WO2017075042A1

WO2017075042A1 - Walk-through chekout system

Info

Publication number: WO2017075042A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/058848
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jonathan JENKINS; Rafael CALDERSON; Giorgio BORRUSO
Original assignee: Withme Nevada, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-10-26
Filing date: 2016-10-26
Publication date: 2017-05-04

Abstract

A checkout system can include a radio frequency receiver that detects a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag and a display communicatively coupled to a computing system. The computing system can be in communication with a server that stores user account information. In some implementations, the computing system can be configured to associate the detected radio frequency identification tag with an item; provide a scannable code via the display, the scannable code being associated with a purchase of the item; and receive a communication from the server indicating that the item has been charged to a valid user account when the scannable code is scanned by a mobile device associated with the user account, the mobile device being in communication with the server.

Description

WALK-THROUGH CHECKOUT SYSTEM

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of: U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/246,395, filed October 26, 2015, and titled "WALK-THROUGH CHECKOUT SYSTEM;" U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/246,337, filed October 26, 2015, and titled "SMART TAG FOR DYNAMIC PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION;" U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/246,416, filed October 26, 2015, and titled "HANGER SYSTEM;" and U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/246,385, filed October 26, 2015, and titled "INTERACTIVE DRESSING ROOM." Each provisional patent application listed in this paragraph is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Consumers are constantly looking for ways to streamline the shopping experience. Online retailers have allowed shoppers access to a large variety of goods, sizing options, customizability, and so forth. Yet, many shoppers still prefer to physically enter a store and interact with sales agents or test out the clothing or goods prior to making a purchase.

SUMMARY

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key and/or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Also, this Summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter in any manner.

[0004] Aspects of this disclosure relate to a checkout system that helps to streamline the shopping experience in a physical store. In an embodiment, the checkout system can include a radio frequency receiver that detects radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and a display communicatively coupled to a computing system. The computing system can be in communication with a server that stores user account information. In some implementations, the computing system can associate a detected radio frequency identification tag with an item (e.g., a manufactured good or commodity tagged with the RFID tag). The computing system can provide a scannable code via the display, the scannable code being associated with a purchase of the item. A user can scan the scannable code with a mobile device to initiate a transaction. The mobile device may be in communication with the server (e.g., through an application or web browser running on the mobile device). When the scannable code is scanned by a mobile device associated with the user account, the computing system can receive a communication from the server indicating that the item has been charged to a valid user account.

[0005] Aspects of this disclosure also relate to other retail systems and devices that can enhance a user shopping experience. For example, embodiments and implementations of smart tags and tagging systems, smart hangers, and interactive dressing rooms are also described herein.

DRAWINGS

[0006] The Detailed Description is described with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0007] FIG. 1 shows a walk-through checkout system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a walk-through checkout system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a smart tag system for dynamic product identification in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4A shows a smart tag in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4B shows an exploded view of a smart tag in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a hanger system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 6A shows a hanger assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6B shows an exploded view of a hanger assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 shows an interactive dressing room in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0016] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a curtain control system for an interactive dressing room in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a user interface system for an interactive dressing room in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Various embodiments and implementations of a walk-through checkout system are described herein. This disclosure also includes embodiments of retail systems and devices that can enhance a user shopping experience. For example, embodiments and implementations of smart tags and tagging systems, smart hangers, and interactive dressing rooms are also described herein. While specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and described herein, it shall be understood that multiple embodiments or portions of embodiments can be combined to achieve embodiments of systems, devices, or methods other than the embodiments that are explicitly disclosed herein. Furthermore, substitutions, modifications, and/or combinations can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate embodiments of a walk-through checkout system 200. In FIG. 1 an example environment 100 for implementing the walk-through checkout system 200 is shown to include a fixture (e.g., pedestal 102) for supporting one or more electronic components of the walk-through checkout system 200. In some embodiments, the example environment can also include a floor structure 104 (e.g., mat) and/or a wall or ceiling structure 106 (e.g., fixture or overhang) for supporting one or more sensors (e.g., motion sensors, radio frequency (RF) antennas, proximity sensors, cameras, etc.) of the walk-through checkout system 200.

[0020] The walk-through checkout system 200 allows a registered shopper to walk through a self-checkout facility seamlessly. For example, the system 200 reduces the need to wait in line to pay by employing radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to recognize items being purchased and allowing the shopper to checkout through a web browser (e.g., via a web application) or with an application running on the shopper's mobile device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or the like). [0021] In embodiments, the walk-through checkout system 200 includes a RF receiver 210 and a display 206 communicatively coupled to a computing system 202. In embodiments, the RF receiver 210 includes one or more antennas or antenna elements configured to detect RFID tags (e.g., such as smart tags 302 which are further described herein, or any other RFID tags that can be attached to consumer products). The display 206 can include, but is not limited to, at least one of a touch panel or touch screen display, a LED display, LCD display, or OLED display. The computing system 202 can include a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet, a smartphone, or the like. In general, a "computing system" as described herein can include any device or system comprising at least one processor and at least one storage device (e.g., HDD, SSD, flash memory, or the like) that is communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, whereby the processor can execute one or more modules (e.g., program instructions) from the storage device to implement one or more of the operations described herein. The computing system 202 is in communication with a server 204 that stores user account information. For example, the computing system 202 can be communicatively coupled to the server 204 through an internet or intranet connection. In embodiments, the server 204 can include a specially configured computing system.

[0022] The display 206 and/or the RF receiver 210 can be coupled to or embedded within a fixed or portable/semi-portable support structure. For example, the display 206 can be built into or attached to a pedestal (e.g., such as the pedestal 102 shown in FIG. 1) or other support structure (e.g., mounted to a walk-way structure, corridor, overhang, wall, etc.). The RF receiver antenna, antenna array, or multiple antennas/arrays can also be mounted to or located within the pedestal 102, walk- way, corridor, overhang, ceiling structure 106, wall, within or beneath a floor mat 104, any combination of the foregoing structures, or the like. In some embodiments, the walkthrough checkout system 200 can also include indicators 212, such as lights, buzzers, alarms, or other visual or audible indicators to notify the shopper or store personnel when a transaction is successful, unsuccessful, erroneous, or of suspected theft, failure to checkout, or the like. In some embodiments, the computing system can also detect one or more error conditions (e.g., RFID tags detected by the RF receiver 210 without purchase completion, invalid user account, invalid payment method, etc.), and can provide an alert via the one or more indicators 212. These indicators 212 can also be built into or attached to a fixture or support structure (e.g., pedestal 102, floor structure 104, or ceiling structure 106).

[0023] When a registered shopper picks up an item having an RFID tag coupled to or embedded within the item, the shopper can simply walk towards the checkout stand, and as the shopper reaches the stand, the RF receiver 210 (e.g., which can have an array of RFID far or near field antennas) can be configured to detect the RFID tag on the item (or multiple RFID tags attached to multiple items). The computing system 202 can be configured to associate one or more detected RFID tags with one or more respective items being purchased. For example, the computing system 202 can utilize a lookup table to match a detected RFID with a corresponding product stored in a database on the computing system 202, the server 204, or a communicatively coupled database (e.g., cloud database). In some embodiments, the computing system 202 is configured to generate a shopping list based on the detected RFID(s). The computing system 202 can also be configured to provide a scannable code 208 (e.g., a barcode, such as a two- dimensional (2D) barcode or the like) via the display 206, where the scannable code 208 is associated with one or more items being purchased or a generated shopping list.

[0024] In implementations, the shopper can scan the scannable code 208 with a mobile device 214 to initiate a transaction (i.e., to purchase the one or more items). For example, the mobile device 214 (e.g., smartphone, smartwatch, activity tracker, tablet, medial player, or other portable computing device) may be directly or indirectly in communication with the server 204 via associated wireless communication methods including, but not limited to acoustic communication signals, optical communication signals, radio communication signals, infrared communication signals, ultrasonic communication signals, and the like. The mobile device 214 (e.g., smartphone) can include a microprocessor, microcontroller, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate entry (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0025] When the scannable code 208 is scanned by a mobile device associated with the user account (e.g., through an application or web browser running on the mobile device), the computing system 202 can receive a communication from the server 204 indicating that the item has been charged to a valid user account. For example, the server 204 can be configured to validate the charge based on the user account and the scannable code 208 associated with the shopper's mobile device 214. In other implementations, the mobile device 214 can be configured to initiate the transaction via another close-proximity communication with the computing system 202, such as near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth communication, infrared communication, or the like, in addition to or instead of the scannable code 208. For example, the mobile device 214 can receive a NFC, Bluetooth, or infrared communication from the computing system 202 in order to associate one or more items being purchased with the mobile device 214, and hence, with an associated user account. In embodiments, the mobile device 214 or the computing system 202 may be configured to prompt the user for an input (e.g., pushing a button, entering a code, or biometric input (e.g., fingerprint)) to initiate the transaction at the server level after the products being purchased have been associated with the user's mobile device 214.

[0026] In some embodiments, instead of a mobile device 214, the user may simply carry a unique RFID badge or card that is associated with the user's shopping account. In such embodiments, all prompts and user interactions can be performed through input/output device(s) of the computing system 202. For example, the computing system 202 may be configured to associate a detected RFID tag with an item and also configured to associate a detected RFID badge with a user account. The computing system 202 can provide a user prompt via the display 206 for a user to confirm a purchase of the item via the input device (e.g., pressing "ok," entering a code, or the like). In embodiments, the computing system 202 is configured to send a communication indicating user confirmation of the purchase to the server 202 and further configured to receive a communication from the server 204 indicating that the item has been charged to the user account responsive to the user confirmation of the purchase. The computing system 202 can be communicatively coupled to a keyboard, mouse, one or more interface buttons, microphone, gesture detector (e.g., motion sensor or camera), or the like, and/or the display 206 can comprise at least one input device (e.g., the display 206 can comprise a touch panel or touch screen display). [0027] Where mobile devices 214 are used, one or more user interactions may be completed via the computing system 202 in addition to those being completed via the mobile device 214. For example, when the shopper scans the barcode 208 and a communication is received from the server 204 (e.g., at the computing system 202 or the mobile device 214) authorizing the transaction with the user account, the computing system 202 and/or the mobile device 214 can be configured to prompt the shopper (e.g., provide a request via the display 206) to confirm the transaction by providing an authentication (e.g., pressing a "confirm" or "ok" button shown on the display 206, or providing a confirmation through a different user input device).

[0028] The computing system 202 and/or the mobile device 214 may be configured to communicate an authentication of the purchase to the server 204 in response to the user authentication. Responsive to the authentication, the server 204 can be configured to bill the user account. For example, once the purchase is confirmed, the purchase is billed by server 204 (or via a third party, transaction processor) to the user account associated with the mobile device 214, and the shopper can simply walk away. The walk-through checkout system 200 allows a shopper to approach a checkout station (e.g., pedestal 102) with the item or items the shopper wishes to purchase, scan the barcode 208 presented via the display 206, and confirm the transaction via the mobile device 214 or an input device of the computing system 202. This allows the user to seamlessly purchase items and exit the store without the typical hold-up of having to scan individual items in, enter particular codes, select payment methods, and so forth. Certain options (e.g., payment method) can be provided to the user; however, in some embodiments, the payment method can be pre-stored for the user's account so that the user's mobile device 214 or RFID badge automatically pulls up the relevant user information and therefore reduces the steps need to make a purchase of the RFID tagged items detected by the RFID receiver 210.

[0029] The walk-through checkout system 200 can operate in conjunction with a smart tag system that implements smart tags for dynamic product identification. The smart tag system 300 can also operate independent of the walk-through checkout system 200. FIG. 3 illustrates a smart tag system 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the smart tag system 300 includes one or more smart tags 302, a RF access point 304, and one or more information sources. For example, information sources can include a store server 306 (e.g., server 204 or another server) communicatively coupled with a store tagging terminal 308 (e.g. a computing system such as a desktop PC, notebook PC, tablet, or the like) and a cloud database 310 (e.g., a cloud storage and/or computing network).

[0030] In embodiments, the tagging terminal 308 can include a sensor device 322 (e.g., barcode reader, RFID receiver, or the like) for detecting the unique identifier 316 associated with a smart tag 302. The tagging terminal 308 can be configured to determine an associated item 324 or can be configured to provide options for associating a particular item 324 with a smart tag (e.g., selection of item, price, location, item attribute (e.g., size, fit, color, etc.), and so forth). For example, the tagging terminal 308 can be used to retrieve or enter item information from an inventory database or online catalog based on detection of the unique identifier 316.

[0031] In embodiments, the smart tag 302 includes a display 312, a communications interface 314, a unique identifier 316, and a power source 318. For example, the display 312 is configured to display information associated with a product (e.g., a product or good for sale). In embodiments, the display 312 can include an e-paper or e-ink display that can change the information displayed based on application of an electric signal or electromagnetic field. In general, the display 312 can include a screen or display element that can automatically and dynamically update without manual interference, such as an e-paper display, an e-ink display, LCD, a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, or the like. The communications interface 314 is configured to wirelessly communicate with a base station (e.g., one or more of the store sever 306, the store tagging terminal 308 and/or the cloud database 310 via the radio frequency access point 304) for one or more dynamic product information updates. For example, the communications interface 314 can include a radio (e.g., 900Mhz radio) and associated controller to provide communication pathways between (e.g., to and/or from) the smart tag 302 and the radio frequency access point 304, and accordingly between the smart tag 302 and one or more of the store sever 306, the store tagging terminal 308 and/or the cloud database 310 via the radio frequency access point 304. The identifier 316 uniquely identifies the smart tag 302, such as to distinguish a particular smart tag 302 from a other smart tags 302. For example, the identifier 316 can include one or more of a bar code (e.g., a two-dimensional bar code or data matrix bar code), an antenna (e.g., RFID antenna) configured for reporting and/or receiving positional information, or the like. The power source 318 is configured to power one or more components of the smart tag 302, such as one or more of the display 312, the communications interface 314, and/or the identifier 316. The power source 318 can include a battery. In some embodiments, the battery can have a battery duration or life of about 3 years when the battery supplies power to the smart tag 102 three times per day.

[0032] In embodiments, the smart tag 302 can further include a light source 320. The communications interface 314 may be configured to provide an electrical signal or RF signal to illuminate the light source 320 when the display 312 is updated, or when price information associated with the smart tag 302 is updated or changed. In embodiments, the smart tag 302 includes a wake/sleep feature that causes the smart tag 302 to activate (e.g., provide power to the display 312) when a user (e.g., shopper, customer, employee, etc.) is near the smart tag 302, such as thru proximity sensing (e.g., a proximity sensor associated with the identifier 316) or by accelerometer or other motion/inertial sensor that senses when the smart tag 302 or associated product is picked up or otherwise moved by a user. Such activation can further initiate a check of the system for any updates to the smart tag 302, such as display information and the like. In embodiments, the smart tag 302 is configured to recognize a particular individual user via recognition of a user's mobile device (e.g., mobile device 214) or based on proximity of the user to the smart tag 302 (e.g. by detecting an RFID tag associated with the user), whereby the smart tag 302 is configured to submit an inquiry to the access point router 304 for specific data to personal the information shown in the display 312 for the identified particular individual user. For example, the smart tag 302 can identify an individual (e.g., customer) and associate the identified individual to a priority level of the individual, whereby the smart tag 302 can dynamically update the display 312 to display to the individual one or more of a prioritized price for the product, a reward for the individual (e.g., a comped gift or service available to the individual in-store), a promotional item for the individual (e.g., a limited time sale for the product or a related product based on the individual or an item worn by the individual), a prioritized shipping cost for the individual, and the like, based on the priority level of the individual. In embodiments, the identifier 316 includes a RFID label that is configured to provide identification associated with check out procedures (e.g., buying the product), location procedures (e.g., inventory analyses), and anti -theft procedures.

[0033] The smart tag 302 can provide functionality as a platform for price tag for retail, commercial, and wholesale sales environments. The retailer or sales entity can utilize the smart tag 302 to perform dynamic price changes without requiring manual retagging or editing procedures. In embodiments, the smart tag 302 includes a foldable form factor (e.g., a foldable substrate) for provide a variety of configurations for display. In some embodiments, the smart tag 302 can include a table or can be integrated into a store table or shelf display. FIGS. 4A and 4B show another embodiment of a smart tag 400, for example, in some embodiments, smart tag 302 can comprise smart tag 400. In embodiments, smart tag 400 is configured as a foldable smart tag having a base member 402 and a support member 404 (that supports a display) linked by a hinge 406 that allows the base member 402 and the support member 404 to pivot towards or away from one another. As shown in FIG. 4B, the base member 402 can include a battery cover 408, a battery board 410 (e.g., PCB) for supporting a battery, and a battery enclosure 412. The hinge 406 can include a cover shaft 414, a hinge element 416, and a hinge cover or end cap 418. The support member 404 can include a transparent/translucent front cover 420, double sided tape 422 that holds a display 424 (and associated elements, e.g., a PCB supporting the display 424, an LED, speaker, communications interface, etc.) to the front cover 420, a main support member chassis 426, and a back cover 428. The elements can be assembled in the order shown in FIG. 4B. In other embodiments, the base member 402 and the support member 404 are differently configured, for example, the elements can be distributed differently between the two portions and/or elements can be added, removed, substituted, and so forth.

[0034] In embodiments, functionalities of the certain components described herein can be performed remotely from the smart tag 302, where the smart tag 302 can send and receive signals between a remote location (e.g., an external device such as computing system 202, server 204, and/or mobile device 214) and the smart tag 302 via associated wireless communication methods including, but not limited to acoustic communication signals, optical communication signals, radio communication signals, infrared communication signals, ultrasonic communication signals, and the like. The smart tag 302 can include a microprocessor, microcontroller, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate entry (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0035] In some embodiments, a smart tag 302 can be used to implement a smart hanger. For example, FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a hanger system 500, wherein a smart tag 502 (e.g., such as smart tag 302) can be supported within a docking portion 510 defined by a hanger support structure 506. In embodiments, the hanger system 500 includes a hanger support structure 506 configured to support a product for sale 504, including but not limited to, clothing, linens, houseware articles, sporting goods, commercial products, wholesale products, and the like. The hanger support structure 506 includes a magnetic connector 508 that is configured to couple to a product display structure attached to or at least partially formed from a corresponding magnetic or metallic material so that the magnetic connector 508 can coupled to the product display structure (e.g., a rack, a shelf, or the like) for display of the product for sale 504. For example, the magnetic connector 508 can include a magnet configured to couple the hanger support structure 506 to a metallic or magnetic rack, shelf, or the like.

[0036] In embodiments, the hanger support structure 506 defines one or more of an aperture or a docking portion 510 configured to receive and support a smart tag 502 therein. For example, the hanger support structure 506 can include an aperture 510 to receive a smart tag 502 having a display screen viewable through the aperture, whereby the smart tag 502 can display information associated with the product for sale 504 supported by the hanger support structure 506. In embodiments, the hanger support structure 506 includes a base structure having two downwardly-projecting portions configured to support the product for sale, wherein the base structure includes the aperture or docking portion 510 that remains visible to a consumer when the product is supported by the two downwardly-projecting portions such that the smart tag would be visible to the consumer when received in the aperture or docking portion and when the product is supported by the two downwardly-projecting portions. For example, the hanger support structure 506 can support a shirt 504 by the two downwardly-projecting portions, where the aperture or docking portion 510 (and any associated smart tags 502 docked therein) is visible above/through the collar portion of the shirt 504 when the shirt is supported by the two downwardly-projecting portions. In embodiments, the hanger support structure 506 can include a power source (e.g., battery, solar power element, integrated power source, etc.) configured to supply power to the smart tag 502 docked within the aperture/docking portion 510. The hanger support structure 506 can also include a light source powered by the power source. For example, the power source can power the light source causing illumination, such as to attract a consumer to the specific product for sale 504 that is supported by the hanger support structure 506.

[0037] In embodiments, the display structure (e.g., rack, shelf, etc.) includes a programmable magnet and/or programmable metallic material configured to interface with the magnetic connector 508 of the hanger support structure 506. The programmable magnet and/or programmable metallic material is generally configured to rotate the hanger support structure 506 relative to the display structure. For example, the display structure can include one or more programmable magnets and/or programmable metallic materials to rotate one or more hanger support structures 506 relative to the display structure, such as to align the hanger support structures 506 in an ordered pattern (e.g., hanger support structures 506 oriented parallel with respect to each other, etc.), to align the hanger support structures 506 in a random pattern, to rotate one or more hanger support structures 506 independent of the other hanger support structures 506, and so forth.

[0038] In embodiments, the programmable magnet and/or programmable metallic material removably attaches or supports the hanger support structure 506 relative to the display structure. For example, the programmable magnet and/or programmable metallic material can removably couple the hanger support structure 506 to the display structure via magnetic interactions between the programmable magnet and/or programmable metallic material of the display structure and the magnetic connector 508 of the hanger support structure 506.

[0039] FIGS. 6 A and 6B show another embodiment of a hanger system 600 including a similarly configured hanger support structure 602. For example, in some embodiments, hanger system 500 and/or hanger support structure 506 can comprise the hanger system 600 and/or hanger support structure 602 shown in FIGS. 6 A and 6B. As shown in FIGS. 6 A and 6B, the hanger system 600 can include a hanger support structure 602 having two downwardly projecting portions, a first aperture or docking portion 612 for receiving a smart tag 606 (e.g., such as smart tag 302 or the like), and a second docking portion 610 for receiving a magnetic connector 608 (e.g., a magnet). The first docking portion 612 can include an aperture that allows a display of the smart tag 606 to be viewed through the aperture of the hanger support structure 602. In some embodiments, the smart tag 606 slides or clips into the aperture of the first docking portion 612. In other embodiments, the smart tag 606 can be inserted through a second aperture or passageway formed through a bottom portion of the hanger support structure 602. In some embodiments, the hanger support structure 602 further includes at least one aperture or hole 614 for receiving one or more indicators 604 (e.g., light sources such as LEDs), for example, to attract a consumer to a specific product for sale that is supported by the hanger support structure 602.

[0040] In embodiments, functionalities of the certain components described herein can be performed remotely from the hanger system 500/600, where the hanger system 500/600 (e.g., via smart tag 502/606) can send and receive signals between a remote location (e.g., an external device such as computing system 202, server 204, and/or mobile device 214) and the hanger system via associated wireless communication methods including, but not limited to acoustic communication signals, optical communication signals, radio communication signals, infrared communication signals, ultrasonic communication signals, and the like. The hanger system can include a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate entry (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

[0041] In some embodiments, a shopping facility can also include a smart or interactive dressing room. For example, the interactive dressing room can operate in conjunction with the walkthrough checkout system and smart tags and/or hangers described herein. The interactive dressing room can also comprise a standalone facility for shoppers wishing to try on and/or purchase goods (e.g., clothing, accessories, etc.). FIGS. 7 through 9 illustrate systems implementing an interactive dressing room in accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. In embodiments, an interactive dressing room system can include an interactive dressing room 700, an automated curtain and curtain control system 800, and a user interface system 900, wherein the various subsystems (e.g., curtain control system 800 and/or user interface system 900) include respective computing systems or controllers (e.g., controller 802, computing system 902, and store server 904) that are communicatively coupled to elements of the interactive dressing room 700 for providing control and user interface functionalities.

[0042] In embodiments, the interactive dressing room system includes a RF receiver 714 that detects RFID tags (e.g., smart tags 302, or the like) and a display 706 communicatively coupled to computing system 902 (e.g., dressing room computer). In some implementations, the computing system 902 is in communication with a server 904 that stores user account information. For example, the computing system 902 can be communicatively coupled to the server 904 through an internet or intranet connection. In some implementations, the dressing room 700 can include a mirror (e.g., a half mirror) with the display 706 integrated within or positioned adjacent to the mirror. The display 706 can be a touch panel or touch screen display. For example, a shopper may be able to interface with the computing system 902 via a touch display 706 integrated within a mirror that is located in a dressing room.

[0043] In some embodiments, the dressing room 700 also has an automatic curtain system 800. For example, blinds, curtains, a moving corridor, or a sliding/swinging door 702 can be set into motion to close off the dressing room. In some embodiments, the curtain system 800 includes a controller 802 configured to signal an actuator 704 (e.g., electric motor, linear actuator, or the like) to open or close the curtain 702 in response to signals received from an input device 710 (e.g., button, capacitive touch switch, optical sensor, etc.) that can be pressed or otherwise activated by a shopper wishing to open/close the curtain 702. In some embodiments, the computing system 902 can be the controller 802 or can be coupled to the controller 802 (i.e., where the controller 802 is an independent controller).

[0044] The computing system 902 can associate a detected RFID tag with an item (e.g., clothing or accessories tagged with the RFID tag). For example, the computing system 902 may be configured to determine items brought into the dressing room based upon the detected RFID tags. In some embodiments, an RFID antenna for the RF receiver 714, multiple RFID antennas, or one or more RFID antenna arrays can be located in the dressing room, in a closet located within or adjacent to the dressing room, or on an internal/external clothing rack. For example, once the shopper is inside of the dressing room and one or more items are inside the closet, on the clothing rack, or simply within the dressing room, the RF receiver 714 detects the one or more items, and the computing system 902 can be configured to provide relevant retail information related to the one or more items via the display 706. The shopper has the ability to lower the curtain 702 and try the item on. In some embodiments, the computing system 902 can also provide information via a directional speaker 708. For example, while the shopper is trying the item, relevant retail information may be heard by the shopper from the directional speaker 708, which can be positioned above the curtain stationary frame, on the ceiling, on a wall structure, or other location facing the shopper. Information related to the item can include information such as, but not limited to, specifications of the item (e.g., material/fabric used, style, cut, sizing information, pricing, and so forth), information regarding complimentary or similar items, or environmental sounds or displays based upon the item (e.g., lighting, scenery, and/or sounds or music based upon the item).

[0045] When a shopper wants to try an item, the shopper may select a dressing room or have a room selected for him or her. In some implementations, rather than retrieving the item himself, the shopper may select the item through a web browser (e.g., via a web application) or with an application running on a shopper's mobile device 716 (e.g., such as mobile device 214). The mobile application or web application can inform store personnel that the shopper intends to try on the item, and may specify a size, color, or other selectable feature. For example, the server 904 may receive a communication from the mobile device 716 indicating a selected item and can be configured to send a communication to a store personnel device (e.g., a store computer, a personal computer, a mobile device, or the like) that includes instructions indicating that the selected item is to be transported to the dressing room. The store personnel can then find the item and bring it to the dressing room 700. In some implementations, store personnel can bring the item to any available dressing room and will usher the shopper to dressing room, or the selected dressing room can be communicated to the shopper's mobile device 716. In some implementations, when a shopper is in a dressing room 700, the dressing room computing system 902 can be used to send a communication to the server 904 or directly to a store personnel device to provide instructions indicating that a the selected item (e.g., an item selected via the touch display 706 or other user input device) is to be transported to the dressing room 700.

[0046] In some embodiments, the interactive dressing room system also enables a shopper to purchase a selected item. For example, the shopper can make a selection indicating that he/she wishes to purchase a particular item being tried on (or an item accessed via a virtual catalog accessed through the display 706). The computing system 902 may generate a shopping list including the items selected by the shopper for purchase. The computing system 902 can provide a scannable code 712 (e.g., a barcode, such as a two-dimensional (2D) barcode or the like) via the display 706, where the scannable code 712 is associated with the shopping list (e.g., at least one item being purchased). The shopper can then scan the scannable code 708 with a mobile device 716 to initiate a transaction (i.e., to purchase the one or more items). When the scannable code 712 is scanned by a mobile device 716 associated with a particular user account (e.g., through an application or web browser running on the mobile device), the computing system 902 can receives a communication from the server 904 indicating that the item has been charged to a valid user account. In other implementations, the mobile device can initiate the transaction via near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, communication, etc., instead of or in addition to validation by scanning the scannable code 712 with the mobile device 716.

[0047] In some implementations, when the shopper scans the barcode 712 and a communication is received authorizing the transaction with the user account, the computing system 902 can prompt the shopper (e.g., provide a request via the display 706) to confirm the transaction by providing an authentication (e.g., pressing a "confirm" or "ok" button shown on the display 706, or providing a confirmation through a different user input device). The computing system 902 can then communicate an authentication of the purchase to the server 904 in response to the user authentication. Once a purchase is confirmed, the item is billed to the user account and the shopper can walk away with his or her item without having to checkout at another facility (e.g., checkout counter) in a store.

[0048] Operations or steps described in this disclosure can be carried out in any order, unless otherwise indicated herein, and in some instances, various operations or steps may be carried out substantially simultaneously or at least partially in parallel. It should be further recognized that the various functions, operations, blocks, or steps described throughout the present disclosure may be carried out by any combination of hardware, software, or firmware. Various steps or operations may be carried out by one or more of the following: electronic circuitry, logic gates, multiplexers, a programmable logic device, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a controller/microcontroller, or a computing system. A computing system may include, but is not limited to, a personal computing system, mainframe computing system, workstation, image computer, parallel processor, or any other device known in the art. In general, the terms "controller" and "computing system" are broadly defined to encompass any device having one or more processors, which execute instructions from a carrier medium.

[0049] Program instructions implementing methods, such as those manifested by embodiments described herein, may be transmitted over or stored on carrier medium. The carrier medium may be a transmission medium, such as, but not limited to, a wire, cable, or wireless transmission link. The carrier medium may also include a non-transitory signal bearing medium or storage medium such as, but not limited to, a read-only memory, a random access memory, a magnetic or optical disk, a solid-state or flash memory device, or a magnetic tape.

[0050] Furthermore, it is to be understood that although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or process operations, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A checkout system, comprising:

a radio frequency receiver configured to detect a radio frequency identification tag;

a display; and

a computing system communicatively coupled with the radio frequency receiver, the display, and a server, the computing system being configured to:

associate the detected radio frequency identification tag with an item;

provide a scannable code via the display, the scannable code being associated with a purchase of the item; and

receive a communication from the server indicating that the item has been charged to a valid user account responsive to the scannable code being scanned by a mobile device associated with the user account, the mobile device being in communication with the server.

2. The checkout system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the display or the radio frequency receiver is coupled to or embedded within a fixture.

3. The checkout system of claim 1, wherein the fixture comprises a pedestal.

4. The checkout system of claim 1, wherein the scannable code comprises a two- dimensional barcode.

5. The checkout system of claim 1, further comprising:

a user input device communicatively coupled to the computing system.

6. The checkout system of claim 5, wherein the computing system is further configured to:

provide, via the display, a request for a user to authenticate the purchase of the item; and communicate an authentication of the purchase to the server in response to a user authentication received via the user input device.

7. The checkout system of claim 5, wherein the display comprises the user input device.

8. The checkout system of claim 7, wherein the display comprises is a touch panel display.

9. The checkout system of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more indicators in communication with the computing system, wherein the computing system is further configured to provide an alert via the one or more indicators when a transaction is successful or unsuccessful.

10. The checkout system of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more indicators in communication with the computing system, wherein the computing system is further configured to provide an alert via the one or more indicators when an error condition is detected.

11. A method, comprising:

detecting a radio frequency identification tag;

associating the detected radio frequency identification tag with an item;

displaying a scannable code that is associated with a purchase of the item; and

receiving an indication that the item has been charged to a valid user account from a server responsive to the scannable code being scanned by a mobile device associated with the user account, the mobile device being in communication with the server.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

displaying a request for a user authentication of the purchase of the item; and

communicating an authentication of the purchase to the server in response to receiving the user authentication.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

providing an alert via one or more indicators when a transaction is at least one of successful, unsuccessful, or erroneous.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

providing an alert via the one or more indicators when a suspected theft condition is detected.

15. A checkout system, comprising:

a radio frequency receiver configured to detect a radio frequency identification tag and a radio frequency identification badge;

a display;

an input device; and

associate the detected radio frequency identification tag with an item;

associate the detected radio frequency identification badge with a user account;

provide a user prompt via the display for a user to confirm a purchase of the item via the input device; and

receive a communication from the server indicating that the item has been charged to the user account responsive to confirmation of the purchase via the input device.

16. The checkout system of claim 15, wherein at least one of the display or the radio frequency receiver is coupled to or embedded within a fixture.

17. The checkout system of claim 16, wherein the fixture comprises a pedestal.

18. The checkout system of claim 15, wherein the display comprises the user input device.

19. The checkout system of claim 18, wherein the display comprises is a touch panel display.

20. The checkout system of claim 15, further comprising:

one or more indicators in communication with the computing system, wherein the computing system is further configured to provide an alert via the one or more indicators when a transaction is at least one of successful, unsuccessful, or erroneous.