JP2012518818A - Infrared electronic merchandise monitoring system with dynamic passcode protection function - Google Patents

Abstract

  An electronic merchandise monitoring system utilizing infrared communication has been disclosed in which additional security is obtained using a dynamic passcode protection function. The system includes a tag, a release device, a base control system, and possibly one or more remote management stations. The tag, base station, remote station, and release device are each machine-readable coded to execute a precision clock generator, a microprocessor, an infrared communication function, and an algorithm for generating multiple passcodes. With instructions. At a specific time, each active tag has a changeable passcode. The base station further includes an infrared communication function having an infrared communication path between each tag and each base station, and information exchange between each tag and each base station is enabled by this path. Each tag replaces the passcode at a specified time interval or at a specified time.

Description

Explanation of related applications

  This application claims the priority of US provisional application 61/030932 filed February 22, 2008 and US provisional application 61/030929 filed February 22, 2008, and the teachings in these provisional application specifications Is incorporated herein by reference.

  TECHNICAL FIELD This application relates generally to electronic merchandise surveillance (EAS) systems, and more specifically, using a tag and a release device, featuring infrared communication for release and alarm, and a dynamic time series passcode. The present invention relates to an EAS system characterized by a change and unauthorized operation prevention function.

  Electronic merchandise monitoring systems have been used for many years as a means of preventing retail shoplifting in clothing stores, electronics stores, and a variety of other retail stores. In general, an EAS system first has a tag composed of sensor tags that are durable, reliable and small. The sensor tag is attached to the product to be detected in such a way that the customer cannot easily remove it in the store. Typically, this system relies on the feature that the attachment mechanism is configured so that it can only be removed at the retail store cash register or exit using special equipment that is owned only by the store clerk. If the EAS tag is not removed from the protected product before leaving the store, an alarm or other signal is activated.

  In many commercially available EAS systems, one or more antennas are placed at the outlet and entrance of the retail store. Such antennas often set up an area called the query area where EAS tags (or markers) are detected. At least one antenna has a function of transmitting a so-called inquiry signal. The marker on the product is affected by this signal and responds with its own signal. The same antenna that transmitted the interrogation signal or even another antenna detects the signal from the marker. The most effective way to do this is to stop sending the interrogation signal to hear the transmission signal from the marker. When a marker is detected within the area formed by the antenna, it is assumed that the product is being taken out without being purchased, and an alarm is issued. Such an alarm may be an audible alarm for general broadcasting, or a lightless silent alarm at a cash register or a security station.

  In order to make an EAS system effective, a method for preventing unauthorized operation of the EAS tag must be considered. This is an ongoing effort. This is because the thief learns the EAS tag manipulation method more skillfully over time in order to capture the EAS tag. Retailers (and tag manufacturers) must consider ways to detect and prevent unauthorized manipulation of tags. An illegal operation detection method is determined by a specific tag configuration.

  While various attachment mechanisms are available in the prior art, one of the more common and good attachment mechanisms is the EAS rigid tag. The EAS hard tag includes a tack, and the tack is used to physically attach the product to be protected to the EAS tag base. The tag base is typically made of durable hard plastic and is typically about 3 inches in length. The tag has a function as a housing for the electronic signal generating means fixed in the housing, and is designed not to be affected by unauthorized operation. A cap on the tack maintains the attachment of the tag to the product.

  Other tags or transponders use a strap-like configuration. One end of the strap is fixed in the transponder and the other end can be inserted into the opening of the transponder where it is held by the transponder. Although it is possible to insert the strap through the opening of the product to be protected, it is also possible to wrap the strap around the product at a position where it does not easily slide off from the product. The strap is usually very difficult to break or cut, but is made of a material that can be easily bent at a predetermined location.

  As a general device for detachably holding the tack shaft and the end of the strap, there is a ball clutch mechanism. The ball clutch mechanism is configured to be able to remove a held product after applying a strong magnetic force. In addition, clips and clamps can be used. Other types of tags use ink vials that break when the tag is physically folded, which can eliminate the benefits of theft attempts.

  While EAS systems have been used effectively for many years, retail sites are a challenge for the thieves who are becoming more sophisticated. For example, a clever thief may learn how to bring a strong magnet similar to the magnet used to remove a tag at a cash register into the store to disable the ball clutch mechanism. A clever thief may use a device designed to determine the unlocking device or tag algorithm to interfere with the operation of the tag. A clever thief may also have a means to determine the system passcode by espionage or by breaking the electronic security code. Furthermore, there is a possibility that a large amount of theft (or inventory reduction) may result from “internal crime” by an unscrupulous employee who has access to a passcode or the like. Accordingly, there is a need in the market for a dynamic EAS system that can quickly and randomly change key pass code coding and the like. Thus, the need for dynamically changeable EAS systems and methods for EAS systems has become clear in order to deter clever theft attempts. In addition, the need for EAS technology based on infrared technology has been demonstrated in order to make real-time code changes economically feasible. Thus, this application discloses systems and methods that achieve these and other objectives.

  The present application generally discloses an electronic merchandise monitoring system that utilizes infrared technology to protect retail merchandise. This system, by utilizing infrared technology, affects systems that can easily change the time-series passcode encoding to ensure more secure security and reduce the possibility of system crises. .

  In one embodiment, the electronic merchandise monitoring system includes at least one tag. Each tag includes a high precision clock generator, a microprocessor, infrared communication functions, and machine readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for generating multiple passcodes. At a specific time, each active tag has a passcode. In at least one embodiment, all tags in any location or neighborhood always have the same variable passcode. The EAS system is characterized by at least one base station, each base station having a precision clock generator, a processor, and machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm that generates multiple passcodes. It has. The base station further includes an infrared communication function having an infrared communication path between each tag and each base station. By this route, information can be exchanged between each tag and each base station. Each tag replaces the passcode at a specified time interval or at a specified time.

  In another embodiment, an electronic merchandise monitoring system includes a precision clock generator, a microprocessor, infrared communication means, and machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for multiple passcode generation. At least one tag, wherein each active tag owns a passcode at a particular time; a high precision clock generator, a processor, and a number of passcode generations At least one base station comprising machine-readable instructions encoded to execute an algorithm for; at least one remote station for remotely detecting information and programming further information; Infrared communication path between each base station and each remote station Te, and an infrared communication path that enables the exchange of information between each tag and each base station, each tag replaces the passcode when specified.

  Those skilled in the art will understand how to incorporate the improvements described herein into a conventional EAS system.

  Further utility and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reference to the following drawings, which illustrate some of the main features of the preferred embodiments.

The block diagram which shows the main members of embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows three main members which communicate by the infrared signal transmission of embodiment of this invention. Detailed drawing of the desorption apparatus module of embodiment of this invention. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary configuration of an embodiment release device module in an exemplary retail cash register. FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an EAS hard tag having an infrared communication function according to an embodiment of the present invention. The another external view of the EAS hard tag which has the infrared communication function which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The disassembled perspective view of the internal member of the EAS hard tag which has the infrared communication function which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 1 is a detailed perspective view of an EAS strap tag having an infrared communication function according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a detailed top view of an EAS strap tag having an infrared communication function according to an embodiment of the present invention. The detailed bottom view of the EAS strap tag which has the infrared communication function which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The inside view of an EAS strap tag which has an infrared communication function concerning an embodiment of the present invention.

  With reference to FIG. 1, an embodiment of the present invention including an electronic merchandise monitoring (EAS) system 10 is disclosed. The system 10 typically comprises at least one tag 12 attached to the commodity A, at least one base station 14 and at least one remote station 16.

  In the preferred embodiment, each system 10 includes means for establishing an infrared (IR) communication path 120 shared between each tag 12, each base station 14, and each remote station 16, and a precision clock. A generator 122, a microprocessor 124, an algorithm 126 for generating a passcode, an infrared sensor 125, and means for attaching the tag 12 to a product are provided. Each tag 12 is automatically assigned a default passcode 128 at the time of manufacture.

  It is further envisioned that each tag 12 generates a signal 130 that can be detected by an interrogation unit that is interoperable with an existing EAS system. Most commercially available EAS systems operate at a frequency of 58 kHz, but other configurations are possible and the invention is not limited to any particular frequency. This signal can be generated by a known method, for example, a resonance device or a ferrite coil located in a tag or a transponder which is a typical example of a conventional electronic merchandise monitoring marker.

  In some embodiments, and as further illustrated in FIG. 1, each tag 12 is (a) a signal generated by an EAS antenna system at a retail outlet in the case of shoplifting, (b) tampering of the tag 12, or ( c) It is also envisaged to have a self-contained alarm device 132 that can be activated by removal of the tag from the product to which the tag is attached by a desorption device that is not compatible with the IR system. Furthermore, the EAS antenna that generates the query area can also issue an alarm as in the conventional use of the EAS system.

  Each base station 14 has a high-accuracy clock generator 142, a microprocessor 144, a passcode generation algorithm 146, a tag erasing function 148, a USB port for the function component 150, and an infrared communication path 120. It has a communication function. In one embodiment, the base station 14 can execute software that can perform database functions for tag passcode tracking, operate the desorption device, and configure the tag 12 and remote station 16. It is usually operable at the level of a typical PC running a dedicated application.

  Each remote station 16 includes a high precision clock generator 162, a microprocessor 164, and an algorithm 166 for passcode generation.

  In addition to infrared communication between the tag and the base station 14 and the remote station 16, it is important that this system facilitates communication between the tag 12 and the detacher unit 34. This is shown in more detail in FIG. FIG. 2 shows IR communication means 120 that communicates between the tag 12, the detachment device 34, and the base station 14. In this figure, the base station is shown as a stand-alone computer. This is one possible embodiment and other configurations for the base station 14 are possible. Those skilled in the art will understand how to utilize a wide variety of conventional microprocessor technologies to accomplish the functions of the base station. In one embodiment, base station 14 and desorption device 34 are integrated into one device to utilize the same clock generator 142, algorithm 146 for passcode generation, and tag erasure function 148. You can also. Similarly, in other embodiments, the detacher unit 34 may be separate from the base station 14, but in this case, the detacher unit 34 may have its own synchronization clock and passcode generation. It is necessary to have a device algorithm and a tag erasing function.

  In one embodiment, IR communication means 120 provides communication between each tag 12 and each base station 14, remote station 16, desorption device 34. By the communication means 120, the base station 14, the remote station 16, and the detaching device 34 can read information from each tag 12, and can transmit and write information. By way of the path 120, each tag 12, base station 14, remote station 16, detacher 34 is effective in the cooperative relationship between the high-precision clock generator 122 and the pass code 128 and the algorithm 126 that generates the pass code 128. It becomes possible to communicate with. In this way, the path 120 facilitates the exchange of information important for the activation, resetting and release of each tag 12.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the high precision clock generator 122 of the tag 12 includes a high precision clock generator 142 (associated with the base station 14) and a high precision clock generator 162 (associated with the remote station 16). Operates synchronously with one or all. Generator 122 and generators 142 and / or 162 cooperate and synchronize so that each member accurately detects the same clock time. If the detacher has its own high-accuracy clock generator separate from the base station, its synchronization characteristics also apply to that clock. The pass code 128 of each tag 12 is periodically modified or changed by the algorithm 126 at a specified time interval (for example, every 30 minutes). Thus, each tag 12 may be programmed such that the algorithm 126 modifies or changes the passcode 128, for example, every 30 minutes, thereby minimizing the chance of product theft by passcode manipulation or bypass. To the limit. In this way, the base station 14, the remote station 16, and the detaching device 34 detect the pass code 128 of each tag 12 by the high-accuracy clock generating devices 122, 142, 162 and the detaching device clock generating device. If necessary or desirable, the passcode 128 can be modified or changed during interaction, or the passcode can be completely erased to temporarily disable the tag 12.

  Each base station 14 can provide at least two desirable functions. First, the parameters of the existing tag 12 can be reset, such as the high precision clock generator, the microprocessor, the parameters previously entered for the passcode. The passcode can be modified or changed to a passcode or a series of codes given to a store or business that uses this system. Second, the base station 14 can be used to check tag parameters, eg, status or passcode / code.

  FIG. 3 is a detailed view of the desorption device module 34 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The detaching device 34 functions to provide a means for detaching the tag 12 from the product to be protected at the cash register. In this embodiment, the desorption device 34 features a communication port 35, which generates an infrared signal, for example, for communicating with the tag 12. In addition, the detachment device 34 features a strong magnet 37 (as shown in FIG. 2) required to apply a magnetic force to the clutch cone 28 on the tag 12, thereby pinning a pin (not shown) to the tag. It removes from 12 and plays the role which releases protection object goods. Thus, both functions can be performed by the detachment device 34 to remove the tag 12. The infrared sensor 35 of the detachment device 34 communicates with the infrared sensor 125 of the tag 12 (FIG. 2) for successful release. Further, a magnetic force is applied to actually remove the physical pin from the tag. In this regard, the EAS system of the present invention is much safer than conventional EAS systems in that it must perform two separate operations prior to removal. This process prevents an assumed scenario where a thief can secretly bring a large magnet into the store to remove the tag from the item. When such a tag is removed at a location away from the infrared communication path 120, the tag 12 issues an automatic alarm.

  In other embodiments, the detachment device 34 may have a generally warhead shape, as shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the detaching device 34 is surrounded by a locking flange 36, which engages the detaching device 34 flush with the register counter to facilitate operation. It plays a role to match. Together with the locking flange 36, the shape of the detaching device 34 allows the detaching device 34 to be easily detached from the counter 32. In addition, the detachment device 34 can be placed in a spring biased sleeve within the counter 32 to ensure greater safety during use and to facilitate removal from the counter 32.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the magnetic desorption device 34 is normally set on the counter 32. However, in yet another embodiment, the detaching device can be moved from its installation position in order to facilitate the removal of commodities and tag communication that are troublesome to place on the counter. In order to prevent the detaching device 34 from being completely removed from the counter 32 and taken away, the detaching device 34 is connected via a restraining cord 38. The detaching device 34 is also characterized by communication with the base station 14 in a wired form (not shown). The detaching device 34 may include an automatic alarm device that is activated by detachment from the restraining cord 38 when the restraining cord 38 is disconnected or disconnected by any method.

  The remote station 16 may be adapted to align with the tag 12 by, for example, a user pointing the remote station 16 at the tag 12. In this way, it is assumed that the remote station 16 reads the tag passcode status or programs the tag 12 with a new passcode. In yet another embodiment, the remote station 16 may remain active only for a specified time (eg, 30 minutes), after which all stored data may be automatically deleted. The remote station 16 may be returned to the base station 14 for data refresh. With this configuration, the remote station 16 has temporary utility, and the remote station 16 is useless for those who are trying to steal goods at the same store or another store using the same model system. This provides a protection against misplacement or theft of the remote station 16.

  The alarm device 132 may be independent of an alarm generated in response to detection of the tag 12 by a legitimate EAS antenna system in each query area. Sensitivity of the alarm device 132 can be adjusted according to preference so that the alarm device 132 is activated when an unauthorized operation is attempted when the tag 12 is removed from the product or one or more members of the tag 12 are separated. Or it may be preliminarily set. Alternatively, the sensitivity can be adjusted according to preference so that when the tag 12 is removed or one or more members of the tag 12 are actually separated, the alarm device 132 is activated at the time of an unauthorized operation. May also be preset. The alarm device 132 may generate an alarm signal that can be detected by a guard or a staff member when the tag 12 is sufficiently illegally operated or successfully removed depending on the surrounding situation or state.

  5 and 6 show an external perspective view of an embodiment of the tack retaining tag 300. FIG. The tack 301 has a shaft 302 and a head 303. In order to hold the tag 300 on the product, the tack shaft 302 is inserted into the product and inserted into the opening 304 as shown in FIG. The tack 301 is detachably held by a mechanism located in the tag 300. In one embodiment of the tag 300, the mechanism that holds the tack shaft 302 in the opening 304 is a ball clutch mechanism that allows the tack shaft 302 to be removed by applying a strong magnetic force to the clutch cone 305. . Another type of mechanism uses a slide wedge 306 to hold the tack shaft 302, as shown in FIG. This embodiment also allows the tack shaft 302 to be removed by applying a strong magnetic force to the clutch cone 305. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the clutch housing 307 is a member that has at least a substantially magnetically attractable material therein and is subjected to a strong magnetic force for removing the tack shaft 302.

  According to certain embodiments, the tag or transponder 300 further comprises several characteristics or components in addition to the previously described components. Possible components include a switch button 308 and an infrared communication port 309 as shown in FIG. Further possible components include a light emitting diode (LED) 310, a battery 311, a microprocessor, a clock, and a communication antenna member (a microprocessor, a clock, and a communication antenna member are shown in FIG. Circuit board 312, audible alarm issuing device 313, and EAS ferrite coil 314. The embodiment of the tag 300 shown in FIG. 7 has an EAS ferrite 314, but in other embodiments, a resonant device that is a common detectable component used in EAS tags may be used. Another component that may be used with the audible warning device 313 is the audio vent 315 shown in FIGS. The voice vent 315 provides a path for the voice to leave the tag 300 to make the alarm more audible.

  In a preferred embodiment, the tag 300 can issue an automatic alarm when any one of several events occurs. As an event that can issue an automatic alarm by the tag 300, there is a physical illegal operation of the tag. When the tack 301 is forcibly removed or the tack head 303 is detached from the tack shaft 302, the audible alarm issuing device 313 generates a loud audible sound, and the tag 300 issues an alarm. As shown in FIG. 5, the switch button 308 biased outward is pressed by the tack head 303 when the tack shaft 302 is inserted into the tag 300. When the tack 301 is forcibly removed, or when the tack head 303 is detached from the tack shaft 302, the switch button 308 is released from the pressed position and causes the tag 300 to issue an automatic alarm. In some embodiments of the tag 300, an automatic alarm is issued when the body of the tag 300 is opened or in danger. In this case, an automatic alarm is issued when means such as the circuit board 312 is displaced.

  After all, there are several ways that the tag 300 of various embodiments can issue an alarm. When the tag 300 is illegally operated, the built-in audible alarm issuing device 313 can issue an automatic alarm. When the tag 300 is removed from the product without first being released, the built-in audible alarm issuing device 313 can issue an automatic alarm. When the tag 300 detects that a built-in electronic merchandise monitoring component such as a ferrite 314 or a resonance device is stimulated by the electronic merchandise monitoring inquiry area, the tag 300 issues an automatic alarm with the built-in audible alarm issuing device 313. You can also. The electronic merchandise monitoring system itself can issue a system alarm when it detects the presence of an electronic merchandise monitoring ferrite or tag 300 having a resonant device 314.

  FIG. 8 shows an external perspective view of an embodiment of a strap-held tag or transponder 350, and FIGS. 9 and 10 show top and bottom views of the strap-like tag 350, respectively. FIG. 11 shows an internal member of the strap-like tag 350. The strap 351 has a permanently fixed end and a coupling end 353. In an embodiment, a part of the strap 351 along the longitudinal direction is made of a conductive material. In particular, many embodiments of the strap-like tag 350 have a strap 351 whose core is composed of a conductive cable. The coupling end portion 353 of the strap 351 has a holding pin portion 354 and a contact cylinder portion 355. In order to hold the strap-like tag 350 on the product, the strap 351 is passed through the product, and the holding pin 354 is inserted into the opening 356 (shown in FIG. 9) and held by a mechanism located within the strap-like tag 350. . Alternatively, instead of passing the strap 351 through the product, the strap 351 may be wrapped around a product that cannot be easily removed. In one embodiment of the tag 350, the mechanism that holds the retaining pin 354 in the opening 356 applies a strong magnetic force to the clutch cone 357, as shown at the bottom of the strap-like tag 350 of FIGS. This is a ball clutch mechanism that allows the holding pin 354 to be removed. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the clutch housing 358 is a component that has at least a substantially magnetic attractive material therein and removes the holding pin 354 by the action of a strong magnetic force.

  Depending on the particular embodiment, the strap-like tag or strap-like transponder 350 may have some more features or components in addition to the features or components already described. Two possible components are shown in the appearance of FIG. 8, namely an infrared communication port 359 and a light emitting diode (LED) 360. The infrared communication port 359 and the LED 360 are also shown in FIG. 11, and only the LED 360 is shown in FIG. Further possible internal components of the strap-like tag 350 are shown in FIG. Such possible internal components include a circuit board having a switch 361, a battery 362, a microprocessor, a clock, and a communication antenna member (the microprocessor, clock, and communication antenna member are not shown in FIG. 11). 363, audible alarm issuing device 364, and EAS ferrite 365 are included. Although the embodiment of the strap-like tag 350 shown in FIG. 11 has EAS ferrite 365, other embodiments may use a resonant device that is a common detectable component for use with EAS tags. Another possible component for use with the audible warning device 364 is an audio vent 366, as best shown in FIG. The audio vent 366 provides a path for audio to leave the tag 350, thereby making the alarm more audible. Finally, a clutch wire 367 extends from the circuit board 363 to the holding component 368, and a strap wire 369 extends from the circuit board 363 to the fixed end 352 of the strap 351. As described in more detail below, the clutch wire 367, the strap wire 369, the strap 351, and the switch 361 form a circuit that supports detection of a physical unauthorized operation of the strap-like tag 350.

  The strap-like tag 350 can issue an automatic alarm when any one of several events occurs. As an event that can issue an automatic alarm by the tag 350, there is a physical illegal operation of the tag. A common attack on a strap-like tag is a strap break. With reference to FIGS. 8 and 11, once the coupling end 353 of the strap 351 is inserted into the holding mechanism 368 through the opening 356, two unauthorized operation detection circuits are completed. The first unauthorized operation detection circuit includes a clutch wire 367, a holding mechanism 368, a holding pin 354, a contact cylinder 355, and a switch 361, and is completed on a circuit board 363 (such as a microprocessor). This first unauthorized operation detection circuit proves that the coupling end 353 of the strap 351 has been inserted. The second unauthorized operation detection circuit includes a strap wire 369 and a strap 351 and is completed by two possible wiring paths. One completed wiring path includes a contact cylinder 355, a switch 361, and a circuit board 363 (such as a microprocessor). The other completed wiring path includes a holding pin 354, a holding mechanism 368, a clutch wire 367, and a circuit board 363 (such as a microprocessor). This second tamper detection circuit monitors the integrity of the strap 351. When the strap 351 is cut, the first tamper detection circuit is still complete, but the second detection circuit is an open circuit. When the tag 350 detects that the strap 351 has been cut, the audible alarm issuing device 313 generates an audible sound and issues an automatic alarm. In some embodiments of the tag 350, an automatic alarm is issued when the body of the tag 350 is opened or in danger. In this case, an automatic alarm may be triggered by displacement of means such as the circuit board 363.

  A clever thief attempts to disable the strap-like tag 350 by bringing a strong magnet into the retail store and applying a magnetic force to the portion of the tag corresponding to the ball clutch mechanism at the bottom of the strap-like tag 350. However, if an appropriate passcode IR signal is not received in such a situation, removing the strap 351 from the socket 356 results in an automatic tag alarm and reveals theft.

  A further event such that an embodiment tag 350 issues an automatic alarm is, in some embodiments, an interaction with a standard electronic merchandise monitoring system by a ferrite 365 or resonator. When a product with the strap-like tag 350 attached is secretly taken out from a retail store, the ferrite 365 or a corresponding resonance device issues an automatic alarm, and the EAS system itself issues an alarm as well. When the product monitoring system detects the tag 350, the product monitoring system issues a system alarm or an audible alarm. However, the circuit board 363 that can issue an automatic alarm by the tag 350 can also detect the operation of the ferrite 365.

  After all, there are several ways in which the tag 350 of various embodiments issues an alarm. When the tag 350 is illegally operated, the built-in audible alarm issuing device 364 can issue an automatic alarm. The tag 350 can also issue an automatic alarm by its built-in audible alarm issuing device 364 when it is removed from the product without being released first. The tag 350 may issue an automatic alarm by the built-in audible alarm issuing device 364 when detecting that the built-in electronic product monitoring component such as the ferrite 365 or the resonance device is stimulated by the electronic product monitoring inquiry area. it can. The merchandise monitoring system can also issue a system alarm when detecting the presence of a tag 350 having an electronic merchandise monitoring ferrite or resonant device 365.

  In other embodiments, the microprocessor 144 (FIG. 1) disposed within the tag, such as tag 12 of FIG. 1, rigid tag 300 (FIG. 7), strap-like tag 350 (FIG. 11), other embodiments, Information can be stored, reprogrammed, and functions performed by other components described as being within the tag 300 or strap-like tag 350. A microprocessor can store a wide range of information that communicates with the microprocessor by assisting the system via wireless signals, infrared signals, and the like. For example, when a tag is attached to a product, information about the product can be transmitted to the tag and stored. In some embodiments, passcode is particularly important information stored by the microprocessor. The passcode is initially assigned at the factory and changed at the point of use at the time of use. At the time of inquiry by the system, the microprocessor responds with its ID and other request information via the communication component of the tag, the infrared port, and the like. In embodiments using passcodes, additional security is provided with unique identifiers and IDs by adding additional system components, as described above. In this system component, the device used to remove or remove the tag or to instruct the tag to stop the automatic alarm must be able to authenticate the passcode to enable the operation. I must. For example, as described above, some transponders are removed from the attached product by applying a strong magnetic force. If authentication from the EAS system is not required, the transponder can be removed by application of a large, unauthorized magnet. By requesting interaction with the system, such as passcoat authentication prior to tag removal, the microprocessor can be programmed to issue an alarm when removed without system interaction or passcode exchange it can.

  Transponder embodiments that use passcodes may use static and immutable passcodes, or may use variable passcodes. The variable passcode can be changed by a computer via a universal serial bus (USB) or by a wireless infrared device, or using a time series algorithm in which the tag is programmed into the tag's microprocessor, The passcode can be changed automatically. Other system components, such as base stations, have the same algorithm as the tag and can replicate and track passcode changes across the same passcode system.

  Embodiments using a time series algorithm programmed into the tag's microprocessor to change the passcode periodically change the passcode. In some embodiments, the transponder has a high precision clock that is mounted with the microprocessor. The microprocessor is programmed with an algorithm to change the passcode for the tag and uses the clock to determine when to change the passcode according to the protocol programmed into the microprocessor. The system includes a base station capable of executing software. The base station also has a high precision clock and has an algorithm programmed into the tag's microprocessor. By knowing the tag's initial passcode and indicating the initial time, the base station of the system can update its database to include the correct passcode.

  Of course, if the transponder passcode is changed directly by the base station or remote station, the transponder passcode is known to other components of the system and the database is updated at the time of the passcode change. . In some system embodiments, a system-wide passcode is used and no unique transponder identifier is required. When the passcode is changed, the passcode is changed for all components of the system, transponder, remote station, and base station. In embodiments that use time series algorithms for passcode changes, all components of the system have access to a precision clock. The system components are synchronized in time series, and the passcode is changed within each component. Each component of the system has a correctly updated passcode during communication.

  For transponders or tags that use a passcode to remove from the product without issuing an alarm, system components such as base stations and remote stations communicate with the transponder to verify the passcode and the transponder's You must instruct the microprocessor. In certain embodiments, this interaction between the system and the transponder is performed by infrared communication. In such an embodiment, the transponder has an infrared communication port for interaction with the system, and the components of the system have an infrared communication function. While changing the setting to not issue an alarm, the transponder can be released or removed by a special tool that combines the microprocessor and communication capabilities with the ability to generate a strong magnetic force. For such system embodiments where a single passcode is valid throughout the system, infrared (IR) communication is more relevant than sending a release signal over a radio frequency signal due to the greater line-of-sight effect. Restricted communication is possible.

Claims (35)

At least one tag comprising an attachment mechanism, a self-contained power system, a microprocessor, and machine-readable instructions encoded to store a passcode;
At least one tag interface comprising a processor and machine-readable instructions encoded to store the passcode;
An electronic merchandise monitoring system comprising means for establishing infrared communication between at least one tag and at least one interface to enable information exchange.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the passcode stored in the tag is changed by the tag interface through a physical connection with the tag interface.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the passcode stored in each tag is changed by the tag interface via the infrared communication means between the tag and the tag interface. Each of the at least one tag further comprises a high precision clock generator and a machine readable instruction coded to execute an algorithm for generating multiple passcodes, wherein each active tag has a specific time Own a passcode and generate a new passcode when specified using the algorithm,
Each tag interface comprises a high-accuracy clock generator and machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for generating a number of passcodes, each tag interface having a passcode at the specified time 2. The electronic merchandise monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the same new passcode is generated at the specified time using the algorithm.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the attachment mechanism is a strap and a clutch.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the attachment mechanism is a tack and a clutch.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the attachment mechanism is a clip.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the tag further includes an electronic merchandise monitoring sensor.   9. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 8, wherein the electronic merchandise monitoring sensor is a ferrite coil.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 9, wherein the electronic merchandise monitoring sensor is an electronic merchandise monitoring resonance device.    The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the tag further includes an audible alarm issuing device.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the tag issues an audible alarm when the attachment mechanism is removed without the tag being released via the infrared communication means.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the tag issues an audible alarm when the tag is illegally operated without being released via the infrared communication means.   12. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein the tag issues an audible alarm when the tag enters the electronic merchandise monitoring area without being released via the infrared communication means.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 8, wherein when the tag enters an inquiry area, the tag issues a system alarm.   The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the tag interface is a base station that manages at least a part of the EAS system.   The tag interface is a remote management unit, the remote management unit for storing a powerful magnetic force generation means, a high precision clock generator, a power supply, a processor, a passcode, and at known time intervals The electronic merchandise monitoring system of claim 1 comprising machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for continuous passcode generation.   5. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 4, wherein the pass code is the same pass code for each tag subjected to the action of the EAS system. Mounting mechanism, electronic merchandise monitoring sensor, alarm issuing device, built-in power supply system, high-accuracy clock generator, microprocessor, passcode storage, and algorithm for continuous passcode generation At least one tag with machine-readable instructions coded to
At least one tag interface comprising a high-accuracy clock generator, a processor, machine-readable instructions coded to store a passcode and execute an algorithm for continuous passcode generation;
Means for establishing infrared communication between each tag and each tag interface in order to enable information exchange between each tag and each tag interface;
Each tag operating at a specific time has a passcode,
Whether the passcode stored in the tag is maintained unchanged, changed via a physical connection with a tag interface, changed via the infrared communication means, or the algorithm is periodically The electronic merchandise monitoring system is changed by the microprocessor executing on   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the attachment mechanism is a strap and a clutch.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the attachment mechanism is a tack and a clutch.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the attachment mechanism is a clip.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the electronic merchandise monitoring sensor is a ferrite coil.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the electronic merchandise monitoring sensor is an electronic merchandise monitoring resonance device. 20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the tag issues an audible alarm when the attachment mechanism is removed without the tag being released via the infrared communication means.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the tag issues an audible alarm when the tag is illegally operated without being released via the infrared communication means.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the tag interface is a base station that manages at least a part of the EAS system.   20. The electronic merchandise monitoring system according to claim 19, wherein the tag interface is a release device. Mounting mechanism, electronic merchandise monitoring sensor, alarm issuing device, built-in power supply system, high-accuracy clock generator, microprocessor, passcode storage, and algorithm for continuous passcode generation At least one tag with machine-readable instructions coded to
At least one base station comprising a high-accuracy clock generator, a processor, machine-readable instructions coded to store a passcode and to execute an algorithm for continuous passcode generation;
At least one remote interface for remotely interfacing with each tag, comprising a precision clock generator, a processor, and machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for continuous pass code generation. A remote interface that is programmable and includes:
Means for establishing infrared communications between each tag and each base station and each remote interface, comprising means for allowing information exchange between each tag and each base station by its path;
At a specific time, each active tag owns a passcode,
An electronic merchandise monitoring system, wherein each tag replaces a passcode when specified.   Mounting mechanism, electronic merchandise monitoring sensor, alarm issuing device, built-in power supply system, infrared communication port, high precision clock generator, microprocessor, for storing passcodes, and at known time intervals An electronic merchandise surveillance tag comprising machine-readable instructions coded to execute an algorithm for generating a continuous passcode of the computer.   Coded to store powerful magnetic force generation means, high-accuracy clock generator, power supply, processor, passcode, and execute algorithms for continuous passcode generation at known time intervals Electronic product monitoring remote interface with machine readable instructions. 32. The electronic merchandise monitoring remote interface of claim 31, wherein the power source is a battery. 32. The electronic merchandise monitoring remote interface of claim 31, wherein the power source is a universal service bus AC adapter. 32. The electronic merchandise monitoring remote interface of claim 31, wherein the power source is a universal service bus cable. 32. The electronic product monitoring remote interface according to claim 31, wherein said strong magnetic force generating means is a magnet.

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