WO2021163783A1

WO2021163783A1 - System, device and method for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection

Info

Publication number: WO2021163783A1
Application number: PCT/CA2021/000009
Authority: WO
Inventors: Giovanni BURRASCANO; Giovanni SALVO
Original assignee: Burrascano Giovanni
Priority date: 2020-02-17
Filing date: 2021-02-17
Publication date: 2021-08-26
Also published as: CA3171674A1

Abstract

A device for retail theft prevention is associated with an item and comprises a controller module having an associated memory of controller executable code, a light measuring sensor module and status condition indicating module both of which are in communication with the controller module. The controller comprises a database of predetermined parameters. The light measurement sensor module is mounted and provides for measuring light surrounding the item. The controller module receives a light measurement from light measurement sensor module. The controller module determines if a light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or an abnormal condition status based on the predetermined parameters. The controller module transmits the determined condition status for the status indicating module.

Description

TITLE

SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHOD FOR RETAIL THEFT PREVENTION USING LIGHT MEASUREMENT DETECTION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority on United States Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 62/977,544 filed on February 17^th, 2020 and incorporated herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the prevention of theft in retail outlets. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a system, device and method for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection.

BACKGROUND

[0003] A variety of light sensor and anti-theft devices are known in the retail industry. Some of these devices detect concealment of items in stores. When the item is on a shelf and is being displayed to shoppers the light sensor device detects light indicative of a normal state (i.e. the item on which it is attached to is in a normal state). This normal state includes a displayed condition (item on a shelf) or that the item is in normal transit. For example, it has been taken off the shelf to be brought to the checkout section of the store either by hand or via a cart. The anti-theft device detects light and this indicates that the item has not been concealed from light. Therefore, thieves who attempt to hide the item with the device in a bag, or under the jacket or other clothing will conceal the light sensor along with the item. Therefore, the light sensor will not detect light and this is indicative of an abnormal state (i.e. the item is hidden). The device will signal the abnormal state to prevent theft (alarm, message etc.).

[0004] Thieves may defeat these devices by concealing the item during theft while still providing light. For example, a thief may bag the item or place it in their pocket, or in their jacket and use a handheld mobile device for example to provide light to the sensor. The thief may use other lighting devices such as a flashlight, a pocket light and the like. The thief may place the fight on top of the sensor. A bag with internal lights mounted to its inner surface to provide lighting to the sensor may also be used by the thief.

[0005] In any of the forgoing events or like events, the sensor will continue detecting light and the device will continue indicating a normal state even though the item is concealed and in the process of being stolen.

OBJECTS

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a device for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a kit for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection.

SUMMARY

[0010] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided device for retail theft prevention, the device being associated with an item and comprising: a controller module having an associated memory of controller executable code, the controller module comprising a databank of predetermined parameters; a light measurement sensor module mounted to the item and being in communication with the controller module, the light measurement module providing for measuring light surrounding the item; and a status condition indicating module in communication with the controller module, wherein execution of the controller executable code provides the controller module with performing controller imp!ementable steps of: receiving a light measurement from light measurement sensor module; determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or an abnormal condition status based on the predetermined parameters; transmitting the determined condition status for the status indicating module. [0011] In an embodiment, the execution of the controller executable code provides the controller module with performing controller implementable steps of: ascertaining first and second stages of an abnormal condition continuum, wherein the first state comprises an onset of an abnormal condition status and the second stage comprises an actualization of an abnormal condition status. In an embodiment, the transition from the first stage to the second stage is dependent on one or more detected conditions in addition to the light measurement. In an embodiment, the one or more detected conditions selected from the group consisting of time span, movement, sound, temperature, heat, location, a captured image and any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the first and second stage status of the abnormal condition continuum is transmitted to the indication module for selective indication thereof.

[0012] In an embodiment, the predetermined parameters are selected from the group consisting of; a light intensity, a light intensity variation, a light density, a light density variation, a type of light, a type of light variation, a light color, a light color variation, a light frequency, a light frequency variation, a distance from a light source, a light source distance variation, a proximity to a light source, a light source proximity variation, a position of a light source, a light source position variation, an angle of a light source, a light source angle variation, a real time modification in the light, a similarity comparison of the light measurement with the light being measured by other sensors in proximity thereto and any combination thereof.

[0013] In an embodiment, the predetermined parameters are dependent on further predetermined parameters selected from the group consisting of: the time of day, the duration of a given light measurement, a similarity comparison of the duration of a given light measurement with the duration of the similar light measurements by other sensors in proximity thereof and any combination thereof.

[0014] In an embodiment, the device further comprises an additional condition detection module in communication with the controller module.

[0015] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises at least one sound sensor for detecting a sound, wherein the sound is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected sound. In an embodiment, the detected sound being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the sound, the volume level of the sound, the soundwave profile of the sound and any combination thereof.

[0016] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises at least one motion sensor for detecting motion, wherein the motion is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected motion. In an embodiment, the detected motion being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected motion, the type of motion, the velocity of the motion, the absence of motion and any combination thereof.

[0017] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting temperature, wherein the temperature is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected temperature. I n an embodiment, the detected temperature being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected temperature, the range of the temperature and any combination thereof.

[0018] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises at least one location sensor for detecting the location of the item, wherein the item location is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected location. In an embodiment, the detected location being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected location and any combination thereof.

[0019] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises at least one heat sensor for detecting heat on the item of about the item, wherein the detected heat is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected heat. In an embodiment, the detected heat being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected heat, the level of the detected heat, the variation of the detected heat and any combination thereof.

[0020] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module is activated for detecting based on a subset of predetermined parameters comprising activation triggers selected from the group consisting of light measurement and/or one more additionally detected event.

[0021] In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises a sensor module, the sensor module comprising one or more sensors selected from the group consisting of a a motion sensor, a vibration sensor, a compass sensor, a tilt sensor, an acceleration sensor, a sound sensor, a temperature sensor, a location sensor, a heat sensor. In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises an image capturing device. In an embodiment, the additional condition detection module comprises a time measurement device.

[0022] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system according wherein the controller module of the devices herein comprises a processor in communication with a server.

[0023] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit comprising a plurality of the devices herein.

[0024] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for retail theft prevention of an item, the method comprising: the device being associated with an item and comprising: measuring light surrounding the item; determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or an abnormal condition status based on predetermined parameters; indicating the determined condition status.

[0025] In an embodiment of the method, the predetermined parameters are selected from the group consisting of: a light intensity, a light intensity variation, a light density, a light density variation, a type of light, a type of light variation, a light color, a light color variation, a light frequency, a light frequency variation, a distance from a light source, a light source distance variation, a proximity to a light source, a iight source proximity variation, a position of a Iight source, a light source position variation, an angle of a light source, a tight source angle variation, a real time modification in the light, a similarity comparison of the Iight measurement with the Iight being measured by other sensors in proximity thereto and any combination thereof.

[0026] In an embodiment, the method further comprises ascertaining first and second stages of an abnormal condition continuum, wherein the first state comprises an onset of an abnormal condition status and the second stage comprises an actualization of an abnormal condition status. In an embodiment, the transition from the first stage to the second stage is dependent on one or more detected conditions in addition to the Iight measurement, in an embodiment, the one or more detected conditions comprise a condition selected from the group consisting of time span, movement, sound, temperature, heat, location, a captured image and any combination thereof.

[0027] Other objects, advantages and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-nestrictive description of illustrative embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In the appended drawings:

[0029] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the system and device for retail theft prevention using light measurement detection in accordance with a non-restrictive illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Generally stated and in accordance with an embodiment, there is provided a device for retail theft prevention. The device is associated with an item and comprises a controller module having an associated memory of controller executable code, a light measuring sensor module and status condition indicating module both of which are in communication with the controller module. The controller comprises a database of predetermined parameters. The light measurement sensor module is mounted and provides for measuring light surrounding the item. The controller module receives a light measurement from light measurement sensor module. The controller module determines if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition based on the predetermined parameters. The controller module transmits the determined condition status for the status indicating module.

[0031] With reference, to the appended Figure 1, non-restrictive illustrative embodiments will be herein described so as to further exemplify the disclosure only and by no limit the scope thereof.

[0032] Figure 1 shows a device 10 comprising a controller module 12 and a light measuring sensor module 14. The light measuring sensor module 14 is communication with the controller module 14; this communication may be provided by wire orwireless communication, in an embodiment, the modules 12 and 14 are separate devices forming a device assembly 10. In an embodiment, modules 12 and 14 form part of an integrated single piece device 10.

[0033] In an embodiment, the light measuring sensor module 14 comprises a light intensity sensor, a light density sensor and a combination thereof, In an embodiment, the light measuring sensor module 14 provides for detecting light intensity level and/or density level. In an embodiment, the light measuring sensor module 14 comprises luminary sensors, lux sensors, luminosity sensors, illuminance variability sensors, and the like, photo resistors, photo diodes, photo transistors, CCD-Sensors (array, line or dot sensors), light color sensor array, and combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the light measuring sensor module 14 measures a condition selected from the group consisting of a light intensity, a light density, a type of light, a light color, a distance from a light source, position of light source, including angle, a real time modification in the light, illuminance volatility, a similarity comparison of the light measurement with the light being measured by other sensors in proximity thereto and any combination thereof including real time variations of each of the foregoing measurements for a predetermined span of time. In an embodiment, the light measurement sensor module 14 comprises a filter for filtering out certain types of lights so as not to consider these lights as will be further discussed below. In an embodiment, the filter comprises a Wratten filter. In an embodiment, the light measurement sensor module 14 comprises a light color sensor providing for determining the frequency of the ambient light surrounding the sensor so as to transmit the various frequency, spectrum and intensity readings to the control moduie 14, the control module 14 providing for filtering out certain frequencies on the basis of the predetermined parameters so as to not take into account certain lights sources and take into account other light sources as will be further discussed below.

[0034] The light measurement sensor module 14 communicates the light measurement to the controller module 12.

[0035] The controller module 10 is configured to ascertain whether the detected light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or of an abnormal condition status based on the predetermined parameters.

[0036] It should be understood that a normal condition status herein is when the item associated with the device or assembly 10 is in a safe condition and abnormal condition status is when the item associated with the device or assembly 10 is in an unsafe condition such as the theft or attempted theft thereof and the related ancillary actions to which the item is submitted to for such ends.

[0037] The controller module 12 is in communication with a status condition indicating module 16 for providing indication of a status condition. This communication may be provided by wire or wireless communication. In an embodiment, the modules 12 and 16 are separate devices forming a device assembly 10. In an embodiment, modules 12 and 16 form part of an integrated single piece device 10. In an embodiment, the status condition indicating module 16 is a signalling module and comprises an alarm producing sound and/or visual cues indicative of a condition status. In an embodiment, the status condition indicating module 16 comprises an output interface for emitting the condition status (i.e normal or abnormal and increments thereof) as will be exemplified herein.

[0038] In an embodiment, the controller module 12 is in communication with an additional condition detector module 20. This communication may be provided by wire or wireless communication. In an embodiment, the modules 12 and 20 are separate devices forming a device assembly 10. In an embodiment, modules 12 and 20 form part of an integrated single piece device 10. The additional condition detector module 20 is configured for detecting an additional condition status. The controller module 12 provides for ascertaining whether the additional condition status is a normal or abnormal condition status. The controller 12 provides for ascertaining whether the additional condition status in combination with a given light measurement as provided herein is indicative of a norma! or abnormal condition status. The additional condition status is provided by a one or more non-light additional detected measurements.

[0039] In embodiment, the additional condition detector module comprises a module selected from the group consisting of a sensor module 20A, an image capturing device 20B, a time measurement device 20C and any combination thereof.

[0040] In a non-limiting example, the one or more sensors of the sensor module 20A are selected from the group consisting of and without limitation to: a motion sensor, a vibration sensor, a compass sensor, a tilt sensor, an acceleration sensor, a sound sensor, a temperature sensor, a location sensor, a heat sensor. The sensors provide for determining whether a sensed action (motion, sound, vibration, orientation, tilt etc.) is temporary, continuous, or continuous with interruption intervals. The controller module 12 is configured to receive a detected motion condition status and/or a detected vibration condition status and/or a detected orientation condition status and/or a detected tilting position condition and/ora detected acceleration condition status and/or a detected sound status condition and/or a detected temperature status condition and/or a detected location status and/or a detected heat status from the additional sensor module 20. In an embodiment, activation of the sensor module 20A is based on a subset of predetermined parameters including the light measurement and/or other activation trigger events as determined by the user and/or manufacturer. [0041] The controller module 12 is provided to ascertain whether a normal or abnormal condition status based on the combination of an additional condition status (i.e. movement including motion, vibration, tilt, orientation, and/or acceleration, sound, temperature and any combination thereof) within a predetermined detected light measurement.

[0042] In an embodiment, the image capturing device 20B comprises a camera for recording images. In embodiment, the camera is prompted to record an image when triggered by a light measurement within certain parameters and/or one or more other detected conditions such as sound, a movement and the like as provided herein. Thus, the controller module 12 is provided to ascertain whether a normal or abnormal image has been captured in addition to one or more other conditions or in addition to the measured light or a combination thereof in order to determine the overall condition status.

[0043] In an embodiment, the time measurement device 20C provides for measuring the time and/or the duration of a light measurement and/or another additional condition. The controller module 12 is provided to ascertain whether the time of day and/or the duration of light measurement is indicative of a normal or abnormal status, and/or whether a combination of the time of day and/or duration of one or more additional conditions in combination with a given light measurement is indicative of a normal or abnormal status, and/or whether the time of day and/or duration of a light measurement in combination with the time of day and/or duration of one or more additional conditions is indicative of a normal or abnormal status.

[0044] Moreover, the time measurement device 2GC can determine light measurement time intervals wherein a condition status within the light measurement time intervals triggers the light measuring sensor 20.

[0045] The status indicating module 16 provides for signalling a condition status. An abnormal condition status also comprises an onset stage of the abnormal condition status and an actualized stage of the abnormal condition status. The onset stage comprises initial indicators that an abnormal light intensity measurement has been detected within a predetermined tolerated time frame and/or in combination with one or more tolerated additional conditions and/or in combination with one or more additional conditions within a tolerate time frame. Thus, at the onset stage as ascertained by the controller module 12, the status indicating module 16 may signal a warning indication such as visual and/or sound and/or motion (i.e. vibration) cues to indicate to the user (i.e. customer and/or store personnel) that there is a possibility of the current condition or combination of conditions will lead to an actualization of an abnormal condition which will be indicated by module 16 via an alarm to indicate attempted theft and thus “call” for intervention by store personnel. Practically speaking, the device provides a 10 provides a delay before an anti-theft alarm is triggered and provides warning beeps or other cues to the customer to correct the condition.

[0046] The controller module 12 provides for modulating the operation of the light measuring sensor and the additional condition detector module 20 to provide “wake-up” and “sleep" modes.

[0047] In an embodiment, the controller module 12 comprises a microprocessor 22 having an associated memory 24 of microprocessor executable code that when executed by the microprocessor 22 provide the controller module 12 with performing controller implementable steps. In an embodiment, the microprocessor 22 includes a databank 26 of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the controller module 12 comprises a processor 28 having an associated memory 30 of processor executable code that when executed by the processor 28 provide the controller module 12 with performing controller implementable steps. In an embodiment, the processor 28 includes a databank 32 of predetermined parameters. In an embodiment, the controller module 12 includes both the microprocessor 22 and the processor 28 which are in wire or wireless communication and the module 12 can be a single integrated piece or an assembly. In an embodiment, the module 12 (in any of the foregoing configuration) is in communication via a network with a server 36 which implements the steps and comprises a databank of parameters.

[0048] The controller implementable steps herein comprise receiving a detected light measurement and comparing the detected light measurement to predetermined light measurement parameters to ascertain whether the detected light measurement falls within a range considered to indicate a normal or an abnormal condition status and to indicate this status via the status indicating module 16.

[0049] The controller implementable steps herein comprise ascertaining whether the detected light measurement in combination with the additional status condition detected via the additional condition detection module 20 falls within a range considered to indicate a normal or an abnormal condition status based on the predetermined parameters and to indicate this status via the status indicating module

16.

[0050] The server 35 and a plurality of device 10 provide a system S that allows the server 36 to accumulate within its databank additional information for machine learning in order to refine the detected conditions within or without user input or modulation.

[0051] In an embodiment, the device 10 includes a user interface 34, The user rnput/output interface is in wire or wireless communication with the controller module 12 to providing the user to input commands to the controller module 12 for modulation thereof, for example modulation of the predetermined parameters adding new parameters, combinations thereof as well as new additional parameters.

[0052] The processor executable code provides for the controller module 12 to receive the condition measurements from modules 14 as well as 20 and to compare these measurements to the predetermined parameters stored in the databank(s) herein.

[0053] Having now provided the non-limiting architecture of the device 10 and the system S and the inherent method thereof, a variety of non-limiting exemplary implementations will now further exemplify the disclosure.

[0054] In an embodiment, the device 10 is mounted to an item positioned on a shelf and a thief attempts to steal it. In various examples below, the thief attempts to avoid concealing the device 10 as this would indicate a lack of light, a lack of light being a predetermined parameter that would indicate an abnormal condition. [0055] In an embodiment and to clarify the foregoing, the light measuring module 14 is not constantly reading the ambient light, it is in ‘sleep mode’ and ‘wakes up' to read the ambient light when moved for example. In this case, the module 20 via a motion sensor will send the movement signal to the controller module 12 which in turn would 'wake up' the light measuring module 14 to read the ambient light condition status. Once the module sees normal ambient light and then darkness (when concealed within a bag or jacket etc.), this modification of light condition will be ascertained by the controller module 12 and determined to be at least the onset stage of an abnormal condition status. Indeed, a dim light or a total lack of light would be a predetermined parameter of an abnormal condition status. The module 16 can provide a delay and send signals to the customer or personnel that an onset is in progress. An additional condition would be the time frame and/or types of motion as discussed above. Thus, the controller 12 with additional conditions would ascertain that the condition status continuum has entered the second stage of actualization causing module 16 to send an alarm signal for example.

[0056] Usually shelves are dark places and thus, it may be convenient for the module 14 to be in sleep mode so as to avoid false alarms. When the device 10 is picked up it can then start reading the ambient light condition. A thief may attempt to defeat the device 10 by first concealing the light sensor 14 and then moving it with the reasoning that once the sensor 14 wakes up it will believe that its initial reading is normal. For example, during the light sampling stage (further discussed below), the sensor 14 takes an immediate reading of the initial condition once it wakes up and then of the subsequent variations of the light conditions as it is tampered with (concealed, bagged etc.). The initial sampling is stored in the databank as a predetermined parameter that the subsequent light measurements will be compared to. The thief wanting to avoid this, would block the light at the initial wake up stage thinking that the initial sampling (no light) would be stored as a normal condition and as the light condition would not vary in the subsequent readings the device 10 would be defeated. Indeed, one of the predetermined parameters is that once a sensor 14 wakes up by the movement of the box (via the motion sensor reading) or by another condition (e.g. temperature sensor reading a sudden change in temperature from a shelf to a bag) or other combinations of predetermined conditions that provide for the wake up of the light measurement sensor 14, the initial light reading should not be darkness or dimness under a certain level. Such an initial reading is ascertained by the controller module 12 as being an onset of an abnormal condition (first stage). The second stage (actualization of the abnormal condition) would be achieved on the basis of one or more additional conditions including without limitation the time frame of the initial abnormal light reading, the movement of the device 10 such as its acceleration, tilt, orientation etc. Thus, the thief would be prevented from executing this plan.

[0057] In another example, the thief places the item under a foreign light e.g. a flashlight, a torch tight (via their handheld mobile), a booster bag etc. Thus, when the item is concealed and under this foreign light the thief tries to emulate the ambient light in an attempt to trick the device 10 that it is in a normal condition setting, indeed, the foregoing can be ascertained by various ways. For example, the light sensor 14 can read a distance or proximity of a light source that will be ascertained to be unacceptable by the control module 12 based on the predetermined parameters, In another embodiment, the light measurement sensor 14 can also read the position and angle of this light source. Indeed, proximity and/or position of a light source such as handheld phone light is different than an ambient light, Moreover, variation of the distance/proximity and/or position is another predetermined parameter indicative of an abnormal condition. Furthermore, during movement of an item in a bag, or under a jacket, there is natural illuminance volatility or variation of intensity, with the foreign light moving closer or further away or with the thief bagging other items and sometimes blocking the foreign light etc. This variation or volatility is read by light measurement module 14 and transmitted to the controller module 12 which ascertains based on the predetermined parameters that the condition is abnormal.

[0058] Indeed, the transition between the first and second stages of the abnormal condition continuum or the transition of the first stage of the abnormal condition continuum to a normal condition status can be based on one or more additional conditions such as time, movement, velocity, temperature, location and/or captured image etc. as provided herein.

[0059] In another embodiment, the module 14 comprises a color sensor. In an embodiment, the color sensor could include multiple color light sensors. The color sensor is used to distinguish various light sources which can include for example and without limitation an ambient light source indicative of the normal status condition, a foreign light source indicative of an abnormal status identified by a pre-determined light characteristic or spectrum signature (for example frequency, wavelength, spectrum, luminosity, and intensity of a LED light from a smart phone’s flashlight for example). The controller module 14 provides for ascertaining between the normal and abnormal light sources based on the predetermined parameters and determine whether the abnormal condition continuum has progressed from the first stage to the second stage. For example, the condition status indicator will emit audible and visual indicators if an abnormal status is actualized after a predetermined period (i.e 10 sec).

[0060] In an embodiment, the light measurement module 14 comprises an non-visible light sensor for reading normal invisible light array of infrared and/or ultraviolet pods positioned in the store. The light measurement module does not read other lights including the visible lights of the store. Therefore, when the device 10 is moved and this is detected by the module 20, the module 14 will wake up to take its initial reading, as it can only read IR and/or UV light then, if this light is not captured it would be the indication of an abnormal condition status. The transition from the first to the second stage of the abnormal condition continuum can be dependent on one or more additional conditions.

[0081] In another embodiment, the module 14 comprises a light sensor with a Wratten filter for filtering our certain light sources. When a thief attempts to trick the device 10 by emitting a foreign light on it that is filtered out by the filter, the light sensor 14 would continue to read the ambient conditions and the reading of the ambient conditions (darkness, light variation, light source proximity or variation thereof etc.) would be indicative of the onset of the abnormal condition.

[0062] In one implementation, the device 10 provides for distinguishing between a “normal light" that is characteristic of the store environment and one that is “foreign” (i.e. not characteristic of the store environment). The light measuring sensor module 14 takes a sampling of the store light condition over a period of time this sampling is stored with the databank of the device 10 or system S providing the controller module 12 to compare real time measured light with the stored sampling parameter in order to ascertain whether the real time light being measured is a normal light (i.e, matching the sampling within the stored predetermined parameters) or foreign (i.e. not matching the sampling within the stored predetermined parameters). Thus, a normal light is indicative of a normal condition status and an ascertained foreign light is indicative of an abnormal condition status. The condition is indicated via the status indicating module 16. In the event of an abnormal status condition, module 16 can indicate this via an audio alarm (beeps, sounds etc.).

[0063] In an implementation, the distinction between a normal and a foreign light is based on the predetermined parameter of a time range. For example, the module 14 will be measuring and sampling the environment light in real time as light conditions change over a long period of time, thus sampling in real time and updating the databank of the controller module 12 in real time will avoid false alarms caused by store light variations. On the other hand, an abrupt short spurt of change in light (i.e. high intensity) would indicate a light measurement that is foreign to the ambient light (i.e. environment light).

[0064] A thief may attempt to defeat the foregoing by trying to trick the device 10 into sampling a false ambient (or normal light). This may be done by purposes purposely putting the "foreign" light onto the device 10 and then waiting a for a long period thereby the foreign light will be stored as normal. In order to solve this issue, ambient light measurement is performed within the predetermined parameter of random sampling. Thus, the exact time of sampling and the length of sampling is unpredictable. In another embodiment, the controller module 12 is in communication with the user interface 34 for user input of commands causing the controller module 12 to perform controller implementable steps including modulating the predetermined parameters. The retailer via the user interface sets a variable sampling pattern. In another embodiment, the devices 10 are provided with different sampling patterns during production. In an embodiment, the manufacturer sets a variable sampling pattern via the server 36 in order to modulate the parameters.

[0065] In an embodiment, sampling is performed based on an additional detected parameter via the additional condition detection module 20. This sampling and light measurement comparisons can be performed based on a movement parameter, a sound parameter, a temperature parameter and like detected conditions. [0066] In an embodiment, light measurement is based on a time lapse parameter as mentioned above. The duration of the light intensity reading is measured. The controller module 12 will discern between a normal condition status and an abnormal condition status based on a predetermined time lapse for a give light measurement range. The foregoing parameters can be modulated as explained above.

[0067] For example, a reading which did not last more than a long duration would be eliminated from the «normal light » data sampling. For example, the duration could be 10 hours for the « normal » light and this would mean that the thief would have to find a way to place « foreign » light for 10 hours onto the device without it being noticed by store personnel or customers. Since lights from cel! phones can become the « tool of choice by thieves » this « duration » feature will become effective since thieves will not want to leave their phones for hours at the store out in the open.

[0068] The processor 28 and/or server 36 provides for comparing detected light measurements via modules 14 and other detected conditions via the additional sensor modules 20 from a plurality of devices 10. In an embodiment, a plurality of devices 10 is grouped together based on proximity within a store, for example clusters of devices 10 can be grouped providing a store with one more dusters monitored by the processor 28. The foregoing monitoring can be accomplished by the server 36. The server 36 can monitor via the network N a plurality of devices from a plurality of stores in a plurality of locations. Thus, the system S provides for machine learning to continuously automatically update the parameters herein in real time.

[0069] For example, the control module 10 (with or without the server 36) provides for comparing light measurement between devices 10 of a given group (selected based on location and/or proximity)- In an embodiment, location and proximity is determined using a locator module. In an embodiment, the locator module is selected from the group consisting of and without limitation to GPS, RFID identifier, geo-location devices, camera imaging devices and the like.

[0070] In one embodiment, a light measurement for a given device 10 in a given group that does not have sufficient commonality (as determined by the parameters) with the majority of light measurements or with the light measurement average based on the predetermined parameters would be considered as an abnormal status condition. This would thus further frustrate the efforts of the thief in attempting to defeat the device 10 and system S as the light measurements of the surrounding devices would act as a control group on the device 10 that is under attack by the thief.

[0071] Another benefit of receiving data from a plurality of devices 10 as provided herein is that the absence of a device 10 from a group can be detected. This wouid be indicative that an item has left (or cannot be detected in) a given area and this highly valuable information is communicate to store personnel via the indicator module 16 by way of a user interface that a high risk item is travelling in the store. Personnel could then verify if that item has been purchased at store exits.

[0072] in an embodiment, the additional sensor module 16 comprises a sound sensor. In an embodiment, the sound sensor detects sound waves and transmits this data to the control module 10. A predetermined sound type is indicative of an event when combined with the light measurement and other detected events such as motion all within the predetermined parameters describe herein.

[0073] For example, sound waves are modified (modification includes a sound wave disturbance, dampening of sound waves or near or total elimination of sound waves) when an item and its associated device are under attack for example when in transit or when an item is concealed or when an item is placed in a bag or tampered with. These “abnormal” sounds are classified as such by the control module 10 which together with the light parameters and other detected events when combined provides for discerning between a normal status condition and an abnormal status condition.

[0074] An abnormal status condition is incrementally graduated or scaled from low level to a higher level based on the predetermined parameters and accordingly these gradations of abnormality are indicated by the indicating module 16 via alarm sounds for example such as beeps incrementally increasing in volume and repetition to correspond to a given level of abnormality in the status condition. [0075] When an item is concealed the soundwaves are partially or fully eliminated which would be a condition to set off warning sounds and/or other sounds such as alarm type sounds. Soundwaves are not being registered when the device 10 is in "sleep mode” and that the receiver begins sampling sound when it becomes “awake” such as when it is "pinged” with a unique “ping signal·’ at which point it listens for the unique sound signature. Once awakened if the sound signal is non-present or the sound signal is disturbed (sound print changes) this would be indicative of concealment, which would then cause the device to be triggered and send an alert or produce an alarm sound via module 16. This disturbance would be a condition that would trigger warning sounds and/or alarm-type sounds.

[0076] Duration of the disturbance would be parameter that would reduce accidental alarms. The disturbance would have to last for a sufficient amount of time based on the predetermined parameters.

[0077] The controller module 12 ascertains that it is no longer receiving a sound signal from the module 16 based on the item being abnormally absent or silent or the item having been purchased and as such controller module 12 is updated by the directly or indirectly by the POS module.

[0078] A transmitting device could also send a unique “sound print" which the device 10 would recognize. The device would be equipped with a motion sensor and be in sleep mode. Once it would be picked up then it would then go into active mode and be listening for the “sound print” emitted from the transmitting device. If the “sound print” is suddenly non-present or “disturbed” then the device would signal an alert or alarm. “Disturbed” means that a sound wave has a pattern similar to the “sound print” but has an irregularity or that that the signal is same or similar to the "sound print” but that the decibel level peaks are not as high or pronounced due to the muffling effect that concealment will create. "Disturbed" also means that a sound wave has a pattern equal or similar but that the decibel level (db level) is lower to a degree which is indicative of concealment since the sound is muffled when it is hidden in a bag, purse, container, under someone’s coat, etc. When a purchase is made, the device can be disabled which would change in state from active to non-active meaning it would stop listening for the “sound print” emitted from the transmitting device. [0079] The various features described herein can be combined in a variety of ways within the context of the present disclosure so as to provide still other embodiments. As such, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive. Moreover, the embodiments discussed herein need not include all of the features and elements illustrated and/or described and thus partial combinations of features can also be contemplated. Furthermore, embodiments with less features than those described can also be contemplated. It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described hereinabove. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not limitation.

[0080] Hence, although the present disclosure has been provided hereinabove by way of non-restrictive illustrative embodiments thereof, it can be modified, without departing from the scope, spirit and nature thereof and of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 . A device for retail theft prevention, the device being associated with an item and comprising: a controller module having an associated memory of controller executable code, the controller module comprising a databank of predetermined parameters; a light measurement sensor module mounted to the item and being in communication with the controller module, the light measurement module providing for measuring light surrounding the item; and a status condition indicating module in communication with the controller module, wherein execution of the controller executable code provides the controller module with performing controller imp!ementable steps of: receiving a light measurement from light measurement sensor module; determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or an abnormal condition status based on the predetermined parameters;

- transmitting the determined condition status for the status indicating module.

2. A device according to claim 1 , wherein execution of the controller executable code provides the controller module with performing controller implementable steps of: ascertaining first and second stages of an abnormal condition continuum, wherein the first state comprises an onset of an abnormal condition status and the second stage comprises an actualization of an abnormal condition status.

3. A device according to claim 2, wherein the transition from the first stage to the second stage is dependent on one or more detected conditions in addition to the light measurement.

4. A device according to claim 3, wherein the one or more detected conditions selected from the group consisting of time span, movement, sound, temperature, heat, location, a captured image and any combination thereof.

5. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the first and second stage status of the abnormal condition continuum is transmitted to the indication module for selective indication thereof.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the predetermined parameters are selected from the group consisting of: a light intensity, a light intensity variation, a light density, a light density variation, a type of light, a type of light variation, a light color, a light color variation, a light frequency, a light frequency variation, a distance from a light source, a light source distance variation, a proximity to a light source, a light source proximity variation, a position of a light source, a light source position variation, an angle of a light source, a light source angle variation, a real time modification in the light, a similarity comparison of the light measurement with the light being measured by other sensors in proximity thereto and any combination thereof.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined parameters are dependent on further predetermined parameters selected from the group consisting of: the time of day, the duration of a given light measurement, a similarity comparison of the duration of a given light measurement with the duration of the similar light measurements by other sensors in proximity thereof and any combination thereof.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising an additional condition detection module in communication with the controller module.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises at least one sound sensor for detecting a sound, wherein the sound is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected sound.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the detected sound being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the sound, the volume level of the sound, the soundwave profile of the sound and any combination thereof.

12. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 11. wherein the additional condition detection module comprises at least one motion sensor for detecting motion, wherein the motion is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected motion.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the detected motion being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected motion, the type of motion, the velocity of the motion, the absence of motion and any combination thereof.

15. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises at least one temperature sensor for detecting temperature, wherein the temperature is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected temperature.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the detected temperature being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected temperature, the range of the temperature and any combination thereof.

18. The device according to any one of cfaims 8 to 17, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises at least one location sensor for detecting the location of the item, wherein the item location is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected location.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the detected location being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters.

20. The device according to claim 19, wherein the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected location and any combination thereof.

21. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 20, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises at least one heat sensor for detecting heat on the item of about the item, wherein the detected heat is ascertained by the controller module based on the predetermined parameters, wherein determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal status condition or an abnormal status condition is dependent on the detected heat.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the detected heat being ascertained with a given light measurement to be indicative of a status condition is dependent on a further subset of predetermined parameters.

23. The device according to claim 22, wherein the subset of predetermined parameters comprises the time of day, the duration of the detected heat, the level of the detected heat, the variation of the detected heat and any combination thereof.

24. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 23, wherein the additional condition detection module is activated for detecting based on a subset of predetermined parameters comprising activation triggers selected from the group consisting of light measurement and/or one more additionally detected event.

25. The device according to claim 8, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises a sensor module, the sensor module comprising one or more sensors selected from the group consisting of a a motion sensor, a vibration sensor, a compass sensor, a tilt sensor, an acceleration sensor, a sound sensor, a temperature sensor, a location sensor, a heat sensor.

26, The device according to any one of claims 8 or 25, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises an image capturing device.

27. The device according to any one of claims 8, 25 or 26, wherein the additional condition detection module comprises a time measurement device.

28. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the controller module comprises a processor in communication with a server.

29. A kit according to any one of claims 1 to 28, comprising a plurality of the devices.

30. A method for retail theft prevention of an item, the method comprising: the device being associated with an item and comprising: measuring light surrounding the item; determining if a light measurement is indicative of a normal condition status or an abnormal condition status based on predetermined parameters; indicating the determined condition status.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the predetermined parameters are selected from the group consisting of: a light intensity, a light intensity variation, a light density, a light density variation, a type of light, a type of light variation, a light color, a light color variation, a light frequency, a light frequency variation, a distance from a light source, a light source distance variation, a proximity to a light source, a light source proximity variation, a position of a light source, a light source position variation, an angle of a light source, a light source angle variation, a real time modification in the light, a similarity comparison of the light measurement with the light being measured by other sensors in proximity thereto and any combination thereof.

32. The method according to any one of claims 30 or 31 , further comprising: ascertaining first and second stages of an abnormal condition continuum, wherein the first state comprises an onset of an abnormal condition status and the second stage comprises an actualization of an abnormal condition status.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the transition from the first stage to the second stage is dependent on one or more detected conditions in addition to the light measurement.

34. The method according to claim 331 , wherein the one or more detected conditions comprise a condition selected from the group consisting of time span, movement, sound, temperature, heat, location, a captured image and any combination thereof.