted in the first decoder; and a second decoder which decodes the converted signal according to the mode signal.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for processing assets in a lockable container are disclosed. A decoupler receives information from the container or the asset in the container. The container may be associated with a security status, and the item may be associated with a processing status. The decoupler may move the container along a processing path in a sequence based on the security status of the container and/or the processing status of the asset. The decoupler may also lock or unlock the container while moving the container along the processing path. At least a portion of the processing path may be exposed to a magnetic field, which may lock or unlock the container and/o activate or deactivate a security tag associated with the container or the item. The decoupler may also write or read information to or from an RFID tag associated with the container and/or the asset. This information may be used in conjunction with benefit denial, audit, loss prevention, transaction management, and other similar systems.

Abstract: A merchandise display security system for displaying and protecting an item of merchandise having a movable or removable cover includes a sensor configured to be attached to the cover. The sensor may include a magnet assembly that produces a magnetic field defining a predetermined minimum strength when the sensor is attached to the cover and the cover is closed on the item of merchandise. A transducer detects the presence of the magnetic field, or alternatively, changes in the strength of the magnetic field and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field, for example an output voltage. The transducer communicates the electrical signal to electronics that activate an alarm if the strength of the magnetic field is less than a predetermined minimum strength or greater than a predetermined maximum strength.

Abstract: An alarm sounding retail display system is provided. The alarm sounding retail display system is operable to provide an audible tone upon the movement of retail merchandise carried within the retail display system. The audible provides an indication of enhanced security and can alert store employees in proximity to the retail display system that merchandise has been added to or removed from the retail display system.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.

Abstract: A system for detecting electronic article surveillance marker shielding includes electronic article surveillance (“EAS”), metal detection and video analysis subsystems communicatively coupled to a system controller. The EAS subsystem detects EAS markers within a detection zone. The metal detection subsystem detects metallic objects within the detection zone. The video analysis subsystem captures a video image of the metallic object. The system controller determines a probable classification for the metallic object and calculates a confidence weight for the probable classification. If the metallic object is identified as EAS marker shielding according to the probable classification and the corresponding confidence weight, an alert is generated.

Abstract: Product availability can be determined using radio frequency identification (RFID) by determining whether a RFID tag is detectable by a RFID reader and setting a product availability condition, where the RFID tag is not attached to the product, and where distance between the RFID tag and the RFID reader changes as quantity of the product changes. A system for determining availability of products using RFID can comprise a product display unit, a RFID reader, a RFID tag associated with the product display unit, and a computing device configured to set product availability conditions. In the system, distance between the RFID tag and the RFID reader changes as quantity of the product changes.

Abstract: A merchandise display stand for displaying an item of merchandise defines an angled exit path for a security cable attached to the merchandise. The display stand includes a base configured for attachment to a support surface and an upright extending from the base. The security cable extends from the base through an internal passageway defined by the upright to the merchandise. The upright has an arcuate or an angled shape relative to the support surface and the angled exit path forms an acute angle with a central axis between about fifteen and about seventy-five degrees. A sensor housing may be disposed between an upper end of the security cable and the merchandise and configured for attachment to the merchandise. A first displacement sensor may be provided for indicating whether the base is separated from the support surface and a second displacement sensor may be provided for indicating whether the merchandise is separated from the sensor housing.

Abstract: Methods and other embodiments associated with a display stand with interchangeable head devices are presented. In one embodiment, a display assembly comprises a base, an interchangeable head device, a mounting member, a tether, and a sensor. The interchangeable head device is mounted to the base. The interchangeable head device is one of a plurality of different base head devices configured to be interchangeably mounted to the base. The mounting member is adapted for mounting thereon a display item and is movable between a mounted position in contact with one of the base head devices mounted to the base. The mounting can be removed from the base to facilitate viewing and handling of the display item. The tether is attached to the mounting member. The sensor transmits a signal to an alarm system when the mounting member is removed from the base head device mounted to the base.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixture (1) for at least one object, especially merchandise or packagings for merchandise. According to the invention, a means (21) for automatically determining the frequency with which said at least one object is removed from and/out of the fixture (1) and a control means (23) for transmitting at least one signal in accordance with the determined frequency of removal are provided.

Abstract: A combination non-programmable and programmable key for a security device of the type used to display items of merchandise includes a non-programmable portion for cooperating with a mechanical lock of the security device and a programmable portion for cooperating with a sensor of the security device that is operatively coupled to an alarm for indicating a security threat to the security device or to an item of merchandise displayed on the security device. The non-programmable portion includes a side assembly having a magnet that cooperates with a magnetically attractable locking pin to unlock the mechanical lock of the security device. The programmable portion emits an energy signal that cooperates with the sensor of the security device to disarm the alarm and thereby permit the security device to be removed or an item of merchandise to be removed without the alarm indicating a security threat.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for holding articles, such as keys, which is attachable to a person's clothing, handbag or a purse, and wherein a physical or electronic tether is used to allow the user to use the articles stored thereupon without removing them from the holder or from their clothing, handbag, purse, briefcase or other hand carried item. The tension on the tether is manageable by the use of a tension management system, so that the tension of the tether will not damage the article or the mechanism that the article is used with and the article is tracked by use of the tether so that the user does not lose the article. Infrared, radio frequency, and transponder and polling versions of the invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: A wireless communication device includes a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, a transceiver, and a controller. The NFC interface receives data related to multimedia content from an external NFC tag responsive to establishing an NFC link with the NFC tag. Based on the received data, the controller establishes a communication link with a multimedia server via a wireless communication network, and controls the multimedia server to download information associated with the multimedia content to a user-specified destination device.

Abstract: A display assembly for automatically orienting a display item includes a base and a mounting member for mounting thereon the display item. The mounting member is removably mounted on the base to allow handling of the display item when removed and when mounted automatically moves from an unaligned orientation to an aligned display orientation. One alignment mechanism is magnetically operable and preferably includes first and second magnets respectively mounted on the base and mounting member wherein north and south poles of the first magnet align respectively with south and north poles of the second magnet to align the mounting member in the display orientation. Another alignment mechanism includes at least one camming surface for facilitating alignment of the mounting member and preferably camming surfaces respectively on the base and the mounting member which engage one another to facilitate to alignment.

Abstract: A system for displaying an item includes a display shelf having an aperture through it and a thin tether having a first end and a second end that extends through the aperture. The first end of the tether is secured to a mount above a top side of said display shelf and the second end of said tether is secured adjacent to a bottom side of the displays shelf. The first end of the tether has a mount for connection of tether to the item, above the shelf. The system further includes a coiled cable coiled around the tether extending through the aperture. The coiled cable provides an electrical path to the item. The coiled cable has a first end and a second end. The first end is secured adjacent to the mount and the second end securely terminates below the bottom unexposed side of said display shelf.

Abstract: An anti-theft tag deterring theft of a ring is provided. The anti-theft tag includes an elongated housing for accommodating an EAS marker, a product support member that locks into the housing and which supports the ring, and a flexible, tear resistant strap for securing the ring to the support member, the strap being disposed at least partially within the housing during use. In one embodiment, the support member includes an arcuate seat portion for supporting a circular shank portion of the ring, and a locking member that locks into a corresponding cavity in the housing. In use, the tear resistant strap extends over the ring shank, and the strap ends are received within the cavity of the housing to protect the strap from unauthorized removal by a consumer.

Abstract: A security system and display module therefore protects an item of merchandise mounted on the display module in a retail environment. The item of merchandise is electrically and mechanically connected to a sensor which is removably mounted on the display module by a first power cord. A second power cord connects the display module to the sensor and a third power cord connects the display module to a source of electricity for supplying electric power to the sensor through the display module and then to the displayed item for maintaining the charge on a battery of the displayed item. The display module contains an alarm unit having an audible alarm which is actuated if the integrity of either of the first or second power cords is compromised. A plunger switch and LED may be contained in the sensor and in a base of the display module and connected to the internal alarm to provide additional security for the protected item of merchandise.