CA2957593A1

CA2957593A1 - Shopping facility assistance systems, devices and methods to detect and handle incorrectly placed items

Info

Publication number: CA2957593A1
Application number: CA2957593A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Donald R. HIGH; David C. Winkle; Brian G. MCHALE; Michael D. Atchley
Original assignee: Wal Mart Stores Inc
Current assignee: Walmart Apollo LLC
Priority date: 2016-02-05
Filing date: 2017-02-03
Publication date: 2017-08-05
Also published as: GB2548697B; GB201701922D0; GB2548697A

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided to address incorrectly placed items. Some systems comprise: a plurality of motorized transport units that are each configured to perform multiple different tasks at a retail shopping facility; and a central computer system configured to instruct various ones of the plurality of motorized transport units to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility, receive and analyze input data detected and provided by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the at least one of the tasks, and detect and categorize each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.

Description

SHOPPING FACILITY ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS
TO DETECT AND HANDLE INCORRECTLY PLACED ITEMS
Technical Field These teachings relate generally to shopping environments and more particularly to devices, systems and methods to detect and handle incorrectly placed items in shopping environments.
Background In a modern retail store environment, there is a need to improve the customer experience and/or convenience for the customer. Whether shopping in a large format (big box) store or smaller format (neighborhood) store, properly placed items and abandoned items can adversely affect customer experiences. Additionally, due to high employee turnover rates, available employees may not be fully trained or have access to information to adequately address incorrectly placed items. This can result in low customer satisfaction or reduced convenience to the customer.
With increasing competition from non-traditional shopping mechanisms, such as online shopping provided by e-commerce merchants and alternative store formats, it can be important for "brick and mortar" retailers to focus on improving the overall customer experience and/or convenience.
Brief Description of the Drawings The above needs are at least partially met through provision of embodiments of systems, devices, and methods designed to detect and address incorrectly placed items in a shopping facility, such as described in the following detailed description, particularly when studied in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 comprises a block diagram of a shopping assistance system as configured in accordance with various embodiments of these teachings;
FIGS. 2A and 2B are illustrations of a motorized transport unit of the system of FIG. 1 in a retracted orientation and an extended orientation in accordance with some embodiments;
FIGS. 3A and 3B are illustrations of the motorized transport unit of FIGS. 2A
and 2B
detachably coupling to a movable item container, such as a shopping cart, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 4 comprises a block diagram of a motorized transport unit as configured in accordance with various embodiments of these teachings;
FIG. 5 comprises a block diagram of a computer device as configured in accordance with various embodiments of these teachings; and FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified flow diagram of an exemplary process of addressing and/or categorizing incorrectly placed items, in accordance with some embodiments.
Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present teachings. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present teachings. Certain actions and/or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. The terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.
Detailed Description The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of exemplary embodiments.
Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
Generally speaking, pursuant to various embodiments, systems, devices and methods are provided for assistance of persons at a shopping facility. Generally, assistance may be provided to customers or shoppers at the facility and/or to workers at the facility.
The facility may be any type of shopping facility at a location in which products for display and/or for sale are variously

- 2 -distributed throughout the shopping facility space. The shopping facility may be a retail sales facility, or any other type of facility in which products are displayed and/or sold. The shopping facility may include one or more of sales floor areas, checkout locations, parking locations, entrance and exit areas, stock room areas, stock receiving areas, hallway areas, common areas shared by merchants, and so on. Generally, a shopping facility includes areas that may be dynamic in terms of the physical structures occupying the space or area and objects, items, machinery and/or persons moving in the area. For example, the shopping area may include product storage units, shelves, racks, modules, bins, etc., and other walls, dividers, partitions, etc. that may be configured in different layouts or physical arrangements. In other example, persons or other movable objects may be freely and independently traveling through the shopping facility space.
And in other example, the persons or movable objects move according to known travel patterns and timing. The facility may be any size of format facility, and may include products from one or more merchants.
For example, a facility may be a single store operated by one merchant or may be a collection of stores covering multiple merchants such as a mall. Generally, the system makes use of automated, robotic mobile devices, e.g., motorized transport units, that are capable of self-powered movement through a space of the shopping facility and providing any number of functions. Movement and operation of such devices may be controlled by a central computer system or may be autonomously controlled by the motorized transport units themselves. Various embodiments provide one or more user interfaces to allow various users to interact with the system including the automated mobile devices and/or to directly interact with the automated mobile devices. In some embodiments, the automated mobile devices and the corresponding system serve to enhance a customer shopping experience in the shopping facility, e.g., by assisting shoppers and/or workers at the facility.
In some embodiments, a shopping facility personal assistance system comprises:
a plurality of motorized transport units located in and configured to move through a shopping facility space;
a plurality of user interface units, each corresponding to a respective motorized transport unit during use of the respective motorized transport unit; and a central computer system having a network interface such that the central computer system wirelessly communicates with one or both of the plurality of motorized transport units and the plurality of user interface units, wherein the central computer system is configured to control movement of the plurality of motorized transport units through the shopping facility space based at least on inputs from the plurality of user interface units.

- 3 -SYSTEM OVERVIEW
Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates embodiments of a shopping facility assistance system 100 that can serve to carry out at least some of the teachings set forth herein. It will be understood that the details of this example are intended to serve in an illustrative capacity and are not necessarily intended to suggest any limitations as regards the present teachings. It is noted that generally, FIGS. 1-5 describe the general functionality of several embodiments of a system, and FIG. 6 expands on some functionalities of some embodiments of the system and/or embodiments independent of such systems.
In the example of FIG. 1, a shopping assistance system 100 is implemented in whole or in part at a shopping facility 101. Generally, the system 100 includes one or more motorized transport units (MTUs) 102; one or more item containers 104; a central computer system 106 having at least one control circuit 108, at least one memory 110 and at least one network interface 112; at least one user interface unit 114; a location determination system 116; at least one video camera 118; at least one motorized transport unit (MTU) dispenser 120; at least one motorized transport unit (MTU) docking station 122; at least one wireless network 124; at least one database 126; at least one user interface computer device 128; an item display module 130; and a locker or an item storage unit 132. It is understood that more or fewer of such components may be included in different embodiments of the system 100.
These motorized transport units 102 are located in the shopping facility 101 and are configured to move throughout the shopping facility space. Further details regarding such motorized transport units 102 appear further below. Generally speaking, these motorized transport units 102 are configured to either comprise, or to selectively couple to, a corresponding movable item container 104. A simple example of an item container 104 would be a shopping cart as one typically finds at many retail facilities, or a rocket cart, a flatbed cart or any other mobile basket or platform that may be used to gather items for potential purchase.
In some embodiments, these motorized transport units 102 wirelessly communicate with, and are wholly or largely controlled by, the central computer system 106. In particular, in some embodiments, the central computer system 106 is configured to control movement of the motorized transport units 102 through the shopping facility space based on a variety of inputs. For example, the central computer system 106 communicates with each motorized transport unit 102 via the wireless network 124 which may be one or more wireless networks of one or more wireless

- 4 -network types (such as, a wireless local area network, a wireless personal area network, a wireless mesh network, a wireless star network, a wireless wide area network, a cellular network, and so on), capable of providing wireless coverage of the desired range of the motorized transport units 102 according to any known wireless protocols, including but not limited to a cellular, Wi-Fi, Zigbee or Bluetooth network.
By one approach the central computer system 106 is a computer based device and includes at least one control circuit 108, at least one memory 110 and at least one wired and/or wireless network interface 112. Such a control circuit 108 can comprise a fixed-purpose hard-wired platform or can comprise a partially or wholly programmable platform, such as a microcontroller, an application specification integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, and so on. These architectural options are well known and understood in the art and require no further description here. This control circuit 108 is configured (for example, by using corresponding programming stored in the memory 110 as will be well understood by those skilled in the art) to carry out one or more of the steps, actions, and/or functions described herein.
In this illustrative example the control circuit 108 operably couples to one or more memories 110. The memory 110 may be integral to the control circuit 108 or can be physically discrete (in whole or in part) from the control circuit 108 as desired. This memory 110 can also be local with respect to the control circuit 108 (where, for example, both share a common circuit board, chassis, power supply, and/or housing) or can be partially or wholly remote with respect to the control circuit 108 (where, for example, the memory 110 is physically located in another facility, metropolitan area, or even country as compared to the control circuit 108).
This memory 110 can serve, for example, to non-transitorily store the computer instructions that, when executed by the control circuit 108, cause the control circuit 108 to behave as described herein. (As used herein, this reference to "non-transitorily"
will be understood to refer to a non-ephemeral state for the stored contents (and hence excludes when the stored contents merely constitute signals or waves) rather than volatility of the storage media itself and hence includes both non-volatile memory (such as read-only memory (ROM) as well as volatile memory (such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM).) Additionally, at least one database 126 may be accessible by the central computer system 106. Such databases may be integrated into the central computer system 106 or separate from it.
Such databases may be at the location of the shopping facility 101 or remote from the shopping

- 5 -facility 101. Regardless of location, the databases comprise memory to store and organize certain data for use by the central control system 106. In some embodiments, the at least one database 126 may store data pertaining to one or more of: shopping facility mapping data, customer data, customer shopping data and patterns, inventory data, product pricing data, and so on.
In this illustrative example, the central computer system 106 also wirelessly communicates with a plurality of user interface units 114. These teachings will accommodate a variety of user interface units including, but not limited to, mobile and/or handheld electronic devices such as so-called smart phones and portable computers such as tablet/pad-styled computers. Generally speaking, these user interface units 114 should be able to wirelessly communicate with the central computer system 106 via a wireless network, such as the wireless network 124 of the shopping facility 101 (such as a Wi-Fi wireless network). These user interface units 114 generally provide a user interface for interaction with the system. In some embodiments, a given motorized transport unit 102 is paired with, associated with, assigned to or otherwise made to correspond with a given user interface unit 114. In some embodiments, these user interface units 114 should also be able to receive verbally-expressed input from a user and forward that content to the central computer system 106 or a motorized transport unit 102 and/or convert that verbally-expressed input into a form useful to the central computer system 106 or a motorized transport unit 102.
By one approach at least some of the user interface units 114 belong to corresponding customers who have come to the shopping facility 101 to shop. By another approach, in lieu of the foregoing or in combination therewith, at least some of the user interface units 114 belong to the shopping facility 101 and are loaned to individual customers to employ as described herein. In some embodiments, one or more user interface units 114 are attachable to a given movable item container 104 or are integrated with the movable item container 104.
Similarly, in some embodiments, one or more user interface units 114 may be those of shopping facility workers, belong to the shopping facility 101 and are loaned to the workers, or a combination thereof.
In some embodiments, the user interface units 114 may be general purpose computer devices that include computer programming code to allow it to interact with the system 106. For example, such programming may be in the form of an application installed on the user interface unit 114 or in the form of a browser that displays a user interface provided by the central computer system 106 or other remote computer or server (such as a web server). In some embodiments, one or more user interface units 114 may be special purpose devices that are programmed to primarily

- 6 -function as a user interface for the system 100. Depending on the functionality and use case, user interface units 114 may be operated by customers of the shopping facility or may be operated by workers at the shopping facility, such as facility employees (associates or colleagues), vendors, suppliers, contractors, etc.
By one approach, the system 100 optionally includes one or more video cameras 118.
Captured video imagery from such a video camera 118 can be provided to the central computer system 106. That information can then serve, for example, to help the central computer system 106 determine a present location of one or more of the motorized transport units 102 and/or determine issues or concerns regarding automated movement of those motorized transport units 102 in the shopping facility space. As one simple example in these regards, such video information can permit the central computer system 106, at least in part, to detect an object in a path of movement of a particular one of the motorized transport units 102.
By one approach these video cameras 118 comprise existing surveillance equipment employed at the shopping facility 101 to serve, for example, various security purposes. By another approach these video cameras 118 are dedicated to providing video content to the central computer system 106 to facilitate the latter's control of the motorized transport units 102. If desired, the video cameras 118 can have a selectively movable field of view and/or zoom capability that the central computer system 106 controls as appropriate to help ensure receipt of useful information at any given moment.
In some embodiments, a location detection system 116 is provided at the shopping facility 101. The location detection system 116 provides input to the central computer system 106 useful to help determine the location of one or more of the motorized transport units 102. In some embodiments, the location detection system 116 includes a series of light sources (e.g., LEDs (light-emitting diodes)) that are mounted in the ceiling at known positions throughout the space and that each encode data in the emitted light that identifies the source of the light (and thus, the location of the light). As a given motorized transport unit 102 moves through the space, light sensors (or light receivers) at the motorized transport unit 102, on the movable item container 104 and/or at the user interface unit 114 receive the light and can decode the data. This data is sent back to the central computer system 106 which can determine the position of the motorized transport unit 102 by the data of the light it receives, since it can relate the light data to a mapping of the light sources to locations at the facility 101. Generally, such lighting systems are known

- 7 -and commercially available, e.g., the ByteLight system from ByteLight of Boston, Massachusetts.
In embodiments using a ByteLight system, a typical display screen of the typical smart phone device can be used as a light sensor or light receiver to receive and process data encoded into the light from the ByteLight light sources.
In other embodiments, the location detection system 116 includes a series of low energy radio beacons (e.g., Bluetooth low energy beacons) at known positions throughout the space and that each encode data in the emitted radio signal that identifies the beacon (and thus, the location of the beacon). As a given motorized transport unit 102 moves through the space, low energy receivers at the motorized transport unit 102, on the movable item container 104 and/or at the user interface unit 114 receive the radio signal and can decode the data. This data is sent back to the central computer system 106 which can determine the position of the motorized transport unit 102 by the location encoded in the radio signal it receives, since it can relate the location data to a mapping of the low energy radio beacons to locations at the facility 101.
Generally, such low energy radio systems are known and commercially available. In embodiments using a Bluetooth low energy radio system, a typical Bluetooth radio of a typical smart phone device can be used as a receiver to receive and process data encoded into the Bluetooth low energy radio signals from the Bluetooth low energy beacons.
In still other embodiments, the location detection system 116 includes a series of audio beacons at known positions throughout the space and that each encode data in the emitted audio signal that identifies the beacon (and thus, the location of the beacon). As a given motorized transport unit 102 moves through the space, microphones at the motorized transport unit 102, on the movable item container 104 and/or at the user interface unit 114 receive the audio signal and can decode the data. This data is sent back to the central computer system 106 which can determine the position of the motorized transport unit 102 by the location encoded in the audio signal it receives, since it can relate the location data to a mapping of the audio beacons to locations at the facility 101. Generally, such audio beacon systems are known and commercially available. In embodiments using an audio beacon system, a typical microphone of a typical smart phone device can be used as a receiver to receive and process data encoded into the audio signals from the audio beacon.
Also optionally, the central computer system 106 can operably couple to one or more user interface computers 128 (comprising, for example, a display and a user input interface such as a

- 8 -keyboard, touch screen, and/or cursor-movement device). Such a user interface computer 128 can permit, for example, a worker (e.g., an associate, analyst, etc.) at the retail or shopping facility 101 to monitor the operations of the central computer system 106 and/or to attend to any of a variety of administrative, configuration or evaluation tasks as may correspond to the programming and operation of the central computer system 106. Such user interface computers 128 may be at or remote from the location of the facility 101 and may access one or more the databases 126.
In some embodiments, the system 100 includes at least one motorized transport unit (MTU) storage unit or dispenser 120 at various locations in the shopping facility 101. The dispenser 120 provides for storage of motorized transport units 102 that are ready to be assigned to customers and/or workers. In some embodiments, the dispenser 120 takes the form of a cylinder within which motorized transports units 102 are stacked and released through the bottom of the dispenser 120.
Further details of such embodiments are provided further below. In some embodiments, the dispenser 120 may be fixed in location or may be mobile and capable of transporting itself to a given location or utilizing a motorized transport unit 102 to transport the dispenser 120, then dispense one or more motorized transport units 102.
In some embodiments, the system 100 includes at least one motorized transport unit (MTU) docking station 122. These docking stations 122 provide locations where motorized transport units 102 can travel and connect to. For example, the motorized transport units 102 may be stored and charged at the docking station 122 for later use, and/or may be serviced at the docking station 122.
In accordance with some embodiments, a given motorized transport unit 102 detachably connects to a movable item container 104 and is configured to move the movable item container 104 through the shopping facility space under control of the central computer system 106 and/or the user interface unit 114. For example, a motorized transport unit 102 can move to a position underneath a movable item container 104 (such as a shopping cart, a rocket cart, a flatbed cart, or any other mobile basket or platform), align itself with the movable item container 104 (e.g., using sensors) and then raise itself to engage an undersurface of the movable item container 104 and lift a portion of the movable item container 104. Once the motorized transport unit is cooperating with the movable item container 104 (e.g., lifting a portion of the movable item container), the motorized transport unit 102 can continue to move throughout the facility space 101 taking the movable item container 104 with it. In some examples, the motorized transport unit 102 takes the form of the motorized transport unit 202 of FIGS. 2A-3B as it engages and detachably connects to

- 9 -=
a given movable item container 104. It is understood that in other embodiments, the motorized transport unit 102 may not lift a portion of the movable item container 104, but that it removably latches to, connects to or otherwise attaches to a portion of the movable item container 104 such that the movable item container 104 can be moved by the motorized transport unit 102. For example, the motorized transport unit 102 can connect to a given movable item container using a hook, a mating connector, a magnet, and so on.
In addition to detachably coupling to movable item containers 104 (such as shopping carts), in some embodiments, motorized transport units 102 can move to and engage or connect to an item display module 130 and/or an item storage unit or locker 132. For example, an item display module 130 may take the form of a mobile display rack or shelving unit configured to house and display certain items for sale. It may be desired to position the display module 130 at various locations within the shopping facility 101 at various times. Thus, one or more motorized transport units 102 may move (as controlled by the central computer system 106) underneath the item display module 130, extend upward to lift the module 130 and then move it to the desired location.
A storage locker 132 may be a storage device where items for purchase are collected and placed therein for a customer and/or worker to later retrieve. In some embodiments, one or more motorized transport units 102 may be used to move the storage locker to a desired location in the shopping facility 101. Similar to how a motorized transport unit engages a movable item container 104 or item display module 130, one or more motorized transport units 102 may move (as controlled by the central computer system 106) underneath the storage locker 132, extend upward to lift the locker 132 and then move it to the desired location.
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate some embodiments of a motorized transport unit 202, similar to the motorized transport unit 102 shown in the system of FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the motorized transport unit 202 takes the form of a disc-shaped robotic device having motorized wheels (not shown), a lower body portion 204 and an upper body portion 206 that fits over at least part of the lower body portion 204. It is noted that in other embodiments, the motorized transport unit may have other shapes and/or configurations, and is not limited to disc-shaped. For example, the motorized transport unit may be cubic, octagonal, triangular, or other shapes, and may be dependent on a movable item container with which the motorized transport unit is intended to cooperate. Also included are guide members 208. In FIG. 2A, the motorized transport unit 202 is shown in a retracted position in which the upper body portion 206 fits over the lower body portion

-10-204 such that the motorized transport unit 202 is in its lowest profile orientation which is generally the preferred orientation for movement when it is unattached to a movable item container 104 for example. In FIG. 2B, the motorized transport unit 202 is shown in an extended position in which the upper body portion 206 is moved upward relative to the lower body portion 204 such that the motorized transport unit 202 is in its highest profile orientation for movement when it is lifting and attaching to a movable item container 104 for example. The mechanism within the motorized transport unit 202 is designed to provide sufficient lifting force to lift the weight of the upper body portion 206 and other objects to be lifted by the motorized transport unit 202, such as movable item containers 104 and items placed within the movable item container, item display modules 130 and items supported by the item display module, and storage lockers 132 and items placed within the storage locker. The guide members 208 are embodied as pegs or shafts that extend horizontally from the both the upper body portion 206 and the lower body portion 204. In some embodiments, these guide members 208 assist docking the motorized transport unit 202 to a docking station 122 or a dispenser 120. In some embodiments, the lower body portion 204 and the upper body portion are capable to moving independently of each other. For example, the upper body portion 206 may be raised and/or rotated relative to the lower body portion 204. That is, one or both of the upper body portion 206 and the lower body portion 204 may move toward/away from the other or rotated relative to the other. In some embodiments, in order to raise the upper body portion 206 relative to the lower body portion 204, the motorized transport unit 202 includes an internal lifting system (e.g., including one or more electric actuators or rotary drives or motors).
Numerous examples of such motorized lifting and rotating systems are known in the art.
Accordingly, further elaboration in these regards is not provided here for the sake of brevity.
FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate some embodiments of the motorized transport unit detachably engaging a movable item container embodied as a shopping cart 302.
In FIG 3A, the motorized transport unit 202 is in the orientation of FIG. 2A such that it is retracted and able to move in position underneath a portion of the shopping cart 302. Once the motorized transport unit 202 is in position (e.g., using sensors), as illustrated in FIG. 3B, the motorized transport unit 202 is moved to the extended position of FIG. 2B such that the front portion 304 of the shopping cart is lifted off of the ground by the motorized transport unit 202, with the wheels 306 at the rear of the shopping cart 302 remaining on the ground. In this orientation, the motorized transport unit 202 is able to move the shopping cart 302 throughout the shopping facility. It is noted that in these

-11-embodiments, the motorized transport unit 202 does not bear the weight of the entire cart 302 since the rear wheels 306 rest on the floor. It is understood that in some embodiments, the motorized transport unit 202 may be configured to detachably engage other types of movable item containers, such as rocket carts, flatbed carts or other mobile baskets or platforms.
FIG. 4 presents a more detailed example of some embodiments of the motorized transport unit 102 of FIG. 1. In this example, the motorized transport unit 102 has a housing 402 that contains (partially or fully) or at least supports and carries a number of components.
These components include a control unit 404 comprising a control circuit 406 that, like the control circuit 108 of the central computer system 106, controls the general operations of the motorized transport unit 102.
Accordingly, the control unit 404 also includes a memory 408 coupled to the control circuit 406 and that stores, for example, operating instructions and/or useful data.
The control circuit 406 operably couples to a motorized wheel system 410. This motorized wheel system 410 functions as a locomotion system to permit the motorized transport unit 102 to move within the aforementioned retail or shopping facility 101 (thus, the motorized wheel system 410 may more generically be referred to as a locomotion system). Generally speaking, this motorized wheel system 410 will include at least one drive wheel (i.e., a wheel that rotates (around a horizontal axis) under power to thereby cause the motorized transport unit 102 to move through interaction with, for example, the floor of the shopping facility 101). The motorized wheel system 410 can include any number of rotating wheels and/or other floor-contacting mechanisms as may be desired and/or appropriate to the application setting.
The motorized wheel system 410 also includes a steering mechanism of choice.
One simple example in these regards comprises one or more of the aforementioned wheels that can swivel about a vertical axis to thereby cause the moving motorized transport unit 102 to turn as well.
Numerous examples of motorized wheel systems are known in the art.
Accordingly, further elaboration in these regards is not provided here for the sake of brevity save to note that the aforementioned control circuit 406 is configured to control the various operating states of the motorized wheel system 410 to thereby control when and how the motorized wheel system 410 operates.
In this illustrative example, the control circuit 406 also operably couples to at least one wireless transceiver 412 that operates according to any known wireless protocol. This wireless transceiver 412 can comprise, for example, a Wi-Fi-compatible and/or Bluetooth-compatible

- 12 -transceiver that can communicate with the aforementioned central computer system 106 via the aforementioned wireless network 124 of the shopping facility 101. So configured the control circuit 406 of the motorized transport unit 102 can provide information to the central computer system 106 and can receive information and/or instructions from the central computer system 106.
As one simple example in these regards, the control circuit 406 can receive instructions from the central computer system 106 regarding movement of the motorized transport unit 102.
These teachings will accommodate using any of a wide variety of wireless technologies as desired and/or as may be appropriate in a given application setting. These teachings will also accommodate employing two or more different wireless transceivers 412 if desired.
The control circuit 406 also couples to one or more on-board sensors 414.
These teachings will accommodate a wide variety of sensor technologies and form factors. By one approach at least one such sensor 414 can comprise a light sensor or light receiver. When the aforementioned location detection system 116 comprises a plurality of light emitters disposed at particular locations within the shopping facility 101, such a light sensor can provide information that the control circuit 406 and/or the central computer system 106 employs to determine a present location and/or orientation of the motorized transport unit 102.
As another example, such a sensor 414 can comprise a distance measurement unit configured to detect a distance between the motorized transport unit 102 and one or more objects or surfaces around the motorized transport unit 102 (such as an object that lies in a projected path of movement for the motorized transport unit 102 through the shopping facility 101). These teachings will accommodate any of a variety of distance measurement units including optical units and sound/ultrasound units. In one example, a sensor 414 comprises a laser distance sensor device capable of determining a distance to objects in proximity to the sensor. In some embodiments, a sensor 414 comprises an optical based scanning device to sense and read optical patterns in proximity to the sensor, such as bar codes variously located on structures in the shopping facility 101. In some embodiments, a sensor 414 comprises a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reader capable of reading RFID tags in proximity to the sensor. Such sensors may be useful to determine proximity to nearby objects, avoid collisions, orient the motorized transport unit at a proper alignment orientation to engage a movable item container, and so on.
The foregoing examples are intended to be illustrative and are not intended to convey an exhaustive listing of all possible sensors. Instead, it will be understood that these teachings will

- 13 -accommodate sensing any of a wide variety of circumstances or phenomena to support the operating functionality of the motorized transport unit 102 in a given application setting.
By one optional approach an audio input 416 (such as a microphone) and/or an audio output 418 (such as a speaker) can also operably couple to the control circuit 406.
So configured the control circuit 406 can provide a variety of audible sounds to thereby communicate with a user of the motorized transport unit 102, other persons in the vicinity of the motorized transport unit 102, or even other motorized transport units 102 in the area. These audible sounds can include any of a variety of tones and other non-verbal sounds. These audible sounds can also include, in lieu of the foregoing or in combination therewith, pre-recorded or synthesized speech.
The audio input 416, in turn, provides a mechanism whereby, for example, a user provides verbal input to the control circuit 406. That verbal input can comprise, for example, instructions, inquiries, or information. So configured, a user can provide, for example, a question to the motorized transport unit 102 (such as, "Where are the towels?"). The control circuit 406 can cause that verbalized question to be transmitted to the central computer system 106 via the motorized transport unit's wireless transceiver 412. The central computer system 106 can process that verbal input to recognize the speech content and to then determine an appropriate response. That response might comprise, for example, transmitting back to the motorized transport unit 102 specific instructions regarding how to move the motorized transport unit 102 (via the aforementioned motorized wheel system 410) to the location in the shopping facility 101 where the towels are displayed.
In this example the motorized transport unit 102 includes a rechargeable power source 420 such as one or more batteries. The power provided by the rechargeable power source 420 can be made available to whichever components of the motorized transport unit 102 require electrical energy. By one approach the motorized transport unit 102 includes a plug or other electrically conductive interface that the control circuit 406 can utilize to automatically connect to an external source of electrical energy to thereby recharge the rechargeable power source 420.
By one approach the motorized transport unit 102 comprises an integral part of a movable item container 104 such as a grocery cart. As used herein, this reference to "integral" will be understood to refer to a non-temporary combination and joinder that is sufficiently complete so as to consider the combined elements to be as one. Such a joinder can be facilitated in a number of

- 14 -ways including by securing the motorized transport unit housing 402 to the item container using bolts or other threaded fasteners as versus, for example, a clip.
These teachings will also accommodate selectively and temporarily attaching the motorized transport unit 102 to an item container 104. In such a case the motorized transport unit 102 can include a movable item container coupling structure 422. By one approach this movable item container coupling structure 422 operably couples to a control circuit 202 to thereby pennit the latter to control, for example, the latched and unlatched states of the movable item container coupling structure 422. So configured, by one approach the control circuit 406 can automatically and selectively move the motorized transport unit 102 (via the motorized wheel system 410) towards a particular item container until the movable item container coupling structure 422 can engage the item container to thereby temporarily physically couple the motorized transport unit 102 to the item container. So latched, the motorized transport unit 102 can then cause the item container to move with the motorized transport unit 102. In embodiments such as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-3B, the movable item container coupling structure 422 includes a lifting system (e.g., including an electric drive or motor) to cause a portion of the body or housing 402 to engage and lift a portion of the item container off of the ground such that the motorized transport unit 102 can carry a portion of the item container. In other embodiments, the movable transport unit latches to a portion of the movable item container without lifting a portion thereof off of the ground.
In either case, by combining the motorized transport unit 102 with an item container, and by controlling movement of the motorized transport unit 102 via the aforementioned central computer system 106, these teachings will facilitate a wide variety of useful ways to assist both customers and associates in a shopping facility setting. For example, the motorized transport unit 102 can be configured to follow a particular customer as they shop within the shopping facility 101. The customer can then place items they intend to purchase into the item container that is associated with the motorized transport unit 102.
In some embodiments, the motorized transport unit 102 includes an input/output (I/0) device 424 that is coupled to the control circuit 406. The I/O device 424 allows an external device to couple to the control unit 404. The function and purpose of connecting devices will depend on the application. In some examples, devices connecting to the I/O device 424 may add functionality to the control unit 404, allow the exporting of data from the control unit 404, allow the diagnosing of the motorized transport unit 102, and so on.

- 15 -In some embodiments, the motorized transport unit 102 includes a user interface 426 including for example, user inputs and/or user outputs or displays depending on the intended interaction with the user. For example, user inputs could include any input device such as buttons, knobs, switches, touch sensitive surfaces or display screens, and so on.
Example user outputs include lights, display screens, and so on. The user interface 426 may work together with or separate from any user interface implemented at a user interface unit 114 (such as a smart phone or tablet device).
The control unit 404 includes a memory 408 coupled to the control circuit 406 and that stores, for example, operating instructions and/or useful data. The control circuit 406 can comprise a fixed-purpose hard-wired platform or can comprise a partially or wholly programmable platform.
These architectural options are well known and understood in the art and require no further description here. This control circuit 406 is configured (for example, by using corresponding programming stored in the memory 408 as will be well understood by those skilled in the art) to carry out one or more of the steps, actions, and/or functions described herein. The memory 408 may be integral to the control circuit 406 or can be physically discrete (in whole or in part) from the control circuit 406 as desired. This memory 408 can also be local with respect to the control circuit 406 (where, for example, both share a common circuit board, chassis, power supply, and/or housing) or can be partially or wholly remote with respect to the control circuit 406. This memory 408 can serve, for example, to non-transitorily store the computer instructions that, when executed by the control circuit 406, cause the control circuit 406 to behave as described herein. (As used herein, this reference to "non-transitorily" will be understood to refer to a non-ephemeral state for the stored contents (and hence excludes when the stored contents merely constitute signals or waves) rather than volatility of the storage media itself and hence includes both non-volatile memory (such as read-only memory (ROM) as well as volatile memory (such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM).) It is noted that not all components illustrated in FIG. 4 are included in all embodiments of the motorized transport unit 102. That is, some components may be optional depending on the implementation.
FIG. 5 illustrates a functional block diagram that may generally represent any number of various electronic components of the system 100 that are computer type devices. The computer device 500 includes a control circuit 502, a memory 504, a user interface 506 and an input/output

- 16-(I/O) interface 508 providing any type of wired and/or wireless connectivity to the computer device 500, all coupled to a communication bus 510 to allow data and signaling to pass therebetween.
Generally, the control circuit 502 and the memory 504 may be referred to as a control unit. The control circuit 502, the memory 504, the user interface 506 and the I/O
interface 508 may be any of the devices described herein or as understood in the art. The functionality of the computer device 500 will depend on the programming stored in the memory 504. The computer device 500 may represent a high level diagram for one or more of the central computer system 106, the motorized transport unit 102, the user interface unit 114, the location detection system 116, the user interface computer 128, the MTU docking station 122 and the MTU dispenser 120, or any other device or component in the system that is implemented as a computer device.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES OVERVIEW
Referring generally to FIGS. 1-5, the shopping assistance system 100 may implement one or more of several different features depending on the configuration of the system and its components. The following provides a brief description of several additional features that could be implemented by the system. One or more of these features could also be implemented in other systems separate from embodiments of the system. This is not meant to be an exhaustive description of all features and not meant to be an exhaustive description of the details any one of the features. Further details with regards to one or more features beyond this overview may be provided herein.
Tagalong Steering: This feature allows a given motorized transport unit 102 to lead or follow a user (e.g., a customer and/or a worker) throughout the shopping facility 101. For example, the central computer system 106 uses the location detection system 116 to determine the location of the motorized transport unit 102. For example, LED smart lights (e.g., the ByteLight system) of the location detection system 116 transmit a location number to smart devices which are with the customer (e.g., user interface units 114), and/or on the item container 104/motorized transport unit 102. The central computer system 106 receives the LED location numbers received by the smart devices through the wireless network 124. Using this information, in some embodiments, the central computer system 106 uses a grid placed upon a 2D CAD map and 3D
point cloud model (e.g., from the databases 126) to direct, track, and plot paths for the other devices. Using the grid, the motorized transport unit 102 can drive a movable item container 104 in a straight path rather

- 17 -than zigzagging around the facility. As the user moves from one grid to another, the motorized transport unit 102 drives the container 104 from one grid to the other. In some embodiments, as the user moves towards the motorized transport unit, it stays still until the customer moves beyond an adjoining grid.
Detecting Objects: In some embodiments, motorized transport units 102 detect objects through several sensors mounted on motorized transport unit 102, through independent cameras (e.g., video cameras 118), through sensors of a corresponding movable item container 104, and through communications with the central computer system 106. In some embodiments, with semi-autonomous capabilities, the motorized transport unit 102 will attempt to avoid obstacles, and if unable to avoid, it will notify the central computer system 106 of an exception condition. In some embodiments, using sensors 414 (such as distance measurement units, e.g., laser or other optical-based distance measurement sensors), the motorized transport unit 102 detects obstacles in its path, and will move to avoid, or stop until the obstacle is clear.
Visual Remote Steering: This feature enables movement and/or operation of a motorized transport unit 102 to be controlled by a user on-site, off-site, or anywhere in the world. This is due to the architecture of some embodiments where the central computer system 106 outputs the control signals to the motorized transport unit 102. These controls signals could have originated at any device in communication with the central computer system 106. For example, the movement signals sent to the motorized transport unit 102 may be movement instructions determined by the central computer system 106; commands received at a user interface unit 114 from a user; and commands received at the central computer system 106 from a remote user not located at the shopping facility space.
Determining Location: Similar to that described above, this feature enables the central computer system 106 to determine the location of devices in the shopping facility 101. For example, the central computer system 106 maps received LED light transmissions, Bluetooth low energy radio signals or audio signals (or other received signals encoded with location data) to a 2D map of the shopping facility. Objects within the area of the shopping facility are also mapped and associated with those transmissions. Using this information, the central computer system 106 can determine the location of devices such as motorized transport units.
Digital Physical Map Integration: In some embodiments, the system 100 is capable of integrating 2D and 3D maps of the shopping facility with physical locations of objects and workers.

- 18-Once the central computer system 106 maps all objects to specific locations using algorithms, measurements and LED geo-location, for example, grids are applied which sections off the maps into access ways and blocked sections. Motorized transport units 102 use these grids for navigation and recognition. In some cases, grids are applied to 2D horizontal maps along with 3D models. In some cases, grids start at a higher unit level and then can be broken down into smaller units of measure by the central computer system 106 when needed to provide more accuracy.
Calling a Motorized Transport Unit: This feature provides multiple methods to request and schedule a motorized transport unit 102 for assistance in the shopping facility. In some embodiments, users can request use of a motorized transport unit 102 through the user interface unit 114. The central computer system 106 can check to see if there is an available motorized transport unit. Once assigned to a given user, other users will not be able to control the already assigned transport unit. Workers, such as store associates, may also reserve multiple motorized transport units in order to accomplish a coordinated large job.
Locker Delivery: In some embodiments, one or more motorized transport units 102 may be used to pick, pack, and deliver items to a particular storage locker 132.
The motorized transport units 102 can couple to and move the storage locker to a desired location. In some embodiments, once delivered, the requestor will be notified that the items are ready to be picked up, and will be provided the locker location and locker security code key.
Route Optimization: In some embodiments, the central computer system automatically generates a travel route for one or more motorized transport units through the shopping facility space. In some embodiments, this route is based on one or more of a user provided list of items entered by the user via a user interface unit 114; user selected route preferences entered by the user via the user interface unit 114; user profile data received from a user information database (e.g., from one of databases 126); and product availability information from a retail inventory database (e.g., from one of databases 126). In some cases, the route intends to minimize the time it takes to get through the facility, and in some cases, may route the shopper to the least busy checkout area.
Frequently, there will be multiple possible optimum routes. The route chosen may take the user by things the user is more likely to purchase (in case they forgot something), and away from things they are not likely to buy (to avoid embarrassment). That is, routing a customer through sporting goods, women's lingerie, baby food, or feminine products, who has never purchased such products based on past customer behavior would be non-productive, and potentially embarrassing to the

- 19 -customer. In some cases, a route may be detetiuined from multiple possible routes based on past shopping behavior, e.g., if the customer typically buys a cold Diet Coke product, children's shoes or power tools, this information would be used to add weight to the best alternative routes, and determine the route accordingly.
Store Facing Features: In some embodiments, these features enable functions to support workers in performing store functions. For example, the system can assist workers to know what products and items are on the shelves and which ones need attention. For example, using 3D
scanning and point cloud measurements, the central computer system can determine where products are supposed to be, enabling workers to be alerted to facing or zoning of issues along with potential inventory issues.
Phone Home: This feature allows users in a shopping facility 101 to be able to contact remote users who are not at the shopping facility 101 and include them in the shopping experience.
For example, the user interface unit 114 may allow the user to place a voice call, a video call, or send a text message. With video call capabilities, a remote person can virtually accompany an in-store shopper, visually sharing the shopping experience while seeing and talking with the shopper.
One or more remote shoppers may join the experience.
Returns: In some embodiments, the central computer system 106 can task a motorized transport unit 102 to keep the returns area clear of returned merchandise. For example, the transport unit may be instructed to move a cart from the returns area to a different department or area. Such commands may be initiated from video analytics (the central computer system analyzing camera footage showing a cart full), from an associate command (digital or verbal), or on a schedule, as other priority tasks allow. The motorized transport unit 102 can first bring an empty cart to the returns area, prior to removing a full one.
Bring a Container: One or more motorized transport units can retrieve a movable item container 104 (such as a shopping cart) to use. For example, upon a customer or worker request, the motorized transport unit 102 can re-position one or more item containers 104 from one location to another. In some cases, the system instructs the motorized transport unit where to obtain an empty item container for use. For example, the system can recognize an empty and idle item container that has been abandoned or instruct that one be retrieved from a cart storage area. In some cases, the call to retrieve an item container may be initiated through a call button placed throughout the facility, or through the interface of a user interface unit 114.

- 20 -Respond to Voice Commands: In some cases, control of a given motorized transport unit is implemented through the acceptance of voice commands. For example, the user may speak voice commands to the motorized transport unit 102 itself and/or to the user interface unit 114. In some embodiments, a voice print is used to authorize to use of a motorized transport unit 102 to allow voice commands from single user at a time.
Retrieve Abandoned Item Containers: This feature allows the central computer system to track movement of movable item containers in and around the area of the shopping facility 101, including both the sale floor areas and the back-room areas. For example, using visual recognition through store cameras 118 or through user interface units 114, the central computer system 106 can identify abandoned and out-of-place movable item containers. In some cases, each movable item container has a transmitter or smart device which will send a unique identifier to facilitate tracking or other tasks and its position using LED geo-location identification. Using LED geo-location identification with the Determining Location feature through smart devices on each cart, the central computer system 106 can determine the length of time a movable item container 104 is stationary.
Stocker Assistance: This feature allows the central computer system to track movement of merchandise flow into and around the back-room areas. For example, using visual recognition and captured images, the central computer system 106 can determine if carts are loaded or not for moving merchandise between the back room areas and the sale floor areas. Tasks or alerts may be sent to workers to assign tasks.
Self-Docking: Motorized transport units 102 will run low or out of power when used.
Before this happens, the motorized transport units 102 need to recharge to stay in service.
According to this feature, motorized transport units 102 will self-dock and recharge (e.g., at a MTU
docking station 122) to stay at maximum efficiency, when not in use. When use is completed, the motorized transport unit 102 will return to a docking station 122. In some cases, if the power is running low during use, a replacement motorized transport unit can be assigned to move into position and replace the motorized transport unit with low power. The transition from one unit to the next can be seamless to the user.
Item Container Retrieval: With this feature, the central computer system 106 can cause multiple motorized transport units 102 to retrieve abandoned item containers from exterior areas such as parking lots. For example, multiple motorized transport units are loaded into a movable

- 21 -dispenser, e.g., the motorized transport units are vertically stacked in the dispenser. The dispenser is moved to the exterior area and the transport units are dispensed. Based on video analytics, it is determined which item containers 104 are abandoned and for how long. A
transport unit will attach to an abandoned cart and return it to a storage bay.
Motorized Transport Unit Dispenser: This feature provides the movable dispenser that contains and moves a group of motorized transport units to a given area (e.g., an exterior area such as a parking lot) to be dispensed for use. For example, motorized transport units can be moved to the parking lot to retrieve abandoned item containers 104. In some cases, the interior of the dispenser includes helically wound guide rails that mate with the guide member 208 to allow the motorized transport units to be guided to a position to be dispensed.
Specialized Module Retrieval: This feature allows the system 100 to track movement of merchandise flow into and around the sales floor areas and the back-room areas including special modules that may be needed to move to the sales floor. For example, using video analytics, the system can determine if a modular unit it loaded or empty. Such modular units may house items that are of seasonal or temporary use on the sales floor. For example, when it is raining, it is useful to move a module unit displaying umbrellas from a back room area (or a lesser accessed area of the sales floor) to a desired area of the sales floor area.
Authentication: This feature uses a voice imprint with an attention code/word to authenticate a user to a given motorized transport unit. One motorized transport unit can be swapped for another using this authentication. For example, a token is used during the session with the user. The token is a unique identifier for the session which is dropped once the session is ended. A logical token may be a session id used by the application of the user interface unit 114 to establish the session id when user logs on and when deciding to do use the system 100. In some embodiments, communications throughout the session are encrypted using SSL or other methods at transport level.
FURTHER DETAILS OF SOME EMBODIMENTS
In accordance with some embodiments, further details are now provided for one or more of these and other features. For example, generally speaking, pursuant to various embodiments, systems, apparatuses, processes and methods are provided herein that allow for addressing incorrectly placed items. The central computer system 106 is configured to receive sensor data,

- 22 -and based on the sensor data identify over time items that are incorrectly located and/or misplaced.
Further, the central computer system may categorize and/or identify the items.
Based on the categorization and/or identification, the central computer system can determine how to address these items. In some instances, for example, the central computer system may communicate instructions to cause the item to be retrieved and transported to one of multiple predefined locations. Some embodiments provide systems that utilize a plurality of the motorized transport units 102. As described above, each motorized transport unit is configured to perfoim multiple different tasks at a retail shopping facility. The central computer system 106 is further configured take advantage of these multiple motorized transport units in other ways while the motorized transport units are performing one or more other assigned tasks. In some applications, the central computer system instructs motorized transport units to implement one or more different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility. The motorized transport units can further be instructed to capture data corresponding to conditions surrounding the motorized transport unit while performing these assigned tasks. The central computer system receives this data as input data, analyzes the input data, and detects and categorizes each item of multiple items that are determined to be incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.
Again, the motorized transport units are configured to perform numerous different of tasks, such as but not limited to, moving a movable item container, implement scans of products, detect location information, delivery products, retrieve one or more products, retrieve one or more movable item containers, interface with customers, shelf facing detection, item identification, trash retrieval, other such tasks or combinations of such tasks. Further, the motorized transport units include multiple sensors 414. These sensors may include one or more of distance measurement sensors, cameras, a light sensors, optical based scanning devices, RFID code readers, weight sensor, ultrasonic sensors, temperature sensor, metal detector, three-dimensional scanners, audio sensors, motion sensors, travel distance sensors, inertial sensors, other such sensors, and typically a combination of two or more of such sensors. When active, each of the sensors can capture sensor data. The sensors can be activated by instructions from the central computer system, based on predefined code being implemented by the control circuit 406, or the like. For example, one or more cameras on a motorized transport unit can capture images (e.g., still and/or video images).

- 23 -The sensor data (e.g., images) can be communicated to the central computer system 106, which can store, archive and/or utilize the input data received from the motorized transport units.
In some applications, the central computer system instructs motorized transport units to each implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility.
While the motorized transport units are performing these assigned tasks, each motorized transport unit can capture data corresponding to conditions surrounding the motorized transport unit and communicate that data to the central computer system. For example, the motorized transport unit can capture still and/or video data and communicate that data to the central computer system that can perform or cause an external system to perform image and/or video processing on some or all of the image data.
The central computer system receives the detected data as input data.
Typically, this input data is received over time from the various different motorized transport units as they operate to implement the various tasks assigned over time to the different motorized transport units. Further, input data may be received, in some instances, from other sensors (e.g., shopping facility cameras, shelf sensors, etc.). The central computer system analyzes the input data that was detected and provided (e.g., by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform at least one of the tasks and/or other sensors). Based on the analysis of the input data, the central computer system can, typically over time, detect multiple different items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility. Further, in some instances, the central computer system can categorize each of some or all of the detected incorrectly placed items according to one of multiple different predefined categories.
The central computer system categorizes in accordance with one of multiple different categories. Any number of predefined categorizes can be specified. For example, items may be categorized as merchandize sold by the shopping facility, customer property, a recyclable waste item, a non-recycle waste item, a hazardous or special handling waste item (e.g., battery, cleaning supply, paint, item that contains lead, other such items that may be identified based on regulatory data (e.g., EPA data), or other such items), a spill, shopping facility property (e.g., movable item container, pallet jack, pallet, etc.), or other such categories.
In some embodiments, the predefined categories are used in directing how the detected incorrectly placed items are to be addressrf. For example, a motorized transport unit may be instructed to retrieve the item and take it to one of multiple different predefined locations based on

- 24 -how the item is categorized, a worker at the shopping facility may be alerted to retrieve an item, an item may be left where it is detected, or other such actions. In some instances, the central computer system can determine for each of the detected items, based on the categorization of the items, a location of multiple predefined different potential locations of the retail shopping facility the categorized item is to be taken. An instruction can be communicated, relative to each of the categorized items, to cause the categorized item to be taken to the determined location. The instruction may be communicated to one or more motorized transport units, of the plurality of motorized transport units, to retrieve the item and transport the item through at least a portion of the retail shopping facility to the determined location.
In some instances, the motorized transport unit may include an extendible arm or other such system that can be activated to pick up the item. In other instances, the motorized transport unit may include a scope or lift that can be slide under at least a portion of the item to pick up the item. Similarly, a motorized transport unit may include a brush or plow system that can be used to push the item. Still other motorized transport units may include other mechanisms that can be used to transport an item, and the central computer system may select a motorized transport unit based on the mechanism that the motorized transport unit includes and/or that can be cooperated with a motorized transport unit. In some implementations, the central computer system accesses and/or maintains one or more databases, indexes, arrays, spreadsheets or the like that identify each available motorized transport unit and characteristics and/or functionality that can be performed by each motorized transport unit. Referencing this index, the central computer system can select a motorized transport unit, typically in accordance with a categorization of the detected item and/or an intended location where the item is to be taken.
The motorized transport unit may be activate, and/or be instructed by the central computer system to activate, one or more sensors based on a detection of an item to obtain additional data that can be used to categorize and/or identify the item. Similarly, the motorized transport unit and/or the central computer system may instruct the motorized transport unit to move to a different orientation and/or move around the item in attempts to accurately categorize and/or identify the item. In some instances, the central computer system may detect an item is incorrectly placed, and as part of the categorization the central computer system can communicate one or more instructions to a motorized transport unit to weigh the detected item. For example, an instruction may be issued to cause the motorized transport unit to pick up an item with an extendible arm that is cooperated

- 25 -with a weight sensor to detect a weight of an item, issue an instruction to cause the motorized transport unit to move the item onto a scale (e.g., a scale on the motorized transport unit or a separate scale), or other such actions to determine a weight. The determined weight of the item can be communicated to the central computer system, which can categorize the item based in part on the weight of the item. For example, an item may be a wallet, and in categorizing the wallet as an item being sold by the shopping facility or a customer's wallet, the central computer system can consider the weight (e.g., typically a customer's wallet includes contents that would cause it to weigh more than an empty wallet being sold by the shopping facility).
Similarly, a plastic bottle may be detected and the weight can be used to determine whether it may be a product sold by the shopping facility or a bottle that has already been open and thus not to be sold by the shopping facility (e.g., which may result in categorizing the item as a recyclable item, non-recyclable waste, or the like). Additionally or alternatively, the motorized transport unit may include an ultrasonic sensor that can be used, for example, to determine whether there is something inside an item or whether the item is empty (e.g., whether a water bottle has fluid in it).
As a further example, the central computer system in categorizing items can determine that an item is not a retail item being offered for sale by the retail shopping facility. This determination may be based on failing to identify the item, detecting an identifier of the item and determining that the identifier does not correspond with an item being sold at the shopping facility, identifying the item is consistent with an item sold but that the item is damaged, consumed, partially consumed or the like, identifying that the item is presumed to be owned by a customer, and/or other such determinations. In some instances, the central computer system can determine that an item is presumed to be owned by a customer and accordingly should not be discarded.
Based on this determination, the central computer system may further determine that the item is to be taken to a predefined lost and found location. An instruction can be communicated to a motorized transport unit and/or a worker to retrieve the item and take the item to the lost and found location.
Other sensors may additionally or alternatively be activated to help categorize and/or identify a detected item. For example, a motorized transport unit may include a scanner that can be used to scan an identifier of an item (e.g., a bar code scanner, an RFID
detector, imaging system to capture an image of a bar code, text recognition from an image, etc.).
Accordingly, the central computer system may activate one or more sensors of the motorized transport unit to acquire input data that can be used by the central computer system in categorizing and/or identifying an item.

- 26 -In some embodiments, the central computer system obtains and uses further sensor data from sources other than one or more of the motorized transport units, and can additionally or alternatively use that further sensor data in detecting, categorizing, and/or identifying items. The further sensor data may be obtained from one or more sensors of the shopping facility, fixed cameras at the shopping facility, shelf sensor data (e.g., weight sensor, light detector, etc.), worker input, customer input (e.g., from a customer smart phone), and/or other such sensor data. The further sensor data can be used by the central computer system to detect items that are incorrectly placed, identify items and/or categorize items. For example, the central computer system may receive image data captured by one or more cameras each fixed at a location within the retail shopping facility. The central computer system can perform image processing and/or direct an image processing system to preform image processing of the image data. One or more items can be detected as being incorrectly placed based on the image processing of the image data. In some instances, the central computer system may detect an item based on the further sensor data, and instruct a motorized transport unit to travel to the location of the item and obtain additional sensor data corresponding to the detected item.
The detection of an incorrectly placed item can, in some instances, include determining that an item is not in a place where an item is expected. Often, the central computer system includes a shopping facility mapping, images of multiple portions of the shopping facility, two-dimensional (2D) and/or three-dimensional (3D) scans of some or all of the shopping facility and/or products, and other such information. This mapping and/or scan data can be updated as items are moved and/or products are placed in feature locations (e.g., end caps are added, adjusted, removed, etc.). Image data from the motorized transport units, fixed cameras, customers' smart devices, workers' user interface units, and/or other such imaging data can be image processed and compared to mappings, scans and/or images of what is expected. For example, an item laying in an aisle or walkway can be detected as inconsistent with what is expected (e.g., based on an image comparison with a reference image). Further, the image data may be sufficient to identify the item (e.g., based on text capture, comparison with a reference 3D scan of a product, image comparison with reference images of products, or the like). Additionally and/or alternatively, one or more motorized transport units may be instructed to obtain additional information about the detected incorrectly placed item.

- 27 -As described above and further below, the additional data may include weight information, additional images from one or more different angles, bar code scan, and the like. In some applications, the central computer system receives this information and attempts to identify the item. In those instances where the item is recognized, that item may be associated with a particular category based on the identification. The particular categorization can further take additional input data into consideration. For example, the item may be identified as corresponding to a product sold at the shopping facility, but because of a change of dimensions from reference dimensions of the identified item (e.g., smashed, dented, etc.) and/or based on a weight difference from a reference weight of the identified item, the incorrectly placed item may be designated as waste, and in some instances may further be associated with a sub-category (e.g., recyclable, non-recyclable, hazardous, etc.). For example, a motorized transport unit may be instructed to use an ultrasonic sensor (e.g., determine whether there is something inside the item), a metal detector (e.g., determining whether the object should be categorized as recyclable waste), weight sensor, and/or other such sensors.
In those instances, where the item cannot be identified, the item may be categorized based on an appearance of the item, based on a weight of the item, or other such information. For example, the item may not be recognizable, but can be categorized as waste based on characteristics of the item (e.g., flattened, dirty, crumpled, weight less than a threshold, weight less than a threshold corresponding to dimensions of the item, etc.). The categorization may, in some instances, include identifying the detected item, being unable to identify the item, and/or determining that the item does not correspond to multiple predefined items.
Once categorized, the central computer system can determine how the item is to be addressed. This can include leaving the item where it was identified, transporting the item to a predefined area corresponding to the categorization, or the like. In some instances, for example, the central computer system may contact a shopping facility worker to retrieve the item (e.g., communication to a user interface unit 114 with information specifying where the item is located within the shopping facility, instructions regarding what the worker may need to assist the worker in retrieving the item (e.g., shopping cart, mop, etc.), a priority level, and/or other such information) and transport the item to one of multiple different predefined locations. In other instances, the central computer system may communicate instructions to one or more motorized

-28-transport units to cause the one or more motorized transport units to retrieve the detected item and transport the item to one of multiple different predefined locations.
As introduced above, in other instances, one or more shopping facility workers and/or motorized transport units may be instructed to leave the detected item. The central computer system may determine that a detected incorrectly placed item has not been at a location where the item was detected for more than a threshold period of time, and communicate an instruction to leave the first item at the location. In some embodiments, the central computer system determines whether to even consider leaving the item and/or identifies the threshold period of time based on the categorization of the item. When a threshold period of time is associated with a category or sub-category, the central computer system can confirm that the detected item has been at the location for the threshold period of time before instructing that the item be retrieved.
Similarly, the central computer system may consider other factors in determining whether an item is to be retrieved, whether to leave the item, or take other action.
For example, the central computer system may determine that a movable item container is within a threshold distance of the item, that a customer is within a threshold distance of the item, whether a shopping facility worker is within a threshold distance of the item, whether one or more shopping facility workers are working or are scheduled to be working within a threshold distance of the item, whether a worker was at or within a threshold distance of the location within a threshold time period before detecting the item (e.g., because the worker may have placed the item at the location), whether a notification is received that the item is intended to be at the location, and/or other such factors. In some instances, for example, the central computer system may receive sensor data and/or additional sensor data and identify based on the additional sensor data that a customer is within a first threshold distance of the detected incorrectly placed item. The central computer system can communicate an instruction, based on the categorization of the first item and when the customer is within the first threshold distance of the first item, instructing that the item is to be left at a location where the item is detected. The central computer system can continue to track the input data relative to the detected item and subsequently issue other commands based on changes of conditions (e.g., the customer moves beyond the threshold distance, the item is at the location for more than a threshold time, etc.).
Similarly, in some instances, the central computer system, upon detecting that a customer is at the location, may instruct a motorized transport unit to approach the customer to ask whether

- 29 -the item belongs to the customer. The inquiry may be through an audio communication, an audible alert with displayed text, other such communication, or combination of two or more of such communications. In some instances, the customer may be known (e.g., based on detecting the customer's user interface unit, facial recognition, customer registering upon entering the shopping facility, a motorized transport unit associated with the customer, etc.), and the central computer system may directly communicate with the customer's user interface unit and/or a motorized transport unit associated with the customer. As another example, the central computer system may use additional sensor data to detect that a worker is within a threshold distance of the item, and the central computer system may communicate with the worker (e.g., a user interface unit 114, a motorized transport unit, etc.) to ask the worker whether the item should be left or retrieved.
FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified flow diagram of an exemplary process 600 of addressing and/or categorizing incorrectly placed items, in accordance with some embodiments. In step 602, motorized transport units are tasked by the central computer system to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility. Again, the motorized transport units are configured to implement numerous different tasks, and the central computer system can communicate commands to cause one or more of the motorized transport units to complete the task. For example, identified items may be categorized, in some instances, as one of merchandize sold by the shopping facility, customer property, a recyclable waste item, non-recyclable waste, hazardous waste, unknown item, worker property, product being stocked, other such categories, and in some instances a combination of two or more of such categories.
In step 604, the central computer system receives and analyzes input data detected and provided by at least one or more of the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the one or more tasks. In step 606, the central computer system detects and categorizes each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.
In some instances, the process determines whether an action should be taken regarding the categorized item. As described above, in some instances the central computer system may not take action and/or may not direct an action to be performed (e.g., a customer is within a threshold distance, a worker is within a threshold distance, work is scheduled to be performed and/or is being performed within a threshold distance of the item, and other such conditions).
In many instances, however, the central computer system will associate the detected item with a category, and based

- 30 -on that categorization cause one or more actions to be implemented. For example, the central computer system may determine for each detected and categorized item that an item is to be transported to one of multiple predefined different potential locations of the retail shopping facility based on the categorization of the item. One or more instructions can be communicated, relative to each of the categorized items, to cause the categorized item to be taken to the corresponding determined location. This communication may include, for example, one or more instructions communicated to a motorized transport unit, one or more instructions communicated to a user interface unit of a worker, communicated to a display system that displays the instruction that would be visible to one or more workers, other such communication, or combination of such communication. For example, one or more instructions can be communicated to a motorized transport unit to retrieve the item and transport the item through at least a portion of the retail shopping facility to the determined location.
Some embodiments, in categorizing an item, determines that a detected item is not a retail item being offered for sale by the retail shopping facility, and further determine that the item is presumed to be owned by a customer and should not be discarded. Based on this categorization, the central computer system may in some instances determine that the item is to be taken to a lost and found location.
Additional sensor data may be evaluated by the central computer system and/or other processing circuitry in at least categorizing detected items. In some instances, for example, the central computer system receives image data captured by at least one camera fixed at a location within the retail shopping facility. The central computer system can cause image processing of the image data and detect, based on the image processing, that an item is incorrectly placed. Other sensor data may be obtained, such as weight, ultrasound, text capture, RFID
data, bar code data, and/or other such information. In some implementations, the central computer system activates one or more systems to capture sensor data. For example, the central computer system may communicate instructions to a motorized transport unit to pick up and weigh a detected item. A
communication can be received from the motorized transport unit specifying a weight of the item.
The central computer system can use this weight information in categorizing the item (e.g., comparison with one or more reference weights that are associated with one or more products).
For example, the central computer system may determine that the item corresponds to a specific known product sold by the shopping facility, and can determine whether the item should be

-31 -considered waste based on a difference between a reference weight of the known product and the detected weight. The weight may be provided by a weight sensor on the motorized transport unit, a scale on which a motorized transport unit or worker place an item, or other such source.
Further, in some instances, it may be determined that a detected item has not been at a location where the item was detected for more than a threshold period of time.
Accordingly, instructions can be communicated to leave the first item at the location based on the categorization of the item and in response to determining that the first item has not been at the location where it was detected for more than the threshold period of time. Similarly, the central computer system may receive additional sensor data and identify, based on the additional sensor data, that a customer is within a threshold distance of an item determined to be incorrectly placed. One or more instructions can be communicated, based on the categorization of the item and when the customer is within the threshold distance of the item, instructing that the first item is to be left at a location where the first item is detected.
Shopping facility workers frequently see items that are in incorrect locations. Sometimes workers may retrieve and route these items to appropriate locations. Workers, however, are unable to look all the time, take the time to assess items customers may or may not properly handle, so incorrect items are placed on shelves, left to clutter spaces, or incorrectly disposed. These incorrectly or abandoned items potentially reduce sales, add to shrink, result in personal losses, and other adverse results. Some embodiments, in part, take advantage of the motorized transport units that travel through shopping facilities while performing other assigned tasks to obtain sensor data that can be used to detect items that may be incorrect locations. Further sensor data from other sources (e.g., fixed cameras, sensor data from fixed sensors (e.g., RFID
sensor, shelf sensor systems, etc.), sensor data from customer and/or worker user interface units, other such sensor data, and often a combination of two or more of such sensor data). Using this sensor data, the central computer system is configured to detect items that are in unexpected and/or incorrect locations (e.g., placed on an incorrect shelf, lying on the floor, etc.). For example, sensor data may be obtained from a motorized transport unit while performing a cleaning task, while changing trash bins, items potentially identified as obstacles while assisting a customer, and other such tasks. The central computer system can obtain the sensor data, evaluate the sensor data to try to categorize, classify and/or identify items, and determine appropriately handling of these items (e.g., having the item returned to an intended shelf, having the item placed in a recycle bin, having the item

- 32 -placed in a waste bin, having the item delivered to a lost and found location, and other such actions).
Some embodiments can categorize and/or identify items using one or more types of sensor data even when the item is mislabeled, poorly labeled, missing bar codes.
Often such automated categorization is more precise than would be achieved when relying on shopping facility workers alone. The central computer system typically accesses and evaluates sensor data and/or determined characteristics relative to multiple database sources of various characteristics, images, data, and the like. Accordingly, the central computer system is able to improve accuracy of handling of incorrectly placed items and/or reduce subjectivity regarding how items are handled.
Further, the accurate categorization and/or identification of misplaced items improves consistency of pricing, enables items to be checked more often, and can have items mislabeled or misplaced routed to intended shelves, routed to a predefined returns location (e.g., for re-labeling and re-stocking, etc.), routed to a proper disposal location, and the like. The central computer system can further categorize items that are not for resale by the shopping facility, by in part distinguishes items for sale from items not for sale, and cause items not for sale to be removed from the sales floor. Some embodiments further provide for better compliance by, in part, identifying expired, recalled, damaged goods. Further, the identification and handling of incorrectly placed items can improved quality of service by, in part, continuously categorizing and/or identifying unknown items, having motorized transport units multitasking, which can achieve a level of service that typically is not possible through workers alone, due in part to time limitations, lack of information, and the like.
In some embodiments, the central computer system collects sensor information, evaluates the sensor information in sorting detected items, and causes one or more actions to be performed to handle the identified incorrectly placed items or objects. The collection of sensor data can include sensor data from one or more motorized transport units, which can obtain the sensor data while performing other tasks and/or while being directed to move through the shopping facility with the task of detecting items that may be incorrectly placed. Further, sensor data may be obtained sensors of the shopping facilities (e.g., RFID sensors, light sensors, cameras, shelf sensors, trash can sensor, waste processing sensors, and/or other such sensors). Similarly, sensor data may be received from workers (e.g., accessing a specific worker interface of a computer system, a worker user interface unit, etc.), customers, other sources, or combination of two or more

- 33 -of such sources. In some implementations, a sort processing provides for categorization, identification, determination of how to handle an item, storage, and/or other such functions.
Collection processing may, in part, determine whether an item is to be picked up or left alone.
Additionally or alternatively, a handling process may issue instructions to cause items to be addressed (e.g., determine whether an item is to be retained or disposed). In retaining an item, the item can be returned to a customer or reclaimed by the shopping facility. For example, items to be disposed of are typically categorized as recycle, trash or other category and/or sub-category (e.g., compose waste, trash, hazardous, etc.).
Some embodiments implement a sorting process that, in part, includes the categorization and/or identification of items. The sensor data is evaluated relative to known data, such as, but not limited to, an item database, index or the like that maintains information about different potential items that may be identified, imaging database that maintains image information corresponding to known items, other such databases, or combination of two or more of such databases. These databases may be part of the central computer system, separate from the central computer system and maintained by the shopping facility, a parent entity of the shopping facility (e.g., corporation of a chain of shopping facilities), and/or third party services (e.g., manufacturers, distributors, vendors, governmental agencies (e.g., environmental protection agency, city recycle services, etc.)).
The sensor data may be acquired while a motorized transport unit is performing other tasks or specifically collecting sensor data that can be used to detect potential items. In some instances, a potential item may be scanned and/or other sensors activated to obtain relevant data. For example, a motorized transport unit may include a weight scale sensors to obtain weight information. A bar code scanner and/or RFID sensor can be used to obtain identifying information about an item. Some embodiments use different sensor data to confirm and/or further narrow potential categorization and/or identification (e.g., a weight of an item can be compared with known weight associated with a bar code detected to evaluate completeness of the item). The weight sensor may determine weight by the amount of pull force it takes to pick up the object by a robotic arm, which may be grasping the item using, for example, a robotic clamp, fingers or the like. A metal detector and/or magnetic field can provide information to evaluate whether an item may have some metal recycling value. Optical sensors (e.g., lasers, infrared, opacity, color, etc.) may be utilized to aid in identifying size and classifying item. Some embodiments may activate

- 34 -2D and/or 3D cameras for visual image recognition (e.g., models, shapes, dimensions, etc.) to detennine size and whether the sensor data matches models and images currently stored. Again, a bar code readers (e.g., visible, invisible ink scanner, etc.) can provide quick assessment of item identity. Some embodiments implement image processing to compare patterns, shapes, and the like on an item. Further, text recognition (e.g., optical character recognition, etc.) to assist in identification and classification of items (e.g., paper cup verses jar of jam). Ultrasonic density scans may be used to assess value of an object and categorize the object (e.g., categorize as product sold and to be returned to a shelf, customer object and taken to lost and found, waste (e.g., recycle, trash, compost, hazardous, etc.), and the like.
In some applications, the item categorization includes a comparison with other known object specifications, models, consistency, and the like. The comparison can, in some instances, evaluate matching based upon highest probability of a match. The categorizing of an item can be based upon the probability of a match. In some instances, an item cannot be categorized and/or a probability of a match to a category is below a threshold, and the item can be categorized as an unknown object. Such a categorization can later be changed by a worker, or left as unknown for further processing. In some instances, the central computer system may obtain one or more images and/or video of an item and communicate the image and/or video to one or more workers for further consideration, categorization and/or identification. The worker may respond with a categorization or identification of the object, which may include a bar code, RFID information, or other identifying information.
The central computer system further identifies, based on the identification and/or categorization how the item is to be addressed. In part, the determination of how to handle an item can depend on whether the item is a product being sold by the shopping facility. In some instances, merchandise may be detected and/or recognized based on a scanning of a barcode, optical analysis, comparison to 2D and/or 3D models on file, text recognition, etc. Similarly, an item may be categorized as waste or trash when it cannot be recognized as merchandise, when it is recognized as waste (e.g., empty plastic bottles, cups, crinkled paper, smaller items, shape of a recognized item does match 3D models, text, or other criteria on file. Items can be categorized as potential lost and found items, such as merchandise-like items that failed to match criteria to be confirmed as merchandise, item correspond or match 2D or 3D models or other criteria but do not match within a threshold to be confirmed that it is store merchandise, items matching merchandise but

- 35 -=
the weight does not match or metal can be detected inside, and the like.
Routing and/or handling of items is typically dependent on the categorization of the item. For example, an item may be categorized as a movable item container and routed to a staging area near an entrance of the shopping facility, and items recognized as owned by the shopping facility (e.g., equipment, tools, etc.) can be routed to an equipment handling location, items that merchandise and sold by the shopping facility may be returned to an intended location (e.g., transported by a worker, motorized transport unit, etc.) and/or routed to a returns location for further processing. Similarly, items categorized as potentially customer property may be routed to a lost and found location, while items identified as waste may be routed to a recycling location (e.g., if determined to have no other value), a composting location, a hazardous waste handling location, a general waste location for further processing, or the like Some embodiments may determine an item is and unknown object, but may further deteiiiiine whether the item may have some value (e.g., recycle value, composting value, potential customer value, etc.). In some instances, such unknown categorized items may be routed to a particular worker, one of one or more predefined bins, or the like that allow a worker to inspect and determine how the item is to be handled (e.g., reviewed to see whether it should be routed to lost and found, recycle bins, waste bin, etc.). Sensor data may be considered in determine which of multiple unknown locations/bins an item should be placed. For example, when metal is detected, it may be recognized as a can and staged for recycling, while other items may be potential customer property (e.g., metal keys) are placed in a customer property review bin. In some instances, a recycle indicator or symbol may be detected providing guidance regarding how an item is to be recycled. Similarly, in some instances, plastic bottles may be assumed to be recyclable, but other types of plastic may need further review to be reviewed.
Some paper items (e.g., napkins, paper plates, newspapers) can be placed in recycling bins.
When an item is determined to contain a potential combination of materials, it may be categorized accordingly further evaluation by a worker performed (e.g., capturing an image or video, sending the captured image or video to a worker, staging in an evaluation location, and letting the worker identify the item). Items identified as not having value can be placed in a bin for disposal.
Some embodiments implement collection processes to identify how an item is to be addressed and/or how an item is retrieved. Unexpected item identification may occur by video analytics, by customers bringing objects to a motorized transport unit or worker, through 2D and/or

- 36 -3D scanning of shelves, image processing and the like. The central computer system, in some instances, may determine an item is to be left alone (e.g., for a threshold period of time), which may depend on how long an object is in place. Once an object is detected as unexpectedly being in a location, a threshold of time may be considered in some instances before issuing instructions to cause the item to be retrieved. The threshold time may be set by a worker, and can be different depending on the area of store, categorization, type of object (providing it can be identified), whether a customer and/or movable item container is within a threshold distance from the item, whether a worker is within a threshold distance, a time of day or night, other such factors, or a combination of two or more of such factors. When the item is to be retrieved (e.g., after a threshold time), an instruction can be communicated to a motorized transport unit, a worker's user interface unit, or the like. Further, in some instances where the motorized transport unit is unable to retrieve the item (e.g., due to size, consistency, threshold number of failed attempts, etc.), a subsequent instruction can be communicated to a worker with location information and/or directions through the shopping facility to the item.
Again, based on the categorization and/or identification of the item, the central computer system can determine how an item is to be handled. For example, items identified as customer's property can be directed to a lost and found location, with instructions communicated to a motorized transport unit and/or worker to transport the item. Some embodiments maintain a lost and found database and/or virtual lost and found that may be electronically accessed by a worker and/or customers to determine whether an item was found. The database may obtain information about the item (e.g., an identification, categorization, etc.), where the item was found, when the item was found, when the item was placed into lost and found, and/or other such information.
Further, in some instances, one or more images, scans, and/or video of the item may be maintained in the database and/or references in the database (e.g., link to access a separate memory storage and/or database). In some instances, a motorized transport unit and/or the central computer system may keep track of one or more items detected that appear to be something that may be of value to a customer. Similarly, workers that find items may give the items to a motorized transport unit.
The central computer system and/or the lost and found database may keep track of the length of time that an item has been in the lost-and-found, and properly dispose of it after a reasonable amount of time. In some embodiments, the central computer system and/or the motorized transport units may have access to the lost and found database (e.g., listing, images,

-37-=
etc.). The central computer system and/or the motorized transport units can access the database in response to a customer request and the motorized transport unit may display information to a customer regarding found items. Similarly, the customer may be allowed to enter information through the user interface of the motorized transport unit with details about an item the customer believes they lost at the store (e.g., approximate time of loss, type of item, color(s), size, model information, other characteristics). The central computer system and/or the motorized transport unit can implement a search through the lost and found database using the information to try and identify the item in the lost and found. Workers may refer customers who have lost something to pose questions to a motorized transport unit. In some instances, a motorized transport unit and/or a worker can be instructed to deliver a lost item to the customer who has lost them, by using the customer's user interface unit to locate the customer. Further, some items that are determined to be customer items, may be given higher priority. For example, the central computer system may apply a higher priority to found wallets, keys, smartphones, or the like.
Customer service may also be immediately alerted in case this customer is still in the store. Other less important items (e.g., misplaced merchandise, trash, etc.), may be collected in a bin, and sorted through later as time permits. Similarly, the central computer system may be directed to identify and/or categorize an item that the shopping facility is willing and/or legally bound to accept (e.g., supporting the European WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive) where a retailer is legally bound to take back end of life electronic), and can categorize the item based on an identification and/or categorization of the product and how to dispose of it.
In some embodiments, exemplary systems and methods are described herein useful to detect and address incorrectly and/or misplaced items. In some embodiments, a system comprises:
a plurality of motorized transport units that are each configured to perform multiple different tasks at a retail shopping facility; and a central computer system configured to instruct various ones of the plurality of motorized transport units to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility, receive and analyze input data detected and provided by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the at least one of the tasks, and detect and categorize each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.
Further, some embodiments provide methods to address incorrectly placed items, comprising: by a central computer system for a retail shopping facility:
tasking various ones of a

- 38 -plurality of motorized transport units to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility; receiving and analyzing input data detected and provided by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the at least one of the tasks; detecting and categorizing each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the inventive concept.

- 39 -

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system to address incorrectly placed items, comprising:
a plurality of motorized transport units that are each configured to perform multiple different tasks at a retail shopping facility; and a central computer system configured to instruct various ones of the plurality of motorized transport units to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility, receive and analyze input data detected and provided by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the at least one of the tasks, and detect and categorize each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system in categorizing the items is further configured to:
categorize at least some of the items as one of merchandize sold by the shopping facility, customer property, and a recyclable waste item.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system is further configured to:
determine for each of the items, based on the categorization of the items, a location of multiple predefined different potential locations of the retail shopping facility the categorized item is to be taken; and communicate an instruction, relative to each of the categorized items, to cause the categorized item to be taken to the determined location.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the central computer system in communicating the instruction communicates the instruction to a first motorized transport unit, of the plurality of motorized transport units, to retrieve the item and transport the item through at least a portion of the retail shopping facility to the determined location.

5. The system of claim 3, wherein the central computer system in categorizing each of the multiple items determines that a first item is not a retail item being offered for sale by the retail shopping facility, and further determines that the first item is presumed to be owned by a customer and should not be discarded; and the central computer system, in determining the location, determines that the first item is to be taken to a lost and found location.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system is further configured to receive image data captured by at least one camera fixed at a first location within the retail shopping facility, cause image processing of the image data, and detect at least a first item is incorrectly placed based on the image processing of the image data.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system in categorizing a first item communicates instructions to a first motorized transport unit to pick up the first item and communicate a weight of the first item to the central computer system, and categorizes the first item based on the weight of the first item.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system is further configured to determine that a first item has not been at a location where the first item was detected for more than a threshold period of time, and communicate an instruction, based on the categorization of the first item and in response to determining that the first item has not been at the location where the first item was detected for more than the threshold period of time, to leave the first item at the location.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the central computer system is further configured to receive additional sensor data, identify based on the additional sensor data that a customer is within a first threshold distance of a first item; and communicate an instruction, based on the categorization of the first item and when the customer is within the first threshold distance of the first item, instructing that the first item is to be left at a location where the first item is detected.

10. A method to address incorrectly placed items, comprising:
by a central computer system for a retail shopping facility:
tasking various ones of a plurality of motorized transport units to implement at least one of the multiple different tasks relative to the retail shopping facility;
receiving and analyzing input data detected and provided by the motorized transport units while the motorized transport units perform the at least one of the tasks;
detecting and categorizing each item of multiple items that are incorrectly placed within the retail shopping facility according to one of multiple different predefined categories.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the categorizing the items comprises categorizing at least some of the items as one of merchandize sold by the shopping facility, customer property, and a recyclable waste item.

12. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
determining for each of the items, based on the categorization of the items, a location of multiple predefined different potential locations of the retail shopping facility the categorized item is to be taken; and communicating an instruction, relative to each of the categorized items, to cause the categorized item to be taken to the determined location.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the communicating the instruction comprises communicating the instruction to a first motorized transport unit, of the plurality of motorized transport units, to retrieve the item and transport the item through at least a portion of the retail shopping facility to the determined location.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the categorizing each of the multiple items comprises:
determining that a first item is not a retail item being offered for sale by the retail shopping facility and determining that the first item is presumed to be owned by a customer and should not be discarded; and wherein the determining the location comprises determining that the first item is to be taken to a lost and found location.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
receiving image data captured by at least one camera fixed at a first location within the retail shopping facility and cause image processing of the image data; and detecting at least a first item is incorrectly placed based on the image processing of the image data.

16. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
communicating instructions to a first motorized transport unit to pick up and weigh a first item of the multiple items;
receiving a communication from the first motorized transport unit a weight of the first item;
wherein the categorizing each of the items comprises categorizing the first item based on the weight of the first item.

17. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
determining that a first item has not been at a location where the first item was detected for more than a threshold period of time; and communicating an instruction, based on the categorization of the first item and in response to determining that the first item has not been at the location where the first item was detected for more than the threshold period of time, to leave the first item at the location.

18. The method of claim 10, further comprising:
receiving additional sensor data;
identifying based on the additional sensor data that a customer is within a first threshold distance of a first item; and communicating an instruction, based on the categorization of the first item and when the customer is within the first threshold distance of the first item, instructing that the first item is to be left at a location where the first item is detected.