Abstract:
A flexible video information storage and analysis apparatus stores a video information data base and a plurality of moving image content analysis algorithms for analyzing the video information in the data base. A user can manipulate a mouse to select one of the analysis algorithms. The selected algorithm is used to analyze video information in the data base. The apparatus records and displays plural streams of video information. Content analysis algorithms may be downloaded from a remote location. The apparatus takes appropriate actions in response to detected features in incoming video streams. Tile-based conditional-refresh video data compression is employed. A support structure efficiently supports several record-medium drive units. A tape back-up drive serves as an archiving mechanism for video data stored on hard disks. Recording of incoming video, and archiving and displaying of stored video, all proceed simultaneously.
Abstract:
A method and system for synchronizing the operation of a plurality of electronic article surveillance ("EAS") units that includes receiving a global positioning satellite reference signal, generating a synchronization master signal using the global positioning satellite reference signal and transmitting the master synchronization signal to the plurality of EAS units. The method and system can further include a secondary synchronization master, which is configurable to relay the master synchronization signal.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a video surveillance apparatus and method of operation for a system having at least one predefined setting. A first parameter corresponding to an alignment of a video camera assembly with a visual target is stored. A second parameter corresponding to the alignment of a modified video camera assembly with the visual target is obtained. A difference between the first and second parameters is determined. The difference is applied to at least one of the predefined settings.
Abstract:
A system, apparatus and method are described for an electronic article surveillance security tag having a magnetically releasable tack retaining system, and a magnetic detaching device for use with the electronic article surveillance tag. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
Abstract:
A portable, cordless hand-held device for locating an active electronic article surveillance (EAS) device, managing the activation/deactivation status of the EAS device and logging information relating to alarm events triggered by the EAS device. The device includes an EAS detector for detecting the presence of an EAS tag or label, a state manipulator for manipulating the activation/deactivation state of the detected active EAS label, at least one data capture device for capturing data related to the alarm event, and a memory for storage of the captured data.
Abstract:
A ringdown canceller is provided for electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag response processing, which uses two adaptive replica signals and compares the replica signal phase to the receive signal phase to determine if there is a stationary EAS tag in the interrogation or detection zone. The adaptive replica buffers allow the system to adjust to changing ambient conditions, and adjust rapidly to an EAS tag that suddenly appears in the detection zone and becomes stationary, or to a stationary EAS tag that suddenly leaves the detection zone. The ringdown response of the transmitter circuit is constant, just like a stationary tag, and is removed from the receive signal in the same manner as a stationary tag.
Abstract:
Methods of operation for data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader is equipped with EAS deactivation coils/modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto. System is operable to permit reading of the ID tag on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; (3) sense if EAS tag is deactivated. If EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals and next item is scanned. Also, it may be operable to urge the operator to return an item to the read volume to enhance EAS tag deactivation, one method being by delaying good read acknowledgment until determining that the EAS tag which may have been previously detected has subsequently been deactivated.
Abstract:
A theft deterrent device has a body portion and an attachment portion. The attachment portion has an upper jaw and a lower jaw. The upper jaw is spaced from the lower jaw so as to define a mouth in which a portion of an article can be inserted. A pin is movably mounted in the upper jaw, at least between a retracted position in which the pin does not substantially extend into the mouth, and an extended position in which the pin extends through the mouth and into the lower jaw. Releasable locking structure is provided to secure the pin in the extended position. The device can be used in combination with electronic article surveillance technology to secure articles against theft, with reduced damage to the articles and with reduced risk to persons handling the tags. A detachment device for use with a theft deterrent device is also disclosed.
Abstract:
A product tag system comprises: an RFID tag adapted for attachment to a product; a data store in the tag for bar code information relating to the product; a tag detacher (10) for removing the tag from the product at a point of sale; an RFID tag reader for retrieving the bar code information from the tag when the tag is placed in the tag detacher; and, a display (14) for presenting the bar code information in a form which can be scanned by a conventional bar code scanner, and/or in human readable form. A method for monitoring products comprise the steps of: attaching an RFID tag to a product; writing bar code information onto the tag; retrieving the bar code information from the tag at a point of sale; displaying the bar code information in a form which can be scanned by a conventional bar code scanner, and/or in human readable form; and, detaching the tag from the product.